Nhlangano Branch when Elder and Sister Wilson was leaving.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
New Years Eve
31 Dec 2010
We received a telephone call in the morning from a young man by the name of Gift, he asked to be baptized, we contacted the Manzini Elders, since he lives in Ngwenya Park area and picked the Elders up at their boarding, then went to find Gift, after much searching and calls we picked up a young man to show us where Gift lives; Gift did not want to have the lessons with his parents, "they are sceptical" so the Elders found a place outside to teach him. He will have a lesson tomorrow and probably Sunday. His sister was invited to join him for the lessons, hopefully she will and relieve her parents anxiety concerning the Church.
Elders were invited for the evening; dinner was barbequed hamburgers, home made buns, potato salad, cilli beans and cookies. Elder Shibambo needed to fill out an accident report on the broken tail light on his bakki after about 30 minutes of explanations, Elder Blackburn determined that they were driving too fast in a rain storm, the bakki was fishtailing all over the road and they hit an embankment. They watched their slide show of themselves for the year 2010 and enjoyed it tremendously; then watched Harry and the Hendersons, the first time many of the African Elders had seen a movie made for the theaters. Much laughter; then they wanted to know the history of "Hurrah for Israel", Sister Blackburn had printed a copy and had Elder Ng'Anda read it to everyone else, after that they were determined to give the best Hurrah for Israel they had ever given. It made the house shake. Now they will do that after every District and Zone Meeting. They left at 8:30 after they had done the dishes for Sister Blackburn; they were "In and Safe" by 9:30p.m.
1 Jan 2011
Today has been a very slow day, we find we have been sleepy and sleeping almost all day. Elder Blackburn was sleeping on the couch and the young man who tends the horses here at Twiggs Garden wanted to talk with him about having the missionary lessons, he is HIV positive and thought he would die 2 years ago and is expecting to die anytime. He told Elder Blackburn he is completely alone and wants to make changes in his life, he sees the companionship the Elders have with each other when they come here and wants something like that in his life before he dies. The Ezulwini missionaries were called and they came and met with him and gave him the 1st discussion and made a follow up appointment. Perhaps he can prepare himself to face death with his life in order. Very sad. So many of the same stories here in Swaziland.
2 Jan 2011
We drove to Nhlangano for Church today and such disorganization, it was pitiful; Meetings were at least started on time. When Sister Blackburn went to Relief Society, the President asked her to teach, Sister Blackburn asked her, "don't you have a lesson prepared" she replied "no". So it gave Sister Blackburn an opportunity to discuss how the Relief Society is supposed to be organized and staffed, who does what. Everything put on the chalkboard so they could see what organization they needed to put into place. Sister Blackburn challenged them to accept their callings and to do them, she quoted to them, "we follow Christ, Christ served, so we MUST serve." They have a challenge to get staffed and start to function. Sister Blackburn then had a meeting with Branch President Bulunga and explained the challenges she had given the Relief Society and he must allow them to happen. So, we shall see. 2 hour drive back to Ezulwini, then a cloud burst so the rest of the day at home.
We received a telephone call in the morning from a young man by the name of Gift, he asked to be baptized, we contacted the Manzini Elders, since he lives in Ngwenya Park area and picked the Elders up at their boarding, then went to find Gift, after much searching and calls we picked up a young man to show us where Gift lives; Gift did not want to have the lessons with his parents, "they are sceptical" so the Elders found a place outside to teach him. He will have a lesson tomorrow and probably Sunday. His sister was invited to join him for the lessons, hopefully she will and relieve her parents anxiety concerning the Church.
Elders were invited for the evening; dinner was barbequed hamburgers, home made buns, potato salad, cilli beans and cookies. Elder Shibambo needed to fill out an accident report on the broken tail light on his bakki after about 30 minutes of explanations, Elder Blackburn determined that they were driving too fast in a rain storm, the bakki was fishtailing all over the road and they hit an embankment. They watched their slide show of themselves for the year 2010 and enjoyed it tremendously; then watched Harry and the Hendersons, the first time many of the African Elders had seen a movie made for the theaters. Much laughter; then they wanted to know the history of "Hurrah for Israel", Sister Blackburn had printed a copy and had Elder Ng'Anda read it to everyone else, after that they were determined to give the best Hurrah for Israel they had ever given. It made the house shake. Now they will do that after every District and Zone Meeting. They left at 8:30 after they had done the dishes for Sister Blackburn; they were "In and Safe" by 9:30p.m.
1 Jan 2011
Today has been a very slow day, we find we have been sleepy and sleeping almost all day. Elder Blackburn was sleeping on the couch and the young man who tends the horses here at Twiggs Garden wanted to talk with him about having the missionary lessons, he is HIV positive and thought he would die 2 years ago and is expecting to die anytime. He told Elder Blackburn he is completely alone and wants to make changes in his life, he sees the companionship the Elders have with each other when they come here and wants something like that in his life before he dies. The Ezulwini missionaries were called and they came and met with him and gave him the 1st discussion and made a follow up appointment. Perhaps he can prepare himself to face death with his life in order. Very sad. So many of the same stories here in Swaziland.
2 Jan 2011
We drove to Nhlangano for Church today and such disorganization, it was pitiful; Meetings were at least started on time. When Sister Blackburn went to Relief Society, the President asked her to teach, Sister Blackburn asked her, "don't you have a lesson prepared" she replied "no". So it gave Sister Blackburn an opportunity to discuss how the Relief Society is supposed to be organized and staffed, who does what. Everything put on the chalkboard so they could see what organization they needed to put into place. Sister Blackburn challenged them to accept their callings and to do them, she quoted to them, "we follow Christ, Christ served, so we MUST serve." They have a challenge to get staffed and start to function. Sister Blackburn then had a meeting with Branch President Bulunga and explained the challenges she had given the Relief Society and he must allow them to happen. So, we shall see. 2 hour drive back to Ezulwini, then a cloud burst so the rest of the day at home.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Still December 2010
20 Dec 2010
This was the day we had the Elders over to learn how to make Christmas cookies; Elder and Sister Hudson arrived from Ladysmith to spend 2 days with us before the other couples arrived. they were impressed with the Elders cooking and watching the movie It's a Wonderful Life. President Von Stetten had given permission for them to view this film. Elder Wark said, "this is now my favorite movie". After the Elders left we went to the Chinese Restaurant for dinner, Sister Blackburn felt she really deserved to be waited on for dinner. After their party the missionaries exchanged small gifts.
21 Dec 2010
We spent the day showing the Hudsons the shopping areas then came back to Ezulwini to greet the other couples who had arrived : Davis, Zweifel, Ward, Allred, Berry, Nuzman, so 16 of us went to the Great Taipei Restaurant, and everyone said it was the best Chinese food in the whole mission, must be because Sister Blackburn enjoyed her meal there again.
