It is New Years Eve 2010 . . . and, Elder Ed’s 70th birthday, the first of two he will celebrate as a senior missionary in the West Indies. Elder and Sister Moon, Elder and Sister Montgomery and Elder and Sister Tamo'ua provided cookies, candy and a veggie tray . . . a complete and happy surprise to Elder Ed, who admitted to his class mates, "when I was on my first mission in Kentucky, I never could have imagined living 70 years!"
On Saturday - still celebrating on our first Preparation Day - we left the MTC to do laundry and run errands . . . then ended the day at dinner with Michael and Tara, Kelly and Gary, Whitney, my friend Jan Gardner, and my cousin Kathy Owen Beeder.
Speaking of senior missionaries, in a welcome letter our MTC President noted: "Of you, Elder and Sister Sappington, President Ezra Taft Benson has said, 'You are able to perform missionary service in ways our younger missionaries cannot. What an example and a blessing it is to a family's posterity when grandparents serve missions. Most senior missionaries who go are strengthened and revitalized by missionary service; many are sanctified and feel the joy of bringing others to the knowledge of the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ'."
Everyone seemed to enjoy our time together . . . at least until we went outside after dinner where it was freeeeeeezing!!! In fact, it was so cold, everyone ran for their cars, taking no time for hugs and kisses.Although Elder Ed complains of the cold and how it affects his "poor old body" he is enthused about the next 18 months when we will be serving the Lord in the tropical heat of the West Indies.
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