Thursday, November 19, 2009

SURPRISE FAREWELL

Well, see, this is what happened.
We were asked by Tamara to go with her and Yan to visit an older couple who were interested in learning about the Church. That was fine with us, but we asked if the elders were coming, because they are the ones who would be teaching them. Our friend said she wanted us to meet them first,
just to warm them up for the missionaries.
So after a few more questions, we agreed to go. We followed their car into the country, and they took us all over the valley. We drove for 45 minutes, and retraced our tracks a couple of times. I told Elder Grassli, "I'm not sure they know where this couple lives!" You can see how dense we are, because it didn't even occur to us that there was anything up other than visiting this couple!
All of a sudden they drove us into the forest and there were 25 or 30 of our young friends standing around a fire, and they did this funny little welcome chant, raising their arms above their heads and down, like they were bowing to us.



They had planned a surprise farewell for us!
They were grilling, and a delicious aroma filled the forest!!





Nearby was a forest hut, and you can see it is a nice one--
all wood paneled with a wood stove and tables.
And curtains, no less!
That's where we ate.


Matthew and Kuendri played fun party music and the kids sang traditional Swiss songs and we all had a great time.
We loved every minute of it!!!!
THANK YOU EVERYBODY!
We love you!!!

6 comments:

Michelle Glauser said...

How sweet. Are you doing well?

Omar Hawajri said...

Hi, actually im so surprised and amazing about what really did you do. how sweet?! actually i hope to be with you to enjoy in the forest. from my deep heart i hope to have more anice days..
all best wishes.
love and peace from Palestine-Gaza

Jane Anne said...

How wonderful they did this, what wonderful kids!...it made me smile as I read it...I think you will truly be missed.

Marie said...

wow they are going to really miss you! but that is too bad because it's time for you to COME HOME and see your great grandson!!!

Omar Hawajri said...

hi how wonderful they did do , i think you'll be missed.

actually , im looking forward to be in contact and be true friends.im omar from palestine ,
take care,
love and peace

Cannwin said...

I thought you were going to say they mugged you or tried to cast out your 'evil spirits.'

What a beautiful place to serve a mission. Someday when my husband and I have raised our kids we plan to go on lots of missions. We can't wait!