Well... I know that in 11 days I hit 7 months... but I didn't know that I was that many days in the mission... weird...
I will make sure that I keep the Hopkins in my prayers, and I'm sure I'm not the only one who will be.
This week was a very, very, very cold week, with some days reaching the sub-zero mark in C. That really affected Sunday as well, with barely any members showing up. It made it especially hard for the family that we are working with right now, the Flia. Martinez. (we had to drop Damian for a bit because he hasn't been progressing)
This is the family that we helped make bricks with last week, so it was quite sad to not see them in church, but we continue to pray for them, and pray for the inspiration that we need to help them get back on track.
The spiritual thing I learned this week was really from watching a mistake. This week the other Elders with us in Cosquin had a baptism. Now, before hand, I'm not going to say I'm a pro at this at all... considering I've had one so far... but what happened Saturday for their investigator's baptism was anything but a spiritual moment. They didn't plan the day very well, or in accordance with what the branch had already planned, which was that the branch had an activity with the primary children so they were all loud and restless, they didn't have anything absolutely set and ready, and overall, their investigator didn't feel comfortable and very embarrassed. It was interesting to think about this baptism and the one that I had... there was a huge difference, and a huge difference in the Spirit that was there... kinda like your experience at the temple.
It makes sense that Lord asks us to be in places where we can feel the Spirit, and now I realize, at times... we need to make places that already have the Spirit, still worthy to have the Spirit. A baptism must have the Spirit so that every one there can reflect and build their testimony, the temple must have the Spirit so that everyone can receive the revelation that the temple gives to everyone that enters, and finally, we must have the Spirit with us to remember all that is truly important.
That is what happened for me this week and I wish everyone a welcome back to school and hope all goes well with the drama that is bound to happen!
-Ian
Monday, August 23, 2010
August 9, 2010
Haha, that's fine.
This week, I think I'll talk about a service that we did for a family that we just found a week ago. Last sunday, a young woman came to the church, and nobody knew who she was or anything. Turned out that her and her family had been living in Cosquin for two years now, are members of the Church, and now are beginning to attend church again. We went home to see her family and to find out where they live so we can update the Branch Directory.
Turns out that her and her family all make Bricks for a living. It was interesting to see their living conditions, and it really humbled me, especially because they were a very close family, and they didn't seem to mind that they were living in conditions that they made for themselves.
The service that we did for them is that we helped them make bricks, and even more, a real brick oven. It was incredible to see how it all worked out, especially when we found out how long it takes to make a brick!
This week, it also snowed, and was incredibly cold, I remeber praying like there was no tomorrow because it's been so hard to work with my asthma lately, especially since the temperature has been dropping. But I know that as long as I still do the work, everything will go all right, I've even noticed days that when I had basically thought that I was done and couldn't do more, that I got sudden boosts of energy and motivation to keep pushing forward. Must be those angels that surround me or something.
Well, that's really about it for this week, we both got sick at the end of the week, but even so, we got that family to church and they will be baptized probably the 28th of August, so I'll keep you posted on that.
Love y'all
-Ian
This week, I think I'll talk about a service that we did for a family that we just found a week ago. Last sunday, a young woman came to the church, and nobody knew who she was or anything. Turned out that her and her family had been living in Cosquin for two years now, are members of the Church, and now are beginning to attend church again. We went home to see her family and to find out where they live so we can update the Branch Directory.
Turns out that her and her family all make Bricks for a living. It was interesting to see their living conditions, and it really humbled me, especially because they were a very close family, and they didn't seem to mind that they were living in conditions that they made for themselves.
The service that we did for them is that we helped them make bricks, and even more, a real brick oven. It was incredible to see how it all worked out, especially when we found out how long it takes to make a brick!
This week, it also snowed, and was incredibly cold, I remeber praying like there was no tomorrow because it's been so hard to work with my asthma lately, especially since the temperature has been dropping. But I know that as long as I still do the work, everything will go all right, I've even noticed days that when I had basically thought that I was done and couldn't do more, that I got sudden boosts of energy and motivation to keep pushing forward. Must be those angels that surround me or something.
Well, that's really about it for this week, we both got sick at the end of the week, but even so, we got that family to church and they will be baptized probably the 28th of August, so I'll keep you posted on that.
Love y'all
-Ian
August 2, 2010
Thanks for the fast with me, it really was needed for that moment.
Well this week, was get ready for a possible transfer week, so we were quite busy letting members and investigators know what might happen. But really that wasn't the power house amazing-ness of the week, this is...
A few weeks ago, a woman in the branch, on the way to the temple, got struck down by a stroke. For weeks, the branch and us, the missionaries, prayed strongly and fervently for her recovery. For about 2 weeks after the incident, people were anxious and faithful for her recovery. Last sunday, we heard she was finally out of the hospital and back home, so E' Hone and I rushed to see how she and her family were doing. It was a very heartfelt, and mellow enviornment, entering into the family's house and seeing the family still sticking together. Yesterday morning, during testimony meeting, many of the members bore their testimonies on how powerful the Lord truly is, especially in helping this hermana in her recovery.
Then to finish it all of, the hermana herself, walked up to the pulpit and bore testimony. It was amazingly powerful to see it, and there was not a dry eye in the chapel when she finished. Thinking of my experiences of last week, I thought to myself, "Wow, and I thought I had something hard to deal with, being a missionary and all." The faith of these people are truly astounding, and while we are in a small branch, it is amazing to see the unity that they have.
This week, I also learned something extraordinary. I've been studying a bit in Doctrine and Covenants and this last week I got to section 10. It was amazing to study through it, especially at the end of the section in which I learned the true awesomeness of the Lord. I know in my life that I have often thought that I never would be a fullfilment of prophecy or an answer to somebody's prayer, but in reading this section, I realized how dumb I really was. I learned that I am now fullfilling the prayers of Enos, Alma, Ammon, and all the great heros of the Book of Mormon, by answering their prayers to bring the Book of Mormon to all nations. I was extremely humbled in this, especially when I came to the conclusion of how important I truly am in the work of the Lord.
It was a great week, and now here we go with another transfer!
-Ian
Well this week, was get ready for a possible transfer week, so we were quite busy letting members and investigators know what might happen. But really that wasn't the power house amazing-ness of the week, this is...
A few weeks ago, a woman in the branch, on the way to the temple, got struck down by a stroke. For weeks, the branch and us, the missionaries, prayed strongly and fervently for her recovery. For about 2 weeks after the incident, people were anxious and faithful for her recovery. Last sunday, we heard she was finally out of the hospital and back home, so E' Hone and I rushed to see how she and her family were doing. It was a very heartfelt, and mellow enviornment, entering into the family's house and seeing the family still sticking together. Yesterday morning, during testimony meeting, many of the members bore their testimonies on how powerful the Lord truly is, especially in helping this hermana in her recovery.
Then to finish it all of, the hermana herself, walked up to the pulpit and bore testimony. It was amazingly powerful to see it, and there was not a dry eye in the chapel when she finished. Thinking of my experiences of last week, I thought to myself, "Wow, and I thought I had something hard to deal with, being a missionary and all." The faith of these people are truly astounding, and while we are in a small branch, it is amazing to see the unity that they have.
This week, I also learned something extraordinary. I've been studying a bit in Doctrine and Covenants and this last week I got to section 10. It was amazing to study through it, especially at the end of the section in which I learned the true awesomeness of the Lord. I know in my life that I have often thought that I never would be a fullfilment of prophecy or an answer to somebody's prayer, but in reading this section, I realized how dumb I really was. I learned that I am now fullfilling the prayers of Enos, Alma, Ammon, and all the great heros of the Book of Mormon, by answering their prayers to bring the Book of Mormon to all nations. I was extremely humbled in this, especially when I came to the conclusion of how important I truly am in the work of the Lord.
It was a great week, and now here we go with another transfer!
-Ian
July 26, 2010
Last week of transfer 3 this week!!!
Well it has been quite a week, with quite a few amazing experiences, one that was really powerful.
One of the investigators that we are currently working with is the son of another investigator, his name is Damián Altimira. Only just recently after months of hearing of the church and of all we do, he has come to us and with real intent looked forward to baptism and being a part of the church. One of the ways I know this is that our first real lesson with him was him asking us to come over to give him a blessing of health. It was amazing to hear that he was willing to be humble and do that. After that he started coming to church activities and as well as coming to church.
This week he showed his faith to us once again by asking us for another blessing. He's been passing through some depression and this is why he's been willing to change his life for something I honestly believe, he knows is the best for him. This week we'll be working with him to just get some lessons with him solo, and set a goal for baptism, because honestly, he's ready and willing.
That's it, and with transfers being this week I still hope that Elder Hone and I will get one more transfer together, because I believe that we have had success these last few weeks, but as I know, it's not my will but the Lord's will.
Thanks for everything!
- Ian
Well it has been quite a week, with quite a few amazing experiences, one that was really powerful.
One of the investigators that we are currently working with is the son of another investigator, his name is Damián Altimira. Only just recently after months of hearing of the church and of all we do, he has come to us and with real intent looked forward to baptism and being a part of the church. One of the ways I know this is that our first real lesson with him was him asking us to come over to give him a blessing of health. It was amazing to hear that he was willing to be humble and do that. After that he started coming to church activities and as well as coming to church.
This week he showed his faith to us once again by asking us for another blessing. He's been passing through some depression and this is why he's been willing to change his life for something I honestly believe, he knows is the best for him. This week we'll be working with him to just get some lessons with him solo, and set a goal for baptism, because honestly, he's ready and willing.
That's it, and with transfers being this week I still hope that Elder Hone and I will get one more transfer together, because I believe that we have had success these last few weeks, but as I know, it's not my will but the Lord's will.
Thanks for everything!
- Ian
July 19, 2010
What a week, what a week, what a week!
This was a very exciting week, with success being thrown at us at every corner, every minute, every... wow... it was awesome.
This week we worked extremely hard because we are now coming up on the end of the transfer (AGAIN!!!) so we wanted to make sure we could finish it off incredible. The first thing is we placed a baptismal date with a sister of a sister in the ward (Sis. Martinez) and it was awesome. She had given us a date before of....drum roll please.... Dec. 8... but that was way to far away and the fact is, is that she's been ready for a long time and doesn't need to wait any longer, and we told her that. (She's been investigating the church for 12 yrs now.) However, we had an awesome lesson with her Monday night, in which, we talked about baptism in specifiacally. The blessings she can receive for her and her son, the power that it brings because of Christ's Atonement, the cleansing power, etc. and committed her to the 7th of August!!! We also got her to come to church with us for the first time EVER!!!
Another cool thing that happened is that, well, just recently, I was asked to teach my district about CH. 11 in Preach My Gospel, Committments. I was honestly scared at first, obviously because I had to take 20-25 min. teaching in spanish about something that I honestly am fairly new to. But it all came out perfectly because I had prepared, and written well enough in spanish that I could understand my notes and speak them to the members of my district.
