Hello to all friends and family!
Before we start on the week, I want to wish Sara and Kyle a happy Anniversary this week. I hope you have a lovely celebration.
I know I took for granted the privilege I had to be married in the temple and have one close enough to attend. Since 1976 Dad and I have never had a temple closer than an hour away, most of those years the temple was at least 2 hours distance. Today I attended the Jebres Branch Council meeting and the Branch Pres. handed out the goals for the Branch for this year. Included were the plans to help 3 families get to the Manila Philippine temple for the first time. It is such an expense for these families, and so many wait years. Going to the temple often seems like a good way to celebrate any old day.
We started this week by going to check on the Boyalali water project. We left early and once we started up the mountain, the A/C was off and the windows were down. I was lovely, gorgeous, and interesting. The huge reservoir had the top poured and was being reinforced. This huge "tank" looks like a gigantic rectangular cement box. There will be others built similar but not as big. The pipe from the source comes down the mountain and part of the water will fill this tank and other tanks. Then the water will be distributed among the villages. Have I told you lately how I love these fine Indonesian people?!? As we drive along, they wave and call out, and if we stop... for instance to inspect how an MCK is coming along, then the children will crowd around and pose for pictures. Elder Greenway loves to tease the boys about the girls, and they get so silly. (So does he!) It is one of our favorite pastimes, taking pictures of the Indonesian children.
Thursday we are heading to Jogja to see one of the finished MCKs at one of the Islamic Boarding Schools. I love to take cookies to these schools, and they love to eat them. On our way home last Monday we decided to go to visit the Solo King's Palace. Now a bit of history...the Dutch began their rule here around 1600, and before that were the Portuguese. Through all that time Surakarta (Solo) had a King. The first one had in his many names, the name Sola (hence Solo).
The Kingdom passed from father to son, (some of these kings had 40 wives and 148 children) even until now. However, in 1945 when Indonesia gained Independence, the Surakarta Kingdom lost all political power, are only allowed one wife, and have NO money. The King lives in the palace, but he has a day-job, and his children go to public schools. Therefore, the grounds, (which are huge with many, many buildings) and all the ancient artifacts (some from ancient Indonesia when they were just tribes) are in sore need of care. We kept saying that John would go crazy seeing all the poorly kept artifacts.
They have a huge silk umbrella that was used at the first kings coronation, which is shredded and in tatters. However, they also have life size statues of the eunuchs that once guarded the queen and her children, and a wooden teak umbrella that was used in circumcision rituals. I thought to myself that I'll bet the last thing anyone was thinking at that time was, “Boy, I'm sure glad they brought an umbrella!” We enjoyed the lecture given to us in English by the guide, and Elder gave him about 25,000 rupiah for his trouble ( a whole $2.50) and the guide let Bono know he usually got $5.00 for his English tours, so Elder had to cough up the extra amount. Poor Elder...
On Wednesday we were suppose to inspect the missionary apartments, however the Barat and Tangah Elders had their apartment broken into Tuesday evening. They were invited to Pres. Budi's home for dinner and then went to the Sopomo Building. There was a short blackout in that area and when they arrived home a window next to the door had been broken, and then the burglars simply unlocked the door. However, first they tried to force it open, so there was damage to the door and the broken window. They got away with some portable DVD players, a personal hard drive belonging to one of the Elders, a bike, and various other things. The President called Elder at about 9:30 and he walked over to the apartment. Poor guys, there were police all over the place. Elder will have to tell you about the police. Let's just say CSI this ain't. Apartment inspections will be this week.
On Thursday we had the great joy of going with Bimbang, a private English tutor from the Jebres branch, to visit one of his students. He asked us because this young man is taking over his father’s batik business, and would like to market to the United States. He graduated from University here in "economy" (he meant economics) and wants to be able to converse, and understand English so he can do business with Americans. He did well, he needs to have more conversation, learn "money talk", and just grow a bit. But he was delightful (as usual) and let us tour his business.