22 Dec 2010
Took couples who were here tourist shopping at the Silver shop, Manzini and at Swazi Candle; then we took them and left them at the Cultural Center while we did some errands to have the Chapel ready when President Von Stetten and the Dahleys arrived. After they arrived we had dinner at the Boma Restaurant and then went to the Ezulwini Chapel for a meeting and get to know you. President Von Stetten informed us that our designation as couple missionaries have been changed to "Leadership and Training Missionaries:".
23 Dec 2010
Our mini Safari was scheduled for today at Mkhaya and it turned out to be the hottest day of the year 108 degrees fareinheit. 3 Sisters fainted and we had to end the safari drive early and most everyone was glad to get out of the sun. Not very many animals could be found, they were hiding in the shade. We will not do a Safari again in the summer months. After everyone had rested we went to Summerfield for dinner, President and Sister Von Stetten was presented with a drum that had their family names carved on it; all the couples were given a small roundavel tree ornament as a remembrance of their trip to Swaziland. President Von Stetten said the reputation of Summerfield was not as good as being there.
Everyone left today to their assigned areas except Elder and Sister Ward, they will spend the weekend with us. President Von Stetten decided to visit the Silversmith for some shopping. Elder Blackburn went to Timbali Lodge to tell everyone goodby and wish them a safe journey. Three couples had a 14 hour drive in front of them.
Elder and Sister Ward drove and we went to check out the Tree Canopy tour for when their children come in February, we were able to see quite a few of the Swazi "warriors" on their way to the Incwala, where they dance with the King and celebrate the first fruits of the harvest, then we watched It's a Wonderful Life in the evening then early to bed. Everyone was so tired.
25 Dec
Elder Blackburn gave Sister Blackburn a silver and giraffe hair ring; he received a silver elephant lapel pin; We had blueberry muffins for breakfast. We then drove to Hlane to check out the self drive safari for the Wards for when their children come to visit; we were very disappointed, no animals were out and the roads were really muddy and we came close to getting stuck; Elder Blackburn and Elder Ward had great fun with the mud holes. This was the mud hole Elder Blackburn picked up a log under the car and a punctured tire. Another reason not to go on a Safari in the summer months.
26 Dec 2010
We attend all three branches today, we needed to deliver Patriarchal Blessings and Seminary information to the Branches. Manzini was showing the Christmas Devotional and did not know they were supposed to have Sacrament too so they learned something good. Then to Ezulwini and met up with the Wards and one of the newly baptized members was very distraught, she was having problems with her children and wanted to talk with Sister Blackburn, Sister Blackburn tried to comfort her and explained that every mother has shed tears over their children and then suggested that she have a blessing from President Shongwe, Elder Blackburn and Elder Ward; we then went to Mbabane where Elder Blackburn performed the baptism of Sister Regina Craig. A day well spent in service to the Swaziland Saints. (Elder Hudson said that he had not seen any missionaries as busy as Elder and Sister Blackburn).
27 Dec 2010
Took Elder and Sister Ward to Ezulwini Market before leaving for home and then to the Manzini Market for fabric; the Manzini Elders called us while in Manzini and their Bakki was broken so we went to find them, advised them to get a tow truck, but they found a mechanic and spent their pday getting their bakki fixed. Elder and Sister Ward and we noticed our car had a flat tire(courtesy of the mud holes at the game park). We took the tire off and took it to the shop to get it repaired, we were glad to get a little rest before Elder Blackburn drove to Mbabane to set a missionary apart before leaving the next day for Johannesburg MTC. President Siko and the Mbabane missionaries were there for him.
Glad to see our bed.
28 Dec 2010
Went to the airport in Masapha to see that Boysie Dlamini got on the plane ok; his family was there to see him off. Good experience. We were glad to have half a day to rest.
29 Dec 2010
Went to Manzini to get meat from our Butchery for a barbeque on Friday with the Elders; President has said they can spend New Years's Eve with us so they will not be stuck in their flat. Bought groceries for next week, went to a petrol station and picked up money the Elders had overpaid. Very hot today.
This was the day we had the Elders over to learn how to make Christmas cookies; Elder and Sister Hudson arrived from Ladysmith to spend 2 days with us before the other couples arrived. they were impressed with the Elders cooking and watching the movie It's a Wonderful Life. President Von Stetten had given permission for them to view this film. Elder Wark said, "this is now my favorite movie". After the Elders left we went to the Chinese Restaurant for dinner, Sister Blackburn felt she really deserved to be waited on for dinner. After their party the missionaries exchanged small gifts.
21 Dec 2010
We spent the day showing the Hudsons the shopping areas then came back to Ezulwini to greet the other couples who had arrived : Davis, Zweifel, Ward, Allred, Berry, Nuzman, so 16 of us went to the Great Taipei Restaurant, and everyone said it was the best Chinese food in the whole mission, must be because Sister Blackburn enjoyed her meal there again.
At the Manzini Market
22 Dec 2010
Took couples who were here tourist shopping at the Silver shop, Manzini and at Swazi Candle; then we took them and left them at the Cultural Center while we did some errands to have the Chapel ready when President Von Stetten and the Dahleys arrived. After they arrived we had dinner at the Boma Restaurant and then went to the Ezulwini Chapel for a meeting and get to know you. President Von Stetten informed us that our designation as couple missionaries have been changed to "Leadership and Training Missionaries:".
23 Dec 2010
Our mini Safari was scheduled for today at Mkhaya and it turned out to be the hottest day of the year 108 degrees fareinheit. 3 Sisters fainted and we had to end the safari drive early and most everyone was glad to get out of the sun. Not very many animals could be found, they were hiding in the shade. We will not do a Safari again in the summer months. After everyone had rested we went to Summerfield for dinner, President and Sister Von Stetten was presented with a drum that had their family names carved on it; all the couples were given a small roundavel tree ornament as a remembrance of their trip to Swaziland. President Von Stetten said the reputation of Summerfield was not as good as being there.
Black Rhino in Mkhaya
Dinner at Summerfield
Von Stetten's receiving their drum
24 Dec 2010Everyone left today to their assigned areas except Elder and Sister Ward, they will spend the weekend with us. President Von Stetten decided to visit the Silversmith for some shopping. Elder Blackburn went to Timbali Lodge to tell everyone goodby and wish them a safe journey. Three couples had a 14 hour drive in front of them.
Elder and Sister Ward drove and we went to check out the Tree Canopy tour for when their children come in February, we were able to see quite a few of the Swazi "warriors" on their way to the Incwala, where they dance with the King and celebrate the first fruits of the harvest, then we watched It's a Wonderful Life in the evening then early to bed. Everyone was so tired.
25 Dec
26 Dec 2010
We attend all three branches today, we needed to deliver Patriarchal Blessings and Seminary information to the Branches. Manzini was showing the Christmas Devotional and did not know they were supposed to have Sacrament too so they learned something good. Then to Ezulwini and met up with the Wards and one of the newly baptized members was very distraught, she was having problems with her children and wanted to talk with Sister Blackburn, Sister Blackburn tried to comfort her and explained that every mother has shed tears over their children and then suggested that she have a blessing from President Shongwe, Elder Blackburn and Elder Ward; we then went to Mbabane where Elder Blackburn performed the baptism of Sister Regina Craig. A day well spent in service to the Swaziland Saints. (Elder Hudson said that he had not seen any missionaries as busy as Elder and Sister Blackburn).
