December 1, 2024

Thanksgiving in Takapuna

Turkey Trot:  Elder Farrell reminded us to “Run a race before feeding your face”.  He outlined our 5K walk/run at 7:00 AM.  A few of the young missionaries opted to ride bikes.

Some of these “youthful” competitors opted for the 4- or 5-mile routes instead.  Three of us (sisters) finished the 5K within steps of each other.  Winning a chocolate bar is a great incentive for exercise.

Dinnertime!!  We entered and viewed the appetizers and ice breaker games.

Sister Lewis and her husband serve as medical advisors/humanitarian missionaries.   Their labors take them all over Asia and the Pacific.  Their medical work in Cambodia is especially impressive.

The Italian Soda Bar proved to be a smash success.

Turkey with all the fixings.  The New Zealand flair to most dishes was a bonus.   Dear Sister Owen, from Australia, enjoyed the event more than anyone.  She walked around the entire room holding her piece of pumpkin pie and socializing.

Cindy Barton is new to OGC.  She uses a walker and manages very well.  Her legal skills focus on abuse cases – her area of expertise.

Once again, we enjoyed this marvelous group of senior missionaries.

We bid a tearful farewell to Elder and Sister Dayton.  We will miss this marvelous, energetic couple.  They previously served as mission leaders in Spain and share amazing musical skills with us.  He serves as the mission medical specialist and she does EVERYTHING very well.

We always enjoy each other at every social event.  My companion is the best ever. 

 

November 2024 – Takapuna Zone of Senior Missionaries

They’re here!!  Kitekite falls with Thomas, Melanie, MaryAnne and John.  We’re thrilled to have family members here to enjoy this beautiful country with us.

The black sands of Piha Beach add to the breathtaking view of this treasured site on the west shore.

They took advantage of the beautiful afternoon to play in the water, inhale the salty air, and walk on the black sand.

The starfish delighted our exploring search for life on the protruding rock island.  (Search carefully in the ‘white cloud’ to find the lovely creature.)

More to come as we explore different parts of New Zealand with our beloved children.

 

 

November 24, 2024

Halloween, Auckland Marathon, Primary

A few of our sweet Halloween visitors.  I missed a picture of our lovely Asian princesses in blond wigs.

Two lively groups of Trick or Treaters.  The boys offered to show us tricks – very entertaining.   Who knew a little candy could bring out the costumed soul.

 

Each Sunday morning, we cross the harbor bridge on our way to church.  Marathon day!!  The serious runners were finished, but we enjoyed the casual walkers as they approached the finish line.

Over 17,000 participated in the marathon, half-marathon, 10 K walk, and whatever else was available for the day.

Fried buttermilk chicken and waffle.  Local restaurants offer some interesting items.  “The Big Brekki” would include all your calories needed for one day.  They certainly score big points for the presentation of every dish.  Thankfully, there are many healthful options that taste delicious.

Avocado Smash (this is especially delicious with beetroot humus)

Pea and Halloumi fritters with mint yogurt and mango chutney.

A sneak preview of the Auckland Temple.  I especially like the Māori design near the bottom.  The Public Affairs Committee attended a meeting with the open house team.  There is still much to be done before the viewing begins in February.

Vanessa Sanini approached us in the LA airport.  She was headed to Australia for a family wedding.  She lives in Utah now, though her roots are in Tonga.  Vanessa served a mission in Long Beach, California.  She’s still researching her Italian name.  We enjoyed a delightful visit with this amazing young woman.

Our Primary children practice the sign language to the song, “Love One Another.”  Hazel Jackson, our amazing president, works diligently to help these children succeed in the Sacrament Meeting Program.

The families help when there are so few children.  They all dressed in white for the program and Hazel provided ties for the boys and headbands for the girls.  Their families also dressed to match the occasion.  

 

November 17, 2024

Funeral in the USA

Our family at the cemetery.  We enjoyed a quick trip home to honor Ramona’s life.  All our children came so this joyous reunion gave more reason to truly celebrate life together.

Ramona, standing near the piano she loved to play.

Pallbearers.  Konrad and Paul are among them.

Ramona’s Children, grandchildren and great grands.

Our ward choir sang in Stake Conference.  Brother Popolii opted for two of the new hymns.  He also made matching ties for all the men.  I love to sing with these powerful Polynesian voices.

Jessica, with the big smile, serves as the Primary pianist.  She’s a faithful YSA sister and so generous with her time and talents.

Tiana Ormond, a member of our ward, was on our USA bound airplane.  Little Drew didn’t love the ride.  She was headed to Virginia for her grandfather’s funeral.  Drew is one year old and a HUGE guy.  Tiana is a strong woman.

 Gina Truman’s nephews performed a special concert for the missionaries and YSA wards.  The Truman Brothers were outstanding.  They also perform with the Nashville Tribute band.  Their Christ-centered, uplifting music celebrates the message of the gospel.

We hosted a delightful luncheon to honor Gina Truman before her departure.  Several employees also attended.  Everyone loves Sister Truman.

The Spring blooms are delightful.

The spectacular spring colors fill every corner of the city.

Spring sunrise on Takapuna Beach.

 

November 10, 2024

Remembering Ramona

New Zealand Food Bank

Rick’s angel mother, Ramona Chamberlain Hafen, passed on November 3, 2024

Ramona and Arlo Hafen on their wedding day – September 6, 1949

Ramona with her seven children in 2019

Four generations together - April 2024

We treasure the Legacy of Ramona Chamberlain Hafen.

The family matriarch holds her newest great grandchild, Luca.         

 This beloved event occurred in April 2024

OGC members spend 5 days a week in legal offices.  Our service missionary, Sister Lily Sloan, arranged for a morning service project at the New Zealand Food Bank.

We met a new friend, Maria (center).  She comes from the Philippines and attends school while her husband and son remain at home.  She came searching for friends.  Wow, did she ever find them!  Irene immediately connected.  She’s met for church and wants to interact more often.  We find blessings around every corner.

The MacLennans – Kathy leads the way and gives the orders.  No one can out work her, so we just do as she asks, including her husband, Cameron.  We’re fortunate to have both in the legal office.

Kurt and Kathie Krieger, from Florida, are new to our office.  They make a great contribution.

Our marvelous leader, Paul Rytting, and his lovely wife Irene.

Rick and I enjoy every day we can spend together; at the food bank, in the office, or exploring New Zealand.

The entire crowd.  Sister Barton, sitting on her walker, wanted to join in the service.  Ruby and Sister Sloan found a way to make that happen.  Truly, this is a group of miracle makers.  We enjoyed a working day outside the office.