Mission Backup

 Yes, it's cold and rainy today, but you gotta have winter sometime in winter, right? Of course, "cold" is relative - it's 54 degrees Fahrenheit, "but it feels colder, because it's wet." haha. Anyway, to compensate, we're staying in all day. The DeWitts have moved into the nearby "Beitun" apartment, and they joined us for Sacrament meeting today. Last week, we traveled (by bike, over Sister Wells' protests) to the Xinyin sister's apartment to serve the sacrament to them. It was kinda far, about 30 minutes, but it was a lovely day, and I like nothing better than cycling through the city streets, admiring the many sights along the way. We just heard that next week we can begin meeting in person at the chapel again! Regrettably, I failed to get photos of either get-together. Sorry! We've taught our Junior Primary class these two weeks by preparing a 15 minute Zoom recording so the children can watch it anytime (and repeatedly, if d...

 The past two weeks have been just about typical for us, with long, tiring days, and some fun thrown in. Chinese New Years lasts two weeks, so we've been doing lots of celebrating and well-wishing lately. Last year, we enjoyed many meals together with members and missionaries, but the last few weeks have been a time of increased Covid fear, and our Church leaders have placed restrictions on missionaries which precluded visits to members homes, or regular Church meetings. We were sad to have to refuse the many kind offers we received. We were allowed to eat in restaurants, though, and we enjoyed a hot pot meal at Bulu Bulu with a couple from our Wuquan 3rd Ward! Interestingly, we have had an egg shortage in Taiwan recently, so we've had to buy eggs as we can. The last batch (10, not 12, here), included some mismatched sizes. Because we're not meeting in our churches, the missionary Elders are once again providing sacrament services to the Sister missionaries. Our neighbors, ...

 Today is Chinese New Years Day! It's the biggest holiday of the year, and most stores are closed and people are spending time with family, paying tribute to their ancestors, relaxing, and EATING! Gift giving is common, and this is the time for Hong Bao Na Lai! Here's our little hong bao we had printed up and are giving to friends and associates this year: With heightened concern in Taiwan over the Covid pandemic, and in an over-abundance of caution, the Asia Area Presidency asked that we not meet in member homes over the new year holiday. So, the wonderful moments sharing meals and love with our Wuquan 3rd warders last year will not be repeated this year. At least we had the opportunity to experience the joy of Chinese New Years in 2021. Riding to work has been unusually quiet (and safe!) the last couple of days. But, even this afternoon, it seems things are returning to normal, traffic-wise. Our dear friend and fellow senior missionary, Elder Lin gifted all the seniors hand-m...