This has been a wild week. Tim, the owner's son and my favortie Russian, was fired last Thursday for leaving their church (what church, it's a cult). They actually are so proud that they made up a rumor that he was taking drugs (crack). He offered to take a drug test but they declined. Tim and his wife and two little girls have lived with his parents since they got married. On Sunday the 13th his father ordered him to get ready for church. Tim said he wasn't going. His father continued to yet at him to force him to go but Tim stood his ground. That week there were several meetings and phone calls with closed doors. Andre (the father) came in Thursday, they called Mark, the sales manager, in the office and told him what was going down, then made him get Tim and that was the end of Tim's job. Then the Hozen's had the sales manager and warehouse manager tell their employees that Tim was fired because of drugs. None of the non-Russian sales people believe it and I'm not sure who does. Tim and his family came over Thursday night to talk. He told me that I was going to hear rumors that were not true. I told him I already had. Onya (his wife) was so angry. But when they left she told me that Tim's father had made her miserable for 6 years and Tim finally saw the peoson he really was.
Dad and I spent some time with them on Saturday. They are like newlyweds. They are really pretty clueless about things as the only thing they know is what they're taught at home (no public education) and church. Carolyn and I took Annie (our new name for her) out last night for her first ever In-n-Out burger and fries. She was scared to eat it - when she finally took a bite she loved it. And her favorite soda is Dr. Pepper. She had her hari cut and frosted and Tim shaved his beard off. Katie (5) and Rachel (almost 2) don't wear the handkerchiefs on their heads anymore either. So they have a new start in life with people who love them. I've invited them over for Easter so you can meet them. I know the little girls will love playing with their new 'cousins.'
I have been filled with the Spirit this week and have felt so in tune. I know that a power greater than I has been in charge and has given me courage to do what I should (I had a conversation with Dave about this whole thing - he 'rope and doped me' but I got it off my chest). I knew when I got this job that it was an answer to my prayers. I didn't know why, except that I have had some good opportunities to share the Gospel and place a few Books of Mormon. I honestly feel that my purpose was to be there for Tim and his family. I also feel that it's time for me to go. I'll be looking for employment soon I'm sure as Andre would like me to be gone! They do not appreciate the fact that I have "taken Tim's side," as they put it. I actually got a box and put it next to my desk today because I knew that they'd let me go. But I'm still on the clock and will report Monday.
Enough venting. I'm so proud of Lisa, the 'Sun Devil." I can hardly wait for Nicole to bring forth Mylie Makanalani. I love Jodie's Valentine metal decor. I love Becky's photoshop talents. And of course, I'm proud of all my boys, and crazy about my grandchildren.
Have a great weekend. Love you all. Dad and Mom
