Week 58 Lots of Flowers in Japan

 Hello all,

Another week brings even more beautiful flowers blooming in Japan. Cherry blossoms have given way to all the colorful azaleas that are everywhere. Elder Nelson's camera can't resist them...even while riding a bus. 

We have tried most modes of transportation here. Our best find was learning how to ride the bus. The seats are kind of small for prominent Americans, but it's all part of the experience. It's really very simple to get on and off with the phone app for all transportation here. We have even had a few conversations with our fellow riders while we wait for the bus. Most are intrigued by our name tags, and because Elder Nelson speaks their language, it often leads to other chit chat. I just smile and nod a lot. 

Our first picture is from last week because we forgot to post it. Elder Lund from the Men's General Board of the church came to our sacrament meeting, and we snapped a picture. He and his wife were very kind, and it was fun talking to them. 

This week started with us teaching 10 high school students early morning seminary. That meant we needed to walk to the high school, but one of the branch members offered to give us a ride. We politely obliged, but we did walk home. We always enjoy teaching the youth. It starts at 6:30, so it takes a few minutes for them to wake up, but we had some good discussions. And of course, we ended with banana bread on Monday and cinnamon rolls on Tuesday. Seminary ends on May 15th, so that was our last opportunity to teach seminary. 

The rest of Monday was spent baking treats for the coffee cart the Red Cross provides at the medical clinic. With all of that baking, cooking dinner was set aside. Instead, we visited our local conbini (small convenience market) and found some mabutofu, one of my favorites. Local conbini's are amazing here. No YSA's this week, but looking forward to this week with them. 

On Tuesday, we taught seminary again and then headed to the train station for our temple assignment. Last week, the train trip was pretty nice, and we even got a seat. This week, the trains were totally packed. You stand very still with your hands to your side, and the only thing that keeps you from falling down when the train swerves is all the other people surrounding you who are holding you up. Kind of like being a Weeble if you remember those toys. When the train comes to a stop, the doors open, and sometimes people get off and more get on. Always crazy when no one gets off, but more people still get on. Really? where is there room for more? And it's all part of the experience. Just not my favorite part. 

On Wednesday, I helped out in the Red Cross office while Elder Nelson taught another class on Family History at the library. He has enjoyed helping others make connections with their family lines. The classes have been fundamental introductory classes, and we are grateful that the library gives us a place to meet. 

The afternoon was spent with more volunteering at the clinic and Army Community Service. That's our regular gig on Wednesday afternoons. We enjoy the people we volunteer with, and we try to set a good example of service to others. It took us a while to get our foot in the door at ACS, and so it has been nice to work with them. 

Thursday, we had the young sisters come with us to the thrift store on base. It is entirely run by volunteers from the high school PTA. We came to help with cleaning and straightening, and putting out new things that have been donated. We hope to continue assisting each Thursday as our schedule allows. The young missionaries are asked to find a few hours each week to volunteer, so it's an excellent place for them, too. This week is transfer week, so we may have some different missionaries with us next time. 

Friday was district council at the chapel, so we packed lunch for 14 people and rode a bus, then a train, then a taxi to get there. One of the elders asked for pulled pork sandwiches on  King's Hawaiian rolls, so we took that and some pasta salad and fruit. When I brought out the rolls, the elder couldn't believe it. He said he didn't think he would see those rolls until he went home. He doesn't really understand how the commissary has just about everything we need. Such a blessing. Sis Melton also spoiled them with Easter chocolates and brownie cookies. They do not go away hungry.

That night was "date night," and Elder Nelson chose to take me to a nice Mexican restaurant here called Mikes. We have been there before. It is owned by an American who knows how to make good Mexican food, and sometimes you just need that. Their chips are made warm and fresh, and the guacamole is amazing. 

Saturday, we signed up for a tour group with the Meltons  that took us to see a Sumo tournament in Yokohama. I wasn't really sure what we were going to see. Sumo competitions are steeped in tradition and rituals. The pre-show is as interesting as the wrestling. The actual wrestling matches are usually only about 30 seconds to a minute long. As soon as someone steps out of the ring, it is over. Elder Nelson got some great pictures, and it was fun to see some of the culture of Japan. And on our way home, we train traveled to the Outback, then home.

We are officially one month away from taking the driving exam. I was pretty worried about all the walking, but we have enjoyed the exercise, and it hasn't been as hard as we thought. Even when we drag the wagon, it's been just fine. Hoping our feet hold up for another month. 

We also hope all our friends and family are well. We hear from the girls regularly and see pictures of the antics of the grandkids and Bret keeps us challenged with a weekly study of Christ-like qualities. We are grateful for all the love and support from so many. 

The church is true, and life is beautiful in Japan. 

Love to all, 

Elder and Sister Nelson