The Hartzell Line

Pat doing "The Minute Waltz" at Nakano Ward Talent Show

2009-09-06T18:52:00.000-07:00

New Office Couple Elder & Sister Shay

2009-09-06T18:44:00.000-07:00

Dancing and Drumming during Matsuri

2009-08-09T04:46:00.000-07:00

Summer Festival - Matsuri

2009-08-09T04:45:00.000-07:00

This is the stand they built in the middle of our little park. It has two levels, the bottom for dancing, the top for drumming.

There was a big circle and lots of people were dancing, some in yukatas and some in regular clothes.

A close-up of the dancers on the stage.

A cute little girl in her summer yukata with strawberries all over it.

Visiting Yuichi's Cabin in Komoro

2009-08-09T04:38:00.000-07:00

We spent a fun weekend in Komoro, Japan. Our Eikaiwa student, Yuichi, has a family summer home there that they built over 20 years ago. Look at all the lush growth. In one day we had fog, rain, sun, and wind.

We took a walk and tried not to get muddy. Yuichi's car got stuck in the mud a couple of times.

This is our host, Yuichi, on his side porch.

Having breakfast with Yuichi, Kiyoko, Ken, and Mana on the porch. Didn't like the bugs so ate indoors for the other meals.

Our Tribute to the Hills--Hill Highlights

2009-07-05T04:48:00.000-07:00

When we arrived in Japan, one of the first special occasions we shared with the Hills was going to see the Sakura in Nakano. This photo has always been one of our favorites. Thank you, Pres. & Sis. Hill, for your loving kindness and great leadership!!

Hill Highlights

2009-07-05T04:45:00.000-07:00

One of our favorite dai bo-okens was to the Tama Zoo. Sis. Hill loves the butterfly house there and Pres. Hill loves the Lion Bus. We all had a great time!!

Pres. & Sis. Hill at Nikko Park

Pres. Hill's sister came for a visit and we went to Nikko Park and saw this spectacular waterfall.

While they were in Japan for three years, each one of their children and their family came for a visit. This is just one of the families that came and had a fun time!

Hill HIghlights

2009-07-05T04:40:00.000-07:00

This was one of the first dinners we had in the Mission Home. Besides Pres. & Sis. Hill are Elder Innes on the left, Elder Jacob Lee on the right in front, and Elder Muroi on the right in back.

Pres. Hill knew how to have fun--here he is bouncing on a huge inflatable hill (no pun intended).

Sis. Hill loved being with the children. She is showing them how to decorate Easter eggs, their first time ever!

This is the last supper Tuesday evening--a delicious taco dinner!

Hill Highlights

2009-07-05T04:34:00.000-07:00

Pres. & Sis. Hill at their farewell meeting to give their last talks.

Sis. Hill dressed in the yukata (summer kimono) made for her by Sis. Yamashita.

Showing the back bow and hair that were done by Sis. Sekiguchi & Sis. Tanaguchi

The Changing of the Guard on July 2, 2009--Pres. & Sis. Hill getting ready to leave and Pres. & Sis. Albrecht newly arrived (standing far left). It was a very bittersweet day.

Our Visit to Kamakura, June 2009

2009-06-28T04:16:00.000-07:00

The sign on top of the hotel announces that we have arrived in Kamakura.

The next photo shows the city of Kamakura along the east coast of Japan. Can you see the surfers out on the water?

The third photo is to show our son Joseph that he has a pizza place in Kamakura

The Great Buddha (Daibutsu) in Kamakura

2009-06-28T04:11:00.000-07:00

Jim in front of the Great Buddha, the lantern, and the Lotus flower

The Great Buddha is an impressive and imposing statue

What a beautiful sculpture of a lotus flower!

The walk leading to the Great Buddha statue

The Grounds and Hydrangea Flowers at the Hasedera Temple in Kamakura

2009-06-28T04:07:00.000-07:00

Jim & the cute Buddha statue

Pat getting ready to enter the cave

A tiny room with tiny statues

Don't know who this is, but you wouldn't want to meet him on a dark and stormy night (or any other time!!)

Kamakura

2009-06-28T04:04:00.000-07:00

This multi-armed buddha shows different tools

These are the temple buildings of Hasedera

This is the largest wooden Buddha in Japan

These statues are in the baby garden. Can you see the little baby attached to the leg of the one statue?

Kamakura

2009-06-28T03:59:00.000-07:00

This is the entrance to the grounds of the Hasedera Temple--a beautiful pond and garden area.

The area of children buddhas.

A hillside of hydrangeas. Can you find the groups of people walking through the hillside?

This one was very different--had a much smaller petal.

Kamakura

2009-06-28T03:55:00.000-07:00

Pat's favorite color

This is not an hydrangea, but we loved the brilliant yellow color

Great photo of a nector-collector. Don't know the kind of flower

A cluster of pink

Kamakura

2009-06-28T03:50:00.001-07:00

Pat on the walk among the hydrangeas on the hillside of the Hasedera Temple.

Field of blue

A hillside of colorful beauty

This flat hydrangea was unique

Yokohama

2009-05-23T02:21:00.000-07:00

This huge ferris wheel looks small from so high in Landmark Tower. The clock on the ferris wheel is supposed to be one of the largest in the world.

The bottom few floors of Landmark Tower are a shopping mall. It seemed very American to us with lots of American stores.

This was an interesting metal sculpture--no idea what it's about.

These escalators had two going down and one going up and they spanned 3 floors. Notice Snoopy going for a jog along-side.

Yokohama

2009-05-23T02:16:00.000-07:00

This is the Landmark Tower in Yokohama. It has the fastest elevator in Japan with one of the highest observation floors in Japan.

The view of the bay from the top of Landmark Tower

Looking north towards Tokyo, you can faintly see the downtown Tokyo skyline.

This is the city of Yokohama. Even though it's very crowded, they always make room for parks.

Yokohama

2009-05-23T02:10:00.000-07:00

Jim and Pat by the Yokohama bay with the city skyline in the background

This is a mosaic of the bay as it looked back in 1869. This year they are celebrating 140 years since being the first port of Japan to open to foreign ships.

Lots of people were strolling along the elevated walkway from the bay to the downtown area.

Jim in front of a sailing vessel.

Yokohama Roses

2009-05-23T02:03:00.000-07:00

Roses in Yokohama

2009-05-23T02:01:00.000-07:00

Pat & Sister Hill getting ready to enjoy all the beautiful roses in a Yokohama park along the bay.

Yokohama China Town

2009-05-23T01:52:00.000-07:00

Sister Hill and Pat ready to go through one of the main gates in Yokohama's China Town.

One of the crowded shopping areas. Lots to look at and enjoy!

This was the biggest of the gates we saw.

Some of the detail on the gate.

The people in Kyoto

2009-05-03T04:52:00.000-07:00

This family was walking along the street in Gion

These ladies were all dressed in their kimonos with sun umbrellas for a nice day in the city.

We saw a real geisha with her companion. Isn't she incredible?!!

We are with our tour guide for the last day in Kyoto--our very own Haruki Ogawa (used to be Elder Ogawa). We loved spending the day with him as he showed us around.

Buildings in the city of Kyoto

2009-05-03T04:48:00.000-07:00

The modern--

The European style

This had Spanish influence

These traditional Japanese buildings are in the oldest part of Kyoto called Gion.

