Updates From The Outback

Project Update

2009-06-15T13:29:00.000-07:00

For those who may be confused by these June blogs, we are home. Our mission finished on May 05. Things have been hectic and busy so I am taking the time now to catch up on past blogs. I hope to post one or more a day until I bring the blogs up to date.

We have finished the alphabet, phonics, and English lessons for the Aboriginal people. They were created from Power Points with animation and voice. There are many schools and agencies interested in using the DVDs when they become available. Sister Lovegrove and Sister Wood were transferred back to Alice Springs to finish up the project. It was quite a job, but they did it. After Sister Lovegrove finished the final voicing and Sister Wood finished the final checking, they rendered the Power Points to video, and then to DVD. The purpose of this format is to allow teachers and community members, to teach in a simple interesting manner, and then allow the students to learn and and practice at home.Thanks to the Sisters and many volunteers who aided in this process.

Here we are at dinner with Ann Roberts, a wonderful educator and volunteer. She piloted the project for us in Alcoota and provided valuable feedback and help.

Sights and Sounds of Sydney Early May 2009

2009-05-12T15:27:00.000-07:00

We spent three exciting days in Sydney. Elder and Sister Warby gave us a whirl wind tour and we had a great time .They treated us like their best friends even though this was the first time we had met in person. We had corresponded and called Elder Warby numerous times as he was in charge of publicity for Australia and he had been following the Literacy Project.

Saying Good-bye in Adelaide

2009-05-11T20:02:00.000-07:00

We had a great time touring and visiting with Tanya Wells after we left Alice Springs. She took us on a fast tour of some great places in Adelaide. We visited the ocean and the zoo and toured the city. We share a special friendship with Tanya, who joined the Church about two years ago. She is a wonderful person whose life has been changed forever and in turn who has enthusiastically shared the Gospel with more people I can remember. We should all do as well.

Friends to Remember

2009-04-26T15:43:00.000-07:00

The Bird Mob surprised us with this traditional dot painting. The Birds are dear friends and well known for their dot paintings.They are an amazing family and are so important to the missionary effort in Alice Springs.

Mari Clay and I display a painting we hired her to do for us of the Tree of Life. She and her sister Colleen are very talented artists.

Dinner at Elder Jackson was a nice farewell. They are a great family. They will be leaving for India where Elder Jackson will become the mission president.

Here we are saying good-bye to Ping, one of our Chinese English students. We wish him and his family well.

Kings Canyon

2009-04-25T19:20:00.000-07:00

We also took a trip to Kings Canyon which was quite beautiful. I took the half mile stroll done the shady river bank and Jim took the 3 hour hike on the boiling ridge. Go figure.

Trip to Ularu

2009-04-23T19:28:00.000-07:00

April 20, 2009: Before we left Alice Springs we decided we had to see Ularu, the largest monolith in the world. It is a sacred spot for many Aboriginal people. We had a fascinating tour. The weather wasn’t too hot, but the flies were quite thick, but we had nets.

The Last Zone Conference

2009-04-12T10:40:00.000-07:00

The Zone conferences are all very inspirational and have taught us a great deal. There is no doubt that a large measure of the success this mission has had is due to the excellence of the Zone conferences provided by President and Sister Quinn as well as the Assistants to the Presidents. Thanks for their love and leadership. They have been a blessing to so many people. Thanks also to the Elders and the Bogadahls for the privilege of know and serving with them. It has been great to watch the District grow from four Elder and one couple to what is it is now.

A Tribute to Norma Gibby

2009-04-09T05:19:00.000-07:00

Richelle, by sister Lisa's daughter, recently wrote this tribute to my mother, Norma Gibby. With Mother's Day approaching, I thought it a great time to post the tribute. We are all so very grateful for her life and legacy, and love her very much.

Left to right: Richelle, Christina, Laura, Lisa, Lynda, Mom (Grandma)

"My Grandma, My hero

Norma Gibby is my grandmother and my hero. I have never known someone so strong, optimistic, and lovely. My grandmother has always been the rock in our family. She never fails to have a smile on her face and her faith is unwavering.

Norma was born in Basin Idaho and lived there until she was three years old. She moved several times throughout her life. Some of the places she has lived include Burley Idaho, Highland Park California, Glendale California, Provo Utah, Fullerton California and Mission Viejo California.

When Norma was only ten years old, her mother passed away. Norma and her older sister were left to tend their younger siblings and learn how to cook, clean, iron, etc. When asked how she was able to cope and get through this trial she said that she was "born brave" and she just did what she had to do. Life didn't get any easier when Norma's father passed away a few years later when she was 16 years old. She was forced to support herself and her sister financially and emotionally. After lots of hard work and dedication Norma and her sister bought their first home in California for 7,000 dollars.

Norma has worked everywhere from the ice cream parlor to being a "lead girl" and building fuel tanks for airplanes. Wherever she worked, she was always in a leadership position, either as a manager or a supervisor.

When Norma was 22 years old she married the man of her dreams, Delbert Gibby.Del wrote her poems and letters from the day they met up until the end of his life.Their love was rare and beautiful. They moved to Utah and Del got his college degree at Brigham Young University. After having a few children, they moved back to Glendale California where Del taught for a few years before they settled in Fullerton California for 18 years. Not only did she have four children of her own to look after but Norma ran a daycare out of her home where she tended several kids at a time. After their children were grown Norma and her husband moved to Mission Viejo California, where they lived for the next 20 years until Del passed away from Cancer. Norma then moved to Laguna Nigel and has lived there for the past 6 years.

I was pretty sure I already knew what her answer would be when I asked my grandma what she values most in her life. She has always made it known that the most important things to her are her family and her membership in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Norma loves her life right now. She feels a lot of gratitude for her posterity and for the great people she is blessed to spend her time with. When she looks back on the her life she can't believe how fast the years have gone.

When I was given this assignment, the first person that popped into my head was my sweet Grandma. At 86 years of age she has this love for life that I cannot describe. She sees the beauty in everything and the good in everyone. Grandma spends her time cheering up friends and neighbors and doing little acts of service for those in need. She has made it a goal to ask herself what she can do for someone else everyday.She possesses a love that is pure and Christlike.

Her trials have made her stronger and she has made it through the most challenging of times because of her strength and courage . She has taught me how to be resilient.She has taught me how to be grateful. She has taught me how to love.When i think of her I cant help but think of the lyrics to her favorite song "I hope you dance"....

I hope you never lose your sense of wonder
You get your fill to eat
But always keep that hunger
May you never take one single breath for granted
God forbid love ever leave you empty handed
I hope you still feel small
When you stand by the ocean
Whenever one door closes, I hope one more opens
Promise me you'll give faith a fighting chance

I hope you dance.

Norma Gibby has danced through life. Always finding joy in the journey. An inspiration to me and everyone around her"

Emily Gap Baptisms

2009-04-08T21:08:00.000-07:00

The missionaries in Alice Springs Zone are working hard to bring the Gospel to outlying areas where some the Aboriginal population lives. They have no transportation in to town so the Church is taken to them. They have church services and baptisms in their own communities surrounded by friends and family. They are changing their lives for the better. One of the communities they are working in is called Amoonguna.In April they had their first baptismal service for this community in a beautiful place called Emily’s Gap. Congratulations to the Elders and Elders and Sister Bogadehl for their hard work and success.
You may enjoy this YouTube link for a video of these baptisms: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8JqDidX_cE

Zone Conferences

2009-03-13T05:02:00.000-07:00

One of the best parts of this mission has been Zone Confernces. It's always wonderful to see President and Sister Quinn, but more than that, their talks and presentations are always masterful and inspirational. They give us the spiritual lift and the instruction we need when we need it. Another thing that never ceases to amaze us is the talks the other missionaries give. The Elders share wisdom and leadership well beyond their years. The spirit is strong and the talks are inspired.

We are looking forward to seeing them again this weekend. Elder Baxter, the area president, will be here as well and we will be privileged to hear from him.

Flies

2009-03-11T21:55:00.000-07:00

I never paid attention in science class when I was younger, or I would be able to more fully appraise you of the differences in various species of flies. However, because of experiences in both America and Australia with flies I can share a little information on them.
American flies are generally smarter, or at least, have a different level of intelligence when it comes to their desire to survive the hatred of mankind. Whenever I swat at a fly in America it will tend to buzz away for a few minutes and plan a different mode of attack. However, in Australia, whenever a member of the the fly population discovers a human being he immediately goes after recruits that will perform suicide attacks until their foe has either gone completely mad or escaped into a fly proof building or automobile. They don’t bite. They seem to be perfectly harmless, except that they will continue their attack until they are killed or manage to enter your various bodily openings, such as nose, ear, mouth, etc. They sacrifice themselves by the thousands with just one goal in mind...the insanity of the entire human race within the Continent of Australia, one person at a time. They are slightly faster than the American fly, and according to Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution may be a completely different species, because they are only 93.7 percent the size of their American counterpart, and do not breed, but definitely reproduce by spontaneous generation.

It is probable that nothing is entirely bad, and so it is with Australian flies. They have made me, and others, much friendlier. You see, they have created a reflex in most Australians and visitors to the Continent wherein they are constantly waving as they walk or drive down the street. Although it may be assumed that we are merely swatting at flies, if someone waves as they are passing you by, even if you are enclosed within the safety of your car, it is a normal reflex to wave back. It is amazing how many friends Sister Shumway and I have made just because someone thought we were giving them a friendly greeting. I guess it doesn’t hurt to let others think that the grimace on your face is really a friendly smile, rather than a valiant attempt to keep from inhaling those abhorrent creatures and choking to death, and the wave of the hand is a futile effort to make them fly a few extra feet before they return to crawl up your nose.
Some of our good friends who spend most of their day sitting out in the sunshine dreaming of eating another kangaroo have developed the ability of completely ignoring the little monsters. I don’t know how they do it, but I certainly envy them.
When we first came to Australia we were warned to “beware the poisonous spiders and snakes.” We have been here for 15 months and have yet to see a poisonous snake, and the few spiders we have seen were far less ugly than the good old American Black Widow. But no one warned us to “beware the flies.” I will miss the many friends I have waved at, but never spoken too when we leave this beautiful country. I will not miss being able to breath without inhaling the little creatures that surely must be the devil's angels.

Literacy Bags Get a Home

2009-03-09T20:10:00.000-07:00

Sandover Schools serves thirteen out bush schools. They are working on a program to teach parents how to share books with their children so that they all can learn about the joys of reading. They will be using our literacy bags. A hired Aboriginal Literacy Aid will visit the homes in the communities on a weekly basis.
Eric Frater, from the Sydney area, organized a project for collecting materials that will be used for the activities in the literacy bags. He delivered four boxes to Elder Warby in Sydney who sent them down to Blanding. From there, they were delivered to Sandover Schools. Thanks so much to all that were involved.

