"Violet, you're turning violet!"
Willy Wonka and Violet
Tuesday, October 31, 2017
Monday, October 30, 2017
Letter #12
Dear Family,
So, correction, not the richest man in Brazil, just another multi-billionaire I guess. My bad, no he´s not a beer baron. He writes all the language text books and stuff and owns some sports teams, etc.
Thoughts this week, shoulder bags are the worst creation ever known to man. I am strating to lose a little respect for those who would rather use a shoulder bag than a backpack. But, we continue to use it here.
And, the weekly shoutout. Luke, Mom, Hunter, MomMom, Uncles, etc, I enjoyed your letters BUT, this week, we give a special little bit of love to the one and only Dave Bach. Your letter had me rolling on the hard tile floor. Your part on finding Mexico, was definitly the highlight. Surprisingly, I haven´t had any problems with the food or food poisoning down here.
Speaking of food, I got to talk a little with Elder G. Tebbs, which was nice. Food did come up. So, he had snake. Respect. To him for eating it and for the member who threw down and prepared it.
To some of you talking about having to walk 10 miles in 4 days (Canasian), this week, Thursday, we walked twelve, six out, six back. In the rain. Both ways. The things we do, huh? The feet are a little sore but the calves look FINE. Just that.
And, because it was a short letter week, resulting from last week´s late addition, all the highlights came on Saturday.We got to the chapel early to help set up for the Halloween party and also to fix and clean some thingies. First, Halloween party. Very nice, The costumes were great. Everyone just seems to throw together everything related to Halloween. Costume runner-ups, in my book, were
3- Batman Spiderman Racecar Driver
2- Zombie Ballerina
and your winner, to the enthusiastic nine year old girl running around the kitchen.........
1- The White Witch Alien-Skeleton Jedi Knight
It´s hard to explain how she could pack all that in but I´ll try.
The tiara and wand (left hand) = white witch
The antennas, superimposing the tiara = Alien
Which, when coupled with the skeleton T-Shirt = Alien-Skeleton
And the cape and lightsaber (right hand) = Jedi Knight
Maybe I´m reading that all wrong, but hey, I tried, right?
When we were setting up though, little scare, probably scarier than any of these costumes; We were in charge of making a tunnel leading to the Primary room, out of string and trash bags. It was good, BTW, and it stayed up the whole night. The scare came when we started popping out some of the ceiling tiles, in order to get the string around the rafter things. I pop one out and two, rather large, rather black, rather hairy spiders came tumbling out. One hit the ground and was smashed, the other hit the wall, caused by my desperation swipe, and then the ground and then was also, subsequently, destroyed. Back up we go. I pop out another one. Eyes. His name is Ronaldo, he´s about 12 inches long, dark brown hair, eyes-red
Something along these lines. Sorry for the grotesque image but hey, Happy Halloween. Thankfully, he was long dead, also thankfully, we didn´t have to be the ones to take him to the butterfly farm.
AND NOW, that we´re past the gross part, next gross part. What things were we fixing and more importantly, why? We were fixing the baptismal font, the drain had broken and water was sitting, along with some dead bugs and soon to be dead centipede thing. How did it get fixed. Well, I plunged it. Without a plunger? Yep, I used a length of hose and a small rubber funnel, and, with pure will power and lung power, I blew that clog right out the side of the building (where everything drains apparently). And why were we fixing the baptismal font? Dumb question, for a baptism of course.
That´s right, on Saturday, we, I, baptized Wesly Antonio dos Santos ja Sinto.
It was good, I have pictures, of that, of the family, of the hose I used to plunge, etc, but, unfortunately, the computer won´t let me upload phots. So, when we go back to our normal LAN house, next week, I´ll have those photos for yous guys.
And last thought, comes from lunch. We were eating at a member´s house, Thursday at around 12. The weather, hot, humid, super muggy. The food, edible. Mostly. The problem? The flies. There were in that one room, hundreds, if not thousands, of flies. Fruit flies, house flies, big cartoon looking flies with red eyes. All of them. And all of them wanted my food. So, as we were talking, mouths barely opening to keep the unwanted extra protein out, the member said something interesting, while acknowledging the flies. "Elders, I´m sorry about all the bugs. I would turn on a fan to drive them away, but I don´t want your food to get cold." If it wouldn´t have been instantly filled by all species of mesca and drosophila, my mouth would´ve dropped How can this lady think that cold, or honestly more likely just lukewarn, food could possibly be worse than these pests? It didn´t make sense to me. But, after, I thought of something.
The lady, didn´t enjoy the flies, but had a bigger problem with cold food. I however, had a bigger problem with the flies.Elder Silva, it seemed, only had the problem of trying to get the mushy rice and spaghetti off his plate and on to mine.
With so many problems, all unique and all individual, what can who do to solve them all? What is the cure all. For that situation, I´m not sure. It ended up that I ate my food and winged entre, Silva´s food and winged entre, and we moved on. But for every other situation, every other problem, every other question, there is a cure-all. There is an answer, both unique and individual for every single problem or question we have, regardless of size, regardless of who we are, with no exceptions. There is an answer and that answer is the Atonement. It was performed and, more importantly, shared, with all of us, each and every one. All we have to do is be ready and willing to receive it. Not everyone is ready to receive it, it´s not a free gift. We have to make the changes in our life that allow us to be worthy to obtain it´s blessings. But, it is extended to all, ready or not. And it is perfect.
It drives our flies away, keeps our food warm, and even will eat our food so that we don´t have to.
Without a question, this is the greatest act of love and charity to ever exist. It makes all others pale in comparison. And it is yours for the taking. It was performed for all of us.
So reach out and grab hold. And help others grab hold. Help everyone feel that same love.
I love all of you, I love this work, and I´ll talk to you all next week.
Muito Amor,
Elder Ninja Pirate Bodybuilder Missionary
So, correction, not the richest man in Brazil, just another multi-billionaire I guess. My bad, no he´s not a beer baron. He writes all the language text books and stuff and owns some sports teams, etc.
Thoughts this week, shoulder bags are the worst creation ever known to man. I am strating to lose a little respect for those who would rather use a shoulder bag than a backpack. But, we continue to use it here.
And, the weekly shoutout. Luke, Mom, Hunter, MomMom, Uncles, etc, I enjoyed your letters BUT, this week, we give a special little bit of love to the one and only Dave Bach. Your letter had me rolling on the hard tile floor. Your part on finding Mexico, was definitly the highlight. Surprisingly, I haven´t had any problems with the food or food poisoning down here.
Speaking of food, I got to talk a little with Elder G. Tebbs, which was nice. Food did come up. So, he had snake. Respect. To him for eating it and for the member who threw down and prepared it.
To some of you talking about having to walk 10 miles in 4 days (Canasian), this week, Thursday, we walked twelve, six out, six back. In the rain. Both ways. The things we do, huh? The feet are a little sore but the calves look FINE. Just that.
And, because it was a short letter week, resulting from last week´s late addition, all the highlights came on Saturday.We got to the chapel early to help set up for the Halloween party and also to fix and clean some thingies. First, Halloween party. Very nice, The costumes were great. Everyone just seems to throw together everything related to Halloween. Costume runner-ups, in my book, were
3- Batman Spiderman Racecar Driver
2- Zombie Ballerina
and your winner, to the enthusiastic nine year old girl running around the kitchen.........
1- The White Witch Alien-Skeleton Jedi Knight
It´s hard to explain how she could pack all that in but I´ll try.
The tiara and wand (left hand) = white witch
The antennas, superimposing the tiara = Alien
Which, when coupled with the skeleton T-Shirt = Alien-Skeleton
And the cape and lightsaber (right hand) = Jedi Knight
Maybe I´m reading that all wrong, but hey, I tried, right?
When we were setting up though, little scare, probably scarier than any of these costumes; We were in charge of making a tunnel leading to the Primary room, out of string and trash bags. It was good, BTW, and it stayed up the whole night. The scare came when we started popping out some of the ceiling tiles, in order to get the string around the rafter things. I pop one out and two, rather large, rather black, rather hairy spiders came tumbling out. One hit the ground and was smashed, the other hit the wall, caused by my desperation swipe, and then the ground and then was also, subsequently, destroyed. Back up we go. I pop out another one. Eyes. His name is Ronaldo, he´s about 12 inches long, dark brown hair, eyes-red
Something along these lines. Sorry for the grotesque image but hey, Happy Halloween. Thankfully, he was long dead, also thankfully, we didn´t have to be the ones to take him to the butterfly farm.
AND NOW, that we´re past the gross part, next gross part. What things were we fixing and more importantly, why? We were fixing the baptismal font, the drain had broken and water was sitting, along with some dead bugs and soon to be dead centipede thing. How did it get fixed. Well, I plunged it. Without a plunger? Yep, I used a length of hose and a small rubber funnel, and, with pure will power and lung power, I blew that clog right out the side of the building (where everything drains apparently). And why were we fixing the baptismal font? Dumb question, for a baptism of course.
That´s right, on Saturday, we, I, baptized Wesly Antonio dos Santos ja Sinto.
It was good, I have pictures, of that, of the family, of the hose I used to plunge, etc, but, unfortunately, the computer won´t let me upload phots. So, when we go back to our normal LAN house, next week, I´ll have those photos for yous guys.
And last thought, comes from lunch. We were eating at a member´s house, Thursday at around 12. The weather, hot, humid, super muggy. The food, edible. Mostly. The problem? The flies. There were in that one room, hundreds, if not thousands, of flies. Fruit flies, house flies, big cartoon looking flies with red eyes. All of them. And all of them wanted my food. So, as we were talking, mouths barely opening to keep the unwanted extra protein out, the member said something interesting, while acknowledging the flies. "Elders, I´m sorry about all the bugs. I would turn on a fan to drive them away, but I don´t want your food to get cold." If it wouldn´t have been instantly filled by all species of mesca and drosophila, my mouth would´ve dropped How can this lady think that cold, or honestly more likely just lukewarn, food could possibly be worse than these pests? It didn´t make sense to me. But, after, I thought of something.
The lady, didn´t enjoy the flies, but had a bigger problem with cold food. I however, had a bigger problem with the flies.Elder Silva, it seemed, only had the problem of trying to get the mushy rice and spaghetti off his plate and on to mine.
