Heeeeeeeeey!
First off, could you send me a copy of this letter? I liked the awesome quotes! (see below) I almost laughed out loud! Especially the one about the hearse! That is definitely true, especially here.
We've run into so many people who say things like, "Yes, I'm catholic," but when we ask them what that means, they just say, "That I have a belief in God." Hmm....
But we do have someone, who I have told you about (Rosemin) who is progressing very well. She still has a baptismal date for not this Saturday, but I believe the following. Hopefully and prayerfully, that still works out. Seeing the happiness and understanding she has from praying and investigating the Church...I just makes me realize and appreciate just why we are out here, and is a testimony to me of the truthfulness of the gospel, and the great blessings it brings to everyone who truly seeks it out.
Let's see, this week...
We didn't do very well this week, in all honesty. During my time with Elder Jenks, we reached an awesome goal of 30 lessons, and over 70 OYMs. With Elder Neilson, there was only 1 day I didn't get my OYMs, and a constant number of 21 - 23 lessons each week. Here...Only 32 OYMs, and 6 lessons. A major part of that is that my companion suffers from really bad migraines, and so there were 2 days that we were inside for almost the entire day, and 2 other days when we left after 6:00 at night. The medicine he's taking isn't helping very much, and so it's frustrating when we can't get out and work. So this last, most recent time, I organized the upper room where we study, and designed a board that should cut weekly planning down from 4 crazy-long hours (or more, sometimes. We do weekly planning each Thursday) to just 1.5. I'm really excited to put it together! And this week...I'm really looking forward to working hard until I can't work anymore. Then, I can finish the week out, and if we haven't reached our goals...I can know we've worked our hardest!
We found someone (Well, re-found someone, I guess) named Beto. I went over and talked with him, set up an appointment (which he actually wasn't there for, but we'll see later). He wants to stop drinking, and he asked for a copy of the Book of Mormon. I didn't have one on me, so I promised I'd get it to him later. A few minutes later, I had recovered my backpack from the car, and we were teaching an investigator outside of his house. Beto came over and asked for the Book of Mormon (He was partially drunk as well...but anyway!). I said, "Sure!" marked 3 Nephi 11 (the first thing that came to my mind), and gave the Book of Mormon to him. He's a pretty cool guy, and hopefully we'll be able to find him again soon, to be able to teach him!
Oh, and one more thing about Rosemin - She even brought a friend to Church this past Sunday! I'm not sure what her friend thought, because they had to leave quickly after Sacrament meeting (Meme L., her future fiance, was going over to Galvaston to meet her parents. I hope everything went well!
Thank you very much for the package!! I got everything and really appreciate it!
Well, on that note...I'm going to hit the road. I still have to E-mail President Saylin!
I love y'all sooooooo much! Thank you for all your prayers, love, and sacrifice!
Con amor - a infinidad - y mas alla!
El Devinator
Below are the quotes he received:
"The best vitamin for a Christian is B1."
"Under same management for over 2000 years"
"The wages of sin is death. Repent before payday."
"Christians, keep the faith... But not from others!"
"Seven days without prayer makes one weak."
"Prevent truth decay. Brush up on your Bible (or Book of Mormon)."
"Beat the Christmas rush, come to church this Sunday!"
"Don't wait for the hearse to take you to church."
"No Jesus - no peace, Know Jesus - know peace!"
"Never give the devil a ride. He will always want to drive."
"Satan subtracts and divides. God multiplies and multiplies."
"It's hard to stumble when you're down on your knees."
"God answers kneemail!"
Monday, October 25, 2010
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Week 23 - Concluding Speaker in Church (in Spanish!)
Hey hey hey!
How's everything going? It was absolutely AWESOME to get your e-mail! And thanks for the conference talks! They actually came in really handy, especially because I had to give my first talk in church this past sunday, while I've been out in the field.
I gave a talk in the MTC, but that was only about 5 minutes, and I read directly off the paper. This past sunday, the ward mission leader gave me a call (along with another new missionary, Elder Nash from Oregon) and a sister who is heading back to temple square this coming week. I was called to speak last. That was definitely something new! I haven't even been the concluding speaker in English before! So I was preparing my talk for about 3 days beforehand, and even up to the last few minutes before I got up to speak. And I said a HUGE prayer just before going up there. Once I got up there, my nervousness and worry kind of went away, and I stood there, not reading 100% off my paper, just kind of glancing down for cues and scripture references, and I talked for the remaining 15 minutes. I definitely owe a lot to the Lord and the Holy Ghost for bringing everything to my rememberance that I needed!!! I was speaking with words I had struggled with before, and saying just what came to mind. It's interesting: My last companion, Elder Neilson, talked about now worrying about what to say. It was a lot like Qui-gon in Star Wars (I love making those comparisons!! ): "Feel, don't think. Trust your instincts." (or, in this case, the Spirit) At first, I thought: "What?! That's kind of...weird." But I've realized that that's a way to trust in the Lord and the Spirit. When those impressions come to mind as to what I need to say, I need to say them, and they're usually what the people we're teaching need to hear. Pretty sweet experience!