Where we stayed--The Hotel Monterey Kyoto

2009-05-03T04:44:00.000-07:00

This is the hotel where we stayed

A picture of the entrance

This chapel was inside the hotel--to be used for weddings.

This was our gorgeous foyer with chandelier.

The Kiyomizu Buddhist Temple

2009-05-03T04:39:00.000-07:00

This line of people are waiting to fill a cup of water from one of there fountains. You could choose the one for good health, good wealth, or good wisdom. Which would you choose?

This smaller buddha was nevertheless quite impressive.

Notice the latticework of wood supporting the temple buildings.

This view shows the rock wall supporting another part of the temple complex.

The Kiyomizu Buddhist Temple

2009-05-03T04:34:00.000-07:00

Built on a hillside in Kyoto, the Kiyomizu Temple complex had multiple buildings. You can see two of them here.

This picture shows the detail of the roof and painting on the gingerbread of the building.

Two more of the buildings. The one in the background is a pagoda.

An awesome dragon fountain for washing or cleansing.

The Sanju Sangendo Temple Hall

2009-05-03T04:17:00.001-07:00

Because we were not allowed to take photos inside, we used
these photos scanned from a brochure so that is why the pictures are not clear.
This is the god of wind.

This is the god of thunder. The images of these gods are derived from people's fear of and gratitude for nature in the old days.

There are 1000 small standing buddha statues made of Japanese cypress. 124 were made in the 12th century when this temple was founded, and the remaining 876 were made in the 13th centruy when the temple was renovated.

This is the large sitting buddha statue that is considered a National Treasure. He is in the center of the 1000 standing buddhas.

The grounds of the Heian Jingu Shrine

2009-05-03T04:10:00.000-07:00

Some small bamboo arbors by the hanging sakura trees.

This bridge had seats inside to better look over the garden and guest house.

Pat admiring a colorful tree in the garden near the pond.

View of a bride and her guests at a party in the guest house. Taken from the covered bridge.

The Heian Jingu Shrine (Shinto)

2009-05-03T04:05:00.000-07:00

A wide view of the shrine buildings and huge courtyard. This shrine was initially constructed in 1895 and rebuilt in 1940. Kyoto was the capital of Japan for over a thousand years.

There were two fountains for washing or purification before entering the shrine. This was the dragon one, the other was a bear.

The entrance gate from the inside looking out into the city of Kyoto.

The many-roofed shrine building.

Kyoto Imperial Palace

2009-05-03T03:52:00.000-07:00

Part of the beautiful gardens on the palace grounds. Notice the bridge in the background.

Another view the of the same pond. They use rocks in the foreground to represent the ocean shore line.

One of the few rooms we could see from the exterior of the palace.

Another room.

Kyoto Imperial Palace

2009-05-03T03:42:00.000-07:00

Some detail of the roof line.

View through a gate into the main area approaching the imperial stand.

Another picture showing a closeup of the gate.

Part of the grounds around the palace. We were not able to see inside and all the imperial items have been moved to the new Imperial Palace located in Tokyo. The Kyoto Imperial Palace was used from the 800's to 1868, at which time they relocated to Tokyo.

The Kyoto Imperial Palace

2009-05-03T03:27:00.000-07:00

The main gate to the entrance of the Palace grounds.

One of the side gates where other less-notables could enter.

Showing the veranda along the various rooms of the palace.

Looking into the room with tigers on the screens.

Rokuon-ji Temple or Golden Pavilion

2009-05-03T03:11:00.000-07:00

This was originally a banzai tree planted back in the 1200's. It was left untouched and allowed to grow into quite a large tree. Notice the large branch laying along the ground and supported by a wood structure--it looks like the bow of a canoe.

Jim standing near the beautiful Golden Pavilion

Some have told us that it is a rooster on top of objects of special interest. Others have said it is a phoenix. What do you think?

A view of the top of the Golden Pavilion through the trees.

Rokuon-ji Temple or Golden Pavilion

2009-05-03T03:01:00.000-07:00

The gate to the temple grounds.

The Japanese bell with the long wooden bar to ring the bell from the outside as compared with European bells with their clappers on the inside.

Jim across the mirror pond from the Golden Pavilion.

The Nijo Castle in Kyoto

2009-05-03T02:51:00.000-07:00

This wide walkway crosses over a moat that surrounds the castle. The huge gate and block wall around the grounds made this a virtually impenetrable fortress. The castle was originally built in 1603 as the official Kyoto residence of the first Tokugawa Shogun, Ieyasu. It wasn't completed until 1626.

This second gate led into the inner courtyard where the actual living quarters were that you can see through the gate in the background.

Jim in front of a pond on the grounds of the castle.

Always a feeling of serenity and peace and the beauty of nature in the gardens in Japan.

The Kasuga Shinto Shrine in Nara

2009-05-03T02:40:00.000-07:00

Pat in front of stone that describes the Kasuga Shrine as a World Heritage Site.

The Tori gate is where you leave the world behind as you enter the shrine area.

Thousands of lanterns that light the way to the temple. These are purchased by people to show their faith.

The outside of the shrine. We were not allowed to take photographs inside.

Todaiji Temple

2009-05-03T02:32:00.000-07:00

One of two side Buddhas to the large Buddha

Fierce warrior statue of carved wood in the temple building

Another fierce warrior statue

Pat by the lake on the grounds of the Todaiji Temple

The Buddha at Todaiji Temple

2009-04-28T19:51:00.000-07:00

The alter in front of the Buddha statue

The Buddha statue. This is the Vairocana Buddha ("Buddha that shines throughout the world like the sun.") Each curl on his head is the size of a human head. Made from cast bronze, which was then plated with gold. Originally built in 752.

Description of the lotus petals

The Lotus Petals (read description above)

Todaiji Temple in Nara

2009-04-28T19:29:00.000-07:00

Todaiji Temple--original building built between 710 and 794 A.D. This is the third one which was built during the Edo period

One of the few cherry trees still in blossom

The crowds of school children and tours entering the temple

Jim standing in front of a beautifully-engraved lantern in front of the temple

Our Trip to Nara and Kyoto

2009-04-28T19:20:00.000-07:00

We rode this Shinkansen train to Kyoto. Took us about 2 hours to get there.

The tour took us to Nara first where we went through big gates on the way to the Todaiji Temple

The Temple is also a Deer Park where the deer are considered sacred and are not allowed to be killed.

This is a second gate on the way to the Temple

Missionaries wishing Sis. Hartzell a Happy Birthday

2009-04-28T18:56:00.000-07:00

Pat Turns 60 in Tokyo

2009-04-28T18:40:00.000-07:00

Sister Jones and Sister Nonaka decorated Pat's desk--
There were balloons and stars and streamers everywhere!!

Brother Yahagi in the ward does wonderful balloon animals in addition to his magic act.
Elmo is holding a beautiful flower!!

Pat was so amazed to see her desk all decorated up

Pat showing her birthday cards and Japanese cakes from Sister Onishi

Hanami of Sakura on the River/Moat

2009-04-05T05:12:00.000-07:00

Our first view through the crowd at the boats on the river under the Sakura trees

Aren't these cherry blossoms gorgeous?!!

