Floral Tapestry

Last Friday was a good day. We started out with a lunch at the mission home prepared and served by Pres. and Zuster Woodland. All of the senior couples from the mission were there. After the lunch we all got onto a tram and then the metro to ride to "Grand Place" or "Grote Markt" where there was this huge display of cut flowers arranged in a beautiful tapestry. It was about the size of a football field. It is only on display for 3 days and only every other year. We were lucky to be able to see it. There were tons of people and booths.

After viewing the tapestry we walked up this narrow street with little shops of all kinds. Some with lace, chocolates and tapestries. One of the lace places even give missionaries 10 % off. No I did not buy anything this time but I think I will probably give in before we leave here. About 3 blocks from the square the is the small statue or fountain of "mannetje pies" The little statue that I have heard my mother talk about for years. The story goes that there was a little boy and his family watching a parade when the boy had to go to the bathroom. Trouble was, no bathrooms around so he just went on the side of the street. They made a statue of that? Hello, guys have been doing that for as long as the garden of Eden. We have seen that in every country we have visited in the last 5 or 6 years except maybe the U.S. So Mom, I have seen it now!!!!

After leaving the square we went back to the metro where Pres. Woodland treated all of us to a Belgium Waffle. Yes it is everything and then some. They are made with a yeast dough with large chunks of sugar that turn into caramel while baking. They are served hot by themselves or with chocolate or strawberries and whipped cream on top. Not exactly weight watchers approved I'm sure.

Today was the second time we went to church in our ward. It was a lot less stressful for me at least. Ben had to teach Priesthood and I'm sure he did a great job. I wish I could have been there. We have a baptism next Sunday after church. The missionaries are having great success here in the area. I just hope we can keep them coming after they are baptized. The native Belgium members are not very accepting of the new converts. Looks like we have a lot of work ahead of us. Please help us pray that the members will soften their hearts and be for loving.