ENJOYING THE JOURNEY!

I don’t know why it is so very hard for me to write down my mission experiences and I apologize to those who have waited patiently for some word for me.  I’m trying—really I am!

I wasn’t quite sure what serving a mission as a senior sister would look like and, I have to say, I’ve been pleasantly surprised.  It is very different from the experience of the junior missionaries but the same in purpose.  We are not asked to adhere to the same rules and schedule as the juniors but are here as more of a support system and resource to the members and missionaries.  There is something wonderful about being valued for the life experiences and knowledge you have accumulated over the years even if it’s just as simple as giving love and encouragement.  But it is those same life experiences that bring complexity to trying to put your life on hold so you can be about your Father’s business.  You still have commitments and obligations back home that must be attended to and, of course, having a family that continues to grow and flourish adds a whole new element to being half way around the world.

I am so very grateful for the love and support I have received from those at home and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.  It has been so wonderful to be able to set aside (for the most part) concerns about finances, home upkeep, and such.  What a blessing that has been!  Family matters are a little more difficult.  Missing out on the one time celebrations and happenings are the hardest-- like the birth and blessing of my 12^th grand baby and my sister’s 80^th birthday celebration.  Sister Robinson has missed the marriage of her grandson-Peyton Jeppson.  We are both grateful for modern technology that allows us to at least see and be a small part of those momentous occasions.

Serving a mission does not entirely keep family trials and challenges at bay but as a missionary-I feel especially in tune with the spirit and am so grateful for that extra measure of guidance and protection from above that is so readily available to those who serve on the Lord’s great team of missionaries—“The greatest team ever assembled” –as my late husband used to say.  I truly feel so honored to be a part of it! 

Holy Cow!!!

I truly thought this was
a picture of some of the local
foliage-but-NO-it's MY
silouette!!!

Adapting to such a different climate and culture has been interesting to say the least.  When we first arrived, my feet swelled up like balloons, my hair went into bush mode, I couldn't make heads or tells out of what people were saying--even when they were speaking English-- and I had no sense of direction. Fortunately, most things were remedied by time and drinking more water --except the sense of direction—still struggle with that!!  Getting used to driving here has been a whole different story and one I will save for a later post—I promise!!

1976

I don’t know if any of you remember, but there used to be a big billboard on the way into Boise that said “Welcome to Boise!  Set your clock back 17 years!!”  That’s pretty much how it feels here but I think it would probably be more like “Set your clock back 30 years!”  When I was 25 or so, I worked for Global Travel and had the opportunity to take a tour to—the Philippines! Here are some pictures from that trip in 1976 and, other than the very much younger version of me, they could have easily been taken today.

1976-Me doing traditional Philippine dance "Tinikling"

1976

1976-Jeepney--still very much in use!

1976-Carabao or Water Buffalo--the National
Animal of the Philippines 

I have to admit-- I have quite enjoyed the simplicity and slow pace of life here, but in spite of that slow pace—time is actually slipping by very fast. We have already passed the half way mark of our mission—Holy smokes!!  I have considered extending but can’t imagine serving here with anyone other than sweet Sister Robinson and she isn’t feeling the same inclination to extend. 

I continue to feel the Lord’s hand in my life and marvel every day at the tender mercies that are showered so abundantly on us.  I have prayed to see these Philippine people through more Christ-like eyes and my prayers have been answered.  The gospel provides a bridge that closes the gaps in communication and cultural differences in a very short amount of time. I feel such love for these people and their plight. This is a poverty stricken place but there is such hope and faith and determination.  They make the most of what they have and are very quick to acknowledge God’s grace and goodness in their lives. 

                                        


                         I am absolutely loving every part of this amazing experience!

Thanks again for all the prayers, love and support you send my way--it makes a difference! 
I will try to be better about posting on my blog….
Hugs & Love to all,  

Sister Drzayich or “Sister D” as they call me here!

COOKIES!!!

