So! Here we are in Kirtland Ohio, living snugly in the cutest house to be had in these parts. As you see, it crowns a steep hill just below the Temple, and is thus called, "The Mansion" or "The Castle". By senior missionary standards, it is indeed a mansion, as most live humbly, in more cramped, one or two bedroom houses or apartments. We are feeling most blessed, and even a bit privileged, if not down right guilty, and no, we don't deserve it any more than any other missionaries, but, as victims of the system, we do as we are tole, realizing that someone has to do it, so we are determined to squeeze all the joy out of our elevated situation we can, while just being very grateful. We are, however, reminded that where much is given, much is expected!
In this cozy little bungalo, we can hope to be content to spend the remaining years of our mission, but only if you drop by to see us. Unfortunately, Elder Orton has been kept very busy shoveling the walk and driveway leading up to the house. FM does plow and salt it, but sometimes, they are so swamped, they can't get to it before we must leave. The driveway leads right out onto a very busy street (Chillocothe Road), the last few feet being very steep and slick when icy. We can't quite put our finger on it, but for whatever reason, it sure reminds us of home in Ogden.
We are happily expecting company this coming spring and summer, and our new home will be a convenient place to entertain, much closer and convenient than Garrettsville. Just three short minutes from work, a washer and dryer of our own, a kitchen nook with a view, and a basement and sleeping porch for overflow, if needed. We have quickly made ourselves at home, and plan to enjoy our stay in Kirtland, even though it was tearfully difficult to leave our friends and situation in Garrettsville, especially our dear apartment people. We had learned to love them all.
This is our first week on the job, and we've been learning, but probably not fast enough, as we will be expected to do our own tour by next week. Yikes! So, we continue to study and learn as fast as atrophied, leather-like brains can catch and absorb frayed bits of information. How blessed we feel to serve a mission! How we marvel at the heavenly flood of love showered upon these early, Kirtland Saints, as the Lord condescended to appear in His glory, with his Father, so many times, as He poured down the knowledge of heaven upon the heads of these, His Saints! What a rich and gloriously divine heritage we have been left by these, our spiritual ancestors of Kirtland. We are so grateful for the honor we enjoy, as we serve in the midst of the memory of such sacred scenes! Over and over, our testimonies are confirmed! All this and the gospel too!!
