Christmas at Frankford Dec.28-Jan.4, 2014

   Well another Christmas came fast and left fast. I wondered at first if we could enjoy it without family, but it turned out to be very wonderful.  We have had a full month of blessings and small miracles! Our Christmas Tree story was a blessing that really touched our lives. The family that it happened to needed a miracle in their life, they have been pretty much to themselves since in all happened.  

   We had the missionaries over for Christmas Eve. We have learned to love these Elders so much! It still amazes us how 18 year old elders can be so sensitive and full of the gospel, the younger generation truly is coming up prepared to run the church!

   Christmas Day we enjoyed staying home. We skyped with the kids and got to share Christmas with each family.  That was wonderful!,  To our surprise, Fri. we got an early call telling us that Michael and Jen and kids were on there way to spend Sat. with us.  What a wonderful treat! They drove all day Fri. We played all day Sat. and they drove home all day today. They made it home safe. That was a big sacrifice for them but so very enjoyed and appreciated by us. At least we got 4 of the 17 grand kids, we'll always take what we can get.

   Karl has been the one conducting all month of Dec. in Sacrament meeting.  All week long he has said, "I need to prepare something I know the speakers won't show up."  His hunch was correct, that is how it works back here, it they don't feel like doing something they don't bother to tell anyone, just stay away.  

   We had been to the Messiah the Sun. before and had three people from Frankford sing in the choir.  Karl called on them to bear their testimony about the experience.  One Sister told how she couldn't imagine how it would ever come together with just one more practice, and she just cried telling the story. She had three solo parts and said she could literally feel angles helping her sing.  The performance was wonderful, I think she was right, they had many more helping them sing.  What a wonderful way to start off Christmas Week.

   I made 35 loaves of sweet bread to take to members of our small branch, it was rewarding to visit so many humble homes as we took the bread around.  We are all so blessed, even now I see how humble people have to live, I have been so abundantly blessed.

  We had the missionaries over for Christmas Eve for dinner, we played
games, sang songs and read the Christmas story, it was a lovely, spiritual evening.  

   We are anxious to start a new week and a new year.  It will be one year tomorrow that we went into the mission home. What a year it has been. I wouldn't trade it for anything! Our appreciation for the goodness of our Father in Heaven has been so abundant.  He is so aware of all His Children.  Especially all these that have it so hard back here.  We are so blessed to have been a part of their lives.  We are getting sad that the time is going so fast, we just have to make every minute count, some days count more than others. 

   We are having our Senior Couple Christmas Party at the Mission Home tomorrow night.  We have to take a $10.00 gift for a couple that they can share. I told Dad the thing we run out of the most is paper towels and toilet paper and that was what I wanted to give, he tabooed the idea so we ended up getting them some TIDE.  How fun is that to receive?  We've got to do the potatoes, another meal, when am I going to get ready for the wedding?

  We love all of you, I would like to hear some of your new year's resolutions.  I just add a  NEW year (2015) to the ones I made 10 years ago.  Like Dad told them today in his talk, if you can't get the entire Book of Mormon read, just read a verse or two a day.  With our age and the conditions back here, that isn't too bad of an idea.

                HAPPY NEW YEAR!  MAY WE ALL APPRECIATE OUR MANY BLESSINGS.  ALL OF YOU ARE SUCH A BLESSING TO US!

       PHILLY MISSIONARIES

   

Christmas in Philly

 Who said there isn’t miracles on Orthodox Street!  We are here in Philadelphia PA serving on a mission for our Church. We have been called to this special branch where there isn’t much leadership, money, Priesthood, enthusiasm or desire to really have a strong bunch of Saints, working hard together to learn and grow in the gospel.  It isn’t their fault, they have been living this way from one generation to another.  Who knew there was to be love and harmony in a home, most of these little kids don’t even know that there is supposed to be a father and mother living together to help raise and support and care for these children.  Christmas is coming, why does it matter to these children, most don’t know of Santa Claus because he has never been to their house.
   My story starts with a young boy who is eight years old.  He lives with his Grandmother who loves him so very much. In fact, that is why she keeps trying to live because of that little boy’s sake.  You see this little boy doesn’t have a mother or father that really cares about him.  If he gets something to eat or clothes on his back it is because this Grandmother cares what happens to this little boy.
   This little boy is named Raymir. He is kind of a shy little guy, and has a hard time looking at you when you talk to him. He stutters very badly, and is very self-conscientious. You see he has been abused since he was an infant, and doesn’t carry a lot of faith or trust in adults.  He feels extremely self- conscientious and sucks his thumb all the time for comfort.
   He is like all little guys that are eight.  He knows Christmas is coming... what would it be like if he had a Christmastree like many of the other children’s homes have?  As He is walking to his Grandmother’s house after school, he notices some branches of an old Christmas tree sticking out of a garbage can.  Of course this perks up his curiosity, could someone really be throwing away something so important as a Christmas tree at Christmas time?  He pulls it out of the garbage can and gathers all the fallen branches, it even has two sets of lights tangled around it.
   As he pulls it all together, his heart is starting to sing! Surely this could be his and Grandma’s Christmas tree, even if it was in the garbage can, then they (the owners) didn’t want it any more.  It would be his Charlie Brown Christmas Tree. He knew Grandma would let him keep it.  He drags the little tree down the sidewalk, pleased as punch with his new finding. To Raymir’s astonishment, when he plugs the lights into the socket, two strands of light beam to their full capacity and His Tree is becoming a magic Christmas Tree after all.
  This is where I come into the picture. Rosina (Raymir’s Grandma) calls me into the house to see the treasure Raymir has  found.  There in a heap upon the floor, is this pathetic looking little tree. Rosina is telling me this is their tree and Raymir is so happy that they get to have one.
 
   The wheels start to turn in my mind... I’m remembering my own children’s childhood where the tree in the downstairs family room was decorated as a CANDY TREE for the grandchildren to eat on during the Christmas season.  That’s what I’m going to do, make this a CANDY TREE for Raymir.  I piled the limbs in the trunk of our car and brought it in the house to start a remodeling job.  With some bends and pulls, some wire and string, this little thing started to take on a whole new meaning for a CHRISTMAS TREE FOR RAYMIR.  I don’t know who was more excited? Myself or the thoughts of Raymir having a tree.  We got candy canes, chocolate Santa’s and snowmen, bells, balls, suckers and rings, popcorn and all kinds of things.  On the top of the tree stands a picture of Jesus, He is the reason we are doing all of this.  To help make a smile come to this young boys face will make all the effort and time just erase.  To give a little cheer to this guy who has always had so little, will make Christmas for Elder and Sister Armstrong COME ALIVE.
   We have been wondering how we would get through this special time of year without being together with our family so dear. I know Heavenly Father sent me this project to help me realize that there are so many other SHEEP I can help and serve. The SPIRIT OF THE SAVIOR is our most special gift of all, and as we open gifts, sing Christmas Carols, let’s all feel that wonderful Spirit of our Savior, Jesus Christ who made it all possible.
   Love to you all.
The (Karl & Joyce) Armstrong’s

10 days and counting

Hi everybody,

   It's starting to get close,  and we are getting in the Christmas mood.  Sat. we had our branch Christmas party. We had about 40 there, which is wonderful for our branch. We did the Polar Express, had them all sit in the hallway lined up like seats on a train, served them hot chocolate, took them in the R.S.room and did a lot of singing time. (I was so surprised that not very many people knew a lot of Christmas songs), showed the new church sight on Christmas.  Some at the party even said they don't celebrate Christmas. Mainly because they don't have an extra dime to spare.  We then made our little chapel, rec room, into the diner of the train and served them Chicken Parmesan, salad, rolls and bread pudding (a must from Sister Burno) cookies and juice.  It was a success and everyone seemed to enjoy.  Some of the people asked if we had gifts for them. I guess that would have been nice but it didn't happen. The grandson of one member found a small, partially decorated tree that had been thrown away, and was so proud, he now had a Christmas tree. If we don' help, he won't get anything for Christmas.