With so many problems, all unique and all individual, what can who do to solve them all? What is the cure all. For that situation, I´m not sure. It ended up that I ate my food and winged entre, Silva´s food and winged entre, and we moved on. But for every other situation, every other problem, every other question, there is a cure-all. There is an answer, both unique and individual for every single problem or question we have, regardless of size, regardless of who we are, with no exceptions. There is an answer and that answer is the Atonement. It was performed and, more importantly, shared, with all of us, each and every one. All we have to do is be ready and willing to receive it. Not everyone is ready to receive it, it´s not a free gift. We have to make the changes in our life that allow us to be worthy to obtain it´s blessings. But, it is extended to all, ready or not. And it is perfect.
It drives our flies away, keeps our food warm, and even will eat our food so that we don´t have to.
Without a question, this is the greatest act of love and charity to ever exist. It makes all others pale in comparison. And it is yours for the taking. It was performed for all of us.
So reach out and grab hold. And help others grab hold. Help everyone feel that same love.
I love all of you, I love this work, and I´ll talk to you all next week.
Muito Amor,
Elder Ninja Pirate Bodybuilder Missionary
Sunday, October 29, 2017
With All My Love
Dear Elder Schenewark,
The Dodgers and Astros made it to the World Series this week, and opening day in Los Angeles, your father's own stomping grounds, was a balmy 103 degrees. That Houston team will feel right at home. The Santa Ana winds are roaring through California, and have been the cause, with help from an arsonist, of horrendous fires.
Lesson of the week? Keep trying. Don't give up, and be creative. That really should be three lessons, but we'll call them all, enduring to the end. A deputy pulls over a vehicle with a driver whose name flags a warrant. At first inspection the deputy advised it wasn't his subject. I had to remind him to peruse carefully the long list of AKA names. He identified the subject using tattoo indicators, and he was off to jail.I'm glad I kept going. A second deputy had a driver with a long, complicated Hispanic name, and entered the names in the wrong order. Moving around the first and last and middle names brought up another warrant, and off he went to jail. Don't give up. The third subject visited an injured ex-girlfriend , was not wanted in the room, so she dialed 911. I had no one to send, so I contacted the security department in the hospital, gave him the description, and they got him for me. Be creative.
The best example of enduring to the end, in my life, are my parents. Your grandmother has endured for 14 years in taking care of your grandfather and his cancer. So many appointments, many more phone calls, car rides, hospital stays, and care at home. The tender loving kind.
Your grandfather is now in a poorly phrased ‘non-functioning status’ relative to his office of Patriarch for his new stake. He may still continue to give patriarchal blessings to his direct posterity, as he plans to do later this very week in Utah. In your Uncle Rich's words, "I’m grateful for his amazing example of faithful, dedicated service over many, many years. A Patriarch does all of his work out of the lime light, in a one on one fashion. Just like the Savior did. Ironically the Latin root for the word Patriarch literally means “Chief Father.” He was the Chief, and he is my Father. And I count it a privilege and blessing to be called in his name. As Elder Holland once said to me: “You’re THE President Hutchins son?” Yes. Yes I am." And I his daughter. Endure to the end.
Due to the emerging outbreak of plague in Madagascar, as a precautionary measure, the missionaries serving on the island of Madagascar are in the process of being transferred out of this area or temporarily reassigned to other missions.
I love finding pictures of your cousins on line. This week the star is Trevor, and his varsity soccer game, involving a team they have not beaten in a really long time. He was the key to their win.
Miller played a great game of soccer. He was given one of six soccer balls you iron on your uniform. I think he's gotten one at every game. One of my favorite things to do at any of my sons' competitions is to listen to the talk in the stands. At a larger school district not everyone knows I am the parent of a Schenewark. I love sitting in the stands and hearing others talk, or yell, about one of my children. The coach's comments this week? "Because I could hear the parents on the side line yelling his name." He had the two assists for both goals, and prevented any goals while playing goalie in the second half.
Breyer was wrapped like an Eskimo at her 45 degree 9 a..m. game. She said it made it hard to move, but she wasn't complaining. Next week wraps up both of their seasons in soccer.
I pulled up to Sawyer's game for the last three minutes. While walking to the field I heard, "And #83 for the one-handed catch for a 15 yard gain." Good enough. He had the only touch down, another fumble, and four or five great catches.He was invited to a Halloween party Saturday evening, and because it was so chilly, pulled out the good old Russian mafia fur coat and hat.
At the ward party, Breyer debuted as Wonder Women, wait until you see the pictures! And Miller chose Ant Man. They were both in super hero heaven.
Beer baron Jorge Paulo Lemann is still the richest person in Brazil. Is this with whom you ate?
I did let Mrs. Lovejoy know, I'll get GHS Rose this week.
Looking forward to catching up with you. Love you. Love knowing you better through your letters. Loving the man you've become. Stay safe.
Come home to me.
Love,
Mom
The Dodgers and Astros made it to the World Series this week, and opening day in Los Angeles, your father's own stomping grounds, was a balmy 103 degrees. That Houston team will feel right at home. The Santa Ana winds are roaring through California, and have been the cause, with help from an arsonist, of horrendous fires.
Lesson of the week? Keep trying. Don't give up, and be creative. That really should be three lessons, but we'll call them all, enduring to the end. A deputy pulls over a vehicle with a driver whose name flags a warrant. At first inspection the deputy advised it wasn't his subject. I had to remind him to peruse carefully the long list of AKA names. He identified the subject using tattoo indicators, and he was off to jail.I'm glad I kept going. A second deputy had a driver with a long, complicated Hispanic name, and entered the names in the wrong order. Moving around the first and last and middle names brought up another warrant, and off he went to jail. Don't give up. The third subject visited an injured ex-girlfriend , was not wanted in the room, so she dialed 911. I had no one to send, so I contacted the security department in the hospital, gave him the description, and they got him for me. Be creative.
The best example of enduring to the end, in my life, are my parents. Your grandmother has endured for 14 years in taking care of your grandfather and his cancer. So many appointments, many more phone calls, car rides, hospital stays, and care at home. The tender loving kind.
Your grandfather is now in a poorly phrased ‘non-functioning status’ relative to his office of Patriarch for his new stake. He may still continue to give patriarchal blessings to his direct posterity, as he plans to do later this very week in Utah. In your Uncle Rich's words, "I’m grateful for his amazing example of faithful, dedicated service over many, many years. A Patriarch does all of his work out of the lime light, in a one on one fashion. Just like the Savior did. Ironically the Latin root for the word Patriarch literally means “Chief Father.” He was the Chief, and he is my Father. And I count it a privilege and blessing to be called in his name. As Elder Holland once said to me: “You’re THE President Hutchins son?” Yes. Yes I am." And I his daughter. Endure to the end.
Due to the emerging outbreak of plague in Madagascar, as a precautionary measure, the missionaries serving on the island of Madagascar are in the process of being transferred out of this area or temporarily reassigned to other missions.
I love finding pictures of your cousins on line. This week the star is Trevor, and his varsity soccer game, involving a team they have not beaten in a really long time. He was the key to their win.
Breyer was wrapped like an Eskimo at her 45 degree 9 a..m. game. She said it made it hard to move, but she wasn't complaining. Next week wraps up both of their seasons in soccer.
I pulled up to Sawyer's game for the last three minutes. While walking to the field I heard, "And #83 for the one-handed catch for a 15 yard gain." Good enough. He had the only touch down, another fumble, and four or five great catches.He was invited to a Halloween party Saturday evening, and because it was so chilly, pulled out the good old Russian mafia fur coat and hat.
At the ward party, Breyer debuted as Wonder Women, wait until you see the pictures! And Miller chose Ant Man. They were both in super hero heaven.
Beer baron Jorge Paulo Lemann is still the richest person in Brazil. Is this with whom you ate?
I did let Mrs. Lovejoy know, I'll get GHS Rose this week.
Looking forward to catching up with you. Love you. Love knowing you better through your letters. Loving the man you've become. Stay safe.
Come home to me.
Love,
Mom
Saturday, October 28, 2017
Friday, October 27, 2017
College Correspondent
Rebellion to Tyrants is Obedience to God
That title comes from Thomas Jefferson. It was his suggestion for the US Motto.
This weekend has been the church’s annual indexing push, so if you haven’t done a batch, now is the time.
When I started using Porter’s phone, once or twice a week, I would receive an automated call from some place in Chicago. Tired of this, I tried unsuccessfully to figure out how to block the number or get off their list. In desperation, I entered my number into the national do not call list the government operates. Mistake. They say it can take up to one month for my request to take place, and apparently in the meantime, my number is openly circulated. I’ve been repeatedly called and called and have thus placed my phone on silence for at least the near future. Only outgoing calls. The best was when some guy called with a number out of New Brunswick saying he was stranded in Puerto Rico and wanted to wish my Dad happy birthday, but didn’t have his right number and asked me to call back.
I have to choose my classes for next semester in one week, and therefore need to decide if I want to keep my job (and the resulting Tuesday-Thursday class schedule) or not. Honestly, I still don’t know. Its a good job, but I’d like to spend more time on campus and have the opportunity to attend more events. I was elated to find out the BYU entrepreneurship contest has grown significantly in my two years absence. BYU now offers 8 teams/individuals $15,000, mentoring, and office space to start a company. There are also cash awards given out, which enabled two of the aforementioned 8 companies to walk away with $55,000 and $22,000. These are completely free grants; no equity is given away. I’ve been salivating since finding out, and am working on ideas right now. I have a couple possibilities, but nothing I can say I’m truly passionate about. So, don’t have free time, but want to see your idea put into action? Talk to me! Deadline is February.
Cajoled by Tanner, I attended a lecture by Robbie George on Thursday. He is one of the leading individuals on religious liberty in the nation. He paraphrased Benjamin Franklin saying that a people who lack virtue can always be counted on to trade freedom for protection.
Friday morning, I took a day off of work and left before dawn to head to Colorado Springs for an ISI conference. Five other students from BYU went, but had already arranged carpooling before I RSVP’ed for the conference, so I went with some students from Utah State University, making the 9 hour drive to Colorado Springs. Its been an interesting and enlarging experience; I must admit, however, that academia simply is not for me. We discussed and learned about “Liberty and the Declaration of Independence.” I realized I currently feel much more comfortable discussing business than philosophy. That will be a shortcoming I look to remedy.
