What a Delightful Weekend!

We left the MTC Friday afternoon (March 20th) and headed down to Ephraim to visit Kendra. We got there in time to meet and chat with one of her art instructors at Snow College, Brad Taggart. Bruce enjoyed comparing notes with him about jewelry making, sculpting, etc., but especially appreciated listening to his philosophy of education and student relationships. Brad shared some of Kendra's work with us and just pretty much sang her praises (but we already knew she's amazing...). Kendra showed us some of her other projects from her 3-D Design and photography classes, it was really fun to see what she's been up to.

We went to eat at the Main Street Diner in Ephraim where I enjoyed a yummy hamburger and the best banana cream pie I have ever had. Ever. Just wanted you to know, for the next time you're in Ephraim, Utah. And if you happen to be wearing a missionary name tag, they'll draw a big X on your bill and give you a free meal. Lovely!  We crashed at Kendra's apartment Friday night (it was the beginning of spring break, so her roommates were gone) and then Saturday morning had breakfast at Das Cafe in the little pioneer town of Spring City, Utah, eight miles or so from Ephraim. The cafe was charming, food was delicious -- this time we took three of Kendra's friends so we were a party of six and they cut the bill in half! Kendra said she was going to take us along whenever she eats out from now on! Across the street from the cafe is a museum, behind that is the old jail, and down the street a beautiful stone church, built in 1902. We were admiring the architecture and craftsmanship of the church when a woman pulled up in front and offered us a tour of the inside -- she had an appointment to show it to a home school group. Nice timing for us! We also visited a pottery shop -- Kendra had never met the potter but knew him by name, he does workshops at Snow College during the summer. He leaves the shop unlocked and if you want to buy something, you simply help yourself and leave your cash or check under the clipboard on the counter!

After exploring Spring City and returning Kendra's friends to Ephraim, we made our way north to Provo where we met up with Phyllis, Syndee and Moni, Aulia and Cooper at Chuck-A-Rama. More yummy food and -- you guessed it -- a missionary discount! Those nametags come in handy! We had a great visit with them, then stayed Saturday night at Phyllis' house and went to Church with her Sunday morning. She fed us lunch and then Bruce and I headed north back to the MTC, while Kendra headed south to Ephraim.

We're still procrastinating our final goodbye to Kendra, as she'll be in Blackfoot with Justin and his family this weekend, so we'll see her Saturday on our way to Rexburg. Sunday, when we leave Scott and Ashley, is going to be tough! But you're all coming to Japan sometime in the next 18 months, right? Right??