Finally, I HAVE A WEEK TILL I REACH 6 MONTHS!!!! Wow has the time flown!
In answer to how the temple is like the Emerald City, I honestly think it is a place where everyone truly can be of one heart and one mind, a place of true Zion. I remember thinking several times when I attended, "We are clearly two different people, but, we are here with the same purpose, with the same love we have for our fellow brethren and sisters." I say this in the sense because while there where different people with different occupations in the Emerald City, they all united all felt united, and all loved everyone. I think that is the way it could be.
Well hope all goes well and love y'all!!!
-Ian
This was a very exciting week, with success being thrown at us at every corner, every minute, every... wow... it was awesome.
This week we worked extremely hard because we are now coming up on the end of the transfer (AGAIN!!!) so we wanted to make sure we could finish it off incredible. The first thing is we placed a baptismal date with a sister of a sister in the ward (Sis. Martinez) and it was awesome. She had given us a date before of....drum roll please.... Dec. 8... but that was way to far away and the fact is, is that she's been ready for a long time and doesn't need to wait any longer, and we told her that. (She's been investigating the church for 12 yrs now.) However, we had an awesome lesson with her Monday night, in which, we talked about baptism in specifiacally. The blessings she can receive for her and her son, the power that it brings because of Christ's Atonement, the cleansing power, etc. and committed her to the 7th of August!!! We also got her to come to church with us for the first time EVER!!!
Another cool thing that happened is that, well, just recently, I was asked to teach my district about CH. 11 in Preach My Gospel, Committments. I was honestly scared at first, obviously because I had to take 20-25 min. teaching in spanish about something that I honestly am fairly new to. But it all came out perfectly because I had prepared, and written well enough in spanish that I could understand my notes and speak them to the members of my district.
Finally, I HAVE A WEEK TILL I REACH 6 MONTHS!!!! Wow has the time flown!
In answer to how the temple is like the Emerald City, I honestly think it is a place where everyone truly can be of one heart and one mind, a place of true Zion. I remember thinking several times when I attended, "We are clearly two different people, but, we are here with the same purpose, with the same love we have for our fellow brethren and sisters." I say this in the sense because while there where different people with different occupations in the Emerald City, they all united all felt united, and all loved everyone. I think that is the way it could be.
Well hope all goes well and love y'all!!!
-Ian
July 12, 2010
Congrats and kudos to Ellie!!! It's fantastic that she did so well, and I hope the bronchitis passes so she can continue to play. Also, good luck to the rest of the family with the sickness, I hope and pray all will get better and continue on.
This week was largely focused on the Zone Conference, and President Salas.
The conference was interesting to say the least, with a the First Presidency and the Brethren announcing new changes to Missionary Work world wide. Starting now missions are going to have less zone confereces, less mission president interviews, and more time to work with the Mission President on a daily basis. The Brethren want the missions and missionaries to start thinking in a month to month basis, not transfer to transfer, so that the missionaries can focus on having baptismal goals for months, not trasfers. As well, the Mission President will be in charge of being the Head Teacher for the mission, going on exchanges more often with the missionaries and providing workshops for District and Zone leaders.
This is big especially since it also sounds like they'll be foucsing on re-teaching missionaries how to use the principles of Preach My Gospel more effectively as well.
Now about Pres. Salas. He is a very funny man with a very clear, honest, and sincere purpose. He wants us all to work, but more than anything, he wants the mission to be one, to be united. He wants to be one with the missionaries, not some high athority figure, truly representing the priniciple of "He that is greatest among you, let him be your servant..."
Sister Salas is also a great woman as well, telling me after asking me a whole bunch of health questions that if I am having a hard time with asthma during the day to NOT push myself and if I need to, take a rest, especially when it's cold and the weather changes. Pres. Salas even told E' Hone (Who, btw, has lost over 100 lbs. throughout his mission and now has some weird skin problems, largely indents in his skin that hurt every now and then) that if he needs to, he can take a day off and go to a doctor in Córdoba Capital. These two are very concerned for the missionaries, even with a ton of the missionaries after the conference thinking, "These are no President and Sister Olsen." Overall it was a great time with a TON of laughs during the conference, especially when their 14 yrs. old son came in and said in perfect english "Sup?"
To answer your questions, yes we continue to work and work hard, being obedient and having fun while doing so.
Thanks for the extra money a few weeks ago, I hope that wasn't a problem and I'll try to ask for that as little as possible. Also thanks for the pictures of Wilbur and Snowflake and Ellie's triumphant victory.
Love y'all!!
-Ian
This week was largely focused on the Zone Conference, and President Salas.
The conference was interesting to say the least, with a the First Presidency and the Brethren announcing new changes to Missionary Work world wide. Starting now missions are going to have less zone confereces, less mission president interviews, and more time to work with the Mission President on a daily basis. The Brethren want the missions and missionaries to start thinking in a month to month basis, not transfer to transfer, so that the missionaries can focus on having baptismal goals for months, not trasfers. As well, the Mission President will be in charge of being the Head Teacher for the mission, going on exchanges more often with the missionaries and providing workshops for District and Zone leaders.
This is big especially since it also sounds like they'll be foucsing on re-teaching missionaries how to use the principles of Preach My Gospel more effectively as well.
Now about Pres. Salas. He is a very funny man with a very clear, honest, and sincere purpose. He wants us all to work, but more than anything, he wants the mission to be one, to be united. He wants to be one with the missionaries, not some high athority figure, truly representing the priniciple of "He that is greatest among you, let him be your servant..."
Sister Salas is also a great woman as well, telling me after asking me a whole bunch of health questions that if I am having a hard time with asthma during the day to NOT push myself and if I need to, take a rest, especially when it's cold and the weather changes. Pres. Salas even told E' Hone (Who, btw, has lost over 100 lbs. throughout his mission and now has some weird skin problems, largely indents in his skin that hurt every now and then) that if he needs to, he can take a day off and go to a doctor in Córdoba Capital. These two are very concerned for the missionaries, even with a ton of the missionaries after the conference thinking, "These are no President and Sister Olsen." Overall it was a great time with a TON of laughs during the conference, especially when their 14 yrs. old son came in and said in perfect english "Sup?"
To answer your questions, yes we continue to work and work hard, being obedient and having fun while doing so.
Thanks for the extra money a few weeks ago, I hope that wasn't a problem and I'll try to ask for that as little as possible. Also thanks for the pictures of Wilbur and Snowflake and Ellie's triumphant victory.
Love y'all!!
-Ian
July 5, 2010
Haha, actually Elder Hone has a friend here, Mateo, that has done all that stuff for him, he's even had him request me for a friend.
Love y'all and thanks for everything.
-Ian
Well it was a pretty intense week, working more with Alberto, the new president (whom we get to meet on Thursday,) finding and contacting here in Cosquin, and as well.... Argentina getting ABSOLUTELY stompped by Germany.
Also a big congrats to Maggie for finishing the Book of Mormon, it truly is the most powerful books in the world. I can't wait to finish it again a few times during my mission, maybe even in Spanish (I've made it past the Isaiah chapters in Spanish!!)
Overall it has been quite a quiet week, but I woke up and screamed in joy to Elder Hone the day Luke entered the MTC, so hip-hip hooray again!!!
Love y'all and thanks for everything.
-Ian
June 28, 2010
Oh yeah... sorry for forgetting to say happy birthday, but I'll make it up to you by sending some more pictures of... me! cause there are not many that I have sent.
Well... this area is pretty awesome, and we do already have a golden investigator. His name is Alberto. He has everything ready right now except... that they can't get divorce papers right now for some odd reason so he can marry the member he is currently living with. Other than that he truly is golden. His son, who apparently wasn't listening before, asked that we come over so he can hear more, so that was awesome.
It's a very... VERY calm area, Cosquin is even titled "the Vacation of the Mission." I thought that was dumb at first untill I thought back on Crucero.
It was a very stressful area even with some of the success we were having. I remeber that last week I was there, I was just physically sick because of how stressed I was, and the realtionship I had with E' Holbrook had finally broken apart for some odd reason. I was ready to leave the mission again because I just didn't like feeling that stressed.
Here however, E' Hone has already taught me something big. That I need to have fun doing this. If I'm just so stressed on the work, I will fall apart. So we've made sure to have fun this entire time while working and I already feel TONS better. We have a great relationship already and he declared me as one of his 3 companion friends (apparently there's a belief that you will only have 3 friend companions your entire mission.)
I've also finally learned more about the dark side of this mission. Córdoba is the LOWEST baptizing mission in all of South America, because it is the most European of them all, and that the norm of baptisims are 3. I've also learned about the Elders in the mission which aren't doing to good right now, in one way or another. For instance, we've got a pedifile in our district... who became a pedifile during the mission. They've had tons of emergency transfers just in the last month.... it's insane. But I know, that as long as I keep doing what I'm supposed to be doing and not slacking off, not focusing on myself, it'll all come through.
Anyways, some bright light of this conversation, Luke is going to be missionary this week!!!!!! I can't wait to hear from him and his experiences. I know that he will honestly be awesome and that whoever meets him will have their life changed in one way or another.
We also get our new president this week so we'll see how it all comes together.
Ciao!!!
Well... this area is pretty awesome, and we do already have a golden investigator. His name is Alberto. He has everything ready right now except... that they can't get divorce papers right now for some odd reason so he can marry the member he is currently living with. Other than that he truly is golden. His son, who apparently wasn't listening before, asked that we come over so he can hear more, so that was awesome.
It's a very... VERY calm area, Cosquin is even titled "the Vacation of the Mission." I thought that was dumb at first untill I thought back on Crucero.
It was a very stressful area even with some of the success we were having. I remeber that last week I was there, I was just physically sick because of how stressed I was, and the realtionship I had with E' Holbrook had finally broken apart for some odd reason. I was ready to leave the mission again because I just didn't like feeling that stressed.
Here however, E' Hone has already taught me something big. That I need to have fun doing this. If I'm just so stressed on the work, I will fall apart. So we've made sure to have fun this entire time while working and I already feel TONS better. We have a great relationship already and he declared me as one of his 3 companion friends (apparently there's a belief that you will only have 3 friend companions your entire mission.)
I've also finally learned more about the dark side of this mission. Córdoba is the LOWEST baptizing mission in all of South America, because it is the most European of them all, and that the norm of baptisims are 3. I've also learned about the Elders in the mission which aren't doing to good right now, in one way or another. For instance, we've got a pedifile in our district... who became a pedifile during the mission. They've had tons of emergency transfers just in the last month.... it's insane. But I know, that as long as I keep doing what I'm supposed to be doing and not slacking off, not focusing on myself, it'll all come through.
Anyways, some bright light of this conversation, Luke is going to be missionary this week!!!!!! I can't wait to hear from him and his experiences. I know that he will honestly be awesome and that whoever meets him will have their life changed in one way or another.
