Trainers from Germany

In order to apply for a Bosnian visa we needed to a couple documents translated from English to the Bosnian language by a certified translator.  We received those documents back on Tuesday.  Back in June we were given the name of this translator by a doctor in Banja Luca (a Bosnian city about 2 hours from Tuzla where we now live) as someone who might help us with housing and translating.  At first we didn't call her because we weren't sure if she was a contact for a project or what.  Finally we called here.  She was an answer to prayers.   Not only did she translate, stamp and certify our documents; she took us to the hospital to get our physicals that are also required as part of the visa process.  Believe us when we say that we would never have been able to do this on our own.  We had blood tests, urine tests, interviews with a psychiatrist and a psychologist and a another doctor who took our blood pressure.  None of these doctors spoke English and we definitely did not know enough Bosnian.   The bottom line is that we now almost everything we need to apply for our visas.  We just need one more document that has been "temporarily withheld".

We were also able to get a written bid from the repair shop on our car.  The information has now been sent to Germany and hopefully we will get the go ahead to begin the car repairs next week.  The repair shop tells us that they have the parts so maybe we will be able to get our car back by October.  We would love to see it in September, but we are learning that everything here takes at least 3 times as long.

On Thursday Elder and Sister Leonards came from Germany to give us training on the computer.  We now are officially trained.  We know how to fill out forms for projects and financial reporting.  Gary was familiar with the programs, but never had to use them; the finance department and secretaries took care of all of that.  We have had a great week being trained and visiting with the John and Susan Leonard.  They even convinced us that we should have a microwave for our apartment.  It is just a little one, but oh so handy to melt butter, heat water, or just warm something up.  You don't realize the conveniences you take for granted until you don't have them.  The Leonards had only been here hours when we realized that they are owners at Snowbird, We had an immediate bond.  The best part of the weekend was they taught Gary to take a "P" day.  Our first.

The Leonards spoke at our church meeting today.  A needed break as there are only the 4 of us here usually.  We had another one of the three brothers we have been trying to encourage to come to church.  The meeting was short but sweet.  We learned about listening to the spirit and nourishing our faith. 

Still working out the "kinks| of the accident but we have made a renewed commitment to "find joy in the journey".http://www.lds.org/liahona/2008/11/finding-joy-in-the-journey?lang=eng&query=joy+journey.

We want again thank you for your prayers in our behalf.  They are helping. We have received several emails of encouragement and they truly do brighten our day.  Again thank you, thank you, thank you.