The conference is set up to allow many opportunities to network with other students. Try as I might, I couldn’t say I succeeded. Besides from a music performance major from Univ. of Colorado at Boulder, I did not really connect with anyone from outside of BYU. (I did not know them before, and did really enjoy conversing with them.) Not to step too high on the soapbox, I must admit that much of the difficulty in connecting can be traced to choice of drink. While not ignorant of the general college atmosphere, I was nevertheless surprised by the alcoholic intake. In a conference themed around the Declaration of Independence, Sam Adams was celebrated in the hospitality room, and neglected to an afterthought as a founding father. One professor who spoke defined the pursuit of happiness as having a keg on a weekend. My roommate for the weekend is a student from USU, and came in around 2 am, both nights seemingly hammered by Thor himself. Drinks being free, freely flowed. Needless to say it was a reminder to be thankful for the though imperfect, utopian by comparison setting of BYU. Overall, there was 45ish students from 20 universities.
One insightful comment was made mentioning that it was roughly the same size group that drafted the Declaration. I am confident that they produced a much better result than what we could have. The keynote address was on the religious sympathies of the founders. The case was well argued and proven that besides for a small number of deists or heretics, the vast majority were orthodox Christians and founded our nation with that in mind.
That title comes from Thomas Jefferson. It was his suggestion for the US Motto.
This weekend has been the church’s annual indexing push, so if you haven’t done a batch, now is the time.
When I started using Porter’s phone, once or twice a week, I would receive an automated call from some place in Chicago. Tired of this, I tried unsuccessfully to figure out how to block the number or get off their list. In desperation, I entered my number into the national do not call list the government operates. Mistake. They say it can take up to one month for my request to take place, and apparently in the meantime, my number is openly circulated. I’ve been repeatedly called and called and have thus placed my phone on silence for at least the near future. Only outgoing calls. The best was when some guy called with a number out of New Brunswick saying he was stranded in Puerto Rico and wanted to wish my Dad happy birthday, but didn’t have his right number and asked me to call back.
I have to choose my classes for next semester in one week, and therefore need to decide if I want to keep my job (and the resulting Tuesday-Thursday class schedule) or not. Honestly, I still don’t know. Its a good job, but I’d like to spend more time on campus and have the opportunity to attend more events. I was elated to find out the BYU entrepreneurship contest has grown significantly in my two years absence. BYU now offers 8 teams/individuals $15,000, mentoring, and office space to start a company. There are also cash awards given out, which enabled two of the aforementioned 8 companies to walk away with $55,000 and $22,000. These are completely free grants; no equity is given away. I’ve been salivating since finding out, and am working on ideas right now. I have a couple possibilities, but nothing I can say I’m truly passionate about. So, don’t have free time, but want to see your idea put into action? Talk to me! Deadline is February.
Cajoled by Tanner, I attended a lecture by Robbie George on Thursday. He is one of the leading individuals on religious liberty in the nation. He paraphrased Benjamin Franklin saying that a people who lack virtue can always be counted on to trade freedom for protection.
Friday morning, I took a day off of work and left before dawn to head to Colorado Springs for an ISI conference. Five other students from BYU went, but had already arranged carpooling before I RSVP’ed for the conference, so I went with some students from Utah State University, making the 9 hour drive to Colorado Springs. Its been an interesting and enlarging experience; I must admit, however, that academia simply is not for me. We discussed and learned about “Liberty and the Declaration of Independence.” I realized I currently feel much more comfortable discussing business than philosophy. That will be a shortcoming I look to remedy.
The conference is set up to allow many opportunities to network with other students. Try as I might, I couldn’t say I succeeded. Besides from a music performance major from Univ. of Colorado at Boulder, I did not really connect with anyone from outside of BYU. (I did not know them before, and did really enjoy conversing with them.) Not to step too high on the soapbox, I must admit that much of the difficulty in connecting can be traced to choice of drink. While not ignorant of the general college atmosphere, I was nevertheless surprised by the alcoholic intake. In a conference themed around the Declaration of Independence, Sam Adams was celebrated in the hospitality room, and neglected to an afterthought as a founding father. One professor who spoke defined the pursuit of happiness as having a keg on a weekend. My roommate for the weekend is a student from USU, and came in around 2 am, both nights seemingly hammered by Thor himself. Drinks being free, freely flowed. Needless to say it was a reminder to be thankful for the though imperfect, utopian by comparison setting of BYU. Overall, there was 45ish students from 20 universities.
One insightful comment was made mentioning that it was roughly the same size group that drafted the Declaration. I am confident that they produced a much better result than what we could have. The keynote address was on the religious sympathies of the founders. The case was well argued and proven that besides for a small number of deists or heretics, the vast majority were orthodox Christians and founded our nation with that in mind.
Thursday, October 26, 2017
Letter #11
Dear Family,
So, surprise, it´s me, middle of the week, full glory fashion. Our LAN House went down so it took a while to get this off.
So, food. Powdered milk on popcorn, fantastic. Apparently, they make cottage cheese without curds?
Lastly, in food, a Parmesan cheese flavored pudding. Little strange.
Things that just kinda happened? There was a dog walking around our area with chains, Tupac style. Clearly a baller dawg. We saw a man at the bus stop flick a cigarette and it landed upright and stayed there for like fifteen minutes.An old lady told me I was the spitting image of Kirk Douglas
So first, what you've all been dying to hear. How was my lunch with the richest man in Brazil? Well, it was nice. We had steak, and chicken heart, and cheese shish kabobs, and sausage, and other good eats. For a multi-billionaire, he lives a rather modest lifestyle, which I found rather nice. was it the biggest house I've seen in Brazil? Yes. Mostly because the houses all have walls and you can´t really see the houses unless you´re inside them. But, it was nowhere near as big as one would have expected. we also played soccer, pool, tennis, ping pong. I mean, he's a pretty cool guy. Offered me a job which was sweet. He told me when I got off the mission, he would start me off at a cool 120,000 R$ a year. However, that also requires living in Brazil and giving up school so I told him I´d think about it. Never thought I would ever tell a billionaire that I´d "think about" his job offer. the things you find in Brazil.
Other highlights of the week.
On Tuesday, last Tuesday, we taught an old lady who had some sort of memory loss problem which led to some rather interesting, if not repetitive, conversation.
"Can we begin with a prayer?"
"Yes, please do, I love praying"
"okay, I can say it, *Begins to Pray*"
"So this one time I was praying and I fell and hit my head and I saw Jesus. *Tells whole story*"
"That´s an amazing story, what a wonderful experience to have."
"Speaking of wonderful experiences, let me tell you about the time I hit my head and saw Jesus....*tells story again*"
This continued for about fifty minutes before we finally got out of there. While we were leaving, this 80 something year old lady decided to go for a run. We´re talking with another person on the sidewalk, and she passes us, one arm pumping crazy and the other working her cane. We finished up, walked pass her and the same thing happened again about two minutes later. Her run was about the pace of a small child's walk, but she was going, really moving to get that fast. Never let age be an excuse.
Also this week, we were teaching a man and his wife, who were from Bolivia (native Spanish speakers). At the end of the lesson, we left and Elder Silva was talking about how the lesson was amazing and he was really impressed with me and when I asked why, he told me. Apparently (i´m still not convinced he´s not pulling my very sore legs) I taught the second half of the lesson and prayed in Spanish. Ms. Lovejoy, Ms. Rose, shout outs to you guys here (also, if someone could try to get those to them).
And lastly, I ran out of contact solution on Saturday, at night. thus, unable to procure more until Monday, which turned into Tuesday, I had to wear my glasses. Unluckily, on Sunday, it also decided to rain. Which meant I couldn't see out of my glasses. So I took them off. for those of you who don´t know, I´m relatively blind. I see the world different without glasses. everything looks like an old-masters painting, a mix of Van Gogh and Monet. It´s an amazing view, walking, seeing lights, stationary and passing by, colors, dull and bright, a moving world that blends and flows way out of the ordinary. while i was viewing this, I thought, why don´t I do this more often? It´s so much prettier, so mesmerizing. However, as I was viewing the sights, I found myself stumbling and tripping on unseen cracks or bumps, slipping and splashing through puddles. What looked liked dry ground was the deepest puddles, and what was shining and gleaming in the streetlight was actually the safer place to walk. The gospel of Jesus Christ is kinda like that, I think, like a pair of glasses or contacts. When I put them on, I could clearly see where I needed to walk. When we have "worldly" or "natural" vision, we find ourselves walking where we shouldn't be walking. Only when we apply the gospel as a constant guide in our lives can we see the path that is safest for us. And, as we walk this path, others will see us and follow. But first, we need to find and stay on that path.
I love you guys, keep following the path that you need to be on,and, if you haven´t found that path, I encourage you to find it. It is there but we must make the choice to take those first steps.
From the land of the broken LAN Houses,
Elder Spartacus with the mean Chin Dimple
Try the new Yahoo Mail
Apparently the second thing of contact solution needs a special case to "neutralize"the solution. Wish I would've known before I stuck hydrogen peroxide in my eye haha, all fine now. Also, mom, what are your thoughts on motorcycles, I don't remember? I would ask you too dad, but I already know....
So, surprise, it´s me, middle of the week, full glory fashion. Our LAN House went down so it took a while to get this off.
So, food. Powdered milk on popcorn, fantastic. Apparently, they make cottage cheese without curds?
Lastly, in food, a Parmesan cheese flavored pudding. Little strange.
Things that just kinda happened? There was a dog walking around our area with chains, Tupac style. Clearly a baller dawg. We saw a man at the bus stop flick a cigarette and it landed upright and stayed there for like fifteen minutes.An old lady told me I was the spitting image of Kirk Douglas
So first, what you've all been dying to hear. How was my lunch with the richest man in Brazil? Well, it was nice. We had steak, and chicken heart, and cheese shish kabobs, and sausage, and other good eats. For a multi-billionaire, he lives a rather modest lifestyle, which I found rather nice. was it the biggest house I've seen in Brazil? Yes. Mostly because the houses all have walls and you can´t really see the houses unless you´re inside them. But, it was nowhere near as big as one would have expected. we also played soccer, pool, tennis, ping pong. I mean, he's a pretty cool guy. Offered me a job which was sweet. He told me when I got off the mission, he would start me off at a cool 120,000 R$ a year. However, that also requires living in Brazil and giving up school so I told him I´d think about it. Never thought I would ever tell a billionaire that I´d "think about" his job offer. the things you find in Brazil.
Other highlights of the week.
On Tuesday, last Tuesday, we taught an old lady who had some sort of memory loss problem which led to some rather interesting, if not repetitive, conversation.
"Can we begin with a prayer?"
