WHERE WE ARE

The days are hurrying past, and if I don't put into words  we've seen and done, most will be forgotten – swallowed up by other days and experiences.

We spent most of last week with friends in the eastern side of the island. At least I THINK I have my directions right! On our way out from the city, we stopped at Yunque National Park and rainforest. Interesting and beautiful! I believe they get over 200 inches of rain in the year, and are both proud and very caring of the delicate eco-system.

We stayed with Dina this time. She's getting close to 90, but gets around pretty well – and was SO glad to have us. It does get hotter in the houses than outside, and one learns that you simply have to leave the room door open if you want air to circulate.....I'm learning, but I almost melted before I gave in. ha

We visited Nina, in her wheelchair, who just had the cataract removed from her 2^nd eye. She has diabetes and one leg is looking so bad that I can't help but feel concern. We had a little time with Ana, in her cheery room connected to the home of some of her family. We enjoyed lunch and a study with Yolanda one day. Meeting on Sunday, as well as the study meeting Thursday evening, is at David's house. He lives part-way up the mountain. I found out about the rest of the way up the mountain when Irene met us there with her 4-wheel drive and took Jeannette and I on up to top, where the road ended at the home where she and her brother, Ventura, grew up and still live. Oh, what a beautiful view from their porch! In many places the little road seemed to go almost straight up, and after it rained in the afternoon, we went through water running over the crossing. I could picture the impassibility of that road with snow and ice! That would never happen here, though.

Friday, we hurried back to the busy city and after refreshing at Hilda's house where our extra things stay, we went to Adam and Olga's house for supper. They have three boys, so it is a busy household. Saturday we went to help with some of the preparations to make a new place for the convention in December at Fitzgerald and Melody's house. I have a black-and-blue fingernail as evidence of my ability with the hammer.

Sunday, the friends from other parts of the island came for the union meeting. All brought lunch, and afterward we had the Gospel meeting early so all could stay. It was special to visit with everyone, and to have a couple from Canada on vacation with us – and also two visitors from the city. I was so pleased to look around the room – around 35 people – and know the name of each! I think we've been in each home except the couple on the far west (?) end of the island.

It is Monday now, and a new week....and I must add some pictures to this and wave good-bye. Thanks so much to those of you who've left a note or sent an e-mail.....or just thought of us.