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!