"Yes, please do, I love praying"
"okay, I can say it, *Begins to Pray*"
"So this one time I was praying and I fell and hit my head and I saw Jesus. *Tells whole story*"
"That´s an amazing story, what a wonderful experience to have."
"Speaking of wonderful experiences, let me tell you about the time I hit my head and saw Jesus....*tells story again*"
This continued for about fifty minutes before we finally got out of there. While we were leaving, this 80 something year old lady decided to go for a run. We´re talking with another person on the sidewalk, and she passes us, one arm pumping crazy and the other working her cane. We finished up, walked pass her and the same thing happened again about two minutes later. Her run was about the pace of a small child's walk, but she was going, really moving to get that fast. Never let age be an excuse.
Also this week, we were teaching a man and his wife, who were from Bolivia (native Spanish speakers). At the end of the lesson, we left and Elder Silva was talking about how the lesson was amazing and he was really impressed with me and when I asked why, he told me. Apparently (i´m still not convinced he´s not pulling my very sore legs) I taught the second half of the lesson and prayed in Spanish. Ms. Lovejoy, Ms. Rose, shout outs to you guys here (also, if someone could try to get those to them).
And lastly, I ran out of contact solution on Saturday, at night. thus, unable to procure more until Monday, which turned into Tuesday, I had to wear my glasses. Unluckily, on Sunday, it also decided to rain. Which meant I couldn't see out of my glasses. So I took them off. for those of you who don´t know, I´m relatively blind. I see the world different without glasses. everything looks like an old-masters painting, a mix of Van Gogh and Monet. It´s an amazing view, walking, seeing lights, stationary and passing by, colors, dull and bright, a moving world that blends and flows way out of the ordinary. while i was viewing this, I thought, why don´t I do this more often? It´s so much prettier, so mesmerizing. However, as I was viewing the sights, I found myself stumbling and tripping on unseen cracks or bumps, slipping and splashing through puddles. What looked liked dry ground was the deepest puddles, and what was shining and gleaming in the streetlight was actually the safer place to walk. The gospel of Jesus Christ is kinda like that, I think, like a pair of glasses or contacts. When I put them on, I could clearly see where I needed to walk. When we have "worldly" or "natural" vision, we find ourselves walking where we shouldn't be walking. Only when we apply the gospel as a constant guide in our lives can we see the path that is safest for us. And, as we walk this path, others will see us and follow. But first, we need to find and stay on that path.
I love you guys, keep following the path that you need to be on,and, if you haven´t found that path, I encourage you to find it. It is there but we must make the choice to take those first steps.
From the land of the broken LAN Houses,
Elder Spartacus with the mean Chin Dimple
Try the new Yahoo Mail
Sunday, October 22, 2017
With All My Love
Dear Elder Schenewark,
One day we were driving in the car, and Breyer, in the spirit of Halloween floating around her school halls, asked, “What is a mummy?” Cooper quickly answered, “A piece of beef jerky in a sheet in the desert.” He had me laughing for a long time! Such is the way over here. There’s always something to laugh about.
Your grandmother read me your letter. I definitely wasn't laughing. More like crying. That you have arrived to the point you have is all that a mother can hope for. You've exceeded my expectations I didn't know I had until I heard your words. Thank you. What a gift.
Sawyer had an away football game. He had one touchdown, one interception, and one fumble he caused. I’d consider that a good game.
Cooper’s tennis team season is over. They didn’t advance after districts. And unfortunately Cooper wasn’t able to help them – he lost his match, but it was close. He’s been able to come home early this week, right after school, the first since school has begun.
I was able to watch Breyer and Miller for the first time Saturday in their soccer games. FUN! Miller did not score a goal for me. Neither did Breyer. But, Miller was poetry in motion on the field. He’s perfected a one legged slide technique of stealing a ball from his opponent, and still remains on his feet. The coach had been determined to keep him out of goalie in hopes that he would score more goals for the team, but when the opposing team went up by two, he was back in the goal box.
And now Sawyer wants to talk more sports. He loves you.
One day we were driving in the car, and Breyer, in the spirit of Halloween floating around her school halls, asked, “What is a mummy?” Cooper quickly answered, “A piece of beef jerky in a sheet in the desert.” He had me laughing for a long time! Such is the way over here. There’s always something to laugh about.
Your grandmother read me your letter. I definitely wasn't laughing. More like crying. That you have arrived to the point you have is all that a mother can hope for. You've exceeded my expectations I didn't know I had until I heard your words. Thank you. What a gift.
Sawyer had an away football game. He had one touchdown, one interception, and one fumble he caused. I’d consider that a good game.
Cooper’s tennis team season is over. They didn’t advance after districts. And unfortunately Cooper wasn’t able to help them – he lost his match, but it was close. He’s been able to come home early this week, right after school, the first since school has begun.
I was able to watch Breyer and Miller for the first time Saturday in their soccer games. FUN! Miller did not score a goal for me. Neither did Breyer. But, Miller was poetry in motion on the field. He’s perfected a one legged slide technique of stealing a ball from his opponent, and still remains on his feet. The coach had been determined to keep him out of goalie in hopes that he would score more goals for the team, but when the opposing team went up by two, he was back in the goal box.
A beautiful fall picture from Aunt Jenny
And now Sawyer wants to talk more sports. He loves you.
"This week I am adding a sports section. By the way it is Sawyer in case you haven't guessed.This way you won't be blind to the things happening here. First we will start with basketball. First off the Wizards and the Raptors are both undefeated an at the top of the Eastern conference. For the Western conference Rockets are at the top. Back to the Eastern conference. Gordon Hayward broke his leg in half while 6 minutes into the first quarter of their first game. The doctors say he is out for the season. This is quite a shame because the Celtics only lost to the Cav's by 3 without him which means with Hayward they would have dominated. So pretty much it is not who will win the NBA finals this year but who would have lost to the Celtics in the playoffs.
The Suns fired their head coach after losing three straight games. And finally, Lonzo Ball. The talk of schools around the U.S. Even though he lost his first game, he had a fantastic second game.Scoring 29 points, his passing ability is absolutely crazy. Also, Giannis Antetokounmpo scored a career high his first game.
Uncle Aaron and Uncle Roger, hiking Mt. Monadnock
Now to football. At the beginning of the year the New England Patriots had a 35% chance of winning the Super Bowl. For some reason though they have not been doing all that well. Somehow they have lost two games and have only won one. Even though they are tied for first, they should be destroying not just keeping up with the competition. Also as surprising is that the Eagles are winning their conference. While the golf year has just about wrapped up, soccer is still going. The world cup next year will be held in Russia. And that is all. Maybe you might enjoy it because I don't know what else to write to you.
Oh I almost forgot. Baseball. As you might know the world series are coming up. The two
teams are the Dodgers and the Astros. The Yankees and the Astros battled all the way to game 7. With the Astros finally pulling away 4-0. The Dodgers being Dad's favorite team are looking great. Their season record was 104-58. Their playoff record was 4-2 and 3 of those games were won in a row at Dodgers stadium. The officials have the Dodgers winning the Worlds series , and I do to. This is because of their better defense, rotation of offense, and pitching. The only reason the Astros would win is because they have the first rated offense. The catch though is that L.A. is second. And that is actually all I have to say other than that Russell Westbrook is doing pretty bad this year.
Love your bigger and stronger brother,
THE Sawyer Schenewark
I didn't intend for this to be all about sports, but there you go. It is that kind of a letter.
Hunter spent the weekend in Colorado, and he'll be writing shortly. Hopefully before you get on the computer. He had a great time, but is now really behind.
Tanner enjoyed the weekend with Uncle Zach and a few of his children. Hopefully he'll write about their adventures as well.
I am back on day shift, and morning comes early. It's another adjustment.
Thank you for the thought you put into your letters. We LOVE them. We're so proud of you. Your example shines here in our house. You're our family home evening lesson every week.
Be safe.
Love,
Mom
Tuesday, October 17, 2017
College Correspondent
I’m back
This week has been delightfully balanced. I’ve been able to keep up physically, spiritually, mentally, and socially.
PHYSICALLY
I was able to return to working out a couple days. But, the real highlight was on Wednesday when Josh, another intern, from the U of U, and I left to go to the driving range nearby. We paid five bucks each and hit 40 balls each, renting a 7 iron and a PW. It was wonderful to be outside and enjoy some beautiful weather.
While in possession of Annemarie’s car (see dating life below) I ran to DI for a cookie sheet. Of course, I then strolled past the organs. They were tempting, but I resisted (where would I put an organ anyway?) Then I meandered into the outdoor section and that is where I saw it. Love at first sight. Hidden in the corner, red metal jutting out. Yes, it was my grill. MTB. $15, like new, and one of my best all time purchases. Of course that necessitated charcoal and matches, but hey, you do what you gotta do. And what did I do? After getting everything ready (and having been inspired to pick up rump roast on sale at Macy’s grocery store earlier) it was cookout time this weekend. Brazilian style. Complete with a plantain to be grilled. Deeelicious. I’m back. After some rocky moments in the last few weeks including as previously reported pumpkin pie without sugar, and corn chowder a la carrot chowder as I had no corn and substituted carrots, it was time to get down to the real important stuff. Meat. Turned out fantastic. This might have to be a weekly occurrence, at least bi-weekly right? Might I add that all ward members were incentivized to come to family history class with oatmeal chocolate chip cookies? I realized that I’d been neglecting to add ice water to my crust, and I also bought measuring cups, so my apple pie turned out heavenly.
SPIRITUALLY
Roommate service notes: one of them broke my pie plate. He felt bad, but honestly no one here is very rich, and he contributes a lot to the apt, so I bought another one. And another totally clogged the toilet. He used it then shortly afterwards left the apt. I went in, saw the disaster and left to go to BYU to study and practice the organ, and do some homework. When I came back 5 hours later, the problem had not been resolved, but he was home. So I let him know, and he said, “yeah, I keep forgetting to fix it.” Thinking it would then be resolved, I waited for another two hours. Nothing. So, I unceremoniously plunged it. You are welcome. I have been praying for ways to serve, so can’t really complain. I just hope it doesn’t happen again.
I watched the replay of Elder Hales funeral. Inspiring of course, and needless to say a life well lived, worthy of emulation, full of purpose, and reaching for perfection. I love the story of how when he was at Harvard and called to be Elders Quorom President, and not knowing how he would fulfill the time obligation, his wife said, “I’d rather have an active priesthood holder than a man who holds a master’s degree from Harvard. We’ll do them both.” LOVE IT!