Project Moving Forward

2009-02-27T18:28:00.000-08:00

We are moving ahead with the literacy project most of you are aware of. We have a powerful opportunity with Cheri Forbes, Sport and Recreation Director for the Central Desert Shire. She has helped us set up a pilot in Ti Tree (an outbush community) that is a ground up approach, using some of her staff, existing facilities, and volunteers .We spent three days there, (building in lower right hand corner) met with the Shire Council and CEO, and trained some staff (remaining pictures). Once successful, she wants to bring in other agencies, schools, funding bodies, and eventually offer the model to other shires throughout the NT. She has made contact with a funding body that has expressed willingness to fund reproduction of our materials, staff, facilities, training, etc. for other Central Desert Shire communities when we are ready to move ahead on a larger scale. They are planning to build family learning centers in many communities and think our materials would be a great addition to these centers. Cherie’s husband is also very supportive. He is working for a large funding body for Aboriginal affairs. They will prove to be wonderful champions for the project
Ann Roberts, former principal of Alcoota, is now working with 70 out bush schools. She is very supportive as a volunteer for voicing the Power Points and is eager to promote the project to the areas where she has influence.
We feel that we have produced materials that could be of lasting benefit to the Aboriginal community and possibly many others. With help from Sisters Lovegrove and Woods, we have completed writing and voicing Alphabet, Phonics 1, Early Reading, and English Conversation DVDs. We are just completing the voicing on Phonics 2 and still need to voice Basic English am about half way through with writing the phonetic explicit teaching approach to Ye Shall Have My Words. It also will need to be voiced. We have written and produced a comprehensive tutor training DVD with a tutor packet that includes assessment, tracking, instruction guides and teaching aids, as well as an introduction to the program DVD. Our literacy bags are being used by the missionaries out bush and we are planning to introduce them to the Ti Tree pilot project.
We are working out the kinks, and feel we will have a professional, user-friendly product when finished. At that point we hope to be able to mass produce them and make them widely available to participants in the project. There is a new senior couple here, the Bogadahls, who will be able to help carry on with the project when we are gone, though they will not be involved in the production. Please keep us in your prayers there is a lot to get done in the nine weeks we have left.

The Tragic Fires of Victoria AU

2009-02-13T21:42:00.000-08:00

Our hearts and prayers go out to the victims of this devastating rampage of fires and the country of Australia. Though it is more than a thousand miles away, we strongly feel the loss and sadness of this tragedy.

Let's Catch Up!

2009-01-21T23:23:00.000-08:00

December flew by as we busily worked on the project, taught English classes, had zone baptisms and celebrated Christmas.

The Branch put on a most inspirational program, A Tribute to Christ. Elder Shumway sang once with Elder Harding and once with Brother Taumololo. They did a great job. Several of our English students and a recent convert came.

The Branch threw quite a Christmas Party: lots of friends, fun, and food. The weather was beautiful (not too hot!)

We were invited to the Alcoota School Christmas Program/awards ceremony/barbeque. We had a great time and the kids put on quite a program.

In late November Pahou, from New Zealand was baptized. It was great to watch his transformation. Five members of the Neal family were baptized a few days later. They were excited to learn about and join the Church.

The Holidays

2008-12-26T03:50:00.000-08:00

Our Zone Conference was inspirational and Zone Christmas dinner delicious. We always look forward to President and Sister Quinn's visits.Thanks for all your work, Sister Marriott.

Christmas Day:
Christmas morning the Elders and Sisters got together at our flat. We exchanged gifts and the Elders opened their packages from home. We had a great time and lots of laughs. Our neighbors, Al and Jan came over for a visit and brought us coaters from Sydney.

Then we went to the McCreary’s for our Christmas Day Water Fight. I saw that they had filled large regular balloons and got hit with one. I knew right then the fight wasn’t for me. The rest of them all survived and Sister Wood, Alison, baby, and I enjoyed the entertainment.

The New Zealanders in our Branch had a large Christmas Party at the Church. All the missionaries were invited. We all had lots of good food, good company, and good memories.

We are very blessed. We also got to share our family's Christmas through phone calls and blogs.

Christmas Message

2008-12-23T01:10:00.000-08:00

We would like to share the following Christmas message with our friends and loved ones. It is taken from the First Presidency Message in the Friend. December 1972.

“When Jesus was born on that holy night long ago, our Heavenly Father’s love was showered upon the people of the earth. He sent His greatest of all gifts, His Only Begotten and Beloved Son, so that we all may someday return to our heavenly home. The best way we can show our love for Him is to live His teachings and to obey His commandments, for He said, ‘If ye love me, keep my commandments.’

At this special time of year may you feel the joy of Christmas, remembering Jesus as you see the lights of Christmas, as you sing the music of Christmas, and as you sense the hurry and busyness of Christmas. May love be mirrored in your hearts as you reach out and give of yourself with love to all those around you.”

We love you all and wish you a very Merry Christmas.
Love, Elder and Sister Shumway

2008 Shumway Family Christmas Letter

2008-12-23T00:53:00.000-08:00

December 23, 2008
Dear people who still remember who we are:
At one point in my life I had big dreams of putting San Juan County on a strict financial budget, but I don’t think many people supported my views of “saving for a rainy day”. After that dream disappeared I signed up to save Australia from its spiritual demise. Interestingly, I have found the people in this country to be very tolerant of my religious views, but have been advised not to share my conservative politics with anyone. I suspect that is a good thing. My lovely wife and I have found joy in the work, and are contemplating signing up for another 18 month tour of duty. Since we no longer watch TV and basically only have one topic of discussion we are kind of out of touch with the rest of the world. However, we trust that since our departure from the USA just over a year ago, that the economy is none the worse for wear and the Republicans are still in control.

Sister Shumway wants me to share a little information about the “Literacy Project” we are involved in. About March of 2008, she had this idea that we should develop a program to help some of our aboriginal friends to learn to read and speak English. That was good, but being a little bit crazy, she wrote a grant which the Church accepted and funded. That was good, except that the proposal she wrote would normally take MIT seven years to develop, using an entire department of resources full time. President Quinn felt sorry for her and so he sent her two wonderful sisters to help in the project. Since that time we have been working 24/7 (well, almost) to put out a product that is really exciting. Several influential groups, such as Charles Darwin University, Sandover Schools and Central Desert Shire have reviewed it and are very excited about its potential as they begin utilization of the new resource. We will all be very pleased when we can quit sitting at our computers day and night and once again have a life. Next time Sister Shumway has a big idea she can hire a hundred employees or divorce me. Her choice, but I know which one I would pick. Sister Shumway adds: We have been greatly blessed by the Lord and he has sent us what we need, when we have needed it, including help from back home with some wonderful literacy bags, toys, supplies, etc. God has helped and guided us through the process.
I would like to share a few irrelevant minor points of interest;
Camel tastes a lot like stringy beef, kangaroo tastes better when cooked with the hide still on and the innards still in, but even then it somehow reminds me of a pet rabbit, and crocodile tastes like chicken going bad.
We have yet to find any poisonous spiders or snakes that are less fearful of us, than we are of them. However, I am happy to report that while I was out bush in a little Aboriginal community I accidentally stepped on a toy snake and it made me scream like a boy from San Francisco.
Whenever we approach most of the people here they reply “She’ll be alright, mate”, or “no worries, mate”. At first this “mate” thing really bothered me, but as time goes by I find it rather pleasant to have so many “mates”.
Our children are far away and have discovered that they really don’t need us. That’s ok, because it costs way too much to send Christmas presents from Australia. I believe we are experiencing double savings as we faithfully serve here in the outback. #1, we aren’t spending anything on Christmas and #2, we trust that the investments we made in the stock market a year ago are growing exponentially while we are away.
During the summer in Alice Springs, it is very hot. During the winter in Alice Springs, it is less hot. It is now summer and Christmas will be slightly over 100 degrees. Merry Christmas to all, especially to those of you who have seen snow in the last two years.
After an intense 18 months as missionaries, Sister Shumway wants to go back home and teach for a few more years. I committed to apply for a job as a Wal-Mart greeter, but she put her foot down; so I guess I am just going to go home and be “a kept man.” She will soon learn that I have rather expensive tastes, but I guess that is what Social Security is for.
Well, May, the month we are being required to return to reality is fast approaching, and we have much to do, and so without any further deep thoughts we wish you a Merry Christmas and a happy new year.
Love,
Jim and Lynda Shumway
P. S. Laura is enjoying some great successes in the school where she teaches. From our perspective, 10,000 miles away, her sweet children Christina, Jared and Analisa are very close to perfect. Mike has made and lost about one million dollars this year, but he still has the best band in Utah and he’s on his way to his second million. Lisa and Shawn are very happy in their new home in Michigan. Their marriage is very blessed with 2 beautiful children. Shawn is busy making a living. He spends a lot of time with his work in Europe. I’m sure this helps to hold their happy marriage together. Arah had her tonsils removed about December 17th. I’ll bet Steve enjoyed a few days of blissful silence. Arah’s wonderful mother-in-law took good care of her and their perfect son Gavin for several days. Then Lisa surprised them one morning, knocking on their door. She came to take over those responsibilities and to get even for the way Arah had helped to paint Lisa’s new home. Arah started feeling so much better that she will probably be able to eat soft jell-o by Christmas morning. Julee and Zeb added a lovely little daughter to their family in October. With now having a boy and a girl I think they are happy with life. Ayden is a handsome blonde haired boy whose complexion is a lot like his mothers, but Siarah Lynn is rather dark complected and looks a lot like her dad, except that she is beautiful. We can hardly wait to see all of our wonderful grandchildren and look forward to most of them and their parents meeting us in Hawaii in May. The parents are coming along so that when the grandchildren get tired and grumpy someone will be there to take them off our hands.
Keep the faith, and if you are thinking about sending best wishes, or anything like that, skip the thought and just send money.
Love again,
Jim and Lynda

The Literacy Project Moves Ahead

2008-12-03T23:06:00.000-08:00

Unforunately, these boys don't go to school (long story.) They do come by our flat on a regular basis and get some help with our literacy materials.
There are some wonderful things happening with the project, many of DVDs finished, networking has begun, and production is continuing. I will post a detailed blog on the subject next week.

Thanksgiving in Alice.

2008-12-03T22:00:00.000-08:00

All twelve missionaries were invited to a wonderful American Thanksgiving dinner. The Jacksons and the Bartons put it together for us, complete with decorations, turkeys, pies, and all the trimmings.

We all pitched in on food, but the Jacksons and the Bartons prepared the bulk of the dinner. This was the first Thanksgiving dinner I haven't cooked since I can remember. We followed with fun and games and a chance to share what we are thankful for. It was a Thanksgiving to remember.

The missionaries were sooo excited about the meal. Here Elder Harding assures us that he's just getting started. He was! The second plate was close to the first.....and then desert.....!

This is quite a crew!

Time for pie!

The next day we used Skype video conference so we could share a portion of the Utah Thanksgiving with the family there. We loved that everyone could get together and we could be a brief part of it. We have much to be thankful for.

