Happy New Year loved ones!!!
It is 2:30am and we just got back. We spent a wonderful New Years Eve with Patty's family.
I will tell you all about it tomorrow.
I am going to bed. What a great family!!! Patty is whom Tim baptized!
I will tell you all about the incredable New Years Eve tomorrow.
I love you all and Happy New Year to you all!
Hiroko
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Friday, December 30, 2011
We had to get up early to be at the office at 7:15. We ,new missionaries, had to go to the police station to take care of ID. When we got there , there were at least 100 elders! and the man in charge told us that it will take 4 hours to process everything. I was not happy so I prayed that everything is going to move along speedy. And they did. It is worse than DMV in USA.
But they sure take good care of senior missionaries. We get to go first and we were done in 2-1/2 hours. then they got taxies just for the senior missionaries to go home.
I am so glad it is over. But we have to do it once a year.
We just relaxed all day. Evan went to the park and walked 50 minutes. But nooooo, not me. I was too tired. So watched TV, Animal kingdom and Japanese program.
We are planning to go to Outback with other couples to celebrate New Years. Then at 6:00 we are going to Tim's friends house (Patricia Rodrigues)
And we are going to Ferreira Ward on Sunday. (Tim served few months there!)
Not much going on today. It is another holiday here. I tried to cook rice but didn't work so well.
Amy, did you find your sunglasses?
I love and miss you guys so much.
Fireworks are heard all day long to day and yesterday.
Happy New Year!!!!
But they sure take good care of senior missionaries. We get to go first and we were done in 2-1/2 hours. then they got taxies just for the senior missionaries to go home.
I am so glad it is over. But we have to do it once a year.
We just relaxed all day. Evan went to the park and walked 50 minutes. But nooooo, not me. I was too tired. So watched TV, Animal kingdom and Japanese program.
We are planning to go to Outback with other couples to celebrate New Years. Then at 6:00 we are going to Tim's friends house (Patricia Rodrigues)
And we are going to Ferreira Ward on Sunday. (Tim served few months there!)
Not much going on today. It is another holiday here. I tried to cook rice but didn't work so well.
Amy, did you find your sunglasses?
I love and miss you guys so much.
Fireworks are heard all day long to day and yesterday.
Happy New Year!!!!
Thursday, December 29, 2011
It is hard to believe that we only have two more days this year!
We HAD TO BE AT WORK at 8:00 again and it is so hard to get up.
We worked at the office entering the information all day long.
Then we went to my favorite lunch at the Temple. They had spaghetti and it was good!!!
Then worked little more at the office and we got home at 4:00.
Office is closed tomorrow so I was looking forward to sleeping in but.....Nooooo
We have to go to the police dept to obtain the ID card at 7:15!!! I am so disappointed.
Today was another cool day. It is amazing. I thing it is around 75 degree or less.
It was so good to talked to Tim and Jen. Jen how is your feet? Don't run that much!!!!
At the temple today, one of the lady approched us and introduced her that she knew You, Tim and Evan. Gisela Oliveira is her name. We took a pictures together so dad will send it to you!I was almost in tears!!! She even works at our office building. We are so excited to go to Tim's ward. Evan can tell you their names. We showed your picture to Gisela and she smiled!
Appearently her friend who was investigating when you were there got baptised too!
Life is getting better! Oh, I had hot dogs tonight. Peanut butter sandwich for breakfast.
Wish you a very Happy New Year!!!!
I miss and love you all!!
Hiroko
We HAD TO BE AT WORK at 8:00 again and it is so hard to get up.
We worked at the office entering the information all day long.
Then we went to my favorite lunch at the Temple. They had spaghetti and it was good!!!
Then worked little more at the office and we got home at 4:00.
Office is closed tomorrow so I was looking forward to sleeping in but.....Nooooo
We have to go to the police dept to obtain the ID card at 7:15!!! I am so disappointed.
Today was another cool day. It is amazing. I thing it is around 75 degree or less.
It was so good to talked to Tim and Jen. Jen how is your feet? Don't run that much!!!!
At the temple today, one of the lady approched us and introduced her that she knew You, Tim and Evan. Gisela Oliveira is her name. We took a pictures together so dad will send it to you!I was almost in tears!!! She even works at our office building. We are so excited to go to Tim's ward. Evan can tell you their names. We showed your picture to Gisela and she smiled!
Appearently her friend who was investigating when you were there got baptised too!
Life is getting better! Oh, I had hot dogs tonight. Peanut butter sandwich for breakfast.
Wish you a very Happy New Year!!!!
I miss and love you all!!
Hiroko
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Another cool day. I am so lucky that weather is cool. I had to get winter clothes out last night.
It was a good day today. We had a wonderful lunch on our office floor. They take turn to make lunch once a month. Amazingly it was one of the best!!! People are so wonderful. The couple in our room came back from the vacation. They only speak Pourtigues so I asked them how many children they have. I also learned when someone sneeze, you say "Saudi!" So I could not wait someone to sneeze today.
But language is so hard and I feel left out not knowing what is going on!
Today we got Japanese program on TV!!! I was so happy. We can watch Fox news and Animal kingdom also!The office work is not easy. I have no clue what they are doing. Well, I will learn but I want to get going with meeting people outside.
Evan found the church Tim used to go. So we are going there this Sunday. The best part is they start 10:50!!! But we have to take onibus.
Sharon Starley E-mailed me and it helped me so much.
We found fruit ice bar at the corner and it was good. But they were out of passion fruit again.
Did Steve's dad know Woffenden's?
I might have to ask you to send me something. You know my black ugly shoes? I probably need them. The street here is so broken on the surface and I can't walk with my heals. Dad needs his winter shoes. He left them at the Chase.