His "brush batik", where they use bees wax to draw designs, then dye the fabric, then scrap and boil, and restart the process, was done at the homes of the artists. But his "stamp batik" was done on site. Now of all the times not to have a camera, but we thought we were meeting this man at one of the churches, and we didn't know anything about him, so we have no pictures. But the place was like an old auto repair shop, except instead of tools, there were little pots over fire, with trays of wax (paraffin, tree sap and bees wax) and there were about 5 men, stripped down with just a cloth around their waists, dipping bronze stamps into the wax and stamping the fabric.
The Business has about 1400 different stamps, and the young man told us that there is industrial espionage, and that the large textile mills copy their prints. He also told us that it is important to keep his workers happy and pay a good wage so they don't "leave and join a competitor". I had purchased a piece of "printed fabric" unaware of how it was made. I will appreciate it much more having seen the workers in that shop.
We then went to have FHE with the Caturs (Barat Branch Pres.), and some investigators and part member families. Elders Purnawan, and Hendro, and Sisters Nichols and Sari were also there. We had Family Home Evening, and then ate Chicken Satay with peanut sauce, and rice wrapped in banana leaves and boiled for about 3 hours, then sliced and eaten with the peanut sauce. Think sliced potatoes with peanut gravy.
I visited with Asnibar, Sister Catur's mother who was one of the first members in Solo (I think 1971). There were about 8 members then, and she and her husband lived behind the first building used here to maintain it and the grounds around it. She was from Sumatra, and was Muslim, and she married an army man. He brought her here, and then the missionaries found them. She said that when she would go to Sumatra to visit her extended family they would refuse to touch her and they would turn their heads and spit in disgust. But, she said, her parents never did - they still loved her. Then we talked about Farrida and her Muslim parents.
Which brings me to today. Farrida was confirmed and member today. Elder Prasetyo confirmed her and it was wonderful. When she came back and sat down by me, she motioned to her friend Francesca how the Spirit had washed over her. Francesca reached out to tenderly touch her arm and Farrida rubbed Francesca's arms as if to share a bit of the Spirit she felt with such warmth. Farrida is living with her brother, and I don't think her parents know that she has been baptized. Every Sunday her father comes and takes her "motor", so she and Francesca get to church on their own. They are two very beautiful girls, and we love them dearly.
Elder Greenway had to go to Jogja to that Branch Council. So he and Bono left at 5:45 a.m. to get to Jogja by 8. I took a taxi to Kapatihan, to see Farrida, and to attend Jebres Branch Council. We asked the Mission President a few weeks ago if we could do this, and he said he trusted our judgment. I don't think we'll make a habit of it, as I am used to having him right there and it was a little lonely.
During the week, interspersed with the above, we went to visit the less active and some of the elderly who cannot get out. We really love this part of our week. We have met some wonderful people and had sweet experiences. This week we met President Budi's father who is very ill, and can no longer move about without pain. He was cheerful and talked to us about his life.
I now have 24 piano students, and that takes quite a bit of time to prepare their lessons. Every week I have to decide what each student is ready to learn, I use the Keyboard Course, my personal stash, and the Internet to prepare their lesson. I try to do some theory, a fun song and a church based song to move them along. So far Cori, Ricko, Ezra, and Yos have played for Sacrament meeting. I am very proud of them. Agus is about there, just a few more weeks.
Elder Greenway should be about home. He called to let me know he was on his way. I told him to stay awake and keep Bono company. Joel, I know where your sleeping in cars comes from now. The door shuts and Dad is out like a light. I told him from now on I get to ride up front with Bono if he can't stay awake. Bono and I get the giggles when he snores.
We miss our kids, and we miss our grandkids. I held Probono's new baby all during council meeting today, got the baby to sleep, and just enjoyed 2 hours of snuggling with a new one. He kept asking me if I was "okay Seestah", I told him to go away. Hug those babies for us, even those who are 11 years old, and remember to look after one another. Adam is in Boise for the week with his job, and with Sara. We love it when we know you are together. Pray for each other, and we will too. To all of you wonderful friends, have a good week and let us know how you are doing.
Love you all,
mom & dad
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Week 25 Photos - 5
Last, but not the least - Farida's baptism. Here I am standing in for Elder Grover. At least we got the Gr... correct! I wish we could attach some of the Spirit that was felt on this day. We held the baptism on Saturday with 3 day's notice and the RS room was filled to capacity and several were standing! Farida couldn't stop smiling and laughing!