Haha and yes, the house IS on that same cul-de-sac, and very close to the ocean. I'll see if I can take some pictures today and develop them, then send them back home. It's an amazing area!! The family is great, and they have 1 son still at home (Along with 3 daughters, married, and I think 1 other son). But Joshua, the 1 son they have at home, has only been home for about 4 days of the past 2.5 weeks. He's been traveling to visit family, like his brother and sisters. Lots of road and flight time!
You mentioned birthday and Christmas coming up. Umm....I think I'll have to put in some more thought on those. Music is always good, especially classical and MoTab, with a little bit of EFY thrown in (And I think that's the extent of the music we're able to listen to!) But I was wondering if you'd be able to send something out in the next week or two: Because Halloween's coming up, I had a question. Is anyone using that Superman tie? If they are, that's fine. No worries! But if not...We can't really dress up, so I'm thinking that might be the extent of my dressing up for this year (Which I don't like very much. I love throwing together costumes and stuff! I guess this will have to do! I'll be a missionary for halloween this year!)
Also, could you send out that Calorie King book? And maybe a suggestion on where I might be able to get a less-expensive food scale, or brands that are good but don't cost too much? I might be counting carbs soon...yippie!!!
And one last thing - Could you send me the lyrics to "With a Touch of the Master's Hand?" I've had that in my head a lot, and I want to get the right words stuck in there.
So, we also went to the Temple this past week. An awesome experience! It was different from the Sacramento temple, sitting there, especially with the little bit of time that we had there. Within minutes, we were in and out of the Celestial Room. I would have liked a little more time to meditate, but I did get the chance to talk into the voice recorder and record some of the inspiration I receive. It was definitely an interesting experience.
Oh, and CERTAINLY not least: We have a really solid investigator named Rosemin. She's the boyfriend of the ward clerk (I think I told you about the experience we had when we extended the baptismal date - very cool! If not, I'll record it and send it on over!) We came back later and asked her if she prayed about Joseph Smith, and she said, "yes." Then, we asked if she knew that he was a prophet of God. She gave a solid, "Yes," without hesitation. I haven't seen anyone answer like that since I've been out here in the field! It was such a great experience, and the Spirit was just crazy strong! There aren't really words to describe it!
Haha so those stickers and bell...they might come in very handy! And actually, I might see if I can trade in my mountain bike for one of those beach cruisers you see everywhere in Chico State. We'll be riding in style haha...but only if they have cruisers with mountain bike gears!!
Good to see everything is going so well! Well, minus Taylor with her torn tendons!
And Janne...Really makes me wonder what Steve is thinking right now, and how quickly he'll be up there with the swat team...
Pues, necesito salir. Pero, voy a escribir una carta a vosotros! Nos vemos, y hasta luego!
Les amo - a infinidad, y mas alla!!!!
El Devinator
How's everything going? It was absolutely AWESOME to get your e-mail! And thanks for the conference talks! They actually came in really handy, especially because I had to give my first talk in church this past sunday, while I've been out in the field.
I gave a talk in the MTC, but that was only about 5 minutes, and I read directly off the paper. This past sunday, the ward mission leader gave me a call (along with another new missionary, Elder Nash from Oregon) and a sister who is heading back to temple square this coming week. I was called to speak last. That was definitely something new! I haven't even been the concluding speaker in English before! So I was preparing my talk for about 3 days beforehand, and even up to the last few minutes before I got up to speak. And I said a HUGE prayer just before going up there. Once I got up there, my nervousness and worry kind of went away, and I stood there, not reading 100% off my paper, just kind of glancing down for cues and scripture references, and I talked for the remaining 15 minutes. I definitely owe a lot to the Lord and the Holy Ghost for bringing everything to my rememberance that I needed!!! I was speaking with words I had struggled with before, and saying just what came to mind. It's interesting: My last companion, Elder Neilson, talked about now worrying about what to say. It was a lot like Qui-gon in Star Wars (I love making those comparisons!! ): "Feel, don't think. Trust your instincts." (or, in this case, the Spirit) At first, I thought: "What?! That's kind of...weird." But I've realized that that's a way to trust in the Lord and the Spirit. When those impressions come to mind as to what I need to say, I need to say them, and they're usually what the people we're teaching need to hear. Pretty sweet experience!
Haha and yes, the house IS on that same cul-de-sac, and very close to the ocean. I'll see if I can take some pictures today and develop them, then send them back home. It's an amazing area!! The family is great, and they have 1 son still at home (Along with 3 daughters, married, and I think 1 other son). But Joshua, the 1 son they have at home, has only been home for about 4 days of the past 2.5 weeks. He's been traveling to visit family, like his brother and sisters. Lots of road and flight time!
You mentioned birthday and Christmas coming up. Umm....I think I'll have to put in some more thought on those. Music is always good, especially classical and MoTab, with a little bit of EFY thrown in (And I think that's the extent of the music we're able to listen to!) But I was wondering if you'd be able to send something out in the next week or two: Because Halloween's coming up, I had a question. Is anyone using that Superman tie? If they are, that's fine. No worries! But if not...We can't really dress up, so I'm thinking that might be the extent of my dressing up for this year (Which I don't like very much. I love throwing together costumes and stuff! I guess this will have to do! I'll be a missionary for halloween this year!)
Also, could you send out that Calorie King book? And maybe a suggestion on where I might be able to get a less-expensive food scale, or brands that are good but don't cost too much? I might be counting carbs soon...yippie!!!
