I will trade you one for two

One brother, two talks

Did I mention that Stacy's cousin Bob Rains booked him for two talks on Sunday.  His first talk was at 10am at the Colonial.  The other congregation, Macombs had their Watchtower study first and when Stacy was finished he walked next door and gave the same talk again. He said the second talk went much smoother (of course that's the one we didn't get to hear). Needless to say, he was relieved when it was all over.

Harlem Kingdom Hall where Stacy gave two talks on the same day

The McClouds with Maydelle, Samone, and Ruthie

One car, two feet

Since we had Italian for dinner last night, Bob was gracious enough to change his plans and found us a wonderful soul food spot.  Only fitting for Maydelle's first visit to Harlem.  Since this restaurant was only a few blocks away, we decided, after a quick change of shoes, to walk it.  We arrived at Londells, a classy little foodie place with collard greens, mac and cheese, fried and baked chicken, ribs, etc.  Delicious (both food and friends).

With cousins Bob & Ruth Rains (serving at Bethel for over 40 yrs and counting)

Enjoying hospitality with friends from Colonial congregation

One friend, two friends

After our fantastic meal, it was time for Ruthie to go home :-(. It was so great to be with her although our visit was such a quick one.  Dropped her off at the Metro North Harlem station and then we took Maydelle to the heart of Harlem for some shopping fun.  A local sister was adamant that we go to the store on 7th Ave between 125th and 126th and tell "AJ" that "Cynthia from Dunkin' Donuts" sent us.  Left Maydelle and Samone at the store while I found a parking spot.  By the time I returned, Maydelle was behind a curtain in the back of the store and all I could see was the huge pile of dresses on the floor at her feet (wish I had a picture).  She bought quite a number of things and even bought me a dress that she really wanted for herself (thanks Maydelle)!  And Samone bought me a purse (thanks Samone). A girl could get used to this spoiling!

Speaking of spoiling, our dear friends Johnny and Paula arrived from Minnesota to see us off before we leave for Africa :-).  Or maybe they came to make sure their son Kevin, who will be joining the McCloud travel crew on Wednesday, is ready for this journey.  Or maybe they didn't have anything else to do but get up at 2:30am, drive to Rochester, and fly to NYC by way of Chicago.  I can think of a few other things to do with with a lazy Sunday.