   We are trying to reach out to some of the less fortunate, which pretty much covers the entire branch.  It's like feeding 5000 with two loaves of bread but then  we don't know how to increase that to 100 loaves. These little band aids we put on things doesn't go to far.

   Karl is in charge of the Christmas Sacrament Meeting. It goes for two hours, I don't know who made that rule up but Brother Storm says if Sister Burno says to do it we will.  We are using a lot of music from the 5 member choir.  Yesterday we had a practice after church and two missionaries showed up.  It will all be off the cuff.  Dad has written the script and has done a super job. We will hand out the parts as they come into church, since most won't show up if they have to speak.  A lot of these people don't read so we have to be careful. The primary is doing one song, and we have three other special numbers. Hope it will take up the two hours.

   We miss everyone, mainly because it is that time of year when we all want to be with our families. We pray for Harrison, his first Christmas away too but, he has the true Spirit and a wonderful attitude so he will do fine.  Do you know what time he will call?

   The very most important reason we celebrate is our dear Savior, let's have Him a bigger part of our lives this year.  A quote from Pres. Uchtdorf: This is the season of rejoicing!  A season of celebration!  A wonderful time when we acknowledge that out Almighty God sent His Only Begotten Son, Jesus Christ, to redeem the world!  To redeem us!

   It is the season of charitable acts of kindness and brotherly love.  It is the season of being more about our own lives and about the many blessings that are ours. It is a season of forgiving and being forgiving. 

  Perhaps most of all, let it be a season of seeking the Lamb of God, the King of Glory, the Everlasting Light of the World, the Great Hope of Mankind, the Savior and Redeemer of our soul.

   I promise that if we uncluttered our lives a little bit and in sincerity and humility seek the pure gentle Christ with all  our hearts, we will see Him, we will find Him, on Christmas and throughout the year.

   This would be the most wonderful thing we can do.  Let's have Him closer to us this year!  Thank you for your prayers and love! 

 Elder & Sister  Armstrong and all other titles!  

Big hugs and kisses to all!

December 1-8, 2014

   Another week- have I said that before?  They are going way to fast.  Today has been very cold, windy and wet. It rained all night long (I know because I was up). Today we have been out on three appointments and got stood up by all three of them!  Do you think people are too busy shopping or something???

   The same stuff as last week, there isn't a whole lot going on missionary wise.  We make appointments with the inactive members, but most of the time when we get there, they aren't there and don't even let us know. Even Alma, our sweet convert who has only been to church once since her baptism 4 months ago, was a little cold with us because she said she was so busy. She is always our ray of hope, and usually loves us no matter what. I guess the whole world feels stressed and pressure this time of the year! 

  It is our turn to conduct and get talks this month for Sunday,but even though we ask people, if they don't want to, they just don't show up and we have to try to figure out how to get through the meeting. It pays to always have a talk ready.   

   Dee has been quite stressful lately. She gets a bee in her bonnet and won't leave Karl alone until he satisfies her wants. She only has herself to think about. I feel sorry for her, but she sure likes to boss, and over the most stupid things.  She's got it in her head that we are all going to the temple site Monday night and sing Christmas songs in front of the temple and through the streets in downtown Philly. It is really cold and will probably rain so I can really see us hobbling along with Dee and her little push cart that  has  a sign on it saying, WATCH OUT, I'M BLIND AND HARD OF HEARING. Dad says it is "ME" that gets to walk with her and listen to her complain the whole time. Maybe we could find her a wheelchair, but I doubt she would use it.

   The weather has changed to cold. I'm getting out my long pants I wear under my skirt. It sure did help last winter. I bet we don't know anything compared to you "WALKERS".   Have you guys dug out yet?

   This coming week is pretty filled up. Sorry there wasn't much to report on this last week. We'll let you know if all the appointments follow through. We had the Christmas devotional broadcast at the Church. It was really nice, but only two missionaries showed up, so we went home early and watched in on our computer.

   Love to all of you.  Hope all of your weeks are filled and getting a lot accomplished.    

THE ARMSTRONG MISSIONARIES

Nov. 24-30, 2014

Hi Everyone,

   Another month has rushed by.  They are getting fewer and fewer, now we are worried we will soon have to go back to real life!  What an experience this has been. There is no way we could convey our emotions, only to describe this mission as totally different than anything we had ever expected, but so thankful we have had all these eye opening experiences.

   We had a lovely Thanksgiving with our 4 missionaries and sister Dee (our 84 year old half blind and deaf sister).  Dee ruled the entire time we were together. When it was time SHE was through, everyone had to conform to her wishes and go home right after dinner (even though we had games planned and songs that Elder Long was going to accompany on his guitar).  So we put the four elders in the back seat on top of each other, and Dee in the front, and went home. The missionaries seemed to enjoy themselves, however, and always appreciate a home cooked meal.  We had invited two other sisters, but both changed their mind the last minute. We took dinner into some others who couldn't get out, such as our bipolar, recovered drug addict convert who says he refuses to take out his body piercings, and quit his coffee and smoking.   

   At Sacrament meeting, Pres. Burno hadn't asked anyone to speak, so Elder Storm (our clerk assigned from another ward) volunteered his visiting family members to talk.  We ended up with speakers after all, wow!. Their daughter, two grand kids and son spoke, along with the Stake President who just happened to pop in, also spoke  on what He was thankful for.  Our meeting survived another week. I could see Dad starting to squirm, but pres. Burno was as calm as a baby. I guess he had faith that the Lord would provide, and sure enough, all worked out. What miracles come in this little branch!  

    After Church, we had pot luck dinner served from thanksgiving leftovers. Like always, more showed up for that than we had at Church, We had some interesting put-togethers, and it was like feeding the 5 thousand with 5 fishes, but everyone seemed to enjoy it. Then some inactive members (that we had never met) came for a baby shower that the relief society president had put together for an inactive sister. They had a few gifts, games, punch and cookies. We probably won't see them again for a long time, but I hope so. 

   Thank you so much for your support and love. You've all bent over backwards to help us feel included... many letters, phone calls, pictures and prayers. We feel so blessed. What would people do without wonderful family and friends?  We love you all so much and are so grateful for the kindness and love.  

     Have a wonderful week, stay well and warm! 