And one last thing - Could you send me the lyrics to "With a Touch of the Master's Hand?" I've had that in my head a lot, and I want to get the right words stuck in there.
So, we also went to the Temple this past week. An awesome experience! It was different from the Sacramento temple, sitting there, especially with the little bit of time that we had there. Within minutes, we were in and out of the Celestial Room. I would have liked a little more time to meditate, but I did get the chance to talk into the voice recorder and record some of the inspiration I receive. It was definitely an interesting experience.
Oh, and CERTAINLY not least: We have a really solid investigator named Rosemin. She's the boyfriend of the ward clerk (I think I told you about the experience we had when we extended the baptismal date - very cool! If not, I'll record it and send it on over!) We came back later and asked her if she prayed about Joseph Smith, and she said, "yes." Then, we asked if she knew that he was a prophet of God. She gave a solid, "Yes," without hesitation. I haven't seen anyone answer like that since I've been out here in the field! It was such a great experience, and the Spirit was just crazy strong! There aren't really words to describe it!
Haha so those stickers and bell...they might come in very handy! And actually, I might see if I can trade in my mountain bike for one of those beach cruisers you see everywhere in Chico State. We'll be riding in style haha...but only if they have cruisers with mountain bike gears!!
Good to see everything is going so well! Well, minus Taylor with her torn tendons!
And Janne...Really makes me wonder what Steve is thinking right now, and how quickly he'll be up there with the swat team...
Pues, necesito salir. Pero, voy a escribir una carta a vosotros! Nos vemos, y hasta luego!
Les amo - a infinidad, y mas alla!!!!
El Devinator
Monday, October 11, 2010
Week 22 - Transferred to a New Area!
Hey hey hey!!
How ya'll doing today?!
Before I get too in-depth, here's the address:
101 Bending Shore Court
League City, TX 77573
And actually, here's the interesting thing: We're living with members. They're members of the English ward, but members nonetheless. It's very weird, to say the least. There are different rules to living with members as opposed to living solo in un apartmento. Like, this isn't just our place. We actually need to clean up after ourselves. And so there's good and bad about it. The good, is that they're great people, always nice to talk to and ever helpful. The bad...they're AWESOME people!!
As we were upstairs planning, I heard someone on the show they were watching say the names: "McGee! Abby!" "Whoa, hold up there, boss!" "I don't think so, Denozzo!" So, they love NCIS, they have Star Wars shirts sitting up on the dresser at the top of the stairs, and they have a box of Stargate DVDs sitting on top of the bookshelf. I haven't really talked to them about all that, but I'd better be careful not to get unfocused on all of that!
Anyways, Kemah (Our area, though we live in League City) is pretty cool. It's HUGE. We cover about 5 towns. Not little cities, towns. And we're in a car, of which I am actually not too big of a fan. I look forward to riding my bike around, and talking to people. Because of transfers and my lack of desire this past week, what with everything moving around, I only got 27 OYMs. Terrible. So this week, we'll hopefully be on our bikes more often. That way, we can talk to more people and get more appointments, and from that, more lessons.
We did have a great lesson this past week. The ward clerk, who we call Meme for some reason (or gordo, because he calls us flaco uno y flaco dos), has a girlfriend that he wanted to introduce to the Church. So we went over and taught her. He told us beforehand that he wanted her taught bit by bit, piece by piece, and to not extend a baptismal date in the first lesson. We decided to let the Spirit guide, and if she wasn't ready for a date yet, we'd wait till next time.
When we taught, we had the AMAZING opportunity of having the Spirit strongly present in the lesson. By the end, we extended the baptismal date, and she accepted! She is preparing to be baptized on the 30th of October, at the end of this month. She seems very solid about it, and hopefully she keeps those desires.
This past Saturday, we also had a Tri-Mission conference. Elder Claudio R.M.Costa was there! He spoke at General Conference, I think in the Saturday afternoon session. It was a great lesson! One of the things he taught us was about OYMs: a new approach. He would go up to someone and ask, "Are you a member of our Church?" and when they would say, "No," he would ask, "Why not?" One thing led to another, and eventually, each of those people he talked to invited him and the missionaries back for a visit. It was a very good conference, and was great to learn what he came all the way from Salt Lake to teach us.
Let's see, what more to say? Oh, my companion: Elder McGuire. He's from the Sacramento area. Small world? He's a good, hardworking missionary. So far, we've gotten along just fine.
Well, I've got to hit the road now. We've done e-mailing a little differently than I'm used to, so I'm not sure if I'll be able to get a written letter off. If not, just know that I love you, Mom, Dad, Justin, Kaytlin, and Kristin, and I keep you in my prayers each and every day!
I love you all, a infinidad - y mas alla!!
Con amor,
El Devinator
How ya'll doing today?!
Before I get too in-depth, here's the address:
101 Bending Shore Court
League City, TX 77573
And actually, here's the interesting thing: We're living with members. They're members of the English ward, but members nonetheless. It's very weird, to say the least. There are different rules to living with members as opposed to living solo in un apartmento. Like, this isn't just our place. We actually need to clean up after ourselves. And so there's good and bad about it. The good, is that they're great people, always nice to talk to and ever helpful. The bad...they're AWESOME people!!