Sort of reminds me of what Elder Claudio Costa’s wife told him concerning time away from home concerns, (to translate and paraphrase) “I’d rather have 10% of a 100% priesthood holder, than 100% of a 10% priesthood holder.”
I’ve had the goal of following Pres. Nelson’s challenge and
Study everything Jesus said and did as recorded in the Old Testament.
Study His laws as recorded in the New Testament.
Study His doctrine as recorded in the Book of Mormon.
Study His words as recorded in the Doctrine and Covenants.
He promised, “I promise those listening that if they would proceed to learn all they can about Jesus Christ, their love for Him and for God’s laws would grow beyond what they could currently imagine.” He also said “my wife asked me what impact it had on me. I told her, ‘I am a different man!'” This week I started.
On Tuesday, my 5-7:30 pm class was cancelled which allowed me to participate in our ward’s temple trip.
MENTALLY
Thursday I returned to campus at 7 to listen to an interfaith panel, of a BYU professor and a Baptist theologian from the Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. They talked over various aspects of Christ’s ministry, showing how the LDS and Baptists views are similar and different. It was quite enlightening. One of my favorite parts was when Dr. McKinion from SBTS shared how Christ was born, coming out of Joseph’s virgin, womb (Joseph’s as Mary was legally betrothed to him) and later would rise from the dead, coming out of the virgin (unused) tomb of Joseph of Arimethea. Good stuff.
SOCIALLY
First, let me say that Tanner and Annemarie earned saint status. St. Tanner brought me back home from work on Wednesday, and St. Annemarie dropped off her car for me to use on my date. And St Tanmarie dropped off pumpkin chocolate chip cookies with the car. Yes!
Friday night I picked up a certain Jane, a blind date (and to quell the inevitable jokes from some unnamed readers *cough* dad *cough*) I confirmed that she has 20/20 vision. And is not blind. She is a roommate of a former sister in my mission, who set this up. The only thing I knew was that she lived in Saudi Arabia for a couple years, so I invited her to see “The Saint and the Sultan”https://www.sultanandthesaintfilm.com/ with me. We drove to the JSB, conversed, and then enjoyed the film. Interestingly, she was born in Boston, I’m guessing when her dad was going to school. And recently returned from serving a mission in Tallahassee Florida. In any case, I’ll just say that Jane is a fantastic person who has a bright future ahead of her, but….. it was like I was dancing the waltz and she was doing the foxtrot. Both great, but just seemed off when put together. And I never even told her any metaphors to be confusing. There simply wasn’t any real sparks or chemistry and everything seemed sort of forced. Forced yes, but it never was awkward, and we even hugged at the end of the night, after I walked her up to her door. So, a job well done and I’m going to add an entry in the “Valuable Dating Experience” ledger.
This week has been delightfully balanced. I’ve been able to keep up physically, spiritually, mentally, and socially.
PHYSICALLY
I was able to return to working out a couple days. But, the real highlight was on Wednesday when Josh, another intern, from the U of U, and I left to go to the driving range nearby. We paid five bucks each and hit 40 balls each, renting a 7 iron and a PW. It was wonderful to be outside and enjoy some beautiful weather.
While in possession of Annemarie’s car (see dating life below) I ran to DI for a cookie sheet. Of course, I then strolled past the organs. They were tempting, but I resisted (where would I put an organ anyway?) Then I meandered into the outdoor section and that is where I saw it. Love at first sight. Hidden in the corner, red metal jutting out. Yes, it was my grill. MTB. $15, like new, and one of my best all time purchases. Of course that necessitated charcoal and matches, but hey, you do what you gotta do. And what did I do? After getting everything ready (and having been inspired to pick up rump roast on sale at Macy’s grocery store earlier) it was cookout time this weekend. Brazilian style. Complete with a plantain to be grilled. Deeelicious. I’m back. After some rocky moments in the last few weeks including as previously reported pumpkin pie without sugar, and corn chowder a la carrot chowder as I had no corn and substituted carrots, it was time to get down to the real important stuff. Meat. Turned out fantastic. This might have to be a weekly occurrence, at least bi-weekly right? Might I add that all ward members were incentivized to come to family history class with oatmeal chocolate chip cookies? I realized that I’d been neglecting to add ice water to my crust, and I also bought measuring cups, so my apple pie turned out heavenly.
SPIRITUALLY
Roommate service notes: one of them broke my pie plate. He felt bad, but honestly no one here is very rich, and he contributes a lot to the apt, so I bought another one. And another totally clogged the toilet. He used it then shortly afterwards left the apt. I went in, saw the disaster and left to go to BYU to study and practice the organ, and do some homework. When I came back 5 hours later, the problem had not been resolved, but he was home. So I let him know, and he said, “yeah, I keep forgetting to fix it.” Thinking it would then be resolved, I waited for another two hours. Nothing. So, I unceremoniously plunged it. You are welcome. I have been praying for ways to serve, so can’t really complain. I just hope it doesn’t happen again.
I watched the replay of Elder Hales funeral. Inspiring of course, and needless to say a life well lived, worthy of emulation, full of purpose, and reaching for perfection. I love the story of how when he was at Harvard and called to be Elders Quorom President, and not knowing how he would fulfill the time obligation, his wife said, “I’d rather have an active priesthood holder than a man who holds a master’s degree from Harvard. We’ll do them both.” LOVE IT!
Sort of reminds me of what Elder Claudio Costa’s wife told him concerning time away from home concerns, (to translate and paraphrase) “I’d rather have 10% of a 100% priesthood holder, than 100% of a 10% priesthood holder.”
I’ve had the goal of following Pres. Nelson’s challenge and
Study everything Jesus said and did as recorded in the Old Testament.
Study His laws as recorded in the New Testament.
Study His doctrine as recorded in the Book of Mormon.
Study His words as recorded in the Doctrine and Covenants.
He promised, “I promise those listening that if they would proceed to learn all they can about Jesus Christ, their love for Him and for God’s laws would grow beyond what they could currently imagine.” He also said “my wife asked me what impact it had on me. I told her, ‘I am a different man!'” This week I started.
On Tuesday, my 5-7:30 pm class was cancelled which allowed me to participate in our ward’s temple trip.
MENTALLY
Thursday I returned to campus at 7 to listen to an interfaith panel, of a BYU professor and a Baptist theologian from the Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. They talked over various aspects of Christ’s ministry, showing how the LDS and Baptists views are similar and different. It was quite enlightening. One of my favorite parts was when Dr. McKinion from SBTS shared how Christ was born, coming out of Joseph’s virgin, womb (Joseph’s as Mary was legally betrothed to him) and later would rise from the dead, coming out of the virgin (unused) tomb of Joseph of Arimethea. Good stuff.
SOCIALLY
First, let me say that Tanner and Annemarie earned saint status. St. Tanner brought me back home from work on Wednesday, and St. Annemarie dropped off her car for me to use on my date. And St Tanmarie dropped off pumpkin chocolate chip cookies with the car. Yes!
Friday night I picked up a certain Jane, a blind date (and to quell the inevitable jokes from some unnamed readers *cough* dad *cough*) I confirmed that she has 20/20 vision. And is not blind. She is a roommate of a former sister in my mission, who set this up. The only thing I knew was that she lived in Saudi Arabia for a couple years, so I invited her to see “The Saint and the Sultan”https://www.sultanandthesaintfilm.com/ with me. We drove to the JSB, conversed, and then enjoyed the film. Interestingly, she was born in Boston, I’m guessing when her dad was going to school. And recently returned from serving a mission in Tallahassee Florida. In any case, I’ll just say that Jane is a fantastic person who has a bright future ahead of her, but….. it was like I was dancing the waltz and she was doing the foxtrot. Both great, but just seemed off when put together. And I never even told her any metaphors to be confusing. There simply wasn’t any real sparks or chemistry and everything seemed sort of forced. Forced yes, but it never was awkward, and we even hugged at the end of the night, after I walked her up to her door. So, a job well done and I’m going to add an entry in the “Valuable Dating Experience” ledger.
Monday, October 16, 2017
Letter #10
Dear Family,
Harro again, peoples, it is I :) First, Anne Marie, I´m so glad you found a use for my engagement ring, I originally bought it for another blonde girl from Henderson (@ChatteringPlatypus), so I guess it´s fitting that you ended up with it. Just short random things that happened this week:
1- Saw my first natural Brazilian ginger. Then saw two more. They're real
2- Saw a car straight out of Fast and Furious, bright purple, revving it up in the streets. Then I saw another one, pure gold. Baller move
3- JACK GOT HIS MISSION CALL, just to let everyone know, don't worry if you don't know Jack, don't either, but we've all been eagerly awaiting this news down here in Brazil. Way to go Jack
And now, for news First, very scary week for various reasons. Ironically, the only non-scary day was Friday the 13th
Let´s start with Monday. Well, the iron caught on fire. We even had a new one but they refused to use it. The plug, which I later found had been connected from an older iron after the then newer oone broke, it's complicated. Just know that I have been validated to the highest degree.
Tuesday: There are so many dogs in Brazil, and they just wander the streets, freely, aimlessly. Never have I been growled at, snarled at, felt the slightest bit threatened. We were walking and I see this doggo, black, mid sized, just standing there. Don´t pay him much attention. I look away, and I see a blur in my peripherals. I stop, on a dime, and step back. Said dog fliieees by me, open mouth, hits the wall next to me and then runs off.
Wednesday; We´re walking on a sketchy sketchy bridge. Handmade, plywood and two by fours over about a fifteen foot ravine. We´re crossing, I hear a crack, feel a shift, jump the last six feet or so, BAM - one board breaks, chain reaction, whole bridge collapses and I´m left standing on the edge looking amazingly calm apparently, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom style. Very scary
Thursday: We're riding the Onibus (I have a feeling you'll be getting lots of Onibus stories) and, having rained that morning, the roads, already very trash, are not the easiest to drive on. We try to make a turn, the whole bus, literally a train sized bus, starts fishtailing. Driver corrects it, we good. But, very very scary
Friday: Good day, see below
Saturday: We´re on the Onibus again. I'm on splits in another area, it's late, we headed home. We step on the bus and I start chatting up the driver. He tells us that we're his last passengers ever, weird thing to say. Then he tells us that the ride is more fun in the back? Strange but we go to the back. THEN, we reach the end of his route, where he turns around to go back to the terminal. He stops, turns around, yells, WATCH THIS. hmmmm. He takes off towards the turnaround, hits the brake, and drifts the Onibus, drifts it. Drifts. It. The Onibus. Drifted. Around the dirt turnaround circle. Then, the whole way to the station, he doesn't slow down at all, not even for the speed bumps on the highway (which they have here? odd). Thus, sitting in the back, every time he hits one, I got air. BIG air. We're talking two to three feet off the seat. Fun, absolutely. Scary. Definitely. Did we find out after that he was going to the US the next day to try to be a NASCAR driver? Yes we did.
