Ward Conference

Call it Serendipity, coincidental, or perhaps God knew and had planned things just the way He did, but we had Ward Conference on August 10th, 2014 where Bishop Rowe got released as bishop of the Kalgoorlie Ward.  Cory being bishop was the only thing left keeping us in Kalgoorlie at that point since he no longer had a job.  So I just found it extremely amazing that the timing worked out so perfectly that Cory could be released and then two days later we were on a plane flying home.

It was bittersweet to end our time serving the good people of Kalgoorlie.  I am certainly very grateful for the opportunity we had to serve and give of our time and ourselves.  I'm with President Hinckley when he said what appears to be a sacrifice today will prove to be your greatest investment.  When you chose to serve, the blessings you get in return far exceed any sacrifice you think you're making.  I am just so extremely grateful for that life changing experience.

When Cory was released and the mantle shifted to the new Bishop Scott, I couldn't believe what a physical thing it was.  I could physically feel the weight of that calling leave me, and if I felt that then I'm sure Cory felt it even more!!  So this Ward Conference was much more relaxing and enjoyable than the one when Cory got called as Bishop!  It was bittersweet, however.  So sad to go so soon!!!!

Bishop Cory Rowe at his desk for the last time.  He was already released and cleaning it out.  He looks quite happy, doesn't he?

 Bishop Rowe and our favorite little sweetheart, Mark Burton.

 We had a potluck lunch after church.  Always a good feed at the Kalgoorlie chapel.  Gotta love the kiwi Coconut Sweet Rolls!  I was told that those are how they get their thighs!  ;)

 Ava enjoying her muffin.

 Bishop Rowe and Sister Maisy

 The Thompson family.  Ben, Jess and Kialie.

 And Grandma Marilynn and Azalia.

 Bro Seala and Corrine Taurima, love her!!

 Beautiful Heidi Prall and Chloe Tomlinson, and Allison Sateki.

 Oh, Nadine and Julia!!!

When I saw this picture with the Prall's, it instantly brought tears to my eyes.  I will always love them for their kindness and generosity.  Karen and Karl, we love you!!!

 And of course, good old President Masson, the stake pres.  We love him too.  A very nice man who serves the church well in Australia.  He was Bishop Rowe's mentor and example and we could feel that he had a genuine love for Cory and our family.  So glad to have met him and gotten to know him so well.

 Leonie and Asher, Luisa and Hannah and me and Sofie.  Just a few of the new babies born in Kalgoorlie that year!

Kalgoorlie Ward, we love you!!!!  Thank you for letting us serve you and thank you for all of your love in return!!!!