As we were upstairs planning, I heard someone on the show they were watching say the names: "McGee! Abby!" "Whoa, hold up there, boss!" "I don't think so, Denozzo!" So, they love NCIS, they have Star Wars shirts sitting up on the dresser at the top of the stairs, and they have a box of Stargate DVDs sitting on top of the bookshelf. I haven't really talked to them about all that, but I'd better be careful not to get unfocused on all of that!
Anyways, Kemah (Our area, though we live in League City) is pretty cool. It's HUGE. We cover about 5 towns. Not little cities, towns. And we're in a car, of which I am actually not too big of a fan. I look forward to riding my bike around, and talking to people. Because of transfers and my lack of desire this past week, what with everything moving around, I only got 27 OYMs. Terrible. So this week, we'll hopefully be on our bikes more often. That way, we can talk to more people and get more appointments, and from that, more lessons.
We did have a great lesson this past week. The ward clerk, who we call Meme for some reason (or gordo, because he calls us flaco uno y flaco dos), has a girlfriend that he wanted to introduce to the Church. So we went over and taught her. He told us beforehand that he wanted her taught bit by bit, piece by piece, and to not extend a baptismal date in the first lesson. We decided to let the Spirit guide, and if she wasn't ready for a date yet, we'd wait till next time.
When we taught, we had the AMAZING opportunity of having the Spirit strongly present in the lesson. By the end, we extended the baptismal date, and she accepted! She is preparing to be baptized on the 30th of October, at the end of this month. She seems very solid about it, and hopefully she keeps those desires.
This past Saturday, we also had a Tri-Mission conference. Elder Claudio R.M.Costa was there! He spoke at General Conference, I think in the Saturday afternoon session. It was a great lesson! One of the things he taught us was about OYMs: a new approach. He would go up to someone and ask, "Are you a member of our Church?" and when they would say, "No," he would ask, "Why not?" One thing led to another, and eventually, each of those people he talked to invited him and the missionaries back for a visit. It was a very good conference, and was great to learn what he came all the way from Salt Lake to teach us.
Let's see, what more to say? Oh, my companion: Elder McGuire. He's from the Sacramento area. Small world? He's a good, hardworking missionary. So far, we've gotten along just fine.
Well, I've got to hit the road now. We've done e-mailing a little differently than I'm used to, so I'm not sure if I'll be able to get a written letter off. If not, just know that I love you, Mom, Dad, Justin, Kaytlin, and Kristin, and I keep you in my prayers each and every day!
I love you all, a infinidad - y mas alla!!
Con amor,
El Devinator
Monday, October 4, 2010
Week 21 - Transfers this week...
Hola! Bonjour! Buenos Dias!
Wow! Life IS changing around quite a bit! I'm going to have some new cousins when I get back! Yippie-kie-ehhh!! And it sounds like life is going to sure be an adventure, just as it always is!
haha I'm glad Kaytlin liked the ants!! They were pretty tasty (at one point, with the first one. After that, though, they kind of got less delicious...and less...and less.......As for why I ate them...bragging rights? haha no. I just knew if I didn't try them then, I might never try them again! At least I know what they're like now! I've had that experience!
Thanks for Mikey's address! With everything we're doing today (pictures, maybe some shopping, eating) I'm not sure who I'll be able to write. But hopefully - I'll get a letter or two off! So if I'm unable to get a family letter off this week...that's why. But you can be sure to expect a nice and good update in the coming week!
You said what Kaytlin does for this Science Ambassadors program is go and learn more in the world of science, and then teach it to elementary-grade kids. Does she have any desire to be a teacher when she's older? Has she taught any classes so far?
haha and as for Elder Neilson - That's just his personality. He usually does smile and joke around a lot, with missionaries, members and investigators alike. He's got a way with people that really sets them at ease, and leads to better conversations about gospel topics, where they're a little more receptive. That's something I want to emulate in my own life and teaching.
And Justin - Thanks for the letter!!!!! I know you don't like to write a lot, which makes it even more awesome to get in the mail! And how're you feeling? Pain from the wisdom teeth starting to ease up a bit? Hopefully, all is well in a little while! And back to school again!! (haha fun...) Best of luck with the driver's test this coming week!! Or the next week...monday, right? And before I forget - there's someone sitting at the computer next to me (not my companion) who's playing Runescape. I was like, "Runescape?! Justin!! I remember that!!"
Love you!
Love,
El Devinator
Good job with the test, mom! I know it wasn't the grade you were looking for, but do you find out the areas you need to study now? It's going to be a lot of work, but just take some of what the apostles said (I think it was President Uchtdorf):
"Slow down and simplify life."
Not that you need to study any less, or take any less classes. But maybe that you have some time set aside specifically for study, and focus on that then, not letting the worries of all your other classes or tasks that need to be done fill your mind. Just focus on what you're doing at the time, and pray for the guidance you need to prepare and achieve the results you want and need.
And speaking of conference: It was WAYYYY too fast! I was sitting there in the chapel afterwards, thinking, "What? It can't be over yet. We need another session. Maybe a week's worth of sessions." I felt incredibly spiritually uplifted. It's awesome to be able to simply focus on the work on the Lord, and that makes the words of His Prophet and Apostles have so much more value in my mind. I'm definitely looking forward to the next session of conference - coming to a chapel and TV near you, April 2011!
