Raiya was born with the idea that everyone exists to please her. And believe me, she'll let you know when she wants your attention! She is a bit smaller than her sister and is incredibly scared of noises, especially thunder. When even the smallest thunderstorm hits, you can usually find her shaking under the couch.

Tinka is much more independent than her sister and isn't as scared of noises. Tinka will come and greet you, but usually only after Raiya has demanded your attention. When Tinka really gets to know you, she will actually jump up on your lap...but don't expect her to stay very long.

As you might imagine, missionary dogs have a special life. Their mission is to comfort the homesick and occasionally help the choir with the singing. They particularly love sleeping under the wood stove, often walking away sweating...only to go back a few minutes later. Being that these are missionary dogs in Japan, they enjoy a healthy diet of rice. Since I am often a guest in these parts, it has not been unusual for me to eat with the dogs. (Okay, I don't actually eat out of their bowls, but you get the picture.) They're also great at getting me up in the morning ...nothing like getting hit repeatedly in the head by a paw while another dog smothers you with slobber.

Onoyama-san, the head of the Japanese fellowship, sometimes brings her dog Manu over to play. Manu's a cute little dog with a lot of energy, perhaps too much. Tinka and Raiya, good Christian dogs that they are, patiently endure Manu's occasional visits.

©1997 Ray Hanson. All rights reserved.