The crowds were so thick you could hardly move down the sidewalk.

The sunlight really showed off the beauty of the blossoms.

2009-04-05T05:07:00.000-07:00

A close up of the blossoms with the dark bark of the tree as contrast

Elder and Sister Kodama

Pat

It must have been wonderful to be floating underneath all this beauty

Hanami at the River/Moat

2009-04-05T05:04:00.000-07:00

Notice the rock wall of the moat which used to surround the Imperial Palace grounds. Now it's only partially there.

What glorious color!!

A popular photo spot--notice all the cameras and cell phones held up high to get the best picture.

The trees and blossoms were so beautiful!!

Hanami at Asigaya Park

2009-04-05T04:45:00.000-07:00

The cherry trees lined both sides of the main street alongside the park

Look at all the trees

As you can see, we were nearly alone in the park!

Jim stands by a beautiful old lantern

Hanami at Asigaya Park

2009-04-05T04:39:00.000-07:00

These white pigeons are on top of their roost. This is the only place in Tokyo where they can be found.

Elder and Sister Kodama and Sister Hartzell at the Park

These guarding dragons always show one with the mouth open

and one with the mouth closed

Primary Easter Egg Activity

2009-04-05T04:21:00.000-07:00

Everyone is singing a song while waiting for the activity to begin

Sis. Hill showing how the egg looks after the coloring

Easter Egg Primary Activity

2009-04-05T04:19:00.000-07:00

A veritable beehive of activity

Brother & Sister Josen are watching the kids color the eggs.

After the hunt, the kids showed off their eggs. The back row of adults is Hiraku, Sis. Josen, Sis. Hartzell, Brother Josen, Elder Hartzell, Sis. Nonaka, and Sis. Jones

Kairaku-en (Park) Fountain

2009-03-14T02:55:00.000-07:00

This was such an interesting-looking tree.

The sign tells about the fountain called To-Gyoku-Sen. The fountains in this area were said to cure eye diseases.

A spout of white stone was placed in the garden as an ornament.

The spring water was used for the tea ceremonies held in the Koubun-tei House.

Trees in Kairaku-en (Park)

2009-03-14T02:49:00.000-07:00

Jim standing near the bamboo forest

The bamboo forest was pretty thick!!

The tops of the bamboo trees looked lush and feathery

Across from the bamboo forest was the cedar forest.

Koubun-tei House

2009-03-14T02:44:00.000-07:00

Closeup of the thatched roof

We think this is a wash basin of some kind.

View of the park filled with people on a nice Saturday and lake in the background.

This park extends away in the distance with rivers or lakes.

Koubun-tei House

2009-03-14T02:38:00.000-07:00

Window with bamboo screen. It could be closed by lifting up the shutter hanging down below that had bamboo on it too.

Pulley wheel for the dumb waiter system

Looking down the dumb waiter shaft 3 floors

This shows the dumb waiter sitting at the bottom, probably in the kitchen .

Koubun-tei House

2009-03-14T02:34:00.000-07:00

The cherry room

This interesting doorway was short so you had to duck to get through.

This screen was in the Lord's Hall of Visitors

The ceiling in the Lord's Hall had a unique herringbone pattern.

Koubun-tei house

2009-03-14T02:20:00.000-07:00

The house was built by the ninth Lord of Mito, Nariaki Tokugawa, in 1842.
The beautiful screens in each room were painted with trees and flowers
from the gardens around the house.
This is the peach room.

This is the Azalea Room

This colorful room we don't know the name for.

This room shows how the screens can be opened to allow ventilation. It has a walkway all around the outside of the house.

Kairaku-en Trees and people at the park

2009-03-14T02:11:00.000-07:00

Our Visit to Kairaku-en (Park)

2009-03-14T02:09:00.000-07:00

Sister Hartzell, Sister Hill, Elder Ferguson, Elder Zitting, and Elder Palmer with Elder Hartzell doing the photography--getting ready to enter Kairaku-en, one of the three most beautiful parks in all of Japan.

We have some good-lookin' missionaries!!

Jim looking at the map of this huge park with over 3,000 plum trees planted and in various stages of blossoming.

Two roses among the plum blossoms.

Kairaku-en (Park) Plum Trees in Blossom

2009-03-14T02:04:00.000-07:00

Kairaku-en Plum Trees in Blossom

2009-03-14T02:01:00.000-07:00

Kairaku-en Plum Blossom Closeups

2009-03-14T01:58:00.000-07:00

Lunch at the Park

2009-03-14T01:54:00.000-07:00

Sister Hill and Sister Hartzell buying shishkabobs for lunch

Let's see--will it all fit?

Cute kids and their ice cream cones--plum flavored--only $3.00 a cone!!!

Kairaku-en (Park) Plum Trees

2009-03-14T01:03:00.000-07:00

Notice how twisted some of the trunks are. Many need extra support.

Kairaku-en (Park) Plum Blossoms

2009-03-14T00:56:00.000-07:00

February 2009

2009-03-14T00:47:00.000-07:00

Yes, it does snow in Tokyo. If you can't see the flakes falling, look at the flakes on Jim's hat!!

Can you tell which of these three buildings is the Oriental Bazaar?!

Jim turned 15 1/4, got 4 cards, 3 candles, and 2 small cakes!!

The Mission Office decided to help Elder Hartzell celebrate his birthday. We ate at an Indian Curry place that was sooooo delicious. Starting from front left: Elder Zitting, Elder Palmer, Sister Yazzie, Sister Hartzell, Elder Hartzell, Sister Jones, Sister Hill, President Hill, Elder Dufuss (Ferguson), Elder Sasaki.