Recipes - Any recipes are ALWAYS welcome! And that book is a big help! I'll for sure be using the cookbook in days to come! And I think I've come up with a food schedule that works fairly well for the week. Breakfast, lunch and dinner ideas. I'm still looking for snack ideas, though. I'll be eating a lot of Jiffy Pancakes and Oatmeal, and a lot less of cereal. Which is good. I want to try to find some healthy things too, though. Things that are healthy but less-expensive. And I'm not in need of a journal. Actually, I think this one should last me almost to the end of my mission. It says that there's 400 pages in there, and the pages are pretty big. But I'll be sure to let you know if I'm in need of another one anytime soon!! And I'm looking forward to hearing your voices sometime in the near future, too, once you find the voice recorder! It'll be awesome!!
And...the moment of truth.......
drumroll, please.....
The transfer word is........
I'm getting transfered. And so is Garrett, ahem, Elder Black. It sure is going to be interesting.
I'll go where the Lord wants me to go. And where ever I'm going, that's where He needs me. But I've come to love this place soooo much. The people here are amazing! They're so humble and willing to learn, and willing to lend an ear, even if they don't want to change. The branch, though small, is really more of a family. You've got the older, more vetran-like members/converts to the Church, who are kind of like the loving parents to...well, to everyone. It's been great.
We haven't had a baptism here yet, which has been kind of disappointing. But we do have a few dates set up for this coming month and the beginning of the next, dates which should turn out great if they are able to get work off and begin attending Church. Luis is still pretty solid, but he hasn't come over to church in quite some time. Enrique, though his mother said he can't be baptized, is still coming out to church functions and on Sundays. Carlos is still reading and looking for his answer. And Juan...we'll see what happens with Juan. He's a great guy, and I love him to death. Satan's been working on him pretty good, and he won't pick up the Book of Mormon "because of the easiness of the way." Hopefully, sooner rather than later, he'll pick it up, read, and realize the feelings and blessings he had when he began reading and praying the first times.
To tell you the truth, I'm really anxious about transfers. I've really been getting along with Elder Neilson, and that took a lot of work to do, on my part. Just the general connecting with anyone. Though I may be incredibly talkative and outgoing at home, it's been tough to connect with anyone to the point where I can really consider us good friends. I've been able to do that with Elder Neilson, and just when we hit that point, the transfer calls come. Elder Neilson is a great missionary, and I know he's going to go on and do great things, both here in the feild, and whatever he does later on in life. He's got the drive, the work ethic, and the friendliness to make good any situation.
Well, I've got to get going. I still have to send my weekly report in to President Saylin. But I just wanted to let you know that I love you SOOOOO much! I keep you in my prayers every night and every morning, and thank you so much for keeping me in yours!!! I can feel the strength I gain from your prayers each and every day!! Please keep me especially in your prayers this week, that we can start the new transfer off great!!
I love you all!!! Thank you for everything!! Keep up the good work!!!
Con todo de mi amor,
El Devinator
Wow! Life IS changing around quite a bit! I'm going to have some new cousins when I get back! Yippie-kie-ehhh!! And it sounds like life is going to sure be an adventure, just as it always is!
haha I'm glad Kaytlin liked the ants!! They were pretty tasty (at one point, with the first one. After that, though, they kind of got less delicious...and less...and less.......As for why I ate them...bragging rights? haha no. I just knew if I didn't try them then, I might never try them again! At least I know what they're like now! I've had that experience!
Thanks for Mikey's address! With everything we're doing today (pictures, maybe some shopping, eating) I'm not sure who I'll be able to write. But hopefully - I'll get a letter or two off! So if I'm unable to get a family letter off this week...that's why. But you can be sure to expect a nice and good update in the coming week!
You said what Kaytlin does for this Science Ambassadors program is go and learn more in the world of science, and then teach it to elementary-grade kids. Does she have any desire to be a teacher when she's older? Has she taught any classes so far?
haha and as for Elder Neilson - That's just his personality. He usually does smile and joke around a lot, with missionaries, members and investigators alike. He's got a way with people that really sets them at ease, and leads to better conversations about gospel topics, where they're a little more receptive. That's something I want to emulate in my own life and teaching.
And Justin - Thanks for the letter!!!!! I know you don't like to write a lot, which makes it even more awesome to get in the mail! And how're you feeling? Pain from the wisdom teeth starting to ease up a bit? Hopefully, all is well in a little while! And back to school again!! (haha fun...) Best of luck with the driver's test this coming week!! Or the next week...monday, right? And before I forget - there's someone sitting at the computer next to me (not my companion) who's playing Runescape. I was like, "Runescape?! Justin!! I remember that!!"
Love you!
Love,
El Devinator
Good job with the test, mom! I know it wasn't the grade you were looking for, but do you find out the areas you need to study now? It's going to be a lot of work, but just take some of what the apostles said (I think it was President Uchtdorf):
"Slow down and simplify life."
Not that you need to study any less, or take any less classes. But maybe that you have some time set aside specifically for study, and focus on that then, not letting the worries of all your other classes or tasks that need to be done fill your mind. Just focus on what you're doing at the time, and pray for the guidance you need to prepare and achieve the results you want and need.