And here are Farida's friend Francesca (on the right) who is taking the lessons and has been to church/activities with Farida about 10 times; and Francesca's friend, who came today for the 1st time.
And there always seems to be a few of these guys and gals at these events!
And here are Farida's friend Francesca (on the right) who is taking the lessons and has been to church/activities with Farida about 10 times; and Francesca's friend, who came today for the 1st time.
And there always seems to be a few of these guys and gals at these events!
Week 25 Photos - 4
OK, How about those piano lessons! I will have to get a group picture when Sister Greenway has 5 or 6 going at one time! I think I'll get her some roller skates! Ezra's at the piano and Kiki is watching,and Lala is sitting at one of the keybards.
Lala
Oh, and let's not for get the YW choir! After piano in Kapatian!
Lala
Oh, and let's not for get the YW choir! After piano in Kapatian!
Week 25 Photos - 3
While we werre in Jogja with the Russells, we took Sister Trudy Russel to Kasongan, which is known for its pottery and ceramics.
The variety was incredible and the pieces were beautiful. And you wouldn't believe the prices. Trust me when I say we pay too much in the US and they charge too little here!
Just some samples.
The variety was incredible and the pieces were beautiful. And you wouldn't believe the prices. Trust me when I say we pay too much in the US and they charge too little here!
Just some samples.
Week 25 Photos - 2
This is Dr Steven Russell, a retinal specialist, whom we sponsored to come and teach and lecture at the University Hospital in Jogyakarta (Jogja). We took him and his wife, Trudy, around the area to show them the other projects we had going on.
Here we are finalizing the trip to the Muran Eye Institute in SLC for Dr. Supartoto (2nd from left) and another eye physician. Humanitarian Services also purchased about $50,000 in equipment, and Dr. Russell brought another $8,000-$10,000 in instruments from the University of Iowa where he is a professor.
Every once in a while I have to include a photo of me to prove that I am in Indonesia, too.
During our meeting the residents were being monitored during catarac surgery. In the meantime, Sister Greenway is eating her snack noted in this weeks letter!
Here's the resident who was doing the above noted surgery.
Here we are finalizing the trip to the Muran Eye Institute in SLC for Dr. Supartoto (2nd from left) and another eye physician. Humanitarian Services also purchased about $50,000 in equipment, and Dr. Russell brought another $8,000-$10,000 in instruments from the University of Iowa where he is a professor.
Every once in a while I have to include a photo of me to prove that I am in Indonesia, too.
During our meeting the residents were being monitored during catarac surgery. In the meantime, Sister Greenway is eating her snack noted in this weeks letter!
Here's the resident who was doing the above noted surgery.
Week 25 Photos - 1
Lets begin with our Wheelchair project. Here is Elder Meredith (Area Director of Humanitarian Services - Indonesia (we are his eyes, ears, arms, and legs in Central Java) speaking with (L - R) Risna, Lely, Damai, and Michael Allen from UCP (United Cerebral Palsy). We are in the "factory" office. We manufacture the wheelchairs in-country to avoid the tariffs. Plus it provides employment - many of whom are recipients of the wheelchairs. We've applied to LDS Humanitarian services for funds for another 5,000 custom-fit chairs. Elder & Sister Meredith go home in April.
Here are a few shots of the warehouse. These are "standard" generally for severely involved children - with custom padding and sizing of the chair.
Below are the mobility chairs that the church has the patent on.
Note the extended, wide front wheels. These are nearly impossible to tip over forward. Remember there are very few sidewalks in Indonesia and village streets are either dirt or cobblestones.
Our Logo, and the UCP logo
Here are a few shots of the warehouse. These are "standard" generally for severely involved children - with custom padding and sizing of the chair.
Below are the mobility chairs that the church has the patent on.
Note the extended, wide front wheels. These are nearly impossible to tip over forward. Remember there are very few sidewalks in Indonesia and village streets are either dirt or cobblestones.
Our Logo, and the UCP logo
Week 25
Week twenty five! I can't believe it. Time certainly flies when you love what you're doing!!!