March 8, 2009

2009-03-08T15:24:00.000-07:00

Dear Family & Friends,
So sorry that this is late—we were gone most of the weekend and have been trying to catch up with office stuff.
Well, we are in March! On Monday, March 2nd, we had our monthly Family Home Evening potluck with lots of great food. And this time, for the activity, we made origami Emporers and Empresses because Tuesday, the 3rd, is National Doll Day. Now they gave us instructions on how to do this, but if they hadn’t helped us every step of the way, we could never have done it. Even after they would show us the next step, we would look at the instructions and still not see what they were telling us. So, we do have the finished origami dolls, but I don’t think we could ever make them again without someone helping us!!!!!!!
And Tuesday, March 3rd , was an anniversary date for us—one year ago we entered the Provo Utah Missionary Training Center to start our mission!! Sure brought back lots of great memories of one year ago, the wonderful experience we had, and the great friends we made.
Our word for the week is: Kairaku-en which means “the garden for sharing pleasures with people.”
Saturday, the whole office went on a dai bo-oken and rode the trains way up north to Mito (it took 2.5 hours) where we enjoyed the Kairaku-en or Kairaku Park. It is one of the three most beautiful parks in all of Japan. It has several areas, the most important of which is the over 3,000 plum trees of all varieties which are blooming now. WOW—so many different shades of white, pink, and dark pink (almost purple). We had a beautiful sunny day to enjoy it. We will try to download some of those photos to our blog this next weekend. Also at the park was a bamboo forest and a cedar tree forest, plus lots of open areas where people were picnicking and playing. There were tons of people enjoying the park because this month and next are favorites because of all the blossoms.
To quote the brochure: “Nariaki Tokugawa, the ninth Lord of Mito, constructed a garden, planted ume (plum) trees, and built two houses in the most beautiful place of Mito district to provide a facility of education, intellectual amusement and entertainment to all people of his vassalage.” They had a tour that we took through a house that is a replica (built in 1958) of the original (built in 1850). Though the house was not furnished, the silk screens in each room were restored paintings and were very beautiful.
One of the unique things about the house was that there were screens all around each room that could be opened or closed so that you could have good ventilation throughout the house. Also, it had 3 floors with wonderful views from the top one. Here the Lord Tokugawa would sit in meditation and contemplation upon the world.
After walking all over the park, we took the trains home for another 2.5 hours. When we got back to Higashi-Nagasaki eki, we found a new little restaurant of Mexican food!!! And it tasted authentic!!!! One big difference—small portions, no rice, no beans. But other than that—great!!
The next day, Sunday, after church, we went to the International House of Japan in Azabu-Joban. We were invited to speak to a Unitarian Universalist group that we had visited back in December. There were 9 people there in addition to the two of us. We told them all about our church, giving them the basic First Discussion, then told them about the 13 Articles of Faith, after which Jim told his conversion story and I told mine. All this took about an hour. Then we answered many different questions for another hour and a half. We had a wonderful time and were treated with interest and respect. It was fun to do and we hope we made some friends for the church.
Our quote for the week is: “And now I say unto you that the time shall come that the salvation of the Lord shall be declared to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people.” Mosiah 15:28. “The restored gospel of Jesus Christ has within it the power to bring deep and abiding happiness to the human soul—something that will be valued and cherished for the rest of time and for all eternity. We are not just trying to get people to join our Church; we are sharing with them the fullness of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.” Elder M. Russell Ballard, April 2003 General Conference.
Well, that’s our report and I’m sticking to it!!!
Love you all—
Jim & Pat

March 1, 2009

2009-03-01T17:35:00.001-08:00

Dear Family & Friends,

Ohaio gozaimas!! Good morning!!

We have sunshine today, so even though the wind is blowing, it’s a beautiful day!! Too much clouds, rain, and snow!!! Yup, we had snow last week on Thursday—it came down for about 4 hours and was actually sticking to the ground. We were tempted to go out and play, but there wasn’t enough to make snowballs so we didn’t.

Our big news was Jim had a birthday on Saturday, Feb. 28^th (actually an “un-birthday” as his real one is Feb. 29^th. So he is now 15 1/4^th! He got 3 birthday cakes this week—On Wednesday at Eikaiwa they all sang Happy Birthday to him and our Ward Mission leader, who is a street performer, put on a magic show just for him. It was lots of fun! And our Eikaiwa leader, Sister Onishi, gave him a small box with two little pieces of cake to enjoy—small pieces but very rich tasting. Then on Thursday, we had one of our faithful Eikaiwa students, Yuichi, and his wife Mitsuko (pronounced Mitzko), over for dinner. They are in their late 60’s or early 70’s and have traveled the world and are wonderful people. They brought a little cake for us to enjoy (it cut into just 4 pieces), but again was very rich tasting. And we found out that Friday, Feb. 27^th, was Mitsuko’s birthday, so we sang to both of them. It was fun.

Then, on Saturday, we celebrated Jim’s birthday by sleeping in until 7:00, having a nice breakfast (cooked partially by Jim as he makes the best egg omelets!!). Then he had to go to the office for some financial stuff, while I cleaned the apartment and did some laundry. When he got back, we went for a nice walk, came back and had lunch, cleaned up, and went to a store in Harajuku called the Oriental Bazaar. It has 3 floors and is mostly furniture and china with assorted other stuff, too. But we didn’t buy anything there because we like the Asakusa Bazaar better and plan to go back there and do more shopping for souvenirs. Harajuku was crazy—tons of shoppers, mostly teenagers and young adults—and the sidewalks were packed!! We went there last June and told you about it. It is the “Champs Elysee” of Tokyo. It has lots of European and American and Italian stores that cost a bunch of money, so we don’t even go inside! When we got home, we took naps, then had a nice dinner of salmon for Jim and hamburger for me. Watched TV and went to bed.

Yesterday, Sunday, we enjoyed Church and then went to dinner at the Josen’s, where they served a Japanese beef stew, miso soup, hash browns, salad, and cake!! (small but delicious!!!). So Jim ended up with 3 cakes, none of which I baked.

Our word for the week is: Happy Birthday!! Not only to Jim but to our friend, Sheila, in Israel, another Leap Year baby.

Our thought for the week is: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matthew 6:33. Jim is such a good example of this scripture—he is one of the best men ever!!! (And no, I’m not prejudiced!)

We love you all—

Jim & Pat

Feb 22, 2009

2009-02-22T17:36:00.000-08:00

Dear Family & Friends,

Konichiwa!!

How is everyone doing? Surviving the winter blahs?! We hope so—

We are doing great because this has been a great week. We had Elder David F. Evans, a member of the First Quorum of the Seventy, and President of the Northeast Asia Area, speak at our Mission Conference this past week. Because of how big our mission is, we did it over two days. Sis. Hill asked Jim and I to help with the luncheon on the first day. So Tuesday, Feb. 17^th, we went to the church in Kichijoji and put together nice salads for everyone. The Zone Leaders in the area had ordered bentos (box lunches), and with the salads and a great dessert, Oatmeal Cake, that Sis. Hill had made, everyone ate well. We stayed and cleaned up after and then headed back to the honbu to do our regular work. Then on Wednesday, Feb. 18^th, we got to attend the Conference. Pres. Evans spoke for 2 ½ hours in the morning session, and again for 1 ½ hours in the afternoon. Plus we had Elder and Sister Aoyagi speak (he is an Area Authority Seventy), and President and Sister Hill. We were well taught and felt such a wonderful spirit there.

Elder Evans taught about the doctrine of desire, quoting from scriptures in the Doctrine and Covenants and Book of Mormon primarily. These are some of the notes that Jim took: “If we have desire we are called to the work. Those who put their whole heart, might, mind and strength into the work are sanctified for their efforts and are greatly blessed. This sanctification process cleanses us, even though we know we are not perfect. Work all the day long and then when you lie down at night you will know you have done your best. Some of us have lingered too long, we need to linger less and get back to work. After much labor then they begin to have success. We need to pray for success, get to work, and have a greater sense of urgency for the work. He quoted President Kimball who stated a number of years ago that we have paused on some plateaus long enough and need to rise up. We need to begin to increase our desire by having prayer, we are not stuck, we can move forward. We need to awaken and focus on the goal. He quoted Elder Oaks who said we need to start with our feelings and pray about our feelings and our desire. You have to change, the promises we have is after we have made the change into someone new and better than we are now. Ultimately it is the love of the Savior that will cause us to change or desire. It is up to us. No one can do it for us. God will facilitate but not force. The Lord works when we step forward in faith.” We were so uplifted and strengthened by all he said, and also enjoyed what the others had to say, too.

Our luncheon was Okinawan Tacos which were DELICIOUS!! It’s like taco salad with all the taco fixings but served on rice instead of tortilla chips. Plus we had the Oatmeal Cake, so we were fed well physically, too!!