We also get our new president this week so we'll see how it all comes together.
Ciao!!!
June 21, 2010
TRANSFERED!!!!!!!
I have been Transfered! woot woot!!! oh yeah!! I am now in an area called Cosquin (Ko-s-kin) with my new companion......Elder Hone from Denver, CO. I don't have much information on anything about the area.... but there are MOUNTAINS!!!!!!
Largely this week, because I don't have much to say, I'll just answer those questions.
If you could send me some more pills that would be great. We do have a fridge and a freezer, but we don't have bisquic or hamburger helper. If you want to send ANYTHING through the mail, inhaler food... anything, send it with the note "Missionary Supplies" this is what E' Holbrook's mother did and nothing was broken into. I think I also left something on the board in the kitchen with how to send stuff. The Ipod rule, which he just talked with our zone about a few weeks ago, is that it can't have a screen in which you can watch movies, so like you could send one of those older 1 GB mp3 players and they would work just fine... but please don't stress.
I did fall into illness last week, but nothing too serious. Also, the mission did get me an inhaler with medicine, so I think I'm okay there. Benadryl is still the biggest helper.
I do have a request.... not sure how big it is, but if you could but like $75 more dollars in my savings account that would be great, if not, i'll be good.
And about the soup thing.... The soups here are AMAZING!!!! They are all cream based so they're way good.
The asthma thing is still hindering a bit, but more than anything I can still work, and fortunately for me and him, Elder Hone has asthma too, so we both know how to work with it all.
Anyways, talk to y'all later... from my NEW area!
-Ian
I have been Transfered! woot woot!!! oh yeah!! I am now in an area called Cosquin (Ko-s-kin) with my new companion......Elder Hone from Denver, CO. I don't have much information on anything about the area.... but there are MOUNTAINS!!!!!!
Largely this week, because I don't have much to say, I'll just answer those questions.
If you could send me some more pills that would be great. We do have a fridge and a freezer, but we don't have bisquic or hamburger helper. If you want to send ANYTHING through the mail, inhaler food... anything, send it with the note "Missionary Supplies" this is what E' Holbrook's mother did and nothing was broken into. I think I also left something on the board in the kitchen with how to send stuff. The Ipod rule, which he just talked with our zone about a few weeks ago, is that it can't have a screen in which you can watch movies, so like you could send one of those older 1 GB mp3 players and they would work just fine... but please don't stress.
I did fall into illness last week, but nothing too serious. Also, the mission did get me an inhaler with medicine, so I think I'm okay there. Benadryl is still the biggest helper.
I do have a request.... not sure how big it is, but if you could but like $75 more dollars in my savings account that would be great, if not, i'll be good.
And about the soup thing.... The soups here are AMAZING!!!! They are all cream based so they're way good.
The asthma thing is still hindering a bit, but more than anything I can still work, and fortunately for me and him, Elder Hone has asthma too, so we both know how to work with it all.
Anyways, talk to y'all later... from my NEW area!
-Ian
June 14, 2010
I don't even know what to say to this... especially since our trek ended after the first day.
First thing that came to mind when I read this was "You didn't know that Mitch likes to sit out on things like this?"
This last week was a little hard, Tuesday started with a big storm leaving most of the streets in our area submurged or thick mud, so it made it hard to get into anyone's house, but we did find on this day a woman named Roxana and her daugther Maria. We have high hopes for them so I'll keep you up on that. Wendsday we couldn't get any lessons, Thursday we had exchanges again and I got to work with Elder Fontes, who made for lunch an AMAZING biscuits and gravy (fyi, he has had two companions from southern usa, hence the reason he knew how to make it,) Friday it was just solid cold but we got quite a bit of work done, especially since we got to have a lesson with Patricia and Silvio that night (more on this later,) and then Saturday was the first match for Argentina, and because of this, basically any and all missionaries were told to stay in their pensions during the match and given a good luck for after to find anyone (Especially since they won! (yay!!)) and then Sunday... no one came to church.
Our lesson with Patricia was about the changing power of the Atonement and how it can effect their lives. It was a very powerful lesson, especially since we talked about the law of Chastity with them and after we got a firm "We'll think about it" from them. I even did a part, telling a story of how the Atonement has helped me.
This week is the last of the Transfer, and now every one in our pension is sick and with another game coming this week things will probably continue to be hard to work, but we will be working nonetheless.
President Olsen also only has a few weeks left, he'll be heading our July 1st so we'll probably be having a HUGE mission conference for this, maybe even an Apostle will come.
Love y'all!!!
-Ian
First thing that came to mind when I read this was "You didn't know that Mitch likes to sit out on things like this?"
This last week was a little hard, Tuesday started with a big storm leaving most of the streets in our area submurged or thick mud, so it made it hard to get into anyone's house, but we did find on this day a woman named Roxana and her daugther Maria. We have high hopes for them so I'll keep you up on that. Wendsday we couldn't get any lessons, Thursday we had exchanges again and I got to work with Elder Fontes, who made for lunch an AMAZING biscuits and gravy (fyi, he has had two companions from southern usa, hence the reason he knew how to make it,) Friday it was just solid cold but we got quite a bit of work done, especially since we got to have a lesson with Patricia and Silvio that night (more on this later,) and then Saturday was the first match for Argentina, and because of this, basically any and all missionaries were told to stay in their pensions during the match and given a good luck for after to find anyone (Especially since they won! (yay!!)) and then Sunday... no one came to church.
Our lesson with Patricia was about the changing power of the Atonement and how it can effect their lives. It was a very powerful lesson, especially since we talked about the law of Chastity with them and after we got a firm "We'll think about it" from them. I even did a part, telling a story of how the Atonement has helped me.
This week is the last of the Transfer, and now every one in our pension is sick and with another game coming this week things will probably continue to be hard to work, but we will be working nonetheless.
President Olsen also only has a few weeks left, he'll be heading our July 1st so we'll probably be having a HUGE mission conference for this, maybe even an Apostle will come.
Love y'all!!!
-Ian
June 7, 2010
Good luck with the trek!!! K don't have much time today, but there are two main things:
Last week we had Zone Conference, and it was the last time we'd see, hear, and be interviewed by President Olsen before President Salas comes in on July 1st. In my interview, he actually encouraged me to keep writing in my journal, so I guess I'll have a a lot more to but into the "mission journal" when I get home. He also gave me a blessing in which he blessed me with open lungs, so we'll see how that goes. He ended the conference by exhorting us to study our own personal Plan of Salvation, our Patriarchal Blessings.
Patricia and Silvio are continuing to progress, with them starting to now pray as a family and Patricia came to Church once again this week. They both said that they miss the classes, and are planning to start coming earlier again, most of the time they make it to Sacrament meeting.
Well, two weeks till transfers, and it's likely that I will be staying and E' Holbrook will be going, but I'll inform y'all when this passes. Spanish continues to get better, I can now carry a regular conversation with people, but I'm still working on a stronger vocabulary.
I've heard of P90X, it apparently was huge, with quite a few of the missionaries that were with me at the MTC, the same ones that are here with me now, having done it and giving high praise to it all.
Health: It is getting better, I'm gonna be getting more benadryl this week, it does seem to be helping the most. I think though that I'll be having troubles with it at the ends of weeks, because I'm pushing myself so hard to work with all my strength, so I guess it's kinda comforting to know that I want to collapse by Monday.
World Cup: THIS WEEK!!!!! Cheer for Argentina!!! We were informed today that during Argentina's games to stay in our pensions and plan, study, or have district meetings. Nevertheless, we are all excited. I'm a little sad that I'll miss it this year, but the next time it comes around, I do plan to be cheering and screaming more.
Love Y'all!!!
-Ian
Oh you also asked me in one of your letters what to put in the emails and what to put in letters. Keep putting things like sports, radio, BSA, movies, updates like that in the mail, and any and all family related things in the email. If you also have any questions if I want packages and what to send in packages and such, just ask me, but I'm all good for now... really. They take forever to get here and get searched pretty often so I don't want you all to worry about sending anything that has a pretty high value.
love ya
Last week we had Zone Conference, and it was the last time we'd see, hear, and be interviewed by President Olsen before President Salas comes in on July 1st. In my interview, he actually encouraged me to keep writing in my journal, so I guess I'll have a a lot more to but into the "mission journal" when I get home. He also gave me a blessing in which he blessed me with open lungs, so we'll see how that goes. He ended the conference by exhorting us to study our own personal Plan of Salvation, our Patriarchal Blessings.
Patricia and Silvio are continuing to progress, with them starting to now pray as a family and Patricia came to Church once again this week. They both said that they miss the classes, and are planning to start coming earlier again, most of the time they make it to Sacrament meeting.
Well, two weeks till transfers, and it's likely that I will be staying and E' Holbrook will be going, but I'll inform y'all when this passes. Spanish continues to get better, I can now carry a regular conversation with people, but I'm still working on a stronger vocabulary.
I've heard of P90X, it apparently was huge, with quite a few of the missionaries that were with me at the MTC, the same ones that are here with me now, having done it and giving high praise to it all.
Health: It is getting better, I'm gonna be getting more benadryl this week, it does seem to be helping the most. I think though that I'll be having troubles with it at the ends of weeks, because I'm pushing myself so hard to work with all my strength, so I guess it's kinda comforting to know that I want to collapse by Monday.
World Cup: THIS WEEK!!!!! Cheer for Argentina!!! We were informed today that during Argentina's games to stay in our pensions and plan, study, or have district meetings. Nevertheless, we are all excited. I'm a little sad that I'll miss it this year, but the next time it comes around, I do plan to be cheering and screaming more.
Love Y'all!!!
-Ian
Oh you also asked me in one of your letters what to put in the emails and what to put in letters. Keep putting things like sports, radio, BSA, movies, updates like that in the mail, and any and all family related things in the email. If you also have any questions if I want packages and what to send in packages and such, just ask me, but I'm all good for now... really. They take forever to get here and get searched pretty often so I don't want you all to worry about sending anything that has a pretty high value.
love ya
Monday, May 31, 2010
May 31, 2010
Congrats to Mags!!!! And tell her thanks for the email, I am glad I could be a help.
As well a congrats to Jessica
Well I sure am glad that all is going good at home.
Updates for the week:
Well the festivities of the 25th of May were quite awesome, we partied (as hard as missionaries can party) with the branch on that day and also ate a quite delicious sandwich, called Choripan. Imagine getting two small, but thick, bratwursts, and putting them on a sandwich and that's really about it, lettuce, tomato, mayo, a mustard. pretty simple. We also on the 24th went to the ward party for the 25th with the missionaries that work in Alta Gracia, and ate a food called Locro. It's intersting... and considering that I have had cow stomach now... Locro isn't my favorite thing actually.
We also while with a family in the branch watched as the Argentina soccer team left for South Africa, and it was quite a party just in that house itself.
