Missionary Moments

Tuesday Robbie and Ray came to visit, Yes. Robbie had been planning on going to Japan for a holiday since last year. I was never sure if I was going to be in an area that would be easily accesible or a non-japanese speaking gaijin, but as I magically got a 4th transfer in Himeji, a famous tourist location, it was almost inevitable that he would visit. I shared that it isn't usually encouraged, but if he made it over to where I was, I would not complain at all. We organised through email and managed to meet at the eki, and I was able to take him, Ray and there Uni friend around for like up to 4 hours I think. It was a super hot day, but we had plenty of time to catch up, and for me to share how great being a missionary can be. We had people and friends we know stop us a lot and Robbie was quite surprised how popular we are. I hadn't thought about it too much, but we are definitely well noticed in the community. So we got to go finding at the same time more or less, and it was a good experience for all of us...... Was a good day, and not distracting thankfully. The white handbook says it is discouraged because of the distraction it can provide, I was a little worried it might, but in the end I think it helped a lot.

The biggest disappointment of the week was no Typhoon. It passed right over Himeji to go devaste some people further North. We were waiting all week for it, people were saying 'Oh, it's coming tomorrow!' almost everyday, so we were canceling and re making appointments all week, and the it didn't even come. I had no idea about the Earthquake either. I must be in the safe zone I guess. Prayer works.

After Church on Sunday we had another sweet making gathering with the AMWAY lady. I got the other two to come again so all 4 of us went, and ended by talking about and sharing eternal families and temples. The AMWAY lady previously has had absolutely no interest in anything besides our physical presence, but it looked like it a had a bit of an effect. I also know how to make Purin and Curry bread roll things now, so another thing to add to the list of amazing food I can cook for my companions and you guys when I get back.

Josh is back this week, how weird is that!!! ..... First one back of this generation. .....I am excited for him, but it will be sad to not have another missionary out there to confide in during emails. He has given me a good image of what being an older missionary is like and stuff as we have communicated......

I forgot to tell you last week, I think, that I lifted a car out of a ditch. With my muscles.  We were riding past the Jehovah's witness church and one of them had driven there car into the ditch, somehow, like half in so it couldn't drive out (front wheel drive Japanese box car). They saw us ride past and were like, You are here! Finally! Some strong people! So page choro and I got in the ditch and lifted it out while they pulled it to get it back on the pavement. It was fun. I can now say I have picked up a car (with the Lord and a companion's help).....

with Robbie in front of Himeji castle