27 Dec 2010
Took Elder and Sister Ward to Ezulwini Market before leaving for home and then to the Manzini Market for fabric; the Manzini Elders called us while in Manzini and their Bakki was broken so we went to find them, advised them to get a tow truck, but they found a mechanic and spent their pday getting their bakki fixed. Elder and Sister Ward and we noticed our car had a flat tire(courtesy of the mud holes at the game park). We took the tire off and took it to the shop to get it repaired, we were glad to get a little rest before Elder Blackburn drove to Mbabane to set a missionary apart before leaving the next day for Johannesburg MTC. President Siko and the Mbabane missionaries were there for him.
Glad to see our bed.
28 Dec 2010
Went to the airport in Masapha to see that Boysie Dlamini got on the plane ok; his family was there to see him off. Good experience. We were glad to have half a day to rest.
29 Dec 2010
Went to Manzini to get meat from our Butchery for a barbeque on Friday with the Elders; President has said they can spend New Years's Eve with us so they will not be stuck in their flat. Bought groceries for next week, went to a petrol station and picked up money the Elders had overpaid. Very hot today.
More in December 2010
15 Dec 2010
We went with President Jerome Shongwe to the Ministry of Justice to try and secure the test for the Branch Presidents to become Marriage Agents and perform marriages. We got nowhere, the lady in charge wanted us to pay to send our Branch Presidents to her Church for training. So we came home and sent a letter about the experience to President Von Stetten asking if we should get the Area Legal Office involved and he forwarded the letter to the Area Presidency, so now we will wait.
Ezulwini Branch held their Christmas party and the pictures tell the story!!! When Elder Blackburn and Sister Blackburn shared the food with the Saints they were so surprised that we would eat with them. Evidently past couple missionaries did not share their food. We were truly accepted at this party.
Ezulwini Branch Conference
What we can remember, Dec 2010
We decided not to give gifts to the Elders and instead decided to give the gift of a tradition, making and delivering Christmas cookies; many cookies were made and our Elders delivered a plate to each family in our complex, white and black. Then it was time for a gift exchange; each one brought a gift, we placed a number on it and wrote the same numbers on slips of paper they could draw. They had a great time.
Couples conference at Summerfield. great dinner had by all.
Tom decided to buy a Christmas tree; he put the lights on, all the time, wishing for Barbara to come a do the job for him. Then Sister Blackburn put the other decorations on it.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Christmas Party Week
06 Dec 2010
We went to the Butchery today and picked up the hams for the area Christmas Party in New Castle. They were so yummy looking. We are anxious to go, it is good to get a break from our area and see other couples; Sister Ward called tonight and the caterer she had asked to do the dinner cancelled. So the Sister half of the Couple Missionaries will have to cook the whole dinner and clean up..... (am not looking forward to all that work).
08 Dec 2010
We got up early to go to the store in Mbabane to pick up large can of sliced apples for the desert. We finally left the country at 8:30a.m. We had rain and fog on the way, we have had rain for so many days, are not counting anymore. Everything smell mouldy. Arrived in New Castle 12:30. We met the Wards at the Church, they were finishing their Zone Meeting; the Elders set up the tables and chairs; Half of the Chapel was set for the Zone Conference the other half for a party. Sister Ward informed Sister Hudson and myself that the District President's Counselor and his wife will decorate the tables and come and clean up for us. What a relief. We went to lunch - then the Hudsons went home to do their share of the cooking and Sister Ward and Sister Blackburn went to the Ward's home and started preparing their share of the food - potatoe casserole, apple crisp and ham. Elder Blackburn sliced all 3 hams. We prepared the pineapple brown sugar glaze for them. There was a big thunder and lightening storm tonight. We finally went to bed about 9:30pm (all tuckered out).
09 Dec 2010
Up early and took the food to the Church, the decorated tables were absolutely beautiful; Everything looked wonderful. Sister Von Stetten came into the room and just stopped, she teared up when she saw how beautiful the room was. We let her know the District President's Counselor and his wife had done the decorating and would come back and clean up for us. She was so overwhelmed. We had a good Zone Conference with New Castle and Swaziland in 100% attendance; the Elders ate all the food, nothing at all was left to snack on later (ham bones). We had a big rain storm all afternoon; good thing everything was inside. The Rain stopped about the time everything was over with. After dinner and games, we walked into the kitchen and it was sparkling clean, it was wonderful. We went back to the Ward's house and just crashed.
10 Dec 2010
We went to the Game store and bought a larger crock pot and a Christmas Tree; Elder Blackburn decided he would not be a scrooge after all and enjoy the season. Then we drove back to Swaziland, it was a beautiful sunny day and the drive was really enjoyable.
11 Dec 2010
Put up the Christmas tree; it took us all day, we had to move things around; we did not go anywhere, just stayed home and prepared for Sunday. We have been challenged to read 3 pages a day in the Book of Mormon along with anyother studying we should do.
12 Dec 2010
We went to Mbabane for Church. Elder Blackburn had several interviews to do; One young man is getting married on the 17th and it was a first Temple Recommend for him. He had 5 interviews for Temple Recommends and he really enjoys those visits. Wish we could go with him, however we have a lot to do to get ready for the Couples to come to Swaziland and we have to buy a refrigerator, the Ezulwini Elders' fridg stopped working and we gave them ours so they would not eat food that may be slightly spoiled. The Relief Society in Mbabane had exchanged gifts and were discussing other things that need to be brought to the attention of the District President. The men ignore the women and they are not getting trained the way they should.
13 Dec 2010
We went to Manzini and Mbabane to check out Refrigerators and bought one in Mbabane, not as big as we wanted but prices are up compared to 4 months ago, maybe because it is Christmas and the Swazi people do give gifts to each other. We came back and started cleaning house; the kitchen was first to get ready for delivery of the appliances. We also bought a small fridge for the Elders; with 4 in the apartment they need more than just one medium size fridge.
14 Dec 2010
Took our area rugs up so they could be taken to Mbabane for cleaning; the white tile was so stained with red dirt that Sister Blackburn had to use orange oil cleaner to clean it; the window ledges and security bars got a good cleaning too. Cooked some brownies for the Elders District Meeting tomorrow; they will have it at our house and we will be gone, we have to go to a government department and try to get them to give our Branch Presidents the authority to perform marriages; the District feels that Elder and Sister Blackburn can have more success than they can.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Wheel Chair and the last 2 weeks
05 Dec 2010
Sunday and Fast Sunday at that. We had a good day today, accomplished a lot. We went to Manzini for Sacrament and to take a wheel chair for Sister Ncami, the chair was provided by the Humanitarian Department and the Elders brought it back from their trip to Durban for transfers this week. Sistr Ncami was so pleased with the Chair. Elder Blackburn took President Mahlalela so that the President could present the wheel chair to her. Sister Ntshalintshali met with Sister Blackburn today and gave her the plan for how the sewing machines will be handled, Elder Blackburn took the plan to District Council Meeting and President Simelane approved the plan with minor changes to the amount charged for maintenance. Sister Simelane came up to Sister Blackburn and said, "My husband says we are getting sewing machines and I must learn how to sew!" She was excited about the project. Elder Blackburn took a time line to District Council meeting to help the Bretheren get their meeting over on time, they were very pleased with how the meeting progressed.