Health Update:
Well... the temperature of Argentina has been dropping, and with that.... my Asthma has gotten stronger. Won't lie... it scares me at times how easily I can be winded. It's interesting, before... I was never afraid of it. But now that I'm being part of such a big thing, such a grand work, and am always outside, always working, I'm terrified of what could happen. But, as I reflected on the fact that I reached the 4 month mark this last week, I thought of hike in the Narrows. I remebered the fact that it was 24 miles.... kinda like 24 months. But I still remember what Bro. Phil Allen told me at the end: "See, you can do hard things." I know I can do this work, I have found myself humbled by this and praying and pleading more for the Lord's strength to do this. I will continue to press on, and will continue to update. I would be lying and hiding too if I didn't tell you that the desire to go home has passed through quite often because of this.
Patricia and Silvio:
They're proving to be harder than ever, but a miracle did happen during one of the lessons this week. I spoke spanish! Not the best, but it worked. Patricia had a question about abuse and I talked to her about Wilbur. How we found him, how he was trusted in my care, and how we got his trust back. I finished it all off by saying there were two things involved in the entire process. The first thing was Time. We know it took quite a while with Wilbur, but in the end, it all worked out. The second, and most important thing, was the Love we gave him. I reminded her that Love is the greatest commandment and showed her how the 10 commandments were all focsed on Love. I know that was a big help for in that moment. The next lesson we had.... didn't go as well. She stopped us from teaching by bombarding us with questions and concerns about the gospel. We had exchanges this week, working with another missionary for a day, and before this lesson, E' Holbrook and E' Fontes went to try and commit them to marriage. They didn't get the commitment, and I think she bombarded us in this lesson cause she thought we were going to try again. It's hard and we are praying very hard that we soften her heart and strengthen her faith.
That's the week, and here are some pictures of the 25th!
I love you all!
--Ian
Sunday, May 30, 2010
May 24, 2010
Oh my gosh.... School is ending already!? Time really has flown, I swear just a month ago I read Mags got asked to Prom. And Yay for her with all the grading problems she has had this year, I can't wait to hear how her next year goes.
A shout for joy for Brother Clark, one of the coolest men I know and even more so, it's way nice to hear about progress in Iraq.
The Asthma problem has lessend a bit (Largely a big thanks to Benadryl, need to give Aunt Terri a big high five for that, it really is a fix-all medicine.)
As for a bit of Cultural news from Argentina, tomorrow is Independence Day for them, and they're celebrating very hard for the fact that it's their Bicenntenial celebration this year. Also... and this is killing me... world cup excitement is building up and up and up, with stores and shops and families all in a buzz about it. It was quite interesting when a family in the branch started asking us who we thought was gonna win, because obivously, they want to hear Argentina, so we said them... and England had a chance. They joked around with us after that and it was pretty funny.
We're also about 3 weeks till winter here so yeah, we're getting pretty cold here and there.
We bundle up pretty good, and our pension is very well insulated so we're good there, but when it comes to washing clothes, it's absolute torture.
Now for the truly important stuff. It was interesting that Aaron gave Seth that advice, cause one thing that I have been starting to work on here is humility. Obedience, as you probably know without a problem, is not hard for me, but then there is humility. In Preach My Gospel, it has an activity where you can rate yourself in several key Christlike attributes and then make a plan to work on ones you need to work on. It was amazing to me that as I began to study this, and started to apply the teachings of the scriptures and of Christ himself to my life, that I have started praying for His aide more often, I've found myself being willing to change things, and lots of other things. I'm grateful for the changing power of His Atonement, cause I know that is what is helping to repent and to change who I am so I can become the missionary that the Lord not only wants, but needs me to be, here in Córdoba.
This week, we also committed Silvio (Patricia´s boyfriend) to baptism. It was a powerful lesson for this one, we watched The Restoration, and after, Silvio poured out his soul to us. They worried about getting married because they haven't seen any progress in their relationship, and don't want to make a mistake with a decision like this. His mother also treats Patricia pretty poorly and he doesn't want to put her in a situation like this. And this, the most important thing of all, he said that he feels like a man whose drowning and is looking for a way to be pulled out. That he's seen us and other missionaries walking around for quite a while, but he felt like now was the time to reach up for help.
We've been waiting for something like this for months now, and we know that it was the Spirit which moved him and Patricia to confess these things to us. They weren't able to go to church this week because they're just so far behind in things because of the accident, which we can really understand, but we are planning on getting them to commit to a date for marriage so that they can have a fixed date for baptism.
Well, those 100 days have passed, and this week I reach the 4 month mark... which if anything this is the scariest thing of all... I'll be home sooner than you know it. In fact, as a sign of the times, Elder Holbrook said to me friday, "Well you have enough time in the mission now, what is the first home cooked meal you want when you get back?" (Word for word there) so yeah... really weird...
Anyways love y'all much
---Ian
Ellie and I were able to catch him while he was still online, so we got to message back and forth. I sent him several pictures of Wilbur, the weather (it actually snowed that day!) and some other pix.
Ellie and I were able to catch him while he was still online, so we got to message back and forth. I sent him several pictures of Wilbur, the weather (it actually snowed that day!) and some other pix.
May 17, 2010
Beat you to the email this week!!!
Well, this week was the first week of this transfer and was quite a challenge.
To start the week off, Patricia and Silvio got into an accident on monday and so it was hard to get in contact with them at all. They're both doing fine now and that is quite a relief.
This week the temperature also dropped, and quite fast. We now are in 19 C weather every morning so I did break out the trench coat. It was pretty heavy at first, but now all is well and I can carry it around without a problem.
And now the really scary thing for the week.
My Asthma has come back, and hit like a train friday. On friday we went and visited Florencia to have lunch with her and Hector. They have a cat, and for the past while, she's been no problem for my allergies, just a few sneezes here and there. But this time was different. By the time we left, I could not breathe anymore, no matter what I tried to do, I could not feel my body inhaling or exhaling. nothing was happening. In other words, yes, I had an asthma attack. Now if I remeber correctly, this is the first one I've had ever, and it was terrifying. We called Sister Olsen and President Olsen to inform them and they told us to get to a doctor asap. We couldn't get to one until Saturday evening. We talked with the Branch President here in El Crucero, and he took us to a doctor and took care of everything. I know have an inhaler which is both for regular and emergency doses. We called the President after all this was taken care of cause they wanted to know the verdict. The verdict was that I should not be walking in the cold. Well as if to make the whole situation a little lighter, President Olsen laughed when I told him that and said "That's not gonna work." I was stunned at first, but after this morning and taking a dose with the inhaler, it looks like all will be fine. I will keep up on this and we'll watch and see how this part of the adventure will turn out.
Well not much happened this week, we weren't able to find anyone to teach this week so we are in a bit of a slump with our numbers.
And now for a question. I still have the speaker that I was gonna use for the Ipod Shuffle.... should I send that back or what, I can keep it for two years, it doesn't cause much weight problems so really what ever you'd like me to do.
Anyways ¡Nos Vemos! (and if you email me while I'm still on I'll get you another email back.)
-Ian
Well, this week was the first week of this transfer and was quite a challenge.
To start the week off, Patricia and Silvio got into an accident on monday and so it was hard to get in contact with them at all. They're both doing fine now and that is quite a relief.
This week the temperature also dropped, and quite fast. We now are in 19 C weather every morning so I did break out the trench coat. It was pretty heavy at first, but now all is well and I can carry it around without a problem.
And now the really scary thing for the week.
My Asthma has come back, and hit like a train friday. On friday we went and visited Florencia to have lunch with her and Hector. They have a cat, and for the past while, she's been no problem for my allergies, just a few sneezes here and there. But this time was different. By the time we left, I could not breathe anymore, no matter what I tried to do, I could not feel my body inhaling or exhaling. nothing was happening. In other words, yes, I had an asthma attack. Now if I remeber correctly, this is the first one I've had ever, and it was terrifying. We called Sister Olsen and President Olsen to inform them and they told us to get to a doctor asap. We couldn't get to one until Saturday evening. We talked with the Branch President here in El Crucero, and he took us to a doctor and took care of everything. I know have an inhaler which is both for regular and emergency doses. We called the President after all this was taken care of cause they wanted to know the verdict. The verdict was that I should not be walking in the cold. Well as if to make the whole situation a little lighter, President Olsen laughed when I told him that and said "That's not gonna work." I was stunned at first, but after this morning and taking a dose with the inhaler, it looks like all will be fine. I will keep up on this and we'll watch and see how this part of the adventure will turn out.
Well not much happened this week, we weren't able to find anyone to teach this week so we are in a bit of a slump with our numbers.
And now for a question. I still have the speaker that I was gonna use for the Ipod Shuffle.... should I send that back or what, I can keep it for two years, it doesn't cause much weight problems so really what ever you'd like me to do.
Anyways ¡Nos Vemos! (and if you email me while I'm still on I'll get you another email back.)
-Ian
May 10, 2010
Well yes we did just talk (And I wasn't the last to finish yesterday.. E' Holbrook went for about 2 hours!!! His family is going to be coming to Argentina the last week of his mission so they were making sure everything was ready.) But aside from that here is the address for his family.
I wasn't worried about being homesick of anything, really, you all hear from me every week and I wanted to hear the lives of those who I don't get to hear from very often.
Anyways, it's another pictures day, and one of them will make you very, very jealous.
Here are some delicious empanadas, for these types, we get our a bottle of lemon juice, and pour it in the tops.
This is our radiator (That scary thing that makes weird sounds that's attatched to the wall) It is gas powered, like our stove, so we do have to use matches or a "lighter," which makes a small electric sparks, to start them.
This is our washing machine. However... it is broken. So we have to wash our clothes by hand. There is also no such thing as a dryer here, so everything is hung to dry, which become a little annoying when garments are needed.
This is our (Mine and Elder Holbrook´s) room. It is pretty nice, but we are still lacking light so we use the window for light, which by the way, the window is kinda inside the house, I'll get another picture of this in a short while. (Sorry, it's a bit outta focus)
and finally
In Argentina, there is a company here called Grido, it is an Ice Cream place, and as you can read on the picture. Yes, we can call and get it Delivered!!! By far, one of the coolest things here, and the Ice Cream is really pretty good. That, and we can get it by the quarter, half, or whole Kilo, so ya, if there's any reason you to come to Argentina, Mom, it's this. Grido also happens to have a store about every 3 blocks here. It's awesome.
Anyways, there is the Report of the week, I hope you can enjoy it.
¡Nos Vemos!
-Ian
May 3, 2010
Congrats to Mags, I hope she gets to continue on doing this, because it's looking like she really has a future in this.
Alrighty... Mother's day. What I'll be doing is calling you at 4-6 PM MY TIME from the church building in Alta Gracia (El Crucero) and I'll call your cell phone, so just be looking. I don't know what the number for the church is though, so... yay? (Of course)
And for the stories of the week:
This week, I came down with a sinus infection (Boo!!!) so I wasn't able to do a whole lot, I worked Monday and Tuesday, and only for a short bit with both, but not Wednesday because my face was in so much pain and I had so little energy that I couldn't do anything.