Elder & Sister Armstrong

Nov. 17-24, 2014

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

TO

WONDERFUL

FAMILY & FRIENDS

                                                                        

   We woke up to more rain this morning.  Today is supposed to be a little warmer with more coming in by tomorrow. We haven’t received any snow like the East, and hope the Walkers are OK.  I guess Utah has a little snow as well.

   Life is good on this mission front. We pulled off another week.  Jen and Ashley were here for 5 days! Oh how we enjoyed that beautiful little girl.  She is now 10 months old, walking, and loved all the steps to climb.  Dad had stomach flu before they got here, by Mon. I had it and by Tues. Jen and Ashley were sick.  What a way to spend time with family. The baby felt so rotten that she would sometimes let me rock her.  We sure appreciated their effort to come out but sure felt bad that everyone got the bug.  To top it all off, when Jen flew home Thurs. by Fri. her other three kids, that weren’t even out here with her, came down with it.  It was really a fast, contagious bug.  Anyway, thank you Jen for all the effort! We certainly fell in love with Ashley. We left them in Illinois when Ashley was only three days old.  She has really changed and grown!

   About all we did last week was try to get everyone back on top.  That flu came on fast and leaves you as weak as a new baby kitten.  Everyone is on top this week. We hope, the rest of you don't get it!  

      Anyway, Sister Berno (choir director) says we are singing every month no matter what. This was one of those times that it was no matter what!  How does the singing go with flu?

   Today we are having a Thanksgiving Dinner with the Senior Couples.  They are always at the mission home.  It is always so good to get together with the other seniors.  That is the only  time that we are together with them.  We have to do mashed potatoes, and had to do that last week for the Zone Conf.  We have a new way of doing them, you peel, cook till done then mash them with butter, sour cream, cream cheese and salt.  Put them in the crock pot on low for two hours.  They are delicious and you can even make them the day before then heat them when you need them.  This is how I will do them for Thanksgiving.  We have the four Elders, Dee, Sabrina and Jerel coming for dinner.  We may add more if someone doesn’t have a family to go to.  By the time we do potatoes for Thanksgiving we will have done 45 pounds of potatoes.

   Pres. Burno announced Sun. that next Sun. after church everyone bring their left overs from Thanksgiving and we’ll have pot luck!  I can hardly wait!  We’ll have to let you know what was there.

   Hope all of you enjoy your wonderful families and have a very good, spiritual, loving and happy Thanksgiving.  We certainly will be thinking of all of you.  It will be fun to have Taylor and Addison home this year, you will all notice the absence of Harrison.  I hope he knows we will all be thinking of him as we are thinking of all of you.  You are all in our thoughts and  prayers. We know you are all kinda healthy and doing very well in all your pursuits.  Keep up the good work and positive attitudes. I wonder what will be different in all our lives by Thanksgiving 2015.  Time has a way of getting away from all of us, that is why we need to live in appreciation for each moment.  May we all stay well and happy and get a lot accomplished before Dec. 25^th.

  GOOD LUCK TO EACH ONE OF YOU, MAY THE LORD BLESS YOU IN YOUR ENDEVORS!

                 ELDER & SISTER ARMSTRONG ( with all the accompanying titles)   

Nov. 4-18, 2014

Dear Family and Friends,

  The pass two weeks have been very different.  Our computer has been dejunked and took days to get back, then my wrist went out of service.  Jen and Ashley came back to see us and what a treat that has been getting to know this darling baby!

   We (3 Senior Couples), did Thanksgiving for the Zone. We served about 35 missionaries. What a super experience and they appreciated it so much.  We are doing another one Mon. for the Senior Missionaries. 

   We are planing on having Thanksgiving dinner here at the house. It will be the missionaries and whoever else that doesn't have a place to go.

   Last Sun. was our Primary Sacrament Meeting.  The Sun. before we had one Primary child. This was going to be the Sun. we put everything together and have a practice.  Josephine (Primary Pres.) and I, (that makes up the entire Presidency) got fliers, phone calls, email's, bribes, pleadings and parents making commitments.  We called another practice for Sat. and went and picked up 7 kids.  We got to the church and only one of them had done anything about their talks.  We sat each one of them down and made them find a scripture that went with their talk.  We went through the songs a few times and left thinking it will take a miracle to pull this off.  Sun. morning we get to church and there were two High Council speakers that had been assigned to talk at our branch.  I went up to the Branch Pres. and told him this program had to go on no matter what.  I don't know if he liked it or not, but no way were we going through another week like the last one.  

    Anyway, the Branch Pres. got up and announced the Primary would be doing the program.  Those darling seven little kids really came through. The Spirit was so strong in the room. The kids could feel it also so strong, and delivered their talks wonderfully. They sang so beautiful and everyone said it was the best, most spiritual program they had been too.  (This was the report from the Stake).  Thank goodness it all came off that day where we had the Stake there too.

   Our prayer had been  answered.  It turned out so wonderful with 7 little kids. Heavenly Father is so aware of these special little kids in this special non functioning branch.  What a testimony builder that was to me. It was truly through the help of our Savior that it even happened.  Guess what?  The Gospel is so very true, and Heavenly Father is so aware of all His Children.  That is just a sample of how miracles are happening all the time back here. 

   We love all your encouragement! When the kids send little notes it becomes the highlight of the day.  Thanks so much for all your support and prayers. We hope you can feel them in return because all of you are certainly in them constantly.  Everyone of you are so wonderful, we are the most blessed two people in the world.

   Our new convert that was baptized 3 weeks ago then told us he didn't want anything to do with us, well now he is back in the church, we'll see what happens by this Sun.

   Have a super week. Hope things will get back to more normal by another email.

               Love you all so much, Elder and Sister Armstrong

Oct. 27 - Nov.3, 2014

Dear Love Ones,

   Another week, how can they go this fast, seems like yesterday we were driving back here.

   The week was full of helping many in our branch that are so in need!  These wonderful people really grow on us. We question their decisions but they don’t seem to get the difference between being active and letting Heavenly Father help them than throwing up their hands and almost giving up or not caring what happens! We had about 25 out to Sac. Mtg last Sun. and the leadership made up at least half of that number. In priesthood mtg. there was one investigator, three from the branch presidency, the elders quorum pres. and 4 missionaries.

 We had a Super Duper Halloween Party, (anyway it was for our branch).  We have the church on a busy store front street and we had many, many people coming to the church to trick or treat. People in the branch started giving out the candy we had for the party and the missionaries said “why didn’t we think to have pass along cards to pass out”?

   We had six different games going in 6 different rooms. The kids had to play the game in order to get candy, of course many just wanted the candy, but we pretty well stuck to our guns.  We had decorated the church the night before and many came in costumes. After the games we showed a movie, Casper the Friendly Ghost! Then we served hot dogs, fruit, and hot chocolate before cleaning up. Dad missed it most of the party because he had rented a van at the airport to take everyone to the temple Sat. morning.