Before I say anything else, I must tell you that yesterday was the highlight day of our mission. FARRIDA WAS BAPTIZED! And standing in for Elder Grover was Elder Greenway, who baptized her. It was simply and absolutely beautiful. She was so happy and excited and the font room was full to overflowing with the wonderful members who have grown to love her. Her friend Francesca was there and Francesca brought another friend. We gave her a photo album with some pictures we had the Grovers send us of her early days as an investigator. She has also begged me for pictures of my family.
Farrida wants an eternal family. She recognizes the difference between a God of love, and the vengeful God she knew about. She Knows Her Heavenly Father Loves Her and She Wants an Eternal Family. So Greenway Kids, she is now part of your family. She has taken a hankering to Jackson. She calls him rascal, because that's how I described him. Today, she was to be confirmed, but her father came (she lives with her brother) and took her "motor" away. So by the time she found an "angkota" (a van that is part of the public transportation here) and got to Church she was too late. The Branch Pres. said next week... so we are taking her and Francesca out to dinner tomorrow to celebrate anyway! She is beautiful inside and out, and we love her dearly.
The only thing that could make this better was the baptism today of Indah and her daughter Febi, another 2 baptisms for the Tangah Elders!!!! This lady will make a wonderful contribution to the branch. She is as they say "golden".
We started the week by driving off to Yogjakarta (Jogja - 2 hrs.) with Bro. and Sis. Meridith, the humanitarian missionaries for Indonesia. They own a cherry orchard on West Mountain near Payson, Utah. They're practically neighbors from where I grew up and we know many of the same people. (For my siblings... they are very good friends with Doc and Pam Mendenhall.) What a small world.
Anyway, Jogja is a country within a country. When Indonesia gained their Independence, Jogja arrange to retain their "kingdom" title, and so they have a king (who serves like a governor of a state) with a palace and everything. There is fierce loyalty to home here in central Java. If you are from Solo, you are from there no matter where else you live, and the same goes for Jogja. The Central Javanese people LOVE their homeland and their language and customs. Jogja also has some very rich history. There are some ancient Hindu temples there that are gorgeous, and other historical areas.
However, we were on a mission (get it?) on Monday and Tuesday, and so we were at full steam. Our first stop was to meet Sister Russell, the wife of the Retina Surgeon who was sent by the Church to teach some Drs. at the Eye Center there. They are actually headed home to Iowa tomorrow, but they have been here for two weeks. He brought equipment ($$$) donated by the Church with him, and has taught and lectured and operated so the Doctors, Residents and Interns could learn the latest. We found Sister Russell, and then met with both of them for lunch. Dr. Russell had to get back, so we took her with us to visit the United Cerebral Palsy unit there in Jogja.
The Church works with the United Cerebral Palsy in placing wheelchairs to needy people worldwide. Recipients are required to pay something for the chairs, so it might be a dollar, it might be $100, depending on the income of the family. The Church actually worked with them to design a better wheelchair for all the areas of the world, (they don't believe in sidewalks in Indonesia). These people are the best of the best! You almost feel you are in the presence of something holy. They understand the term "the least of these", and they have dedicated their lives to helping others. We were in awe.
We took a minute after that to visit a village south of Jogja where the entire community works together to produce some gorgeous pottery. We all enjoyed going from shop to shop. We bought a wind chime that is made of bamboo and coconuts. It has a funny bird on the top that moves as the chimes move, and a beautiful pottery dish that has bamboo woven along the edges. Then we did something monumental.....WE ATE SUPPER AT A WENDY'S!
Now, you have to understand that McDonalds and KFC are here in Solo, but they don't taste like they do in the US. (Some of you are saying that is a blessing). This Wendy's had the very same chili and baked potatoes that you can get on South Hanover Street in Carlisle!!!!!! Then the big news…we found out from the manager that they are building a Wendy's in the mall that connects to our apartment building in Solo. (I want to be honest, they do not have Diet Coke, so this was much bigger news for Elder Greenway than for me.)
Okay, back to the mission... The next day we attended a short lecture (short was good because I didn't understand a thing he said) by Dr. Russell, which Ron said was excellent and I'll take his word for it. Then we went to the operating room area. Now this is where it got worrisome.
