We were enjoying an evening stroll in the cool  breeze in our Dorf of Friedingen with flowing conversation from Mark, Cherie and baby Grant.  Cherie had just  commented on how the Germans are not very friendly which adds to the challenge of our mission…. and wouldn’t you know it, just then a ninety-year old woman excitedly stopped us , making a fuss over 3 month old Grant and engaging us in a delightful conversation.  After a friendly visit she offered to give us some zucchini from her garden which she promptly plucked. So much for “unfriendly people living in Germany.”  A couple of weeks later I made zucchini bread (which is what every true Mormon does) and we set out to share some with our new found friend.  She lives with her son and wife.  Before we knew it they had invited us into their home.  We all  chatted and laughed learning about each other  She lives with her son and his wife in a large farm house at the corner of our street.  Our new ninety-year old friend was sooooooo excited as I presented her with pictures we had taken of our visit the week before.  After declining a drink of water, her SON WHIPS OUT A VERY  SPECIAL DRINK WITH 5 WINE GLASES SET BEFORE US.  HE POPPED THE CORK WHICH FLEW INTO THE OTHER ROOM.  Clint explained that we don't drink alcohol but the son insisted there was no alcohol while pouring us a glass.  We did a "toast” and then Clint sipped and I took a big gulp by accident.  We both looked at each other and we knew we were in trouble.  Clint bravely said he could taste alcohol and the man insisted there was only a tiny bit.  We stopped drinking and the man was forlorn.  I think this bottle had been saved for only special guests and he wanted to share it with us.  We told him it was because of our religion and he finally relented.  I felt so terrible that we had to reject his warm hospitality.  But we laughed and had a good visit.  We walked home a little tipsy turvy.  So if any of this story doesn’t make sense you will know that I am writing under the influence of alcohol for the first time in my life.  

This ninety-year-old lady stopped us and immediately connected to Cherie, Mark and baby Grant

She would not let go of Cherie's hand as if they had been friends forever.

She climbed through her garden picking us her best large zucchini.

Sister Gurney's first experience with "happy hour" - doesn't she just glow???

The best missionary in Germany.  No wonder the Prophet is lowering the age.  Who wouldn't stop and talk to this friendly Elder?

Mark and Cherie and three-month old Grant came for two weeks to share in our mission and see the most beautiful places in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

In case you think missionary work came to a halt while the Gurneys were here - think again - Mark is connecting with this less- active Brazilian convert who could communicate with Portugese speaking Elder Gurney - a returned missioanry from Capinas, Brazil - missions live on.

The Wiest family came to our home for dinner.  Cherie and Mark inspired us all with a lesson on prayer.  Prayers were offered by each of us - a spiritual experience never to be forgetten.  Bryan will turn twelve and be baptized on his birthday - September 14th.  Hoping dad will follow.

 

Eva Honz (center) has the gift of drawing the less actives to Church - especially when we are celebrating her birthday.  With Russian hymns and German Folk songs the six non-members had a great first exposure to the Churchand the less-actives felt comfortable being at Church again.