Hellos

2008-12-03T21:19:00.000-08:00

Great things are happening in Alice! We got FOUR additional missionaries, putting the grand total at twelve. You are probably wondering why. First we had already gotten the sister missionaries to help with the project and now 2 missionaries, Elder Edgar and Elder Robbins are reopening Tennant Creek, a largely aboriginal community of about 5,000 people that once had hundreds of members. Along with Elder Robbins came Elders Porter, Bakewell, and Harding. With this increase in Alice Springs, much more time can be devoted to the out bush areas without neglecting Alice Springs.
President and Sister Marriott, and their daughter, Sister Stein, and her husband, had all the missionaries to the chapel for a pancake supper. I’m not really a pancake fan, but these were from a New Zealand recipe with a wide choice of toppings: fresh strawberries, fruit, jam, real maple syrup, whipped cream, ice cream, or sugar and lemon juice. It was quite a delicious meal, only to be topped by Presidents Marriott’s inspired message to us afterwards and a moving testimony meeting. We all feel very honored and blessed to be here, doing what we are doing, at this time.

Good- Byes

2008-12-03T20:11:00.000-08:00

Here is our last mission picture with Elder VanderDoes. One thing that you can always count on, especially on a mission, is change. It seems there are always difficult good-byes. We remember at these times, how blessed we have been to know and associate with such fine young men. We hope they will always consider us family and continue to stay in touch. We wish them the best life has to offer.

Saying good-bye to Elder VanderDoes as he goes to his last transfer. The Bird mob came to say good-bye too. He's home now.

Alison, Chris and the baby came along too. They mean a great deal to all of us.

Elder Collet came back with his parents to say good-bye to all of us. It was wonderful to see him again and meet his parents.

The Bartons, Jacksons, and missionaries got together at Chris and Alison's for a Family Home Evening Send Off for Elder Collet.

Not One, Not Two, But Three Times!

2008-11-21T02:04:00.000-08:00

They say if you see the Todd River flow three times, you'll be a permanent resident. We have had some amazing rain. An yes, we've seen it flow three times! Notice the kayak. You don't see that everyday down the Todd. We love the rain because it keeps the temperature down and greens everything up.

Zone Conference

2008-11-05T18:17:00.000-08:00

We had yet another inspirational zone conference last month. We look forward to each visit. President Quinn is a truly inspired leader and Sister Quinn is a wonderful support. We are blessed to have such great mission leaders. Pres. Quinn spent some extra time with us on the project. He gave us some wonderful counsel and direction; and as a result things are moving along very well.
He shared with us a video called “Celebrate What’s Right with the World,” an inspiring piece by a photographer for National Geographic. It’s full to fantastic shots and great thoughts. We watched it again later the next day. I would like to share a few quotations from it that might be beneficial to you, as they were for us. If you want all the notes, let me know and I’ll email them.
“We all have teachers, mentors who show us what’s possible.”
“I won’t see it until I believe it.”
“The more I believed, the more I would see it.”
“We live in an ever-changing possibility curve; perhaps we can’t control it, but we can learn to ride it…. How open to possibility does our perception allow us to be?”
“Vision controls our perception. Perception controls our reality.”
“As I celebrated what’s right with the world, I began to see how to transform the ordinary into something exceptional.”
“By celebrating the best, we are allowed to fall in love with it.”
“We should not strive to be the best in the world, but the best for the world.”

Recent Highlights

2008-10-29T18:46:00.000-07:00

These young boys come by our flat regularly. They are recent converts. They love to sit down and use some of the phonics programs we have written. Here they are watching “The Sounds of Alice,” a photo story for teaching phonics written by Sister Lovegrove.
The Alice Springs Branch held a very successful Multi-Cultural Night a few weeks ago. Besides local people from Alice Springs and out bush, and of course the U.S., we had people from New Zealand, Tonga, China, Korea, and the Philippines. Everyone brought a pot luck dish from their country. Many shared talents and information about their native land. Below, a New Zealand war dance is being performed.
Some of us are checking out a live witchity grub. No one had the courage to eat it.
Some of my English students came with friends and family. They seemed to enjoy themselves.

The Literacy Project

2008-10-23T05:53:00.000-07:00

We are working hard to complete all the new literacy programs. I had a second trip to Alcoota School. The principal and one of the teachers spent one of their vacation days there to learn about the phonics, literacy bags and other materials we are sharing with them." This is a good test of the materials. Last time I checked with the principal, she was extremely pleased with the way things were working and "filling in the holes" for the students.

Storm in Alice

2008-10-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

An amazing storm hit Alice with no warning at all a few weeks ago. We were without power for two days, but fortunately no one was injured.

Lots of trees were uprooted or blown over and clean up crews were busy for days. A few of the trees hit cars, houses, fences, and powerlines.
Hail and wind pound the parking lot in front of our flat.

A sister in our branch was driving down the street with a friend when the storm hit so she decided to pull over and wait it out. No sooner did she stop than a thought came very distinctly to her and she repeated it to her friend, "Something is telling me to move forward." She did so immediately, as her friend looked back. A huge piece of twisted metal sheeting came flying through the exact spot she had just moved from. The Lord can save us so much trouble in our lives when we listen to him. If he says to move forward, move forward.

A Trip to Alcoota School

2008-09-21T05:31:00.000-07:00

On Friday, September 20, we drove to Alcoota to introduce our project to the principal. The experience proved to be yet another example of how the hand of God works in our lives.
We met some amazing staff: the principal, Ann Roberts, Roshanna, and Margo. On our tour, the first things I noticed as I entered the primary classroom were two large phonics charts. I told Ann how impressed I was and she said that she knows how important phonics are, but she hasn’t been able to get the money to have the teachers trained and get materials. Then I showed them my phonics program and she was thrilled. She loved the Magic Letters and the Alice Alphabet. I converted all the Power Points to shows that were compatible with their Office 2003 and she had me copy them to the server so that they could be accessed by all the computers in the school.
The secondary classroom has a state-of-the-art whiteboard with a touch screen connection to the computer that projects onto it. She said that they are getting one in the primary room as well. She plans to project the shows we gave her for group work and have the children work individually on the laptops they have, and are getting. She said she just hasn’t had the time to develop materials for the white screen like she had wanted. I showed her my collection of educational Power Points that my students had helped write as we studied various topics. She was thrilled and requested copies of those, as well. She is looking forward to receiving all of the shows on DVDs so that the students can take them home to practice.
They loved the literacy bags and said they would use them in the classroom. The children love reading and having stories read to them. They have a limited library so this will add greatly. She was thrilled with the mini units in each bag. We will send out and bring back the bags as they are used and needed. Ann plans to start holding early morning get-togethers with parents and children and use the literacy bags for group read aloud stories and activities. Gradually they will have community members take over the story times.
She loved the MacMillan Readers from Blanding, especially since I gave her explicit comprehension lesson plans to go with every second grade story and files with phonetic spelling lists.
After about an hour she left to visit with some government officials who had come to see her. When she came back, she said she had impressed upon them the importance of educating the adults and they had agreed to bring in a building for a men’s center and a women’s center. When I told her I had brought two language programs that will be on DVDs so that community members can get together and teach each other, she was thrilled.
She mentioned that key men in the community have been requesting classes for learning English. She sent us over to the Shire office to see if they could give us space for the men’s class until the building is brought in and set up.
When we got to the office, it was closed but as we were leaving town, just a half block away, we came across the two key men from the office that we needed to talk too. We introduced ourselves and the project. They took us back to the office to have a look, and Kyle, a fluent, literate Aboriginal member of the community agreed to start conducting the classes there. They were both very positive about the idea.
At that point we realized we returned to the school with books we had meant to leave there. We were introduced to Jane, a teacher from Mulga Bore who had come to see the Alcoota teachers. They were showing her our new materials with great enthusiasm. She indicated that she would be thrilled to get them in her school and we assured her we would be sharing them with her as well. We explained that we wanted to help both communities in any way we can. We promised to return this coming week with more materials and make further plans.
Is it possible that God, who loves His children, can use His missionaries, by placing them in the right place, at the right time, doing the right things? The answer is a resounding YES! Friday, September 19 was a great day. The project was launched. All day long we watched one important door after another opened for us and realized that we had once again witnessed the Lord’s hand in this project.

Blessings from Heaven

2008-09-21T05:22:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago we had Branch Conference and District President Parsons attended. Sister Wood, Sister Lovegrove, Elder Shumway and I shared with him the things we are working on for the project. He was quite excited and saw that much of what we are generating could be used in Darwin as well the rest of the District. He asked us how he could best help and we told him our greatest frustration is the limited resources we have for technology and how much time is required on my new laptop alone since it is the only one with the capability to do much of the work. We told him that whatever he was inspired to do would be what we need.
Two weeks later he emailed me with the announcement he had come up with the money for a high-powered Apple with a special video graphics program. We will use it until we are finished and then return it to the NT District. I can’t begin to explain what a blessing this is.
At the same time, Brigham Archibald, a nineteen year old young man in our branch, has come onboard with the biggest computer I have ever seen. It has quad CPUs and 4GB of ram and huge dual hard drives. He will be converting the Power Points to video, and then to DVD. From there they will go to Sydney to be duplicated, thirty at a time.
Bro Harding and Bro Murray will be using their computers to help with the Gospel Fundamentals DVDs. and Bro Packy has started coming over on a regular basis to help with the Power Points. Things are coming together through the blessings of the Lord and people who are willing to help Him.

Teaching English

2008-09-11T05:07:00.001-07:00

One of the highlights of the last few months has been teaching English to some wonderful, talented, and highly motivated friends. They are amazing. Feng, Ping and Sky are the original members of the class and have completed the first course. Toa (left front) just joined us and is starting the new course.
(front left to right)Helen, Emma and Sahra sometimes attend. Helen usually goes next door to the sister’s class. The class is making great progress. Often one or more of the students come early for a Gospel lesson and most of the time, they all stay after for a Gospel lesson.
While the students learn English and grow in Gospel knowledge, the sisters and I make and use the Power Point lessons that we are converting to DVDs for the out bush family literacy project. These students will be able to use the DVDs for review and practice and we get valuable experience using what we have developed.

Anson Wade's Baptism

2008-09-11T04:34:00.000-07:00

I have been so busy lately I have let too many things go without a blog. These are things I want to remember and share, so I am going to post several blogs in a row, mostly pictures. First I want to share an important baptism: Anson Wade's. He is an amazing young man who recently moved here from New Zealand to live with his sister and her husband, plus other family. With the love and support of his household and the teachings of the missionaries, he has grown in the Gospel and been baptized.
Family Home Evening with Anson and the Hardings

More Family Home Evening--complete with some great music from Brother Harding

Anson Wade's baptism was a great experience. Here he is with his borther-in-law and his sister

A large number of the branch turned out in support. Brother Wade continues to learn, grow and use his priesthood.