Also Joey do you remember the Woolong tea you got for me? The one which has 100 tea bags. Don't get Yamamotoyama brand. They are too expensive.
Also fruit rolls. I have only one left!
We got the phone working but we don't know the number yet. Nothing comes easy here. But we are happy that we have phone.
I told you that it is so hard to cross the street. It really is scareley and we have to have the right moment to do it. Elder and Sister Sucadden are still affraid to do it. But today, we saw old lady started crossing. So Evan and I were following her laughing. It was funny that we have to follow old lady!The local can do it with no problems
I miss you all and love you so much!!
Mommy
It was a good day today. We had a wonderful lunch on our office floor. They take turn to make lunch once a month. Amazingly it was one of the best!!! People are so wonderful. The couple in our room came back from the vacation. They only speak Pourtigues so I asked them how many children they have. I also learned when someone sneeze, you say "Saudi!" So I could not wait someone to sneeze today.
But language is so hard and I feel left out not knowing what is going on!
Today we got Japanese program on TV!!! I was so happy. We can watch Fox news and Animal kingdom also!The office work is not easy. I have no clue what they are doing. Well, I will learn but I want to get going with meeting people outside.
Evan found the church Tim used to go. So we are going there this Sunday. The best part is they start 10:50!!! But we have to take onibus.
Sharon Starley E-mailed me and it helped me so much.
We found fruit ice bar at the corner and it was good. But they were out of passion fruit again.
Did Steve's dad know Woffenden's?
I might have to ask you to send me something. You know my black ugly shoes? I probably need them. The street here is so broken on the surface and I can't walk with my heals. Dad needs his winter shoes. He left them at the Chase.
Also Joey do you remember the Woolong tea you got for me? The one which has 100 tea bags. Don't get Yamamotoyama brand. They are too expensive.
Also fruit rolls. I have only one left!
We got the phone working but we don't know the number yet. Nothing comes easy here. But we are happy that we have phone.
I told you that it is so hard to cross the street. It really is scareley and we have to have the right moment to do it. Elder and Sister Sucadden are still affraid to do it. But today, we saw old lady started crossing. So Evan and I were following her laughing. It was funny that we have to follow old lady!The local can do it with no problems
I miss you all and love you so much!!
Mommy
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Our
apartment is great and spacious and full of Brazilian food and fruit.
The weather is the best, only a couple of hot days, the rest are breezy
and warm. Provo and Salt Lake were so freezing cold!
Everyone is treating us like royalty here. We went to a Brazilian ward our first Sunday and so many people came over to to greet us. Hiroko even spoke Japanese to one of the Japanese-Brazilian members. The best news yet is that one of the girls Tim taught on his mission is going to get sealed in the temple in January! This is the greatest news possible--I met the whole family and they are the best ever.
Poor Hiroko isn't adapting as well as I thought she would, but she's a fighter and will be OK in a little while, I'm sure. She's tougher than a lot of people think. today was her best day and it looks like things will continue to improve for her since we've been given these major assignments, with more to follow.
She's been wanting to be kept busy and the holiday season here with all the people going on vacation hasn't helped.
I feel sorry for you guys having to endure another Nevada winter while I'm having the time of my life here during the summer.
There are really a lot of things that we need to learn and remember. We've been given some major assignments concerning a fresh water project way up north to help keep animals from starving and ruining the economy of the small villages there.
Also we have to manage a 2 stake program way down south to help families generate their own food crops, chicken farms and egg production facilities to bolster their finances. I'm cramming to learn the words and techniques the Brazilians use for chicken coops, farm implements and equipment, manure, feed, drill rigs, excavating techniques, etc. It's a real zoo!!
Evan
Everyone is treating us like royalty here. We went to a Brazilian ward our first Sunday and so many people came over to to greet us. Hiroko even spoke Japanese to one of the Japanese-Brazilian members. The best news yet is that one of the girls Tim taught on his mission is going to get sealed in the temple in January! This is the greatest news possible--I met the whole family and they are the best ever.
Poor Hiroko isn't adapting as well as I thought she would, but she's a fighter and will be OK in a little while, I'm sure. She's tougher than a lot of people think. today was her best day and it looks like things will continue to improve for her since we've been given these major assignments, with more to follow.
She's been wanting to be kept busy and the holiday season here with all the people going on vacation hasn't helped.
I feel sorry for you guys having to endure another Nevada winter while I'm having the time of my life here during the summer.
There are really a lot of things that we need to learn and remember. We've been given some major assignments concerning a fresh water project way up north to help keep animals from starving and ruining the economy of the small villages there.
Also we have to manage a 2 stake program way down south to help families generate their own food crops, chicken farms and egg production facilities to bolster their finances. I'm cramming to learn the words and techniques the Brazilians use for chicken coops, farm implements and equipment, manure, feed, drill rigs, excavating techniques, etc. It's a real zoo!!
Evan
Another perfect weather. I had to wear long sleeve top.
went to the office for the 9;00 meeting. Then we went to the temple to eat my favorite lunch. They sure serve the best food.
Then we run back to our apartment for the phone and TV guy to come. Yes, they came!!!. But phone does not work.
TV is working little better. We can watch news in English now!!! I was so happy.
We walked up the hill to the bread store. It was so far away and steep hill. Of course Evan tells me that he did not think it would be that far.
Please ask President Edgren if he knows Debi and Arlene Woffendens. They knew you guys and lived in the same complex. They are from Southern California. Sister Woffenden is a nurse.
People are still on vacation but we are having special luncheon on our floor tomorrow to welcome them back.
You don't know how great it is to watch TV in English. They even have Japanese program!!!
Kids in Brazil are soooo cute. Just like Mexican, Philippino kids are cute. You know what I mean!
