I am grateful to have found a companion who fits me so well. There are a few things we each like that the other does not, sometimes we annoy each other, but we are committed to each other and to this crazy life we lead. We do our best to strengthen each other, support each other, build each other and give to each other. We took a picture in front of the doors of the Medieval Times, but we both looked bad, so forget the picture!
Last week was a significant week for transfers. We had 13 missionaries go home, and many of the Elders were leaders in the mission. The farewell fireside was packed with these powerful young men and a beautiful young sister who was also a leader. One of them was our first District Leader, another our first Zone Leader, another was the Assistant before we came to the office, and another was our Assistant who lived in the house with us. These young men and woman have left a permanent mark in our lives.
I watched as they have nourished other missionaries, helped them and guided them. Because of some of these missionaries, our Brazilian missionaries are doing great. 
One of my favorite books is "The Little Prince". In the book, he learns to tame a fox by being consistent. When the Little Prince then has to leave, the fox is sad. The Little Prince is confused because he does not understand why the fox would want the Little Prince to tame him if it was going to make him sad. The fox explains:
"Ah," said the fox, "I shall cry.""It is your own fault," said the little prince. "I never wished you any sort of harm; but you wanted me to tame you . . ."
"Yes, that is so," said the fox.
"But now you are going to cry!" said the little prince.
"Yes, that is so," said the fox.
"Then it has done you no good at all!"
"It has done me good," said the fox, "because of the color of the wheat fields." (Note: the fox explained that the Little Prince's hair reminded him of a field of wheat, and before wheat meant nothing to a fox, but now it meant something). . . .
And he went back to meet the fox.
"Goodbye," he said."Goodbye," said the fox. "And now here is my secret, a very simple secret: It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye."
It is so true. I may go watch a rodeo when I get home. I will probably go to a basketball game. I will laugh every time we have an avocado shake. What is invisible to others, means a great deal to me.
We got to go to lunch with Elder McArthur's parents. They were delightful, and great sports. We went to a restaurant we had not been to before, and there was nothing in the normal range on the menu. They both tried some of the Southern-style food. Mostly, it was great to be able to tell parents first-hand about how wonderful their missionary is. Thanks to all of you parents. These young missionaries are making a difference.These are only a few of them. I will always be grateful that I had the chance to learn and grow with them. These are terrific people. Their families should be proud.
Congratulations on 32 years! And thank you for helping these young missionaries to do the wonderful work they do! I recognize and miss the house where you are now. There are many wonderful memories that were made there. We love you!
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