Literacy Bags and Project Update

2008-08-31T03:54:00.000-07:00

The literacy bags are very close to ready. The whole branch has pitched in and helped us put them together.
We had two work sessions where community and branch members all pitched in and organized the books, bags, files, and activities.

We have been working with members from out bush who are going to help implement the program in their communities.

I don't know how we ever did without Sister Wood and Sister Lovegrove, but they are tireless in their efforts and are accomplishing miracles.

I hope we will be ready to take the beginnings of the program out bush this week.

Once again to all those in San Juan County, Utah who have contributed to this project: We can't thank you enough. Everything you sent is wonderful and will prove to be very worthwhile.

July Update - Just a Little Late?

2008-08-23T04:09:00.000-07:00

Things are going very well here. The sisters’ flat is finally completely set up, my DSL and phone are moved, we are completely moved in, and everyone is busily engaged. Things are quite wonderful with the leadership and the new sisters. We feel that many doors are being opened to the people who have needed to be taught for quite awhile as well as new people who are now being taught.
The sisters have begun teaching a language conversation class of their own with two Korean young women who are on a lower level than the Chinese and Korean students I am teaching. The sisters and we are visiting and teaching as much as we have time to, but this project is very demanding.

The closer I look at it, the more work I realize there really is. The voice recordings on the Power Points seem to take longer than we thought. Hopefully, as we become more experienced this will speed up.
Sister Lovegrove’s organizational skills are proving to be quite valuable, along with her Australian voice and educational background. Sister Wood is an extremely dedicated, hardworking, pleasant person who is eager and able to learn and accomplish whatever she needs to.

To Our Grieving Friends in Blanding:

2008-08-10T17:21:00.000-07:00

Words cannot express how saddened we were to hear of the tragic plane crash and loss of three of Blanding’s finest. Kim Acton, Eric Johnson, and Brian Bayles will be sorely missed by their families, friends, church, and community. They were wonderful family men, faithful Church members and leaders, community leaders, and successful businessmen, with exemplary histories of selfless service. Jim and Kim were kindred spirits enjoyed many happy times together. We send our love, our prayers, and our deepest condolences to the families and the community. We are grateful for the plan of salvation and the knowledge that we can be together forever as families. We pray for the Lord’s comforting spirit and his guidance for all in this time of tragedy.

New Missionaries and the Boxes Have Arrived!!

2008-07-19T03:57:00.000-07:00

We said a sad good-bye to Elder Collet and Elder Hardester. Elder Collet has been a powerful force in Alice for over a year. He made a lasting impact and will be missed by many. We were happy to start to get to know Elder Hardester and are sure his enthusiasm and positive attitude will be of benefit wherever he goes.

We are thrilled to have Elder McKnight return to us as our new Alice Springs Zone Leader. He brought with him Elder Pawtui. Elder McKnight is already making a powerful impact and Elder Pawtui is eager, hardworking and dedicated.

There has been so much to do, I really didn’t see the light at the end of the tunnel; but now I do. President Quinn has sent two senior sisters here to Alice Springs. They are both delightful. One, Sister Lovegrove, is a retired elementary school teacher and librarian. Not only that, but she is Australian. So now we will be able to produce American and Australian versions of the reading and language programs. Sister Wood is from America and she can help me with the American version. I can’t fully express how thrilled I am to have them here and how enthusiastic, talented and inspired they are. It is no coincidence that a refurbished flat two doors down from us came up for rent just as they were coming in. Elder Shumway and I have moved into that one with the help of the other six missionaries.

We are so excited! Christmas has come early and the boxes from Utah are here. We will be putting the bags together as soon as the books get here, which should be any day now. The first thing we will be introducing in the Family Learning Centers will be these bags and toys.
President and Sister Quinn were here for zone conference so they came to our flat to see the materials. We are all very thrilled with what is here. We are so grateful to all those who made it happen.

Hurray!!!

2008-07-17T22:04:00.000-07:00

To all our friends in Blanding and Monticello who contributed so many resources and so much time to this project: Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!! I want to give a special thanks to Marla Atkinson who was willing to share 2 ½ years of literacy bag work and development with us. Thanks to Patty Lyman, Elaine Johnson and Nedra Bunker for organizing the efforts of the Relief Societies of Blanding and Monticello. Thanks to the teachers who donated surplus books and materials, the Young Women who helped make toys for the Humanitarian Camp Project, the toys maker, and the Burtenshaws for delivering the shipment to SLC. I know the list is much longer than I can write, so thanks to everyone who contributed in any way to the project. I will continue to post blogs that will give updates and pictures on the progress of this amazing adventure in Australia. I believe there are many great things that will come from the out bush Family Learning Centers. Below is Patty Lyman’s email to me as the boxes were sent off. It gives a good description of what all was sent:
HURRAY!!! THE BOXES ARE ON THEIR WAY TO SALT LAKE CITY!!
What a fun huge project - there are 8 "Imagine If" boxes that have all the files - bags - scissors - erasers - rulers - a few notebooks - paper clips -elastics - crayons and the list goes on and on - there are some toys in their Frisbees - cars - jump ropes - wonderful little balls - etc!! Then there are 2 fruit boxes full of the basal books - Margaret Olderog sent the Kindergarten ones. Lynnette Brewer is wonderful and sent the yellow first grade ones and the phonics books - 2nd grade, red, came from Becky Larsen!! And they are packed with the 3rd grade books which also has the listening library CD's. They looked great - 3rd is Green - SO MERRY CHRISTMAS!! Then there are two boxes of toys - the wonderful wooden ones - I'd just leave them and not paint them - they are gorgeous and smell great!! And then there are some stuffed animals - Winnie the Pooh, Barney, Dogs, Cats and Horses!!
So anyway they have left Blanding and are on their way - I have talked with TODD a couple of times and will continue to keep in touch with him -
So love you tons - I have taken a few pictures and when my kids are home and we all get a minute we will e-mail them.
Love, Patty

Blessings in June

2008-06-28T03:39:00.000-07:00

Last November in conference, Elder Robert D Hales talked about personal revelation. In the talk was the following quote: “Elder Romney taught me about how the Lord blesses us with revelation. ‘Robert,’ he said, ‘I have learned that when we are on the Lord’s errand, we have His blessings to accomplish whatever we are asked to do.’ Since the literacy project was conceived and approved until now, little miracles, God’s tender mercies have been pouring in. There is no doubt in my mind that things are taking place here of great significance and I hope and pray that we in the Alice Springs District will continue to work together and find ourselves equal to the task.
It is an interesting series of events that have brought us to where we now are. Actually, it all started with a little tornado that tore the covering off the chapel in Angkula. That put President Marriott in touch with Elder Bartholomew in Sydney, who was over of the humanitarian projects for Australia. In a later conversation President Marriott mentioned needing some financial help with some gospel principle DVD’s he had us making in English and aboriginal language to teach the people out bush. That put an excited Elder Bartholomew in touch with President Quinn requesting an expanded proposal for a literacy project in this area. Subsequent conversations with Marla Atkinson in Blanding, Utah led to the idea of literacy bags like she developed for San Juan County School District.
Other events have led to the development of English conversation courses that will be converted from PowerPoint to DVD video. Savings within the projected budget have totaled to just enough for us to afford the software needed so everything we are developing can be professionally put together. The Elders and branch members have pitched in to help with much of the computer work that needs to be done. There are still many things to do and many questions to be answered but with faith and God's help we will “build the bridge as we walk on it.”
There will be more details on the marvelous help we're getting from Blanding and Monticello, Utah in the next blog.

To the Men in My LIfe

2008-06-22T04:29:00.000-07:00

Sorry this post is so late, but I still want to say for Father’s Day, that my life has been truly blessed.
I am most fortunate to have been given a wonderful father. He was an example of all he professed: full or faith, a devout member of the Church, a loving father and husband, a hard working provider, a life-long learner, and a talented singer, teacher, and artist.
I am grateful for my father-in-law, DeVar who worked with Madge so tirelessly to support and raise a family of 11 children. He has a strong testimony and always faithfully does whatever is asked of him in the Church. He is strong, generous, loves his family and is always willing to help.

I am thankful for my sons-in-law, Shawn, Steve, and Zeb. Here are a few of their traits I hold dear. Shawn reminds me in so many ways of my father, disciplined, patient, loving, and insightful. Steve loves life, is full of enthusiasm, generous, and has a great sense of humor. Zeb is kind, adventurous, fun loving, and caring. They are all spiritual, hard-working, faithful fathers and husbands, who love their children and wives and are loved and adored in return.
Our son Mike is strong, caring, creative, insightful, and has his father’s sense of humor. He is a wonderful, loved uncle to all of his nieces and nephews.

Finally, I am grateful for Jim, the love of my life. There are many times I wonder how I could have been so fortunate. He is a wonderful father and husband. I remember one time his sister Sallee, who lived through the block from us at the time, asked me if his loud whistling irritated me. I answered that though it sometimes got a little too loud; there wasn’t really anything about her brother that truly irritated me. I love everything about him, from his good looks to his sense of humor, from his deep, spiritual side to his fun, adventurous spirit, from his loving nature to his teasing attention-getters, from is faithfulness to his generosity, from his zest for life to his empathy for others, from his strength and athletic ability to his kind and gentle nature---I love it all. I thank God everyday that I was blessed to be his wife and I am thrilled to be serving this mission with him. Our love makes me strive to be a better person, so we can be together forever.
So to all those special men in my life, I say thank you and I love you with all my heart.

Happy Birthday Julee

2008-06-19T18:22:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to Julee, our youngest. We are privileged to be your parents. You have brought us great joy and fond memories. You are living a good life and are a fine example as a daughter, a wife and a mother. It is hard to believe that 29 years have passed. Don’t blink. Enjoy every minute as you raise your children. It is amazing how fast it all goes. One minute it seemed like I would always have a houseful of children and the next minute they have families of their own. We love you so very much. Here is a poem my mom and I have always enjoyed because it reminds of us of how precious every moment is.

Sunrise, Sunset

Is this the little girl I carried?
Is this the little boy at play?

I don't remember growing older
When did they?

When did she get to be a beauty?
When did he get to be so tall?

Wasn't it yesterday
When they were small?

Sunrise, sunset
Sunrise, sunset
Swiftly flow the days
Seedlings turn overnight to sunflowers
Blossoming even as we gaze

Sunrise, sunset
Sunrise, sunset
Swiftly fly the years
One season following another
Laden with happiness and tears

What words of wisdom can I give them?
How can I help to ease their way?

Now they must learn from one another

Sunrise, sunset
Sunrise, sunset
Swiftly flow the days
Seedlings turn overnight to sunflowers
Blossoming even as we gaze

Sunrise, sunset
Sunrise, sunset
Swiftly fly the years
One season following another
Laden with happiness and tears

Literacy Project and Language Classes

2008-06-11T22:37:00.001-07:00

We continue to work hard getting the literacy project to a launch stage. Sister Shumway is writing PowerPoint reading lessons that will be converted to DVD’s so that students will be able to practice at home and teach each other in the out bush communities. The missionaries are helping. It’s handy to have two computers in the same room (We just bought a new one). It is amazing to watch how things have fallen into place for the project, as well as missionary work.

