What happened? I leave for 11 months and everything changes.
Benson turns 18, you have a 2nd anniversary, AND MATT IS ENGAGED? He has been home like two months. And, what? Benson still has a year, so don't bring up the mission yet.
I'm not that old yet.
Everything is changed and it all happend in a month. I can't believe that I have been out 11 months now and things have taken on a whole new meaning to me. Application, Responsibility, and Accountablity. We just got back from training in Richmond, and now we are going to work even harder that before. This is an exciting time to be on a mission and a great time to be a servant of the Lord, in bringing scattered Israel home. I have learned so much more about the gospel than I ever thought I would, and I have begun to feel the power of it in my life. Guiding my actions, and helping me get through each day. I have been so blessed, Elder Vosters and I have been helping each other grow and progress in this work. More than I ever thought after Elder Shock left me in charge I realized that I need a lot of help and I have been given the help I need. I just hope that I do all that I can, and that I am able to look back on this time as a success. I read back in my journal yesterday and the day before I moved to P-town, I was the Sr. companion for the day to help me realize what I needed to work on. It is funny that I felt that way 4 1/2 months ago and now look at me, I am the Sr. companion and still need a lot of work. Hopefully, not in all the same areas. But, I know that I have been given a lot of help these last few days, and I will continue to get help thoughout me mission.
I know that I have grown so much more than I would have back home at this time, and I owe it all to the Lord and this work. I am so greatful for the restored gospel on the earth, and for a prophet that is inspired to send me here to Virginia to help the people here, as well as to get help, for I need a lot.
Love you all and wish you all good luck
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read alma 7
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Trip to Tuachan - 10-21-09
Hey Son,
Benson had a simple birthday and he wanted Johnsonville brats instead of a birthday brat from sunflower market. He says that he likes the flavor better. He got luggage like the one that you got. So he will have it for his mission when he needs it.
We had a wonderful time celebrating our 2nd anniversary in St. George. We saw "Aida" at the Tuachan theater. It was incredible. First, they had live horses pulling a fullsize chariot onto the stage. Then a real camel came out with the market scene, along with pigs, coats, and chickens. Next a full size waterfall pours water down a 40 foot wide river and floods the entire stage. and then a 20 foot boat floats out onto the water, on stage. Wow! what a show. You would have loved it.
We had a great time with Sue, Sharon, Gram and Heidi here, and we are looking forward to having Sue and Robin back up here next month.
In case you haven't heard, Matt Bentz is engaged and is getting married on Dec 19th in the St. George Temple.
Mary Ann and I are still doing great on our diet. Mary Ann is down 46 lbs, and I am down 45lbs. We have about 25 days left on our diet and are hoping to drop another 20lbs each.
I hope that you are doing better this week, as you break in your new companion. You never mentioned what his name is, so let us know.
Our prayers are always with you, so take care of yourself.
We love you
Dad, Mary Ann and Benson
Benson had a simple birthday and he wanted Johnsonville brats instead of a birthday brat from sunflower market. He says that he likes the flavor better. He got luggage like the one that you got. So he will have it for his mission when he needs it.
We had a wonderful time celebrating our 2nd anniversary in St. George. We saw "Aida" at the Tuachan theater. It was incredible. First, they had live horses pulling a fullsize chariot onto the stage. Then a real camel came out with the market scene, along with pigs, coats, and chickens. Next a full size waterfall pours water down a 40 foot wide river and floods the entire stage. and then a 20 foot boat floats out onto the water, on stage. Wow! what a show. You would have loved it.
We had a great time with Sue, Sharon, Gram and Heidi here, and we are looking forward to having Sue and Robin back up here next month.
In case you haven't heard, Matt Bentz is engaged and is getting married on Dec 19th in the St. George Temple.
Mary Ann and I are still doing great on our diet. Mary Ann is down 46 lbs, and I am down 45lbs. We have about 25 days left on our diet and are hoping to drop another 20lbs each.
I hope that you are doing better this week, as you break in your new companion. You never mentioned what his name is, so let us know.
Our prayers are always with you, so take care of yourself.
We love you
Dad, Mary Ann and Benson
Congratulations - 10-14-09
William,
We had a great visit with Sue, Sharon, Grandma and Heidi this week.
Thrilled to hear that you are receiving the blessings needed to step up as the senior companion.
Good luck working with your new companion. Train him well! What is his name?
Glad to hear that things are moving forward in Portsmouth.
We love you, and pray for you everyday.
Love, Dad, Mary ann and Benson
We had a great visit with Sue, Sharon, Grandma and Heidi this week.
Thrilled to hear that you are receiving the blessings needed to step up as the senior companion.
Good luck working with your new companion. Train him well! What is his name?
Glad to hear that things are moving forward in Portsmouth.
We love you, and pray for you everyday.
Love, Dad, Mary ann and Benson
Senior Companion 10-14-09
Well, This has been an unforgetable week.
First, I got my new companion. Then, I found out that this is his second transfer. Thus, he is still green and I am step training. We started out the week a little slow but we are getting to be working harder over the next few weeks.
I have had a harder time being senior companion than I thought. But, I have been blessed with an abundance of the spirit. I have been able to see so many miracles in the last few week. There has been a change in the ward and the work in Portsmouth.
That about wraps up the week, so I love you all and will see you all later.
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read alma 7
First, I got my new companion. Then, I found out that this is his second transfer. Thus, he is still green and I am step training. We started out the week a little slow but we are getting to be working harder over the next few weeks.
I have had a harder time being senior companion than I thought. But, I have been blessed with an abundance of the spirit. I have been able to see so many miracles in the last few week. There has been a change in the ward and the work in Portsmouth.
That about wraps up the week, so I love you all and will see you all later.
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read alma 7
Elder Shock going home - 10-07-09
Wow, there has been a lot happening this week.
First, conference was amazing and I learned so much from it. This conference seemed to get here faster that the last one.
Next, on Tuesday Elder Shock left for home and I am going to be a senior Companion, that in itself is a lot. I am ready to meet my new companion, but I am a little nervous about being the senior now.
That, and I still feel like I just got out here. But Elder Shock said the same thing so I still have a year to feel like I have been out longer. That about says it all.
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read alma 7
First, conference was amazing and I learned so much from it. This conference seemed to get here faster that the last one.
Next, on Tuesday Elder Shock left for home and I am going to be a senior Companion, that in itself is a lot. I am ready to meet my new companion, but I am a little nervous about being the senior now.
That, and I still feel like I just got out here. But Elder Shock said the same thing so I still have a year to feel like I have been out longer. That about says it all.
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read alma 7
NewFamilySearch released - 10-7-09
Hi William,
I am so glad to hear that things are going so well for you.
I don't recall how long Elder Shock has until he goes home, but I hope that you get as much experience from him before he leaves. Tell him that I appreciate the positive influence that he has been on you. I wish him the best of luck with the rest of his life. If he is ever in Provo have him look you up.
We have been cleaning up the house and getting ready for Sue, Sharon, Grandma, and Heidi. We are so excited to see them. Mary Ann and I are back on the diet and have already dropped a couple more pounds in in just the past couple of days.
I made 3 meatloaves for our diet, but I added to much Flax for thickening. They tasted great, but the texture was like oatmeal. It was so disgusting that I threw them away. Some experiments fail.
We have been taking the mustang out a little bit more. It is fun to see the looks from the other drivers on the road. We are going to the Temple tonight with ward temple night. We have the last of over 2000 names to have sealed to their parents. Yeah!!! Also we have finally been given access to the newFamilySearch program. Just to give you an idea of the improvements. The original Family search had a database of 20 million names and eventually got over 600 million names. The newFamilySearch is starting out with 1.8 billion names, and it is all available online so anything that you work on can be shared with your family anywhere in the world. Too Cool.
Well, that is pretty much all that is happening out here.
I hope that you have had a great week and we love you and pray for you always.
Love,Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson.
I am so glad to hear that things are going so well for you.
I don't recall how long Elder Shock has until he goes home, but I hope that you get as much experience from him before he leaves. Tell him that I appreciate the positive influence that he has been on you. I wish him the best of luck with the rest of his life. If he is ever in Provo have him look you up.
We have been cleaning up the house and getting ready for Sue, Sharon, Grandma, and Heidi. We are so excited to see them. Mary Ann and I are back on the diet and have already dropped a couple more pounds in in just the past couple of days.
I made 3 meatloaves for our diet, but I added to much Flax for thickening. They tasted great, but the texture was like oatmeal. It was so disgusting that I threw them away. Some experiments fail.
We have been taking the mustang out a little bit more. It is fun to see the looks from the other drivers on the road. We are going to the Temple tonight with ward temple night. We have the last of over 2000 names to have sealed to their parents. Yeah!!! Also we have finally been given access to the newFamilySearch program. Just to give you an idea of the improvements. The original Family search had a database of 20 million names and eventually got over 600 million names. The newFamilySearch is starting out with 1.8 billion names, and it is all available online so anything that you work on can be shared with your family anywhere in the world. Too Cool.
Well, that is pretty much all that is happening out here.
I hope that you have had a great week and we love you and pray for you always.
Love,Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson.
Benson going to Homecoming - 9-30-09
William,
How are things going for you?
Benson went to Homecoming this weekend. He actually took the 66' Mustang. It matched the color of his dates dress. I forgot that the lights didn't work very reliably, and he ended up driving home in the dark. Oops!.
We are excited to meet Melonie this weekend, she and Matt are getting pretty serious and they will be in Utah for conference.
Will you get to watch General Conference, or just listen to it? We are also excited to have Sue, Sharon, Grandma boy and Heidi up in 2 weeks for Tausha Baby shower.
Sorry this is so short, but I wanted to get it out to you right away.
(Thanks again for the video card)
Love you, and pray for you always.
Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson
How are things going for you?
Benson went to Homecoming this weekend. He actually took the 66' Mustang. It matched the color of his dates dress. I forgot that the lights didn't work very reliably, and he ended up driving home in the dark. Oops!.
We are excited to meet Melonie this weekend, she and Matt are getting pretty serious and they will be in Utah for conference.
Will you get to watch General Conference, or just listen to it? We are also excited to have Sue, Sharon, Grandma boy and Heidi up in 2 weeks for Tausha Baby shower.
Sorry this is so short, but I wanted to get it out to you right away.
(Thanks again for the video card)
Love you, and pray for you always.
Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson
Looking forward to Conference - 9-30-09
Well, this transfer is almost over, I can't believe it.
There is a chance that I will be senior companion soon and I am getting really nervous about that. Elder Shock told me that the Lord rarely calls you to a position that you are ready for, so I hope that I will do ok.
This week has been really cool. We have been teaching a lot, and I am really excited about the next few weeks. There will be a lot happening over te next transfer and I am hoping that I will be able to do everything that is required of me.
We have some investigators that will be attending General Conference this week and I am so happy to see them. One is Duane Tupper, he pretty much told us that he has been prepared for the gospel, and that he really wants to learn more about it. Wow, Conference is this week. I can't believe this is my second conference on my mission. I am really excited about it this time. I learned so much from the last conference that I can't wait to find out what I will learn this time.
I am hoping that I will be here until after December because there is nothing like spending the holidays with people you care about and I really don't want to get into a new area, and have to find new friends right before Christmas. But, whatever the Lord wants. "All things are done in the wisdom of he that knows all." 2 Ne 2:24 (I think)
Picture: My district (minus ME and Elder Blare, got cut off)
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Temple work done - 9-23-09
Hey William,
So glad to hear about another baptism. Way to go.
Finished the temple work for Uncle Bob, and Uncle Jack, Grandma Boy's brothers. Mary Ann and I stood in their parents in the sealing.
I am setting up my new system and needed to borrow a old PCI video card. Benson got an old card from Mom from your box of computer stuff. If you don't mind, I would like to keep it. I couldn't find a old pci card at any of the stores because they don't make them anymore.
Sue, Sharon, Grandma, Heidi, and Sarah are all coming up to Utah for Tausha's Baby shower. Benson got an internship at the same company that Br. Misbach works. He saw him at the interview, and they talked.
Anneke has had her learners permit for 6 months and is very excited to get her drivers license. She has passed the test, and was just waiting for the time to pass. She just told me the other day, that Mom told her that she can't get her license right now because Mom won't let her drive the new car anyway, so why pay for the additional insurance.
I saw your letter today and I am so glad to hear about the success that you are having. Great lessons, and great people, what more could you ask for.
We pray for you everyday and I am so thrilled to hear the difference in you. You are receiving blessing for the work that you do.
Take good care of yourself, and good luck with everything.
-Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson
So glad to hear about another baptism. Way to go.
Finished the temple work for Uncle Bob, and Uncle Jack, Grandma Boy's brothers. Mary Ann and I stood in their parents in the sealing.
I am setting up my new system and needed to borrow a old PCI video card. Benson got an old card from Mom from your box of computer stuff. If you don't mind, I would like to keep it. I couldn't find a old pci card at any of the stores because they don't make them anymore.
Sue, Sharon, Grandma, Heidi, and Sarah are all coming up to Utah for Tausha's Baby shower. Benson got an internship at the same company that Br. Misbach works. He saw him at the interview, and they talked.
Anneke has had her learners permit for 6 months and is very excited to get her drivers license. She has passed the test, and was just waiting for the time to pass. She just told me the other day, that Mom told her that she can't get her license right now because Mom won't let her drive the new car anyway, so why pay for the additional insurance.
I saw your letter today and I am so glad to hear about the success that you are having. Great lessons, and great people, what more could you ask for.
We pray for you everyday and I am so thrilled to hear the difference in you. You are receiving blessing for the work that you do.
Take good care of yourself, and good luck with everything.
-Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson
2nd chance at a former investigator - 9-23-09
Hello , All,
This week has been really cool. We were able to teach a former investigator, and we got him to commit to come to conference in two weeks. His name is Aaron Motes. This far in the week we have had some really good lessons with the members, and I am really happy with the members lesson series that we are doing now. We had seen so much success come from it. Mostly in the members working on there friends. That was really the big thing that happend this week we are teaching Dwain Tupper today so wish us luck.
This past few days I have been able to really connect with the spirit, and I have been able to feel it guide me in so much of my life and the concerns that I have. I am so grateful for the gift of the Holy Ghost and the influence that it has on me. I am greatful for the Atonement and the ability that I have to repent.