   We had 8 go to the temple in our van, 3 others went down with someone else.  It was a most wonderful day. We were so thankful we were in the temple once again! Surprised that we could remember all the words in both the Session and Initiatory. I felt like I was in Heaven, and we want to get back as workers as soon as we get back home. The DC temple is very beautiful. It has 6 endowment rooms and a huge Priesthood Room where our Stake met with the Stake Pres. and the Temple Pres., who both gave wonderful talks. By the time we got home, delivered people, and got the van delivered back to the rental place, it was about 9:30, but was well worth it. I didn’t realize how much I missed the temple until I sat there so thankful to be back inside!

   We are so grateful to be back here.  Both of us bore our testimony Sun. even though our congregation was pretty sparse.  We are really going to miss these people when we have to go.  They have become our dear friends. When you get to do so much for many of them they become part of the family. One minute we are wondering why they don’t get it, and the next minute we praise them for trying so hard. Under their circumstances they are all doing what they can and what they know. Heaven help all of them, wish we could do more!

   Please all stay healthy. My little Primary class has to write in their journal each Sun.  The lesson had been on praying to Heavenly Father and asking for help for themselves and loved ones. I tell them their writing is personal and no one needs to read it but, Akua, our little 8 year old insisted that she share hers with me, and said how she worries about her mom who has lupus and is sick all the time. She then asked that Heavenly Father to please protect her mom from Ebola because she didn’t know who she would live with if she died. I thought to myself how young she is to have that worry at such a tender age. 

   Well today, Tues, we spent the day taking Rosina to the Doctor and to vote, then Dee, our blind and hearing impaired 85 year old to the drug store, to vote, and to dunkin donuts for a treat. She got mad because we took her to the wrong donut store, but we told her that was too bad. We didn’t have time to chase all over town for the one she wanted to go to. That’s our life, taxi driver and support. Tonight we have Bible Study with the missionaries, and tomorrow we take Rosina to her doctor, then Richard, our bi-polar friend, somewhere else, and then, we hope to get some meetings with the Elder’s to teach the gospel, which has really slacked off!

Oct. 20-27, 2014

Greetings from Philadelphia. Everything is going good here. Today has been a banner day!!!!  We got Rosina this morning at 9:30 (it was supposed to be at 8:00, but she was still in the shower) and took her to get her government housing.  It was an all day process. But finally, she now has all the paper work done and just has to wait a month for it to be processed. We then get to take her out looking for housing, and, I’m sure, move her out of the house and help her find some furniture etc.  And then, start thanking Heavenly Father for all His help.
  When we got up this morning, our phone wasn’t working.  It wouldn’t charge and we had no idea how we were going to keep in contact with Rosina.  Anyway, she called us from her phone one time, and low and behold the phone worked. It was totally an answer to a prayer.  She forgot that her appointment for Government housing was a 10 am, and she called in a panic about 12. We went anyway, found out that some of her documents, such as Soc. Sec. payments had expired, and we had to rush to the Soc. Sec. office to get a new doc, and then, go back to the housing authority, and Yea, we got it done! All these little miracles that happen to help us assist these people!
   We have been planning a trip to Washington DC Temple. Elder Armstrong went out and rented a van so we could take 8 people, and since about 10 said they wanted to go, we will have to drive our car as well. (if we can find a driver) I will be surprised however if that many show up. Will write next week on how it all turned out. Since Joyce won’t drive here in the city, I am trying to figure out how to pick up the van at the airport and be back to pick up our members at the church by 6 AM. I don’t know how they will even get to the church unless someone goes to pick them up at their homes.
   Last Sun. we had a baptism, (Robert Richard Anele Jr).  He has had one tough life. He has been on drugs since he was 13, been an alcoholic, is bipolar, many, many health problems, hepatitis, etc. It is so wonderful to see how the Spirit takes over their lives.  He is so enthused about the gospel. He bore a wonderful testimony after the service and was so thankful for a new chance on life.  What a turnover he has made. He gets pretty depressed, so we pray the adversary won’t get to him when he is in one of his low moods. He wants us to help him move on Friday, and since he doesn’t drive. We will gain one more in our taxi service.
Our new friend Robert, who (who is also bipolar) is our best friend when he needs to go somewhere, but otherwise he doesn’t want anything to do with us or the church. He told the Stake Pres., who was visiting the other day, that he wants his records removed from the church and wants to denounce his USA citizenship because the VA won’t give him the benefits he wants.
 Our other friend, Maurice, who was in prison for six months and had the church pay all his bills, called, and his power has been shut off and his rent has been unpaid since he got out. He wants the church to bail him out again. (He has five kids from five different mothers, only one he was married to). The Stake President said, “no more”, and that he has to get a job. Anyway he came to church and offered to help clean a little and then came to the baptism. His kids are so rowdy in church.  Sister Armstrong about goes crazy.  Anyway I feel really bad to see them suffer, even though they only bring it on themselves.
 We are working hard on our Halloween Party.  The Primary is in charge of it which amounts to Josephine and myself. We’ve had a lot of people sign up to come. It should be a lot of fun if it goes as we’ve planned. I got a green long wig as my costume, (just fits in with what they wear everyday out here anyway) don’t know yet what hubby will be.  Hope we can get a decent turnout.
We had a family history fair on Saturday. Sister Armstrong and I went and were planning to take our new convert, Lynda DeSousa, who was called to be our family history consultant. She went to Delaware instead however, and doesn’t  know a thing about her new assignment. We then had a follow up at church the next day during the 3rd hour, presented by President Burno, our Branch President. Wish she would have been there to learn her calling. It is so hard to keep everyone active in our little branch.
   Karl went to Bible night just now, but I have had tooooooo much babysitting today, so I didn’t go.  I am working on a quilt that I promised a new member that I would make for her daughter in law who is expecting. (don’t think she is married to her son, but I opened my mouth about quilting and told her I would make one) It has been a hard job since everything is done by hand and my little sewing machine.
The missionaries do a wonderful job teaching, not only to investigators, the gospel principles class, but on bible study that is held on Tues. nights. We have been doing the New Testament, trying to get some people off the street, along with some members, to come and learn about the Bible. Can’t believe these missionaries know as much as they do at such a young age. They are great.  Our newest missionary was called on Sun. to give a talk, (they forgot again to get speakers, our 2nd councilor who has had a stroke forgets most of the time) any way, He talked for twenty minutes and gave a super talk. (our Branch President took up the rest of the time) You can really tell they live by the Spirit. He was so cute telling about his family. (He comes from a family of 10 and has a sister on a mission just next to us in Washington D.C.) He started to cry, he has only been out here 5 weeks.  It was pretty tender!
HAPPY HALLOWEEN
To all of you. Hope you have a fun night if you get involved, at least see your grand kids dressed up, wish we could. Send pictures if you get a chance!
   Love to all of you, keep up all the important things you are doing. It’s Fast Sunday this Sunday, I’m challenging all my 4 Primary kids to fast. I hope the fast helps each and everyone of us this week. We all have so much to be thankful for!
Love to all of you, Elder & Sister Armstrong