Evan keeps buying food and tells me "We have so much food! We have to eat them!" Just like when we were in Sparks. He buys cookies, and other sweets but I do not like them,
I eat one Kazoozle and one fruit roll a day. I shared kazoozle with our office brotheren and they loved it! That was so generous of me!!!!!
I am so happy that I can watch English TV. It was the highlight of the day.
But I still miss you guys and I love you!
Hiroko
went to the office for the 9;00 meeting. Then we went to the temple to eat my favorite lunch. They sure serve the best food.
Then we run back to our apartment for the phone and TV guy to come. Yes, they came!!!. But phone does not work.
TV is working little better. We can watch news in English now!!! I was so happy.
We walked up the hill to the bread store. It was so far away and steep hill. Of course Evan tells me that he did not think it would be that far.
Please ask President Edgren if he knows Debi and Arlene Woffendens. They knew you guys and lived in the same complex. They are from Southern California. Sister Woffenden is a nurse.
People are still on vacation but we are having special luncheon on our floor tomorrow to welcome them back.
You don't know how great it is to watch TV in English. They even have Japanese program!!!
Kids in Brazil are soooo cute. Just like Mexican, Philippino kids are cute. You know what I mean!
Evan keeps buying food and tells me "We have so much food! We have to eat them!" Just like when we were in Sparks. He buys cookies, and other sweets but I do not like them,
I eat one Kazoozle and one fruit roll a day. I shared kazoozle with our office brotheren and they loved it! That was so generous of me!!!!!
I am so happy that I can watch English TV. It was the highlight of the day.
But I still miss you guys and I love you!
Hiroko
Monday, December 26, 2011
Elder and Sister Succuden, our mentors, came tonight to fix dinner. It was rice, vegitable and scrambled eggs. But with soy sauce they were good. Here in Brazil it is OK to fix scrambled eggs for the dinner for the guests.
She brought me some rice and told me how to cook them without rice cooker. so I am excited.
Tel guy came tonight but it will not be working until tomorrow.The Sucuddens are such wonderful people and shows us what to do.
Well, I am going to get ready to go to bed. Tomorrow is the big day. TV man is schedule to come to hook up English TV!!!!
I love you all!!!
Joey and Amy, thank you for sending pictures of Pumkin!She looks so happy!
Hiroko
She brought me some rice and told me how to cook them without rice cooker. so I am excited.
Tel guy came tonight but it will not be working until tomorrow.The Sucuddens are such wonderful people and shows us what to do.
Well, I am going to get ready to go to bed. Tomorrow is the big day. TV man is schedule to come to hook up English TV!!!!
I love you all!!!
Joey and Amy, thank you for sending pictures of Pumkin!She looks so happy!
Hiroko
Evan and Hiroko's Mission: Can you get me Janis and Jennefer's E-mail address...
Evan and Hiroko's Mission: Can you get me Janis and Jennefer's E-mail address...: Can you get me Janis and Jennefer's E-mail addresses? Can you call Janis and find out if she can read my blog? My Brazilian Reed is back i...
It rained on and off all day long. Since I have long missionary skirt, bottom of the skirt was all wet.
It was cool all day and I had to wear sweater.
we went to the office but our computer is still not working so not much to do. Beside most of the people in the office are still gone on vacation.
We went to the shopping mall to eat. We tried something different. and It was OK. Then went to supermarket to get soy sauce and other stuff.
today, Telephone people are supposed to come but we will see. They already did not show up last week. We are supposed to get English TV tomorrow and I am so excited. I hope they don't change the appointment. I am so excited !! to watch English TV. Pray for me that they will come tomorrow!!!
We had ham sandwiches and will eat peanut butter sandwich later.
Tomorrow is Tuesday so we are going to eat at my favorite place, The temple. Can't wait.
Please send me the pictures of Jonathan, Tyler, Taylor, Beeshi, Joey and Amy and Tim and Jen. I love to paste them on the office wall.
Address is:
Elder/Sister Ray
Assoc Bras.I.J.C.S.U.D
Bem Estar
Av. Prof. Franc isco Morato2430
05512-300 Sao Paulo SP.
Brasil
I would love to get mails from you guys!!!
I miss and Love you!!!!
Mommy
It was cool all day and I had to wear sweater.
we went to the office but our computer is still not working so not much to do. Beside most of the people in the office are still gone on vacation.
We went to the shopping mall to eat. We tried something different. and It was OK. Then went to supermarket to get soy sauce and other stuff.
today, Telephone people are supposed to come but we will see. They already did not show up last week. We are supposed to get English TV tomorrow and I am so excited. I hope they don't change the appointment. I am so excited !! to watch English TV. Pray for me that they will come tomorrow!!!
We had ham sandwiches and will eat peanut butter sandwich later.
Tomorrow is Tuesday so we are going to eat at my favorite place, The temple. Can't wait.
Please send me the pictures of Jonathan, Tyler, Taylor, Beeshi, Joey and Amy and Tim and Jen. I love to paste them on the office wall.
Address is:
Elder/Sister Ray
Assoc Bras.I.J.C.S.U.D
Bem Estar
Av. Prof. Franc isco Morato2430
05512-300 Sao Paulo SP.
Brasil
I would love to get mails from you guys!!!
I miss and Love you!!!!
Mommy
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Merry Christmas!!
It sure does not feel like it.
Even the temple doe not have lights!
We got up early then went to MTC, English speaking ward. So nice to see all the Elders. I am so proud of them.
We came home after the meeting then ate wonderful Christmas lunch:
1 boiled egg
1 peanut butter and banana sandwich
1/2 Japanese ra-men (Not good at all)
I really am getting tired of peanut butter sandwiches. Tomorrow is Monday so the Temple cafeteria is closed. I like their food the best!!!
I wish we can find Japan town and hope they have those pre cooked rice.
I know it will be easier, but right now, I am not happy with food.