Love you all,
William
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read alma 7
This week has been really cool. We were able to teach a former investigator, and we got him to commit to come to conference in two weeks. His name is Aaron Motes. This far in the week we have had some really good lessons with the members, and I am really happy with the members lesson series that we are doing now. We had seen so much success come from it. Mostly in the members working on there friends. That was really the big thing that happend this week we are teaching Dwain Tupper today so wish us luck.
This past few days I have been able to really connect with the spirit, and I have been able to feel it guide me in so much of my life and the concerns that I have. I am so grateful for the gift of the Holy Ghost and the influence that it has on me. I am greatful for the Atonement and the ability that I have to repent.
Love you all,
William
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read alma 7
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Baptizing Charles Brooks 9-16-09
Hello,
Well, this week has been rather slow and long. I don't know why.
We had a lot of lessons and I had a lot of fun, but we had a lot of time to tract.
I did get the packages that you all sent, and I love each of them. I had a pretty cool birthday and was able to go over to some members house and celebrate a little and that was fun. I did get alot of birthday cake though and I think I am getting fat off of it. Oh well, I will work it off later.
On Saturday (my birthday) we had a baptism, his name was Charles Brook, he is really a YSA (Young Single Adult) but we taught him about half the lessons. It was really cool, it was his 21st birthday and my 20 birthday on the same day. So I thought that was cool.
That is the highlights of the week. I love you all ,and can't wait to see you again, Bye.
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read alma 7
Well, this week has been rather slow and long. I don't know why.
We had a lot of lessons and I had a lot of fun, but we had a lot of time to tract.
I did get the packages that you all sent, and I love each of them. I had a pretty cool birthday and was able to go over to some members house and celebrate a little and that was fun. I did get alot of birthday cake though and I think I am getting fat off of it. Oh well, I will work it off later.
On Saturday (my birthday) we had a baptism, his name was Charles Brook, he is really a YSA (Young Single Adult) but we taught him about half the lessons. It was really cool, it was his 21st birthday and my 20 birthday on the same day. So I thought that was cool.
That is the highlights of the week. I love you all ,and can't wait to see you again, Bye.
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read alma 7
Fixing the Lawnmower 9-16-09
Hey William,
How are you doing? I am so sorry that I forgot to send you a letter last week. Mary Ann got laid off last Tuesday, and my mind was elsewhere. So on to the rest of the week.
Mary Ann is enjoying her time home and may or may not get another job. We haven't decided yet.
The lawn mower died last week, so Benson decided to fix it and your Mom's lawn mower at the same time. After spending the afternoon on them, neither one worked so he brought ours home. He and I took a look at it and had fun tearing the carburator apart and then we put it back together and it ran perfectly. It now runs smoother then it has run in 5 years.
Benson has been having fun in his construction class. We went to the lot and saw the foundation and the driveway that he helped to pour. He said that they will start putting up the walls tomorrow. He is really learning some great skills, and I wish that I could take the class with him.
Mary Ann and I are still holding steading at our weight. We are in the "Weight Set" stage of our diet, where we lock in our weight so we don't gain any of it back. so holding steady for 3 weeks is a good thing.
We got a new Bishop this week. Br. Slaw is our new Bishop. His counselors are Br. Misbach and Br. Baker.
I hope everything is going great for you. Is Elder Shock getting trunky yet? Glad to hear about Charles Brook and glad that you had a nice birthday.
We love you and pray for you always.
Love Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson
How are you doing? I am so sorry that I forgot to send you a letter last week. Mary Ann got laid off last Tuesday, and my mind was elsewhere. So on to the rest of the week.
Mary Ann is enjoying her time home and may or may not get another job. We haven't decided yet.
The lawn mower died last week, so Benson decided to fix it and your Mom's lawn mower at the same time. After spending the afternoon on them, neither one worked so he brought ours home. He and I took a look at it and had fun tearing the carburator apart and then we put it back together and it ran perfectly. It now runs smoother then it has run in 5 years.
Benson has been having fun in his construction class. We went to the lot and saw the foundation and the driveway that he helped to pour. He said that they will start putting up the walls tomorrow. He is really learning some great skills, and I wish that I could take the class with him.
Mary Ann and I are still holding steading at our weight. We are in the "Weight Set" stage of our diet, where we lock in our weight so we don't gain any of it back. so holding steady for 3 weeks is a good thing.
We got a new Bishop this week. Br. Slaw is our new Bishop. His counselors are Br. Misbach and Br. Baker.
I hope everything is going great for you. Is Elder Shock getting trunky yet? Glad to hear about Charles Brook and glad that you had a nice birthday.
We love you and pray for you always.
Love Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson
Teaching by the spirit - 09-09-09
Hello All,
Well, what a week this has been. We had zone conference this Monday and it was so good, and inspiring. I was filled with the spirit after that meeting. I am amazed at how the work is going now. Yesterday was so cool, we were teaching and tracting and finding and everything by the spirit and I felt so good all day. Each lesson was really good, and Elder Shock and I had almost perfect unity. At zone conference we talked about having the spirit, as the senior member of our companionship, and I thnk we had that yesterday.
Wow! Steve is in the bishopric, and DUE in NOVMBER! Wow! that went by fast. Tell them I said "good luck".
Working with some of the members out here, I have seen how young kids act and I know that I will need A LOT of patence to have kids.
Good job on losing 40 lbs that is quite an accomplishment and I think it looks really good.
I love you all, and pray for you always, good luck and have fun.
Pictures: Brats were on sale, (Crab is cheap but I have not bought any yet), and Missionary Mall pants broke, zipper broke off (for mom). If you could print this and take it in to them and send out the new one it would be great, Thank you.
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
Well, what a week this has been. We had zone conference this Monday and it was so good, and inspiring. I was filled with the spirit after that meeting. I am amazed at how the work is going now. Yesterday was so cool, we were teaching and tracting and finding and everything by the spirit and I felt so good all day. Each lesson was really good, and Elder Shock and I had almost perfect unity. At zone conference we talked about having the spirit, as the senior member of our companionship, and I thnk we had that yesterday.Wow! Steve is in the bishopric, and DUE in NOVMBER! Wow! that went by fast. Tell them I said "good luck".
Working with some of the members out here, I have seen how young kids act and I know that I will need A LOT of patence to have kids.
Good job on losing 40 lbs that is quite an accomplishment and I think it looks really good.
I love you all, and pray for you always, good luck and have fun.Pictures: Brats were on sale, (Crab is cheap but I have not bought any yet), and Missionary Mall pants broke, zipper broke off (for mom). If you could print this and take it in to them and send out the new one it would be great, Thank you.
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
Just getting used to your schedule 09-02-09
William,
I was just getting used to your schedule and now you send a letter so early in the morning.
I am glad to hear that everything is going so well. I think that it is great that Elder Shock will be spending his last transfer with you. You two seem to be good for each other. Tell him "Thank you" from me.
Mary Ann is down 43 lbs and I am down 41lbs. I am now wearing an XL shirt instead of a 2XL. And I will need to be buying a new belt soon, as I am on my last buckle hole.
Anneke, Benson, Mary Ann and I all went to see, "UP" last night. It was a fun cartoon about a man who ties balloons to his house and floats down to South America.
It really had a good story, and great character development.
We were at Steve and Tausha's ward last week for Steve to be put in the Bishopric. Their baby is due in November and Steve is starting Law school. How does that sound for busy?
Well I have included some pictures for you this time. Benson out at Bridal Veil Falls, Garth in his new school clothes and Mary Ann and I minus about 40 lbs each.
I was just getting used to your schedule and now you send a letter so early in the morning.I am glad to hear that everything is going so well. I think that it is great that Elder Shock will be spending his last transfer with you. You two seem to be good for each other. Tell him "Thank you" from me.
Mary Ann is down 43 lbs and I am down 41lbs. I am now wearing an XL shirt instead of a 2XL. And I will need to be buying a new belt soon, as I am on my last buckle hole.
Anneke, Benson, Mary Ann and I all went to see, "UP" last night. It was a fun cartoon about a man who ties balloons to his house and floats down to South America.
It really had a good story, and great character development.We were at Steve and Tausha's ward last week for Steve to be put in the Bishopric. Their baby is due in November and Steve is starting Law school. How does that sound for busy?
Well I have included some pictures for you this time. Benson out at Bridal Veil Falls, Garth in his new school clothes and Mary Ann and I minus about 40 lbs each.
Love you and we pray for you always,Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson
Staying in Portsmouth 9-2-09
Hello All,
It is already September and I only have a few more days to be 19, I didn't think that my birthday would get here this fast. By the way mom a CD that I would like is "Joseph A Nashville tribute to the Prophet". It is a really good CD and I would really like to have a copy. I definitely suggest that you get a copy for yourself, is it such a good CD.
Anyway, this week has been really cool and we have been working hard and seeing changes in the members in Portsmouth. I love the new members work lessons. We teach 20 min lessons and the members can invite friends to the lesson and we do this for 4 weeks and if nothing happens then we move on to the next family.
The weeks are getting shorter and I can't seem to find any time to catch a glimps of life, everything is moving so fast. I know that I have enough time to do what I need to and then move on.
Elder Shock is leaving for home at the end of this transfer and so I will probably be staying here for the next 12 weeks and I am so happy to be here, and feel secure in that I don't have to pack everything up in 6 weeks. ( that is a pain).
Oh, I am sending pictures of my bike and how it looks. Now I really am pleased with it, however for some reason or another I have had more problems with my bike here in Portsmouth then anywhere thus far and it is kinda annoying.
But I am trying to keep my head high and look forward.
I love you all and wish you good luck - William
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
It is already September and I only have a few more days to be 19, I didn't think that my birthday would get here this fast. By the way mom a CD that I would like is "Joseph A Nashville tribute to the Prophet". It is a really good CD and I would really like to have a copy. I definitely suggest that you get a copy for yourself, is it such a good CD.
Anyway, this week has been really cool and we have been working hard and seeing changes in the members in Portsmouth. I love the new members work lessons. We teach 20 min lessons and the members can invite friends to the lesson and we do this for 4 weeks and if nothing happens then we move on to the next family.
The weeks are getting shorter and I can't seem to find any time to catch a glimps of life, everything is moving so fast. I know that I have enough time to do what I need to and then move on.
Elder Shock is leaving for home at the end of this transfer and so I will probably be staying here for the next 12 weeks and I am so happy to be here, and feel secure in that I don't have to pack everything up in 6 weeks. ( that is a pain).
Oh, I am sending pictures of my bike and how it looks. Now I really am pleased with it, however for some reason or another I have had more problems with my bike here in Portsmouth then anywhere thus far and it is kinda annoying.
But I am trying to keep my head high and look forward.
I love you all and wish you good luck - William
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
Birthday list 8-26-09
Well, this week is moving fast, and I don't have much time.
Birthday, some CD (hymns, Enya, Classical, things that bring the spirit) and any CD that you think, will bring the spirit is ok. If you think it might be ok, then it is.
Ties are ok, I don't need Tony's and anything you think will help.
Thank you for going to the temple, it is wonderful to hear that you are going.
Love William
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
Birthday, some CD (hymns, Enya, Classical, things that bring the spirit) and any CD that you think, will bring the spirit is ok. If you think it might be ok, then it is.
Ties are ok, I don't need Tony's and anything you think will help.
Thank you for going to the temple, it is wonderful to hear that you are going.
Love William
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
Oquirrh Mountain Temple Dedication 8-26-09
Hi Son,
I hope that you have had a great week.
So how is Mr. Red BMW doing after his surgery? Did you get a chance to visit him in the hospital? I hope that you are able to teach him, and that he accepts the gospel. He is the kind of man that could really be leadership quality for a ward in the area.
How are your other investigators coming along? Any families? How are Brandon and B? doing at church?
With your birthday coming up, Mary Ann is asking what you need/want for your birthday. I was thinking of another food box. Curry seasoning, more Tony's etc. Does that work for you? or would you rather have socks and a tie? Give me some ideas or that may be what you will be getting.
Our visit with Sharon last week was wonderful, and ended with attending the Oquirrh Mountain Temple Dedication. It was cool that Sharon was in town and able to attend.
Well Benson and Anneke are into school full swing. Benson is working to change his schedule around so he can get concurrent enrollment credit on somemore of his classes. He is hoping his internship is with a engineering company that his counselor told him about. And still no luck finding a job.
Mary Ann is down 42lbs and I have hit the 39lb mark. We are ending phase 2 of our diet this Friday, so we will start eating normal foods again. We just have to watch what we eat more carefully during phase 3. Aunt Sue is down 40lbs and she is looking really good too.
Mary Ann and I went to the Temple yesterday and got the Baptism, Confirmantion, and Initiatory work done for Uncle Bob, and Uncle Jack. Next week we are planning to get their endowments done and may be able to get their sealing to parents done the same day. I have been really having a great time getting the new family search program polished for our family tree. There is a lot of information in the database and it needs to be cleaned up and organized so that only the accurate information is displayed. As a Family History consultant I have had access for about 3 months now, but this week I was given access to the release version for final testing. It will be so great being able to share it with the members of the ward/stake.
Well, I guess that is it for this week, I am sure hoping that we get a chance to "IM". But I know not to expect it, anymore; and to just enjoy it when we get the chance. We love you and we pray for you and the people that your are serving everyday.
Take good care of yourself. Love you
Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson
--"It's never to late too live happily ever after."
I hope that you have had a great week.
So how is Mr. Red BMW doing after his surgery? Did you get a chance to visit him in the hospital? I hope that you are able to teach him, and that he accepts the gospel. He is the kind of man that could really be leadership quality for a ward in the area.
How are your other investigators coming along? Any families? How are Brandon and B? doing at church?
With your birthday coming up, Mary Ann is asking what you need/want for your birthday. I was thinking of another food box. Curry seasoning, more Tony's etc. Does that work for you? or would you rather have socks and a tie? Give me some ideas or that may be what you will be getting.
Our visit with Sharon last week was wonderful, and ended with attending the Oquirrh Mountain Temple Dedication. It was cool that Sharon was in town and able to attend.
Well Benson and Anneke are into school full swing. Benson is working to change his schedule around so he can get concurrent enrollment credit on somemore of his classes. He is hoping his internship is with a engineering company that his counselor told him about. And still no luck finding a job.
Mary Ann is down 42lbs and I have hit the 39lb mark. We are ending phase 2 of our diet this Friday, so we will start eating normal foods again. We just have to watch what we eat more carefully during phase 3. Aunt Sue is down 40lbs and she is looking really good too.