Oct. 14-23rd, 2014

       I’m sure our news is getting quite boring!  Nothing seems to change only the order we do things in.  This week has been another serve Rosina week.  Her ankles are bothering her again, so we went back to the foot Dr.  He is now sending her to an orthopedic Dr. He thinks she needs surgery.  Tomorrow will make or break her life. We are taking her back to the State Housing Dept. for one last try to get her in some other gov. housing.  She has till the 28th of this month to get all papers in.  This will be the fourth time we have made the attempt. Everything better be in order or I’m afraid she will be out of luck. We are praying real hard tonight.  I’m doing her washing tonight; so far I’m on the 6th load.  We feel so bad for her, but feeling bad doesn’t solve any problems.  We need some action from everybody tomorrow.
   It has rained all day today, it is a little colder but still there is that muggy feeling in the air.  We actually wore sweaters today while we were with the missionaries.  We had some good lessons today. We are trying to get Alma coming back to church and reading the Book of Mormon.  We brought her a Spanish version today and I’m sharing The Book of Mormon Made Easy with her. She has no excuses now only to come right out and say she is not interested. She is such a wonderful lady, she needs the gospel as much as the branch needs her!
   Tomorrow we are going to Modes again. (She is serving goat again) I’m so excited.  She is still on crutches or in her wheel chair; it has to be that way till the end of Dec.  She really had a bad break but she still has her same wonderful sense of humor.
   We have a seminar this Sat. on personal histories. I really feel guilty when I hear that word. Louise has been doing a lot on hers when she has a little break at the temple.  We are getting a group together to go to the temple Nov.1st. A lot want to go but we only have about 3 other members plus the Branch Pres.  that have recommends.  Nobody wants to help with gas so Pres. Burno thinks we will just open it up to those who can actually go in and do temple work.  I’m  so excited to get back there. We have only been over to the temple one time since we came on this mission.
    We love being with these two missionaries that are Zone Leaders here.  They are so positive, knowledgeable, and caring; they truly LOVE the people into the gospel.  We have transfers in another two weeks. I’m so afraid they will take them away. We hear that the one is being considered for assistant to the Pres.  Right now he needs his suit coat fixed, sure glad I brought back my machine. I have curtains to make for Karlene this week too!
   The FAMILY has been so busy. Sounds like Taylor’s Homecoming was wonderful. I can’t imagine Jill feeding 100 people after the meeting. Oh what you young people accomplish! When you turn 70 you slow down, of course the rest of you won’t, you all take after your dad, because he sure hasn’t slowed down.
    We miss all of you. We have to admit that especially the Grandma got a little teary Sun. when we weren’t at Taylor’s Homecoming.  We are definitely where we are supposed to be though!   There isn’t a day that we can’t help two or three people. My life will never be the same since being out here. I have been so spoiled and blessed, how come?  Keep loving  each other and helping each other. There is nothing more  important  than our FAMILIES, FRIENDS and the GOSPEL.  We all have all three, how we need to count our blessings.  Thanks for all the support you continue to give us.  We love and appreciate all of you. All of you are our example. We watch for e-mails knowing our missionary couples are just as busy and engaged in the Lord’s work.  All of you are so wonderful, the more we trust and serve the Lord the happier all of us will be.  Keep up the good work!
             Our LOVE and deep APPRECIATION,   Elder and Sister Armstrong

October 6-15, 2014

Hi Everybody,

   Our internet has been down again. We just got it serviced again and will see how long it lasts this time. 

   The past 10 days have been interesting; Rosina, Shaniqua, and Sister Horton have all dumped us.  They won’t pick up their phone when we call, and we go to Rosina’s house and all the men that are laying there watching TV say she is upstairs asleep.  I’m sure they will need us when they have to have a ride or some more food.  I don’t mean to sound like sour grapes but we are starting to find out how they play their games.  I doubt Pres. Burno is going to fall for it much longer.

   The man (Richard) we helped move into his apt. (up 3 flights of stairs with a large 

u-haul full of furniture etc.) has been calling Karl 5 or more times a day.  First he says he doesn’t have to go to church, he has heard all of it already.  He came to the building and asked Karl if he would take him to the store and he was busy with tithing and fast offerings right after church.  Anyway, this ticked him off and he texted back and said he hated the church and Karl and would never come again or didn’t want us to try to contact him.  A few hours later he texted back and said he was sorry and wanted us to be his friend.  This has been going on now for three days. First he won’t ever talk to us, then he love us.  When we got in touch with someone from his last place they said he was bipolar. We have so many here that are suffering.  Wish we knew how to help. This is when we need Kristine and her counseling degree to help us!

   Life stays interesting. Everyday there is someone in dire need. How do you help them when they don’t know how to help themselves?  Over 60% of the branch has so many mental challenges, all we can do is love them and try to help them out of many messes they get themselves into.

   We were out to the Mission Office two times last week and both times we got to watch the new movie that is out, “Meet the Mormons”.  It is done very well,  and if you get a chance to see it make sure you do.  It would be nice to take some in-actives or nonmembers to.  We are all so blessed to belong to a church that is right on top of all the technology. Every avenue they can take to bring the gospel to the world, how very grateful we all should be.  Sometimes I feel I’ve taken my wonderful heritage and privileges for granted.   With the sad things we have seen back here, we are very humbled and thankful for all the wonderful blessings we have been blessed with!

  We are getting more rain today but the humidity is right up there with the rain.  We still use our coolers and are very thankful for them. The vegetation back here is always so lush. When I think of Utah not having enough water it makes me wonder why it can’t be more equal. Heavenly Father knows and we have to trust in what he does.

   We send our LOVE to all of you, our eyes have been so opened back here, we all have so much.  Our material needs have been met all our lives.  Let’s all offer a prayer of gratitude today and tell Heavenly Father how thankful we are for our wonderful lives and the conditions we have always had.  May He continue to bless all of you.  We are most grateful for this experience and the way our eyes have been opened to our many, many blessings.  Each one of you are part of those blessings.  Keep doing well, stay healthy and be appreciative for all of our circumstances.

Got ahold of Rosina finally.  Her grandson has a free school pass to go roller-skating, but needed $4 for skate rental. Her friend didn’t have any money but she rounded up a couple of dollars from someone else and then got two from us. She then shouted “praise the Lord, and that the Lord provides”, and asked us if we would take him to the rink, several miles away, which, we did. I guess we will take her Friday to get birth certificates and ID for her brother so she can get some Gov. Housing before she gets thrown out again, and then, to get her dentures from the dentist before he says He is going to throw them away.

We go to New Jersey tomorrow to get food orders for three members, then (we made up with Richard, our bipolar),  we promised him we would take him to the store to get groceries. I hope he has some money or we will have to pay for it.

Sister Horton must still be hearing voices, since she won’t answer her phone. I left her a message to see if she wanted a blessing, but haven’t heard back. The voices tell her to jump off a building, or the like, and tells her not to come to church.

Elder Seeley asked us if we have been shot at yet, and we said no. He said that he had, and it hit his backpack, so he just kept running. The Elders have a potential baptism lined up, but since their contact is on probation, they need to get permission from the Mission President before they can baptize him. They also have a couple of others, so maybe we will get some more converts before too long!

Luzi, who has been baptized, needs to have it redone, since there is not record of it anywhere in the Church. We are finding a few of these. I guess no one bothered to have it recorded, so it has to be done over. One daughter of a member was baptized at age seven, and no one caught it, but since they are inactive, we are having a hard time getting it done again. Anyway the work goes on in the Frankford Branch. 

