A Day in Mainland China

We finally had the opportunity to visit China (Shenzhen). Ed Ngan (to Lowell's right) is a friend of Pres. & Sister Goo's. He hosted us and gave us VIP treatment, a free lunch and dinner and tickets not only to Splendid China (patterned after the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie Hawaii), but also to Window of the World (featuring miniature replicas of famous world structures) where he owns all of the restaurants. We saw some amazing performances by various Chinese cultural groups decked in their stunning colorful costumes as well as a staged battle by Mongolians riding their steeds and performing various feats of daring and expertise.

Another Granddaughter!

Just because we are distanced from our family by being away serving a mission, doesn't mean life won't continue to go on. Our only married daughter, Stephanie, gave birth Friday morning to a 7 lb. 13 oz. baby girl who they will name Mckinley. Mother, father, and baby are all doing well and isn't she a cutie? She brings to a total three granddaughters among our now eleven grandchildren. We don't feel any older but the numbers are revealing.

McKinley is actually a miracle baby---the results of invitro vertilzation---which only appeared to finally be successful just as we were beginning our mission to Hong Kong. Her parents feel this was a blessing directed to them because of our willingness to serve. The Lord blesses not only the missionaries, but those who they have temporarily left behind as well.

New Patron Housing Opens

The long anticipated completion of the new temple patron housing finally reached a conclusion during the last week of April. Approval for occupancy was given by the government and the first couple (from way up North in China) were able to stay the night there the evening they were sealed. It has a 50-bed capacity and we expect it to be filled to capacity this week with a large group here from Thailand and another group from India.

It is located almost directly across the street from the temple and will eventually also include a chapel (not yet completed) and house the distribution center. It sports a large kitchen and eating area with two refrigerators, a number of restrooms, and laundry facilities. There is even a handicapped restroom facility on the first floor. An open house is slated for July 2010.

We will now have many larger foreign groups booking visits to the temple whereas the lack of this facility has limited the number of individuals who could previously be accommodated.