But on a brighter note, Patricia and her... kinda husband Silvio attended church this week and that was cause for much rejoicing for us. They didn't bring their kids this time, so we're gonna work with them this week to do so. Patricia loved it again and Silvio said he did as well. They also both said that they did feel really good (Super YAY!) so we know the Spirit is working with them right now.
Also for my scripture study "aha!" moment for the week, I am now in Exodus, and it is quite awesome to have actually read the story of Moses. Won't lie, I had moments of "The Ten Commandments" popping into my head, and more frequently, the songs of "The Prince of Egypt" constantly going in out. But the coolest thing of all was reading how Jethro helped Moses to organize the tribes of Israel, especially in the "judging" processes. It was nice to notice how they formed exactly what we have today. Good men judge small groups of their tribe, and if its a big thing, it goes up the chain till it reached Moses. I love that the church really has never changed, even in the Book of Mormon, a huge part of it all is the judges. Anyways, AHA!
I really don't have much to talk about this week, because I'll be calling you, and I can't wait to do so... even though it's only been a month since I last did so. But it will be great to here from Dad this time and from the rest of the motly crew.
¡Nos Vemos!
--QK Ian
Follow up message: Scratch that. I'll be calling the home phone.
Alrighty... Mother's day. What I'll be doing is calling you at 4-6 PM MY TIME from the church building in Alta Gracia (El Crucero) and I'll call your cell phone, so just be looking. I don't know what the number for the church is though, so... yay? (Of course)
And for the stories of the week:
This week, I came down with a sinus infection (Boo!!!) so I wasn't able to do a whole lot, I worked Monday and Tuesday, and only for a short bit with both, but not Wednesday because my face was in so much pain and I had so little energy that I couldn't do anything.
But on a brighter note, Patricia and her... kinda husband Silvio attended church this week and that was cause for much rejoicing for us. They didn't bring their kids this time, so we're gonna work with them this week to do so. Patricia loved it again and Silvio said he did as well. They also both said that they did feel really good (Super YAY!) so we know the Spirit is working with them right now.
Also for my scripture study "aha!" moment for the week, I am now in Exodus, and it is quite awesome to have actually read the story of Moses. Won't lie, I had moments of "The Ten Commandments" popping into my head, and more frequently, the songs of "The Prince of Egypt" constantly going in out. But the coolest thing of all was reading how Jethro helped Moses to organize the tribes of Israel, especially in the "judging" processes. It was nice to notice how they formed exactly what we have today. Good men judge small groups of their tribe, and if its a big thing, it goes up the chain till it reached Moses. I love that the church really has never changed, even in the Book of Mormon, a huge part of it all is the judges. Anyways, AHA!
I really don't have much to talk about this week, because I'll be calling you, and I can't wait to do so... even though it's only been a month since I last did so. But it will be great to here from Dad this time and from the rest of the motly crew.
¡Nos Vemos!
--QK Ian
Follow up message: Scratch that. I'll be calling the home phone.
April 26, 2010
Haha, it is nice to know that Kim and now the entire family has faith in me ;)
This week... won't lie, probably the hardest yet. My odd foot problems have come back and are as tenacious as me, refusing to heal or leave. I also was struck down with a cold, and very few new 'gators'. We weren't able to find Patricia this week, she was super busy so we worked on just finding people. In fact I made 18 contacts/invitations in one day.
I would LOVE to have your letters in the journal, as well as the pictures, that's one thing that I think will help make the memory of it all.
I received two letters this week!!!! I was ecstatic when I got them and read about all the experiences. In one of your letters you did ask if would send written letters with more details... but in all honesty, these emails would be the exact same as my letters.
But this week=PICTURES!!!!!! And I will add descriptions for each one.
That is Florencia, my first baptism. Absolutely golden (Even asking one time if it was a bad thing to pray all the time)
That's me and E' Winger at the MTC
That's the 1A District.
Those are my teachers, Sis. Smith (Served in Paraguay) and Bro Anderson (Dominican Republic)
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From left to right: Elder Trigo(From Buenos Aires,) Elder Holbrook, and Elder Fontes (From close to the areas in which Dad served)
This is a sign in a place we visited call Villa Gral. Belgrano. It's a GERMAN town in Argentina, and there's a beer mug that I'll probably end up getting for Ben which he will love.
Well... Looks like someone is taller than Mags... scary, how's Maggie handling that?
I hope all is going well... I do miss being able to walk bare-foot in a house and a shower.
The food is getting better each day, we actually had a feast with a family, and it was asado, in which we had some terrific meats... it's something that I hope I learn to make to bring to the Viking Feast!!!! (SKOL!!)
I also this week learned something while reading the Old Testament (I started this last week or so). The importance of examples has always been a big part of my life. One story in the Old Testament really proves the importance of examples. Jacob, having heard his brother Esau was coming back, looking for him, started to run away, knowing that if they met, Esau would probably kill him. Esau caught up with him and they both halted. They then embraced. Both brothers had forgiven the other. It is quite a small moment, but there was someone watching it. After having been thown in a pit and sold into Egypt, then meeting those who did it to him a second time, being in a similar position and power as his father, forgave his brothers. For years, I wondered how was it possible that after all they had done to him, how could Joseph forgive his brothers that easily? It makes sense now, and now that I've seen the influence of all my friends and leaders in my life, remebering their examples, their quotes... all that they did, I know that it is the exact same as this.
Just a small testimony, but it's why the Church wants the best of missionaries, to set that example of Christ in the lives of ALL people.
Well, there ya go, hope all goes well!
NOTE:
I sent him pictures from Jessica's baby shower. Both girls were holding babies and Maggie is leaning against a wall, which makes it look like she is shorter than Ellie. (Truth be told, they are quite close in height.)
Monday, April 19, 2010
April 19, 2010
Wow... this has been quite an epic week and congrats as well!!!
Well, the main focus of my letter this week is Patricia fortunately. First and foremost... she has committed to Baptism!!! Patricia is a women that we've been working with for quite a bit. She lives in pretty humble circumstances, in a Barrio (which is also the same word for ward here) named San Juan in which most of this area is pretty small and humble circumstances, but there are still those that take pride in their circumstance.
Any-who, this last tuesday we planned to commit her that day but it wouldn't be an easy day. Most of the day was dark and cold, cloudy, and not very welcoming... like most of the people that day. But we stayed positive because we knew what may take place near the end of the day. When it was time to go to Patricia's, we picked up a member in the area who we asked to help us with this lesson, in which the member would give her conversion and baptism story. This worked well and we continued on by teaching Lesson 3, "The Gospel of Jesus Christ," which is just a really expounded version of AoF 4. We taught her and she took it all well. When the time came to extend the commitment, we did so (obviously.) She gave a small chuckle then said yes. When we extended the commitment, when she accepted it, and a short bit after, the sun broke through the clouds and brought a bit of light and warmth to this day. I know it really doesn't mean much, but it, in a way, testified to me she was honest in her acceptance.
This week we also taught her the 10 Commandments and Sabbath Day. One of the ways that they get money is that they (her family) make a certain bread here and then on either saturday or sunday, would go sit on the side of the highway and try to sell it. On sunday, we waited for her cause she had committed to come to church. When she didn't show up, we called her and didn't get an answer, so we went to look for some other 'gators' to bring to church. On our way back, after not finding anyone, we received a call from her in which Patricia said that wouldn't be able to come, but had decided, with her family, that they would stop doing this so the she AND her family could come to church.
It truly is amazing how much the Lord and the Spirit can work with some one and change what used to be normal for someone. This week we plan to work with her more to prepare her for baptism along with her family.
In a short miraculous story about how the Lord has helped me on my mission so far. I know that one thing that we were all worried about was my desire to play video games... alot, as well as fears of "withdrawls" from not playing them. Fortunately, I've not had any withdrawls yet, because I have been so involved with the work here, so invovled with my studies, so not invovled with my wants and desires. I see this as a my miracle of the mission so far, and know it is a good thing that this is happening. Don't get me wrong now, I'm sure I still have a love for games, but it has not hindered me here at all, especially since I was excited a few days ago to start the old testament. I feel that this has been a blessing and will always look back on it this way.
So now that I have been here 3 weeks, there's another interesting story of things that has happened. Earlier last week, we had power cut off to our pension.... so we had to do quite a few things in the dark. This was caused by first-off, we hadn't paid rent yet, and that the entire city had lost power. Now just acouple of days back it happened again. It's back, but we're trying to figure out why it happened this time.
Anywho, Gnocchi is here but is spelt a little differently ñoquis. It's just as good here and we had it twice this last week.
Well that's really all. How's Lil' Red doing? How's the end of Ellie's last year in elementary school shaping up? Any more mischevious things that Grif has done?
And about music, it's totally fine if you can't get it up here, but it would be awesome to still have something. But don't stress.
¡Nos vemos y buenas suerte! (See ya and good luck!)
---QK E' Asplund
Well, the main focus of my letter this week is Patricia fortunately. First and foremost... she has committed to Baptism!!! Patricia is a women that we've been working with for quite a bit. She lives in pretty humble circumstances, in a Barrio (which is also the same word for ward here) named San Juan in which most of this area is pretty small and humble circumstances, but there are still those that take pride in their circumstance.
Any-who, this last tuesday we planned to commit her that day but it wouldn't be an easy day. Most of the day was dark and cold, cloudy, and not very welcoming... like most of the people that day. But we stayed positive because we knew what may take place near the end of the day. When it was time to go to Patricia's, we picked up a member in the area who we asked to help us with this lesson, in which the member would give her conversion and baptism story. This worked well and we continued on by teaching Lesson 3, "The Gospel of Jesus Christ," which is just a really expounded version of AoF 4. We taught her and she took it all well. When the time came to extend the commitment, we did so (obviously.) She gave a small chuckle then said yes. When we extended the commitment, when she accepted it, and a short bit after, the sun broke through the clouds and brought a bit of light and warmth to this day. I know it really doesn't mean much, but it, in a way, testified to me she was honest in her acceptance.
This week we also taught her the 10 Commandments and Sabbath Day. One of the ways that they get money is that they (her family) make a certain bread here and then on either saturday or sunday, would go sit on the side of the highway and try to sell it. On sunday, we waited for her cause she had committed to come to church. When she didn't show up, we called her and didn't get an answer, so we went to look for some other 'gators' to bring to church. On our way back, after not finding anyone, we received a call from her in which Patricia said that wouldn't be able to come, but had decided, with her family, that they would stop doing this so the she AND her family could come to church.
It truly is amazing how much the Lord and the Spirit can work with some one and change what used to be normal for someone. This week we plan to work with her more to prepare her for baptism along with her family.