Please find out if Janis is getting my blog. I sure hope so.
It was so wonderful to see you and talked to you all. I miss you so much. I sure wish I could have eaten Tonkatsu!!!! We just find the good Japanese restaurant.
We even have Panda Express so if Brandon is sent to Brazil, he would enjoy it.
Also we have Out Back and Applebee. I am sure they are expensive but....I deserve it.
I love you so much! and miss you more than you ever know.
Wendy please give me Sharon's E-mail address.
It was not hot today. So far I do like the weather!!!
Mommy
It sure does not feel like it.
Even the temple doe not have lights!
We got up early then went to MTC, English speaking ward. So nice to see all the Elders. I am so proud of them.
We came home after the meeting then ate wonderful Christmas lunch:
1 boiled egg
1 peanut butter and banana sandwich
1/2 Japanese ra-men (Not good at all)
I really am getting tired of peanut butter sandwiches. Tomorrow is Monday so the Temple cafeteria is closed. I like their food the best!!!
I wish we can find Japan town and hope they have those pre cooked rice.
I know it will be easier, but right now, I am not happy with food.
Please find out if Janis is getting my blog. I sure hope so.
It was so wonderful to see you and talked to you all. I miss you so much. I sure wish I could have eaten Tonkatsu!!!! We just find the good Japanese restaurant.
We even have Panda Express so if Brandon is sent to Brazil, he would enjoy it.
Also we have Out Back and Applebee. I am sure they are expensive but....I deserve it.
I love you so much! and miss you more than you ever know.
Wendy please give me Sharon's E-mail address.
It was not hot today. So far I do like the weather!!!
Mommy
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Christmas eve!!! There are not much christmas decorations at all.
It was another hot day in the morning but just started raining so hard and now it is much cooler.
It is our day off so we went to the mall to have lunch. I am still scared of crossing streets. It just does not make sense. Evan tells me to go! when the signal is red and Stop!!! when the signal is green. I really don't understand. and he always tells me to run!! And he says, how come you cant run fast, when we were at Pleasant Hill you used to run a lot! Yes, that is about 40 years ago. I just don't have a good shoes to run.
I had another peanut butter sandwiches with hard boiled egg for the dinner. I just don't want to go out because I don't want to cross the streets.
We still don't have English TV and it is driving me crazy! I hope they can set it up on Monday!
I had fruit roll for desert. Thank you Amy!!!
There was a boy playing music on TV tonight and he looked just like Zach! Kids here are so cute!!!
I miss my grandkids soooo much.
I got to pet two dogs today!!! I was so happy!!!
I wish you all a very Merry Christmas!!!!
I Love and miss you all!!
Hiroko
It was another hot day in the morning but just started raining so hard and now it is much cooler.
It is our day off so we went to the mall to have lunch. I am still scared of crossing streets. It just does not make sense. Evan tells me to go! when the signal is red and Stop!!! when the signal is green. I really don't understand. and he always tells me to run!! And he says, how come you cant run fast, when we were at Pleasant Hill you used to run a lot! Yes, that is about 40 years ago. I just don't have a good shoes to run.
I had another peanut butter sandwiches with hard boiled egg for the dinner. I just don't want to go out because I don't want to cross the streets.
We still don't have English TV and it is driving me crazy! I hope they can set it up on Monday!
I had fruit roll for desert. Thank you Amy!!!
There was a boy playing music on TV tonight and he looked just like Zach! Kids here are so cute!!!
I miss my grandkids soooo much.
I got to pet two dogs today!!! I was so happy!!!
I wish you all a very Merry Christmas!!!!
I Love and miss you all!!
Hiroko
Friday, December 23, 2011
It was supposed to rain today but did not. But it is HOT!! and NO aircondition!!
We got up early and took a bus to a market. They were selling vegitable, fruits, meat and fish. I felt like I was Mr. Zimmer of"worst food I ever ate."(?)
They even sell clothes. Evan was in big heaven but I did not want to try much. I ate fruit which I have no idea what it was.
Due to the Holiday, the office is closed today and tomorrow. It is hard when we don't have anything to do. Watching TV? No idea what they are saying. We should be getting English stations sometime next week, I hope. I can't wait!!!
Highlight of the day was talking to Joey, Amy and Everlyn and Pumkin.
I am trying to stay positive but I am getting homesick!
The best part of this apartment is that we can see the temple from our place. It is so pretty at night.
I miss eating rice!!! Japanese and not Brazilian! They sell rice but I don't know how to cook! I wish I had rice cooker here! I just want to put butter and soy on and eat!!!
Other missionary couples brought us home made bread! and other goodies for Christmas. They really are very nice.
I miss you and love you tons,
Mommy
We got up early and took a bus to a market. They were selling vegitable, fruits, meat and fish. I felt like I was Mr. Zimmer of"worst food I ever ate."(?)
They even sell clothes. Evan was in big heaven but I did not want to try much. I ate fruit which I have no idea what it was.
Due to the Holiday, the office is closed today and tomorrow. It is hard when we don't have anything to do. Watching TV? No idea what they are saying. We should be getting English stations sometime next week, I hope. I can't wait!!!
Highlight of the day was talking to Joey, Amy and Everlyn and Pumkin.
I am trying to stay positive but I am getting homesick!
The best part of this apartment is that we can see the temple from our place. It is so pretty at night.
I miss eating rice!!! Japanese and not Brazilian! They sell rice but I don't know how to cook! I wish I had rice cooker here! I just want to put butter and soy on and eat!!!
Other missionary couples brought us home made bread! and other goodies for Christmas. They really are very nice.