We have also begun teaching English conversation lessons to Chinese and Korean students. It’s quite enjoyable and the students are very appreciative. They are learning and progressing quickly. Hopefully, we will be able to interest some of them in the gospel. Sister Shumway is converting the English conversation lessons to PowerPoint, with sound, that will eventually be converted to DVD’s for use in our literacy project, and also help our Asian and Korean students practice at home.

Member Missionaries

2008-06-11T21:51:00.000-07:00

The Bird mob, out bush, continues to share the gospel with others. They’re very faithful and developing their leadership capabilities. We’re sure they will be a great asset when it comes time to begin the literacy projects in their communities.

Gary Byrd is the Presiding Elder (out bush in Angkola)and has been a great help in producing the gospel principles DVDs.

Happy Birthday and Good-bye to Elder Brons

2008-06-11T20:45:00.000-07:00

The one thing in our lives that remains constant is change. We had a birthday celebration for Elder Brons at the Bartons’ and the next thing we knew he was being transferred to Darwin. It was hard saying good-bye. He is from Australia, so it’s pretty unlikely we will be seeing him again, once we leave the mission.

He has been a tremendous asset to the district,, writing the proposal and helping me with the technicalities of Power Point and the computer in general as I wrote my literacy lessons.

He is very spiritual and dedicated. He will do a good job wherever he goes.

We welcomed Elder Jensen. He is bright, dedicated and knowledgeable. He fits in well and we are pleased to have him as a part of the Alice Springs District.

May Mission Updates

2008-05-31T00:33:00.000-07:00

We're thrilled to announce that we have been approved for a humanitarian grant through the Church. We will be creating family learning centers in a few out bush communities. The purpose will be to provide fun crafts, games, literacy activities for parents and children. I’ve been working on PowerPoint presentations that will be converted into DVD’s so that members of the community who can read can teach those who can’t. We’re also going to have children’s literature and toys for story groups and play groups. It’s a rather unique one-of-a-kind project with lots of work ahead, but we feel there will be great rewards.

May has been a great month for baptisms the mission broke a May record and Alice Springs District got 10 baptisms. We have been working very hard in some out bush communities and the people are responding well. One community the missionaries visited had families who have been waiting for over a year to be visited by the missionaries. Fellow community members who were already baptized have been busy sharing the gospel. The second time the missionaries came out there, the people had built their own little “chapel.” One man who was baptized was so excited that after he came out of the water he kept saying over and over, “Thank you thank you!” He smiled at everyone and gave them two thumbs up. He was still saying thank you when the Elders drove away. The gospel is such a blessing in the lives of people who accept it and live it.

Marvelous Mother's Day

2008-05-14T19:10:00.000-07:00

Thanks to those of you who sent Mother’s Day best wishes or called. My Mother’s Day was one I will always remember. It started at Church with wonderful talks. They passed out a long stem red rose and a little tub of chocolates to each woman. At Relief Society we were treated to a great brunch. Elder Shumway presented me with a Mother’s Day Message on refrigerator magnet. I used the idea on it to make different Power Points I sent to our moms and children.

The real surprise came when we went to a “District Meeting” Sunday night at the Church. What I found instead was that Elder Shumway and other Alice Springs Elders had prepared a special “Diner” complete with menus listing unrecognizable names for different foods. You didn’t know what you had ordered until you got it. It was great fun. We loved sharing it with the Quinn family as well.
Then they surprised us with special Aboriginal dot paintings they had all written messages on and signed. What followed was a Collet Family tradition. They went around the table and took turns saying something they liked about each mother. It was a simple thing, but very powerful. I would highly recommend it to all of you. The Collet family does it on birthdays and other special occasions. You could pick one person each family home evening and do it as well. Sometimes we just don’t take the opportunity to share our feelings with each other. That was something I loved about my dad. He never missed an opportunity to say something positive about the people he loved.

May Zone Conference

2008-05-14T17:51:00.000-07:00

Last weekend Pres. and Sister Quinn and the Assistants came to Alice Springs for the Zone Conference. Their daughter, Kristen and her husband Abram came along with their two children. It was a wonderful conference. Kristen and Abram spoke as well and added greatly to the spirit. Zone conferences are always so uplifting and energizing. We learned about total commitment, transformation, faith in Jesus Christ, and miracles.

I spent Saturday morning teaching the Assistants how to teach the missionaries to teach literacy. Missionaries are teaching large groups of Sudanese and Asian immigrants in other areas of the mission.
Sister Quinn and I spent the afternoon with an investigator who recently had a new baby. She is a lovely person and a truly dedicated mother. We had a golf tournament and dinner at Club Lasseter with some investigators and branch members. It was all very successful and we had a good time building relationships. (No, I didn’t golf.)

President and Sister Quinn, Abram and Kristen, Ryan Quinn (who arrived later in the week) and the missionaries attended church out bush in Alcoota and got to attend the baptism of two converts. They had a very memorable experience. We watched Kristen’s baby and toddler. We got to be “grandparents” for the day.
It is so thrilling to think of the things that have happened in the last 10 years, which is culminating in President Quinn and his wife, and Elder and Sister Shumway having these amazing experiences half way around the world from where we thought we would be. We have been able to share our lives with some wonderful people from Australia, and have also been a part of the lives of the Quinn family. Who could have guessed that the events of 10 years ago, with Shawn and Lisa getting married would have such a positive lasting effect on so many people? We are very thankful to be a small part of the Quinn family and hope to share an eternity of friendship.

Elder Collet's Birthday

2008-05-14T03:40:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to Elder Collet! We surprised him at a dinner date with the Bartons. The elders and we presented him with a cake, socks, and engraved pens. He has been able to accomplish amazing things here in the Alice District. We have developed a strong friendship and a healthy respect for him. He has demonstrated profound leadership, the ability for thinking outside the box, dedication, and love for this work and the people he teaches. We have had some truly inspiring District Meetings led by him. He has a sense of humor similar to Elder Shumway's and a personality in many ways like Mike’s, our son. We imagine that he was this kind of missionary.

Good-bye to Elder McKnight and Hello to Elder Hardester

2008-05-07T22:02:00.001-07:00

This was the first transfer Elder Shumway and I have experienced in our district. We have all grown very close, so it was hard to say good-bye. But we know that wherever Elder McKnight serves he will be a blessing in the lives of those around him and continue to be an excellent missionary. We thank him for his example, his faith, his diligence, his genuine love for the work and the people. He will never be forgotten and his impact will be lasting.
We are happy to have Elder Hardester as an important part of the Alice Springs District. He brings with him enthusiasm, spirituality, diligence, talent and hard work. We are enjoying getting to know him.

Thanks for the Birthday Surprises

2008-05-07T19:11:00.000-07:00

April 9th
The sisters in the branch surprised me with a luncheon at a very nice restaurant and some lovely gifts and cards. Unfortunately, I forgot about a picture until half of the guests had left. Elder Shumway and the other elders surprised me with a birthday dinner and "gifts" like a Big Mac and candy. You that know me know how much I love those -not. It was all good fun. Thanks to those who sent the great birthday cards.

A Marvelous Week and a Wonder Part 2

2008-04-22T23:13:00.000-07:00

Our marvelous week continued Friday March 28 with our arrival in Adelaide. The kids were great on the plane. There was an extra seat by Elder Shumway and me, so Keely spent much of the flight with us. Here are some highlights of the next four days. For further details and highlights, go to Shawn and Lisa's blog link.

Somehow Keely and Ben were able to get their parents and grandparents to the temple on time. During the sealing Keely was a perfect little lady, while Benjamin reminded everyone of his baby blessing wherein he was told he would be humble and powerful. We are still waiting for the humble part!
Ben’s becoming part of our family and his sealing in the temple were the culmination of a string of miracles that testify over and over of God’s tender mercies in our lives. It was such a memorable experience to be able share with everyone in the sealing room together. It makes us so very grateful to know that families can, indeed, be together forever.

A wonderful young woman and convert baptized by Elder Collet one year ago, Tanya Wells worked hard to ready so she could get her endowments when we came to Adelaide. Saturday morning, before Ben’s sealing, we were privileged to accompany her in the temple. She is such a wonderful example of a good member of the church: eagerly learning, quickly to progressing, and enthusiastically spreading the Gospel. She came with us to Ben’s sealing afterward.

There were lots of adventures, stories, and swinging on the porch swing with Keely and Ben.

Saturday we were all off with Keely and Benjamin to the Beach House Amusement Park.

Keely found a face painter and became a baby kangaroo. Ben thoroughly enjoyed the transformation.

We found our way out the door and to the beach. It was too cold for swimming, but there was plenty to do digging holes, building sand castles, chasing waves and seagulls, collecting shells, walking down the peer, and watching Ben ride on Grandpa’s shoulders.

We enjoyed dinner at Elder and Sister Smith’s the first night there. Most of the other evenings were spent playing Scrabble. Sister Shumway was a miserable failure and wanted to bow out for the following nights. Shawn courageously took her on as his partner, but found that bad luck and letters followed her. Everyone was content to let her sit at the table and work on her computer thereafter.

Monday night we enjoyed a heart warming family home evening together and the next morning, we were off. Keely came along even though it was early. She insisted on wearing the shell necklace she and Grandma Shumway made together. We had a wonderful conversation all the way to the airport.
This week will remain permanently etched in our all hearts and minds. Thanks so much to Lisa and Shawn for the sacrifices they made to get the whole family here and to President and Sister Quinn for their gracious hospitality and the amazing dinners at home as well as their favorite Thai restaurant.
It was hard to say good-bye, but we are thrilled to be here doing what we know the Lord wants us to do. More importantly, it makes us so aware of the importance of blessing we all can earn of never having to say good-bye forever. Our families can be together forever.

Happy Birthday

2008-04-18T15:17:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to Arah DeVar and Arah Debra! We love you both so much and wish you another great year. I still remember how we had it in our minds from the beginning, Arah would be born on DeVar's birthday, and so she was! Here you are together on your birthdays. We are so grateful for you both and the lives you have led.
P.S. DeVar got a nice present from his grandson Kevin, today. He just got his mission call to Leeds, England.

A Marvelous Week and a Wonder

2008-04-10T00:17:00.000-07:00

This was a glorious week, one we will always remember. On Monday, Lisa, Shawn, Keely and Benjamin flew into Alice Springs with President and Sister Quinn and the Assistants for “Zone” Conference. What a thrill it was to see them. Keely ran up and gave me (Sister Shumway) a hug and kiss and I was choked up. We were so happy to be able to enjoy the long awaited arrival.