And speaking of conference: It was WAYYYY too fast! I was sitting there in the chapel afterwards, thinking, "What? It can't be over yet. We need another session. Maybe a week's worth of sessions." I felt incredibly spiritually uplifted. It's awesome to be able to simply focus on the work on the Lord, and that makes the words of His Prophet and Apostles have so much more value in my mind. I'm definitely looking forward to the next session of conference - coming to a chapel and TV near you, April 2011!
Recipes - Any recipes are ALWAYS welcome! And that book is a big help! I'll for sure be using the cookbook in days to come! And I think I've come up with a food schedule that works fairly well for the week. Breakfast, lunch and dinner ideas. I'm still looking for snack ideas, though. I'll be eating a lot of Jiffy Pancakes and Oatmeal, and a lot less of cereal. Which is good. I want to try to find some healthy things too, though. Things that are healthy but less-expensive. And I'm not in need of a journal. Actually, I think this one should last me almost to the end of my mission. It says that there's 400 pages in there, and the pages are pretty big. But I'll be sure to let you know if I'm in need of another one anytime soon!! And I'm looking forward to hearing your voices sometime in the near future, too, once you find the voice recorder! It'll be awesome!!
And...the moment of truth.......
drumroll, please.....
The transfer word is........
I'm getting transfered. And so is Garrett, ahem, Elder Black. It sure is going to be interesting.
I'll go where the Lord wants me to go. And where ever I'm going, that's where He needs me. But I've come to love this place soooo much. The people here are amazing! They're so humble and willing to learn, and willing to lend an ear, even if they don't want to change. The branch, though small, is really more of a family. You've got the older, more vetran-like members/converts to the Church, who are kind of like the loving parents to...well, to everyone. It's been great.
We haven't had a baptism here yet, which has been kind of disappointing. But we do have a few dates set up for this coming month and the beginning of the next, dates which should turn out great if they are able to get work off and begin attending Church. Luis is still pretty solid, but he hasn't come over to church in quite some time. Enrique, though his mother said he can't be baptized, is still coming out to church functions and on Sundays. Carlos is still reading and looking for his answer. And Juan...we'll see what happens with Juan. He's a great guy, and I love him to death. Satan's been working on him pretty good, and he won't pick up the Book of Mormon "because of the easiness of the way." Hopefully, sooner rather than later, he'll pick it up, read, and realize the feelings and blessings he had when he began reading and praying the first times.
To tell you the truth, I'm really anxious about transfers. I've really been getting along with Elder Neilson, and that took a lot of work to do, on my part. Just the general connecting with anyone. Though I may be incredibly talkative and outgoing at home, it's been tough to connect with anyone to the point where I can really consider us good friends. I've been able to do that with Elder Neilson, and just when we hit that point, the transfer calls come. Elder Neilson is a great missionary, and I know he's going to go on and do great things, both here in the feild, and whatever he does later on in life. He's got the drive, the work ethic, and the friendliness to make good any situation.
Well, I've got to get going. I still have to send my weekly report in to President Saylin. But I just wanted to let you know that I love you SOOOOO much! I keep you in my prayers every night and every morning, and thank you so much for keeping me in yours!!! I can feel the strength I gain from your prayers each and every day!! Please keep me especially in your prayers this week, that we can start the new transfer off great!!
I love you all!!! Thank you for everything!! Keep up the good work!!!
Con todo de mi amor,
El Devinator
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Week 20
Hie-de-ho, there, familia!!!!
It's great to see things are going so great (Minus for the stressing, but that'll pass as the test passes...and then there will be more tests...anyway, great to hear about Outback! Sounds like everything went AWESOME-ly, especially with the Aussie-style fries! I love those things! And the bread is AMAZING!
And especially, thank you so much for Elder Lowe's address! I've been wanting to write to him and see how he's doing. It looks like he's out in Florida for right now. Hopefully, if he's waiting on his visa, it'll come through in a bit!!
And Stake Young Men's Secretary for dad?! I'll bet he's really excited for that! He gets to work with the youth again, in one manner or another! Just (almost) like olde times!!
Things seem to be a-changin': Justin's probably not too excited for braces OR wisdom teeth. Has he talked to you about it at all? I sent him a letter this past week. Do you think he might write back? I'm really wanting to hear how he's doing. We talked just fine at home. A letter is just putting those words on paper. Hopefully, everything goes well with the wisdom teeth. Tell him I love him! And best of luck with the wisdom teeth and braces! I need to see some pictures if he eventually gets them put on!! And I'll be sending some pictures down here, too, in this week or the week coming.
Sorry about that cold, Kaytlin! I have been working on getting over one, too. Hopefully, it's not too bad, and it's almost gone. How's the soccer going? Still playing goalie at a game or two?
hahaha way to go, Kristin! Filming AND costumes! I remember a couple of those times that we filmed and got into costume, like Brad with that 'Popcorn' video, or dressing up for some of the more intense 'Ninja Training Camp' episodes. I'll bet you had a lot of fun!!
Wow, looks like things are busy outside the immediate fam, tambien! How do Amy and Jimmy like the fact that Kylie is coming back so soon? And when did they first have their exchange student move in? Has Collin been there for a while? Does he speak English pretty well? What language do they speak in Belgium? French, right?