I miss you and love you tons,
Mommy
Thursday, December 22, 2011
12/22/11
Evan:
Another fun day. Since it's holiday time lots of people at the church offices are off on vacation, so there's not much to do at the office. So we got caught up on a little paperwork, went to the temple cafeteria (feijoada,-dark bean and meat stew- salad with pickled green peppers, white stuff (good) spinach, carrots and a white dressing that was really good--because the lady next to me said it was her favorite-white chicken in a nice dark sauce with veggies, and some really nice portuguese chorizo slices with grilled onions. For dessert a huge piece of really sweet watermelon and a banana puree, which was too sweet for Hiroko but not for me!! I even took the extra banana puree home to use on toast and it was
really good.
Since I'm not too tired I'm going to list a few things that I want to keep as a journal, which this blog will turn into, I suppose.
1--Every day is a holiday for me. Just like Sis. Scadden said, "I'm loving every minute of every day"! The Lord is blessing us with many happy, spiritual moments every day.
Here is a list of some of the things that I've really enjoyed so far:
Lime and chocolate covered wafer crisps
big juicy papayas, mangos, yellow melons, apple-bananas (not really a cross between the two)
goiabada (thick guava paste)
Sucrilhos Moça (a great breakfast cereal)
the friendliest people in the world who laugh along with me whenever I butcher the language
passionfruit yoghurt and juice
crispy little meat, pizza and shrimp pies
3 really huge supermercados within a 5-10 minute walking distance, with so much stuff It'll take me a long time to check them out.
A view of the temple from our window
2 stores across the street with Japanese owners
summer weather
being able to watch TV after 5pm
everybody wearing shorts and sandals after work
being able to go out on occasion without your spouse if she's too tired to go
being greeted by tons of members when you attend their ward
free bus rides if you're over 60
A great apartment with washer, dryer, fridge, 2 bathrooms and 2 showers, tons of storage space and
shelves. And being able to find everything since we don't have to search a large home anymore
a bigger and better computer desk than the one at home
Guarana soda (my favorite all-time soda}
working with General Authority-emrerituses and ex mission presidents
our own desks, telephones and computers in a spacious air-conditioned beautiful office complex
on the temple grounds within a 10 minute walking distance of our apt.
a fridge and pantry fully stocked when we arrived
being treated like royalty by EVERYONE!!
being arm-in-arm with Hiroko all the time
a large modern shopping mall across the street from the temple
Knowing that our kids and grandkids are praying for us daily
enjoying the companionship of the other senior missionaries, who all have a great sense of humor
unlimited hot water for showers (the water is electrically heated as it comes out the shower head)
a ceiling fan in the front room that whirls really fast
not having to go through customs on arrival in Sao Paulo (can you believe that?)
being able to have bring 280 lbs of luggage PLUS 2 carry-on bags, a knapsack and a large handbag
a king-size bed and a spare bedroom
a recliner chair
an employee of the apt. complex that comes by every other day to collect our garbage
a nice view of the neighborhood from our 4th floor apt.
I keep telling everyone that this is more like a working vacation than anything else I could describe.
A final comment--last night I was dreaming about doing something in San Francisco, and when I woke
up I gradually realized I was still in Brazil and I immediately got so happy that I was still here.
I can't wait to see what next week will bring
Another fun day. Since it's holiday time lots of people at the church offices are off on vacation, so there's not much to do at the office. So we got caught up on a little paperwork, went to the temple cafeteria (feijoada,-dark bean and meat stew- salad with pickled green peppers, white stuff (good) spinach, carrots and a white dressing that was really good--because the lady next to me said it was her favorite-white chicken in a nice dark sauce with veggies, and some really nice portuguese chorizo slices with grilled onions. For dessert a huge piece of really sweet watermelon and a banana puree, which was too sweet for Hiroko but not for me!! I even took the extra banana puree home to use on toast and it was
really good.
Since I'm not too tired I'm going to list a few things that I want to keep as a journal, which this blog will turn into, I suppose.
1--Every day is a holiday for me. Just like Sis. Scadden said, "I'm loving every minute of every day"! The Lord is blessing us with many happy, spiritual moments every day.
Here is a list of some of the things that I've really enjoyed so far:
Lime and chocolate covered wafer crisps
big juicy papayas, mangos, yellow melons, apple-bananas (not really a cross between the two)
goiabada (thick guava paste)
Sucrilhos Moça (a great breakfast cereal)
the friendliest people in the world who laugh along with me whenever I butcher the language
passionfruit yoghurt and juice
crispy little meat, pizza and shrimp pies
3 really huge supermercados within a 5-10 minute walking distance, with so much stuff It'll take me a long time to check them out.
A view of the temple from our window
2 stores across the street with Japanese owners
summer weather
being able to watch TV after 5pm
everybody wearing shorts and sandals after work
being able to go out on occasion without your spouse if she's too tired to go
being greeted by tons of members when you attend their ward
free bus rides if you're over 60
A great apartment with washer, dryer, fridge, 2 bathrooms and 2 showers, tons of storage space and
shelves. And being able to find everything since we don't have to search a large home anymore
a bigger and better computer desk than the one at home
Guarana soda (my favorite all-time soda}
working with General Authority-emrerituses and ex mission presidents
our own desks, telephones and computers in a spacious air-conditioned beautiful office complex
on the temple grounds within a 10 minute walking distance of our apt.
a fridge and pantry fully stocked when we arrived
being treated like royalty by EVERYONE!!
being arm-in-arm with Hiroko all the time
a large modern shopping mall across the street from the temple
Knowing that our kids and grandkids are praying for us daily
enjoying the companionship of the other senior missionaries, who all have a great sense of humor
unlimited hot water for showers (the water is electrically heated as it comes out the shower head)
a ceiling fan in the front room that whirls really fast
not having to go through customs on arrival in Sao Paulo (can you believe that?)
being able to have bring 280 lbs of luggage PLUS 2 carry-on bags, a knapsack and a large handbag
a king-size bed and a spare bedroom
a recliner chair
an employee of the apt. complex that comes by every other day to collect our garbage
a nice view of the neighborhood from our 4th floor apt.