Jim has had several experiences this past week in dealing with the new iMOS financial program, and is able to give the people in SLC feedback to help them improve the program and reports that it has to generate. I am so proud of all his hard work. I have been frustrated with my iMOS stuff and keep going back to the old MOS program to do things. But each week I will try again—improvements have been made and I have also given the people in SLC input on how to improve things. We will see how long it will take them to make the changes and how long it will take for me to learn to do things a new way!!! (you know—old dogs, new tricks!!!)

Our word for the week is an old one—otsukare sama des (oat-scar-eh sama des) which means “you look like you work hard”! We use it for a lot of the delivery people who come here and have to carry heavy boxes and stuff in and out, and also for our regular mail and package people. We appreciate so much all they do for us and this is how we compliment them.

Our thought for the week is: “For you shall live by every word that proceedeth forth from the mouth of God.” Doctrine and Covenants 84:44. As we live by God’s words and commandments, we are truly blessed!!

We love you all—

Jim & Pat

Feb 15, 2009

2009-02-15T08:15:00.000-08:00

Dear Family & Friends,
It was a good week for the most part. Poor Jim had some frustrations with iMOS, the internet Mission Operating System, that we are piloting. Thank heavens, it turned out what he had done that he thought was not processed, it was processed so he felt better about that. I tried to do a mail-merge and it didn’t work so I went back to the old way. It’s always hard (frustrating!!) trying something new and helping them work the bugs out. We are getting tired of being the beta test site for all of the Japan missions. It’s a dirty job and WE get to do it!!!
Thursday morning we came over and did some yard work to make everything look nice for Elder Evans to come visit us next week for a multi-Zone Conference. I cleaned up the office while Jim and the missionaries and Sister Hill worked on the yard.
Then, that afternoon, Sister Hill invited me on a quick trip to a place called China Pete’s where they have lots of different things made out of china. When I say quick, it took two hours to get there, we looked around for an hour, bought a some dishes, then went to Costco for a few things (compared to the major shopping we usually do), and two hours to drive home. We had fun visiting over and back so it was well-worth the time. Nothing is close here!!
Friday night we double-dated with the Hills to a good Valentine’s dinner at Kennedy Steak House, which was delicious!! Then we watched a DVD that I had picked up at Costco called, “Prince Caspian,” part of the Narnia series. We loved it and thought it was such a good story and so well done!!! (Jim & I liked it so much we watched it again last night).
Saturday we attended a wonderful wedding in the Temple. Our own Elder Iida, who left the mission just 10 days ago, was sealed to his sweetheart who waited for him. They looked so happy and we were happy for them. We were not able to stay for the photo session, so when we get any photos from the Hills, we will put them on our blog.
Our thought for the week is: “And if you keep my commandments and endure to the end you shall have eternal life, which gift is the greatest of all the gifts of God.” Doctrine and Covenants 14:7.
Our new word for the week is: haru ichiban (har-oo itchee ban) which means #1 spring or first of spring. This has reference to the interesting change of weather we had. On Thursday it was quite cold. On Friday a wind blew all day, but it was a warm wind. When we went out on Saturday, it was positively balmy!! The temp was about 78 degrees!!! We couldn’t believe it!!! In Colorado we would call this wind a “Chinook.” So we had our first taste of spring and we are all excited!!!
Hope you are all doing well and having “haru ichiban”!!
Love, Jim & Pat

Shinjuku Park

2009-02-15T01:02:00.000-08:00

A lovely flower garden--mostly ornamental cabbages.

Jim on a bridge overlooking a peaceful pond.

Pat in front of a building built for the Japanese by the Chinese to honor an upcoming wedding of Japanese royalty.

The back of the same building with a lovely pond for a beautiful reflection. Pat is standing on the balcony.

Flowers at Shinjuku Park

2009-02-15T00:58:00.000-08:00

First signs of spring at Shinjuku Park

Pat in front of one of the few flowering gardens in the park.

One of the colorful orchids in a special display. The huge greenhouse was closed for a major renovation and a few plants were shown in a small building nearby.

This was an interesting-looking orchid.

Japanese Parchment Bush

2009-02-15T00:53:00.000-08:00

This bush is what the Japanese use to make their special parchment, like rice paper, that they use for calligraphy.

Closeup of the blossoms on the bush.

Sign explaining the uniqueness of the bush.

Our Returning Missionaries, 04 Feb 2009

2009-02-15T00:46:00.000-08:00

The Dad (trainer for Financial Secretary) , Elder T. Iida, with his son (his apt pupil/padowan learner), Elder Hartzell.

14 missionaries returning home with President and Sister Hill (3 sisters (all from America), and for Elders: 4 from Brazil, 3 from Japan, 1 from Australia, and 3 Americans--a very genki group!!

The Dad (Trainer of the new Office Secretary), Elder Jacob Zan Adachi Lee, with his daughter (the new Office Secretary), Sister Hartzell.

We say a fond "farewell" to a special Australian missionary/friend, Elder Johnston.

Darth Maul or Darth Mom--You be the judge!!

2009-02-15T00:35:00.000-08:00

Feb 8, 2009

2009-02-08T10:29:00.000-08:00

Dear Family & Friends,
We survived the chaos of another Transfer Week, and again it was bittersweet. As I mentioned last week, we sent home 14 missionaries. They included 3 sisters, 4 Brazilian elders, an awesome Australian, a former Assistant, a couple of elders that we had become friends with, and Jim’s & my Trainers: Elder Iida and Elder Lee. We enjoyed breakfasts with them on Tuesday and Wednesday, and had several good visits before they left. Elder Lee even promised to play the piano at our own homecoming, a promise I will hold him to. Also, Elder Iida, the one who trained Elder Hartzell, is getting married this coming Saturday—just 10 days after his release!! Of course, she has been waiting for him for the past 6 years: 4 years of university and 2 years of missionary work! We certainly wish him well!! And hope that all of them will have wonderful lives and much joy and happiness for all the service they have given.
We only have 5 new missionaries arrive—2 sisters, 1 elder from America, and 1 elder from Brazil and 1 from Japan—quite a mixture!! They all seem like hard workers and ready to do whatever is asked of them.
The weather has been cold, sometimes rainy, sometimes windy, so we haven’t felt like going on any dai-bokens (high adventures). However, we do have some planned for the future so we will have to see how things go.
Saturday night was a high point!! We had the baptism of a young man named Kato-san who had been taking the lessons for the past 5 months. He first learned about the church while on a train—he sat next to our Stake President who was reading the Priesthood/Relief Society manual about the Prophet Joseph Smith, so Kato-san asked about it. President Kusume taught him a little about the church and invited him over for dinner and a missionary lesson, and it became the first of many dinners and lessons. He felt the Spirit a number of times, but struggled with the changes he would have to make in his life. Finally, last Monday he went to the temple grounds (which are close to his work) and prayed. The temple is closed on Mondays so he had to pray on the public sidewalk out front which is fairly busy. He did this 4 different times during the day, becoming more and more humble each time. Finally he felt the most beautiful feeling wash over him and fill him up with such joy that he knew he was ready to be baptized and commit himself to living the Gospel of Jesus Christ. What joy we all felt at his baptism and what a beautiful testimony he bore!!
Sunday (yesterday) was also an incredible day. First, Kato-san was confirmed a member of the Church. Then our North Asia Area President, President Evans, came and spent the day in our Nakano Ward. He and his wife spoke in Sacrament Meeting, then he taught a Sunday School class to the young single adults, then spoke to the combined Priesthood/Relief Society, then had a one hour break to eat, then they both spoke at a Fireside for an hour along with our own President Hill. We were filled with the Spirit as servants of the Lord taught us to love and serve and be obedient to God. We are so grateful we can be on our mission and spend time with such great men and women!!
Our thought for the week is: “For whoso findeth me findeth life.” Proverbs 8:35. “Generally speaking, the most miserable people I know are those who are obsessed with themselves; the happiest people I know are those who lose themselves in the service of others. By and large, I have come to see that if we complain about life, it is because we are thinking only of ourselves.” Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley.
Our word for the week is: kinkan which is a kumquat! We have heard of them but never seen one before. They are little, the size of a ping pong ball, and look like oranges. One difference is that the skin is sweet and the inside is bitter. You pop the whole thing in your mouth and enjoy the mixture of tastes!
We love you all—
Jim & Pat