Ok-It seems that every Senior Sister that comes to the Philippines ends up, at some point, being the cookie fairy.  Filipinos  LOVE cookies--especially up here in Laoag where they are not readily available.  The majority of homes here do not have an oven so that makes baking a little difficult.  They do a lot of cooking on stove tops and over wood or charcoal and they love to eat and share what they make.  Most gatherings, baptisms, activities, whatever include some kind of "merienda."  "Merienda is any sort of dish or snack in a portion smaller than the traditional "full meal" which usually includes rice. Common fare may be sweet or savoury, ranging from breads and pastries (notably pandesal), desserts and sweets, street food, to noodle dishes." (Wikipedia)  But, when available, cookies seem to be a real crowd pleaser for young and old alike!  Because both Sister Robinson and I like to bake--we jumped right on the cookie band wagon!  We've taken cookies to baptisms, to our neighbors, to ward members and most recently to all the missionaries we visit as we do our cleaning checks throughout the mission.  Sister Robinson calculated that we have made over 1300 cookies thus far and that is probably on the low side. Wow!  That'll make you tired.  But it is so much fun to see how excited they get when they see cookies on the merienda table. 

This past Saturday, we held a Cookie Baking Activity for our Ward Relief Society at our place.  We had about 11 of all ages in attendance, including our Landlady's two grand daughters.  We were really pleased with the turnout and had a lot of fun doing it.  We demonstrated four different kinds of cookies with some hands on participation which  they really enjoyed. We gave each one a booklet of recipes and sent everyone home with a plate of cookies. We took the remaining cookies to a baptism that was being held later that day.  I have this wonderful vision in my head (from a previous baptism) of our cute little Relief Society President (who is a grandma) holding up a cookie in each hand and doing a happy dance. I was able to recreate that at the activity and hope to be able to download it here!

Couldn't get the video to work so this cute picture will have to do!  Sister Calautit-Laoag Ward 2, Relief Society President!

One of our mission assignments (more on this later) is to travel throughout the mission doing cleaning checks on the missionary apartments/houses.  At first we were going to those apartments that are closest to Laoag but then Pres. and Sis. Peterson asked us to include the Northern side of the mission which would involve some overnight stays.  While we enjoy sharing our thoughts and expertise on keeping a house of cleanliness and order, being the grandmas (in my case-Baba) that we are we wanted to also take them a little grandmotherly love and what better way to do that than with COOKIES!!! Because we had to make the cookies in advance, this weekend has been a cookie making marathon!  From Friday to Monday we made over 30 dozen cookies!  No small feat given the tiny oven that we have to bake in.  I think I have eaten enough cookie dough and cookies since I have been here to last me a lifetime--Ha Ha!

Loading up the cookies in our hotel room!

This just warmed the cockles of our hearts!  Elders each with a cookie in hand giving us the thumbs up!









The tune Tidings of Comfort and Joy just popped into my head with these words and it just seemed appropriate--Ha Ha Ha!!
Cookies of blessings and joy, blessings and joy!  Oohhh cooookies of blessings and joy!

YOU SPEAK HOW MANY LANGUAGES????

The culture here in the Philippines has been greatly influenced by those who have invaded/conquered/collaborated with the country.  The Spanish and US influence have left lasting marks on the traditions, architecture and language.

You can really see the Spanish influence in the historic cobblestone streets
and much of the local architecture in Vigan (southernmost part of our mission)

There is great discussion on what the official language of the Philippines is.  For a time, while under Spanish rule, it was Spanish.  You still hear a lot Spanish influence in the language which is great for me because I understand quite a bit of Spanish.  But there are over 100 (some sources say up to 200) languages still being spoken across the country. Here in Laoag they speak Ilicano. It is not uncommon for Filipinos to speak 3-5 languages. After doing some research, I am still quite confused, but it appears that Filipino (or nationalized Tagolog) is the first language and English is the second.  Almost all understand and speak Tagolog, in addition to their local language, A lot of people understand English but are hesitant to speak it.  As for the missionaries--junior missionaries learn Tagolog in the MTC while senior missionaries are not required to learn Tagolog and are encouraged to help the locals with their English.  All in all--there are many opportunities for miscommunication --you're never quite sure if mutual understanding has been reached but then I guess that is a universal problem--even when you are speaking the exact same language!  It reminds me of the oft misquoted quote--

“I know you think you understand what you thought I said but I'm not sure you realize that what you heard is not what I meant”  Ha Ha! 

I do love listening to them speak--it is beautiful and lyrical--especially when they speak English.   