04 Dec 2010
What a day!! The Shongwe girls were supposed to meet with Sister Blackburn to finish Sipewe's PEF application, they were very late and called Elder Blackburn, that they "had trouble with transport". They had walked about 5 miles and were just very tired and were only half way here. We got the papers filled out and faxed to Elder Allen, we will mail the originals to him. Then Maquoba Shongwe called and wanted help with his PEF application, when he finally got here, his papers were not ready, we had to give him a list of things to get collected and will meet with him again on Monday afternoon. Then we took the girls to the Armstrong residence, Sister Armstrong is ill and they were going to visit her. While we were there, Sister Armstrong had an attack of stomach spasms and Elder Blackburn and Brother Armstrong gave her a blessing of health. Then their little girl asked for a blessing also, that was also done with much love. Brother Armstrong expressed a feeling of inadequacy in giving blessings, Elder Blackburn explained to him how it is done and encouraged him to give his family Father's Blessings. Then we went to the Primary Christmas Party in Manzini, it was not quite what we are used to. Elder Blackburn discovered that he can eat with his fingers, he had just forgotten how, childhood was so long ago. The Children were really enjoying themselves. Sister Blackburn asked the Sisters if Swaziland had Christmas Traditions and they did not know what she was talking about, Sister Blackburn then asked, "Do you have Christmas Trees", the answer was no. "Do you do Santa Clause?" the answer was no, "Do you exchange gifts?" the answer, some people are starting to do that. All in all, a very long day, but very productive.
Sunday and Fast Sunday at that. We had a good day today, accomplished a lot. We went to Manzini for Sacrament and to take a wheel chair for Sister Ncami, the chair was provided by the Humanitarian Department and the Elders brought it back from their trip to Durban for transfers this week. Sistr Ncami was so pleased with the Chair. Elder Blackburn took President Mahlalela so that the President could present the wheel chair to her. Sister Ntshalintshali met with Sister Blackburn today and gave her the plan for how the sewing machines will be handled, Elder Blackburn took the plan to District Council Meeting and President Simelane approved the plan with minor changes to the amount charged for maintenance. Sister Simelane came up to Sister Blackburn and said, "My husband says we are getting sewing machines and I must learn how to sew!" She was excited about the project. Elder Blackburn took a time line to District Council meeting to help the Bretheren get their meeting over on time, they were very pleased with how the meeting progressed.
04 Dec 2010
What a day!! The Shongwe girls were supposed to meet with Sister Blackburn to finish Sipewe's PEF application, they were very late and called Elder Blackburn, that they "had trouble with transport". They had walked about 5 miles and were just very tired and were only half way here. We got the papers filled out and faxed to Elder Allen, we will mail the originals to him. Then Maquoba Shongwe called and wanted help with his PEF application, when he finally got here, his papers were not ready, we had to give him a list of things to get collected and will meet with him again on Monday afternoon. Then we took the girls to the Armstrong residence, Sister Armstrong is ill and they were going to visit her. While we were there, Sister Armstrong had an attack of stomach spasms and Elder Blackburn and Brother Armstrong gave her a blessing of health. Then their little girl asked for a blessing also, that was also done with much love. Brother Armstrong expressed a feeling of inadequacy in giving blessings, Elder Blackburn explained to him how it is done and encouraged him to give his family Father's Blessings. Then we went to the Primary Christmas Party in Manzini, it was not quite what we are used to. Elder Blackburn discovered that he can eat with his fingers, he had just forgotten how, childhood was so long ago. The Children were really enjoying themselves. Sister Blackburn asked the Sisters if Swaziland had Christmas Traditions and they did not know what she was talking about, Sister Blackburn then asked, "Do you have Christmas Trees", the answer was no. "Do you do Santa Clause?" the answer was no, "Do you exchange gifts?" the answer, some people are starting to do that. All in all, a very long day, but very productive.
03 Dec 2010
We went to the American Embassy to pick up Elder Blackburn's passport, he needed more pages added.
We went to Manzini to look for new furniture for our house, we gave the new Elders our 2 seater couch.
We paid a few bills. A lot of driving.
02 Dec 2010
Transfer day, Elders came back from Durban and brought the wheel chair for the Manzini Sister, Elder Blackburn will contact President Mahlalela for delivery to the Sister. Ezulwini was sent 2 new Elders so the area can be expanded. 3 new Elders for Swaziland, Elder Ockwig left for the good old USA and home. We sent a small gift via him to Rachel, (so they can meet). He will be attending BYU in January.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
World wide training on Handbook
20 Nov 2010
Went grocery shopping this morning, early, so the store would not be crowded. Couldn't find cranberries. We had bought some dried ones in South Africa. Am trying to reconstitute them and make sauce. They sure don't look very appetizing. We went to Manzini for the World Wide Training on the new Handbook of Instructions; the DVD was hooked up to a laptop and was not successful, had to bring the television out of the strong room and hook it up, then no problems. After the meeting, Elder Blackburn was talking with President Shongwe and Sister Jill and President Shongwe asked Sister Jill "where is your calendar?" she replied "you have the calendar", he said "I want a calendar of the Relief Society events" she replied "What events, we don't do anything". They have never calendared ANYTHING. A whole new concept for everyone. I don't think there will be a calendar!!! Relief Society needs so much training here, they even think that they can only have 1 teacher and she is the "Relief Society Teacher"!! Sister Blackburn told the new Relief Society President in Ezulwini, after her Teacher was sustained that "now you need 2 more teachers" and she was so shocked that she needed more. We had over 50 at the Training Meeting, these leaders are so concerned and want to do everything right. It will be fun to see how they implement the new concepts.
19 Nov 2010
We went over to the new Church to see how the remode is progressing and they had the old roof off and were putting new tin on so Sister Blackburn telephone the Elders and asked them to take some of the old tin and one of the old doors over to Sister Jill's house, she had said her roof leaked. The Elders were very good to come right away and do that. They will probably schedule a service day and go put the tin on for her.