Then school's going to get even busier! Don't worry, though: You're going to do great on your mid-term. Just study hard, and pray beforehand. But it sounds to me like a really good plan of action, school-plan-wise! You've always been interested in education - and the 'intreaguing' things about society...mainly the people we all run into. If you could see some of the people we've run into out here! Not that they're bad, or weird, or anything like that. It's just that each and every day brings new experiences, and exposes me to some type of person I haven't encountered before. And with billions of people here on the earth, there are billions and billions of thought patterns and philosophies that are always really interesting to hear. But even though they're interesting to hear, it's an interesting feeling to know that the message we carry is one that can bless them not just in this life (though we are blessed beyond measure for our obedience to God), but in the life to come. I'm especially looking forward to the blessing of an eternal family. I need to learn how to explain that better in OYMs, because that's incredibly important and unique to the Church of Jesus Christ. His Church. The One and Only.
Before I forget: I did get the cookbook, from the mission office. Maybe we just accidentally threw away the notice that we had something in the front office. I'll have to check when I get back. Usually if we see a pile of advertisements in our mailbox, we just toss them in the garbage. I think now I'll check through, first. Journal-wise, I have one up here that I'm going to start, so for right now - I don't think I need a new one yet. Lorenzo...we haven't talked to him since, but he wasn't very open the first time, so we're spending more time trying to find and teach the people who have been prepared by God here. Luis had a baptismal date for yesterday, but alas! He didn't come to Church the Sunday before, so we had to move his date to the 30th of October. And now we may have a problem, because we didn't realize we were going to have a Halloween party/baptism. The wards in the building are going to be throwing a Halloween party that same night. Maybe we can move his baptism up if he gets to church 2 more times, and has the true desire to go.
My companion's been great. He's been helping me to open up and talk more (which I've had a big problem with here - especially during lessons and when I'm frustrated at the apartment). He's a really cool Elder, and he's been handling the stress of District Leader well. I don't know how he does all that he does! But somehow, he does it, and things turn out alright in the end!
And let's see, the mission in general...The mission is a great experience! I don't think there is anything in this world that could compare - and maybe even in the universe - to the work we're doing. Where else do you get to wake up each and every morning, with the spiritually-confirmed knowledge from God that we're going out into the world to bring God's children back to Him? No one else has this ability, other than this Church. And it's amazing to see the change in people when they realize it, too.
That doesn't mean it isn't tough, frustrating, or discouraging sometimes. There have been days when I just don't feel I can go on, and that I'm ready to give up. But then something comes into my mind that helps me to keep going. The Spirit moves me to pick myself up and continue the work of the One who has sent us here. Very frequently, the Lord reminds me of my inadequacies in teaching, in Spanish, in talking to people...but then he helps me get through it. A huge help has been my companion, Elder Neilson.
Oh, and we do have transfers next week. The transfer has flown by far too quickly!! So if you send a letter this week to this address, I'll get it by Friday or Saturday. And then on Monday I can let you know if I'll be getting transfered, and if the letters need to be sent to the mission office until I can give you my new address. We'll see. I love this area, so...we'll see.
During the week! Some great things were a'happenin'!
After an appointment with someone named Donato (Almost one of the Ninja Turtles!), we got stuck behind a stopped train that was having some mechanical problems, so it was stopped, blocking traffic between Richmond and Rosenburg for about an hour. We were trying to get to another appointment, but we couldn't cross the tracks (illegal AND a bad idea). So we talked to some people in the infinitely long line of cars that was waiting to go across. We talked to one guy (a Pastor - Yes, there are SO MANY over here) that asked us a lot of questions about how he can be saved. Surprisingly, he wasn't as argumentative as some of the other pastors we've run into here 'abouts. He gave us a card for the address of his church, and told us to stop by. That'll be sometime this week, so hopefully we get the chance to see him!
Someone else we talked to we think was the reason why the train stopped. A lot of people were calling us over to their cars to find out what was going on. One of these people called us over, and eventually asked what we did as missionaries. This hombre and his wife had a lot of questions. She was studying with the Jehovah's Witnesses, but didn't seem too fond of them. As soon as we got their address (here in town) the train started moving again. We walked with the car for a bit, trying to set up an appointment with Frederico (the hombre in the car). We'll see how it goes this week!!!!
Well, I've got to his the road. I've loved hearing about everything going on over there! There's always something new, it sounds like!!
I love you all SOOOOOO MUCHO!! A infinidad - Y mas alla!!!
Love,
El Devinator
It's great to see things are going so great (Minus for the stressing, but that'll pass as the test passes...and then there will be more tests...anyway, great to hear about Outback! Sounds like everything went AWESOME-ly, especially with the Aussie-style fries! I love those things! And the bread is AMAZING!
And especially, thank you so much for Elder Lowe's address! I've been wanting to write to him and see how he's doing. It looks like he's out in Florida for right now. Hopefully, if he's waiting on his visa, it'll come through in a bit!!
And Stake Young Men's Secretary for dad?! I'll bet he's really excited for that! He gets to work with the youth again, in one manner or another! Just (almost) like olde times!!
Things seem to be a-changin': Justin's probably not too excited for braces OR wisdom teeth. Has he talked to you about it at all? I sent him a letter this past week. Do you think he might write back? I'm really wanting to hear how he's doing. We talked just fine at home. A letter is just putting those words on paper. Hopefully, everything goes well with the wisdom teeth. Tell him I love him! And best of luck with the wisdom teeth and braces! I need to see some pictures if he eventually gets them put on!! And I'll be sending some pictures down here, too, in this week or the week coming.