They invited us into the Doctors’ area. However, to get there we had to go through a dark room where they had about 4 patients draped in gowns for cataract surgery. There were also about a dozen sets of shoes by the door, because that is the Muslim custom. So, this is a hospital. Hospitals are very germy places. Indonesian hospitals are VERY germy places. There is no door separating the Doctors’ area and this yucky waiting area, and I had to take my shoes off and walk barefoot to the couch where they were all waiting. There were about six other barefoot natives, and then the men had socks on.
So, we sat down and they had snacks and water available, and a TV that was showing actual cataract surgeries in progress. Imagine 12-inch eyeballs being cut, cataracts being sucked out, and then stitched up. Two of the snacks were these little round balls, but I was too worried about my polluted feet, to care about eating "eyeballs". However, I did learn more than I did in the lecture. I always have been a visual learner.
Well, then it was time for lunch. We decided it would be fun to take the 2 sets of Sister missionaries out for lunch, so we called and let them decide where they wanted to go. You guessed it, Wendy's!
I promised myself I would not tell anymore piano stories, but I just want to tell you, that I was just about finished with my 5:00 lesson on Wednesday, when the door opened and in walked a family (mom, dad, 2 kids) I don't recognize. I only had time to say welcome, when the door opened and in walked a couple of kids and a Muslim woman (I am assuming was their "nanny") that I have never seen before. I only had time to say welcome, when the door opened and in walked the lady that was baptized today, Indah, with her daughter, Febi. Now, I was sort of expecting Febi, but not the others! After some interesting moments of my bad Bahasa mixed with their bad English, I found out that Elder Mortoyo sent them and told them I would teach them piano, but he sort of forgot to tell me. So, I sat them down to the pianos, talked to them about posture (sit tall - duduk tinggi), hand position (dengan bola bawa), we "numbered" their fingers (satu, dua, tiga, etc.), and I wrote the finger numbers on the white board to "Jolly Old Saint Nicholas" (because it was the only song I could think of in my shocked condition and I had no music for them BECAUSE I DIDN'T KNOW THEY WERE COMING) and we all played that song and talked about rhythm and then they were "sudah" (done).
I then sent a SMS (text) to Elder Mortoyo, who barely understands English, and told him, and I quote, that he was "dead meat"! He understood that. We had a good laugh about it Friday at DDM (district meeting).
Right after DDM we took the Jebres Elders to lunch and let them chose where (if we had a Wendy's...). They chose KFC!!!! Mannnnnnnnn!!!! What a week for cholesterol! THEN we went to see Samsi, whose husband is a return missionary, but is not coming to church. She lives where there is a communal bathroom, a communal well (I'd rather go back to the operating room), and her home was one room about 12 ft. by 12 ft. However, it was colorful and clean and we sat on the floor and had a wonderful lesson together. She has a son who became a deacon today. Today at church she told a member that I was as her "Ibu" (mother). I told her I was okay with that, her mother passed away last year.
Elder Greenway has some big events coming up with PEF and ERS. Tomorrow we are heading out to inspect the water projects. OH!!!!!!! Elder Greenway and Elder Meridith, and Mike Allen (from United Cerebral Palsy), and the Elders ( if they can get permission) all want to HIKE TO THE TOP OF MARAPI!!! (I know, Elder & Sister Grover, I tried to tell them). Merapi is the ACTIVE volcano that looks just like a volcano you would draw if you were 6. Straight up to a point on top. So, children, this is to take place around March 19; I should be bringing your injured father home on the 20th for you to take care of… 'cause I'm comin' back!
It has been a marvelous week. What could be better than 3 baptisms? (I know... 4.) We're thrilled with the branches, the missionaries, the work, and most of all with being a part of this worldwide Gospel of Jesus Christ. We are grateful to talk to many of you. You are important to us. We want to know what is going on in your lives. Sometimes we get caught up in paradise, and you bring us back to your paradise.
We are thankful that you are taking care of each other. There isn't anything more important than that. The Savior made sure we knew that he expects us to take care of our stewardships. Family is the most important stewardship on earth. We love you, we certainly do pray for you, and we hope you pray for us. Be faithful.