Mary Ann and I went to the Temple yesterday and got the Baptism, Confirmantion, and Initiatory work done for Uncle Bob, and Uncle Jack. Next week we are planning to get their endowments done and may be able to get their sealing to parents done the same day. I have been really having a great time getting the new family search program polished for our family tree. There is a lot of information in the database and it needs to be cleaned up and organized so that only the accurate information is displayed. As a Family History consultant I have had access for about 3 months now, but this week I was given access to the release version for final testing. It will be so great being able to share it with the members of the ward/stake.
Well, I guess that is it for this week, I am sure hoping that we get a chance to "IM". But I know not to expect it, anymore; and to just enjoy it when we get the chance. We love you and we pray for you and the people that your are serving everyday.
Take good care of yourself. Love you
Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson
--"It's never to late too live happily ever after."
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
First Training class - 08-19-09
I can't believe that another month is gone and I still feel like I am just starting my mission.
I will be coming up on my one year mark soon, and I might be a senior companion soon, and that is scary enough.
I gave my first training at our district meeting yesterday, and it was on "Does the Lord trust me?".
I think I needed the lesson, I still don't feel ready to be a miisionary, but every time I go out, my mind is lead to what to say and do I hope that I am trusted by the Lord.
New bike pictures next week!
Love Elder Boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
I will be coming up on my one year mark soon, and I might be a senior companion soon, and that is scary enough.
I gave my first training at our district meeting yesterday, and it was on "Does the Lord trust me?".
I think I needed the lesson, I still don't feel ready to be a miisionary, but every time I go out, my mind is lead to what to say and do I hope that I am trusted by the Lord.
New bike pictures next week!
Love Elder Boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
IM Chat with William - 08-19-09
William Boy IV: are you online
William Boy IV: Im on my mission
William Boy: I am
How are things going?
William Boy IV: great
William Boy: It has been so long since I got to chat with you.
Tell me all about it
How was Nicoles Baptism?
William Boy IV: I am working on upgrading my bike today (my first bike was to small) and we are teaching more lessons this week then the last one
I didn't get to do it was on a day that we couldn't make
William Boy: I am glad to hear about all the lessons that you are able to teach, but that is to bad about not being able to get to Nicoles baptism
but, you know that you were a part of her finding the church, and that is what matters
William Boy IV: that is how I feel
William Boy: I sent off your letter. Sharon is here this week and we are loving to spend time with her. She and Benson, went to Wingers on Monday. They filled up on the Appetizer and hardly ate any of their meal
William Boy IV: we might be having another baptism soon. His name is Jason, he just got married to a member and we have been teaching him for a little while. Now that he is out from his parents anti-mormon feelings, we will be able to get things moving.
William Boy: Good attitude!
I am so proud of the growth that I hear in your every word, son.
You are a completely different person. And I like was I am seeing in you.
Benson and Anneke are starting school tomorrow. Benson is excited, just because he is so bored sitting around the house
William Boy IV: Thank you, like you always told me experience is what you get after you need it, and I have seen that alot these last few weeks. Looking back on my first months out I wish that I new what I know now.
William Boy: Since I have you online, can you verify that you current address is:
617 Dunedin Rd. Apt A, Portsmouth, VA, 23701
William Boy IV: yes that is it
William Boy: Work has been going great, and Mary Ann is feeling more comfortable in her new position as a manager. We are both doing great on our diet, and I love cooking the food to help us succeed.
William Boy IV: I was able to cook again and I find that I can do it better that I thought.
William Boy: Cool, you have had plenty of chances to play with your cooking skills here at home, so I am not surprised that you are finding new ways to spread your wings while on in the mission field. Have you made lemon pepper chicken for Elder Shock yet? you should.
William Boy IV: Not yet, but I will soon.
William Boy: I forgot to mention in my letter. I have been asked to teach a cooking class for BYU. It is a 3 hour seminar on how to cook using the HCG protocol. (HCG is our diet)
William Boy IV: What is this about mom and a new car?
William Boy: Mom, bought a new Toyota Camry. It is white, and looks just like Mary Ann's car, (except that it is white)
She was having more car trouble with the van, and decided to trade it in on a new car.
Anneke told me that she only gets to drive it in the parking lot, or at night when there isn't very much traffic. But that will probably change once the newness wears off.
So any new investigators for us to pray for? Didn't you have a family that you were teaching?
Has anything new happened with the guy with the BMW?
What was his name?
William Boy IV: whos name
William Boy: Mr. BMW
William Boy: I put the picture of you in his BMW, as your new picture on the Blogsite.
William Boy IV: That was an investigator that I told oyu would have let me drive it around the block but it is against the rules
William Boy: I was thinking of putting your picture of you in the BMW, as your picture in with the ward missionary pictures has anyone from the Heatheridge ward been writing to you?
William Boy IV: I am ok with it I like the car
William: No, no one is writing me from the ward
williamboy3: So did you have a family that you were teaching?
William: Not yet, but he just went in for a blood clot in his lung and so we have to wait until after that
williamboy3: ok, well I hope that he does ok, and I hope that you are able to teach him
Are you going to visit him in the hospital?
A blessing may be just what he needs
William: We are waiting for him to call us and tell us his room number
williamboy3: good idea, I suppose you don't want to be too pushy. Just listen to what the spirit tells you.
William: I try
williamboy3: Benson went to the school today to make some changes to his schedule. He was there at 8am.That is how ready he is to get back to school.
William: How is the old ward going?
Any fun classes, for Benson?
williamboy3: I am teaching my genealogy class, and Mary Ann teaches the sunbeams.
It is weird to see Danny, Josh, and Stirling in Elders Quorum, but things are pretty much the same as always.
William: what about Benson and school?
williamboy3: Benson just went to school today to make some schedule changes.
His construction class wasn't showing up on his schedule, so he wanted to check on it.
The funny thing is that he got there at 8am this morning.
Well, I can believe that I am the one saying this, but I have to get going.
I have some people who want some of my time, and I am at work so I guess that I should help them.
William: Ok, I will try again later.
williamboy3: Great, I love to hear from you.
Take care of yourself, and keep up the good work.
We love you, and pray for you every night.
Bye
William Boy IV: Im on my mission
William Boy: I am
How are things going?
William Boy IV: great
William Boy: It has been so long since I got to chat with you.
Tell me all about it
How was Nicoles Baptism?
William Boy IV: I am working on upgrading my bike today (my first bike was to small) and we are teaching more lessons this week then the last one
I didn't get to do it was on a day that we couldn't make
William Boy: I am glad to hear about all the lessons that you are able to teach, but that is to bad about not being able to get to Nicoles baptism
but, you know that you were a part of her finding the church, and that is what matters
William Boy IV: that is how I feel
William Boy: I sent off your letter. Sharon is here this week and we are loving to spend time with her. She and Benson, went to Wingers on Monday. They filled up on the Appetizer and hardly ate any of their meal
William Boy IV: we might be having another baptism soon. His name is Jason, he just got married to a member and we have been teaching him for a little while. Now that he is out from his parents anti-mormon feelings, we will be able to get things moving.
William Boy: Good attitude!
I am so proud of the growth that I hear in your every word, son.
You are a completely different person. And I like was I am seeing in you.
Benson and Anneke are starting school tomorrow. Benson is excited, just because he is so bored sitting around the house
William Boy IV: Thank you, like you always told me experience is what you get after you need it, and I have seen that alot these last few weeks. Looking back on my first months out I wish that I new what I know now.
William Boy: Since I have you online, can you verify that you current address is:
617 Dunedin Rd. Apt A, Portsmouth, VA, 23701
William Boy IV: yes that is it
William Boy: Work has been going great, and Mary Ann is feeling more comfortable in her new position as a manager. We are both doing great on our diet, and I love cooking the food to help us succeed.
William Boy IV: I was able to cook again and I find that I can do it better that I thought.
William Boy: Cool, you have had plenty of chances to play with your cooking skills here at home, so I am not surprised that you are finding new ways to spread your wings while on in the mission field. Have you made lemon pepper chicken for Elder Shock yet? you should.
William Boy IV: Not yet, but I will soon.
William Boy: I forgot to mention in my letter. I have been asked to teach a cooking class for BYU. It is a 3 hour seminar on how to cook using the HCG protocol. (HCG is our diet)
William Boy IV: What is this about mom and a new car?
William Boy: Mom, bought a new Toyota Camry. It is white, and looks just like Mary Ann's car, (except that it is white)
She was having more car trouble with the van, and decided to trade it in on a new car.
Anneke told me that she only gets to drive it in the parking lot, or at night when there isn't very much traffic. But that will probably change once the newness wears off.
So any new investigators for us to pray for? Didn't you have a family that you were teaching?
Has anything new happened with the guy with the BMW?
What was his name?
William Boy IV: whos name
William Boy: Mr. BMW
William Boy: I put the picture of you in his BMW, as your new picture on the Blogsite.
William Boy IV: That was an investigator that I told oyu would have let me drive it around the block but it is against the rules
William Boy: I was thinking of putting your picture of you in the BMW, as your picture in with the ward missionary pictures has anyone from the Heatheridge ward been writing to you?
William Boy IV: I am ok with it I like the car
William: No, no one is writing me from the ward
williamboy3: So did you have a family that you were teaching?
William: Not yet, but he just went in for a blood clot in his lung and so we have to wait until after that
williamboy3: ok, well I hope that he does ok, and I hope that you are able to teach him
Are you going to visit him in the hospital?
A blessing may be just what he needs
William: We are waiting for him to call us and tell us his room number
williamboy3: good idea, I suppose you don't want to be too pushy. Just listen to what the spirit tells you.
William: I try
williamboy3: Benson went to the school today to make some changes to his schedule. He was there at 8am.That is how ready he is to get back to school.
William: How is the old ward going?
Any fun classes, for Benson?
williamboy3: I am teaching my genealogy class, and Mary Ann teaches the sunbeams.
It is weird to see Danny, Josh, and Stirling in Elders Quorum, but things are pretty much the same as always.
William: what about Benson and school?
williamboy3: Benson just went to school today to make some schedule changes.
His construction class wasn't showing up on his schedule, so he wanted to check on it.
The funny thing is that he got there at 8am this morning.
Well, I can believe that I am the one saying this, but I have to get going.
I have some people who want some of my time, and I am at work so I guess that I should help them.
William: Ok, I will try again later.
williamboy3: Great, I love to hear from you.
Take care of yourself, and keep up the good work.
We love you, and pray for you every night.
Bye
Sharon's Here - 08-19-09
Hi William,
Sharon is here for Education Week this entire week. She has already had a great time at several wonderful classes, and still has most of the week yet to go. Yesterday she went to See "Joseph and the amazing technicolor dreamcoat" with Steve and Tausha. She loved it.
Garth and Quintin got home safely, Benson drove them to Cedar City all by himself, twice. Anneke was in the car, but he was in charge. It was fun having him up, and I know that Mary Ann enjoyed seeing him again.
Benson and Anneke are getting ready for school, which starts tomorrow. We bought Benson some new clothes, and new shoes. He has all of his classes taken care of and is really excited about his construction class. He will actually get to help build a real house.
Mary Ann is down 40 lbs and I am down 37lbs. We are really enjoying our diet, and I am having a great time creating new recipes. Yesterday, I made "stuffed onions". They are meatloaf in a onion shell, and they are delicious but need a little more work before I am done with the recipe.
Benson is working in at a carnival. The parents of a friend of ours owns a carnival and needed some help, so Benson got a job working there setting up the rides, and working in the caramel apple booth. He also has an interview with an insurance company, working on the phones. We will see how that works out.
Your little sister is now 16 years old. She says that she can get her drivers license next month, We'll see if Mom let's her drive the new car or not. Anneke asked for makeup for her birthday, and Mary Ann helped her to know how to put it on so that it looks nice.
We were thrilled to hear about your 2 baptisms last week, and about Nicole this week. Did you get to go to her baptism? How was it? We sure are proud of you, and all the hard work you are putting into bringing people into the church. Keep up the great work.
------- A Note from Benson
This is Benson. Sorry I don't write that much. WWednesdays just seen to sneak up on me and then they are over before I can do anything about it. I got a weekend job working in the circus this week and a telebusiness job where I call people and they hang up on me. It isn't the best, but it's a job. and i need the money.
Since Mary Ann and Dad are so happy about their weight loss, I just want you to know that it is affecting me as while. I am down 12 lbs. But, the funny thing is that I still eat the junk food I originally did. I think it is something to do with your mind and just thinking about it makes it happen at least for guys.
-------
Well that is about it for this week. We love you and pray for you always.
Love Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson
-- "It's never to late too live happily ever after."
Sharon is here for Education Week this entire week. She has already had a great time at several wonderful classes, and still has most of the week yet to go. Yesterday she went to See "Joseph and the amazing technicolor dreamcoat" with Steve and Tausha. She loved it.
Garth and Quintin got home safely, Benson drove them to Cedar City all by himself, twice. Anneke was in the car, but he was in charge. It was fun having him up, and I know that Mary Ann enjoyed seeing him again.
Benson and Anneke are getting ready for school, which starts tomorrow. We bought Benson some new clothes, and new shoes. He has all of his classes taken care of and is really excited about his construction class. He will actually get to help build a real house.
Mary Ann is down 40 lbs and I am down 37lbs. We are really enjoying our diet, and I am having a great time creating new recipes. Yesterday, I made "stuffed onions". They are meatloaf in a onion shell, and they are delicious but need a little more work before I am done with the recipe.
Benson is working in at a carnival. The parents of a friend of ours owns a carnival and needed some help, so Benson got a job working there setting up the rides, and working in the caramel apple booth. He also has an interview with an insurance company, working on the phones. We will see how that works out.
Your little sister is now 16 years old. She says that she can get her drivers license next month, We'll see if Mom let's her drive the new car or not. Anneke asked for makeup for her birthday, and Mary Ann helped her to know how to put it on so that it looks nice.
We were thrilled to hear about your 2 baptisms last week, and about Nicole this week. Did you get to go to her baptism? How was it? We sure are proud of you, and all the hard work you are putting into bringing people into the church. Keep up the great work.
------- A Note from Benson
This is Benson. Sorry I don't write that much. WWednesdays just seen to sneak up on me and then they are over before I can do anything about it. I got a weekend job working in the circus this week and a telebusiness job where I call people and they hang up on me. It isn't the best, but it's a job. and i need the money.
Since Mary Ann and Dad are so happy about their weight loss, I just want you to know that it is affecting me as while. I am down 12 lbs. But, the funny thing is that I still eat the junk food I originally did. I think it is something to do with your mind and just thinking about it makes it happen at least for guys.
