England with the Bensons

We love any excuse to visit some of our favorite places and family is the best excuse.  We always do a drive by 10 Wickham Road (the apt. in the town of Nelson where our father and grandfather lived as a missionary in 1933.)  It is a dreary place, probably very much the same as it was back then....

 

And.....another favorite....the tiny village of Wycoller with it's ancient bridge that dates back 1000 years!

We never leave home without some missionary matierials and a prayer in our hearts that we might find someone we can introduce to the gospel.  On this day we were caught in a rainstorm and ducked under a bridge for shelter.  These two young women were sitting on the ground trying to stay dry.  A perfect opportunity.....before we said good-bye we had taught the apostacy and restoration and they agreed to meet with the missionaries.  Emma (our granddaughter who is their age and was with us), shared her feelings about the church and what it does for young women.  We bought them an ice cream, told them we loved them and parted as friends.....we have since talked with the missionaries who will teach them.  We hope for the best!

Conwy Castle in Wales is a must see!  It was built in the 1400's by King Edward I who just happens to be my 20th great grandfather.  Each time we go, I stake a claim, but so far, no one has stepped up and offered me a single blade of grass.   The family joined with the missionaries on the Church History Tour.  This is July 1 in England -- note the coats, hats, scarves, and lots of chilly wind!  Honestly, this weather!!!!!We stopped in Chester, a charming walled city and home to a large horse racing arena.  Sat. night the town dresses up in suits, and fancy clothes and heads out to the races.  They drink before, during, and after and it is pure entertainment to watch them stagger down the street in their spiked heels.  One woman fell in front of us and her necklace broke. Beads were  rolling in every direction.  Sam tried to be helpful by picking them up for her but others grabbed them as she staggered away.

All in all, it was another quick visit by family and as always it was FUN FUN FUN!