One year ago today . . .

On April 6, 2009,we entered the MTC in Provo, Utah -- then 10 days later, arrived in Hong Kong. What an unbelievable, stretching, learning, growing experience this year has provided! We've loved our association with the Area Presidency, the Filipino members, and the Chinese people! Our love for all people in all places has grown and expanded.

Today, April 6, 2010, we had a public holiday and decided to spend a few hours exploring a place we'd heard about -- Kowloon City Walled Park. This is a beautiful place where thousands (perhaps as many as 100,000) had lived in cramped and difficult situations until the "city" was demolished and people were relocated in the 1990s.

On this peaceful day, many adults were spotted doing their tai chi exercises in the park.

Fortunately, we met a most kind, interesting man who told us of growing up in the city. He spent his life there until the city was demolished and the population relocated. His English was very good and we were appreciated learning of his "life in the walled city." In his current situation, he comes to the beautiful park each morning for his exercise and daily walk.

We continue to marvel at all the experiences and opportunities available in Hong Kong. The last six months of our stay here will continue to be filled with seeing and doing new things. Of course, the most important part of our being here is the day-to-day blessing of serving in the Area Presidency offices, working with our dear Chinese friends, and associating with the wonderful senior couples.