I keep telling everyone that this is more like a working vacation than anything else I could describe.
A final comment--last night I was dreaming about doing something in San Francisco, and when I woke
up I gradually realized I was still in Brazil and I immediately got so happy that I was still here.
I can't wait to see what next week will bring
Thursday
Clouday and hot and humid.
Went to the office around9:00 and learned little more but it will take for long time to learn!
For lunch, Elder and Sister Scuddin and we went to the Temple. I love their food! It is really good.
Then we had to come home to wait for the tel man to come to fix it. But of course noooooooo. He did not show up. We still have no phone and no English TV.
It is vacation time and the office will be closed on Friday and Saturday.We are going to farmer's market type of store tomorrow. Evan is so excited.
Tonight dinner, peanut butter sandwich, hard boiled eggs, can peas. Pretty sad, isn't it? I wish they sell cooked rice! I miss Japanese food!!
I really feel that I have done nothing productive yet!
I sure miss and love you all!
Across the room there is a brotheren who really remind me of Reed!!!
Hiroko
Went to the office around9:00 and learned little more but it will take for long time to learn!
For lunch, Elder and Sister Scuddin and we went to the Temple. I love their food! It is really good.
Then we had to come home to wait for the tel man to come to fix it. But of course noooooooo. He did not show up. We still have no phone and no English TV.
It is vacation time and the office will be closed on Friday and Saturday.We are going to farmer's market type of store tomorrow. Evan is so excited.
Tonight dinner, peanut butter sandwich, hard boiled eggs, can peas. Pretty sad, isn't it? I wish they sell cooked rice! I miss Japanese food!!
I really feel that I have done nothing productive yet!
I sure miss and love you all!
Across the room there is a brotheren who really remind me of Reed!!!
Hiroko
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Cute Dog
The house we went to tonight had 4 dogs!!! I had so much fun with them.
Every time Evan goes to the grocery store, he comes home new cookies,, nuts and so on. He really enjoys going there.
It is hot today!!
People drives like crazy here. Pedestrians have absolutely NO right on the street. We have to cross street to go to the office and I get so scared. Signals does not mean much. and streets are not paved. So I have to hang in Evans arm to just walk. When we have to cross street, Evan says go! and pulls my arm.
I really miss you guys!!! I love you tons and tons!!
Hiroko
Every time Evan goes to the grocery store, he comes home new cookies,, nuts and so on. He really enjoys going there.
It is hot today!!
People drives like crazy here. Pedestrians have absolutely NO right on the street. We have to cross street to go to the office and I get so scared. Signals does not mean much. and streets are not paved. So I have to hang in Evans arm to just walk. When we have to cross street, Evan says go! and pulls my arm.
I really miss you guys!!! I love you tons and tons!!
Hiroko
Wednesday!
Hi everybody. Hope all is well. It was a hot day.
Evan and I went to the office around 9:00. We slept well but still tired.
I helped Sister Scadden enter some information and I got worried how I can ever do that. So it was a hard day for me.
The Scadden and we went to near by mall to take more passport pictures then had a quick lunch.
We had a dinner appointment at 5:00 so we got back to our apartment to rest.
Our top leader and his wife invited us, and two other missionary couples to the Christmas dinner and it was good. No beans!
They have a cutest dog and I had so much fun with her. I miss Pumkin!!!
Today I got really homesick for my family and friends!!
Now it is 10:30 so will get ready for bed.
Dad has been so helpful and happy boy.
He went to the near by grocery store alone and had so much fun while I was sleeping.
Please do write E-mail to me. I miss your contact.
I love you!!!
Hiroko
Evan and I went to the office around 9:00. We slept well but still tired.
I helped Sister Scadden enter some information and I got worried how I can ever do that. So it was a hard day for me.
The Scadden and we went to near by mall to take more passport pictures then had a quick lunch.
We had a dinner appointment at 5:00 so we got back to our apartment to rest.
Our top leader and his wife invited us, and two other missionary couples to the Christmas dinner and it was good. No beans!
They have a cutest dog and I had so much fun with her. I miss Pumkin!!!
Today I got really homesick for my family and friends!!
Now it is 10:30 so will get ready for bed.
Dad has been so helpful and happy boy.
He went to the near by grocery store alone and had so much fun while I was sleeping.
Please do write E-mail to me. I miss your contact.
I love you!!!
Hiroko
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Dec 20, 2011
Another day passed. It was so hard to get up this morning but our senior missionary took us to the store and we shopped lieetle. But everything is so expensive! we even stopped by at the small Japanese store but they did not have anything.
Went to the office and waited the instruction. Then at lunch time, we all went to the Temple cafeteria. Food was good. and the temple was so beautiful.
After that we did not have much to do (because it is vacation time and most of the office people are gone.
So Evan and I left for home. We were so tired!
I took a nap from two till 5!!!! When I woke up I thought it was next day and could not figure it out why it is 4:00 and outside is light.
We are going to be at the office at 9:00. Until everybody in our department is back from vacation, we have not much to do.
Elder and Sister Scodden, who are in charge of us has been so nice. Elder Scadden can fix anything and dad said ,"Boy! he is just like Joey"
I took all the pictures of grand kids to the office. I still need fairly large one ofTaylor, Zoe, Jonathan and Ty. I want Wendy and Christy also.I want Joey and Amy and Tim and Jen's also.
It wad quite hot today. Please send me E-mail and let us know what is going on!
I love you.
Evan:
Hold on re the pictures. I think I can print at the office what mom wants.
Tim--Mom n I are going to the ward this Sunday that you were at during your mission. If u can, email me a list of their names so I can meet some of them.