Feb 1, 2009

2009-02-01T07:33:00.000-08:00

Dear Family & Friends,

This last week was cold and rainy, and though we have sunshine today, it’s also quite windy so still cold!!

This was a fairly quiet week. Had a great Eikaiwa on Wednesday and lots of fun going to Costco with Sis. Hill on Friday. We went to a different Costco than usual (there are about 7 or 8 just here in Tokyo area), and it was so much nicer and less crowded than the other one. The traffic getting there is worse, but the time it takes is about the same.

Saturday night we had such a fun time with our friends, the Josen’s. Sis. Josen taught me how to make Gyoza and Teriyaki Chicken. Both were sooooooo delicious!! She doesn’t speak English as well as her husband, but we were able to communicate without asking him to translate most of the time. She is looking more pregnant now. Her baby is due the 29^th of May. The tradition here is to go to her parent’s home for the birth. They leave about a month before the due date and stay until a week after the baby comes. So the husband is not involved in the birth unless he can get time off, which they usually don’t. So different from America!

We have been busy all week getting ready for the transfers. We have 14 missionaries going home and only 5 coming out. Also, our office and District will be changing: one Assistant is leaving to be a trainer, our Recorder is leaving because he already trained his replacement, and one of the sisters is leaving. I will tell you more about the new missionaries next email.

Our thought for the day is: “It is not enough to want to make the effort and to say we’ll make the effort. We must actually make the effort. It’s in the doing, not just the thinking, that we accomplish our goals. If we constantly put our goals off, we will never see them fulfilled. Someone put it this way: ‘Live only for tomorrow, and you will have a lot of empty yesterdays today.’” Pres. Monson, General Conference Priesthood Session, October 2007.

We love you—

Jim & Pat

Jan 25, 2009

2009-01-25T17:06:00.000-08:00

Dear Family & Friends,

We were able to enjoy going to the temple on Wednesday and feel the reverent, peaceful feelings there. Then we went to a park where we were supposed to be able to enjoy a huge greenhouse full of exotic flowers. However, the greenhouse was closed for renovation and wouldn’t be open until 2011. From the outside it looked a lot like the greenhouse we went through at Denver Botanical Gardens a couple of years ago, so we remembered that and how beautiful the flowers were. We did enjoy just walking around the park and taking a few photos which we will put on our blog.

By the way, we have downloaded the photos that we wrote about last week of the Mochi tsuki taichai or Rice Cake Making Party, and of the girl who turned 20 this year and had the Coming of Age celebration. For those who have forgotten, our blog is: hartzellline.blogspot.com (don’t forget the 3 small L’s in the middle).

Wed. night was our first Eikaiwa for this semester. We had a large class of 10 people in our little classroom, some former students and some new ones. We talked about giving directions on a map. One thing that is really hard here is that they don’t have street names for every street on all the street corners, so you have to tell people how to get somewhere by describing landmarks. It can be soooooo confusing. We put street names on our pretend map and taught everyone about things like “kitty-corner”, cul-de-sac, u-turn, up/down a street, skywalk, pedestrian crossing bridge, etc., trying to help them learn English words for these things.

Today Jim gave a wonderful talk in Church about personal revelation. He told the story of how, when we were living in Colorado, the Spirit prompted him to move our family to Las Vegas. He didn’t know why, just that we had to do it. I knew it had to be God telling him, as he wouldn’t even put Las Vegas on the list of possible places we might consider living in. So he spent about 3 months finding a job and getting us ready to move. And then, 2 weeks after we arrived at my mom’s house to live while we were looking for a house of our own, my mother went to sleep and slept for 3 days and we were so worried about her that we took her to the doctor. They never could determine what had happened, just that she suddenly became very weak and tired and never completely covered. With my sister’s help, we took turns taking care of her until she passed away two years later. I am so grateful he was living worthy to receive that direction from God and willing to “go and do” what God asked him to do.

Our thought for the week is: “And it came to pass that I, Nephi, said unto my father, ‘I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them.” 1 Nephi 3:7.

Our word for the week is: yuki which means snow. Saturday we had our first snow here in Tokyo!!! Of course, it was only a few flakes at a time for about an hour, and none of it stuck, but it was pretty and fun to see! Today is beautiful and sunny, still cold but so much nicer than it has been.

We had a special event this week in our family—our daughter-in-law, Shanna, gave birth to a baby girl that she was the surrogate mother for. The real mom and dad are from Sweden and flew to Phoenix just after the birth and will stay with Joseph and Shanna for two weeks while Shanna nurses the baby and the couple prepares the baby’s passport. They named her Cornelia!! Shanna and Cornelia are both doing fine. CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL!!

Hope you are all well and happy—we love you,

Jim & Pat

Dad's Talk on Personal Revelation

2009-01-25T07:33:00.000-08:00

Personal Revelation – Jan. 25, 2009 Nakano Ward, Tokyo Japan--jhh

I have been asked today to speak on personal revelation. As I considered what I might say I have thought that I should look at how others were able to receive revelation, and how I have been able to receive revelation.

I believe for a person to receive personal revelation we need to have certain conditions or requirements.

One condition or requirement might be for our own personal need.

Or another condition might be for the need of those we have some stewardship to serve.

Sometimes both of these conditions are met at the same time.

If we look at the life of the Prophet Joseph Smith I believe he is a great example of one who received personal revelation. So what did he do to receive those revelations?

In Joseph’s account of the first vision he stated that there was an unusual excitement on the subject of religion and the various faiths were contending one with another trying to convince those who would listen, to join their religion.

Joseph said this caused a lot of confusion for him and for others. He was only 14 years old at the time and felt inadequate “to come to any certain conclusion who was right and who was wrong."

So what did he do to find out which of all the churches to join?

First of all he read the scriptures and was familiar with the words of God. He had read the scriptures on his own and with his family. They had discussed the scriptures as a family. He had asked the leaders of different religions about how they understood the messages in the Bible.

What he found was confusion. These preachers would interpret the same scriptures differently and so he didn’t know who was right and who was wrong.

One day he was reading in the Book of James in the New Testament, and read:

^aIf any of you lack ^bwisdom, let him ask of God, that ^cgiveth to all men liberally, and ^dupbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

But let him ^aask in ^bfaith, nothing ^cwavering. James 1:4,5

He began to think about this scripture over and over again. We call this pondering.