-------
Well that is about it for this week. We love you and pray for you always.
Love Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson
-- "It's never to late too live happily ever after."
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
The Emperor's new clothes - 08-12-09
William,
So glad to hear about your baptisms, and the success that you are having.
Andrew Earl's parents spoke at church on Sunday. They said that he is doing great and has already been gone 14 months. They can't believe the growth that they have seen in him.
Garth is visiting us this week. We took him out shopping for school clothes this week. It was quite an experience. Remember when I took you and Benson out to get some school clothes at the start of your senior year? Well, Garth got all the same stories and lectures about a new start, growing up, and taking on a more mature look.
At first he wanted to just get more black t-shirts with death, and drugs on them. But he eventually figured out that there were other options available to him.
We talked about different styles, Hawaiian, Western, casual, etc. He eventually settled into a look like Benson chose. A button down shirt over a solid t-shirt.
Mary Ann is thrilled with how nice it looks on him, and he seemed to stand a little taller as he realized how nice it looked and how it made him feel inside.
Mary Ann and I are still doing great on our diet. I made 4 meatloaves and 22 servings of soup on Sunday. So that is about 38 meals for us to chose from. Mary Ann is down 36 lbs and I have hit my halfway point at 32 lbs. I have lost 4 inches off of my belly, and I will be needing a new belt soon.
I am feeling great and Mary Ann is really looking good.
Love you always, Day, Mary ann and Benson
So glad to hear about your baptisms, and the success that you are having.
Andrew Earl's parents spoke at church on Sunday. They said that he is doing great and has already been gone 14 months. They can't believe the growth that they have seen in him.
Garth is visiting us this week. We took him out shopping for school clothes this week. It was quite an experience. Remember when I took you and Benson out to get some school clothes at the start of your senior year? Well, Garth got all the same stories and lectures about a new start, growing up, and taking on a more mature look.At first he wanted to just get more black t-shirts with death, and drugs on them. But he eventually figured out that there were other options available to him.
We talked about different styles, Hawaiian, Western, casual, etc. He eventually settled into a look like Benson chose. A button down shirt over a solid t-shirt.
Mary Ann is thrilled with how nice it looks on him, and he seemed to stand a little taller as he realized how nice it looked and how it made him feel inside.
Mary Ann and I are still doing great on our diet. I made 4 meatloaves and 22 servings of soup on Sunday. So that is about 38 meals for us to chose from. Mary Ann is down 36 lbs and I have hit my halfway point at 32 lbs. I have lost 4 inches off of my belly, and I will be needing a new belt soon.
I am feeling great and Mary Ann is really looking good.
Love you always, Day, Mary ann and Benson
Not Playing XBox Football - 08-09-09
Hello Everyone, 
Well this week has been amazing. We had two baptisms and and the new members are getting along great with the ward.
Brandon is now interacting with the ward members so much better that before and he seems so much happier then he use to be. Brent has always gotten along with the ward. He invited us over to the after baptism party at his house. Some of the members wanted to play Xbox football and they couldn't because we were there. So we had a laugh and a good time with them anyway.
Other than that, we have found at least one new person to teach. Her name is Latisha and she just moved into Portsmouth. We tracted into her and she wants to go to the scripture study class on Thursday and wants us to call and remind her about it so we are hoping that it goes farther. The rest of this week is suppose to storm, and storms out here are not like the ones in utah, there they are cool, here they could kill you. So we might be inside a little.
I love you all and hope that all is well
Elder Boy
Well this week has been amazing. We had two baptisms and and the new members are getting along great with the ward.
Brandon is now interacting with the ward members so much better that before and he seems so much happier then he use to be. Brent has always gotten along with the ward. He invited us over to the after baptism party at his house. Some of the members wanted to play Xbox football and they couldn't because we were there. So we had a laugh and a good time with them anyway.
Other than that, we have found at least one new person to teach. Her name is Latisha and she just moved into Portsmouth. We tracted into her and she wants to go to the scripture study class on Thursday and wants us to call and remind her about it so we are hoping that it goes farther. The rest of this week is suppose to storm, and storms out here are not like the ones in utah, there they are cool, here they could kill you. So we might be inside a little.
I love you all and hope that all is well
Elder Boy
Friday, August 7, 2009
Preston for the Weekend - 08-05-09
William,
I am so glad to hear about Brent, Brandon, and Nicole, we have been praying for them. I think that it is cool that you got to feel what it is like to be the senior companion. I would bet that it isn't as easy as it looks.
We went to Preston, Idaho this weekend to visit a carnival that one of Mary Ann's team works at. The carnival was your typical small town rides, but we did genealogy on the way up, and on the way back. I got about 300 new names off of headstones. We even went to the Wellsville cemetery to get some headstone shots, and found out that Regina and Mary Ann are cousins. So we may see you at the next Maughan Family reunion.
Anneke went with Mom to Disneyland last week. I don't know why she didn't invite Benson. I think that he would have really enjoyed getting out of the house. I hope Anneke had a good time.
Sharon is coming up for Education week at BYU, and we are so excited to see her for an entire week. We had a great time visiting with her while we were in Arizona, but there never seems to be enough time.
Also, Garth and his friend are coming up this week. Mary Ann is excited to see him one more time before school starts.
Mary Ann and I are back on the diet again, and I am down 8 pounds in 10 days, and Mary Ann is down 6 pounds. We are excited to get back to the shape of real human beings and not the shape of beachballs. haha.
Benson is looking forward to school starting up, because he is just so bored. He is doing all sorts of odd jobs around the house, just to keep busy. I saw the picture of your fast Sunday meal. Good job! I see all of the basic food groups are covered. Hamburger helper, Mash potatoes and gravy, green beans, and Tony's. You can't go wrong with Tony's.
I have been making meals ahead of time and freezing them, to help stay on our diet. I made stuffed cabbage, Meatloaf, Cabbage wraps, and even invented some new recipes for taco soup, and green onion soup. The Taco soup is delicious, the green onion soup needs some more work.
Well, that's about it for this week. I love you and we pray for you everyday. talk to you soon
Love Dad, Mary ann, and Benson
I am so glad to hear about Brent, Brandon, and Nicole, we have been praying for them. I think that it is cool that you got to feel what it is like to be the senior companion. I would bet that it isn't as easy as it looks.
We went to Preston, Idaho this weekend to visit a carnival that one of Mary Ann's team works at. The carnival was your typical small town rides, but we did genealogy on the way up, and on the way back. I got about 300 new names off of headstones. We even went to the Wellsville cemetery to get some headstone shots, and found out that Regina and Mary Ann are cousins. So we may see you at the next Maughan Family reunion.
Anneke went with Mom to Disneyland last week. I don't know why she didn't invite Benson. I think that he would have really enjoyed getting out of the house. I hope Anneke had a good time.
Sharon is coming up for Education week at BYU, and we are so excited to see her for an entire week. We had a great time visiting with her while we were in Arizona, but there never seems to be enough time.
Also, Garth and his friend are coming up this week. Mary Ann is excited to see him one more time before school starts.
Mary Ann and I are back on the diet again, and I am down 8 pounds in 10 days, and Mary Ann is down 6 pounds. We are excited to get back to the shape of real human beings and not the shape of beachballs. haha.
Benson is looking forward to school starting up, because he is just so bored. He is doing all sorts of odd jobs around the house, just to keep busy. I saw the picture of your fast Sunday meal. Good job! I see all of the basic food groups are covered. Hamburger helper, Mash potatoes and gravy, green beans, and Tony's. You can't go wrong with Tony's.
I have been making meals ahead of time and freezing them, to help stay on our diet. I made stuffed cabbage, Meatloaf, Cabbage wraps, and even invented some new recipes for taco soup, and green onion soup. The Taco soup is delicious, the green onion soup needs some more work.
Well, that's about it for this week. I love you and we pray for you everyday. talk to you soon
Love Dad, Mary ann, and Benson
2 Baptisms and one on the way - 08-05-09
Hello,
I can't believe that it is already August, it seems like such a short time ago summer started and now it is almost over. Although I wont miss the humidity, the summer has been pretty nice.
We have baptisms this week, Brent Johnson and Brandon McCollum are getting baptized and I am really excited for them. They have made so much progress these past few weeks and it all comes down to this weekend.
I found out that Nicole Foust is getting baptized on the 13th and we are going to try to have someone go down there and see it (we get to go to). We had zone conference this past weekend and it was really good. I learned alot about how to teach and how to help the members here.
One of the members here (Robert Husted) got his call to Las Vegas, NV. which is really funny because the missionary that just left this area, Elder keller, lives in Vegas and is home now so they might get a little reunion from one mission to another.
Yesterday, I got to be senior companion for a day. Going on exchanges with my district leaders greeny, and that was really cool. I got the chance to be the leader and be the old companion for a change, and I don't think I did to bad. I was really nervous, but I know that it was a test that will help me grow a lot. I know that the time will come that I will be the senior comp. and so I might as well get as ready as I can.
Love Elder Boy
P.S. On Fast Sunday our dinner appointment cancelled and so we ate at home, I cooked the food.
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
I can't believe that it is already August, it seems like such a short time ago summer started and now it is almost over. Although I wont miss the humidity, the summer has been pretty nice.
We have baptisms this week, Brent Johnson and Brandon McCollum are getting baptized and I am really excited for them. They have made so much progress these past few weeks and it all comes down to this weekend.
I found out that Nicole Foust is getting baptized on the 13th and we are going to try to have someone go down there and see it (we get to go to). We had zone conference this past weekend and it was really good. I learned alot about how to teach and how to help the members here.
One of the members here (Robert Husted) got his call to Las Vegas, NV. which is really funny because the missionary that just left this area, Elder keller, lives in Vegas and is home now so they might get a little reunion from one mission to another.
Yesterday, I got to be senior companion for a day. Going on exchanges with my district leaders greeny, and that was really cool. I got the chance to be the leader and be the old companion for a change, and I don't think I did to bad. I was really nervous, but I know that it was a test that will help me grow a lot. I know that the time will come that I will be the senior comp. and so I might as well get as ready as I can.
Love Elder Boy
P.S. On Fast Sunday our dinner appointment cancelled and so we ate at home, I cooked the food.
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
Wendelboe Family Reunion - 7-29-09
Hi Son,
I am hoping to talk with you on IM, but I don't want to miss you like I did last week.
We went down to Las Vegas for the Wendelboe Family Reunion. We had a great time getting to know all the relatives. Of course I was in genealogy heaven with new names and relations to record. Several people brought birth, death, and marriage certificates. and photo of old dead people. I took pictures with the camera but with limited success. Then I met Leslie Waite (a cousin) and found out that she brought a scanner and her laptop. I spend a couple hours scanning in everything in sight.
Wes, Garth, and Trish were up here last week, so Mary Ann got to spend a lot of time with them. Sharon is coming up next month and will be here for an entire week. We are excited to spend time with here. I don't think that I told you but the computer that I bought for here, never got used. I just added some memory to her machine and it runs fast as lightning. So I am going to move into the machine I got for her as my new machine.
Things have been going great at work. I am getting a lot done and the system is running smoothly. Congratulations on your baptism. I am glad to hear that you are having so much success. You have really taken your task to heart and will receive the blessings that the Lord has instore for you because of your faithfulness.
I hope that you are still reading "Jesus, the Christ" and I hope that you are learning alot from it.
We love you and we pray for you always.
Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson
P.S. I hope I get to IM with you later.
I am hoping to talk with you on IM, but I don't want to miss you like I did last week.
We went down to Las Vegas for the Wendelboe Family Reunion. We had a great time getting to know all the relatives. Of course I was in genealogy heaven with new names and relations to record. Several people brought birth, death, and marriage certificates. and photo of old dead people. I took pictures with the camera but with limited success. Then I met Leslie Waite (a cousin) and found out that she brought a scanner and her laptop. I spend a couple hours scanning in everything in sight.
Wes, Garth, and Trish were up here last week, so Mary Ann got to spend a lot of time with them. Sharon is coming up next month and will be here for an entire week. We are excited to spend time with here. I don't think that I told you but the computer that I bought for here, never got used. I just added some memory to her machine and it runs fast as lightning. So I am going to move into the machine I got for her as my new machine.
Things have been going great at work. I am getting a lot done and the system is running smoothly. Congratulations on your baptism. I am glad to hear that you are having so much success. You have really taken your task to heart and will receive the blessings that the Lord has instore for you because of your faithfulness.
I hope that you are still reading "Jesus, the Christ" and I hope that you are learning alot from it.
We love you and we pray for you always.
Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson
P.S. I hope I get to IM with you later.
Driving a BMW (Not!) - 7-29-09
Hello,
Well this week was fast, we set Brent for baptism and Brandon will be baptized on the 7 of Aug. Jason (a another investigator) got married to Ceria (a member) and so we will be working with him in about a week again.
I finally took some pictures of my new S&K suits.
Well this week was fast, we set Brent for baptism and Brandon will be baptized on the 7 of Aug. Jason (a another investigator) got married to Ceria (a member) and so we will be working with him in about a week again.
I finally took some pictures of my new S&K suits.
This week we met a guy that invited us over to his house, we went over the next day and helped him do some yard work, then he wanted to take us for a ride in his BMW, but it only has two seats and we can't separate. We told him (sadly I really wanted to ride in it), so he gave me the keys and said to take it around the block (after I pulled my jaw off the ground we told him we are not allowed to drive anything other then mission vehicles, so in the name of obedience I denied driving a BMW coop (two seat).
Later we when out and I found the really nice tie with salt water fish on it so I got it and then realized I can’t wear it out here, so I will save it until I get home.I also tried to make a stuffed tomato and it was ok, it was a try and I probably won’t make one again, but it was fun.
That was about it for the week and so I will talk to you all later.
Love Elder boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Understanding the Atonement - 7-22-09
Well, this week has been really fast, exciting, and frustrating, all at the same time.
Brandon is getting baptized this week, and Brent is working on getting baptized, in the next month (August), and that is all a work in progress.
We did have an interesting talk with a guy last week or so. He told us that we don't understand the atonement, and that we don't understand what grace is, and he told us that the ten commandments are just good ideas, and that we are all going to heaven by grace alone, and we don't need any works, and then got mad when we told him that he was wrong. He also told us that the gospel is not as simple as faith, getting baptized by proper authority, receiving the Holy Ghost and enduring to the end. He said it needed to be more complex than that, and so we bore out testimony and left. It was a long conversation and we didn't get anywhere but wet. It rained a lot that day.