And FRIDAY again. Like I said, this was a good day. Hot, sweaty, we walked to the edge of our area, also, the edge of our mission. Very hot. We´re in a town/area/place called Olympia. All the streets are named after Olympic events. We teach a lesson on Judo street, very good, cross Tennis Street, Basketball Street, and Gymnastics Art street and end up on Beach Volleyball Street. We teach a lesson to a family of four, two little boys and their parents. The dad, Irmão da Santos Fortunato , has a smoking problem. Big, scary guy, wolf pack, Grampa Bud on a Harley, style full beard. I ask him if he´ll try to stop smoking. He doesn't say a thing, just picks up his son's pvc pipe slingshot and his pack of cigarettes and walks outside. He is launching them, one by one, really letting them fly. He gets to the last one, pulls out a lighter, lights it up, and just stares at it. Then he drops it in the slingshot and sends it. He turns around and tells us that when he bought that pack of cigarettes two days earlier, he told himself that the last cig he lit would be the last one in that pack. Very poetic, lighting and not smoking it, great dude, can´t wait to see where he goes.
Also, last p-day, I tried to get a haircut. Simple enough, I really need one. The lady who cuts hair in our ward wasn't home so we went to a barber. He refused to cut my hair because, in his words, it would be a crime to cut a single one of my hairs. Apparently my hair is pretty nice right now if it causes a barber to refuse money to do his job. I don´t know. Just saying. The hair is flowing right now. And Tanner, sorry, but I think it´s staying.
And thoughts of the spiritual nature. I've been singing a lot and when I sing a hymn, I like to find and read some scriptures for it. I've had this one for a while now but it was in the noggin this week.
D&C 88:63: "Draw near unto me and I will draw near unto you; seek me diligently and ye shall find me; ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened unto you."
Love this because we do do a lot of knocking on doors and I´m constantly amazed how open and receptive people are. It really is a witness to the power and truth of this gospel, people who don´t have it can visibly see a difference in those who do, missionaries and members alike. Having an hour a day to study the scriptures has been wonderful. Everyday, i find answers and can feel myself, almost physically, becoming a better, different person. It´s a weird thought but it has been so evident in this week. The Lord blesses those who strive to serve him and seeing these blessing is a testament that I´m doing, at least trying to do, the right thing, the thing he wants me to do.
I love you, I´m off to get a haircut.
Much Sincerity,
Elder (Almost) Mola Ram
Harro again, peoples, it is I :) First, Anne Marie, I´m so glad you found a use for my engagement ring, I originally bought it for another blonde girl from Henderson (@ChatteringPlatypus), so I guess it´s fitting that you ended up with it. Just short random things that happened this week:
1- Saw my first natural Brazilian ginger. Then saw two more. They're real
2- Saw a car straight out of Fast and Furious, bright purple, revving it up in the streets. Then I saw another one, pure gold. Baller move
3- JACK GOT HIS MISSION CALL, just to let everyone know, don't worry if you don't know Jack, don't either, but we've all been eagerly awaiting this news down here in Brazil. Way to go Jack
And now, for news First, very scary week for various reasons. Ironically, the only non-scary day was Friday the 13th
Let´s start with Monday. Well, the iron caught on fire. We even had a new one but they refused to use it. The plug, which I later found had been connected from an older iron after the then newer oone broke, it's complicated. Just know that I have been validated to the highest degree.
Tuesday: There are so many dogs in Brazil, and they just wander the streets, freely, aimlessly. Never have I been growled at, snarled at, felt the slightest bit threatened. We were walking and I see this doggo, black, mid sized, just standing there. Don´t pay him much attention. I look away, and I see a blur in my peripherals. I stop, on a dime, and step back. Said dog fliieees by me, open mouth, hits the wall next to me and then runs off.
Wednesday; We´re walking on a sketchy sketchy bridge. Handmade, plywood and two by fours over about a fifteen foot ravine. We´re crossing, I hear a crack, feel a shift, jump the last six feet or so, BAM - one board breaks, chain reaction, whole bridge collapses and I´m left standing on the edge looking amazingly calm apparently, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom style. Very scary
Thursday: We're riding the Onibus (I have a feeling you'll be getting lots of Onibus stories) and, having rained that morning, the roads, already very trash, are not the easiest to drive on. We try to make a turn, the whole bus, literally a train sized bus, starts fishtailing. Driver corrects it, we good. But, very very scary
Friday: Good day, see below
Saturday: We´re on the Onibus again. I'm on splits in another area, it's late, we headed home. We step on the bus and I start chatting up the driver. He tells us that we're his last passengers ever, weird thing to say. Then he tells us that the ride is more fun in the back? Strange but we go to the back. THEN, we reach the end of his route, where he turns around to go back to the terminal. He stops, turns around, yells, WATCH THIS. hmmmm. He takes off towards the turnaround, hits the brake, and drifts the Onibus, drifts it. Drifts. It. The Onibus. Drifted. Around the dirt turnaround circle. Then, the whole way to the station, he doesn't slow down at all, not even for the speed bumps on the highway (which they have here? odd). Thus, sitting in the back, every time he hits one, I got air. BIG air. We're talking two to three feet off the seat. Fun, absolutely. Scary. Definitely. Did we find out after that he was going to the US the next day to try to be a NASCAR driver? Yes we did.
And FRIDAY again. Like I said, this was a good day. Hot, sweaty, we walked to the edge of our area, also, the edge of our mission. Very hot. We´re in a town/area/place called Olympia. All the streets are named after Olympic events. We teach a lesson on Judo street, very good, cross Tennis Street, Basketball Street, and Gymnastics Art street and end up on Beach Volleyball Street. We teach a lesson to a family of four, two little boys and their parents. The dad, Irmão da Santos Fortunato , has a smoking problem. Big, scary guy, wolf pack, Grampa Bud on a Harley, style full beard. I ask him if he´ll try to stop smoking. He doesn't say a thing, just picks up his son's pvc pipe slingshot and his pack of cigarettes and walks outside. He is launching them, one by one, really letting them fly. He gets to the last one, pulls out a lighter, lights it up, and just stares at it. Then he drops it in the slingshot and sends it. He turns around and tells us that when he bought that pack of cigarettes two days earlier, he told himself that the last cig he lit would be the last one in that pack. Very poetic, lighting and not smoking it, great dude, can´t wait to see where he goes.
Also, last p-day, I tried to get a haircut. Simple enough, I really need one. The lady who cuts hair in our ward wasn't home so we went to a barber. He refused to cut my hair because, in his words, it would be a crime to cut a single one of my hairs. Apparently my hair is pretty nice right now if it causes a barber to refuse money to do his job. I don´t know. Just saying. The hair is flowing right now. And Tanner, sorry, but I think it´s staying.
And thoughts of the spiritual nature. I've been singing a lot and when I sing a hymn, I like to find and read some scriptures for it. I've had this one for a while now but it was in the noggin this week.
D&C 88:63: "Draw near unto me and I will draw near unto you; seek me diligently and ye shall find me; ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened unto you."
Love this because we do do a lot of knocking on doors and I´m constantly amazed how open and receptive people are. It really is a witness to the power and truth of this gospel, people who don´t have it can visibly see a difference in those who do, missionaries and members alike. Having an hour a day to study the scriptures has been wonderful. Everyday, i find answers and can feel myself, almost physically, becoming a better, different person. It´s a weird thought but it has been so evident in this week. The Lord blesses those who strive to serve him and seeing these blessing is a testament that I´m doing, at least trying to do, the right thing, the thing he wants me to do.
I love you, I´m off to get a haircut.
Much Sincerity,
Elder (Almost) Mola Ram
With All My Love
Dear Elder Schenewark,
Another win with last week's letter. I had tears running down my cheeks, laughing with delight at your bed take down description in the letter. You've a gift for capturing the human side of your adventures. Loved your thought at friends, as well. Very sweet.
Your cousin Kaleb was hit by a car this week, and has a cracked knee cap. Aunt Becky received a call from Alaska, letting her know that Kaleb had been directing an elder in the standard backing-up-a-car procedure they use. The elder thought he had put the car in drive, and when he stepped on the gas, it plowed backwards into Kaleb, pinning him against a wall. She got to speak with him, and all's right. He'll be home in twenty days, his normal departure date.And of course your father wants you to remember two things: Don't stand directly behind a car, and if you are, don't have a wall behind you. His sister Kayla's airplane reservations arrived this week.
Today was the annual Primary sacrament meeting program. Our Primary really is quite large. Huge. The music director was fabulous, and had unusual features I've yet to seen until today. Those cute little 3 and 4 year old children took very seriously the hand-behind-her-ear gesture for them to sing more loudly. Dad stayed on the stand, and had a vivacious girl almost grimacing in pain she was trying to sing so loudly. Breyer led off her CTR Six class at the pulpit, and was able to read her part perfectly, standing tall , loud and proud. She looked like Snow White with her white skin and beautiful dark hair. Miller led his class as well, and was a bit quicker, but clear. And they both sang. Your father closed the program with a few remarks. He wears the mantle well.
Hunter called today. His adventures always make me laugh. He sent me a video of him in dance class. I don't know what kind of dance he was doing, so I'll just call it the slide and twirl technique. He looks great. We laughed at the instructor's critique. "Perhaps your elbows need to be a bit higher." "Don't rush the music." Truly,Hunter is good, but even as his mother know he can't make that CD go any faster. He loves his organ shoes / dance shoes he found on Amazon, which enable him to truly slide and twirl. Smoothly. He won a contest at work last week, and used his winnings to purchase a BBQ mini grill to use at his apartment. He had trouble lighting the briquettes but had invited a boy from humble circumstances, who was able to help him. It was inspired as his friend hasn't been able to afford to purchase meat.
Miller wasn't as lucky, but he played hard. Sawyer had an away game that Dad saw in Stephenville. He scored the only touchdown, and had great catches. He also ran in a cross country meet, and came in second for the school. Friday he invited a few friends over to play ball, and play games. I was gone, but Dad anted up and went to the store to grab some boy snacks: Caramel corn, ice cream, beer nuts, soda, pizza...total guy food. They had a ball.