Monday afternoon, Elder Collet brought over a real live kangaroo that was gentle as a kitten. Keely and Ben got to play with the “Joey” for a little while. Fortunately, it survived Ben’s adoration. Keely loved it. Ben always definitely has a plan. Now that he can walk, he explores everywhere he goes. He went exploring with Grandpa.

That night we went to Dinner and a Show, where we enjoyed Aboriginal culture and some of the local food. One minute we were petting a Kangaroo, and the next minute we were eating its dad. (Only in Australia!). Elder Shumway did an impressive job of playing a didgeridoo.

Tuesday was District Conference and Lisa and Shawn gave inspirational talks that made a huge impression on all of us. President and Sister Quinn blessed us with their wisdom and spirit as well. The Assistants gave us great advice and food for thought. We all went away uplifted.
That afternoon basketball was on the agenda with Shawn and all the Elders, along with members of the community. Elder Shumway was allowed into the game long enough to commit a few fouls, but before he destroyed the Church’s public relations he was invited to leave for another “pressing engagement”. That night we all put on a special dinner for Alison and Chris, some investigators the Elders have been working with. Everything went great.

Wednesday morning we went to Desert Park, after which President Quinn and his wife flew off for Darwin to catch up with the Assistants, who had left earlier. Ben was thrilled with yet another place to explore walking, in a stroller, or on a grandpa’s shoulders. Keely has a most inquisitive mind and kept busy seeing everything she could. The weather was perfect and so was the morning.

Here is the other acceptable way for Ben to explore, on the shoulders of a cooperative grandpa.

Wednesday night we threw together a pizza party for Mark and Karen, and Yvonne and her son James. We loved getting a chance for them to get to know our family. Yvonne, one of our investigators, struck up an immediate friendship with Shawn, Lisa, Mark and Karen. And Keely and Ben got along great with James. They entertained each other all night (with some help from Elder Brons and Elder Shumway.) Yvonne seemed to really enjoy herself, as did Mark and Karen. Mark (our branches newest member) ended up being the pizza chef, and a good one he was!

The Reptile Museum was the first thing on the agenda Thursday. Keely and the rest of us got to experience lots of the local animal life. The snake Keely never got to hold, but did get to pet, kept looking at her as if she was just the right size for his monthly meal.
Like mother, like daughter, like granddaughter. We all love the creepy crawlies.

Early Thursday afternoon, Shawn and Keely came with us to meet and teach some investigators. Shawn shared a beautiful testimony as he taught and Keely really added to the spirit by her perfect behavior. Later that afternoon the men played racket ball and yes, Elder Collet beat Elder Shumway 15 to 13. Elder Collet was truly thrilled and has vowed never to play Elder Shumway again. Justifiably feels he can now return home honorably. (Since then, he has consented to bowling and pool, but lost to Elder Shumway. Later they golfed with Mark and even though it was his first time, Elder Collet had a respectable showing, almost beating Elder Shumway.)
Karen came over after racket ball and Shawn and Lisa had a chance to get to know them a little better. Lisa and Shawn were very impressed with Mark and Karen, (as are we all). Mark was just baptized and Karen joined the Church when she was sixteen. They are an amazing couple who have come through life strong, wise, determined and madly in love, after the many the trials they have faced.

Thursday late afternoon we went to the park. Ben was thrilled to get yet another opportunity to explore and Keely got to play on park equipment that was a little different that she had in the U.S. We topped the evening off at McDonald's. (They're everywhere.)

Friday morning we were off to Adelaide. We felt sad for the Elders we left behind. Lisa and Shawn and Keely were already quite attached.
(All it takes for Sister Shumway to fly well is a few drugs and a two gallon container of water. She spends a lot of time going up and down the aisle. Could someone please give her a clue?)

Adelaide is a whirl of great meals, great company and spiritual experiences. That will be the topic of the next blog.

A Mission Conference to Cherish

2008-04-01T21:16:00.000-07:00

(Click on image to enlarge.)

After some serious effort on the part of the Mission Office and President Quinn, arrangements were made for the entire mission to be in Adelaide for a Mission Conference with the Apostle, Elder David H. Bednar. It was a glorious experience to sit in his presence, listen to his magnificent admonitions and wisdom, and let the spirit teach us. Later that evening, we attended a fireside where he and his wife spoke again. Both times those attending were given the privilege of asking questions and receiving answers from him and sometimes, his wife.

One of the subjects that struck me powerfully was his explanation of faith and how we use and strengthen it. Faith is action, and fear is inaction. He used the analogy of being directed by the Lord to step out of a beam of light. We want the light to move first, but it is after the trial that our faith comes. Since the light moves with us, we must first take the step. Hence, first it is hoped for, then it is seen. Hebrews 11:1, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” When we take the steps and have the light move with us, our faith is strengthened. He ended both meetings with great apostolic blessings for this mission and we are already seeing some effects. We will be forever thankful to those who made it possible for all the Adelaide Australia Mission (including outlying areas) to have this once in a lifetime spiritual experience.

Mark's Baptism

2008-04-01T14:36:00.000-07:00

The Alice District Missionaries were thrilled with the baptism of Mark Bournes on March 22. We met him and his wife, Karen, in December, and quickly grew to respect and love them. We with the Elders, have all enjoyed good times, lessons, dinners together. Karen joined the Church when she was sixteen. They are both so determined and diligent about making important changes in their lives. Their progress has been exciting for us and the Elders to watch. They already had a wonderful marriage and now they are united in the Gospel. It was a spiritual baptismal service with great support from the branch. Mark received a wonderful blessing in his confirmation. Mark and Karen (Brother and Sister Bournes) are great additions to the Church. They have recently made job changes that will make it possible to attend church regularly. We are looking forward to being lifelong friends and give thanks to both of them for the privilege of being part of this baptism.

Happy Easter

2008-03-23T21:03:00.000-07:00

You asked for it, you got it.

Love you guys,
Arah

Joey

2008-03-10T04:52:00.000-07:00

Some of our Aboriginal members are raising an orphaned kangaroo. They’ve had it for four days. It's as friendly as a little kitten or puppy. It is so cute and cuddly and lives on milk and grass. When it goes to sleep, it crawls face first under a blanket. When it gets bigger they will probably give it to Desert Park. My grand kids need to see this. So here it is. You can click on the pictures for a close-up.

Driving Miss Daisy

2008-03-04T18:37:00.000-08:00

Sister Shumway is continuing to direct me when I am driving on the correct side of the road, and goes into a near state of panic every time we turn a corner and she sees cars coming towards us on the right. Of course she still has not been willing to drive out here. Confidentially, I feel she should receive a medal from the Australian Government for the number of lives she has saved. It may be true: You can’t teach an old ___ to do new tricks.

With that being said, I need to let it be known that she has been wonderful to have as a companion. It is amazing how much we are learning from President & Sister Quinn, and the Elders who have been working with us. Right now, we are a little concerned because this weekend is transfers and we would hate to lose any of the Elders from this District. But we know it will happen sometime and we will be happy to work with whomever the Lord decides. We know that we are in the right place, doing the right things, and we are very happy. Every “Senior Couple” that has the health and testimony to serve a mission really should take advantage of the great opportunity.

Sister Shumway is going to put a few pictures up for everyone to see, in the near future. Please don’t be too shocked at how white her hair has been turned by my driving. And by the way...everytime I ask her why she hasn't driven in almost 4 months, she politely smiles and says "I choose life!"

P.S. From Sister Shumway: I never panicked. Why, I even remained perfectly calm when passengers, who were riding with us, politely told Elder Shumway, he was on the wrong side of the road. We’re enjoying giving literacy lessons and gospel lessons to several people and they are progressing well.

Thought of the week: “Happiness in family life is most likely achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance and forgiveness, respect, love, compassion and wholesome recreational activities,” Ensign, November 1995, page 102.

Taste Buds

2008-02-27T04:45:00.000-08:00

I’d already been thinking about writing this blog, but after Lisa’s blog today on food, I decided I’d put in my 2 bits.
Yesterday my husband and I went by the grocery store because I wanted to pick up some grapes. It wasn’t our regular shopping trip so we just got a few things. I got grapes, apples, carrots, and a red bell pepper. Elder Shumway bought hot dog buns, a dozen doughnuts and a package of Australian beef sausages. Their sausages are a substitute for our hot dogs. Now I’ve never like hot dogs, but these are so much worse. They are full of fat and by products. They’re bumpy and crumble instead of bend. I tasted one bite some time ago, but wasn’t able to swallow it. While I was making my salad, he boiled his sausages. This white foamy stuff filled the pan and he had to keep spooning it off. When he stuck one with a fork, it kind of crumbled like a Vienna sausage. The outside skin peals off and crumples while it’s boiling. They look like long fat grubs. I told him I wasn’t sure there was an amount of money I would take to eat those things, but whatever that amount was, it was more than he had.
I looked into that pan and at my salad and thought, now I understand why I eat the way I do! So Lisa, in answer to your question about taste buds, go figure! I’ve got no idea!

February Updates

2008-02-24T04:17:00.000-08:00

We can’t believe another month is almost gone. We missed Valentines Day. We are working hard and making progress with our investigators. We are learning a lot and learning we have a lot to learn. We will have a baptism within a couple of weeks. We had a great mission teleconference with Elder Sybrowsky and will be flying to Adelaide for a Mission conference with Elder David Bednar on March 12th.
We finished the transcripts we were working on for some Gospel Principles DVDs. They will be in simple English and the main Aboriginal language. That way the members can get and give instruction when they are out bush and the missionaries aren’t available. The new members are very faithful and setting an example for all of us when it comes to humility, turning their lives around, and sharing the Gospel with others.

The weather has turned quite nice (hope it lasts). There’s a cool breeze blowing through our windows and we’ve decided we would definitely choose this weather over the hard winter in Utah. Elder Shumway beat the other elders in bowling on preparation day, but Mark one of our wonderful investigators beat them all. Since there has been no further racquetball, he’s still undefeated. We have stayed healthy and Sister Shumway can nag her children from 9000 miles away.
We continue to count our blessings and see the hand of the Lord in our lives and the lives of so many others. We are grateful for your love and support. Here is a beautiful Alice sunset(especially for Grandma Gibby)and a pleasant Alice day for you.

Ayden's Birthday

2008-02-13T20:38:00.000-08:00

Hey Mom and Dad,

Here's a little video of Ayden's birthday party. Sorry your favorite daughter isn't in any of it. I'm behind the camera. I realize I'm not the best filming skills, but it's better than nothing, right?

Love you,
Arah

Let Me Take You There: Alice SpringsTour

2008-02-06T23:38:00.000-08:00

It has been interesting to us to listen to all of you back in the USA bragging about how cold it is and how much snow you have, while we sit in Alice Springs with the temperature hovering right around 100 to 110 degrees F. and speculate on how much longer the people in this area will call the dry, sandy creek bed we have here, “The Todd River”!