Love to everyone,
Elder Boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
1 Elder Shock is planning for the next day
2 Elder Shock and his personality 
IM - Staying in Portsmouth - 7-15-09
William Boy IV: hello
William Boy IV: I’m on my mission Sent at 8:33 AM on Wednesday
William Boy: hello
William Boy IV: ya
William Boy: How are things this week
William Boy IV: Well, I found out that I get to stay in Portsmouth
William Boy: ok, that's good. We had a great time in Arizona, visiting with Grandma, and Sue and Sharon. We saw "Wicked" and it was better then the first time.
William Boy IV: Well, this month we have Brandon McCollum getting baptized and we are really excited about that.
William Boy: That is too cool. Congratulations. In Matt's homecoming talk he said that he baptized 155 people. Then he said that every time a missionary in their mission baptizes someone they all get some credit, because it is a group effort.
William Boy IV: Wow, I can't believe getting that many, I am trying to get up to three. That is so cool.
William Boy: His bishop went to the same mission 20 years ago, and talked about how hard it was to even talk to people.
William Boy IV: Cool, I can imagine. Speaking English is hard enough to talk to people.
William Boy: My boss got opening day tickets for Harry Potter, so we are going to see it this afternoon.
William Boy IV: Sweet, tell me how it is. I saw a preview at a member’s house and flipped. I can't wait to see it.
Sent at 8:51 AM on Wednesday
williamboy3: Trish and Garth are up this weekend for Garrets farewell. So we are going to take everyone to see it tomorrow.
William: Cool. Tell every one "Hi" for me. It is hard to believe that I have been out for almost 8 months and it doesn't seem like I have been out here that long.
williamboy3: In some ways it seems longer. In other ways it seems so short.
William: Really, I feel like some days are longer that others, but I still can't believe how fast time is going.
williamboy3: How is "Jesus the Christ" coming along?
William: I am about 200 pages in, and it is really good. I am learning so much from it. I guess I knew it but it is all making sense and explaining more of what he did in his life and teaching.
williamboy3: Cool, I can't think of anything better for you to do with your time. Mary Ann and I are still doing good on our diets. Although, while down in Az. they had brat's and kringle and all sorts of temptations, and I enjoy them... too much! My Genealogy class is going great, I really love teaching it, and we have people at all levels doing family history.
William: That is great. I have to go, my time has run out, and I need to log off. It was great chatting with you, and I hope that we can do it next week, bye.
williamboy3: Ok, I love you, and look forward to talking to you again next week. Take care of yourself.
William Boy IV: I’m on my mission Sent at 8:33 AM on Wednesday
William Boy: hello
William Boy IV: ya
William Boy: How are things this week
William Boy IV: Well, I found out that I get to stay in Portsmouth
William Boy: ok, that's good. We had a great time in Arizona, visiting with Grandma, and Sue and Sharon. We saw "Wicked" and it was better then the first time.
William Boy IV: Well, this month we have Brandon McCollum getting baptized and we are really excited about that.
William Boy: That is too cool. Congratulations. In Matt's homecoming talk he said that he baptized 155 people. Then he said that every time a missionary in their mission baptizes someone they all get some credit, because it is a group effort.
William Boy IV: Wow, I can't believe getting that many, I am trying to get up to three. That is so cool.
William Boy: His bishop went to the same mission 20 years ago, and talked about how hard it was to even talk to people.
William Boy IV: Cool, I can imagine. Speaking English is hard enough to talk to people.
William Boy: My boss got opening day tickets for Harry Potter, so we are going to see it this afternoon.
William Boy IV: Sweet, tell me how it is. I saw a preview at a member’s house and flipped. I can't wait to see it.
Sent at 8:51 AM on Wednesday
williamboy3: Trish and Garth are up this weekend for Garrets farewell. So we are going to take everyone to see it tomorrow.
William: Cool. Tell every one "Hi" for me. It is hard to believe that I have been out for almost 8 months and it doesn't seem like I have been out here that long.
williamboy3: In some ways it seems longer. In other ways it seems so short.
William: Really, I feel like some days are longer that others, but I still can't believe how fast time is going.
williamboy3: How is "Jesus the Christ" coming along?
William: I am about 200 pages in, and it is really good. I am learning so much from it. I guess I knew it but it is all making sense and explaining more of what he did in his life and teaching.
williamboy3: Cool, I can't think of anything better for you to do with your time. Mary Ann and I are still doing good on our diets. Although, while down in Az. they had brat's and kringle and all sorts of temptations, and I enjoy them... too much! My Genealogy class is going great, I really love teaching it, and we have people at all levels doing family history.
William: That is great. I have to go, my time has run out, and I need to log off. It was great chatting with you, and I hope that we can do it next week, bye.
williamboy3: Ok, I love you, and look forward to talking to you again next week. Take care of yourself.
Learning to Cook - 7-15-09
Well this week has gone by way to fast, and now the next transfer is here. Wow, I am staying in Portsmouth, VA.
I am really excited to stay, we have a baptism this month. Brandon McCollum is being baptized on the 24th we hope. (The Bishopric is gone that weekend and so we might be able to have a stake member be there).
I have learnd the value of cooking, and I don't mean with the microwave. Also, I am learning how to cook some really cool dinners, and will be writing down the recipe to make at home for every one.
We will also be having Brent Johnson getting baptized in the upcoming transfer, so we are really excited about that to.
This Sunday I hit my 8 month mark, wow time is flying pass way to fast.
I love you all and will see you all later bye
Elder Boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
I am really excited to stay, we have a baptism this month. Brandon McCollum is being baptized on the 24th we hope. (The Bishopric is gone that weekend and so we might be able to have a stake member be there).
I have learnd the value of cooking, and I don't mean with the microwave. Also, I am learning how to cook some really cool dinners, and will be writing down the recipe to make at home for every one.
We will also be having Brent Johnson getting baptized in the upcoming transfer, so we are really excited about that to.
This Sunday I hit my 8 month mark, wow time is flying pass way to fast.
I love you all and will see you all later bye
Elder Boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Playing in the Rain - 07-08-09
Well this week has gone by really fast and next week is transfers. I can't believe how time is moving and what little time I have left here in Virginia. I didn't do much for the 4th, fireworks are illegal in VA and we couldn't go to the pier to watch the display, but I did eat brats and ice cream that night. On Friday it rained a lot and we got to go out in it and got so wet that my shoes just got dry enough to wear today,
Nicole is doing very well, she is not set for baptism yet, but is very close last I heard, also yes, I did get the package with Jesus the Christ in it.
President Milburn has challenged the mission to read the Book of Mormon by November and focus on scriptures references that we can use to teach. I am really getting into the Book of Mormon this time around and love all of the new things that I have read and learn. Finding new scriptures and new meanings to them. I have also started reading the D&C and really love reading that. I wish I would have read it long before my mission.
Pictures will be in the next email this is a lot longer than I expected it to be.
Elder Boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
Elder Boy and Elder Shock
,
, William adding to his Journal
Heading to Az 07-08-09
Hi William,
We are loading up the car, and will be heading to Az. within a couple of hours, but I didn't want to risk missing telling you what has been going on with us.
I have loved the couple of times that we have been able to chat online, but I guess that is just a hit and miss situation. So I better get back into the habit of writing to you.
We we went out to Russ' for the 4th of July and had Brat's and lit off some fireworks. What did you do for the 4th?
We are excited to visit everyone in Arizona, and also excited to go and see "Wicked". Mary Ann and Anneke went shopping and found Anneke a beautiful dress to wear for the evening. It looks very nice on her and is very slimming also. My little girl is growing up! (tear...)
So at Zone Conference last week did you hear about Nicole. We have been praying for her and hope that she did follow thru with her baptism date. And what was the name of the new family that you are teaching?
Well, I am not sure if we will get a chance to Chat today, but at least I got a chance to catch you up on what is going on with us.
I love you and pray for you always.
Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson
We are loading up the car, and will be heading to Az. within a couple of hours, but I didn't want to risk missing telling you what has been going on with us.
I have loved the couple of times that we have been able to chat online, but I guess that is just a hit and miss situation. So I better get back into the habit of writing to you.
We we went out to Russ' for the 4th of July and had Brat's and lit off some fireworks. What did you do for the 4th?
We are excited to visit everyone in Arizona, and also excited to go and see "Wicked". Mary Ann and Anneke went shopping and found Anneke a beautiful dress to wear for the evening. It looks very nice on her and is very slimming also. My little girl is growing up! (tear...)
So at Zone Conference last week did you hear about Nicole. We have been praying for her and hope that she did follow thru with her baptism date. And what was the name of the new family that you are teaching?
Well, I am not sure if we will get a chance to Chat today, but at least I got a chance to catch you up on what is going on with us.
I love you and pray for you always.
Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Zone Conference 7-1-09
Well another week has gone by and it is already July. This has been an incredible week we had zone conference and stake conference all weekend then district meetings on Tuesday. Zone conference was really cool, we were challenged to read the Book of Mormon and find scriptures that we can memorize. So from the beginning to the end we are looking for scriptures that apply to faith, and repentance, and missionary work, and things like that over the next few months.
We are reading the Book of Mormon as a mission it is really cool. I was also able to buy a new study journal and get it setup for my study of the Book of Mormon, and many other things that I will be putting in it.
All in all, this week has gone by really fast and I can't belive how much time is already gone.
Elder Boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
We are reading the Book of Mormon as a mission it is really cool. I was also able to buy a new study journal and get it setup for my study of the Book of Mormon, and many other things that I will be putting in it.
All in all, this week has gone by really fast and I can't belive how much time is already gone.
Elder Boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
Thursday, June 25, 2009
IM Session with William 6-24-09
williamboy3: helloyou keep getting earlier each week
William: really
williamboy3: yes, but enough about that. How are you doing?
William: really good
williamboy3: Benson is at camp this week, they are rafting down the green river.
William: this past week has been way to fast and I realized on sunday that I hit my 7 month mark on friday last week.
williamboy3: Our visit with Robin last week was funWOW, has it really been 7 monthsit feels like you have just barely leftDid you hear that Matt Gaunt (from school) is leaving for the MTC next week ...
William: I know
williamboy3: He will be serving in the Richmond, VA missionDo you remember him?
William: I cant belive in that time I could train him that would be really cool
williamboy3: That would be coolSo, did you hear anything about Nicole last week?just wondering how things are looking for her
William: I still don't know but I should find out more by next week in is zone confrince this week
williamboy3: ok, I would like to know how things go with her, since she is the first name that I remember as one of your investigators
William: ok I will let you know
williamboy3: thanks
William: I have sent pics this week when you get the email
williamboy3: I got to drive a '67 Mustang last week, it was completely restored and fastWhat is your current address right now?I need to update the blog address, and wasn't clear as to what it was
William: I send it in a email about 3 weeks ago and don't remember it
williamboy3: yeah, but you didn't list the city or zip code, just the street address
William: ok it is portsmouth VA, and...I don't know the zip code but I know you can look it up on the internet with the address you have
williamboy3: I just updated your blogsite on Monday, and noticed that I didn't have your complete addressOK, I will look it upHow are things going with Elder Shockdo you have any pictures to update on the blogsiteMatt comes home tomorrowRobin said that Sue is fit to be tiedbut she has lost 35 lbs, and she is happy about thatMary Ann is down 28 lbs and I am holding at 25 lbs
William: cool
williamboy3: Matt Baker just left, or just got back from his mission, I forget which one.and someone else just got home also, but I forget whoI got a new saute pan for Fathers Day
William: cool
williamboy3: and I bought Mary Ann about 5 new skirts that look really nice on herYou already sent that picture
William: oppsstill
williamboy3: anything of you with members, or your companion?
William: I am sending comps in one sec but I am out of time so I will hurry and send it but I have to go thank you for chating this have been fun
williamboy3: We are going to see "Wicked" again, while we are down in Arizona.I look forward to chatting with you , it is so much more fun then writing emailsLove you and take care of yourself
William: that it isby
williamboy3: I will be into work earlier next week, so that we have more time
William: read our search for happiness in the mission lybrary
williamboy3: great book
William: ok I love you by
williamboy3: bye
William: then jesus the christ next
williamboy3: serious stufftalmage is a tough one to read
William: but it is amazing
williamboy3: that it is
William: GTG see you later
williamboy3: I also recommend, the miracle of forgiveness by David O. McKay
William: really
williamboy3: yes, but enough about that. How are you doing?
William: really good
williamboy3: Benson is at camp this week, they are rafting down the green river.
William: this past week has been way to fast and I realized on sunday that I hit my 7 month mark on friday last week.
williamboy3: Our visit with Robin last week was funWOW, has it really been 7 monthsit feels like you have just barely leftDid you hear that Matt Gaunt (from school) is leaving for the MTC next week ...
William: I know
williamboy3: He will be serving in the Richmond, VA missionDo you remember him?
William: I cant belive in that time I could train him that would be really cool
williamboy3: That would be coolSo, did you hear anything about Nicole last week?just wondering how things are looking for her
William: I still don't know but I should find out more by next week in is zone confrince this week
williamboy3: ok, I would like to know how things go with her, since she is the first name that I remember as one of your investigators
William: ok I will let you know
williamboy3: thanks
William: I have sent pics this week when you get the email
williamboy3: I got to drive a '67 Mustang last week, it was completely restored and fastWhat is your current address right now?I need to update the blog address, and wasn't clear as to what it was
William: I send it in a email about 3 weeks ago and don't remember it
williamboy3: yeah, but you didn't list the city or zip code, just the street address
William: ok it is portsmouth VA, and...I don't know the zip code but I know you can look it up on the internet with the address you have
williamboy3: I just updated your blogsite on Monday, and noticed that I didn't have your complete addressOK, I will look it upHow are things going with Elder Shockdo you have any pictures to update on the blogsiteMatt comes home tomorrowRobin said that Sue is fit to be tiedbut she has lost 35 lbs, and she is happy about thatMary Ann is down 28 lbs and I am holding at 25 lbs
William: cool
williamboy3: Matt Baker just left, or just got back from his mission, I forget which one.and someone else just got home also, but I forget whoI got a new saute pan for Fathers Day
William: cool
williamboy3: and I bought Mary Ann about 5 new skirts that look really nice on herYou already sent that picture
William: oppsstill
williamboy3: anything of you with members, or your companion?