Cooper had a bye in tennis this week. He played the piano in priesthood today. It's all Hunter's doing. He played while he was home in August. He heard Cooper practicing, and passed the torch. Through me. Through Dad. Through Gammons. Cooper needed to be asked by the right person. He played beautifully. Hopefully you're able to tinkle the ivory keys while you're there, and play during church as well.
Tanner and AnneMarie and the baby are all doing well. They're gearing me up in case they can't travel in December. I told them my grandchild would be cooperating. Tanner asked me to redo my top ten reasons why I should get a cell phone list. I don't know if I can come up with ten reasons, as my week was less adventurous, but there are a few new reasons:
4. When Hunter needs a reminder to buy lighter fluid, I would have been there for him.
3. When Breyer is throwing up at the soccer field, she might enjoy talking to her mother.
2. When my son gets backed into by a car driven by his companion, I might want to be able to be reached by the mission president
I'm supposedly on my last week of working nights this week. Next week I should be on day shift, Tuesday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. Drawbacks? Not being help with morning routine and drop offs. It's a lot of driving for Dad. Having to ride the bus. Not being home when they get off the bus. Besides the schedule of being up all night, the main drawback of working nights was not being around for Saturday morning activities for Breyer and Miller. We'll see. Either schedule has me off for Christmas, when you'll be calling. That's all that's important.
First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve have approved the creation of a new stake, the Blackstone Valley Massachusetts Stake, from wards and branches currently in the Boston Massachusetts, Hingham Massachusetts and Springfield Massachusetts stakes. Your grandparents are thrilled to be in the new stake, as their early Foxborough branch is now in this new stake.
Natural disaster headlines this week come from California. The fires are among a series of blazes burning across Northern California that have scorched more than 220,000 acres since they began Oct. 8.th.
As many as 10,000 firefighters from throughout California and surrounding states have battled the fires around the clock. Almost 6,000 buildings destroyed, and 36 people killed. This is one of the largest wildfires ever to have devastated Northern California.
Savannah Irish leaves Wednesday for the MTC, before heading out to Boise, ID on her mission. She has thoroughly enjoyed reading your letters.
Well,that's the news. Now for the love. Can you feel it? Me and you, son. Still remembering your hugs. Love you dearly. Take care.
Love,
Mom
Another win with last week's letter. I had tears running down my cheeks, laughing with delight at your bed take down description in the letter. You've a gift for capturing the human side of your adventures. Loved your thought at friends, as well. Very sweet.
Your cousin Kaleb was hit by a car this week, and has a cracked knee cap. Aunt Becky received a call from Alaska, letting her know that Kaleb had been directing an elder in the standard backing-up-a-car procedure they use. The elder thought he had put the car in drive, and when he stepped on the gas, it plowed backwards into Kaleb, pinning him against a wall. She got to speak with him, and all's right. He'll be home in twenty days, his normal departure date.And of course your father wants you to remember two things: Don't stand directly behind a car, and if you are, don't have a wall behind you. His sister Kayla's airplane reservations arrived this week.
Aunt Joy and Uncle Ben celebrating an anniversary the western way!
Today was the annual Primary sacrament meeting program. Our Primary really is quite large. Huge. The music director was fabulous, and had unusual features I've yet to seen until today. Those cute little 3 and 4 year old children took very seriously the hand-behind-her-ear gesture for them to sing more loudly. Dad stayed on the stand, and had a vivacious girl almost grimacing in pain she was trying to sing so loudly. Breyer led off her CTR Six class at the pulpit, and was able to read her part perfectly, standing tall , loud and proud. She looked like Snow White with her white skin and beautiful dark hair. Miller led his class as well, and was a bit quicker, but clear. And they both sang. Your father closed the program with a few remarks. He wears the mantle well.
Hunter called today. His adventures always make me laugh. He sent me a video of him in dance class. I don't know what kind of dance he was doing, so I'll just call it the slide and twirl technique. He looks great. We laughed at the instructor's critique. "Perhaps your elbows need to be a bit higher." "Don't rush the music." Truly,Hunter is good, but even as his mother know he can't make that CD go any faster. He loves his organ shoes / dance shoes he found on Amazon, which enable him to truly slide and twirl. Smoothly. He won a contest at work last week, and used his winnings to purchase a BBQ mini grill to use at his apartment. He had trouble lighting the briquettes but had invited a boy from humble circumstances, who was able to help him. It was inspired as his friend hasn't been able to afford to purchase meat.
Your sister made three goals yesterday in her game. No vomiting
Tanner and AnneMarie and the baby are all doing well. They're gearing me up in case they can't travel in December. I told them my grandchild would be cooperating. Tanner asked me to redo my top ten reasons why I should get a cell phone list. I don't know if I can come up with ten reasons, as my week was less adventurous, but there are a few new reasons:
4. When Hunter needs a reminder to buy lighter fluid, I would have been there for him.
3. When Breyer is throwing up at the soccer field, she might enjoy talking to her mother.
2. When my son gets backed into by a car driven by his companion, I might want to be able to be reached by the mission president
1. When my daughter in law goes into labor, I might want a phone call.
I'm supposedly on my last week of working nights this week. Next week I should be on day shift, Tuesday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. Drawbacks? Not being help with morning routine and drop offs. It's a lot of driving for Dad. Having to ride the bus. Not being home when they get off the bus. Besides the schedule of being up all night, the main drawback of working nights was not being around for Saturday morning activities for Breyer and Miller. We'll see. Either schedule has me off for Christmas, when you'll be calling. That's all that's important.
First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve have approved the creation of a new stake, the Blackstone Valley Massachusetts Stake, from wards and branches currently in the Boston Massachusetts, Hingham Massachusetts and Springfield Massachusetts stakes. Your grandparents are thrilled to be in the new stake, as their early Foxborough branch is now in this new stake.
Natural disaster headlines this week come from California. The fires are among a series of blazes burning across Northern California that have scorched more than 220,000 acres since they began Oct. 8.th.
As many as 10,000 firefighters from throughout California and surrounding states have battled the fires around the clock. Almost 6,000 buildings destroyed, and 36 people killed. This is one of the largest wildfires ever to have devastated Northern California.
Savannah Irish leaves Wednesday for the MTC, before heading out to Boise, ID on her mission. She has thoroughly enjoyed reading your letters.
Well,that's the news. Now for the love. Can you feel it? Me and you, son. Still remembering your hugs. Love you dearly. Take care.
Love,
Mom
Saturday, October 14, 2017
Thursday, October 12, 2017
Words for the Wingmen
Dear Family,
Autumn has fallen. Leaves are gold and red all over the mountainside. We celebrated last week by driving the Alpine loop and this week we walked along the Provo River trail from Bridal Veil falls northward.
Last week we also made a road trip up to General Conference. Hunter and I attended the Priesthood Session and afterwards grabbed some Cafe Rio together for dinner which, with my super-secret September coupon came out to $4.00 for both of us :) Sunday we were joined by Abbey, Stevie, and AnneMarie as we attended the Sunday afternoon session. Our seats were prime for both sessions, lower central plaza and we got there in time to save ones closer to the front. More importantly, it was a spiritual feast and I'm looking forward to rereading the messages in the days and weeks to come. Saturday morning session stuck out in my mind as particularly memorable session.
After conference we enjoyed having everyone back at the ranch for a red wine pot roast and games. As Elder Schenewark would probably say, "Gourmet, yuhh." Stevie also whipped up an impressive batch of choco-chip cookies to send everyone there into full food coma mode. Good times and even greater company.
Some notable events from this week: AnneMarie and I attended the BYU Baseball Fall scrimmage while everyone else watched the BYU football team lose to Boise State. We were the real winners because with free admission, $1 BYU Creamery ice cream and churros, and our selection of seats to choose from what else can you want from a sporting event?
Job news: After deliberating with AnneMarie and my company VP, I turned down an opportunity for promotion at work. The reason I gave work was that it would be unfair for them to give me this opportunity now because I will most likely miss a sizable portion of work in November and December due to a surgery, a baby, and the Holidays. Complicating those concerns, but unbeknownst to work, I have the LSAT and my law school applications ongoing as well. Quite possible that the same opportunity will come up in January or March and if so I'll be the first in line so no sleep lost over this chance. Feels good to have been considered.
Primary kids have the best one liners. Today's lesson was on being worthy and the teacher started using the example of what Aaronic Priesthood holders need to do in order to maintain their worthiness. One young boy picked up on the similarity between "ironic" and "Aaronic" and when the teacher stopped talking blurted out (non sequitur), "I find that highly Aaronic."
Another child was asked how he honored and served his parents: "I ALWAYS flush the toilet," he said.
AnneMarie and Baby ____ are coming along well. We had a slight scare earlier this week when AnneMarie's blood pressure spiked Friday and then again on Tuesday. We spent the afternoon in the hospital (I left work before lunch to go with AnneMarie) where they determined everything was fine, no worry of preeclampsia. So, we enjoyed our dry run of the Hospital, checked ourselves out and got lunch. Love it when a plan comes together :) She was back in the Dr's office Friday for a normal visit and everything was perfect, right on track for a Thanksgiving arrival.
Lastly, speaking of getting back on track, I'm continuing my dance with the Cross Fit gym, and I'm happy to say that I feel better than I have in a long while. This week I did my first kipping pull-up (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEf1ROvIEhc) and I've gained a significant portion of weight back putting me around 178 for the first time in a long while.
In spiritual fitness news, AnneMarie and I renewed our temple recommends for the first time since getting married and it was a sweet experience, as made by the Spirit, to declare oneself worthy to enter the House of the Lord.
We Love You All,
Tanner and AnneMarie
Autumn has fallen. Leaves are gold and red all over the mountainside. We celebrated last week by driving the Alpine loop and this week we walked along the Provo River trail from Bridal Veil falls northward.
Last week we also made a road trip up to General Conference. Hunter and I attended the Priesthood Session and afterwards grabbed some Cafe Rio together for dinner which, with my super-secret September coupon came out to $4.00 for both of us :) Sunday we were joined by Abbey, Stevie, and AnneMarie as we attended the Sunday afternoon session. Our seats were prime for both sessions, lower central plaza and we got there in time to save ones closer to the front. More importantly, it was a spiritual feast and I'm looking forward to rereading the messages in the days and weeks to come. Saturday morning session stuck out in my mind as particularly memorable session.