In a short miraculous story about how the Lord has helped me on my mission so far. I know that one thing that we were all worried about was my desire to play video games... alot, as well as fears of "withdrawls" from not playing them. Fortunately, I've not had any withdrawls yet, because I have been so involved with the work here, so invovled with my studies, so not invovled with my wants and desires. I see this as a my miracle of the mission so far, and know it is a good thing that this is happening. Don't get me wrong now, I'm sure I still have a love for games, but it has not hindered me here at all, especially since I was excited a few days ago to start the old testament. I feel that this has been a blessing and will always look back on it this way.
So now that I have been here 3 weeks, there's another interesting story of things that has happened. Earlier last week, we had power cut off to our pension.... so we had to do quite a few things in the dark. This was caused by first-off, we hadn't paid rent yet, and that the entire city had lost power. Now just acouple of days back it happened again. It's back, but we're trying to figure out why it happened this time.
Anywho, Gnocchi is here but is spelt a little differently ñoquis. It's just as good here and we had it twice this last week.
Well that's really all. How's Lil' Red doing? How's the end of Ellie's last year in elementary school shaping up? Any more mischevious things that Grif has done?
And about music, it's totally fine if you can't get it up here, but it would be awesome to still have something. But don't stress.
¡Nos vemos y buenas suerte! (See ya and good luck!)
---QK E' Asplund
Monday, April 12, 2010
April 12, 2010
I did have it in my carry-on.... the thing was that I had to put my carry-on on as regular luggage so yeah... well... if you can just find a ipod shuffle that will work. Also... odd as it sounds, the Sons of Provo soundtrack is allowed.... weird right?
So to answer the freaky question I've two experiences one back at the home and one while tracting. The home one is sad and silly, but we had a moth in the room so I was trying to remove/kill it. It started flying near our lightbulb, and I don´t really know what happened exactly, but i went to kill it with my eagles shirt (Mcnabb is gone!) and after that... there wasn't a lightbulb, a moth, and a lot of ashes... and a black spot on the cieling... which we believe to be the moth. The Freaky tracting story was only that two drunk men came and talked to us and they had a lot of cats.... that´s it really.
Well Florencia was married, baptized, and confirmed this weekend and it all worked perfectly so yeah. We did get an 'gator' (investigator) to come to church this week and see the confirmation, so we have a new progressing investigator named Patricia.
The greatest thing I learned so far was from our zone conference this weekend. E' Holbrook told me to come in with a question, so I did. Over the last few weeks I've felt like I haven´t been praying as hard or effectively as I should be. At the zone conference, Pres. Olsen felt inspired to talk about prayer and said in his lesson that we should pray at least a few times a week to our Father out loud because prayer is a two-way conversation. I know that was the answer that I needed and have started to do that now.
Yes... showers are how Dad described them... one room... tile... and uncontrolable water temperature.
Some more info about the mish. Here... we don't knock on a door very often. We stand outside the gates of the houses, becaue over 80% of the houses have lock and key, tall, gates, and clap. It's kinda cool actually, especially when they are obviously outside and they hide, good times.
I have found my favorite munchie food here, outside of all the other fantastic stuff here like ñoquis, empanadas, steak, and lots of bread and pasta. It´s a bakery item called a Criollos (Cree-o-shóws.) They're small, square, little biscuits that are like pilsburry grands biscuits in the fact that you can peel them apart.
Another thing is that dogs are EVERYWHERE, they are like birds and seagulls in utah, they just roam the streets. All of them are not neutered as well... so we've seen some pretty crazy things.
Anything about Dad´s mission and also if it´s possible, there's a member here who's way interested in Lacrosse and people want more pics of the family. If you just send them as attatchements, I can pull them off and put them on my camera.
Tracting is getting better, it looks like I'm losing a little bit of weight and it's not as tiring anymore. E' Holbrook and I are getting along just fine (We both freaked out when we saw the Avatar: The Last Airbender movie poster,) which I do hope that someone sees, buys... something like that. Well, my hour is about up so I will talk with y'all later, I haven't received any letters of any sort yet, but things can happen.
Tracting is getting better, it looks like I'm losing a little bit of weight and it's not as tiring anymore. E' Holbrook and I are getting along just fine (We both freaked out when we saw the Avatar: The Last Airbender movie poster,) which I do hope that someone sees, buys... something like that. Well, my hour is about up so I will talk with y'all later, I haven't received any letters of any sort yet, but things can happen.
If you do end up being able to send a Shuffle, or any mp3 or music player, write on the package "Missionary Supplies" they reminded us of that today.
¡Cíao! -QK E' Ian
April 5, 2010
Yeah!!! Go Eagles!!! I knew that they would want to do that, as would the entire Philly community. Well as for me, I cannot believe where I am still. I'm in a city south of Córdoba called Alta Gracia, and serve specifically in the are El Crucero. The members are nice, and have provided some great food. One of them was especially interested that I played Lacrosse and looked it up. He came over during conference and was totally excited by it all. Anywho, in spiritual matters, we have a wedding and baptism this week for a woman named Florencia. She is being married to a member named Hector this week on the 9th, and she will be baptized the 10th. My new companion is Elder Holbrook from Lehi. We also room with two native-ish elders. One is named Elder Trigo, the other Elder Fontes. Elder Fontes is from Uruguay and wants to know where Dad served specifically and when.
I got to meet some of the other Elders in our zone (Córdoba South) and they actually had me sing a bit of a song for them while my comp played his guitar... they enjoyed it quite a bit.
So yeah I got to view the last 3 sessions of conference in English cause the first two we didn´t have anyone to set-up the english transmission. And we did get to go past curfew and also sleep in a little (so we could have the full 8 hours that we need) I loved it all, especially Pres Uchtdorf´s in priesthood session about Patience.
Another thing, one of my bags was stolen from...the one that had the Ipod, plus the cord with it. Nothing else was stolen. I was wondering though if I could have another sent to me with similar songs, now that I know what I can and can´t listen to. I can listen to Motab, and church stuff, but I can listen to others like all A capella (Vocal Point, Moosebutter) and instrumental, Disney, soundtrack (Lord of the Rings, Star wars, my PLAY cd) and anything that is good (Like "my hero" by paramore) if you can send me one yay, if not it´s all good...with the power cord of course. If you do send it, make sure to put a list of the contents on it.
The Rest of our district did arrive this wed. but none are in my current district or zone. I learned a bit about the weather here, there´s two seasons, the rainy, and the dry. I got here as the rainy was ending, but it still started pouring on Friday. OH and a funny thing, our plug converter didn´t even need the other extension part, it works just fine by itself.
Well, just keep me updated on everything, the salvage of Lil´ Red as well.
Thanks Mom!
Notes:
- Donovan McNabb, the quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles, was traded to their rival, the Redskins.
- As for the music, I am not sending him an iPod shuffle with Paramore on it!
- Lil' Red is the kids' car (pretty much Ian's since no one else drives) and it was involved in an accident.
March 22, 2010
Well here's the updates for this week:
The 24\7 spanish didn't go so well... the first day yeah, but that was about it. we're all still working hard at it, so we aren't giving up yet.
We got our flight plans and we do leave on march 29th, we leave slc to atl at 1215 and arrive at 535, and then we leave at 8 from atl to go to buenos aires airport (yay) so either in the morning or at around 3 here the family will be receiving one call, if you could get christ there to that would rock.
Hosting wasn't too bad, but there were so few missionaries coming in that i didn't get to help. And finally elder quentin l. cook was our devotional speaker this week, it was so awesome. i have the notes and i'll be sending them to you in mail. and speaking of mail, i don't need stamps at the moment, but i will be needing more.
thanks. ¡Adiós y me da suerte! ¡Les quiero mucho! QK Ian
Note:
He sent this as I was online writing mine. In fact, it came through and I was able to type quickly to him that we had something going through the mail for him. He responded within seconds with another email, and I responded back a quick "love you!" It was a great few minutes.
Note:
He sent this as I was online writing mine. In fact, it came through and I was able to type quickly to him that we had something going through the mail for him. He responded within seconds with another email, and I responded back a quick "love you!" It was a great few minutes.
Monday, March 15, 2010
March 15, 2010
Yeah, i don't have much time, and I'm gonna be taking Dad's advice on the email next week, also, Let grandma Asplund know that I'm recieving her letters and to keep sending them. So yeah, I can't tell you how happy I am to here about ellie, it was really scary last thursday and praying for her all day... but fortunately cause of the many prayers that were given for her in the temple and in my district, i knew it would all work out.
Well this week i get the opportunity to host, just like i was hosted when you left me here. I can't wait, we also maybe getting our travel plans this week so, fingers crossed!!!! There's only one thing I need this week, and that is more ties, my yellow one fell-apart, and my blue italy one is starting. I would like to have a big bag of Cooler Ranch doritos, but really not much else. Well about ready to go out and finally do what I've been trained to do, YES!!! This week we are starting to talk 24/7 in spanish, and I'm one of the most exctied about it. Well, that 's about it for all!! I love ya, and can't wait to here more. Oh and thanks for the Paper plates, That was a really nice thing to get. --Ian
Notes:
- Ellie had surgery on her mouth last week where they had to cut into her palate and bracket a tooth that was growing the wrong way. (In a few weeks they will attach a chain and we will begin cranking it down [insert grown here] over time.) Her recovery is slow and painful but she is doing well.
Monday, March 8, 2010
March 8, 2010
Yes, only Griffin. Well, not only am I praying for Ellie, but I´ve got my entitre district praying for her, and her name is also going through out the entire temple. So this morning after our P-Day temple trip, Elder Winger and I were talking, and we realized how little time we have here left at the MTC, in fact, 3 weeks. Our district is also now the oldest district in our branch. Over the last few weeks, I do admit, that I have forgotten to talk about the Characters that I am around every day so here we go. 1st is Elder Lazarte. He´s from Arkansas, and loves fishing like you´ve never seen anyone love fishing. 2nd is his companion Elder McClellan, who is from Houston Texas, and he´s a true texan, played football, big...everything, except and accent. Next there is Elder Adams from Texas as well. To Describe him think of Simon from firefly... that is Elder Adams, refined. He also happens to look a lot like Super-Man... There´s his companion Elder Gwynn. He´s from Logan, and is a very funny guy. He is super fast, and also is a pure farm boy, and can go all red-neck with funny jokes and everything. Dang I´m almost outta time... well, I love you all, and ya, I can´t wait for Conference. ¡¡Les quiero muchisimo!! --Élder Asplund
Notes:
Notes:
- The "Yes, only Griffin" refers to a story I told him. On Saturday, while going to a store to get shoes for Maggie's ballroom class, Griffin stood in between Ellie and I, put his arms around our shoulders and said, "So, ladies. Where are we off to?" Only Griffin.