William: I am sending comps in one sec but I am out of time so I will hurry and send it but I have to go thank you for chating this have been fun
williamboy3: We are going to see "Wicked" again, while we are down in Arizona.I look forward to chatting with you , it is so much more fun then writing emailsLove you and take care of yourself
William: that it isby
williamboy3: I will be into work earlier next week, so that we have more time
William: read our search for happiness in the mission lybrary
williamboy3: great book
William: ok I love you by
williamboy3: bye
William: then jesus the christ next
williamboy3: serious stufftalmage is a tough one to read
William: but it is amazing
williamboy3: that it is
William: GTG see you later
williamboy3: I also recommend, the miracle of forgiveness by David O. McKay
Baptism Set for Brandon - 6-24-09
Well, this week was really cool, we set Brandon McCollum for baptism and have a goal set for Brent Johnson. He is in Minnesota and New Mexico for the rest of the month, so we set him a goal after he gets back.
Yesterday, we had quite an experince as we biked from a members house. We were called over by someone, the man is Bro. Williams, we have met him before, and I never though we would see him again. But, he asked us to give his mother a presthood blessing, and so we did, and I sealed. It was a really spiritual time just for a second, but I kept feeling that during the blessing I needed to tell her that the pain she was feeling was for her good, and that it was a trial of her faith. I have never told anyone that, and I felt that it was what needed to be said. So we will see what comes of it.
I have finally tape laminated my "Preach my Gospel", and was able to start reading "Jesus the Christ". (Mom could you please send out my copy, I am using Elders Shocks copy and would really like my own.) Wow, it is incredible. I started with "Our Search for Happiness" and then went to "Jesus, the Christ" and they are both incredible books. I definately suggest reading them.
That is all I really have for this week, so I love you all, and pray for you always. Bye.
Elder Boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
I almost forgot: Helping hands shirt,
liv'in it up, and
the Elders house with Ice cream
Looking Good!,
and the Ocean at the other end of the country.
Yesterday, we had quite an experince as we biked from a members house. We were called over by someone, the man is Bro. Williams, we have met him before, and I never though we would see him again. But, he asked us to give his mother a presthood blessing, and so we did, and I sealed. It was a really spiritual time just for a second, but I kept feeling that during the blessing I needed to tell her that the pain she was feeling was for her good, and that it was a trial of her faith. I have never told anyone that, and I felt that it was what needed to be said. So we will see what comes of it.
I have finally tape laminated my "Preach my Gospel", and was able to start reading "Jesus the Christ". (Mom could you please send out my copy, I am using Elders Shocks copy and would really like my own.) Wow, it is incredible. I started with "Our Search for Happiness" and then went to "Jesus, the Christ" and they are both incredible books. I definately suggest reading them.
That is all I really have for this week, so I love you all, and pray for you always. Bye.
Elder Boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
I almost forgot: Helping hands shirt,
liv'in it up, and
the Elders house with Ice cream
Looking Good!,
and the Ocean at the other end of the country.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Who is your Hero? 06-17-09
William, I saw this on a website and thought that you would get a kick out of it.
I was so happy to get another chance to "Talk" with you.
I love you and pray for you everyday.
P.S. We saw Matt Gaunt from school last week. He was in your tech and weight lifting classes.
He is leaving for the MTC in 2 or 3 weeks and will be serving in the Richmond, Virginia Mission.
So keep an eye out for him. Love Dad
IM session from 06-17-09
[Editor Note: Here is the contents of the IM session I had with William. ]
William Boy IV: Well, this week has come and gone so fast I am already back talking with you
William Boy IV: I'm on my mission
Sent at 8:15 AM on Wednesday
williamboy3: hello
William: I have about 8 min. Whats up?
williamboy3: I was hoping I would get to talk with you again this week.
Aunt Lera Died last Weds. We went to the funeral and it was beautiful.
William: I read the email about grandma coming up and thought wow, how old was she?
williamboy3: Grandma and Sharon came up and we had a great visit
William: cool
williamboy3: Aunt Lera was 102 years old
William: WOW
williamboy3: Mary Ann has lost 21 lbs since March and I am down 24 lbs
William: very cool
williamboy3: Remember the 66 Mustang in the gargage? Sharon fell in love with it, and might buy it
William: can she
williamboy3: So what has been happening with you.
yes, it is for sale$13,500 with AC
William: not much
williamboy3: she asked poncho and he said "go ahead"
William: This week a lot of member lession. (3 min left)
williamboy3: I am having fun telling everyone that it is mine, and that now I have a younger wife and an older car
William: (check email for more)
williamboy3: ok, I have your email to send also. How are the lessons going? and how is Nicole doing? any word?
William: It will be one hopefully next week at 10:00am
williamboy3: Cool, Will you get to be there?
William: No, not yet, but I have heard that her boyfriend moved out. I will be on (sorry)
williamboy3: that's good news
William: I think so too. I have to go, my time is up and so I will chat later.
williamboy3: any new golden contacts with this latest bunch of lessons?
Love you, bye.
William: no, not yet. Love you, bye.
William Boy IV: Well, this week has come and gone so fast I am already back talking with you
William Boy IV: I'm on my mission
Sent at 8:15 AM on Wednesday
williamboy3: hello
William: I have about 8 min. Whats up?
williamboy3: I was hoping I would get to talk with you again this week.
Aunt Lera Died last Weds. We went to the funeral and it was beautiful.
William: I read the email about grandma coming up and thought wow, how old was she?
williamboy3: Grandma and Sharon came up and we had a great visit
William: cool
williamboy3: Aunt Lera was 102 years old
William: WOW
williamboy3: Mary Ann has lost 21 lbs since March and I am down 24 lbs
William: very cool
williamboy3: Remember the 66 Mustang in the gargage? Sharon fell in love with it, and might buy it
William: can she
williamboy3: So what has been happening with you.
yes, it is for sale$13,500 with AC
William: not much
williamboy3: she asked poncho and he said "go ahead"
William: This week a lot of member lession. (3 min left)
williamboy3: I am having fun telling everyone that it is mine, and that now I have a younger wife and an older car
William: (check email for more)
williamboy3: ok, I have your email to send also. How are the lessons going? and how is Nicole doing? any word?
William: It will be one hopefully next week at 10:00am
williamboy3: Cool, Will you get to be there?
William: No, not yet, but I have heard that her boyfriend moved out. I will be on (sorry)
williamboy3: that's good news
William: I think so too. I have to go, my time is up and so I will chat later.
williamboy3: any new golden contacts with this latest bunch of lessons?
Love you, bye.
William: no, not yet. Love you, bye.
Note from the letter that never was - 06-17-09
[Editors note: I was thrilled to see an IM window pop up again this week from William, So I sent of the notes from the letter I was going to write and focus on the IM session that I was able to have with him.]
Here are my notes to turn into a letter for you.
Love you Dad
-------------------------------
Aunt Lera died Grandma and Sharon's Visit
Matt Gaunt is going to Richmond on his mission, he enters the MTC in 2 weeks
IM session last week Lost 24 lbs since March, Mary Ann is down 21 lbs. And she is so happy about that.
Mary Ann's promotion at work was finally made official, she is the Customer service manager.
Robin will be here this Friday to drive down to Arizona with Steven.
We are going to the Scera Theater tomorrow to see Beauty and the Beast. Last month we saw the Bee Gees in concert. Remember going to the Hermans Hermits concert. That was great.
I am teaching the new genealogy class at church, in addition to working at the Family History Center every Weds night. I love it.
Sharon saw the 66' Mustang in the garage and screamed,, she may buy it.
Here are my notes to turn into a letter for you.
Love you Dad
-------------------------------
Aunt Lera died Grandma and Sharon's Visit
Matt Gaunt is going to Richmond on his mission, he enters the MTC in 2 weeks
IM session last week Lost 24 lbs since March, Mary Ann is down 21 lbs. And she is so happy about that.
Mary Ann's promotion at work was finally made official, she is the Customer service manager.
Robin will be here this Friday to drive down to Arizona with Steven.
We are going to the Scera Theater tomorrow to see Beauty and the Beast. Last month we saw the Bee Gees in concert. Remember going to the Hermans Hermits concert. That was great.
I am teaching the new genealogy class at church, in addition to working at the Family History Center every Weds night. I love it.
Sharon saw the 66' Mustang in the garage and screamed,, she may buy it.
Weird Dream - 06-17-09
Well this week has gone by so fast and I found out last night that I am staying in Portsmouth VA.
So I will be here for the next 4 weeks or so. I am so excited to be working here still.
There is not much to talk about this week other than my dream two nights ago. I got to train a new missionary and then I found out it was Benson. So that was weird, but other than that I really have not done much other than teach member lession so.
I love you all and can't wait to hear from you all.
Love Elder Boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
So I will be here for the next 4 weeks or so. I am so excited to be working here still.
There is not much to talk about this week other than my dream two nights ago. I got to train a new missionary and then I found out it was Benson. So that was weird, but other than that I really have not done much other than teach member lession so.
I love you all and can't wait to hear from you all.
Love Elder Boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
IM Session with William - 06-10-09
[Editor Note: I got into work planning to write a letter to William. Instead I was thrilled to have a IM chat window pop up from him. Here is the contents of the IM session. I later emailed the session back to William so that he would have a copy of it. ]
I thought you might like our IM session, as our letter for this week.
William Boy IV: sup
me: Hello
William Boy IV: this might work after all. How are things going?
me: Oh son, I am so excited to "talk" to you.
Give me a minute, I have tears in my eyes, just because you have caught me off guard.
We are all doing great, and I was just trying to add a note to last weeks email for you.
William Boy IV: ok, thanks
me: Mary Ann and I have started a new diet, and she is down 7 pounds.
William Boy IV: For the next little while I will be emailing at 10ish am
me: I am down 20, but I have more to lose.
William Boy IV: Very cool!
me: I am so excited to hear about your new area, and that you are so positive about the work that you have to do out there. I have told everyone about how cool your last bishop was, with calling the members to really support the missionaries. Your emails get here around 9am so that has been giving me 30 minutes at work to send off an email to you.
William Boy IV: Ya this new ward is really into mission work, and I am really excited to work with all of the members.
I thought you might like our IM session, as our letter for this week.
William Boy IV: sup
me: Hello
William Boy IV: this might work after all. How are things going?
me: Oh son, I am so excited to "talk" to you.
Give me a minute, I have tears in my eyes, just because you have caught me off guard.
We are all doing great, and I was just trying to add a note to last weeks email for you.
William Boy IV: ok, thanks
me: Mary Ann and I have started a new diet, and she is down 7 pounds.
William Boy IV: For the next little while I will be emailing at 10ish am
me: I am down 20, but I have more to lose.
William Boy IV: Very cool!
me: I am so excited to hear about your new area, and that you are so positive about the work that you have to do out there. I have told everyone about how cool your last bishop was, with calling the members to really support the missionaries. Your emails get here around 9am so that has been giving me 30 minutes at work to send off an email to you.
William Boy IV: Ya this new ward is really into mission work, and I am really excited to work with all of the members.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
me: Did I send you a picture with Benson next to the 66 mustang?
William Boy IV: Where did that come from?
me: I am storing it for my Boss, but I am telling everyone that it is mine. Just to play with their heads. Benson has posted the picture on his facebook, claiming that it is his just for fun.
me: Are you still there?
oh, thought I lost you.
William Boy IV: What? Why can't I store a mustang for my boss?
me: I have been playing with the church's new Genealogy program
William Boy IV: I have about 15 mins so I will finish and talk with you next week I really like this
me: I am becoming the expert at the Family History Center
me: Have you heard how things are progressing with Nicole? The woman from your last area
me: Robin is going to be coming up to Utah on the 19th. So he will be staying with us in Anneke's room
William Boy IV: I have not heard about Nicole yet. But I should at the beginning of next month, because that is when I get the report on baptisms, and cool with robin.
me: Cool, I really am praying for her. You have been so good about including us in the progress of your investigators. We include them in are prayers along with you and the other kids.
me: Mary Ann is excited to see her kids again on July 24th. We are going to the Wendelboe Family Reunion in Las Vegas. How are those new suits working out for you? How cool for Br. Del Santos to get those for you.
me: Well, I may have lost your connection, but just a few minutes with you on an IM session has
reminded me of how much I miss you.
William Boy IV: I have not been able to wear them yet, because the pants are getting hemmed by a member and so I am hoping to get them back this week. I only have 5 mins left so I will talk to you next week.
me: ok, cool. Matt is coming home from his mission in France in about 4 weeks. His letters are mostly about all the work he has to get done before he leaves. He hasn't mentioned anything about wanting to come home.
me: We bought Sharon a new computer at the BYU surplus sale. It will run circles around her old machine.
me: Well, looks like I have lost you for real this time, I love you, and I pray for you everyday. Take care of yourself - Dad
Blessing at the Naval Hospital - 06-10-09
Well this week was been better that I thought it would be. I have found I like this area alot and am really getting in to the work. We have been meeting a lot of the members and I really can't wait until I get to know them all, like in my last areas. I really love to work with the members.
Yesterdays weather was bad we got caught in a lightning storm and I used to like them. Now, I only like them if I don't have to be out in them or can get back home.
Elder Shock and I have been working hard and really hope to have a baptism coming up real soon. We had the opportunity to go to the naval hospital on Monday for a members niece. She wanted a blessing before she went in for surgery, and I will tell you that she did not look good. But the spirit was amazing, she was so willing and we were able to drink the spirit, it was so thick.
That is all for the week, I hope every one back home is safe and working hard or sleeping for me, I pray for you all and know you are all praying for me.
love you all
Elder Boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
Yesterdays weather was bad we got caught in a lightning storm and I used to like them. Now, I only like them if I don't have to be out in them or can get back home.
Elder Shock and I have been working hard and really hope to have a baptism coming up real soon. We had the opportunity to go to the naval hospital on Monday for a members niece. She wanted a blessing before she went in for surgery, and I will tell you that she did not look good. But the spirit was amazing, she was so willing and we were able to drink the spirit, it was so thick.
That is all for the week, I hope every one back home is safe and working hard or sleeping for me, I pray for you all and know you are all praying for me.
love you all
Elder Boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
66 Mustang - 06-03-09
Yesterday, My Boss, Art, accepted my offer to store his 66 Mustang in our garage. So we decided to have a little fun with Anneke. I told her that I just bought it and that Art was going to help me to restore it. We took it for a ride and took pictures by it, and I told her that she could help fix it up. But, I am really just storing it, and even though Benson said that he was going to claim it was his new car on his facebook, we all know that it has to go back to Art soon.