Love Ya All. 

Elder and Sister Armstrong.  

Sept. 28- Oct 5th, 2104

Hi Everyone,
   A report from Philly Pa. where the weather is a muggy 72 and our clothes are already sticking to our skin.  It looks wonderful outside but it gets pretty miserable after a while.  All the leaves are starting to turn, and the landscape out in the county is so beautiful!
   Last week was more of the same- helping Rosina. A gentleman moved into our branch area and they called Karl and I to go meet him on the road. Anyway when we got to him, he had a pretty good sized u hall truck full to the top.  We took a look at that and called the missionaries.  He was moving into an apt three floors up with no elevator. We got a brigade going and of course the missionaries got the stairs.  He wanted us to place each container in the area it was going, but with just 2 rooms, it was all pretty much taking up the entire two rooms.  I guess he got it, sight unseen, because he was pretty disappointed in it’s size.  We invited him to conference and he said “oh they will just tell me the same things they did last time and I already know that.”  Right then and there we realized he wouldn’t be much of an asset to our branch.
   We had the same duties with Rosina and Dee this week. You get them over one hurdle and four more pop up.  Rosina was to be out of her house on the 30th, Guess what, she is still there. The landlord raised her rent to $1000 and her SS check is $400.  I wonder what her next dream will be?
   Dad called 8 members to go to conference, said we would come and pick them up, but not a one was interested! We met at our little branch and had the Branch Presidency there, their wives, the RS Pres., Primary Pres., and four other members.  We had pot luck between the sessions.  We thought that would bring people out, but that didn’t help either!
   I made soup and rolls and as we went down the line of food, Dad asked if all I was having was soup?  The one I took of course!  He was a good sport and tried some of the most disgusting dishes I’ve ever seen.  And by the way, dad is still feeling good and didn’t sick.

       Conference was so wonderful, don’t you wish we could live and feel that close to the Spirit all the time.  We tried to make a few changes with our investigators, none were even willing to answer their phones.  We keep trying! We got these two Zion Missionaries to come to our branch to liven things up, they are trying hard but nothing is moving a lot right now.  Wish I had the determination and faith Elder Stubs has. He keeps saying the Lord is working on them, some of them will come around.
    I’m glad all the Utah family got together at Alisa’s, house.  It really thrills us when you all take time to be together.  Sounds like some of you are setting some new goals together.
   We are here thinking about Taylor! He will be home in about 5 hours.  Please give him a hug for both of us. Our thoughts and prayers will be with all of you.
   I went to the eye Dr. today. We called Sister Storm to get the name of her Dr.  She was very nice and said I  had something like sty’s on the outside of both eyes.  She now has me on steroids and antibiotics and she says it spreads very easily from one eye to the other. I guess that is what happened in my case.  I have to use ointment for the rest of my life.  I get really concerned about our eyes when I think of what Grandma when through. Glad I went in to catch it.  I have to go to an eyelid specialist next Tues.
   We are happy and well, but not quite as busy as two months ago. We are praying for something to soon get us super busy with new investigators.  I know all of you are so busy. Wish when we have a two hour break we could be helping all of you with your busy lives.   Keep up the good work.  It is so much easier on the mentality if we are super busy!
   No more news on Blake, we’ll tell you when we hear something.
 Love all of you!
(A few more pictures of our time with Bingham's and Kunze's)

Sept 16-28, 2014

Dear Loved Ones,
   First an apology for not writing last week. 1. Too lazy 2.  Had company 3. Caught the gom boo from the Missionaries. I had it last week and Karl is getting it today!
  We had a good time with the Bingham’s and the Kunze’s. They were with us for four days. (not with us in our house) but we were with them seeing some places we hadn’t seen.  It is always fun to see people from home. Didn’t remember we could laugh so much.  They loved our branch. The only problem was our converts that were baptized since we got here didn’t come to church.  We so wanted them to meet Rosina, and some that are just a work in the making!
  Alma is going to be a great-grandmother, so she wants me to make her a quilt for the new baby boy.  Of course I know that is in the outline of “SUPPORT”.  They are doing a nautical theme, so it has been a little more detailed.
  We got two new missionaries last week.  They are both Zone Leaders and are they ever on fire! Can’t wait to see what happens now.  Our little branch did need a good shot in the arm.  Elder Whitney goes home tomorrow so that will make three new elders for us.  I felt so bad yesterday. We always feed the Elders on Fast Sun. so they came up in church and asked if we were having dinner.  I had forgotten they put fast Sun. up a week because of conference so I had to say NO,  we had the company and were going with to help them with transportation because they had turned in their car.  Hope we can make it up to them this week!
  Rosina is still having troubles getting out of her house.  She has till the 30th. Only one more day to see if she can get in government housing. Sure hope we can all pull it off!  She has five grown men always living with her laying on the couth watching TV every time we go  over there.  Last week they couldn’t even carry in the groceries we brought her from the store house.  Have any ideas how we can get these people off the couch and help each other plus themselves?
   We are so excited to see conference this weekend.  It will be at the church and it starts two hours later.  Last Sat. we watched the Women’s conference at the church and had a pot luck before hand.  We had the branch presidency and their wives there, plus one more sister and her two kids.  I made soup, Sister Burno brought Sub Sandwiches and the 2nd, counselor in RS brought cake, it worked out good plus the missionaries came in to have some food too.  I thought it was wonderful how they tried to include all nationalities plus the younger girls, the church continues to amaze me.
  Ann Radclift, another member that was kicked out of her house, is now kicked out of the one she moved to with a girlfriend.  Nowhere to go, no money to pay for her storage. What a pickle they all get themselves into! It just goes on from month to month and person to person.
   We love our work, it makes us realize how very good we have had it all our lives. We have wonderful friends, family, relatives and the gospel so predominate in our lives.  Let’s all count our blessings!!!
    Enjoy conference! I love the attachment today about conference. I’m going to make several and take to our new people and our investigators, darling idea!
Love to all of you, our hearts and prayers are with each of  you individually!  Keep up all the good work you are doing in your various places and positions.  
    All our Love and Appreciation, Elder and Sister Armstrong

Sept. 8-15, 2014

Dear wonderful Family, Friends and fellow Missionaries,

  If every week was like this one, we should be able to convert all of Frankford!  Unfortunately life doesn’t always go like we are taught because we have to deal with real people and real life situations.

  Elder Wilford Andersen from the 70’s came out all day Fri. to hold a missionary conference.  He had us believing we could convert all of Philly! I think all the missionaries (both Elders and Sisters) knew it would happen!  Then we get back to our own area and face a lot of the same discouragements!

 Anyway, we were uplifted and certainly have recommitted and will try harder.  We all need a shot in the arm all the time, at least we will be believing we can for a while!

  He gave us 9 standards to live by daily, I’m copying them in my scriptures so I will remember them forever!