With full hearts,
mom & dad
(Sister and Elder Greenway)
Before I say anything else, I must tell you that yesterday was the highlight day of our mission. FARRIDA WAS BAPTIZED! And standing in for Elder Grover was Elder Greenway, who baptized her. It was simply and absolutely beautiful. She was so happy and excited and the font room was full to overflowing with the wonderful members who have grown to love her. Her friend Francesca was there and Francesca brought another friend. We gave her a photo album with some pictures we had the Grovers send us of her early days as an investigator. She has also begged me for pictures of my family.
Farrida wants an eternal family. She recognizes the difference between a God of love, and the vengeful God she knew about. She Knows Her Heavenly Father Loves Her and She Wants an Eternal Family. So Greenway Kids, she is now part of your family. She has taken a hankering to Jackson. She calls him rascal, because that's how I described him. Today, she was to be confirmed, but her father came (she lives with her brother) and took her "motor" away. So by the time she found an "angkota" (a van that is part of the public transportation here) and got to Church she was too late. The Branch Pres. said next week... so we are taking her and Francesca out to dinner tomorrow to celebrate anyway! She is beautiful inside and out, and we love her dearly.
The only thing that could make this better was the baptism today of Indah and her daughter Febi, another 2 baptisms for the Tangah Elders!!!! This lady will make a wonderful contribution to the branch. She is as they say "golden".
We started the week by driving off to Yogjakarta (Jogja - 2 hrs.) with Bro. and Sis. Meridith, the humanitarian missionaries for Indonesia. They own a cherry orchard on West Mountain near Payson, Utah. They're practically neighbors from where I grew up and we know many of the same people. (For my siblings... they are very good friends with Doc and Pam Mendenhall.) What a small world.
Anyway, Jogja is a country within a country. When Indonesia gained their Independence, Jogja arrange to retain their "kingdom" title, and so they have a king (who serves like a governor of a state) with a palace and everything. There is fierce loyalty to home here in central Java. If you are from Solo, you are from there no matter where else you live, and the same goes for Jogja. The Central Javanese people LOVE their homeland and their language and customs. Jogja also has some very rich history. There are some ancient Hindu temples there that are gorgeous, and other historical areas.
However, we were on a mission (get it?) on Monday and Tuesday, and so we were at full steam. Our first stop was to meet Sister Russell, the wife of the Retina Surgeon who was sent by the Church to teach some Drs. at the Eye Center there. They are actually headed home to Iowa tomorrow, but they have been here for two weeks. He brought equipment ($$$) donated by the Church with him, and has taught and lectured and operated so the Doctors, Residents and Interns could learn the latest. We found Sister Russell, and then met with both of them for lunch. Dr. Russell had to get back, so we took her with us to visit the United Cerebral Palsy unit there in Jogja.
The Church works with the United Cerebral Palsy in placing wheelchairs to needy people worldwide. Recipients are required to pay something for the chairs, so it might be a dollar, it might be $100, depending on the income of the family. The Church actually worked with them to design a better wheelchair for all the areas of the world, (they don't believe in sidewalks in Indonesia). These people are the best of the best! You almost feel you are in the presence of something holy. They understand the term "the least of these", and they have dedicated their lives to helping others. We were in awe.
We took a minute after that to visit a village south of Jogja where the entire community works together to produce some gorgeous pottery. We all enjoyed going from shop to shop. We bought a wind chime that is made of bamboo and coconuts. It has a funny bird on the top that moves as the chimes move, and a beautiful pottery dish that has bamboo woven along the edges. Then we did something monumental.....WE ATE SUPPER AT A WENDY'S!
Now, you have to understand that McDonalds and KFC are here in Solo, but they don't taste like they do in the US. (Some of you are saying that is a blessing). This Wendy's had the very same chili and baked potatoes that you can get on South Hanover Street in Carlisle!!!!!! Then the big news…we found out from the manager that they are building a Wendy's in the mall that connects to our apartment building in Solo. (I want to be honest, they do not have Diet Coke, so this was much bigger news for Elder Greenway than for me.)
Okay, back to the mission... The next day we attended a short lecture (short was good because I didn't understand a thing he said) by Dr. Russell, which Ron said was excellent and I'll take his word for it. Then we went to the operating room area. Now this is where it got worrisome.