One of our latest misunderstandings was pretty funny.... We were asking a friend where would be a good place to eat and his reply (we thought) was "Have you ever been to the Heathen Gardens?"  Oh dear-- that doesn't sound like someplace missionaries should be frequenting.  After several repeats, we finally understood that he was saying "Hidden Gardens"  Ha Ha Ha--we got a good laugh out of that one!! Not only did we have a good laugh but we had a wonderful lunch at the beautiful Hidden Garden Restaurant.

It's always an adventure here in the Philippines!  I love it!!!

WASN'T EASTER JUST YESTERDAY?!?!

MY TESTIMONY OF THE SAVIOR

For all of Christendom there is one Savior, one Redeemer, one Prince of Peace--Jesus Christ--the only begotten Son of God. He was born, He lived an exemplary life, He made the ultimate sacrifice for us and was crucified on the cross, but most importantly-He arose from the grave and HE LIVES! Because of his great atoning sacrifice and resurrection, I know peace and joy in this life and have faith and hope in life eternal. How thankful I am that I know Him! May we celebrate and honor our Savior-Jesus Christ- not only today but every day! Our life is His gift to us. What we do with our life is our gift to HIM! 

This is old news but something I've wanted to document.  Our first holiday in the Philippines was Easter.  We had been here for just about a month but were feeling right at home.  Of course, as official representatives of The Church of Jesus Christ,  we are especially interested in promoting His life and teachings.  Easter was the perfect occasion for that!  Sister Robinson and I think so much alike on so many different things--it was easy for us to come up with a way to honor the Savior for Easter.  Jumping off from the church website, we highlighted "Because of Him" which is so appropriate as it is because of Him  that we find ourselves on a mission half way around the world in the Philippines!  We put a sign out for every day of the week. (we hated to take it down!)  We also fashioned Easter baskets out of paper bags (well--really--Sister Robinson did that), made some treats, including Pogacha and Pogacha donuts (a Drzayich tradition) and gave them to our neighbors.                 

Elders Coontz, Santos, Durbin, Crosby

 

                                     
           Elders Levine Ballarta, Lorange, Aquino

          The Hernandos-- Junell, Addilyn, Jameson, Landon, Julie, Kamaile                                                                                                                                                                                                                       

NEW BEGINNINGS

Well-I am feeling pretty racked with guilt right now because I have been so lame about writing on my blog.  The only thing I can say is it seems like the Rip Van Winkle effect has followed me to the Philippines--Ha Ha! I woke up and wondered what happened to the last month--errr-last two months now!!!!!   Ahhh-the joys of getting older! At any rate-- I am resolving, ONCE AGAIN, to do better.

One of the things that has spurred me on is actually an event in the U.S.--the birth of my 12th

grandbaby!  Olive Mary Drzayich was welcomed into Nick and Jess' family on June 9th.  She is their fourth child and weighed in at a whopping 5lb 13oz!! Baby, Mom, Dad, and siblings are all doing great! Needless to say--this has been the hardest event for me to miss thus far.  I'm so very thankful for modern technology that allows me to see her in "real time".  "Real time" also takes on a whole new meaning here in the Philippines with a 12-14 hour time difference! I was anxiously awaiting news of Olive's safe arrival--which I got on Monday the 10th!  I almost put the 10th down as her birth date until it dawned on me that she was actually born on the 9th in the U.S.!!! So hard to keep my days straight-ha ha.  Anyway--can't wait to get my hands on this newest addition to our family.   That makes 6 granddaughters and 6 grandsons for me!  Whoot!  Whoot!



In keeping with my title of "New Beginnings," I thought I would post a little bit about baptisms here.  We try to attend all the baptisms that are reasonably close to us.  We have been here long enough now that we actually know some of the people that are getting baptized.  At any rate, it's always a spiritual uplift.  It is tradition here to have the newly baptized person bear their testimony at the end of the baptismal service--and they all do it!!!  My absolute favorite baptism thus far was the one in Piddig.  It is a small branch that meets in the upstairs of a home-- so no font.  The baptism was preformed in the nearby river--so beautiful!                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

Getting ready to go to the river!  The baptizer, in white, jumped on a motorcycle, the baptizee, in white, got into a tricee with the sister missionaries, we went in a car--it was quite the procession!           