Monday, March 1, 2010
March 1, 2010
I love that you are making a goal to go the temple every saturday, with the chance I've had here to go every monday, my mind has been clearer and I've had tons of revelations and guidance by the spirit. One, for example, happened last week. Elder Winger and I decided after the Endowment session, we'd go participate in Sealings. The man who was doing the sealings was Neal A. Lambert, and man, did he have a vigor and love for what he was called to do. I got to be proxy for some of the child to parent sealings, and... I can't believe what happened. Every one that I participated in, I could feel, and one point I swear hear, the thanks of every single person who was sealed to their family forever. Put aside the fact that it was the first time I had heard the sealing prayer, for both couples and entire families, I just can not describe what happened, I have learned, so so much there, that I can't wait to go back every week, and one thing that also happened, because i've now felt the power of the temple in it's entirety, I have a goal, to go through with a, hopefully, future wife.
Well.... that's really about it for me, and also, there's one thing I would like to ask you to see if you can get a missionary mall: there's a bag there, with the brand of mountaineer or something like that, it's small, and is kinda green. I would really like it because the bags that they provide here aren't really the best, especially the shoulder bags. So yeah... if you can otherwise, I'm not home sick cause of all the pics and stories so far, and am coping well. AND I've got the cleanest desk and closest in my room!!! ---Ian
Well.... that's really about it for me, and also, there's one thing I would like to ask you to see if you can get a missionary mall: there's a bag there, with the brand of mountaineer or something like that, it's small, and is kinda green. I would really like it because the bags that they provide here aren't really the best, especially the shoulder bags. So yeah... if you can otherwise, I'm not home sick cause of all the pics and stories so far, and am coping well. AND I've got the cleanest desk and closest in my room!!! ---Ian
February 22, 2010
U S A!!! Sorry had to get that out first. I'm so glad to hear all is goin' well that a new job opportunity is available for the family. Also I need to apologize about the whole email thing... I haven't been able to receive emails, only send, so I just read about 10 emails that I didn't know I had.
If you can't find my other journal that's fine, I can get one here at the book store.... Luke is going to the Argentina, Buenos Aires mission, I just know it. Now on a report on the last week, we got to teach the 2nd lesson quite a few times last week and I'm so happy that I'm understanding how to teach better and better every time. One idea I just had was maybe you guys could read through Predicad Mi Evangelio (Preach My Gospel) as a family. It's so inspirational, and it could also be something you have the Laurels look through. Another thing that is happening is after this Thursday, we go back to Lesson 1 but now we are going to be teaching in spanish. I'm a little terrified but one thing I've known for sure this entire time is that if I continue to pray, be obedient and work hard the Lord will help me with this. well, I'm running outta time, i'd like to have the outdoor picture for the plaque if that is okay. Let Dad know I'm thankful for his emails, and for his prayer for the Missionaries yesterday, the oldest distirict in our branch left yesterday so it was a great day. I'll also be working on getting my SD card sent to you. Love you all, tell Wilbur I miss him much -Ian
If you can't find my other journal that's fine, I can get one here at the book store.... Luke is going to the Argentina, Buenos Aires mission, I just know it. Now on a report on the last week, we got to teach the 2nd lesson quite a few times last week and I'm so happy that I'm understanding how to teach better and better every time. One idea I just had was maybe you guys could read through Predicad Mi Evangelio (Preach My Gospel) as a family. It's so inspirational, and it could also be something you have the Laurels look through. Another thing that is happening is after this Thursday, we go back to Lesson 1 but now we are going to be teaching in spanish. I'm a little terrified but one thing I've known for sure this entire time is that if I continue to pray, be obedient and work hard the Lord will help me with this. well, I'm running outta time, i'd like to have the outdoor picture for the plaque if that is okay. Let Dad know I'm thankful for his emails, and for his prayer for the Missionaries yesterday, the oldest distirict in our branch left yesterday so it was a great day. I'll also be working on getting my SD card sent to you. Love you all, tell Wilbur I miss him much -Ian
Thursday, February 18, 2010
February 18, 2010
Hey Family!
Wow, can you believe it's been 3 weeks already? It just blows my mind how much time flies around here. My relationship with Elder Winger is continuing to strengthen and we are continuing to do well at helping people come unto Christ. I'm happy to say that I have joined the MTC choir, and it has helped with a talent I never thought I had, singing. I'm understanding how to sing better, the range of my voice, and how much I need to "practice" breathing.
I'm so glad to hear about the enjoyable time Mom had with her family.
For Mom: I've been sending emails to your gmail, but this week I did send one to Maggie's email, your msn and myway accounts. Treat wise, keep sending Pop Tarts. They help with a couple of mornings when there's little time to get breakfast. The boots fit fantastically and I enjoyed the little bottle you snuck into the Kit Kats. I'm gonna send some pictures next week. I've got quite a few. Can you also send my other journal here? It's the fairly plain one. Also, let Kim know how sad I was that I wasn't able to welcome her home.
For Dad: I've been developing my Spanish so well. I've been speaking it as often as I can and at time I use Spanish words instead of English without meaning. Thanks for the Gas-X as well, but I've learned how to counteract the food here a bit.
For Ellie and Maggie: QK...also I have an MMIA for you (My Mission Is Awesome). So, near our classroom was a line of vacuums. They all have names and two of them are Jacob and Edward. For days I laughed every time I walked by them. One day, however, there was only the Jacob vacuum. Team Jacob wins again. BTW, Ellie, congrats on getting Grace!
For Griffin: Keep working hard and always, always, always, always listen to mom and dad. They'll help you with everything.
For Ellie, Mags, Griffin; You need to tell me about Clone Wars!
Love ya'll!
E-Dog!
Notes:
Wow, can you believe it's been 3 weeks already? It just blows my mind how much time flies around here. My relationship with Elder Winger is continuing to strengthen and we are continuing to do well at helping people come unto Christ. I'm happy to say that I have joined the MTC choir, and it has helped with a talent I never thought I had, singing. I'm understanding how to sing better, the range of my voice, and how much I need to "practice" breathing.
I'm so glad to hear about the enjoyable time Mom had with her family.
For Mom: I've been sending emails to your gmail, but this week I did send one to Maggie's email, your msn and myway accounts. Treat wise, keep sending Pop Tarts. They help with a couple of mornings when there's little time to get breakfast. The boots fit fantastically and I enjoyed the little bottle you snuck into the Kit Kats. I'm gonna send some pictures next week. I've got quite a few. Can you also send my other journal here? It's the fairly plain one. Also, let Kim know how sad I was that I wasn't able to welcome her home.
For Dad: I've been developing my Spanish so well. I've been speaking it as often as I can and at time I use Spanish words instead of English without meaning. Thanks for the Gas-X as well, but I've learned how to counteract the food here a bit.
For Ellie and Maggie: QK...also I have an MMIA for you (My Mission Is Awesome). So, near our classroom was a line of vacuums. They all have names and two of them are Jacob and Edward. For days I laughed every time I walked by them. One day, however, there was only the Jacob vacuum. Team Jacob wins again. BTW, Ellie, congrats on getting Grace!
For Griffin: Keep working hard and always, always, always, always listen to mom and dad. They'll help you with everything.
For Ellie, Mags, Griffin; You need to tell me about Clone Wars!
Love ya'll!
E-Dog!
Notes:
- I wish I knew what I sent him in a little bottle! And I finally got everything boxed and put into the shed, so of course now I have to go back in and find the journal.
- QK is a ninja in text. Maggie has a ninja-thing right now.
- Jacob and Edward are characters in the Twilight series.
- Grace is a character in the play Annie that the elementary school is doing.
- Ian left on the edge of a cliffhanger in Clone Wars.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
February 15, 2010 (via email)
Week 3 was awesome y'all! We've now started to teach lesson 2 (The Plan of Salvation) and are continuing to constantly learn spanish.
This last week I also decided to participate in the choir, and man, do I love it. The choristers are great and work with us so well... almost seemlessly.
We learned a new song on Sunday and it is so beautiful. I also got to watch Music and the Spoken Word and learned how much I love MoTab.
Elder Winger and I continue to get along with each other quite a lot, and are learning how to listen to each other more during lessons.
The Dominic Republic bound Missionaries (Elder Warren and Elder Rich) are leaving this week to go to the MTC there and we are so sad to have them leave us now. Elder Warren and I have gained such a friendship in these last couple of weeks that is so hard to describe.
Lastly, I'm still waiting for emails... and I'm loving the treats that get sent to me quite often.
Yo sé que la Iglesia de Jesucrist es verdadero, y Jóse Smith fue una profeta. Yo sé que el Libro de Mormón es verdadero tambien.
Cíao!!!
Note:
His email address is: i.asplund@myldsmail.net
This last week I also decided to participate in the choir, and man, do I love it. The choristers are great and work with us so well... almost seemlessly.
We learned a new song on Sunday and it is so beautiful. I also got to watch Music and the Spoken Word and learned how much I love MoTab.
Elder Winger and I continue to get along with each other quite a lot, and are learning how to listen to each other more during lessons.
The Dominic Republic bound Missionaries (Elder Warren and Elder Rich) are leaving this week to go to the MTC there and we are so sad to have them leave us now. Elder Warren and I have gained such a friendship in these last couple of weeks that is so hard to describe.
Lastly, I'm still waiting for emails... and I'm loving the treats that get sent to me quite often.
Yo sé que la Iglesia de Jesucrist es verdadero, y Jóse Smith fue una profeta. Yo sé que el Libro de Mormón es verdadero tambien.
Cíao!!!
Note:
His email address is: i.asplund@myldsmail.net
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
February 7, 2010
Hey Family!
Thanks again for all the goodies and boots. Those helped a ton.
Well, this week was Fast Sunday, as you probably knew, so I got to participate in my first of two testimony meetings that I will be part of while I'm here. There was such a spirit there that...I really can't describe. The power of all these missionaries' testimonies was incredible, and I even took a chance to bear my testimony as well. While I know it was short, I know it was powerful.
In the evening, we were provided a fireside by Chris Williams' soon-to-be mission president. President Cardon and his wife have such a testimony about the hymns and the history of the Book of Mormon, it blew me away.
For Mom: So to add to your knowledge of the MTC, I'll let you know our Tuesday schedule.
6:30 awake, shower, prepare
7:00 breakfast
7:30 gym
8:30 personal study
9:30 companion study
10:30 language study
11:30 lunch
12:15 class studies
4:30 dinner
5:15 missionary directed time/choir* (I'm joining choir)
6:00 devotional
7:15 district devotional review
9:00 plan
I know this seems crazy, but this is only the Tuesday schedule.
For Dad: I forgot to thank you for the letter. Last night during prayer I got the feeling to read my patriarchal blessing. So I read the one I thought was right but remembered that I had your blessing, too. Thanks so much for those. I've been keeping it close to my heart.
I can't wait to hear more from you all. I miss you all so much
Ian Asplund
PS Boo Saints!!!
Thanks again for all the goodies and boots. Those helped a ton.
