Kevan Kingsley Clawson's Blog, page 7

Morning walks

Here are some pics from my morning walks and P-day events.

The missionaries took a hike up to the tallest point on the island this morning, then came to do some emailing at our house.  Elder Moux, Whipple, Smith, and Sabin, with Sister RindlesbacherSister Provsgaard laughing at some inside joke

Here are some pics of a walk I took close to our apartment

 These are pics from near the causeway

 

Its hard to see, but there are two stingrays swimming in the bay

There is a new restaurant and office space being built. I talked to the owner and they are getting a lot of negative response from their neighbors due to the construction material being used… Perhaps after it is all painted it will look better?

 

Pineapple Pete is the name of a restaurant on the island. We have been a few times. They have great food and make a killer pineapple cheese cake!

This is the new Jewish synagogue going up just at the bottom of our street

We thought these barges were parked on this sandy out-cropping because they were going to make a new pier for boats. But I think they are just parked, and making some repairs to their equipment.

There are some small, independent docks scattered around the bay for smaller boats.

Yet another wayward boat met its end…perhaps during the last hurricane.

That’s all folks!

Island Visitors

Last Sunday we had some welcome visitors that spoke in Sacrament meeting:

Brother and Sister Thompson came back to St Martin for a visit! They were the Senior Missionaries here before Terri and I came. Brother Thompson acted as the Branch President during his mission, and before they called Pres Huggins. I had been forewarned that I might be called as a Branch President while on this mission… I was so grateful, and relieved, to discover that they had called Pres Huggins! Besides, it became quite clear early on that Pres Huggins was doing a much better job than I ever could!

Sister Thompson speaking at the St Martin Branch

Brother Thompson speaking

We also had Sister Provsgaard speak at the same meeting!

Sister Provsgaard not only spoke, but lead the music also! She is a multi-talented young women and a great missionary!

This week during District Meeting a few of the missionaries did some role-playing about the Book of Mormon: how does one explain exactly what the Book of Mormon is?

Elders Stevens, Smith, and Johnson role-playing

Happy 40th !

On Sunday Terri and I celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary (well, we celebrated on Saturday, but the date was Sunday, April 24th). Some of our children have asked about how we got to know each other, and how we have been able to create a loving relationship that has lasted for 40 years and counting. So, here we go:

Terri and I first met on my mission to Pennsylvania. Terri’s parents often had the Elders over to dinner, and during those visits I met Terri (Terri was going to school at BYU, so I only met her 3 times during my mission: Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter). The last time I saw Terri we had a very long and interesting gospel conversation in her living room. I was impressed. It was the first time I had found a girl that had as much knowledge about the scriptures and gospel doctrine as I had!

After returning home from my mission I went to BYU for 1 and 1/2 semesters (BYU has a 1/2 semester for returning missionaries). During that time I met Terri, we dated, fell in love, and we married just after she graduated with a degree in Microbiology. We spent our honeymoon in Israel with my extended family. One of the turning points for me was our continued love of discussing gospel doctrine. Terri continued to surprise me with her knowledge of the scriptures and of even the most difficult doctrine. She was truly my equal!

Before getting married Terri and I talked a lot about what we expected from each other in marriage, the roles we each would play, and what our future goals were. Here are some things that came from those discussions that effected our entire marriage and  brought us to where we are today:

We intended to get married in the Temple. That meant that we had to be worthy to enter the Temple: we had to keep the 10 commandments, and live with honesty and integrity.
We would both be virgins when we got married–we would not have to worry about any sexual ‘history’, disease, or relationship problems. Coming from the 60’s generation of ‘free love’ and the sexual revolution, this was not necessarily easy (and it seems to be getting more and more difficult with each generation). But I think it makes a difference in creating a long-term loving relationship.
We wanted to plan our life so that, sometime in the future we could go on a mission together as a couple. This meant several things: 1) we would have our children early and quickly so that we would be young enough, and healthy enough, to serve a mission when we were older. 2) It also meant that we would need to be wise financially–we had to prepare so that we would have the financial resources available to serve a mission together. This meant not going into unwise debt, paying off our house quickly, etc.
As any children we would have would come quickly, and close together (we had 5 children in 7 years) Terri agreed to stay at home with the children while I worked. We believed at the time (and was counseled by the Prophets) that it was imported for one parent to stay home with the children. As we lived our lives (and eventually changed roles) we came to realize just how important this decision was! Running a home and raising children is a full-time job for a parent–just as important and difficult as the parent working to support the family. I expressed many times to Terri how comforting it was for me to know that she was at home while I worked. Time and again things come up in life–both the mundane and serious–that are almost impossible to deal with without someone at home. A child is sick, forgets their lunch, gets in trouble at school; a car breaks down, things break at home and need fixed, someone gets in an accident or has a long-term illness…the list can and does go on and on. And in each case, because there is someone at home tending to all these issues, it frees the person responsible to earn a living to be able to concentrate on their work, achieve greater success and income, and bring needed income and resources to and for the family. Day after day, week after week, year after year, I was grateful to have that partner at home backing me up and doing things I simply could not do.
Staying at home does not mean you do not grow. Although Terri stayed home with the children, that did not mean that she sat in front of the TV and watched soap operas and ate Bon Bons! The list of challenges she met and overcame is impressive, and added to our family in ways that cannot be numbered or measured. Here is just a small list: 1) she became acquainted with computers–we owned one of the first computers, which she learned to use AND to program. In fact, she got to the point where she built her own computer. Even today if there is anyone having computer problems of any kind, it is Terri they turn to for help! 2) She learned to build. Beginning with finishing our concrete basement in Connecticut, Terri moved on to building a garage, then a Sun-room, and after moving to Utah, built an entire 3,600 SF house! She became proficient in electrical wiring, plumbing, heating, framing, soldering copper piping, etc. Even today when family have building problems or issues they can turn to Terri for answers! 3) She did all the normal domestic things for the home: quilts, sewing, counted-cross (we have many beautiful counted-cross pictures framed on the walls of our home), cooking (she is a gourmet cook), etc.  4) Over time Terri also continued her first love: medicine. Although she only practiced as a Med-Tech (using her Microbiology degree) for a short time, she continued to work on and off in the medical field as time and circumstance would allow. She worked on an ambulance, in doctor’s offices, and spent several years working from home doing medical transcription. Using her unique blend of medical knowledge and computer skills, she was called upon to aid medical offices to upgrade and use new computer systems or medical programs. As I mentioned, the list could and does go on and on!
We agreed that if the time came that Terri w anted to start or expand her career, I would support her. In essence, we would trade places, and I would stay at home and she would go to work. Well, that time came. After our children were grown and out of college Terri wanted to go back to school to become a PA. This just happened to be in line with our other goal–going on a mission together–as we both felt it would enhance our abilities to serve the Lord. So we did the switch: I quit my job at American Roofing and Terri and I moved back to Connecticut so she could go to graduate school and become a PA. While Terri spent her time at school, I found work and also spent some time writing books. Part of the covenant you make when getting married is to support one another. Terri supported me by staying home with the children and doing all those things that enhanced our living conditions. It was my turn to support her in her desires while she went to school to become a PA, and then support her at home while she worked. Interesting as it might sound, it was only after we switched roles that Terri truly came to understand how important having someone at home backing you up really was. When she was at work and problems would come up–the same ones that always come up–that would have put great pressure on her, or on us if we both worked, they simply became minor inconveniences because I could take care of them. That meant that when she came home from work she did not have to do anything but rest: all the problems had already been taken care of, dinner was cooked, and she could just relax and enjoy the evening. It was those moments–coming home from a hard day and realizing that, in spite of all the daily problems that occur in our lives, she was done! She did not have to worry about all the other issues of life–they were being taken care of by me (that was my job). She could concentrate on her work and her career and leave the rest to me. Eventually Terri went on to get her PHD in Global Health and was able to serve in numerous under-served areas of the world.
The time finally came when we were ready to serve a mission together. Because of our long-term goal, we were prepared and ready–spiritually, financially, and our talents blended well together to meet the challenges of the missions we served. For example: 1) We served in the Utah State Prison teaching ESL and job skills to the inmates. Because both Terri and I had graduated college, we were able to fulfill this calling with ease. 2) We served two missions with LDS Charities aboard the USNS Mercy–a hospital ship that traveled around Asia giving aid and comfort to those less fortunate. Only qualified people were permitted to go on these missions (the vetting process was tough and very strict). But with Terri’s medical background, and my construction background, we were a perfect fit for these missions. 3) We served in the Congo. Terri was called as the Mission Medical Adviser and I served by working with mission apartments and aiding the Church with buildings they were constructing there. 4) We currently serve in the West Indies–again, Terri being called to serve as Mission Medical Adviser for two missions (the Barbados and Trinidad missions), while I serve as MLS.
I believe that Terri and I created a loving, long-term relationship in large part because we followed the counsel of the Prophets: setting righteous goals of keeping morally clean before marriage, being married in the Temple, and continuing to live those righteous covenants after marriage. Our marriage has endured because we have always been honest with each other, and fulfilled the goals and promises made to each other before we were married. Terri did what she said she would do: she gave up her career and stayed home with the children. She then magnified that sacred calling by doing all the other things that enhanced our lives and blessed our family. I also did what I promised to do: I worked hard and supported my family. I spent time and effort to improve myself so that I could earn more and make our lives better. When the time came to reverse roles, I lived up to my promise and quit my job and moved to Connecticut so that Terri could go to school. We both kept our promise to prepare to go on a mission together by having children early, by being frugal–staying out of debt and paying off our mortgage, and be remaining Temple worthy so we could be called to serve the Lord.
Living a righteous life and setting these types of goals is not easy…but it is rewarding! We have shared experiences that neither one of us could have ever imagined when we began this journey. I am so blessed to have found a woman willing to live a righteous life, to work hard and sacrifice for the Lord, and willing to do the hard things required to grow in the way the Lord would have us grow–in faith with an eye towards God. I truly have no regrets. If I had it to do all over, I would choose the same woman, I would choose the same life and experiences. They have been (and will continue to be) beyond my wildest dreams.