We walked along this wall and down a bamboo ladder to get to the river.

 It was truly beautiful!

WE HAVE A MISSION SONG!

Okay--I have spent an inordinate amount of time trying to figure out how to get this song on my blog!!!  But I just love it and wanted to share it!  It was written, composed and performed by Rachel Andelin, who served in the Philipines Laoag Mission a few years back. Every missionary gets a copy of the words and it is sung often--at Zone Conferences, Training Meetings, missionary arrivals and departures, etc.  Sister Andelin is obviously very talented--we are so lucky to have her inspirational work as an integral part of our mission culture.  In the chorus you hear (or read) "From Vigan's streets to the coast of Santa Ana".  Our mission area is quite large.  From Laoag, where the Mission Home is, it is about an 8 hour drive to the northernmost point--Santa Ana.  And it is about a 2 hour drive to the farthest South--Vigan.  So about 10 hours to drive from North to South and we have been to both ends!

Philippines Laoag Mission Song (Click on this link to hear song--hopefully!)

I hope you can open and listen to it, but just in case, I am including the words.

Verse 1 We made a sacred promise long before this life As we stood in our big family long ago Our hearts were filled with perfect joy to think about the call We yearned to serve our Master with our all Now is the time Here is the place The Lord has already started quick’ning the pace

Chorus Here we are, preaching at the top of the Philippines Giving all we are to hasten His work Yes we know, He uses the weak, simple foolish things But in the strength of Christ success is sure We will cry repentance and shout Hosanna From Vigan’s streets, to the coast of Santa Ana With an eye single to God’s we have a vision Humbly and prayerfully serving Philippines Laoag Mission

Verse 2 As we serve we struggle with weaknesses and doubts And sometimes it seems we cannot do enough But our Savior, he gives us grace, forgiveness, hope, and peace We come to know what his Atonement means Let’s lose ourselves That is Christ’s way Find the beloved sheep that have strayed Chorus

Napigsa tayo, dagiti aqtutubo Adda ti pammati tayo ken ni Apo H’wag matakot, magtiwala Gawin lahat, at ang Diyos ang bahala Piano Solo

Verse 3 And when we reach that big day our souls are overwhelmed Our brothers and sisters dressed in spotless white Who could have guessed the greatest joy is to see a person change? We know we’ve made a difference that’s eternal No greater work No greater need Than to show Christ-like love by action and deed

Verse 4 Someday we’ll reunite with those souls we came to love And in glory we’ll embrace our dearest friends What sweeter words could then be heard than “Thank you, you saved me!” It makes all of the heartache seem nothing Think of that day Have faith and pray Be a clean instrument in God’s hands today!

Chorus

AND THE DAYS GO BY!

Beautiful morning sky at Marcos Stadium

I have been asked what our days look like--what do we do? As I have mentioned before--we are not required to keep a set schedule and we like to remain open and flexible to the varying opportunities that arise. We have gotten into a bit of a routine but our days seem to vary quite a bit. We are both usually up by 6:00AM, give or take 30 minutes. Neither of us sets an alarm. Sunrise is around 5:30AM. For the past couple of weeks, I have been going for an early walk (before it gets too hot and before the streets are too congested). Sis. Robinson would like to join me but she has had a hip replacement and is probably due for another one when we get back. Even though she never complains, I know it is quite bothersome to her so I usually slip out by myself. I feel very safe when I go and like being out as the city comes to life. I really enjoy walking the neighborhoods as I see things in much more detail than when we are driving. People are out walking their dogs, sweeping the streets in front of their places, opening up the small stores that are attached to many of the homes, and watering the many potted plants that adorn their houses. There is a stadium nearby (Marcos Stadium) and I usually end up walking the track there.

Typical early morning basketball game
at Marcos Stadium

 I often run into the elders at the Stadium as they get in some running time or a pick up basketball game. Since I started writing this, Sister Robinson ventured out with me one morning last week! We didn’t walk too far but it was very nice to have company! We shall see what the future holds!  As light skinned Americans, we are really in the minority here. Fortunately, Filipinos, for the most part, like and respect Americans and missionaries so we are usually held in high regard. Children are especially interested and just stare and stare at us. It is very different to be sure, but a smile and nod or “good morning” are great equalizers and are almost always enthusiastically returned.

