We taught seminary in Bismarck Tuesday and Wednesday after the teacher left for the week and the substitute got sick. Wednesday was the Zone meeting, then the 2 hr drive to Minot and Institute there that night. Thursday morning we attended seminary in Minot, then drove to Williston (all these are 2 hrs apart). Friday morning it was seminary in Williston, then we drove 3 hours to a small town to see a HS play that one of our on-line students was in. He was very happy that we went to see him. On the 3 hr trip back to Williston, we drove through a town where we have other on-line students, and decided to see if one was practicing baseball. We're kind of hanging on to him by the fingernails. He doesn't do the on-line lessons very often (he's very involved in sports and doesn't have much parental encouragement), but he joins us for the calls once a week. We found the baseball field, and the team was having their first game. We decided to stay for some of the game, and Dad went back to the car to get a blanket. On the way he passed cars watching the game from a higher field, and Lucas's parents were in the car watching. They invited us into the car with them (must warmer - thanks!) and we had a good chance to talk to them, plus watch the team play. We felt it was a miracle to connect with all of them. The Lord blesses us EVERY day.
Today was the youth activity, and about 40 of the youth from the stake gathered in the furthest corner of the stake. They hold these activities in the different areas, so the travel distance is eventually equal for all. We love being with these kids, because we know them so well now. It was very successful, and the kids seemed to have a great time. One of their games was dividing into 6 teams, putting volunteers in 6 chairs, and giving the kids peanut butter and colored goldfish so they could decorate the faces of the volunteer. (yes, peanut butter on the face, with goldfish stuck to it in places) So creative of the kids - and of course, such a mess for those getting their faces "done." We had Hulk (all green), The Joker (from Batman movies), Hitler (two brown goldfish for his mustache, and some eyebrows), and Elvis (sideburns, glasses, and wild hair--the volunteer was bald on top). Steve and I had to judge the best. Maybe we'll put on a picture so you can see what we mean.
We're home late tonight (drive from Williston to Home about 4 hours) - starting to work on the primary lesson and other assignments for Sunday. Next weekend we're taking 15 YSA from both Bismarck and Minot and other places in the stake to Sioux Falls SD for a YSA adult conference. We're trying to finalize who's riding in the 15 person van and who's driving themselves or others.
Most of the snow is melted, but not much green grass showing yet. Maybe another week. Highs in the 50s, early morning lows still below freezing. Turtle neck or not?, trench coat, short wool coat, or long coat?.... the daily decisions.
That's the news from North Dakota - life in the Vast lane.
Elder and Sister Harris