On the causeway bridge on St Martin is a heart that lovers can use to seal or ‘lock’ their love together. Terri and I placed our lock on the heart to commemorate our 40 years together!

One last thing I thought I would share. After getting engaged to Terri I wrote a poem for her. It is just as true now as it was then!

WILDFLOWER

  As I searched the earth for a flower for my Garden,

I walked past the neatly kept rows of roses;

past the pots, plants, and bushes

that would have filled my Garden to excess;

and into the open field behind the Gardener’s gardens.

 

It was there I found the wildflower .

 

She grew by a path less traveled,

and the depth of her color

made her stand our from among all of the other plants

that were able to endure the heat of the day.

 

I remember the first time I touched the soft petals;

so exquisite in their softness,

so finely detailed…

and I found no thorns to mar its beauty,

or interrupt the experience with pain.

 

So I planted it in my Garden,

and gave it room to grow.

 

I did not have to tend it with such care

as I would have had to tend the others;

I only gave it the freedom to grow unfettered,

and then enjoyed the growing.

 

Now, as I walk in my Garden in the evening

my eyes always go to the one special place;

for not only has my wildflower kept its bloom,

but it has filled my garden

with wildflowers of all colors.

 

When I sought a flower for my Garden,

I walked the paths less traveled;

and I chose a flower that endured,

and gave me beauty for a lifetime.

Fire in the hills

I went to the French hardware store, trying to find something the Dutch hardware store didn’t have…and got to see a large home fire. According to the paper, it was started by a large barbecue that got out of hand!

This comes on top of the ‘dump fire’ that has been raging for about a week. The local island dump, situated in the middle of a salt pond (this island was once the main source of salt in the area–they have natural salt ponds that trap water, which, after evaporating, leaves salt). The fire has caused nauseous smoke for the city of Philipsburg. They have been promising to built a trash-to-energy plant here for some time (we had one in Bountiful, Utah, and in Connecticut, that work great), but the government has been delaying the installation of the plant: the plant would probably be built and owned by a third party, and all the power on the island is now government owned (diesel powered generators), so they would be in competition with each other…

Anyway, there seems to have been a lot of smoke and haze around the island recently.

Wecome to the new Missionaries !

At our weekly Correlation Meeting at the Branch (where the Branch Mission Leader and the missionaries coordinate the work in the area), we were all able to meet the new missionaries: Sister Rindlisbacher (Sister R), and Elders Johnson and Smith

Here is an amusing sign display we saw. There is a hair salon that Terri has used (she stopped using it because she decided that I cut her hair better than they did– go figure!), that moved across the street. Look at the signs:

Each week all the missionaries meet with the Branch Leadership–the Branch Mission Leader and sometimes members of the Branch Presidency.

This is Brother Whitehead (Branch Mission Leader) and Brother George (Counselor in the Branch Presidency), taking the lead in the meeting. He coordinates the work of the missionaries on the island, and aids the missionaries in getting the members to work together with the missionaries when needed.

Elder Ashcraft and Elder Johnson (new), who work the Pt Blanche/Belvedere area. They will soon be moving from Pt Blanche to Belvedere, as we will be closing the Pt Blanche apartment.