He knew he lacked wisdom, he had not been able to gain that wisdom from others so he decided to do as James directed – to ask God.

And so Joseph did ask. He went to a private, quiet place, and prayed to know which of all the churches was right.

Joseph received an answer to his prayer, just as each of us can receive answers to our prayers.

His answer from God was that none of the churches on the earth at that time were right and he was to join none of them. Later, he would pray and study more and receive additional revelations that would restore the Church of Jesus Christ once again to the Earth.

Joseph’s pattern to receive personal revelation was to 1^st--study the scriptures, 2^nd--ask questions of people who have knowledge, and 3^rd-- ask God in faith, believing he would receive an answer, to find out what he should do.

Joseph had a personal need. He wanted to know the truth about which church to join and God also had a need to call a prophet once again to serve his children here on the Earth.

In my life I have had times when I used this same pattern as Joseph Smith to know the truth.

When I wanted to know if the Book of Mormon was true, I used this same pattern.

I read the Book of Mormon every day for several weeks. I asked a member of the church questions I had about the Church. Then I prayed to know if the Book of Mormon was truly God’s word and was Joseph Smith his prophet.

As I prayed I came to know by the whispering of the Holy Ghost that the Book of Mormon was God’s word and that Joseph Smith was his prophet. I received this because I wanted to know for myself if it was true.

I also have another experience with revelation that I want to share. This was because of the need someone else had. In this case I was not praying to receive an answer, but God knew of a need that I could help with, and so I received a revelation.

I was prepared to receive the revelation because I was reading my scriptures regularly, and was trying to keep the commandments.

One day I was reading a conference talk by Elder Thomas S. Monson, who was a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles at the time. He was sharing in his talk a story about a rescue that a man had made, who was able to save many people’s lives, but in the process lost his own life.

As I pondered that message the Spirit told me that we needed to move from Colorado to Nevada, where my wife is from. It was a very strong impression.

Well I didn’t really want to go.

We lived in a beautiful place in Colorado, I had a great job, and we loved our ward and had many friends. However, I did not question the revelation I had received.

I have always been very impressed with Nephi and how he was always willing to do hard things.

My favorite scripture is 1 Ne 3:7

“And it came to pass that I, Nephi, said unto my father: I ^awill go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no ^bcommandments unto the children of men, save he shall ^cprepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them."

So I obeyed the prompting, and over the next several months eventually found a new job in the Las Vegas, Nevada, area, put our house in Colorado up for sale and we moved.

When we arrived we still didn’t know why we were supposed to move. But within 2 weeks we found out why.

My mother-in-law suddenly took ill and for the next two years we were there to help care for her. I have always been thankful that we could go and help when we were needed.

If we are willing to follow the promptings of the Lord through the Holy Ghost, we will always be blessed and we can be an instrument to bless the lives of others.

I testify that if we will read, ponder, and pray, then we will receive answers to our questions.

I also testify that if we are living worthy and willing to do what God asks us to do, then the Lord can bless the lives of others through us.

In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Rice Cake Making Ceremony

2009-01-25T00:32:00.000-08:00

The wood mallets of different sizes and the big wood bowl await the rice.

Elder Hartzell making his mark on the rice, showing everyone else how it's done.

He waits while Brother Josen adds water and kneads the rice ball.

The three men walk around the rice giving it little hits before they start really pounding it.

Rice Cake Making Ceremony

2009-01-25T00:25:00.000-08:00

Brother Josen adding water to the rice and folding or kneading the rice ball.

The rice ball being pulled into small cakes to add other stuff and eat

What it looks like on the plate after having either seaweed or garlic paste or bean powder, etc., added to it.

Sister Hartzell and Sister Casper taking turns hitting the rice ball. Brother Hamilton is putting his life in his hands as he is the one who has to add the water to the rice while we take turns hitting the rice.

Coming of Age Celebration

2009-01-25T00:16:00.000-08:00

This girl is dressed in an elegant kimono with the long sleeves to signify that sometime during this past year she turned 20, which means she becomes an adult. When she gets married, the long sleeves are cut to only about 10 inches long.

January 18, 2009

2009-01-20T07:12:00.000-08:00

Dear Family & Friends,

We have enjoyed this last week. Last Sunday Jim gave the lesson in Sunday School. On Monday we enjoyed Skyping with several of our children, then had a good Staff Meeting.

This day was a holiday called “Coming of Age Day” which celebrates all young people who turned 20 during the past year and officially became adults!! They usually dress up in very fancy kimonos with loooong sleeves, which shows that they are not married. Once they get married, they have to cut the sleeves to a regular length.

One of the highlights of Monday was the Mochi Tsuki Taichai or Rice Cake Making Party that we were able to participate in at the church. They brought in a huge old block of wood, about 3x3x3 which had been hollowed out to make a deep bowl. They would cook the sticky rice and put a large ball of it into the wooden bowl. Then they would take wooden mallets of different sizes and hit the rice a bunch of times. Someone else would sit on the floor by the bowl and keep adding water with their hands onto the rice in between hits, and even turn the ball to different sides, much like kneading bread. Jim & I both took turns hitting the ball of rice. After it has been well-pounded, then they divided the big ball into little rice cakes and would dip or cover them in an assortment of things such as: seaweed, bean paste called Nato, red bean paste, ginger paste, soy powder, etc. We liked some things better than others.

Then Monday evening we went out to dinner with Pres. & Sister Hill and the office elders and the Nakano sisters to celebrate the sister’s birthdays: Sister Sakamoto had her birthday last Friday and Sister Yazzie on Saturday. We went to the restaurant that had the Yakiniku but some of us went upstairs and ate the Okonomiyaki, which we loved!!! I think I mentioned that I learned to make it back in September. It sure is good!!

Wednesday I did some cookie baking at the mission home—our cook from the Phillipines has gone home for a month so I am the back-up cook. Hopefully she will return next week!! I will say that Pres. Hill had gotten tired of her rolls and bread and has enjoyed what I have made so I feel successful.

Friday we had our Zone Training about using the Book of Mormon in our teaching. The wonderful scriptures it contains really help us to focus on the Savior and how much He did for us. They also have many examples of people who learn to follow the prophets and those who do not—what a contrast!!

Saturday was a once-a-year Sister Conference with all the sister missionaries in the mission. What a great time we had—there was wonderful training by Sister Hill about the role of women in God’s Plan as shown in the stories in the Old Testament. We especially talked about Esther and her willingness to give up her life for her people. She had such faith. We especially like what her cousin, Mordecai, said to her in Esther 4:14—“Are you come for such a time as this?” and Sister Hill asked us to ask ourselves this question. I feel that we are come here to Tokyo for “such a time as this” so I really felt the Spirit touching me. Then Pres. Hill did a Q&A with the sisters, we had an awesome lunch of lasagna and salad and ice cream for dessert with the cookies I had made. In the afternoon we talked about recognizing the promptings of the Spirit, how to use the Book of Mormon more effectively in our teaching, and how to tell scripture stories (which Sister Hill is really good at).

Then we practiced singing a hymn in preparation for a big conference we will be having in February.

