This morning we left about 10:00 or so and went to Wal-Mart in search of a wireless because I have seemed to have lost mine, which means I cannot connect to the internet. Anyway, the store did not have one less than $50, so we left and headed for NJ to meet the McMillans. This is a couple that has supported us personally for at least 20 years. Eileen is third-generation Japanese.
After lunch the Pastor had to leave. We then went into the living room and talked some more. Eileen got out a box of items from her parents and grandparents. This box is an amazing collection of a family's history. Her family members were Christians in Japan; one of her great-grandfathers donated land for the church in Japan. They were part of the samurai class, I believe. At least they were somewhat wealthy at that time.
When part of the family moved to California, they were fishermen. So when the US government rounded up Japanese living near the coast and hauled them off to the camps, her grandfather was one of the first since he had his own boat. She showed us a couple of bags with the family name Shindo and an assigned number. While the Nazis tattooed numbers on their prisoners, the Americans just assigned a number they had to wear all the times. They were provided with housing for each family; similar to barracks, and some bare necessities. Her grandfather took up carving and she had several small birds he had done while in the camp. There were many photos of family members for several generations.
Her mom returned to Japan a few years ago to meet her sister who was turning 100 I think. It was written up in the local paper where three elderly sisters had met for the occasion. The one in Japan died at 105 not too long ago, if I remember right. It is such a rich family history, it would be great if Eileen can compile all the info and pictures there into a book. Such a thing could be used to show Japanese that a family can live for God.
We left there about 4:00 pm and returned to Clinton about 8:00 pm. Mary had fixed pizza and Dave and Terry Long came over also. The Gills and Longs had served in Nigeria for a number of years but had to leave because of the deteriorating conditions there. We had a good time of fellowship.
Sara, Anna Mae Gill and Anna Long all are born within three weeks of each other back in 1998. So the two Anna's gave Sara a Webkins horse and a stamping package for presents. (Which reminds me, we still have to get her a gift!).
Matthew and Joe finally came over after 11:00 pm while some of the household had gone to bed. They stayed till about midnight after eating some pizza and soda. Another day draws to a close.
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