It has a cool high power sound, but dosen't really handle very well at all. But it sure does look nice.
Indy got a haircut, so he looks like he has lost about 10 lbs. And last weekend Benson and I helped Steve put up a shed in his back yard.
I talked to Sue and Grandma last weekend, and everyone is real excited about our coming down next month for Matt's homecoming. We are all going to see the play "Wicked" at the theater down there. Mary Ann and I have already seen it and we are very excited to see it again.
BYU had a surplus sale last week and I bought a new computer for Sharon and Poncho. It is a 3 GHz processor, but only 512mg of Ram, and a 40 Gig HD. I hope to find anoither 512 gig of memory before we bring it down to her.
Well I hope that we get to "talk" more on a IM session but I will send this off for now.
I love you and I am so thrilled to hear from you every week. Take good care of yourself, and we will talk to you soon.
-Dad, Mary Ann and Benson
It has a cool high power sound, but dosen't really handle very well at all. But it sure does look nice.
Indy got a haircut, so he looks like he has lost about 10 lbs. And last weekend Benson and I helped Steve put up a shed in his back yard.
I talked to Sue and Grandma last weekend, and everyone is real excited about our coming down next month for Matt's homecoming. We are all going to see the play "Wicked" at the theater down there. Mary Ann and I have already seen it and we are very excited to see it again.
BYU had a surplus sale last week and I bought a new computer for Sharon and Poncho. It is a 3 GHz processor, but only 512mg of Ram, and a 40 Gig HD. I hope to find anoither 512 gig of memory before we bring it down to her.
Well I hope that we get to "talk" more on a IM session but I will send this off for now.
I love you and I am so thrilled to hear from you every week. Take good care of yourself, and we will talk to you soon.
-Dad, Mary Ann and Benson
Emergency Transfer - 06-03-09
Well this week was really cool with transfers and all I was looking forward to getting a call on Tuesdayto find out if I stay or go and then if needed to be packing on wednesday.
But I got a call Monday and then had to pack that night because I was being ET (emergency transfered) to Portsmouth on Tuseday just before transfers. The missionaries in SLC got held back for two weeks and one of my new companions is leaving tomorrow.
I was here to be with Elder Shock for at least two weeks, after that we will get tranfer calls and I will know if I stay there or move again.
Other than that, this week has been a really good week, and I can't wait to get to work in my new area.
Love Elder Boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
P.S. To everyone I will be emailing the next two weeks at 10:00am-10;15am, and if I stay here that it will be that time for the next 6 weeks so if anyone wants to email me at that time, when I am online I can chat and would love to chat with you.
But I got a call Monday and then had to pack that night because I was being ET (emergency transfered) to Portsmouth on Tuseday just before transfers. The missionaries in SLC got held back for two weeks and one of my new companions is leaving tomorrow.
I was here to be with Elder Shock for at least two weeks, after that we will get tranfer calls and I will know if I stay there or move again.
Other than that, this week has been a really good week, and I can't wait to get to work in my new area.
Love Elder Boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
P.S. To everyone I will be emailing the next two weeks at 10:00am-10;15am, and if I stay here that it will be that time for the next 6 weeks so if anyone wants to email me at that time, when I am online I can chat and would love to chat with you.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
2 new suits - 5-28-09
Hello everyone,
Well things continue to pick up in the VRM (Virginia Richmond Mission) no telling what might come up next either another car accident or fire or tornado or... The AC died, but only for a short time. I was sick on Sunday and stayed in, that really was bad. I never want to be sick again.
AJ and JR the two boys I talked about are working towards baptism on the 18 on July.
Good job Anneke for working at the Scera it will help you get a job there and you will be able to make some money (I have been told), and I am sure that it is a fun job.
Benson is getting his patriartical blessing that is cool and getting really for his mission, knowing that you want to be in the lords service is such a blessing to hear. I have felt the spirt that can be found only through missionary work the love and the charity that you show will help everyone you come in contact with.
Hearing that maybe you are looking at me as more than an anoying brother that you didn't always get along with makes my time out here all worth it. By the way, next week is TRANSFERS so any letters if not sent by Friday, should wait until next Wednesday, when I know if I stay or go.
Today we went up to Williamsburg and I got two brand new S&K suits worth about $300-$400 each. I got them for about $50 and even at that Br. Delo Santos got them for us. We went to the outlet store and S&K is going out of business. Even then the marked down priced were all 50% off, $50+50% off= $25 each suit :) that was a killer deal. I got two new suits, so the suits I have now will be used until there are run to the ground. From what I have seen so far they will be.
I love you all and can't wait to get a letter from you.
Love Elder Boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
Well things continue to pick up in the VRM (Virginia Richmond Mission) no telling what might come up next either another car accident or fire or tornado or... The AC died, but only for a short time. I was sick on Sunday and stayed in, that really was bad. I never want to be sick again.
AJ and JR the two boys I talked about are working towards baptism on the 18 on July.
Good job Anneke for working at the Scera it will help you get a job there and you will be able to make some money (I have been told), and I am sure that it is a fun job.
Benson is getting his patriartical blessing that is cool and getting really for his mission, knowing that you want to be in the lords service is such a blessing to hear. I have felt the spirt that can be found only through missionary work the love and the charity that you show will help everyone you come in contact with.
Hearing that maybe you are looking at me as more than an anoying brother that you didn't always get along with makes my time out here all worth it. By the way, next week is TRANSFERS so any letters if not sent by Friday, should wait until next Wednesday, when I know if I stay or go.
Today we went up to Williamsburg and I got two brand new S&K suits worth about $300-$400 each. I got them for about $50 and even at that Br. Delo Santos got them for us. We went to the outlet store and S&K is going out of business. Even then the marked down priced were all 50% off, $50+50% off= $25 each suit :) that was a killer deal. I got two new suits, so the suits I have now will be used until there are run to the ground. From what I have seen so far they will be.
I love you all and can't wait to get a letter from you.
Love Elder Boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
Getting caught up on the Blog - 5-27-09
Hello Son,
Heidi chewed me out last week for not updating your blog site. So this week I had better get to it. Things have been so busy at work, I just haven't had any time. Last night I helped out at the Genealogy library, working with a young men's group. It was fun enough, but you could tell that the guys didn't really want to be there. I saw an old friend of mine there also. He is a great guy, but has got to be one of the worst genealogists I have ever seen. I have to look away as he enters information on the computer. He makes up dates and places as estimates on peoples births and deaths. He says that as long as it is about the same time and about the same place that he cean take the names through the Temple. But, he is setting his family history research back 100 years for the people that follow him. Because they wouldn't know the difference between the validated data and the madeup stuff.
On Memorial day Mary Ann made me go shopping with her. Kind of like your mothers day after Thanksgiving sales. We went to Dillards and bought $700 worth of clothes, for $87. She got a $200 dress for $16.00. We also had a chance to go out to the Pleasant Grove Cemetery and take some pictures of some headstones out there.
Well, school ends today, for Benson and Anneke. Remember how you were feeling this at time last year? Graduating with your friends. you sure worked hard to get there, and I am very proud of the hard work that you put in to make it happen. I'll bet that it seems like a lifetime ago when you compare it to where you are now. And with the hard work you put in everyday, I'll bet that 6 hours at school would seem like a vacation. you haven't had a 6 hour day since you got into the MTC, have you?
I got your birthday card in the mail yesterday, it was great. When I opened it I busted out laughing and when I read it I was really touched by what you had to say. I told Mary Ann that I am so glad that I didn't drowned you as a child or even through your teenage years, because moments like that make it all worth it. Thank you very much.
Mary Ann is the manager of the customer service department, here at work. It is hard work but she is enjoying it. I just talked to Sharon yesterday. She is having computer problems and the BYU surplus sale is this afternoon, so I am going to pick up a new system for her. They have flat screen monitors for $35.
Well, I hope that everything is going great with you. Have the 2 boys that you talked about last week been back out to church? I hope so. And I hope that the other investigators that you have been working with have continued to progress, as well.
Keep up the good work, son. I love you
Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson
Heidi chewed me out last week for not updating your blog site. So this week I had better get to it. Things have been so busy at work, I just haven't had any time. Last night I helped out at the Genealogy library, working with a young men's group. It was fun enough, but you could tell that the guys didn't really want to be there. I saw an old friend of mine there also. He is a great guy, but has got to be one of the worst genealogists I have ever seen. I have to look away as he enters information on the computer. He makes up dates and places as estimates on peoples births and deaths. He says that as long as it is about the same time and about the same place that he cean take the names through the Temple. But, he is setting his family history research back 100 years for the people that follow him. Because they wouldn't know the difference between the validated data and the madeup stuff.
On Memorial day Mary Ann made me go shopping with her. Kind of like your mothers day after Thanksgiving sales. We went to Dillards and bought $700 worth of clothes, for $87. She got a $200 dress for $16.00. We also had a chance to go out to the Pleasant Grove Cemetery and take some pictures of some headstones out there.
Well, school ends today, for Benson and Anneke. Remember how you were feeling this at time last year? Graduating with your friends. you sure worked hard to get there, and I am very proud of the hard work that you put in to make it happen. I'll bet that it seems like a lifetime ago when you compare it to where you are now. And with the hard work you put in everyday, I'll bet that 6 hours at school would seem like a vacation. you haven't had a 6 hour day since you got into the MTC, have you?
I got your birthday card in the mail yesterday, it was great. When I opened it I busted out laughing and when I read it I was really touched by what you had to say. I told Mary Ann that I am so glad that I didn't drowned you as a child or even through your teenage years, because moments like that make it all worth it. Thank you very much.
Mary Ann is the manager of the customer service department, here at work. It is hard work but she is enjoying it. I just talked to Sharon yesterday. She is having computer problems and the BYU surplus sale is this afternoon, so I am going to pick up a new system for her. They have flat screen monitors for $35.
Well, I hope that everything is going great with you. Have the 2 boys that you talked about last week been back out to church? I hope so. And I hope that the other investigators that you have been working with have continued to progress, as well.
Keep up the good work, son. I love you
Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson
Greatest week so far - 5-20-09
Hello everyone,
Well, this last week has been a big week, we finaly got AJ and JR to sacrament meeting (two boys whose mother in less active and they are unbaptized), so that was big. Nicole is still working towards her baptism date and getting her exboyfriend kicked out.
The biggest thing for the week is the feeling the ward has towards us right now. We have been working hard, and the ward members are beginning to trust us more. We have been able to meet with many of the members and share short messages with them.
This is the best week I have had of my time here, and the start of the week was not the best. Sunday and Monday never seemed to end, but days like that are ok on a mission because the next day will be better. Satan is always trying to get you down.
Love you all,
Elder Boy
Picture - Sitting after trying tracting on a hot humid May day
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
Well, this last week has been a big week, we finaly got AJ and JR to sacrament meeting (two boys whose mother in less active and they are unbaptized), so that was big. Nicole is still working towards her baptism date and getting her exboyfriend kicked out.
The biggest thing for the week is the feeling the ward has towards us right now. We have been working hard, and the ward members are beginning to trust us more. We have been able to meet with many of the members and share short messages with them.
This is the best week I have had of my time here, and the start of the week was not the best. Sunday and Monday never seemed to end, but days like that are ok on a mission because the next day will be better. Satan is always trying to get you down.
Love you all,
Elder Boy
Picture - Sitting after trying tracting on a hot humid May day
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
Happy Birthday to Me - 5-19-09
Hey William,
How have things been going with you? We are doing great back here. Work is super busy and we just sent Wes back to Vegas. I had a "Birthday Brat" for dinner, Not as big as the one that we got for you, but still a whopper.
We have been cleaning up around the house, kind of spring cleaning I guess. Benson is counting down the days until School is out. He is still looking for a job, but nothing yet. He got his Silver Palm for his Eagle today.
Well I am really short for words today, so I will give up. I hope that things are going great for you. I hope that you are able to find the people that God has prepared for you to find.
We think of you everyday, and you are in our prayers.
Love Dad, Mary Ann and Benson
How have things been going with you? We are doing great back here. Work is super busy and we just sent Wes back to Vegas. I had a "Birthday Brat" for dinner, Not as big as the one that we got for you, but still a whopper.
We have been cleaning up around the house, kind of spring cleaning I guess. Benson is counting down the days until School is out. He is still looking for a job, but nothing yet. He got his Silver Palm for his Eagle today.
Well I am really short for words today, so I will give up. I hope that things are going great for you. I hope that you are able to find the people that God has prepared for you to find.
We think of you everyday, and you are in our prayers.
Love Dad, Mary Ann and Benson
Setting Nicole up for Baptism 5-13-09
Hello everyone,
Wow time has flown by since sunday and I really couldn't think of what else to say other than yesterday we set Nicole (one of our investigators) for baptism on the 20th of june and that was really cool. We also get two other investigators set to came to church this week, and that was all done yesterday.
I still would like more pictures from everyone (Thank you Heidi for the pictures), I still have room on my card and want pictures of family and friends. ( yes that means all of my friends can send me emails and letters).
Thank you for your help in this endeavor, I love to look at them for seconds at a time and each second is important to me.
Thank you and have a nice week.
Elder Boy
PS. Thanks for all the prayers
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
Wow time has flown by since sunday and I really couldn't think of what else to say other than yesterday we set Nicole (one of our investigators) for baptism on the 20th of june and that was really cool. We also get two other investigators set to came to church this week, and that was all done yesterday.
I still would like more pictures from everyone (Thank you Heidi for the pictures), I still have room on my card and want pictures of family and friends. ( yes that means all of my friends can send me emails and letters).
Thank you for your help in this endeavor, I love to look at them for seconds at a time and each second is important to me.
Thank you and have a nice week.
Elder Boy
PS. Thanks for all the prayers
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
After Mother's Day 5-13-09
Hi son,
It sure was great to talk to you on Mother's Day. I was surprsed by how much I was looking forward to hearing your voice. I really do miss seeing you everyday. It is great to hear of all the stories that you have to tell about the investigators, and those that are preparing for baptism.
We had a great time in Vegas with the kids, and Wes is up in Orem for the week. I am afraid that his is bored out of his skull. We are going to try to get him some studio time at the Hoffman's recording studio, I think that he would like that.