Sorry about that cold, Kaytlin! I have been working on getting over one, too. Hopefully, it's not too bad, and it's almost gone. How's the soccer going? Still playing goalie at a game or two?
hahaha way to go, Kristin! Filming AND costumes! I remember a couple of those times that we filmed and got into costume, like Brad with that 'Popcorn' video, or dressing up for some of the more intense 'Ninja Training Camp' episodes. I'll bet you had a lot of fun!!
Wow, looks like things are busy outside the immediate fam, tambien! How do Amy and Jimmy like the fact that Kylie is coming back so soon? And when did they first have their exchange student move in? Has Collin been there for a while? Does he speak English pretty well? What language do they speak in Belgium? French, right?
Then school's going to get even busier! Don't worry, though: You're going to do great on your mid-term. Just study hard, and pray beforehand. But it sounds to me like a really good plan of action, school-plan-wise! You've always been interested in education - and the 'intreaguing' things about society...mainly the people we all run into. If you could see some of the people we've run into out here! Not that they're bad, or weird, or anything like that. It's just that each and every day brings new experiences, and exposes me to some type of person I haven't encountered before. And with billions of people here on the earth, there are billions and billions of thought patterns and philosophies that are always really interesting to hear. But even though they're interesting to hear, it's an interesting feeling to know that the message we carry is one that can bless them not just in this life (though we are blessed beyond measure for our obedience to God), but in the life to come. I'm especially looking forward to the blessing of an eternal family. I need to learn how to explain that better in OYMs, because that's incredibly important and unique to the Church of Jesus Christ. His Church. The One and Only.
Before I forget: I did get the cookbook, from the mission office. Maybe we just accidentally threw away the notice that we had something in the front office. I'll have to check when I get back. Usually if we see a pile of advertisements in our mailbox, we just toss them in the garbage. I think now I'll check through, first. Journal-wise, I have one up here that I'm going to start, so for right now - I don't think I need a new one yet. Lorenzo...we haven't talked to him since, but he wasn't very open the first time, so we're spending more time trying to find and teach the people who have been prepared by God here. Luis had a baptismal date for yesterday, but alas! He didn't come to Church the Sunday before, so we had to move his date to the 30th of October. And now we may have a problem, because we didn't realize we were going to have a Halloween party/baptism. The wards in the building are going to be throwing a Halloween party that same night. Maybe we can move his baptism up if he gets to church 2 more times, and has the true desire to go.
My companion's been great. He's been helping me to open up and talk more (which I've had a big problem with here - especially during lessons and when I'm frustrated at the apartment). He's a really cool Elder, and he's been handling the stress of District Leader well. I don't know how he does all that he does! But somehow, he does it, and things turn out alright in the end!
And let's see, the mission in general...The mission is a great experience! I don't think there is anything in this world that could compare - and maybe even in the universe - to the work we're doing. Where else do you get to wake up each and every morning, with the spiritually-confirmed knowledge from God that we're going out into the world to bring God's children back to Him? No one else has this ability, other than this Church. And it's amazing to see the change in people when they realize it, too.
That doesn't mean it isn't tough, frustrating, or discouraging sometimes. There have been days when I just don't feel I can go on, and that I'm ready to give up. But then something comes into my mind that helps me to keep going. The Spirit moves me to pick myself up and continue the work of the One who has sent us here. Very frequently, the Lord reminds me of my inadequacies in teaching, in Spanish, in talking to people...but then he helps me get through it. A huge help has been my companion, Elder Neilson.
Oh, and we do have transfers next week. The transfer has flown by far too quickly!! So if you send a letter this week to this address, I'll get it by Friday or Saturday. And then on Monday I can let you know if I'll be getting transfered, and if the letters need to be sent to the mission office until I can give you my new address. We'll see. I love this area, so...we'll see.
During the week! Some great things were a'happenin'!
After an appointment with someone named Donato (Almost one of the Ninja Turtles!), we got stuck behind a stopped train that was having some mechanical problems, so it was stopped, blocking traffic between Richmond and Rosenburg for about an hour. We were trying to get to another appointment, but we couldn't cross the tracks (illegal AND a bad idea). So we talked to some people in the infinitely long line of cars that was waiting to go across. We talked to one guy (a Pastor - Yes, there are SO MANY over here) that asked us a lot of questions about how he can be saved. Surprisingly, he wasn't as argumentative as some of the other pastors we've run into here 'abouts. He gave us a card for the address of his church, and told us to stop by. That'll be sometime this week, so hopefully we get the chance to see him!
Someone else we talked to we think was the reason why the train stopped. A lot of people were calling us over to their cars to find out what was going on. One of these people called us over, and eventually asked what we did as missionaries. This hombre and his wife had a lot of questions. She was studying with the Jehovah's Witnesses, but didn't seem too fond of them. As soon as we got their address (here in town) the train started moving again. We walked with the car for a bit, trying to set up an appointment with Frederico (the hombre in the car). We'll see how it goes this week!!!!
Well, I've got to his the road. I've loved hearing about everything going on over there! There's always something new, it sounds like!!
I love you all SOOOOOO MUCHO!! A infinidad - Y mas alla!!!
Love,
El Devinator
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