Went grocery shopping this morning, early, so the store would not be crowded. Couldn't find cranberries. We had bought some dried ones in South Africa. Am trying to reconstitute them and make sauce. They sure don't look very appetizing. We went to Manzini for the World Wide Training on the new Handbook of Instructions; the DVD was hooked up to a laptop and was not successful, had to bring the television out of the strong room and hook it up, then no problems. After the meeting, Elder Blackburn was talking with President Shongwe and Sister Jill and President Shongwe asked Sister Jill "where is your calendar?" she replied "you have the calendar", he said "I want a calendar of the Relief Society events" she replied "What events, we don't do anything". They have never calendared ANYTHING. A whole new concept for everyone. I don't think there will be a calendar!!! Relief Society needs so much training here, they even think that they can only have 1 teacher and she is the "Relief Society Teacher"!! Sister Blackburn told the new Relief Society President in Ezulwini, after her Teacher was sustained that "now you need 2 more teachers" and she was so shocked that she needed more. We had over 50 at the Training Meeting, these leaders are so concerned and want to do everything right. It will be fun to see how they implement the new concepts.
19 Nov 2010
We went over to the new Church to see how the remode is progressing and they had the old roof off and were putting new tin on so Sister Blackburn telephone the Elders and asked them to take some of the old tin and one of the old doors over to Sister Jill's house, she had said her roof leaked. The Elders were very good to come right away and do that. They will probably schedule a service day and go put the tin on for her.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Patriarch Courtney
18 Nov 2010
Went to Manzini to try and find a Truck Driving School for Elder Mbuli, talked with Elder Allen of PEF and he will accept the application (finally), after we talked with Elder Blackburn's brother Bill to help us get this rolling for this young returned missionary. It was great to get out of the house, still cloudy and may get rain today too.
13 Nov 2010
Elder Blackburn and Patriarch went to Nhlangano to conduct interviews and give Patriarchal Blessings - 7 blessings were given, each blessing takes 1 hour so he was very tired when he finished. Sister Blackburn had dinner waiting when they got back to Ezulwini. Sister Blackburn had several young adults over to learn how to Line Dance, she gave them lunch of Chicken Enchiladas and pumpkin pie, they thoroughly enjoyed their day. The had to show the Patriarch and Elder Blackburn, Elder and Sister Cox what they had learned. Patriarch wanted the recipes for Enchiladas and Pumpkin pie.
14 Nov 2010
Went to Manzini for Church, Patriarch Courtney did 4 more blessings there. Sister Blackburn met with Sister Ntshalintshali and District President Simelane to discuss how the sewing machines destined for Swaziland will be taken care of and stored. President Simelane wanted to know who would "own" the machines and Sister Blackburn stated "the women of Swaziland" "with the Relief Society protecting them."
He was much pleased with the project and gave us his ideas on how he would like them stored. We then went to the District Seminary Graduation and about 150 seminary and young adults attended the graduation, Elder and Sister Cox had the Branch Presidents call forward the ones advancing and the ones graduating. It was a really successful event. Elder and Sister Cox, Patriarch Courtney then came to our house for dinner, we served pork roast, mashed potatoes and vegetables with brownies and ice cream for desert; again Patriarch Courtney wanted the recipes to take home. He particularly liked the brownies.
15 Nov 2010
Patriarch and Cox' went back to Durban this morning; we met the Elders and went to the Ngwenya Glass Factory where they use recycled glass to make glasses, statuary, etc. They blow the glass there and allow visitors to watch. Then we took the Elders to Friar Tucks for a buffet luch. Then home to rest.
16 Nov 2010
Went to the Dentist today, one tooth has really been bothering Sister Blackburn; good Dentist, nothing wrong with tooth, just the bite off and hitting the opposing tooth too hard, so he ground it down and we will see.
Met with Sister Wendy Anderson about the Elders boarding in Mbabane to discuss when she will scrape the mould and get the house painted and get the sliding door fixed. She "has been in a mental hospital because she is bipolar and is now on meds and doing much better." Zone Leader and District Leaders left for New Castle for training for 2 days. We picked up 2 pumpkins to cook for Thanksgiving and got one cooked, the electricity went out before the 2nd one got cooked, so we just turned the stove off. It was the worst storm we have had to date.
17 Nov 2010
We stayed home and finished fixing the pumpkin, enough for 6 pies, we will share with Nuzman and Ward Couples. Rained all day and was chilly, we wore sweaters all day and did not go out. Electricity and Internet was on sporadically all day.
Blue Pumpkins but orange inside
13 Nov 2010
Elder Blackburn and Patriarch went to Nhlangano to conduct interviews and give Patriarchal Blessings - 7 blessings were given, each blessing takes 1 hour so he was very tired when he finished. Sister Blackburn had dinner waiting when they got back to Ezulwini. Sister Blackburn had several young adults over to learn how to Line Dance, she gave them lunch of Chicken Enchiladas and pumpkin pie, they thoroughly enjoyed their day. The had to show the Patriarch and Elder Blackburn, Elder and Sister Cox what they had learned. Patriarch wanted the recipes for Enchiladas and Pumpkin pie.
14 Nov 2010
Went to Manzini for Church, Patriarch Courtney did 4 more blessings there. Sister Blackburn met with Sister Ntshalintshali and District President Simelane to discuss how the sewing machines destined for Swaziland will be taken care of and stored. President Simelane wanted to know who would "own" the machines and Sister Blackburn stated "the women of Swaziland" "with the Relief Society protecting them."
He was much pleased with the project and gave us his ideas on how he would like them stored. We then went to the District Seminary Graduation and about 150 seminary and young adults attended the graduation, Elder and Sister Cox had the Branch Presidents call forward the ones advancing and the ones graduating. It was a really successful event. Elder and Sister Cox, Patriarch Courtney then came to our house for dinner, we served pork roast, mashed potatoes and vegetables with brownies and ice cream for desert; again Patriarch Courtney wanted the recipes to take home. He particularly liked the brownies.
15 Nov 2010
Patriarch and Cox' went back to Durban this morning; we met the Elders and went to the Ngwenya Glass Factory where they use recycled glass to make glasses, statuary, etc. They blow the glass there and allow visitors to watch. Then we took the Elders to Friar Tucks for a buffet luch. Then home to rest.
16 Nov 2010
Went to the Dentist today, one tooth has really been bothering Sister Blackburn; good Dentist, nothing wrong with tooth, just the bite off and hitting the opposing tooth too hard, so he ground it down and we will see.
Met with Sister Wendy Anderson about the Elders boarding in Mbabane to discuss when she will scrape the mould and get the house painted and get the sliding door fixed. She "has been in a mental hospital because she is bipolar and is now on meds and doing much better." Zone Leader and District Leaders left for New Castle for training for 2 days. We picked up 2 pumpkins to cook for Thanksgiving and got one cooked, the electricity went out before the 2nd one got cooked, so we just turned the stove off. It was the worst storm we have had to date.
17 Nov 2010
We stayed home and finished fixing the pumpkin, enough for 6 pies, we will share with Nuzman and Ward Couples. Rained all day and was chilly, we wore sweaters all day and did not go out. Electricity and Internet was on sporadically all day.