Daily Scripture Study
Complete Obedience
Daily Testifying of Savior and Joseph Smith
Use Time Wisely
Set Goals
Serve Others
Be Constantly Learning
Where ever You Are At, Make it Your Home
Always Carry An Attitude of LOVE

   These were wonderful instructions, if we just stay on top of it and do it everyday!  It is always a little easier said than done.  I certainly believe Elder Andersen and his dear wife live this way.  He talked all day long, everything uplifting and positive; everything he taught was backed up with scripture!  That is why He is a 70’s.  Isn’t it wonderful we have such wonderful examples in our lives and scriptures to pattern our lives after!

   This week we tried to get Rosina a little more on her feet.  We took her to get a free phone, papers to show her husband has deceased, her own ID, to the court house to apply for low housing and some bills paid!  Yesterday she calls, on her son’s phone, and says her phone won’t charge.  Everything seems to be going wrong for her; she has to be out of her house as of Sept. 17 and still nowhere to go, each day the landlord tasks extra on because she isn’t out yet. She needs her foot operated on, and can hardly walk, and today her back is completely gone, and needs to go to the emergency ward. Brother Burno says NO MORE CHURCH HELP!  What do people do in these kinds of situations?  This is why I count my blessings several times a day for the secure life I have, it has been good to see all this, at least I have more gratitude and empathy!  Some people really do suffer!

   We were wondering why none of our new members came to church today, and learned that one had a meltdown and got drunk, another one was involved when a jealous ex-husband tried to shoot his ex-wife’s boyfriend and shot and killed her instead. She was 8 months pregnant, and was the best friend of one of our other members.

This week was a lot cooler, 57 degrees when we woke up. It did get muggy though, because it rained quite a bit. We enjoy it more when the temp. is not so hot and sticky.  It sure makes it for better sleeping at nights.  In fact, it’s still clouded over today and looks a little like fall.

   Wish you could have driven by yesterday to see us out in our prison vests cleaning up an area in Frandford.  A picture is attached, we all are a pretty sight.  At least we had fun and had a lot yell out of their cars to (keep it up.)  If we did, we would be working till the Millennial Reign.

    We wish all of you success on your challenges. Just keep trying hard!  Some of the things we take upon ourselves are not as important as we may think.  Let’s all focus on what the Lord expects us to accomplish and what would make the most difference in our ETERNAL LIFE!

   LOVE EVERYONE, HANG IN THERE AND DO YOUR BEST!!!!!!  That is all that is asked of any of us!!!!!!

 Dad & Mom
Grandpa & Grandma
Friend
Neighbor
Brother and Sister in the Gospel

Sister Horton

Sept. 1-8, 2014

Hi everyone, greetings from Philly where it has been 97 or above all week, with the humidity about the same.  Life in our mission is almost the same every week, helping members, transporting people, helping the sick, which include our four Elders that are really sick right now.  Two of them have strep throat, we gave all of them dinner last night, they had a hard time eating, or I should say swallowing, and now today they are really down.  Hope we don’t get it, both of us have had a sore throat today, I think it is sympathy pains for the elders.
  We are still trying to help DEE out, she is getting more frail every day, today we were to take her to a dental Apt. but she just didn’t  feel like going, we went and got her groceries, thank goodness we got all the right things, it was much easier without her there.
  We were to take two of our missionaries to a new area, but with them all sick they are waiting a few days.  Maybe all of Frankford people will be down tomorrow.  Two other members we were going to go to today are down also.  What’s going on back here?  It is all this humidity that doesn’t let all the bugs leave.  (Of course you know we have a lot of bugs.)
  Missionary life is wonderful, especially when we are busy, with everyone sick it makes our days seem a lot less productive.  We hope to accomplish more tomorrow!  We are very happy here, love these sweet people, wish we could do more for them, how do you get them to realize to be a member of the church isn’t just baptism but, enduring to the end as you work, work, work to keep the kingdom growing.
Advice for ourselves, we’ll see if it helps:  Pres.  Hunter: “I command to you to study the revelations of God as the standard by which we must live our lives and by which we must measure every decision and every deed.  Accordingly, when you have worries and challenges, (OUR WHOLE BRANCH) face them by turning to the scriptures and the prophets and the Lord.”  We are going to try real hard this week to get more answers out of the scriptures, conference talks, prayer and to help these people do the same.

  The gospel is true, we love telling people that, you would have been proud of your Mom telling that to the JW’s this week.

   Bless all of you, keep up all your good work wherever and whatever you are doing!  Tell all  the members of your family how precious they are to you, and us, hang in there with all the tough things that challenge you, and we will all be blessed for not quitting!  You are all wonderful, we love and miss you!  

Elder & Sister Armstrong

Aug. 25th-31st 2014

What a thrill to see the family and the Clements on skype and Pictures.  You all look wonderful and happy!  Just think you are getting along just wonderfully without G&G!  Thanks for including us on all the fun.
The week was the same as before, mainly helping (Momma Rosa) as we call her and wonderful Dee!  Both of these sisters are very ill and very needy.  We (5 of us,) met to decide what would be best for Dee.  She doesn't want anything only her way. We arranged for her to get part time help, but she doesn't want it because she has all the help she needs.  (That is 5 of us in the branch working 2 or 3 times a week to take her places: Dr. Dentist, store, laundry etc.  Dad and I don't mind that much, it is that she really does need more full time help. She doesn't see it that way, besides Bro. Peoples told her she was getting that from all of us, and that we all have more to do that just her things.  She started crying, I felt so bad for her.  What are you going to do with Dad and I when we get that age.  The poor thing is blind and deaf.  I guess we will deal with it when it happens!  Just remember we stay in our home as long as we are reasonable- that may be even sooner than we think!
We did start teaching a new investigator today.  She is actually not in our district but said it was easier to get to our church than anywhere else.  She is 90% blind, but very independent. We'll see what happens with a couple of more visits.
Sun. was a super full day. I had to talk in Sacrament meeting, teach Primary, the singing, and the day before we had an activity at the park.   We went personally to each primary child's house on Fri. to invite them.  They weren't home, and no one back here will answer their phone, so Sat. we started to go around to the houses again.  We got "YES" from 5 families Sat. morning and got to the party at 2 pm with 2 kids and the Primary Pres's son.  That was with Dad and I picking up the two!  
You will not believe this!  We had 55 in Sacrament Meeting yesterday!  That is a first and we pray not a last!  Man our attendance doubled, wouldn't that be wonderful if it was that way every Sun.
  Here is a quote:  "Mary sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word.  But Martha was cumbered about much serving...And Jesus said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many thing:  But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her."  Luke 10:39-42
I ask myself all the time which part am I choosing?  I know all of you are trying so hard, let's keep trying and choose the very best we can!
Thanks for responding to last week's email.  We appreciate everyone’s comments and interest.  You are so helpful to us!  Thanks for your prayers and input!
    WE LOVE ALL OF YOU!  Philly Missionaries