So I was at the Conference all Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. While I was there, Jim cleaned our apartment, did laundry, and even went to the store for the Italian bread for the luncheon. I am so grateful to be married to such a good man!!

Today was a wonderful day at church and we had the Caspers over for dinner. They are a young couple who have helped us a lot in the Ward. He is from Georgia (don’t know if it’s anywhere close to where our friends the Tannehills are from) and she is from Japan. He had been on a mission here and had come back to work and met her, they fell in love and got married and have lived in the Nakano Ward area for about 8 years. They both speak English so have helped with our translating, especially Sister Casper. What is cute is, because they have lived in Georgia in the past for a couple of years, she speaks English with a southern accent, and says “ya’ll” all the time. It is sooooo cute!! They are more of the wonderful friends we have made here in Tokyo.

Time to sign off! Go to our blog: hartzellline.blogspot.com and enjoy the pictures we have added.

We love you all—

Jim & Pat

The Halversens Visit Tokyo

2009-01-18T02:43:00.000-08:00

After picking them up at the airport, we took the Halversens to visit
Tokyo Bay. Steve, Jim, Pat, Gayle, and Zach. Photo taken by
Sister Hill.

Pat with the city of Tokyo in the distance.

Another view of the skyscapers.

Sunset at Tokyo Bay with airplane and birds in the distance.

The Halversens Visit Tokyo

2009-01-18T02:38:00.000-08:00

Steve, Gayle, Pat, Sis. Hill, and Zach walking
toward the giant ferris wheel.

View of the ocean from the top of the ferris wheel.

View of Tokyo looking west into the sunset.

It was a beautiful ride!!!

The Halversens Visit the Tokyo Temple

2009-01-18T02:32:00.000-08:00

Standing at the front gate of the Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints Tokyo Temple

Zach, Gayle, and Steve Halversen enjoying
the Tokyo Temple.

Is the statue of the Angel Moroni blowing his
trumpet at the blimp? (Interesting photo by Jim)

The Halversens Visit a Tokyo Park

2009-01-18T02:29:00.000-08:00

The walkways were very pretty and rustic
in the park across the street from our church's
Tokyo Temple.

Some beautiful fall color was still to be seen, even
though it was the last two days of December.

Gayle enjoying a rustic wood bridge and
pretty stream.

The old codgers are always fishing!!

View from Tokyo Tower

2009-01-18T02:21:00.000-08:00

One of the city views from Tokyo Tower

Looking down at a cemetary

Jim & Pat with Tokyo in the background

A view looking toward the bay. Notice the bridge in the background which is called the Rainbow Bridge because of the way it is lit up at night with many different colors of lights.
There is very little smog compared to a lot of big cities because of the strict emission standards on the cars, and there are almost no cars over 10 years old.

The Halversens Visit the Tokyo Tower

2009-01-18T02:15:00.000-08:00

The Tokyo Tower reportedly is taller than
the Eiffel Tower, which it was modeled after.

The Tokyo Tower with a blimp in the distance.

In side is a small model with the date it was built on the side--1958.

It's really tall!!!

The Halversens Visit Tokyo

2009-01-18T02:10:00.000-08:00

The famous Shibuya crossing--reportedly the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world. Everybody is going every which way, and commercials and advertising are everywhere you look.

Standing in the middle of one of the many side
streets that come off of Shibuya Crossing.

Looking down the street at the many Christmas
decorations.

Yes, we have Krispie Kremes in Tokyo!!! and
it only took us 20 minutes to get in and get a seat.

The Halversens Visit Tokyo

2009-01-18T02:02:00.000-08:00

The Halversens standing under the big lantern at the
entrance to the Asakusa Temple area.

The gals in one of the many little shops.

The guys waiting for the gals by the shops.

We enjoyed looking at the buddha statues.

The Halversen's Visit Tokyo

2009-01-18T01:56:00.000-08:00

Looking into the incense bowl, which is also
burning the small paper prayer rolls that
people buy.

Statue of a shogun that is part of a fountain
where people wash their hands as part of the
temple ritual.

Close-up of the base of the same statue/fountain

Viewing the inside of the Senso-ji temple.
You can only go in if you pay a lot of money.

Halversen's Tokyo Visit

2009-01-18T01:51:00.000-08:00

Zach on the left, Gayle, and Steve Halversen
standing beside the incense pot in front of the
Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa.

A covered shopping street in Asakusa.

Jim & Pat by an interesting wall mural in a train station.

Pres. Hill stopped by our little apartment to say "goodbye" to our dear friends, the Halversens.

And we say,"Thanks for coming!!"

Flowers that bloom in December

2009-01-18T01:43:00.000-08:00

This is the view outside our apartment balcony. It just started blooming the first part of December. I never knew flowers would bloom in the winter!!

The last rose of the year--taken about the 10th of December. Next week turned colder and it was dead.

Christmas in Tokyo Apartment

2009-01-18T01:38:00.000-08:00

Jim decorated our little tree

It looks beautiful!!

Pat put the ornaments on the little wooden tree that was left in the apartment

A closeup of the little wooden tree

Jan 11, 2009

2009-01-11T07:13:00.000-08:00

Dear Family & Friends,

Last week we had Zone Conference, and the Area Doctors (medical and psychology) spoke to us in addition to great talks by Pres. & Sis. Hill. We learned about doing relaxation techniques and keeping our apartments clean to avoid illness, etc. They also taught us about balancing our lives—being sure that we don’t go overboard in any one area—so that we can accomplish our mission each day. It was so uplifting and we felt such a wonderful spirit there.

Everything else during the week was pretty normal, and we especially enjoyed a Saturday at home getting cleaning and laundry done and actually taking time to relax and read awhile. We did get four new missionary applications in so I am starting to put all the information in all the different places that it needs to be.

Our thought for the week is: “He who doeth the works of righteousness shall receive his reward, even peace in this world, and eternal life in the world to come.” Doctrine and Covenants 59:23. “Walk in the sunlight of that peace which comes from obedience to the commandments of the Lord.” Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley.

We hope everyone will “walk in the sunlight of that peace.”

Love, Jim & Pat

People in the Park

2009-01-11T03:49:00.000-08:00

The woman practicing her ballroom dancing.

Nearby, the man was practicing his dancing, too.

People are always walking their dogs at the park, carrying their little bags for waste disposal (pooper scooping).

And kids playing baseball--same all over the world!!

The Japanese Park in the Fall--November & December

2009-01-11T03:46:00.000-08:00

The park walkways are swept daily.

Clusters of berries look like Christmas decorations.

Entering the park where the clock is.

Another lovely path at the park

2009-01-11T03:42:00.000-08:00

Sharing some of the flowers at the park--someone else had left the water on and placed the flower on the fountain by the autumn leaves.

This looks the same as a flower bush we have back home.

Surprising to still see roses blooming in November/December.

Now that's purple!!

2009-01-11T03:38:00.000-08:00

We don't know the name of this tree, but it has a maple-like leaf and the beautiful dark oranges and reds of the maple leaf.

2009-01-11T03:35:00.000-08:00

The berries on this bush are so brilliantly red.

The bush is similar to a firethorn bush but no thorns.

When we first saw this tree near our apartment, we thought it had red leaves, but it isn't--it's red berries!! Different red from the bushes.