Friday, November 12, 2010
Kruger National Park and the week
A large herd of Cape buffalo
a closer look at the herd of Cape Buffalo
An Elephant, one of manyWe saw many, many elephant; a great herd of Cape Buffalo which Elder Blackburn said "made the trip worthwhile"; Pretty Ugly to me. Giraffe in the distance, we have seen a lot of them; a Wild Dog it was also pretty ugly; We enjoyed the beautiful mountain scenery during the drive. We had hoped to see some big cats; but the employees said they were hiding today. It really was a good relaxing day.
4 Nov 2010
We went to the immigration department to get our work permits; we stood in line about 4 hours and went to 3 different doors, such inefficiency; we did get the permits; Sister Blackburn could not get her passport stamped there was not enough pages, so now we have to go to the American Embassy and get pages added which will cost $160 American Dollars, pretty excessive charges for a few pages of photo copied paper. We feel it is amazing how much it costs to live in a 3rd world country, because they have so little, what they do have they charge a lot for. We paid someone to wash our car while it was parked in the parking lot at the embassy. Not unusual for someone to watch the cars, wash the cars and help you back out of your parking place, all for a few cents.
7 Nov 2010
Went to Church in Ezulwini, stayed for all three meetings, new converts shared their testimony and we were impressed with the strength of their conversion. We had cooked a roast for dinner and we sure did enjoy it with mashed potatoes, veg, ice cream. etc.
8 Nov 2010
Manzini Elders went to Nhlangano for a baptism interview and a situation was revealed wherein the investigator had been a polygamous wife, her husband has passed away, however she still lives next door to her sister wife. She lives in GeGe. Elder Blackburn will have to call Mission President before baptism can happen.
9 Nov 2010
Woke up to rain, rain, rain all day; heavy thunder and lightening; We just stayed home and studied.
10 Nov 2010
Still heavy storms; Elders came to our house for their District Meeting and they stay too long; they didn't want to go back out into the storms anymore than we did. They left about 2:00pm after peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and watermelon. First melon of the season and was perfect not like the first one we had bought here. We were finally informed that the natives will cook green watermelon and eat it that way.
We bought a blue pumpkin from roadside market, and Sister Blackburn was assured it was orange inside. The girl selling the produced picked one out for us, when we got home it was orange inside, got a recipe off internet - Food Network to cook it. It cooked really good and then put it in a blender and guess what? we are going to have real pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving.
11 Nov 2010
Beautiful day, Elder Mbuli came and washed the car (I guess we have hired him every week). After the first request to wash our car, he just keeps coming back each week. Good thing the car needs washing all the red mud. Elder Blackburn went to the Ezulwini Elders Boarding to wait for the repair man. They are getting electric shocks when they shower. Went to the grocery store and spent R1050. our refrigerator was like Old Mother Hubbard's Cupboard. We found a turkey for Thanksgiving, grown in Minnesota by Jennie O.
It cost us $35.00 American Dollars, but we figuered we would spend that much on chickens to feed the Elders. Talked with Sister Ward last night to plan the Christmas Party for the New Castle and Swaziland District, we had a three way with Sister Hudson, husband had to put their voices in too. So Elder Hudson is going to use Butternut Squash instead of Sweet Potatoes - that will be interesting. Sister Ward asked me to stop at Spars market in Bollito where we get some American products and see if I could find Libbys Pumpkin, I assured her I would bring her some pumpkin and she kept insisting it had to be "Orange" She was skeptical that I had pumpkin for pies.
12 Nov 2010
Patriarch Courtney is coming today, he will be giving Patriarchal Blessings for 3 days. Elder and Sister Cox is bringing him with them and he will stay with us. The Cox' have Seminary Graduation this weekend.
We woke up today with no water, so we got dressed and went to Mbabane to the US Embassy to pick up Sister Blackburn's Passport, she now has lots of new pages to get stamped. Our water was finally fixed at 3:30pm today. What a nuisiance this old house is. Elder Blackburn has gone to Manzini to conduct Patriarchal Blessing Interviews so the Patriarch can do his work.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Learning about Electricity
The Elders called and needed new light bulbs, they have been complaining about light bulbs for months. We bought a couple of boxes and took them to the Mbabane Elders, Elder Blackburn put one in and they said "see, something is wrong with the electricity, they won't work." Elder Blackburn walked over, FLIPPED THE SWITCH and there was light. Elder Mbatini just laughed and laughed, he thought that was so funny.
So then we went to Conference at the Mbabane Chapel and they could't get the DVD player to work; some one went down the street to get another one, meantime Elder Blackburn plugged in a cord and still would not play and then Sister Blackburn said, "Push play". there was Conference at the push of a Button. Elder Mbatani was almost in hysterics over this one. Sometimes we forget that some of these young men come from homes without electricity or even furniture of any kind. So we have had 2 days of Conference, have not seen 100% of Conference in years. It was worth the time spent, I think we will go to the Church when we get home instead of being so comfortable at home we just fall asleep.
So then we went to Conference at the Mbabane Chapel and they could't get the DVD player to work; some one went down the street to get another one, meantime Elder Blackburn plugged in a cord and still would not play and then Sister Blackburn said, "Push play". there was Conference at the push of a Button. Elder Mbatani was almost in hysterics over this one. Sometimes we forget that some of these young men come from homes without electricity or even furniture of any kind. So we have had 2 days of Conference, have not seen 100% of Conference in years. It was worth the time spent, I think we will go to the Church when we get home instead of being so comfortable at home we just fall asleep.
Friday, October 29, 2010
29 Oct 2010
Today started out so slow, we went for a drive to check out a Tree Canopy Tour and they would not let us take our car; we needed a four wheel drive vehicle, too bad we traded our bakki. sometimes we really miss having it, but not when it comes time to pay for gasoline. The country is getting so green and the red dirt really stands out. When we got back there was a telephone call from Elder Atoya in Manzini, had a flat tire and could not find his "spinner" (tire iron). We got the one from the Ezulwini Elders, took it to Manzini and the spare was flat, so took one and found someone willing to stay after work and fix it. It was about 5:00pm. He charged R20 which is about $3.00 American dollars, which is not very much. Elder Blackburn asked Elder Atoya how he got the flat and he said they came to a bridge that had construction work and decided to drive through the river and got a wire stuck in the tire. Sounds just like a MAN in a TRUCK.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
18 Oct 2010
Went with Elders on a mini safari at Hlane Big Game Park it wa a much needed pday after 3 weeks of problems. Brought the Elders together in good fellowship. We took a picnic and had a barbeque then it was time to go to the Internet Cafe at about 2:00 pm; time for letters to family.
19 Oct 2010
When we were in Durban, Sister Harms gave us 9 Nelson Mandela 90th birthday commemorative coins and wanted Sister Blackburn to take them to the silversmith and have necklaces made. The coins belonged to Sisters in the Area Office; Sister Harms asked them to give Sister Blackbur one for being so kind as to take them to the silversmith. Sister Blackburn was really surprised. Sister Cox also packed the Blackburns a box lunch for the drive back to Swaziland on Sunday and that was a surprise too. We did not have to stop and buy food.