Wen--For some reason the Wells Fargo website doesn't show the Jergaites' deposit. Maybe it's just slow because of Christmas.
We r still being treated like royalty!
Mom is so funny: The Japanese store had the best all time rice cookies I've ever had--with sesame seeds in them. Mom even really liked them, plus the owner is a really nice old Japanese man, bowing and sounding just like the Japanese in Tokyo.
This was a real landmark day for me. For the first time in over 40 years I had some guarana that was almost as strong and dark as the kind i had on my mission!!!!!!! It was edxpensive, but worth it. Also,the banana maça was really good and the orange juice is great.
We love you all,
Geech
Went to the office and waited the instruction. Then at lunch time, we all went to the Temple cafeteria. Food was good. and the temple was so beautiful.
After that we did not have much to do (because it is vacation time and most of the office people are gone.
So Evan and I left for home. We were so tired!
I took a nap from two till 5!!!! When I woke up I thought it was next day and could not figure it out why it is 4:00 and outside is light.
We are going to be at the office at 9:00. Until everybody in our department is back from vacation, we have not much to do.
Elder and Sister Scodden, who are in charge of us has been so nice. Elder Scadden can fix anything and dad said ,"Boy! he is just like Joey"
I took all the pictures of grand kids to the office. I still need fairly large one ofTaylor, Zoe, Jonathan and Ty. I want Wendy and Christy also.I want Joey and Amy and Tim and Jen's also.
It wad quite hot today. Please send me E-mail and let us know what is going on!
I love you.
Evan:
Hold on re the pictures. I think I can print at the office what mom wants.
Tim--Mom n I are going to the ward this Sunday that you were at during your mission. If u can, email me a list of their names so I can meet some of them.
Wen--For some reason the Wells Fargo website doesn't show the Jergaites' deposit. Maybe it's just slow because of Christmas.
We r still being treated like royalty!
Mom is so funny: The Japanese store had the best all time rice cookies I've ever had--with sesame seeds in them. Mom even really liked them, plus the owner is a really nice old Japanese man, bowing and sounding just like the Japanese in Tokyo.
This was a real landmark day for me. For the first time in over 40 years I had some guarana that was almost as strong and dark as the kind i had on my mission!!!!!!! It was edxpensive, but worth it. Also,the banana maça was really good and the orange juice is great.
We love you all,
Geech
Monday, December 19, 2011
Third day in Brasil
We got up around 7:30 then rushed to the office right next to the beautiful temple.
All morning we met people in the office and in the office everybody speaks English.
Weather was perfect today. One of our leader took us for lunch, authentic Brasilian food.
It was so good. Then I was getting sick so We went back to our Apartment. Actually there is one room with sofa so I could go to rest during the day.
Dad rested only10 minutes then went to the office to go to orphanige. But I was too sick to go so slept couple of hours. Evan told me it was good thing I did not go. Driving would have made me sick.
At night, we walked to Walmart. Seems like everything is so expensive. Dad was going crazy checking all the goodies saying "Oh Tim really liked!!Then we(dad) had to carry groceries. You really appreciate what we have in USA.
People in the office is so nice. We will go to the office at8:00 every morning.
And we found peanut butter!!! So expensive! But its worth it.
I am going to bed thinking about you guys. I love you and miss you guys so much.
Mommy
Geech:
Myself and about 25 other members visited an orphanage in the afternoon. the kids ranged from 1 to 18. The staff were really nice folks and the kids enjoyed our visit a lot. We teased and kidded around with them and then sang 3 christmas carols. They then each got a huge bag of candy and chips and we played around with them again trying to steal their candy, etc. We laughed so hard at times that I even started to get a teensy bit sweaty.
The ward had done a service project earlier for them. We hated to leave them all. I even had to hold back some tears for them all.
We love you all and think about you all the time.
Mom's doing great and it will even get better for her. It's true what the other couple missionaries say: I'm loving every minute of every day!
All morning we met people in the office and in the office everybody speaks English.
Weather was perfect today. One of our leader took us for lunch, authentic Brasilian food.
It was so good. Then I was getting sick so We went back to our Apartment. Actually there is one room with sofa so I could go to rest during the day.
Dad rested only10 minutes then went to the office to go to orphanige. But I was too sick to go so slept couple of hours. Evan told me it was good thing I did not go. Driving would have made me sick.
At night, we walked to Walmart. Seems like everything is so expensive. Dad was going crazy checking all the goodies saying "Oh Tim really liked!!Then we(dad) had to carry groceries. You really appreciate what we have in USA.
People in the office is so nice. We will go to the office at8:00 every morning.
And we found peanut butter!!! So expensive! But its worth it.
I am going to bed thinking about you guys. I love you and miss you guys so much.
Mommy
Geech:
Myself and about 25 other members visited an orphanage in the afternoon. the kids ranged from 1 to 18. The staff were really nice folks and the kids enjoyed our visit a lot. We teased and kidded around with them and then sang 3 christmas carols. They then each got a huge bag of candy and chips and we played around with them again trying to steal their candy, etc. We laughed so hard at times that I even started to get a teensy bit sweaty.
The ward had done a service project earlier for them. We hated to leave them all. I even had to hold back some tears for them all.
We love you all and think about you all the time.
Mom's doing great and it will even get better for her. It's true what the other couple missionaries say: I'm loving every minute of every day!
Sunday, December 18, 2011
third day in Brazil
We got up around 8:00 then went to the church, which is right by the Temple.
People are so wonderful but it is so hard not to be able to communicate.
I need Mac's oatmeal so badly.
Of course it is Sunday here so with missionary badged on, I could not buy or eat out!
After the church, went straight to bed. I was so tired!!!
Then around 3pm we went other missionary couples home to help wrap christmas presents for the office people.