They invited us into the Doctors’ area. However, to get there we had to go through a dark room where they had about 4 patients draped in gowns for cataract surgery. There were also about a dozen sets of shoes by the door, because that is the Muslim custom. So, this is a hospital. Hospitals are very germy places. Indonesian hospitals are VERY germy places. There is no door separating the Doctors’ area and this yucky waiting area, and I had to take my shoes off and walk barefoot to the couch where they were all waiting. There were about six other barefoot natives, and then the men had socks on.
So, we sat down and they had snacks and water available, and a TV that was showing actual cataract surgeries in progress. Imagine 12-inch eyeballs being cut, cataracts being sucked out, and then stitched up. Two of the snacks were these little round balls, but I was too worried about my polluted feet, to care about eating "eyeballs". However, I did learn more than I did in the lecture. I always have been a visual learner.
Well, then it was time for lunch. We decided it would be fun to take the 2 sets of Sister missionaries out for lunch, so we called and let them decide where they wanted to go. You guessed it, Wendy's!
I promised myself I would not tell anymore piano stories, but I just want to tell you, that I was just about finished with my 5:00 lesson on Wednesday, when the door opened and in walked a family (mom, dad, 2 kids) I don't recognize. I only had time to say welcome, when the door opened and in walked a couple of kids and a Muslim woman (I am assuming was their "nanny") that I have never seen before. I only had time to say welcome, when the door opened and in walked the lady that was baptized today, Indah, with her daughter, Febi. Now, I was sort of expecting Febi, but not the others! After some interesting moments of my bad Bahasa mixed with their bad English, I found out that Elder Mortoyo sent them and told them I would teach them piano, but he sort of forgot to tell me. So, I sat them down to the pianos, talked to them about posture (sit tall - duduk tinggi), hand position (dengan bola bawa), we "numbered" their fingers (satu, dua, tiga, etc.), and I wrote the finger numbers on the white board to "Jolly Old Saint Nicholas" (because it was the only song I could think of in my shocked condition and I had no music for them BECAUSE I DIDN'T KNOW THEY WERE COMING) and we all played that song and talked about rhythm and then they were "sudah" (done).
I then sent a SMS (text) to Elder Mortoyo, who barely understands English, and told him, and I quote, that he was "dead meat"! He understood that. We had a good laugh about it Friday at DDM (district meeting).
Right after DDM we took the Jebres Elders to lunch and let them chose where (if we had a Wendy's...). They chose KFC!!!! Mannnnnnnnn!!!! What a week for cholesterol! THEN we went to see Samsi, whose husband is a return missionary, but is not coming to church. She lives where there is a communal bathroom, a communal well (I'd rather go back to the operating room), and her home was one room about 12 ft. by 12 ft. However, it was colorful and clean and we sat on the floor and had a wonderful lesson together. She has a son who became a deacon today. Today at church she told a member that I was as her "Ibu" (mother). I told her I was okay with that, her mother passed away last year.
Elder Greenway has some big events coming up with PEF and ERS. Tomorrow we are heading out to inspect the water projects. OH!!!!!!! Elder Greenway and Elder Meridith, and Mike Allen (from United Cerebral Palsy), and the Elders ( if they can get permission) all want to HIKE TO THE TOP OF MARAPI!!! (I know, Elder & Sister Grover, I tried to tell them). Merapi is the ACTIVE volcano that looks just like a volcano you would draw if you were 6. Straight up to a point on top. So, children, this is to take place around March 19; I should be bringing your injured father home on the 20th for you to take care of… 'cause I'm comin' back!
It has been a marvelous week. What could be better than 3 baptisms? (I know... 4.) We're thrilled with the branches, the missionaries, the work, and most of all with being a part of this worldwide Gospel of Jesus Christ. We are grateful to talk to many of you. You are important to us. We want to know what is going on in your lives. Sometimes we get caught up in paradise, and you bring us back to your paradise.
We are thankful that you are taking care of each other. There isn't anything more important than that. The Savior made sure we knew that he expects us to take care of our stewardships. Family is the most important stewardship on earth. We love you, we certainly do pray for you, and we hope you pray for us. Be faithful.
With full hearts,
mom & dad
(Sister and Elder Greenway)
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