We were so focused on the New Year and our Christmas party last blog post that we left out a wonderful highlight from the last part of December. We are grandparents again!
The most difficult challenge we face is missing some of the most amazing things happening in our children's lives. This is our second baby birth, we've had two baptisms, multiple church primary programs, and a host of school and other events we've missed. But, hey, we have over 200 young people we now call our children whom we adore and thank the good Lord for every day. They are a great blessing in our lives.
Our oldest son, Jake and his lovely wife added a little princess to their home the last few days of December. With three young boys in the house, she will bring a whole new aspect to their home. Talia Lynn Turner was born December 28. Of course, we will most certainly show the pictures of all the family with the little angel. :)
Happy dad!
Happy youngest older brother, Mana!
Happy oldest brother, Vili.
Happy second brother, Tai.
The New Year started off right with a relaxing day. Many of the missionaries hiked to the top of a mountain to watch the sunrise on a new year, a great tradition here in Korea. With Roger being only 60% healthy from a recent illness, the Turners stayed at home.
That evening we welcomed the lone elder returning home at the end of his two years of service. He is the most accomplished pianist and he really made the mission home piano sing!
His father came to meet him to take him back to Jeju Island after a day at the temple. We will miss this young man. We will miss his missionary attitude and effort as well as his music.
The same evening of the day we let one elder go, we welcomed a new elder. You'll quickly notice the difference between the two elders using Terri as the measuring stick!
This elder is the tallest in the mission now, a rare height for a Korean. His trainer is a great young man that is only about an inch shorter. They will be an awesome pair walking the streets.
Rather than bring him from Incheon airport to the mission home on the far side of the mission, we had him meet his trainer in his first assigned area, Incheon! We had a nice dinner and visit. This young man was tired of his long day of travel. He had arisen at 3 AM to catch the shuttle from the MTC to the airport.
This was a quiet week, so we went to the mall. Outside a local cinema we met some friends our grandchildren and even our own sons would love to meet! They are almost as buff as our missionaries.
While walking through a subway on the way home we passed a familiar site. I think it is probably very familiar to most of you. It was the first time we'd seen this outside of the church or the internet.
This picture really lifted our spirits. We hope it does for you. We truly are trying to light the world!
Finally, at least once each year we try to get together with the stake presidents and the mission presidency and wives for a quiet dinner and evening together here at the mission home. We were able to have two of the three stake presidents and their wives as well as the two mission counselors. Terri fixed a wonderful meal and we had a delightful evening. Serving with these men and women is an amazing privilege and honor.
We didn't have time to send out a Christmas card, but please know that the holiday season passed quickly and wonderfully. To be able to celebrate the birth of the Savior here in Korea has been a great gift. How thankful we are for the knowledge of his wonderful Plan of Salvation. We are having the time of our lives. You can print this picture and place it on your refrigerator door if you like! We love and appreciate all of you.
