From Chalco, Mexico
1. Now it
came to pass as the year 2013 came to an end, there was much rejoicing and
gladness. The Bird’s decorated their Christmas tree in memory of their much family. An ornament was created for each family member with names inscribed on either side of each to represent those beloved children and 34 grandchildren. Two special stockings were chosen from the feet of the two missionaries and were filled with chocolate kisses and peanuts.
2. On the
day celebrating the birth of the Savior, the Bird’s invited the office Elders
and the AP’s to a grand feast. The “cena” tradition, which started 45 years ago
in another mission long ago and far away, continued, which consisted of
homemade tamales, chicken enchiladas, taquitos, beef tacos, nachos, pudding and
a special family recipe of sangria. The Elders were filled with Christmas
cheer. We played Rummy Kube, the favorite of Hna. Bird, and Phase 10.
3. The
many Stakes and Wards celebrated with as many as 5 piñatas each and endless
platters of Mexican favorites – which the Bird’s, as honored guests, received
much food to take home.
4. Yea,
the “gente” did come to the streets at this time with much celebrating.
Exceedingly loud fireworks, consisting of bright bursts of light and loud
booms, were heard for many days and nights, even weeks, until the year ended.
In their many houses they did celebrate with decorations of blinking lights and
much music (consisting of singing into microphones and playing many
instruments) from evening until the wee hours of the morning.
5. But it
came to pass that the Chalco Mission met for a great Christmas Conference, with
skits and games, white elephant gifts and food; and many cookies created by
Hna. Bird and Hna. Crickmore. But they also joined together with the singing of
Christmas Hymns and sharing of mission experiences. The Spirit and vision to
share the good news did speak peace to our souls and we did go forth with all
our might that we would share the love of the Lord with all people.
6. And
behold, the Birds did go forth with plates of cookies for all the neighbors in
their apartment and for many of the missionaries who were downcast without the
home cooking of their dear mothers.
7. Now,
because of the laws of the land, the Birds made haste to the office of Visas,
which trip took 8 hours. But behold, during their waiting, they talked with
people about the gospel and shared pass-along cards. There were even two nuns
who listened, but could not accept an invitation to receive more.
8. There
is in the city of Chalco a Panadaria, which once you visit; you find you must
return again and again. Not only do you find breads of many kinds, but shelves
of pastries and real, really big donuts. The Birds obtained such donuts and put
a large emergency candle in one of them for the celebration of Elder Bird’s
very important 65th birthday.
9. And it
came to pass that the time of cutting Elder Bird’s hair arrived. Entering one
of the many barber shops complete with painted barber poles, for $45 pesos (or
about $3.50) his hair was not only shortened, but he emerged with beautiful
white hair, on which the sun shone brightly, and confirmed his coming of “age.”
10. Now
because of the many dangers which come to pass when many people unite in
sometimes unruly ways, all the missionaries in the Chalco Mission were
commanded to remain in their several abodes on Christmas Eve and day; and also
remained in their homes New Years Eve and day. The exception was that the Birds
were given permission on Christmas with the Elders and on New Years day to
invite 4 of the Sister missionaries to feast on pizza, pop corn, ice cream and
homemade cookies, etc. And behold, we also played Rummy Kube and Farkle. You
should try it with your friends and families! Nevertheless, two days later, one
of said sisters, fell and sprained her ankle and must now stay down for 10
days. This causes much grief because said
sister will go forth to her home and family on January 20, nevertheless with
honor for 18 months of faithful service.
11. Now
it came to pass during the great holiday season, all the missionaries united,
each in their own city and town squares to share caroling and candy canes and
suckers with all who would listen, or even those who chose to only pass by.
There were many references obtained in all corners of the mission and new
labors to perform.
12. And
now, one of the more curious experiences, which actually exist in many lands,
is that of tying shoes together and tossing them upon telephone wires. The
dangerous thing is that many of the wires are “live” and are to be feared. Why
would anyone want to part with their shoes, especially in Mexico where there
are many who are in need?
13. And
now as we attended to our dry cleaning needs, we came upon a lady who looked
upon our name tags and asked if we were Mormon. Of course with the gift of
tongues, I discovered that her deceased husband was Mormon, and yet she does
not have a Book of Mormon in her dwelling place. She sees the missionaries pass
her home on their way to church, but hasn’t had the pleasure of a visit with
them yet. As a true missionary, I took her information, which here in Mexico is
pretty vague. (Few people have addresses on their houses.) We are anxiously
waiting for a reply from the missionaries in that area.
14. And
it came to pass that I had nothing to fear regarding the beautiful mountains at
home. There are enough high hills here that I feel comfortable. We have
actually driven roads that are equal to the curvy mountain roads at home and
the pine and many other trees and bushes and rocks are beautiful to look upon.
There are two very active wards in Monte Corona, which are tucked away in these
mountain retreats and one can see why they choose to live so far away.
15. And
in these days, Elder Bird has become quite involved with the missionary
referral program. The Lord truly is directing the final scenes of this great
production. We must be a part of it, or be left behind. It has been determined
that there must be lessons given to 12 different people to receive one person
into the waters of baptism. There is much to be done by everyone. Remember the
M & M’s – Members and Missionaries working together.
16. And
it came to pass that our mighty family continues to grow in spite of our
absence. We start off the new year with our little Chad turning 5 and Sarah
becoming a 12 year old young woman and Joshua at 14 old enough to become a
Teacher and Sammy a beautiful 15 year old. We love and miss all our choice children.
I still miss my Primary children too!
17. And
after much trial and tribulation, young Master David has received his Masters
degree in Library Science! Now he must continue reading to his three wee ones,
with the oldest just turning two and twin daughters 5 months old.
18. We
greet you with love and fondness and pray the Lord send you peace and comfort,
health and joy as this New Year begins. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be
with you all.
Elder and Sister Bird
Please share our message of love and greetings
with others.
Associated Pictures:
1. Mexico City Temple at Christmas time
2. Pemex is the only gas company in Mexico; OXXO
is 7-11
3. Does anyone know where Miss Piggy is?
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