Aug. 13 - 18, 2014

 It seems like we have a couple of days then it is Mon. again and time to catch up email.  Our lives don’t change that much week to week, but we’re still here and trying to help out.  Roszena is back in the picture this week. She has several appts.  Dr. and Lawyer, which she got to help her fight getting kicked out of her house. We will have to see who wins. She I pretty strong willed.  I would  hate to stand against her in a tug of war.
  Our Elder Readhead i transferred this week.  It will be interesting to see what elder comes. Frankford has been a little slow for new investigators the past three weeks. Maybe now that school is starting we will get more appointments.  Our first three baptisms haven’t been out to church for four weeks now. Today we are getting in touch with them and find out the real reason why.  It is so much easier to just sleep in and not have to account to anyone!!  I can’t wait to hear their excuses; maybe we will pass some on!
  We are starting a challenge next week to have the Book of Mormon read in a year. Most of our members don’t read, they want us to start reading with them. We’ll have to see if anyone of them follow through with this assignment.  Our LaMar is doing a little better each time he reads in Bible Study.  The saddest part is that they don’t care.  We challenge Ceria every time we are with her. She is 19 and plays Poke Man all day on her ipad. She still won’t pray at our meetings. I’ve ask her to come with me to Primary and help me teach the Valiant class. We can’t get motivated to participate in anything, but I have to give her credit... she comes every week and is now taking the initiative to walk to church and not have to be picked up.
A wonderful quote was given in Sacrament Meeting yesterday. I thought it was worth passing on and memorizing: “If you don’t stand for something you will fall for anything!”  Pretty profound.  It is our hope that we all have a purpose in life and are reaching for that purpose.  I know all of you are so good at making goals and working them off.  We are very proud of you, keep up the good work.
Congratulations in our family to Addison Davis, she returned from her successful mission in Rochester New York. We are proud of the wonderful job she did. We went to see her in action and were so happy with her wonderful testimony.  She now goes back to BYU, so lots of luck with that.  Morgan is starting school in Cedar City a CSU.  Good luck to you.  How did you grow up so fast? Christian Evans is starting school at UVU in Provo.  Boy our family is growing up, that makes us getting much older!
  Thanks to all of you for the love and support, your letter, calls and prayers are such a help, when we heard from Taylor a week ago, he said that the family had really got behind him with prayers, and how it made a difference in getting a whole family baptized.  Keep up the good work guys!
  We had a Senior Meeting last Mon. We all got trained on the new computer system going into the mission office.  Most of it was on ancestral files, but very informative. I can’t believe how the church is so 100% in everything they do. That is our main goal when we get home!
  All the Grand kids have started back in school. Good luck to all of you!  You are all good students and always give it your best. It sure will pay off when you grow up!
  We’ll sign off for this week. Hope there is more positive activity going on next week to report, no matter what: THE GOSPEL IS TRUE, WE LOVE IT HERE AND LOVE ALL OF YOU SO MUCH!
Elder & Sister Armstrong

August 6-13, 2014

We had a wonderful week this week!  It was enhanced by Rob, Laura & Brandon coming to Philadelphia. They arrived Thurs. night and left Sat. morning early to go pick up Addison who is now through with her mission.
We went down to inner city and showed Brandon the historical sights.  Independence Hall, where the constitution was signed, Liberty Bell, (through the window because the line was so long) Betsy Ross House, and the new temple sight.  We took a turn to go see the Rocky Balboa steps, but this got us in a traffic jam where we sat for over an hour trying to get back to the freeway.  The weather was cooperative and it was wonderful to be together!
 Laura and Rob are picking up Addison today.  Can't believe she has completed her mission. That 18 months went fast for us, just as our own time is flying,  We've already been here 7 months.
Things are a little slower right now in our part of the vineyard as far as new contacts go. We have been trying to spend more time working with the people that are newly baptized and keep them interested.  It is an ongoing process to keep everyone happy and focused.  They don't get that once you are baptized, you still have a lot of work to do.
Two of our members can't be found on church records, one is going to be re-baptized, and the other one we got in touch with the two missionaries that baptized her, and if you have two witnesses confirm the date, place and person they will accept that back in Salt Lake and they don't have to be re-baptized.  She was real happy about that. She is going through a lot right now because she is being evicted from her house on the 17th.
Every day we are here we become more aware of our blessing as members of the church. Our testimonies grow each day and our appreciation for our membership, our Savior, our heritage and our mission grows every day.  We see so much poverty, sickness and sorrow, why have we been blessed so very much?
Thank you for all the letters, support and information about home and family. We love and miss all of you, but we are so grateful to be here serving!  Have a wonderful week!

All our Love and appreciation,
Elder and Sister Armstrong

Independence Hall

With Brandon

Our Haitian lady (Maude)  broke her leg and her daughter had a new hair do, which you can't see very well. 

  Trying to  get our new members and inactive members interested in the Temple. Lamar, Elder Whitney, Jose, Elder Story, Elder Bott, Gertrude, Mom and I

Senior Missionary Couple activity.

July 28-Aug. 5th, 2014
  We just got our internet fixed and now it has been down again!  Maybe it is because we live in such an old house that the wiring just won’t take this new fang-dangled equipment!
  We are still happy missionaries, we still ask ourselves if we are doing anything back here but then our days surely fill up!
  The past week we have had four people evicted from their homes.  One just left her home and took all her personal items and went to New Jersey, walked out on her 18 year old Granddaughter she has raised, her daughter that Is going back to prison because of drugs, and said she has had enough!  (Kathleen)
  Person number 2,  (Ann) has had two month’s  notice that she would have to move and did nothing about it, so Fri. they kicked her out, she gathered all she owned and we moved it to a 5x5 storage unit.  You’ve never seen such a mess, she is very mentally ill, she is being accused of being on drugs, the landlady and her got in a terrible fight, with language I’ve never heard of, pray I don’t ever again.  She is staying with a girlfriend and has to be out of the storage unit in two weeks.  I imagine after the two weeks they will just open it up and put it up for auction!  My heart just aches for her, why do these people get into such pickles?
  Person number 3, (Rosina) our darling tooth lady that wants to live in our basement when our mission is over, we finally got the two missionaries that baptized her, both live in Utah and verified that they baptized her because there is no record of it back here.  We had to have two witnessed confirm it, so we were lucky that the Elders remembered her,(who could ever forget Rosina) so now the ward is bailing her out too. We just got a call (Rose #4) that her gas has been turned off today so we are going to deal with that!  
  Just 10 seconds ago (Rosina # 3) called and said they have raised her rent to 1,000, it was just yesterday that she was bailed out with her last two month’s rent so the problem wasn’t solved.  What is the rest of the day going to bring now?
  Sometimes I wish we were teaching more missionary lessons, not just solving problems for poor sisters.  Lynda (my visiting teaching sister) and I are going teaching this afternoon.  This will be real interesting, because (Tammy # 5 sister in trouble) says she is not coming back to church for a while).  Wish us good luck!
  We are excited that we will have a break this Fri. Laura and Rob will be here and we will see some positive people who actually love the gospel and have a home to go to when they get back from getting Addison.  We are excited about Addison coming home, she has been a wonderful   missionary and now Is heading back to the BYU.  Taylor comes home in Oct.
  All the family seems to be doing good, we are so grateful you are all so actively involved with life, doing well, helping mankind and well.  We all have so much to be thankful for;  especially that we all love one another and care what each other is doing!  Keep up the good work family!  Families are Forever and that includes all of us!  We love all of you so much!  Mom & Dad,  Grandpa & Grandma,  Neighbor, Friend,  Elder & Sister Armstrong