We had a few helpers prepare the day before and the decorations were awesome. The military branch had a party the week before and allowed us to use the snowmen they had used. Sister Turner organized and carried out the amazing preparations.
Some of the help was questionable...
The day started with a nice lunch catered by the Dragon Hill Lodge Deli from the Yongsan US Military base. We really hoped to give the missionaries something similar to what they might have at home on Thanksgiving or Christmas. The surprise was real. We had enough for everyone, even the biggest appetites to go home hungry! Turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes with gravy, steamed veggies, cranberry sauce, pumpkin, apple, and cherry pies!
After lunch we had a number of musical numbers that truly touched the hearts. We sang together favorite Christmas numbers.
We shared some spiritual messages and then turned the time over to Sister Turner for them to have some old-fashioned family fun! Each district (five each day) competed against the others. There were no prizes except bragging rights, but that didn't stop them from showing their competitive spirits.
Game 1 - Marbles - This game required moving 200 marbles from one two-liter bottle to another. each member of the district had to participate It was incredibly loud. I think the Busan missionaries heard us playing this game!
Game 2 - Slinky - This required they get a slinky onto a cup on their forehead. Each of the eight team members had to accomplish the feat to win. We saw true dexterity on this one! Unfortunately the size of the clip was too large for the blog. All we can do is show the winners.
Game 3 - M&M Sort - This required one representative of each team using a gloved hand sort a bag of M&Ms into individual colors. In this case, the winner had the smallest hands. She was quick.
Game 4 - Cup Stack - this game required each member of the team to move a colored cup from the bottom of the stack to the top by moving one cup at a time. Some were dexterous, others were all thumbs (like the author). Unfortunately, again the file was too large for the blog and all we can do is show the winners.
We took lots of pictures of the individual districts.
This final group is the mission presidency and their wonderful wives!
We finished the day with a White Elephant gift exchange, Sister Turner's Tasty Treats, a Nativity, and a slide show. What a day!
The rest are just random pictures from the days' activities.
That pretty much wraps up this Christmas! We tried to keep their minds here and not on what they are missing back home. We know they miss their families and love them, but we are trying to create a temporary family environment here they can also fondly remember.
We hope all of you had a wonderful Christmas and relaxing New Year. It's time to return to work. More interview pictures coming up next! Thank you for your loving support!