After that--it’s get dressed and ready for the day! We are ever so grateful for the small and simple things like hot water in the bathroom and kitchen and adequate water pressure to actually take a shower instead of pouring a bucket of water over us!  Not many have those luxuries here. 

Our landlord's grandson getting a bath in the courtyard!

We thankfully did our research before we came and made sure we had hair dryers and curling irons that run on the different voltage here. It has been pretty smooth sailing as far as that goes. Phones and the internet are a whole different story! A LOT of time has been spent trying to get our phones set up and then trying to understand the local phone service and the “plan” we are on. The Kartchners and our neighbor, Junell Hernando, have been great help on those fronts!

We have been trying to have companion study time each day and have been loving going through the Come Follow Me manual and reading the scriptures together. We have some very inspirational conversations and thoroughly enjoy learning together!  

Some days we go in to the mission office to help with different tasks that are being done. Most of these tasks are connected to Zone Conferences or transfers or Leadership Training. We love being there to interact with the missionaries and office sisters--Sister Cox and Sister Snyder--who are both delightful. Sister Peterson has also asked us to help out with an English program that is offered for the Filipino missionaries. We have spent quite a bit of time setting that up and figuring out how to best track the progress of each missionary. We still don’t have all the information we need but are slowly getting it figured out.

We go to the market or different stores two or three times a week. We usually drive our car but once in a while we take a tricee as the parking everywhere is very limited. Shopping here is always an adventure as you never know if you will find what you need. And if you do find what you’re looking for, it may or may not taste like you think it will. We have four or five places that we frequent the most. One of them is Robinsons Supermarket located in the Robinsons Mall.  As if being American missionaries isn't enough, walking in with someone who has “Robinson” on their name tag is like instant celebrity. Darlene just smiles and says she wishes she could offer everyone a discount--ha ha! It’s great!

Open Market in downtown Laoag.  This is the
3rd floor where meats and vegetables are sold.
We don't go there much as the smell is -well-pungent!
The second floor is clothing and goods.
We usually just buy fruit there which is on street level.

We make a pretty good team when it comes to mealtime. I love to bake and try new things and Darlene is an excellent cook. We have a nice big place with a table that accommodates 8-10 people and we have enjoyed fixing dinner for the elders and the other senior missionaries and friends. We try to space our dinner's out a bit as we have a tiny oven, limited cooking utensils, and are always having to improvise with the food we have available--plus we're trying to stick to a budget!! But it’s been fun and I think we’ve turned out some decent meals for ourselves and others! We also love to deliver baked goods to the elders and sisters and they very much appreciate it!!! We have so enjoyed our interactions with our neighbor elders!

We had 4 April birthdays so we made a cake,
fixed chicken divan, twice baked potatoes,
and honey lime fruit salad--YUM!!!!

Our birthday dinner guests--Sis. Cox, Sis Snyder,
Elder Kartchner, Sis. Kartchner,  Norma

Our friend Steve Maximo and his son Jaestee (forefront) made dinner for us!
Richard & Kathy Kartchner and Norma (Tagalog  teacher) joined us.

We had the Elders and two ward members for chicken fajitas one night.
Elder Clark, Elder Durbin, GG, Elder Levine, Sis. D., Humphrey, Elder Lorange

We often attend weekly District Meetings with the Kartchners and really enjoy meeting with the young missionaries in their districts and hearing of their progress and challenges. We continue to be so impressed with all of them! Every time we return from one of those meetings we give thanks for these enthusiastic young Elders & Sisters and we also give thanks that we do not have to be out in the heat for 8-9 hours a day walking dusty streets and returning home to a hot apartment! If we spend an hour outside it almost always results in an early bedtime--the heat is just draining-- especially for us old folks. Awwww youth!!! Anyway we are ever so grateful for an air conditioned car AND apartment! Wow!!!

District Meeting in Paoay

When we find ourselves with free time on our hands, we like to jump in the car and explore the surrounding area.  I'll have to include more on that in a future post.  We also watch a movie on Netflix every now and then--like I said, serving a mission as a senior is very different!!  We are always mindful and prayerful that we will be guided and directed in doing the Lord's work in whatever way we can! So far, the missionary lifestyle suits us just fine!