20 Oct 2010
Transfer week, the District and Zone Leaders went to Durban to pick up Elders being transferred to Swaziland, Elder Gondo was sent to Losotho for his next area. We got 3 new Elders, Elder Phoshoko, Elder and Elder Ncube, All really good Elders.
22 Oct 2010
Picked up the necklaces at the Swazi Silversmiths.
23 Oct 2010
Went to dinner with Elder and Sister Cox, CES and Elder and Sister Allen PEF - we went to the Chinese restrauant and the food was not very good. We came back to the Blackburn's house for Ice Cream Sundaes. Everyone had a very good visit. Much laughter and discussion about PEF.
24 Oct 2010
Went to Nhlangano for Church, the Saints refused to speak English and Sister Blackburn became really put out at them. The Branch had 45 in attendance only one family. GeGe had 43 in attendance and no priesthood except the Elders.
25 Oct 2010
President Von Stetten held his Mission Presidency meeting at the Blackburn's house on SKYPE. He was not enthused about a branch in GeGe after our experience there. We had chicken enchiladas for dinner after the meeting and everyone felt they were the best ever, after all it is a dish difficult to find the ingredients and put together (of course everyone would enjoy it).
26 Oct 2010
Met with President Mahlalela to get the measurments for a wheel chair for one of his members in the Manzini Branch, we sent the info to Humanitarian in Joburg. Should not be long before we will have to figure a way to get it into Swaziland without paying an exorbitant fee.
27 Oct 2010
Went to Stecki and met with Elder Mamba's Aunti; we took the pictures we had taken before Elder Mamba left so she could have a picture to see. Elder Mashiloane and Elder Mbaiwa went with us since she did not speak any English, they spoke Zulu and she could understand that. She was a little high on snuff so was really animated about the pictures. We then sent an email to Elder Vusu Mamba with another picture of us giving her a Book of Mormon and Liahona and pictures of Christ with the black African child.
28 Oct 2010
Met with Sibusiso Mbuli to help him get a plan together for PEF and get a job soon. He will probably enroll in a EMT course either here in Swazi or South Africa it will give him a job in 3 months, then he can work on future education goals. We also met with Brother Robert and gave him geneaology forms to fill out; we will check back with him in a week to see if he has a question and needs help.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
17 Oct 2010
Went to a Missionary meeting with Elder Holland and the Missionaries in the Durban area, the couples had a special invitation; we had a picture taken of the whole group with front row seats; it was great; Elder Holland gave a great pep talk and firm counsel to the missionaries. The meeting was held in the Berea Building, it was the same building Elder Blackburn attended 50 years ago as a young missionary, it has been kept in very good condition. The house where he lived was no longer there, torn down many years ago to build an apartment building. After the meeting Elder Blackburn and I left for Swaziland. We had a beautiful drive back. Saw a couple of giraffs and a wart hog, we managed to get a picture of the wart hog. It still surprises us at the wildlife we manage to see when we are out driving.
16 Oct 2010
Elder Blackburn, Elder Ward and Elder Hudson went to the 9:00 Priesthood Training Meeting with Elder Holland as the main trainer. All our Swaziland leaders who were invited to come actually came. Elder Holland ended the meeting by shaking everyone's hand. I know our Leaders from Swazi were very impressed with getting to meet an Apostle, they were only planning on hearing him speak and yet because of their faithfulness they got a personal greeting and handshake. The Sisters and I went shopping at the largest mall in Durban, we had a good time and only bought stockings. Met our husbands back at the B&B and went to the Single Adult Fireside then dinner with the Couples, we had a great day. Sister Harms had some Mandela 5 Rand coins she wanted us to get made into necklaces for her associates at the Area Office and they gave me one for getting them done, so Sister Blackburn will have a necklace too. It has become a very rare coin, minted to commemorate his 90th birthday. Sister Cox had packed a lunch for us to eat on the drive back to Swaziland and I really appreciated the good fellowship with these Sisters here in South Africa.
15 Oct 2010
Drove to Durban today, fun drive had rain the whole way, lots of rain. Met everyone at the Mission Home. Took papers for getting the bond to cover driving the vehicles in Swaziland to Elder Davis, now he has the responsibility. Met the Wards and Hudsons at the Mission Home and went to dinner at the Mall food Court. Then checked into our B&B. We were really tired.
16 Oct 2010
Elder Blackburn, Elder Ward and Elder Hudson went to the 9:00 Priesthood Training Meeting with Elder Holland as the main trainer. All our Swaziland leaders who were invited to come actually came. Elder Holland ended the meeting by shaking everyone's hand. I know our Leaders from Swazi were very impressed with getting to meet an Apostle, they were only planning on hearing him speak and yet because of their faithfulness they got a personal greeting and handshake. The Sisters and I went shopping at the largest mall in Durban, we had a good time and only bought stockings. Met our husbands back at the B&B and went to the Single Adult Fireside then dinner with the Couples, we had a great day. Sister Harms had some Mandela 5 Rand coins she wanted us to get made into necklaces for her associates at the Area Office and they gave me one for getting them done, so Sister Blackburn will have a necklace too. It has become a very rare coin, minted to commemorate his 90th birthday. Sister Cox had packed a lunch for us to eat on the drive back to Swaziland and I really appreciated the good fellowship with these Sisters here in South Africa.
15 Oct 2010
Drove to Durban today, fun drive had rain the whole way, lots of rain. Met everyone at the Mission Home. Took papers for getting the bond to cover driving the vehicles in Swaziland to Elder Davis, now he has the responsibility. Met the Wards and Hudsons at the Mission Home and went to dinner at the Mall food Court. Then checked into our B&B. We were really tired.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
14 Oct 2010
Today Elder Blackburn had to go to Manzini to give the Elders money for electricity, they had not watched their prepay gadget and used all of it so they were in the dark. When he got back, we had an appointment with the Ezulwini Elders to give a new member lesson to Brother Robert, he is 82 years old, unheard of in Swaziland. The lesson was on attending the Temple, when they got to the commandment of the Law of Chastity he replied, "I am an old man, I do not visit my wife anymore". I believe he has been always faithful to her. He is still alive and does not have AIDS. We left a copy of the Liahona Temple issue and he was grateful for it and said he would read it with his wife, she was at work today and has not been baptized yet. Tomorrow we drive to Durban for 2 days, Elder Holland will be there for a Stake Conference and Mission Priesthood training. There is a meeting on Sunday Morning for all Missionaries in the area and all the Couple Missionaries have been invited.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Week of October 4, 2010
Quiet week, can't remeber what we did. Rain started Friday night, Saturday we were in Mbabane and they had luckily gotten the roof on so the building did not get wet inside. We have not checked on it this week. We purchased extra mattresses for the Elders when they have sleep overs, we also purchased a new stove for Mbabane, a new washer for Nhlangano, paid their waterbills up to date. Saturday night we had a terrible storm, electricity was out Saturday night, all day Sunday and off and on Monday. Good thing we like sandwiches. I guess the rainy season has finally arrived and we are enjoying it. Half of July, all of August and all of September there was not a drop of rain and everything was so dusty and dry.