Now, for some of you sophisticated people who have spent a goodly portion of your life in a major American metropolitan area with a population of about 4000. Alice Springs is a City of about 26,000 people. The roads are paved. Most of the residents live in nice homes or “flats” (rental units). We have a K-Mart. McDonalds, KFC, and Burger King are alive and well. We have several grocery stores that sell the same basic items as you would purchase in America. The people wear normal clothes, AND we have yet to find any poisonous snakes or spiders within our humble abode. Though, we did see one beautiful giant huntsman spider (non-poisonous) outside our front door. Sadly, it left. You could say we live in a civilized community that is a true melting pot of people from many countries and cultures. Some speak 4 or 5 different languages, fluently.

Preparation Day

2008-01-30T21:10:00.000-08:00

We have several quality community recreation buildings and fields. One of them is a “Squash & Racquetball” facility that is frequented by the missionaries about once a week, where the frustrated, athletic, young men of the Alice Springs District are continuing to challenge an old man of 60 years. They just know, in their heart of hearts, that if they work at it long enough and hard enough, they will eventually wear him down and win a match. May I say to those University Soccer and Baseball players, GOOD LUCK!
Update as of Thursday, January 21,(last prepartation day):Well they still didn't manage to beat him, but that pulled hamstring was painful. Now if he just milks it for all it's worth maybe he won't have to play them again? That would accomplish two goals: save Elder Shumway embarrassment and irritate them to no end.

Projects in the Works

2008-01-30T20:55:00.000-08:00

We are finding that the literacy program is helping several people and opening doors for opportunities to teach the gospel. Sister Shumway has been asked by the District Church Education System Director to type up a summary of how she has converted the phonics and concepts of each Church literacy lesson into Power Point Presentations that are easy to teach.
President Marriott, of the Alice Springs Branch, assigned the District to work on a series of three DVDs in which the basic gospel lessons are taught in English as well as Aboriginal language. These DVD’s will be sent “out bush” to help new members and investigators continue to learn about the gospel when the missionaries are not readily available. This project is somewhat above Elder Shumway’s intellectual capacities, but thank goodness, Sister Shumway and a couple of the other missionaries seem to know what they are doing, and the work continues to march forward. It will be a busy month. We are grateful for this opportunity and constantly feel the Lord’s spirit and direction.

Baptisms

2008-01-30T20:33:00.000-08:00

The district had five more baptisms this month and we are working with several people who are coming very close. We have met a wonderful couple, Mark and Karen, and are teaching Mark. Karen joined the church when she was sixteen. We feel as though we have known them so much longer than we have. They are the age of our own children, feel like family and are a constant source of inspiration and happiness. Please keep them in your prayers. Our goal is to meet in Hawaii, on our way home in May of 2009, and go to the temple with them.
We are also teaching several other people; a great little family from Kenya, a 14 year old boy whose mother joined the church last year, a young mother, and a Sudanese woman who has been through some very difficult things in her life.

January Blessings

2008-01-30T20:01:00.001-08:00

This has been another good month. We had a great Zone Conference with President and Sister Quinn. We were inspired and thrilled to hear from them. We had a celebration for the successes of last month and year and set goals for the future. They taped a panel interview of the Alice Springs District missionaries to record insights that we had received as a result of last month’s successes. We were again amazed with the wisdom and teachings we heard from the Elders, 20 years old and going on 40 when it comes to inspiration, knowledge and teaching ability. We have made the wise decision to have one of them or Elder Jackson (an area authority) accompany us when we do our gospel teaching.

We met Tanya, who is a recent convert Elder Collet taught in Adelaide. She and some friends drove up to Alice and spent a few days here on vacation. She is such a great example of enthusiasm and what a strong testimony can do. We are always so thrilled to see the positive difference the gospel can make in the lives of others. She constantly looks for ways to share the gospel and even spent a day of her vacation to take us tracting. We found several people to teach. Her door approaches were amazing. We email back and forth now. In a recent email she exclaimed, "I am so happy!"

Rachelle's Baptism Miracle

2008-01-16T03:17:00.001-08:00

One weekend in December, we were preparing to hold a baptismal service for three converts. As the Elders were on their way to check on those who were to be baptized they saw one of them, Rachelle, in a nearby park. They stopped and told her the Senior Missionaries would be right back to pick her up, and they proceeded to her family’s flat (apartment). Elder McKnight and I picked up the other two and went back to pick Rachelle up at the park.
We couldn’t find her there, so we drove to the Church with the other two so they could be interviewed and change into baptismal clothes. At the Church her grandmother agreed to go back with Elder Collet and me to see if we could find her. When we arrived at the family flat her mother informed us that Rachelle had left over 15 minutes earlier, in a red car, and was headed “out bush” to an area that was over 100 K away. As we disappointedly got back into the car, Elder Collet turned to me and said “Pray for a miracle”.
We looked for the red car as we headed back to the church. As we drove through the traffic, the three of us were in kind of a reflective mood, and very little was being said. Suddenly a red car some 200 yards ahead caught my attention. I had never seen the car before, but I immediately blurted out, “There’s a red car. Is that them?”
Elder Collet, looked for a second or two, and said “I think it might be.”
He then turned to Sister Ilene Bird and asked her. She looked up ahead and said, “Yes, that’s them. Go stop them.”
I caught up to them and honked several times until they pulled over to see what we wanted. Elder Collet had asked us to pray for a miracle and it looked like we had one. They should have been several miles away, heading out bush, but in a city of 26,000 there they were.
After we stopped them, and Rachelle's grandmother visited with her for a few minutes, she decided to be baptized before going out bush, but she wanted to bring the friend she was traveling with and go back to get her mother. Of course we agreed and got into the car to leave. As they made a U-turn, one of the wheels on the car began wobbling dangerously, so we waved them over again to see what was wrong. The driver got out, took off the hubcap, and discovered 4 of the five lug-nuts had broken off, and the fifth one was extremely loose. Elder Collet and I were in kind of a state of shock as we walked around that dilapidated old car and imagined what could easily have happened if we had not stopped them and discovered the problem that exposed itself when they made a U-turn. Instead, they would have proceeded another few blocks to Stuart Highway, and been traveling at speeds in excess of 110 K/hour (70 mph).
As it turned out, we had the privilege of baptizing Rachelle that evening, along with two other members of her family. That was a miracle, but an even greater miracle occurred that scorching hot day, with an old red car, and its nine occupants, without seatbelts, that never entered the Stuart Highway. Because we were listening to the Spirit, and following His promptings, we were instrumental in helping nine people’s lives be protected. They were saved from potential physical harm or death, and we saw a beautiful young girl baptized.
This is a marvelous example of how God is mindful of all His children and how much He loves them.

December Baptisms

2008-01-02T23:51:00.000-08:00

This blog will follow many of the happenings, feelings and miracles of the Alice Springs District for the month of December. It has been a joyous experience. Prior to the Christmas Zone (District) Conference the 6 of us met and discussed a goal which the 4 Elders had just set. They asked our support as team members in the district, with explanation that though many might deem this impossible, they believed we could baptize 16 people in the month of December. Being new missionaries and believing in these great young men we excitedly threw in with their vision. That vision was conceived with faith, and a plan was set forth. We agreed as a District that we would share a portion of the plan, but the goal as a whole was withheld.
We committed, as an entire district, that we would faithfully follow the mission rules. We became a companionship of 6 as we found each other’s strengths and built upon them. We worked as a team. We prayed, fasted and depended upon guidance from the Lord. All of these things became an integral part of our lives. We put together daily and weekly plans, and then proceeded to work, always relying on further inspiration and revelation. These plans were modified as needed to achieve our ultimate goal.
In the final analysis, the names may have changed in some cases, but the goal we reached always remained the same. When one door closed, the Lord opened another one. We have grown to truly love each other. We love our Savior even more than we did a month ago. We understand the concept of teamwork better than ever before. We love our investigators and new members more than a month ago. In all of our baptisms we have found Heavenly Father’s children who had been properly taught, had attended the requisite church meetings and were worthy of baptism. Our missionary efforts were flexible and unrelenting, and always within the bounds set by our church and mission leaders.
We have much work yet to do. We have faith in each other. We have faith in the Gospel. We have experienced physical, emotional and spiritual exhaustion and renewal. After reaching the goal we were inspired to set and accept, we have taken a few hours to catch our breath and assess where we should now be going. No one will ever know how many changes of plans, miracles and “pre-filled baptismal fonts” we have experienced. It has been a glorious run. The magic number of 16 was inspired. We had to take so many twists and turns to reach the goal, but we know that what happened was supposed to happen. We also know there is still much to do. We are now better prepared to press forward. Our districts baptismal numbers may never again be the same, but they will continue.
We love and support our Mission President. We honor every church member and missionary who ever worked in Alice to prepare this field in order for us to be allowed to reap the harvest.

Christmas in Alice

2007-12-28T20:41:00.000-08:00

We had a very memorable, great, Christmas in Alice Springs. It started with an inspirational Zone Conference put on by President and Sister Quinn. Afterward, we had a delicious Christmas dinner and then a bowling/game/video party. The Branch had a Christmas Party on the Friday before Christmas with tables of good food, Christmas carols, and skits. We were invited by the Kaesler family to Christmas Eve dinner and by the Jackson’s for Christmas dinner. They were both quite the feasts and we really enjoyed getting to know the families. We all got Christmas presents from the branch president. Then on Friday, we celebrated again with the Clarks’ with a fun, make-your-own-pizza party. It is amazing to us that with all the hustle and bustle of Christmas, these families took the time and expense to think of and bless the lives of the missionaries. This is a very good branch. Just before Christmas, we visited the yard of the Christmas Decorations Winner with some recent converts. We truly felt the spirit of Christmas everywhere we celebrated.

We also enjoyed a Christmas day water fight, which Elder Shumway lost badly, partly due to the fact that he trusted his own teammate (not Sister Shumway) who dumped several gallons of water on him when his back was turned, and partly due to the fact that he seems to attract persecution. The weather was comfortably warm and we were blessed with a heavy rain a few days before Christmas.

The highlight of the month was the blessing of reaching the district goal of 16 baptisms. I will tell you more about this in detail in another blog. Our Christmas blessings were great, and came complete with a tree donated by the Bartons.

Be a part of it.

2007-12-27T20:26:00.000-08:00

Hey Mom and Dad,
We wanted you to feel like you were a part of things for Christmas so here are a few clips. We missed you very much, but are glad you're where you are!