Well, this week was Fast Sunday, as you probably knew, so I got to participate in my first of two testimony meetings that I will be part of while I'm here. There was such a spirit there that...I really can't describe. The power of all these missionaries' testimonies was incredible, and I even took a chance to bear my testimony as well. While I know it was short, I know it was powerful.
In the evening, we were provided a fireside by Chris Williams' soon-to-be mission president. President Cardon and his wife have such a testimony about the hymns and the history of the Book of Mormon, it blew me away.
For Mom: So to add to your knowledge of the MTC, I'll let you know our Tuesday schedule.
6:30 awake, shower, prepare
7:00 breakfast
7:30 gym
8:30 personal study
9:30 companion study
10:30 language study
11:30 lunch
12:15 class studies
4:30 dinner
5:15 missionary directed time/choir* (I'm joining choir)
6:00 devotional
7:15 district devotional review
9:00 plan
I know this seems crazy, but this is only the Tuesday schedule.
For Dad: I forgot to thank you for the letter. Last night during prayer I got the feeling to read my patriarchal blessing. So I read the one I thought was right but remembered that I had your blessing, too. Thanks so much for those. I've been keeping it close to my heart.
I can't wait to hear more from you all. I miss you all so much
Ian Asplund
PS Boo Saints!!!
February 5, 2010
Hello Family,
I wanted to thank you guys for the wonderful treats. The food here isn't horrible, but the side effects are...less than admirable.
For Mom: I cannot tell you how many rules for "the game" I have to follow. And I'm glad to hear about Jacob's fate, and am glad that the dogs are doing okay. I do miss them :-(
For Maggie: Take care of Lil' Red for me and I am praying hard for you. I know that this year of your life is one that you will look back on as a metamorphosis just like Zuko. And also, like him, it's the choices after this metamorphosis that will help you become who you want to become.
For Ellie: Good luck with Annie. I know you so want the part of Annie, but I still think you'd be a great Lily. Regardless of what you get, though, I'll be happy for you.
For Griffin: I miss my little bro so much. My piece of advice for you: Aim for Jacob's head.
For Dad: El CCM es tu brillante. Yo amo aqui. Mi companero es en bien. El nombre es Elder Winger donde de West Jordan, UT. El tiene mucho amar para todos. Comprendo espanal mas y mas. Ensenamos leccion uno ahora. El Espiritu Santo es tuvo alli y ensenamos muy bien. Yo se que Dios restaurado Su evanelio traves o Jose Smith (probably said wrong). Yo ano tu. En el nombre de Jesu Cristo, Amen.
For Grandpa and Grandma Asplund; One of the elders in my branch is a grandchild of Jerry. His name is Elder Travech...I think.
I can't wait for your next letter/package/picture. I love you and miss you all!
'Til next time... Ian Asplund
PS. Remember boys, flies spread disease.
Notes:
I wanted to thank you guys for the wonderful treats. The food here isn't horrible, but the side effects are...less than admirable.
For Mom: I cannot tell you how many rules for "the game" I have to follow. And I'm glad to hear about Jacob's fate, and am glad that the dogs are doing okay. I do miss them :-(
For Maggie: Take care of Lil' Red for me and I am praying hard for you. I know that this year of your life is one that you will look back on as a metamorphosis just like Zuko. And also, like him, it's the choices after this metamorphosis that will help you become who you want to become.
For Ellie: Good luck with Annie. I know you so want the part of Annie, but I still think you'd be a great Lily. Regardless of what you get, though, I'll be happy for you.
For Griffin: I miss my little bro so much. My piece of advice for you: Aim for Jacob's head.
For Dad: El CCM es tu brillante. Yo amo aqui. Mi companero es en bien. El nombre es Elder Winger donde de West Jordan, UT. El tiene mucho amar para todos. Comprendo espanal mas y mas. Ensenamos leccion uno ahora. El Espiritu Santo es tuvo alli y ensenamos muy bien. Yo se que Dios restaurado Su evanelio traves o Jose Smith (probably said wrong). Yo ano tu. En el nombre de Jesu Cristo, Amen.
For Grandpa and Grandma Asplund; One of the elders in my branch is a grandchild of Jerry. His name is Elder Travech...I think.
I can't wait for your next letter/package/picture. I love you and miss you all!
'Til next time... Ian Asplund
PS. Remember boys, flies spread disease.
Notes:
- I asked what the MTC is like. I guess there are lots of rules. Also, the reference to Jacob is a large cutout of Taylor Lautner who plays "Jacob Black" in the Twilight series. We move him around the house to scare people, but I guess Griffin and his friend, Alex, found a good use for him: target practice with Ian's Nerf guns.
- Lil' Red is the kids' car. Zuko is a character from Avatar: The Last Airbender. Ellie received the part of "Grace" in the elementary school production of Annie.
- The PS is another reference to Band of Brothers.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
February 1, 2010 (D-Day +5)
Hey Mom! Wow...I just...wow. I can't believe how awesome my mission has been so far. Day 1...President Uchtdorf came and welcomed all the new missionaries to their missions. Also, I won't ever be able to see the MTC video as well, so you can be happy.
My companero (companion) is Elder Winger. He's from West Jordan, UT and is an ox! He's big, excited, and very valiant. Our district is so awesome as well. All but 2 of our district are going to Argentina, Cordoba. The one companionship that is not going to Cordoba is going to the Dominican Republic.
Spanish is coming back to me fortunately, but it's still a struggle. Our teacher--well, all the teachers--have spoken Spanish to us right off the bat, and we've been confused every day since. The spirit is helping us all through and we're advancing quickly.
Sunday was amazing with priesthood meeting taught by Brother Jolley. Our sacrament meeting was about the plan of salvation, and we had a fireside that was all about singing hymns. The spirit is so strong here and I'm so glad that I'm relying on it so much already.
Give my best to the family and tackle Wilbur for me.
Ian Asplund
*Notes:
My companero (companion) is Elder Winger. He's from West Jordan, UT and is an ox! He's big, excited, and very valiant. Our district is so awesome as well. All but 2 of our district are going to Argentina, Cordoba. The one companionship that is not going to Cordoba is going to the Dominican Republic.
Spanish is coming back to me fortunately, but it's still a struggle. Our teacher--well, all the teachers--have spoken Spanish to us right off the bat, and we've been confused every day since. The spirit is helping us all through and we're advancing quickly.
Sunday was amazing with priesthood meeting taught by Brother Jolley. Our sacrament meeting was about the plan of salvation, and we had a fireside that was all about singing hymns. The spirit is so strong here and I'm so glad that I'm relying on it so much already.
Give my best to the family and tackle Wilbur for me.
Ian Asplund
*Notes:
- The D-day reference is from Band of Brothers. He and Maggie used to watch it together all the time.
- Brother Jolley and his wife are serving in one of the many districts within the MTC and are from our ward. We were thrilled to get word that Ian was in their group. It gives us an inside view as to how he is doing. Patty Jolley regularly gives me updates.
- Wilbur is the dog.
- His signature "Ian Asplund" is how he has signed his notes and cards since he was in kindergarten. We always joked with him that we knew who he was and could just sign "Ian," but it still continues.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
10....9....8....
Wow, I cannot believe it, my life is quickly coming to this huge and amazing moment. This week might as well be titled, ".......
well... I can't decide what to title this week, but i do know that the next chapter of my life is "Called to Serve" hence what my blog is currently titled.
I don't know how to describe my feelings now, but i do know that it is truly excitement
I don't know how to describe my feelings now, but i do know that it is truly excitement
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
T-Minus 13 Days
I can't believe I'm this close to leaving. 4 months ago, I was still in shock that I had finally got my mission call... to Argentina nonetheless. Now here I am... have just gotten my 2nd Hep-B shot and have almost finished what my mission president asked me to study.
Oh how time has flew. There's a side of me that has always been ready, but now that I'm here... it's quite humbling to know that I'm now allowed to jump into the fray and now I feel like it shouldn't be this close... this high up. But the excitement and the overwhelming joy I feel from knowing what I know about the gospel is the nice and gentle push to help me trudge through the fear of the future unknown.
3 Days of work left as well. What an experience it has been. Getting to meet new people and to love them more than I expected to. It has also helped me reach the goal that I set before I even got the job. $2,000 in the bank and a little more. This is a huge thing for me, knowing that, not only can I set a goal, but I can accomplish that goal.
It's amazing what has happened in my life in the last 6 months, and how much has changed around me, changed in me, and how much my testimony has strengthened. I know that all these things will continue to change and grow, and it will all be for my better.
And speaking of change... this blog will evolve a little to match with the upcoming two years. All my letters and all my pictures from my mission will be posted for everyone to look at and read. I hope you all take time to read of my experiences and maybe even feel the spirit in them.
I'm grateful for you all and love you all deeply. T-Minus 13 Days
Oh how time has flew. There's a side of me that has always been ready, but now that I'm here... it's quite humbling to know that I'm now allowed to jump into the fray and now I feel like it shouldn't be this close... this high up. But the excitement and the overwhelming joy I feel from knowing what I know about the gospel is the nice and gentle push to help me trudge through the fear of the future unknown.
3 Days of work left as well. What an experience it has been. Getting to meet new people and to love them more than I expected to. It has also helped me reach the goal that I set before I even got the job. $2,000 in the bank and a little more. This is a huge thing for me, knowing that, not only can I set a goal, but I can accomplish that goal.
It's amazing what has happened in my life in the last 6 months, and how much has changed around me, changed in me, and how much my testimony has strengthened. I know that all these things will continue to change and grow, and it will all be for my better.
And speaking of change... this blog will evolve a little to match with the upcoming two years. All my letters and all my pictures from my mission will be posted for everyone to look at and read. I hope you all take time to read of my experiences and maybe even feel the spirit in them.
I'm grateful for you all and love you all deeply. T-Minus 13 Days
Sunday, January 3, 2010
It's The Final Countdown! (da da da duh... dadada da duh)
Well those months have flown by and now here I am... 24 days away from walking into the MTC in a whole new world...a new fantastic point of view.
I honestly cannot believe how fast these last few months have flown, I'm almost all set for this experience, just a few more things to tackle. But one thing I know for sure is that I do have a testimony of this Gospel, and I do know that for those who are willing to hear it and give it a chance that it will change their lives... just as it has changed mine. I know for those that read the Book of Mormon that they will know it is true, if they pray constantly about it and study it out in their hearts and minds. I know that prayer works, I have seen it work through my family and throughout the church. I know that Priesthood works and performs great miracles, also through my experiences at home. I know that Joseph Smith restored this church and that he did see the Father and the Son, through my studies of this last year. I know that President Monson is the Prophet on the earth today and if we listen and apply his and the apostles teachings, they will also aid us in the changing of our lives. These things I say to you are true, and I know it. I bear these things unto you the name of our Lord and Savior, yea even Jesus Christ. Amen.
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