Elder Smith (new) and Elder Stevens who work the St Peters area. They live in an apartment next to Elders Whipple and Monroe, who work the Ebenezer area

Sister Provsgaard (Sister P) and Sister Rindlisbacher (Sister R) who is new. Everyone has such a hard time pronouncing their names– they get shortened!

The Butterfly Farm

Before leaving the island of St Martin, the missionaries wanted to visit the Butterfly Farm. Terri and I had been there once before, with the Thompsons, but had not been back. We thought it was a great idea for P-Day.

.Elder Monroe showing off his skills at taming a ferocious butterfly…

Not to be outdone, Elder Moux tries his hand at butterfly taming…

Then Elder Jones tried his hand at butterfly taming… epic FAIL !

After seeing Elder Jones sad face, one lone butterfly had pity on him and landed

It was a great time had by all!

Fond Farewells

We gathered to say one last fond farewell to our three missionaries as they left for St Lucia and Barbados.

Elders Ashcraft, Cox, Jones, and Stevens. Elders Cox and Jones are heading for St Lucia.

Sisters Provsgaard and Call. Sister Call is heading for Barbados.

 

 

Final Goodbyes

We said goodbye to three missionaries this week: Elders Cox and Jones, and Sister Call.

We decided to have a going away lunch together at a local Indian Restaurant:

I guess they liked the food!

At our last District Meeting each set of missionaries was asked to come to the front and tell something they have learned from their companion. Then they were ‘asked’ to give their companion a hug!

There was also time given at the end of the lesson for missionaries to share their testimonies of the Gospel.

Elder Ashcraft bearing his testimony

Elder Monroe bearing his testimony

Elder Jones bearing one final testimony before leaving us

Elder Cox bearing one last testimony before he leaves

Sister Call bearing one last testimony before she leaves

Elder Whipple, our District Leader, checks the time before opening the meeting for the bearing of testimonies

Elder Sabin and Elder Moux, our Zone Leaders, share comments about each other

Sister Call and Sister Provsgaard share comments about each other

Elder Stevens and Elder Jones share comments about each other

Elder Whipple and Elder Monroe share comments about each other

One last group photo before we lose three great missionaries!

Transfers

Well, we will be saying goodbye to Elder Jones, Elder Cox, and Sister Call this week. The two elders will be going to St Lucia, and the sister to Barbados.

Elder Jones works his magic in Sacrament meeting. We will really miss Elder Jones (Jonesy), who is always smiling and happy! He always lights-up a room when he comes in. He has perhaps grown the most while here in St Martin. He came out on his mission so shy–and has grown into a great missionary, unafraid to meet new people and experience all the strange and different things one must confront on a mission. He is always willing to help out–leading music, playing the piano, volunteering for service, etc. I see great thing in store for him as he continues to grow and permits his faith to overcome any fears he may still have.

Elder Cox is also leaving. I have been on teaching assignments with Elder Cox on numerous occasions and find him to be very knowledgeable and a good teacher. He is very dedicated, has a strong testimony of the Gospel, and has grown a lot while here in St Martin.

We will also be losing Sister Call. She has been an outstanding missionary! She is totally unafraid to try new things, to test her own faith and the faith of her companion as they push themselves to do better and be better. The number of people they contacted and taught always led the District and Zone while she was here! She can be very proud of the work she has done and she shows great promise in who she will become in the future!

We are sad to see them go, but excited to see who will will have to work with next!

District Meeting : Prelude before the storm…

Here are some pics of our recent District Meeting. Next week is transfer week, and we think we will be losing at least 3 and perhaps 4 of our missionaries. We won’t know for sure until Monday!

Elder Whipple conducting District Meeting. He does such an excellent job leading and teaching at these weekly meetings!

Here is our group of missionaries

Elder Moux, Cox and Ashcraft role-playing during District Meeting

Prior to transfers, we always do apartment inspections. We want to be sure that any new missionaries coming to the island will have a nice place to live. We check for cleanliness and also make sure they are changing their water filters, etc. This time we also installed new fire/CO alarms in all apartments.

This is a view from the Point Blanche apartment. They won for cleanest apartment (and were rewarded with goodies).

This is a view of Philipsburg. The main city and tourist area is to the right. Everyone comes off the large ships and walks to downtown Philipsburg to shop and eat, etc.

View looking over Simpson Bay. Marigot, where the French Elders live is to the right. You can see the causeway leading to the main airport. The French boarder is right at the end of the causeway. Our local church is located right in the middle of those large buildings/warehouses.

This is a view from the top of the hill coming from St Peters to Cole Bay. The hill on the left is where Terri and I live. Never get tired of this view!