11 Oct 2010
All the Elders decided to hike Sibebe mountain and we decided we would not go, too hot. We paid their bills. They do not have much left to see them through the month, so we will make them budget their wants. We decided we had to get an answer for the Mission Home on getting the vehicles registered here in Swaziland, so we called the police department to find out how; they did not call us back so we went to the Ministry of Transportation, they sent us to the Police Headquarters and a very nice policeman discussed the situation and advised us that the Church should purchase a bond that would allow the vehicles to remain in Swaziland and then when the Church takes them back to South Africa there would be a partial refund, so he sent us to the Ministry of Customs where we met with another very nice person who sold us 5 importation forms for the vehicles. The people we met truly tried to help us and were very friendly to us. So we will take the forms to Elder Davis when we go to Durban Friday.
12 Oct 2010
President Von Stetten called the Zone Leader and instructed them to take Elder Mutuku to the PetroPort where they will meet with the Assistants and they will collect Elder Mutuku and take him to the Mission Home. This surprised everyone. The contractor has started the renovation on the building for the Ezulwini Branch, we hope it will be finished within a month. We had rain all night. Not a storm though; we are thankful to have had electricity.
13 Oct 2010
District Development Meeting this morning, we have noticed a great improvement in the quality of these meetings when they are held in our home, the Elders are also really striving to implement their training in "Teaching with the Spirit". Elder Blackburn spoke with President Von Stetten and Elder Mutuku is on his way home. That made us very sad. When they get caught up in flirtations it always leads to disaster. We decided not to inform the District at this time, they will hear soon enough. Elder Manqoba Shongwe came home from his mission tonight, we went to the airport with his family and then to the Manzini Chapel where the electricity was out; we still went inside, used the flashlights on the cell phones and Elder Blackburn had the opportunity to extend an honorable release to him; he shed a few tears and really did not want to take his missionary badge off. After all it represents the quality of men we have in the Church and known world wide as a "badge of honor in teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ". Looks like rain all night, we really do love the rain.
11 Oct 2010
All the Elders decided to hike Sibebe mountain and we decided we would not go, too hot. We paid their bills. They do not have much left to see them through the month, so we will make them budget their wants. We decided we had to get an answer for the Mission Home on getting the vehicles registered here in Swaziland, so we called the police department to find out how; they did not call us back so we went to the Ministry of Transportation, they sent us to the Police Headquarters and a very nice policeman discussed the situation and advised us that the Church should purchase a bond that would allow the vehicles to remain in Swaziland and then when the Church takes them back to South Africa there would be a partial refund, so he sent us to the Ministry of Customs where we met with another very nice person who sold us 5 importation forms for the vehicles. The people we met truly tried to help us and were very friendly to us. So we will take the forms to Elder Davis when we go to Durban Friday.
12 Oct 2010
President Von Stetten called the Zone Leader and instructed them to take Elder Mutuku to the PetroPort where they will meet with the Assistants and they will collect Elder Mutuku and take him to the Mission Home. This surprised everyone. The contractor has started the renovation on the building for the Ezulwini Branch, we hope it will be finished within a month. We had rain all night. Not a storm though; we are thankful to have had electricity.
13 Oct 2010
District Development Meeting this morning, we have noticed a great improvement in the quality of these meetings when they are held in our home, the Elders are also really striving to implement their training in "Teaching with the Spirit". Elder Blackburn spoke with President Von Stetten and Elder Mutuku is on his way home. That made us very sad. When they get caught up in flirtations it always leads to disaster. We decided not to inform the District at this time, they will hear soon enough. Elder Manqoba Shongwe came home from his mission tonight, we went to the airport with his family and then to the Manzini Chapel where the electricity was out; we still went inside, used the flashlights on the cell phones and Elder Blackburn had the opportunity to extend an honorable release to him; he shed a few tears and really did not want to take his missionary badge off. After all it represents the quality of men we have in the Church and known world wide as a "badge of honor in teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ". Looks like rain all night, we really do love the rain.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Malingas
Week of 26 Sept 2010
Went to Richards Bay and did some shopping, groceries, curling iron and rootbeer, food processor; a very productive day. We met the Nuzman couple at their house; we did not have the coordinates in our Garmin so we had a difficult time finding it, but Elder Blackburn persisted; We went to dinner at a restaurant overlooking the Bay and it was really delicious. The Nuzman's are going to become very good friends. They were concerned about being alone so much and we informed them that Elder Blackburn had put on the agenda for the Presidency Meeting the issue of Couple Missionaries getting together occasionally.
28 Sept 2010
Presidency Meeting at Mission Home with Elder Allred and Elder Ward; Sister Von Stetten took the wives to the Beach, Sister Blackburn wanted to step into the Indian Ocean to see if it was as warm in SA as Thailand and it was not, however not very cold. Sister Von Stetten took us all to dinner that evening; the President had a special meeting with the SA Ambassador from the US. We had a great visit with the Wards again.
29 Sept 2010
Went to Bake a Ton with Elder and Sister Ward - Elder Blakcburn says the name is appropriate for all the baking we do - had to buy some very fine sugar and it is the best place in Africa. Then had to leave for Swaziland to take care of setting apart Nathi for his mission. On the way home we had lunch with Elder and Sister Nuzman. We cooked hamburgers when we got home for the Ezulwini Elders, President Shongwe, Nathi, Elder Mbuli and Elder Shongwe. Elder Blackburn released Elder Mbuli from his mission to Uganda and had a special visit with him. Elder Blackburn then set apart Elder Nathi Nhlambatsi for his mission to Johannesburg.
30 Sept 2010
Elder Blackburn met with the builders about the Ezulwini building. We hope to get started on remodel next week. Then we went to Mbabane to take road tax money to the Elders and the roof of the Mbabane building was being taken off and repaired. It should be finished within 10 days and the Saints will be back in their Chapel.
1 October 2010
Did laundry all day.
2 October 2010
Did laundry all day; we got all the drapes washed so the Elders will have their windows covered.
3 October 2010
Fast Sunday today, Sister Blackburn shared her testimony about "Testimonies being recorded by the Angels - Section 14 of the D&C. Elder Blackburn attended to his District meetings in Manzini and Sister Blackburn had a Sunday afternoon nap. Today was General Conference and we did not want to use all our airtime so we will watch it with the Saints on 23 and 24 of Oct at the meeting house.
4 Oct 2010
Went to Manzini doing errands; looked at a house that is for rent (it was very large, but within our price range) we will think about it for a couple of days. Signed lease agreement for the Ezulwini Elders boarding; we also paid all their water bills. We should be on top of that now they came to $3100.00. And, we picked up 5 nativitie sets for the Couple Missionaries Elder and Sister Knudsen to take home to their children in December.
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