Trip to New Castle

27 March 2011
Branch Conference in Mbabane Branch; the theme of the Conference was self-reliance, a much needed area for the people of Swaziland.  We were impressed with their understanding and knowledge that they know how and what to store.  Concern was expressed about the possiblity of war and being prepared.  Some of the items they suggested for storage was sour porridge, maize, beans, rice and water.  President Simelane expressed the importance of storing water.  It was stated that "we are very lucky to have a Prophet and we must do as he says". They expressed the need for wood and matches and the big pots all Swazi people have, they know how to cook outside and grow and store their staples.  "Are there any hands up?" (are there any questions)  Also, they expressed their testimony that the First Presidency has been chosen by God.

26 March 2011
We spent a few hours with the Petersons they were here to do an employment presentation in the different Branches; we were not involved at all.

25 March 2011
Today we stayed in all day and rested.  Enough said!!

24 March 2011
We met the Nuzman family at Timbali Lodge and spent the day with them.  They insisted on paying for our lunch and our dinner.  We took them to Manzini Market, Swazi Candle and the Ngwenya Glass Factory.  It was truly a great day with people we have learned to love very much.

23 March 2011
Got up early for Zone Conference, Sister Blackburn cleaned Elder and  Sister Ward's teeth before we left, it is something we can do for them, they are so kind to us.  The Sisters were busy with getting food for the Elders that they missed pictures and most of the conference.  We left at 3:00 p.m. so we could get to the Swazi border post before 6:00 p.m. and closing time.  We really drove hard and fast and arrived at 3 minutes to 6:00 p.m.  The guard was really nosy and had everything taken out of the bakkis and car so he could see everything we had; he was like a child and curious.  We had to even declare a pizza.  We had planned on feeding the Elders once we passed the border gate.  We learned that more people have been posted to that border post so they can get more customs tax.  Unfortunately for them, we did not have enough.  We thought they were looking for weapons because of the future unrest and protests.  We were happy to get out of the cars and settled back in.

22 march 2011
We picked up Elder Moeta and Elder Mutariswa and left for New Castle and Zone conference, the Zone Leader's bakki in the shop for repairs and won't be finished for about 2 weeks.  Sister Blackburn got a hair cut and the Wards prepared dinner for us and the Mission President and wife.  We have to leave tomorrow right after Conference to get the missionaries back to their areas.