Catch up post: ASL Silent Dinner

Our ward, the Oviedo Ward, has become the ward for ASL (American Sign Language) members in our Stake (the Orlando Stake). The members who need sign language interpreting or who are able to sign for the members come to our ward from where ever they live.

Today, November 20, 2010, the ASL members organized a silent dinner. Silent because they are all signing one another; however, it was still noisy from all of us speaking attendees. Whoever attended was asked to provide potatoes and a dessert. I also volunteered to make a turkey, because they didn't have enough people to make them.

We had a great time eating delicious food and visiting with others. Brother Hurdich taught us some signs, particularly that go with Thanksgiving. It was neat to learn some signs! Unfortunately, I've forgotten them already. :(

Catch up post: Return to the Temple

On November 9, 2010 I was able to attend the LDS Temple in Orlando after not being able to go for SO LONG. I was so happy to go. The Relief Society has a temple day on the first Tuesday of every month, and I was able to get someone to watch Leiohu for me.

What's even more amazing about being able to attend the temple after so long? I got to do Initiatory rather than the regular Endowment session. I had not done that since my first time, many years ago. What an experience!

I'm grateful for the opportunity to attend the temple.

Catch up post: Gifts from the Heart

I have been really bad about blogging, but still want to document some things I did or my family did. This post is from November 4, 2010.

I went to the Relief Society meeting of the Oviedo Ward, and we got ideas for making Christmas gifts that were less expensive and/or could be done from home and the heart. It was a great activity. The sisters who shared ideas had so many great ones.

Here are some pictures.

Christmas Countdown--Just for Fun

Another free digital greeting card by Smilebox

Blow that Horn!

Nalani has entered the middle school realm and has joined the ranks as a band member. She chose the TROMBONE and loves it! I thought she was crazy to choose such a big instrument (especially since I'm partial to smaller instruments--the flute). However, when I heard her blow into various instruments at the band camp during the summer, I thought she could play anything. Now I don't mind the trombone because Nalani enjoys it so much and is progressing well.

Nalani participated in her second band concert on October 28, 2010 (the first was at the band camp during the summer). She was very excited, and although they're only beginning band players and are still limited as to what they can play, the concert was nice (and short--half an hour long).

Nalani is also teaching Leiohu to play brass instruments. She has taught Leiohu how to "buzz" her lips, and Leiohu can blow into the trombone! Amazing.