We stopped at several cemeteries on our way to Vegas, and I have about 300 new headstone to add to our genealogy. I have been asked to teach a class at the family History Center the end od this month so I need to create a lesson plan. I am looking forward to it, because of some of the many things that I have done with saving pictures as resources in your PAF files.
Benson and Mary Ann each went to the Dr's office, to get some relief from their allergies. I hope that it works for them. Allergies have really been bad this year.
We are planning out the garden, so we can start planting soon. As sure as we ar sure that we are done getting snow for the summer. Benson only has a couple more weeks of school left, and he is out looking for a job for the summer. He really wants to earn some money, he has been using up his money from working at scout camp.
Well I need to get his sent off to you so you see it today.I love you, I hope that you know that our prayers are with you.
Take can of yourself son, Love.
Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson
It sure was great to talk to you on Mother's Day. I was surprsed by how much I was looking forward to hearing your voice. I really do miss seeing you everyday. It is great to hear of all the stories that you have to tell about the investigators, and those that are preparing for baptism.
We had a great time in Vegas with the kids, and Wes is up in Orem for the week. I am afraid that his is bored out of his skull. We are going to try to get him some studio time at the Hoffman's recording studio, I think that he would like that.
We stopped at several cemeteries on our way to Vegas, and I have about 300 new headstone to add to our genealogy. I have been asked to teach a class at the family History Center the end od this month so I need to create a lesson plan. I am looking forward to it, because of some of the many things that I have done with saving pictures as resources in your PAF files.
Benson and Mary Ann each went to the Dr's office, to get some relief from their allergies. I hope that it works for them. Allergies have really been bad this year.
We are planning out the garden, so we can start planting soon. As sure as we ar sure that we are done getting snow for the summer. Benson only has a couple more weeks of school left, and he is out looking for a job for the summer. He really wants to earn some money, he has been using up his money from working at scout camp.
Well I need to get his sent off to you so you see it today.I love you, I hope that you know that our prayers are with you.
Take can of yourself son, Love.
Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson
Getting AJ and JR ready for baptism 5-6-09
Well this last week has been really fast, we have been teaching alot of people and I can't believe how the work is going. A couple of things about my new area,we live in two places one is a small apartment and the other is a 1/2 million dollar house, ( a member owns it and we stay with him half the week). The other thing is that he cooks for us and we get really good food just like home and we get to work the northern part of our area better.
We are going to set two boys for baptism really soon, they are unbaptized youth, named AJ and JR, they are really cool boys and we can't wait. This week we have been working like mad men trying to see every one that we need to. I am really enjoying this instead of looking for people to teach all day. We can find and teach at the same time. I hope everything is going well at home and I will be calling in the afternoon (my time about 12-3pm) or so and maybe 8pm but I don't have an exact time because we don't get time off to call. We need to find time and work around our day.
This week we have also had two tornado warnings and 4 torrnados touch down just north of the area in Williamsburg. We went up to Jamestown today. I will send pictures next week because I don't have my card reader today, but next week for sure.
Love you all.
Elder Boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
We are going to set two boys for baptism really soon, they are unbaptized youth, named AJ and JR, they are really cool boys and we can't wait. This week we have been working like mad men trying to see every one that we need to. I am really enjoying this instead of looking for people to teach all day. We can find and teach at the same time. I hope everything is going well at home and I will be calling in the afternoon (my time about 12-3pm) or so and maybe 8pm but I don't have an exact time because we don't get time off to call. We need to find time and work around our day.
This week we have also had two tornado warnings and 4 torrnados touch down just north of the area in Williamsburg. We went up to Jamestown today. I will send pictures next week because I don't have my card reader today, but next week for sure.
Love you all.
Elder Boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
Benson at Prom and more 5-5-09
William,
How has this week been for you. I was excited to hear that your "queue" is filling back up. Your hard work is paying off and you will continue to reap the rewards from it.
The big deal for this week has got to be "X-Men: Wolverine". We saw it yesterday and it was really good. Lots of action and a great story line to explain how Wolverine got to be who he is.
Benson went to Prom on Saturday. He went with 3 other couples to Trafalga, and then to McGrath's Fishhouse. No pictures yet. He bought his Tux last year so he got to use it again this year. While his friends spent from $80 - $160 for their Tuxedos, he just spent $10 to by a matching tie. He said that he danced 10 dances with his date, but I am not sure if I believe him.
Mary Ann is excited to see her kids this weekend while we are in Las Vegas. We are leaving Friday night so we can stop of at some cemeteries to do some genealogy on the way the there.
Benson is working hard looking for a job for the summer. Today he submitted 6 applications at different places.
Danny Spaulding is back from Idaho and Ben Spaulding is geting married on the 23rd, she is really nice.
Matt is starting to send stuff home from France. He is about 8 weeks away from coming home. Sue is down 26 pounds and walking 3 miles everyday. I have even started to walk on the treadmill, I am down 13 pounds, and it is time to get serious about losing some weight.
Well, we are excited to hear from you on Mothers Day, We will be on the road coming back from Las Vegas but Mary Ann will have her Cell phone on waiting to hear from you. (Cell # (801) 358-9644).
Well that is all for now, I have given up trying to write a snailmail to you. I just can't bring myself to do it. Maybe without any pressure I will just relax about it and do it.
I love you, and I am so proud of you. Take good care of yourself and continue your hard work.
Love
Dad, Mary ann and Benson
How has this week been for you. I was excited to hear that your "queue" is filling back up. Your hard work is paying off and you will continue to reap the rewards from it.
The big deal for this week has got to be "X-Men: Wolverine". We saw it yesterday and it was really good. Lots of action and a great story line to explain how Wolverine got to be who he is.
Benson went to Prom on Saturday. He went with 3 other couples to Trafalga, and then to McGrath's Fishhouse. No pictures yet. He bought his Tux last year so he got to use it again this year. While his friends spent from $80 - $160 for their Tuxedos, he just spent $10 to by a matching tie. He said that he danced 10 dances with his date, but I am not sure if I believe him.
Mary Ann is excited to see her kids this weekend while we are in Las Vegas. We are leaving Friday night so we can stop of at some cemeteries to do some genealogy on the way the there.
Benson is working hard looking for a job for the summer. Today he submitted 6 applications at different places.
Danny Spaulding is back from Idaho and Ben Spaulding is geting married on the 23rd, she is really nice.
Matt is starting to send stuff home from France. He is about 8 weeks away from coming home. Sue is down 26 pounds and walking 3 miles everyday. I have even started to walk on the treadmill, I am down 13 pounds, and it is time to get serious about losing some weight.
Well, we are excited to hear from you on Mothers Day, We will be on the road coming back from Las Vegas but Mary Ann will have her Cell phone on waiting to hear from you. (Cell # (801) 358-9644).
Well that is all for now, I have given up trying to write a snailmail to you. I just can't bring myself to do it. Maybe without any pressure I will just relax about it and do it.
I love you, and I am so proud of you. Take good care of yourself and continue your hard work.
Love
Dad, Mary ann and Benson
New Address for New Area - 4-29-09
Well, I can't believe that 6 months is almost here and I will be calling home very soon.
The work here is getting started, my new companions are Elder Hiltbrand and Elder Miller my new area is Benetts Creek. I have been told that the last missionaries in the area were not liked by the members and were really lazy, so we get to help bring back the trust in the members and show them that we are working hard. So far the members are great and the investigators are piling up. We almost can't handle them all. This work is amazing and I can't believe what blessings I have recieved.
By the way, my new address is: 601 Hillpoint Blvd. #618 Suffolk, VA. 23424.
I will be calling differently this time, because it is not on a p-day or break day. I will be calling about 1:00 pm-2:00 pm your time (yes I did the math and you are two hours behind us), and 5:00-7:00pm your time. Now I could be off a little and I don't completely understand all the rules but it will all work out.
There is something really cool this transfer, we are spending half our time in a members home staying there and sleeping there, Bro. Delo Santos, he is really cool, he is from hawaii and is really willing to help us out, because we have so few miles to travel each day and need to work a big area we stay at his house and work the next day.
We saw a turtle yesterday, trying to cross a parking lot so we helped the little guy out and put him in a pond, this new area is much more country that Newport News was.
Love you all,
Elder Boy
P.S. I have a cool feature on my GPS that allows me to look at pictures. I would like to put pictures of family on it but at the moment don't have any family here to take pictures of. I have a card reader and can get the pictures off of the emails I just need you to send me some. I know that some of you have already sent some pictures and my inbox is very small so I have to get rid of some, but Iwould really like some picutes of family and things that are going on at home.
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
The work here is getting started, my new companions are Elder Hiltbrand and Elder Miller my new area is Benetts Creek. I have been told that the last missionaries in the area were not liked by the members and were really lazy, so we get to help bring back the trust in the members and show them that we are working hard. So far the members are great and the investigators are piling up. We almost can't handle them all. This work is amazing and I can't believe what blessings I have recieved.
By the way, my new address is: 601 Hillpoint Blvd. #618 Suffolk, VA. 23424.
I will be calling differently this time, because it is not on a p-day or break day. I will be calling about 1:00 pm-2:00 pm your time (yes I did the math and you are two hours behind us), and 5:00-7:00pm your time. Now I could be off a little and I don't completely understand all the rules but it will all work out.
There is something really cool this transfer, we are spending half our time in a members home staying there and sleeping there, Bro. Delo Santos, he is really cool, he is from hawaii and is really willing to help us out, because we have so few miles to travel each day and need to work a big area we stay at his house and work the next day.
We saw a turtle yesterday, trying to cross a parking lot so we helped the little guy out and put him in a pond, this new area is much more country that Newport News was.
Love you all,
Elder Boy
P.S. I have a cool feature on my GPS that allows me to look at pictures. I would like to put pictures of family on it but at the moment don't have any family here to take pictures of. I have a card reader and can get the pictures off of the emails I just need you to send me some. I know that some of you have already sent some pictures and my inbox is very small so I have to get rid of some, but Iwould really like some picutes of family and things that are going on at home.
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
What's happening in Utah 4-28-09
Hello Son,
I can't believe that I blew off a letter to you not one week but two. I am so sorry. This week has been every bit as crazy as the last two, but Mary Ann has reminded me.
Garth was up here for spring break, and Mary Ann loved seeing him again. Benson, asked a girl out for Prom this week. He is going out with 3 other couples. I hope that they have a great time.
Mary Ann took Anneke to the salon so that she could get a new haircut. I looks so nice.
At Deseret Industries last week we picked up a park bench. I am refinishing it.
We had Russ and his family over for a brats and a picnic. The grill never looked happier (so I included a picture).
Mary Ann got a promotion at work, she is now over the Customer Service Department.
We had 14 inches of snow last week (really) and also 87 degree weather. Welcome to Utah.
Well, I am sure that you can tell that my heart is not in this, but I really have a lot on my mind.
I hope that you are having a great week, and that you have baptisms so thick that you have to just line them up and run them through the car wash. lol
I love hearing from you, and I hope that you are getting settled in there in Chesapeake. Who is your new companion, and what is your new area like.
Mary Ann and I are going to Las Vegas for Mothers Day so that she can see her kids. If you get to call us too on Mothers Day, use her cell phone # (801) 356-xxxx.
I love you son, and I hope that everything is going great for you.
Love, Dad, Mary ann and Benson.
I can't believe that I blew off a letter to you not one week but two. I am so sorry. This week has been every bit as crazy as the last two, but Mary Ann has reminded me.
Garth was up here for spring break, and Mary Ann loved seeing him again. Benson, asked a girl out for Prom this week. He is going out with 3 other couples. I hope that they have a great time.
Mary Ann took Anneke to the salon so that she could get a new haircut. I looks so nice.
At Deseret Industries last week we picked up a park bench. I am refinishing it.
We had Russ and his family over for a brats and a picnic. The grill never looked happier (so I included a picture). Mary Ann got a promotion at work, she is now over the Customer Service Department.
We had 14 inches of snow last week (really) and also 87 degree weather. Welcome to Utah.
Well, I am sure that you can tell that my heart is not in this, but I really have a lot on my mind.
I hope that you are having a great week, and that you have baptisms so thick that you have to just line them up and run them through the car wash. lol
I love hearing from you, and I hope that you are getting settled in there in Chesapeake. Who is your new companion, and what is your new area like.
Mary Ann and I are going to Las Vegas for Mothers Day so that she can see her kids. If you get to call us too on Mothers Day, use her cell phone # (801) 356-xxxx.
I love you son, and I hope that everything is going great for you.
Love, Dad, Mary ann and Benson.
Easter Weekend 4-22-09
Hello Everyone,
Well, this week has gone by way to fast. This whole transfer has gone by fast, I found out that I am being transfered down to Chesapeake and I leave tomorrow. (Funny, you thought I was staying),
I am really going to miss Newport News and the great people here. I didn't realize it, but I really don't like moving after being in an area for so long. Finally getting to know my way around then I get moved. I know that this is were the Lord needs me to go and I am really looking forward to my new area (I am in a car).
I still have not gotten my new licence and do not know my new address yet. I will write it and send it off tomorrow. I needed to get the carry on bag for my stuff and so I went out and got it and the back pack I had for my 72 hour kit ripped in half with only 24 hours worth of stuff in it.
This next month is Mothers Day and I will be calling home for the second time. WOW! time is moving fast I will be hitting my 6 month mark on Dad's birthday and then my one year mark. I am done thinking about it this is just to fast.
P.S. Any packages? Please send them to the Mission Home until further notice.
P.S. Don't forget to update the website.
Love Elder Boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
Well, this week has gone by way to fast. This whole transfer has gone by fast, I found out that I am being transfered down to Chesapeake and I leave tomorrow. (Funny, you thought I was staying),
I am really going to miss Newport News and the great people here. I didn't realize it, but I really don't like moving after being in an area for so long. Finally getting to know my way around then I get moved. I know that this is were the Lord needs me to go and I am really looking forward to my new area (I am in a car).
I still have not gotten my new licence and do not know my new address yet. I will write it and send it off tomorrow. I needed to get the carry on bag for my stuff and so I went out and got it and the back pack I had for my 72 hour kit ripped in half with only 24 hours worth of stuff in it.
This next month is Mothers Day and I will be calling home for the second time. WOW! time is moving fast I will be hitting my 6 month mark on Dad's birthday and then my one year mark. I am done thinking about it this is just to fast.
P.S. Any packages? Please send them to the Mission Home until further notice.
P.S. Don't forget to update the website.
Love Elder Boy
Virginia ROCK! the church is true, and I love you. read mosiah 3
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