Then we got too tired so we came back home. Joey, I am eating my last Rum nuget!!!
Guess what! you can not get peanut butter here.
Our mailing address is;
Sister Ray Assoc. Bras I.J.C.S.U.D
BEM Estar
Av. Prof. Francisco Morato 2430S P.
05512-300 Sao Paulo
Brasil
It rained this afternoon very hard so it was nice and cool. and thunders!!
This is Evan:
We went to a local ward this am. It is on the temple grounds and is really beautiful. the members were so friendly. Many of them came over to us to say hi and ask us about ourselves. Hiroko even spoke Japanese to one of the members. We found out that she lives in the same apt. complex with us, so she will be a fun neighbor for Hiroko.
Mom is adapting really well and is a real trooper. She hasn't been on her feet for such a long period of time since her surgery and she is holding up much better than I anticipated. It's fun being together all the time.
We love all the fruit and fruit juices here--they're so sweet!
Thanks tons for all your prayers. All our grandkids' prayers for us are appreciated so much.
Love you all lots,
Geech
People are so wonderful but it is so hard not to be able to communicate.
I need Mac's oatmeal so badly.
Of course it is Sunday here so with missionary badged on, I could not buy or eat out!
After the church, went straight to bed. I was so tired!!!
Then around 3pm we went other missionary couples home to help wrap christmas presents for the office people.
Then we got too tired so we came back home. Joey, I am eating my last Rum nuget!!!
Guess what! you can not get peanut butter here.
Our mailing address is;
Sister Ray Assoc. Bras I.J.C.S.U.D
BEM Estar
Av. Prof. Francisco Morato 2430S P.
05512-300 Sao Paulo
Brasil
It rained this afternoon very hard so it was nice and cool. and thunders!!
This is Evan:
We went to a local ward this am. It is on the temple grounds and is really beautiful. the members were so friendly. Many of them came over to us to say hi and ask us about ourselves. Hiroko even spoke Japanese to one of the members. We found out that she lives in the same apt. complex with us, so she will be a fun neighbor for Hiroko.
Mom is adapting really well and is a real trooper. She hasn't been on her feet for such a long period of time since her surgery and she is holding up much better than I anticipated. It's fun being together all the time.
We love all the fruit and fruit juices here--they're so sweet!
Thanks tons for all your prayers. All our grandkids' prayers for us are appreciated so much.
Love you all lots,
Geech
Saturday, December 17, 2011
First day in Brazil
After talking to Joey couple times, Finally Dad figure it out.
Seems like we left MTC few month ago. Joey and Tim took us to MTC then we took Van to SLC. Flight to Denver was quick then 9 hour flight to Sao Paulo. Thanks to Joey's patch, I did not get sick.
One missinary couple picked us up and I felt like I me two Angels. They are so wonderful!
Drive from Airpot reminded me of Hawaii alot. It was not too hot yet. As soon as I got to Brazil now my body's itchy!!Our apartment is wonderful 2 bed rooms 2 bathes(No bath tub) The apartment even have piano! We can see the beautiful temple from our windows.
I was so tired but we decided for a little walk. I did not want to be alone at home with no phone and nothing. I am clinging to Evan.
Went to MacDonaldo but they didnot have oatmeal cereal! So disappointed. Our appt is a mess right now and can't find anything.
The temple looks much smaller than I expected but it is beautiful.
One problem here. We cannot use running water. we have to boil water. The couple told us that we have to rinse dishes and everything with boiled water. we are not supposed to brush our teeth with tap water!No one told me that!!!It is so hard to take a shower n try not to get water in my mouth!
Other than that everything is working out. We have to use clorax to soak vegitables!!! Is this all true, Tim?
Please tell Barbara, Marlyn and Marie to log in to this Blog "Evan and Hiroko's Mission)
Wendy and Amy, I tried to call you but it did not go through.
Evan can't add any photos yet because for some reason mine is the only computer that connects to the internet. And if he plugs in his iPhone to transfer pictures, it might mess up my syncing with iPhone.
Love you all tons,
Mom n dad
Seems like we left MTC few month ago. Joey and Tim took us to MTC then we took Van to SLC. Flight to Denver was quick then 9 hour flight to Sao Paulo. Thanks to Joey's patch, I did not get sick.
One missinary couple picked us up and I felt like I me two Angels. They are so wonderful!
Drive from Airpot reminded me of Hawaii alot. It was not too hot yet. As soon as I got to Brazil now my body's itchy!!Our apartment is wonderful 2 bed rooms 2 bathes(No bath tub) The apartment even have piano! We can see the beautiful temple from our windows.
I was so tired but we decided for a little walk. I did not want to be alone at home with no phone and nothing. I am clinging to Evan.
Went to MacDonaldo but they didnot have oatmeal cereal! So disappointed. Our appt is a mess right now and can't find anything.
The temple looks much smaller than I expected but it is beautiful.
One problem here. We cannot use running water. we have to boil water. The couple told us that we have to rinse dishes and everything with boiled water. we are not supposed to brush our teeth with tap water!No one told me that!!!It is so hard to take a shower n try not to get water in my mouth!
Other than that everything is working out. We have to use clorax to soak vegitables!!! Is this all true, Tim?
Please tell Barbara, Marlyn and Marie to log in to this Blog "Evan and Hiroko's Mission)
Wendy and Amy, I tried to call you but it did not go through.
Evan can't add any photos yet because for some reason mine is the only computer that connects to the internet. And if he plugs in his iPhone to transfer pictures, it might mess up my syncing with iPhone.
Love you all tons,
Mom n dad
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Last day in USA!
Hi everybody. We finally finished MTC and we are finally ready to leave for Brazil. Yes, I am finally excited to leave. Tchau Tchau.
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