Christmas Eve

Christmas Morning

Stockings

Christmas Letter 2007

2007-12-24T03:56:00.000-08:00

December 24, 2007

Dear Family and Friends:

It is not by choice, but by commandment of my “Senior Companion” that I send this greeting or salutation. As you know, Sister Shumway and I are now serving a mission in Australia. We are in a small City (Alice Springs) in the very middle of the Continent. We are 1000 miles from the Zone Leaders, and 1000 miles from our Mission President. How Sweet It Is! Many blessing have come into our lives. We moved from Blanding, (the city I love) to the Wasatch Front, where every car on the freeway is out to kill its neighbor and every breath you take puts you in peril of lung cancer, and where they still live the Law of Moses, (An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth). We moved there to be with our children and grandchildren. Sister Shumway thought it was great.
We were there for about 4 months, long enough that the children were truly thrilled when they watched our airplane slowly disappear into the sunset. Some positives that have come out of this are:
• We no longer have to paint, clean, garden repair, finish, refurbish and sell real estate that we purchased in partnership with some of our children.
• The next time we move, it will only involve three suitcases apiece.
• Laura no longer feels obligated to ask us to baby sit for her three children, who are beautiful and doing very well with their social life and school. Also, fortunately for Laura, she won’t be able to have me repair any more $10 leaks that turn into $500 leaks under the touch of my masterful hand.
• Arah and Steve no longer feel obligated to allow us to spend a few minutes with Gavin (4 almost), who would really rather spend time with the neighborhood kids.
• Mike no longer depends on us to entertain his girlfriend Emily, (who is a beautiful girl) while he is away with his band or Texas Hold’em?
• Julee and Zeb no longer have to worry about Ayden (10 mo.) learning to say grandpa and grandma before he can say dada, or mama. While we have been serving the Lord, Ayden has learned to walk, and we didn’t have to witness his crying every time he fell down.
• Lisa and Shawn no longer have to deal with any of Keely (4) and Ben’s (8 mo.) grandparents bugging them, because all four of us are now 10,000 miles away. What a beautiful thing it is! Keely is now in full control of her entire household and Ben has learned to crawl.

*Check all their Blogs out to see how they are doing.

Our Mission is going well. President and Sister Quinn are marvelous. They let us cover our own gas, groceries, apartment (they call it a flat here in Australia) and utilities, along with anything else we may stand in need of. They haven’t complained even one time about the cost it has been to us. Honestly, we will be forever grateful to them for allowing us to be called into this amazing mission. We have met some wonderful people and been privileged to be see several investigators come into the Church. The Elders in our District are amazing young men. Our District Leaders (we actually have two of them) and their two companions are hard working, gifted and inspired. We truly love them.

We have already had a memorable Christmas in Ankgula (see blog), been able to participate with the baptism of 14 wonderful souls, started a literacy class and enjoyed sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ with several others. We testify to all of you that Christ is our Father in Heaven’s gift to us and it is only through faith, repentance, baptism, the gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end that we can fully take advantage of the supreme gift of all. We wish you all the blessings of the Gospel of Jesus Christ for all eternity.
In closing, we are thrilled to be where we are, doing what we are doing. We are too busy to miss any of you….and maybe we will just stay. After all, how else can we spend Christmas day sweltering in the sweat of 100 degrees? “Merry Christmas, Mates! No worries!”

We love you all,

Elder Jim and Sister Lynda Shumway

P.S. If you would like to serve in Australia start filling out your papers right now and apply for your passport It takes about 10 months of being prodded, poked, shot and radiated by the medical profession to prove you really want to spend a few months here. Then there are the extensive missionary forms on the computer that have to be filled out. (PLEASE don’t forget your username and password once you’ve set it up!) After this the Bishop and Stake President can then verify that you a “member in good standing” who might not embarrass the church too badly. Also, be sure and get your fingerprints to the FBI, have local and state police clearances done early and get your International Driver’s License. I guess the rule is… if you have ever had a parking ticket don’t bother to apply. It is amazing to me that the Church asks every “Senior Couple” (why can’t they call us “mature couples” or “just couples”?) to think about a mission….. and then demand a doctoral degree, perfect health and a 6 digit bank account before they will even consider us for the calling. Whatever happened to the old “If ye have desire, ye are called to the work”? --Elder Shumway

What’s this about a six-digit bank account and doctoral degree? Do you know something I don’t know, Elder Shumway? And by the way, it’s not a sweltering 100 degrees. It’s a most comfortable 75 degrees. We haven’t used our AC for three days and nights. --Sister Shumway

Not again!

2007-12-23T21:37:00.000-08:00

December 20th was our 39th anniversary. True to form, I completely forgot and my husband remembered. He had the Elders set up a surprise KFC dinner at our flat. When we came in and they started serenading us, Elder Shumway could clearly see I was still in the dark, so he had to say, "Happy 39th!" Now I have an assignment for all of you: starting on Dec. 15th next year, I need to start receiving some email reminders of our 40th coming up! Thanks to a wonderful husband for 39 great years!

Christmas at Angkula

2007-12-16T23:40:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, December 16, we went with the Branch President and missionaries to have a special sacrament meeting the members, recent converts, and friends in Angkula. These are an amazing people who have caught the vision of Jesus Christ and the gospel. They have shared the message with friends and family and as a result missionaries are teaching and the church there is growing. These converts are good examples to us all.
Afterwards we had a big Christmas dinner and then a baptism. It was truly a spiritual event and a Christmas we won't forget.
To add to the blessings of this month, six months of dedicated work on the part of the Elders culminated in the baptism of eight more wonderful people. We see in the children the seeds of leadership and greatness, and in the adults, priesthood leadership and strengthening of the church. We are so grateful that their relatives and friends opened the door so they could be taught.

Why I am thankful families are forever!

2007-12-16T21:02:00.000-08:00

This blog is a little out of order, but I wanted to post some pictures showing the good times we had in California, Idaho, and Lehi with the family before we left. Isn't is a wonderful thought that we can say good-bye happily because we know we're coming back home, in time? We are so thankful for such a wonderful family and we are so grateful that we are sealed together for time and all eternity, so when we say good-bye at the end of our lives, we'll know we'll be back together again, in time.

Pictures From The MTC

2007-12-16T16:26:00.001-08:00

The MTC was a great experience and helped us prepare for our mission. There were outstanding returned missionaries who taught out classes. We met wonderful people who were going all over the world to spread the gospel message. We wish everyone well.

Now it's getting hot!

2007-12-02T03:45:00.000-08:00

Now it's getting hot! I think for the next few months, four to be exact, weather here is going to be like Phoenix or Las Vegas. Fortunately we're in air-conditioned houses and cars most of the time. We are teaching several families that seem to be very receptive. The other day when we went to the reptile museum, we met a lovely young woman got an appointment to teach her this coming week. She is on the staff of the museum and showed us the reptiles we got to hold. You'll see pictures on our blog later when I finally get my DSL.
Speaking of the DSL, after a week of waiting to receive my modem, I heard from Big Pond. It seems that they hadn't been able to process my order because of some sort of a computer error. While I was on hold they figured out how to fix it. (They couldn’t have done it earlier?) So it's going to be another week or two before I finally get my phone, as well as my DSL. Check past blogs in a week or two. I'll put up some slideshows then.
I have started teaching literacy to several people. I'm just getting a feel for where I have to start, which usually seems to be the very beginning. I think the material Mrs. Brewer, a first grade teacher at Blanding Elementary, sent me on my flash drive will be a great help. I also have a wealth of material from my teaching. I will also be using the Church literacy program, but for right now it is too difficult. I'm trying to come up with the way to reach more people more efficiently. I'm sure I’ll come up a way; I just haven't figured it out yet. We are both quite convinced there's a very important work here for us to do. We hope that we are able to discover just what it is and how to do it, and be prepared for the task. So far it has been quite interesting to watch events, things and people come together in a way that leads us to remember God is very mindful of all of us.

Here's a spiritual thought for the week on hope:“When we have hope, we trust God’s promises. We have a quiet assurance that if we do the works of righteousness we will receive our reward…..As you strive to live the gospel, you grow in your ability to abound in hope through the power of the Holy Ghost….You increase in hope as you pray and seek God’s forgiveness.” True to the Faith, pages 85.

Elder Shumway’s Message: A war isn’t won by standing back and watching the enemy launch their arsenal of weapons in your direction. Instead, it behooves each of us to gather our weapons of righteousness, put on the protective armor of God, identify the weaknesses of the adversary and then intelligently charge into the battle with “faith, hope, charity and love, with an eye single to the glory of God.” We each have our battles, and they can all be won. LUV, Dad

Because 2 People Fell In Love

2007-12-02T00:47:00.000-08:00

The whole family all got together just before we left on our mission. What a great time! The family devotional we had one evening that week is something we will always treasure and something that will sustain us on our mission. As we look at these pictures we think, “This is what life is all about. We are truly blessed.”

Here We Are

2007-11-27T19:46:00.001-08:00

Adelaide is a beautiful city. We spent three days there getting training from some amazing people. It was great to see President and Sister Quinn.

So far, we really like Alice Springs and have spent a lot of time touring the City in a state of being completely lost!. The weather has been warm and pleasant, the general landscape and climate seems somewhat similar to Blanding, (20 degrees hotter) though the town is about six times the size.. The branch is very friendly and supportive of missionaries. Our flat (apartment) is pleasant, clean and just the right size. The couple we are replacing, the Edmonds, trained us for two days. They have been doing a wonderful work here. The four elders we’re working with are extremely impressive. We have met most of the investigators, and many of the aboriginal members. We're very excited about working with them. We'll post pictures as soon as we have our DSL. On the next posting I’ll share a few thoughts and things we have learned. –Sister Shumway.

P.S. from Elder Shumway – Riding on the opposite side of the road has been a harrowing experience for my passengers. Following Sister Shumway’s map reading skills has been a harrowing experience for the driver (me). So far, there are no new dents in the vehicle, and I have been able to keep our identification from other drivers, as they politely sound their horns in a state of mild road rage. The GPS system I left at home is much more polite than my designated navigator has been thus far, when I have to take the blame for her inability to read a map. Our relationship of love and trust is growing by leaps and bounds, because I have become a Saint, and am far ahead of her in the area of forgiveness.

We are still trying to find ourselves and our calling in some ways, but are truly thrilled to be in “Alice” with some great Elders, and a wonderful Branch, with an inspired Branch President. Our little Branch also brags the unique privilege of housing a general authority (Elder Jackson, quorum of 70, and Area Authority) who is often in attendance at the Branch, therefore presiding. The Church is still true. Keep the faith, and pray for those we meet, and yes, even those we run into.

Getting Started

2007-11-27T19:43:00.000-08:00

We have just completed our weeks training in the MTC. It was an amazing week. One of the senior couples said it was kind of like trying to drink from a fire hydrant. Sometimes we felt like that because there is so much to do and so much to learn. I feel like as long as we listen to the spirit, and take one step at a time, we’ll learn what we need to learn and do what we need to do. Returned missionaries taught most of the lessons, and it was pretty exciting to learn from them and admire how well they knew the gospel and the lessons. We got to spend Saturday at Arah's and one last time together.

Mike came to see us off at the airport. We had a good visit. It was very nice having him there with us. The entire flight was 26 hours, including two layovers and one diversion to Sydney. We met several interesting people on the plane and were actually able to discuss the gospel with them. One of the men Elder Shumway spoke to agreed to read the Book of Mormon. We will get back with him later. Pictures later, after we get DSL.