Thursday, January 2, 2014

DECEMBER 2013 TOP THREE


At the end of this beautiful season, we look back and wonder how this experience came to us and are grateful for Heavenly Father's hand in many events that led us here.
At the end of December, we feel that the top three had to do with service we were able to give and receive more of a true "joy" than presents to us could ever bring.  They are just little things, but we felt they were the best-est!
#3 - SECRET SANTA - our good old family tradition of anonymous giving - always brings a warm feeling.  Mosiah - When you are in the service of your fellowman, you are in service of your God.  I think saints all over the world enjoy this tradition. . . it is part of the "magic" of Christmas.
#2 -KIDS R GREAT - Singing songs with and teaching language and reading skills to kids.  It is the kids' summer break and we decided to offer a summer reading program, figuring we would like to have 20 kids participate.  We capped it at 2 groups of 30 and ended up squeezing 36 in one group and 39 in another.  We have had so much support from missionaries and school staff and parents that made it possible to have 5 language centers that they rotate through each day - 2 wks in December, and then 2 wks. in January.  One center each of writing, word practice, one on one reading, vocabulary and listening.  It has been SO fun to associate with young, eager learners.
#1 -  CAROLING -  Christmas Caroling and home-made Cookies with the other missionaries.  We went to a village and sang to the entire village in about 2 hours.  These people know how to sing, but still appreciated our efforts and plates of goodies.  We had suckers to give to the groups of interested children that followed us around.  In their humblest of circumstances they are filled with a good, peaceful spirit and knowledge of our Savior, Jesus Christ.  It radiates in their  beautiful, heartfelt smiles.
ALSO their New Year family dance on the tennis courts was a great, fun-filled event to behold.  Can't stop these people from"getting down" and dancing. . . then fireworks.

We love these Tongans and have learned much from them.  Yes, we missed family and loved ones, but are grateful for these life changing experiences we are having.  We would highly recommend a mission to anyone, if possible. 
We also recognize that each of you are offering great services wherever you are.
Let's carry on another year, and may God bless us, everyone!
Love & blessings from,
Elder & Sister, Ma & Pa, John and Marsha Aland




HANDING OUT CANDY TO THE LITTLE ONES
SISTER ALAND TEACHING READING
CHILDREN FROM VAINI VILLAGE

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