After conference we enjoyed having everyone back at the ranch for a red wine pot roast and games. As Elder Schenewark would probably say, "Gourmet, yuhh." Stevie also whipped up an impressive batch of choco-chip cookies to send everyone there into full food coma mode. Good times and even greater company.
Some notable events from this week: AnneMarie and I attended the BYU Baseball Fall scrimmage while everyone else watched the BYU football team lose to Boise State. We were the real winners because with free admission, $1 BYU Creamery ice cream and churros, and our selection of seats to choose from what else can you want from a sporting event?
Job news: After deliberating with AnneMarie and my company VP, I turned down an opportunity for promotion at work. The reason I gave work was that it would be unfair for them to give me this opportunity now because I will most likely miss a sizable portion of work in November and December due to a surgery, a baby, and the Holidays. Complicating those concerns, but unbeknownst to work, I have the LSAT and my law school applications ongoing as well. Quite possible that the same opportunity will come up in January or March and if so I'll be the first in line so no sleep lost over this chance. Feels good to have been considered.
Primary kids have the best one liners. Today's lesson was on being worthy and the teacher started using the example of what Aaronic Priesthood holders need to do in order to maintain their worthiness. One young boy picked up on the similarity between "ironic" and "Aaronic" and when the teacher stopped talking blurted out (non sequitur), "I find that highly Aaronic."
Another child was asked how he honored and served his parents: "I ALWAYS flush the toilet," he said.
AnneMarie and Baby ____ are coming along well. We had a slight scare earlier this week when AnneMarie's blood pressure spiked Friday and then again on Tuesday. We spent the afternoon in the hospital (I left work before lunch to go with AnneMarie) where they determined everything was fine, no worry of preeclampsia. So, we enjoyed our dry run of the Hospital, checked ourselves out and got lunch. Love it when a plan comes together :) She was back in the Dr's office Friday for a normal visit and everything was perfect, right on track for a Thanksgiving arrival.
Lastly, speaking of getting back on track, I'm continuing my dance with the Cross Fit gym, and I'm happy to say that I feel better than I have in a long while. This week I did my first kipping pull-up (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEf1ROvIEhc) and I've gained a significant portion of weight back putting me around 178 for the first time in a long while.
In spiritual fitness news, AnneMarie and I renewed our temple recommends for the first time since getting married and it was a sweet experience, as made by the Spirit, to declare oneself worthy to enter the House of the Lord.
We Love You All,
Tanner and AnneMarie
Wednesday, October 11, 2017
Tuesday, October 10, 2017
College Correspondent
Dear Family,
Happy Columbus Day!
Quick recap of the week:
Monday- Homework tried to smash me. I won, but it wasn't easy.
Tuesday- Our dance teacher filmed us practicing and provided feedback, in preparation for the championship in November. But the video is too big to post...
Wednesday- We had a practice dance tournament. Unfortunately, I didn't make it as far as I thought I could or should. But, getting out earlier than anticipated allowed me to go to the annual Texas party for BYU texans. It was a blast, and especially memorable as walking in, two friends from the MTC saw me and we were able to catch up.
Thursday- I elected to write a recreational essay, answering the prompt, "In the age of "doing what feels right," are there moral absolutes? How can you tell?" This Friday they will announce the finalists, who are competing for $3500 in prize money.
Friday- After working at GPS Capital, I went straight to my job at the BYU football game. BYU lost to Boise State, their fifth straight loss, and I made it home at 1 am to finish 17 hours of work.
Saturday- Yeah, I slept in. Then, I gave my room a needed organizing and cleaning. Afterwards, it was off to a BYU chess tournament. We I finished tied for 4-5, out of 7, winning once, and losing twice. I expected it, as I haven't been keeping up with the game. I lost one disappointingly with some errors that can be attributed to rustiness, but lost another getting wrecked and thoroughly outplayed. I spent most of the rest of the day reading.
Sunday- Church, including our first family history class. Tanner and Annemarie came over and we enjoyed some time together. And then I went to SLC to the Cathedral of the Madeleine for an organ concert. The organ was behind us on the second story, so they put up a screen for us to see. It was incredible, especially the last piece. Someone handed the organist (from France) an envelope and he opened it, and it contained only two lines of music. So, using that as inspiration, he composed and played on the spot for the next ten. So impressed were we, that after a rousing ovation, he returned and composed and played another variation on the same theme.
Hunter
Happy Columbus Day!
Quick recap of the week:
Monday- Homework tried to smash me. I won, but it wasn't easy.
Tuesday- Our dance teacher filmed us practicing and provided feedback, in preparation for the championship in November. But the video is too big to post...
Wednesday- We had a practice dance tournament. Unfortunately, I didn't make it as far as I thought I could or should. But, getting out earlier than anticipated allowed me to go to the annual Texas party for BYU texans. It was a blast, and especially memorable as walking in, two friends from the MTC saw me and we were able to catch up.
Thursday- I elected to write a recreational essay, answering the prompt, "In the age of "doing what feels right," are there moral absolutes? How can you tell?" This Friday they will announce the finalists, who are competing for $3500 in prize money.
Friday- After working at GPS Capital, I went straight to my job at the BYU football game. BYU lost to Boise State, their fifth straight loss, and I made it home at 1 am to finish 17 hours of work.
Saturday- Yeah, I slept in. Then, I gave my room a needed organizing and cleaning. Afterwards, it was off to a BYU chess tournament. We I finished tied for 4-5, out of 7, winning once, and losing twice. I expected it, as I haven't been keeping up with the game. I lost one disappointingly with some errors that can be attributed to rustiness, but lost another getting wrecked and thoroughly outplayed. I spent most of the rest of the day reading.
Hunter
Monday, October 9, 2017
Letter #9
Dear Family,
First, I've had this quote going through my head all week, I'll explain it later, just a teaser....
Love, it's what makes a Subaru a Subaru.
Oh baby, this week was highlighted by one simple event, so pure. I'd like to dedicate it to all my high school, college, and mission friends who made fun of what I called this....
To all those who corrected me, calling it a "roundabout," a wagonwheel, or a "rotunda," let me introduce to you the Portuguese name for this - -rotaria-.
WOW, that´s really similar to what Elder Schenewark calls them, he must be right because, hey, his name for them, rotary, is interlingual. Just saying
Now, missionary stuffffs that happened - interesting facts I never knew:
-If a cockroach is on its back and you step on it, it makes a pop like a firecracker
- There are seats reserved for the obese on buses in Brazil. If an obese person gets on the bus, you will be asked to move (not me personally but..)
- A rather interesting sausage can be made by grinding and stuffing a casing with cow tongue and hot peppers (5.4/10)
AND, my sometimes weekly shoutout to Elder Clifford.....For those of you who don´t know, Elder Clifford sleeps with both of his eyes halfway open. This week, during lunch with the lady with the floppy arm, she fell asleep at the table, sitting up. Turns out she sleeps with one eye completely closed and one eye COMPLETELY open. Very creepy. Anyways, much love to Elder Clifford
So, service. This same lady asked us to take apart a bed she needs put into storage. The tool she hands me, an awl. Not sure if she thought it was a screwdriver, but it was definitely not made for removing screws. Thus, this is what I used to dis-assemble this bed:
A key
An awl
A butter knife
Toenail clippers (recently used)
Various assorted Brazilian coinage
Icy Hot spray on relief
and, a fidget spinner*
All were used, all of the ones with an astrisk were used by my companion. After trying for two minutes, he deemed it impossible, and played with a fidget spinner for the next two hours. Well, I got that bed apart, yes sir. I had blood dripping on my pants from the cuts on my hands and tears rolling down my face from the icy hot in said cuts. But that bed is no longer together. I can do hard things
yuh
Another story, we were walking in the streets and this plane buzzed over our heads, I kid you not probably 100 feet off the ground TOPS. A little scary. Then he takes off into a steep climb, until he´s literally vertical, way up there. Then he, on my honor, cuts his engine and just lets gravity take its effect. Then, he straightened out, glided for a sec, and restarted his engine. What a baller. He was doing loops and spins and all sorts of crazy stuff after that but yeah, WOW. And then, I was staring at the plane and was like, hey I recognize that plane. It looks like a Spitfire? The man was straight up flying crazy in a genuine Spitfire, IF I`M THINKING OF THE RIGHT PLANE, correct me if I´m not, but, he had the green camoflauge, the one propeller, and the kicker, the red and blue circles on the wings. I don´t know how or where he got it but just to reiterate, this man was putting on an airshow in a WWII era single seat fighter plane, for me and my companion.
Also, just a casual picture of Campinas for those wondering what it looks like. This is the view from the temple.
And last weird thing, it was just a week of weird, the update on the floppy arm/dog kicker marriage. He got her a present. It's a palm tree, I think, in a toilet bowl. Honestly, very impressed by the thought and the aesthetic qualities it has.
And now, to explain the quote.
I have no idea why it popped into my head but it did. And, as I was thinking about the quote, the events in Las Vegas (recieved courtesy of Caractacus Merritt last Monday morning), and various events of this week, I just had the thought: Love is what makes a missionary a missionary. Every here asks me if I´m homesick, and honestly I´m not. I miss my family, yes, but not to a homesick level. I think what helps that a lot is the fact that almost all my friends are on missions too. If I were to go home, I would see family yes, but not my friends. Then I found this scripture in Doctrine and Coventant Section 121, verses 7-9:
My son, peace be unto thy soul; thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment;
And then, if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high; thou shalt triumph over all thy foes.
Thy friends do stand by thee, and they shall hail thee again with warm hearts and friendly hands.
I love that, especially the last verse: thy friends do stand by thee and they shall hail thee again. As a missionary, you have to make sacrifices. I´m giving up two years of my life, with my family, with everything I've known, to be here in Brazil. That´s a big thing that sometimes I think I overlook. But, thinking about this really puts things into perspective. There is a reason that I am making this sacrifice, and that my friends are as well. That reason is love. It´s a hard thing that we´re doing, but we're doing it out of love. Love for our families, love for this gospel, love for these people. And I do find myself loving them more and more each day, through the struggles, through the toilet paperless days, through the spitting, and even through pounds upon pounds of rice and beans. Every day, being out here becomes a little easier, not because I don´t miss my family, not because the language is coming easier, none of those things. It´s still hard. It´s easier because I´m finding love where I didn´t have it before. And this is a blessing. I'm so thankful for the family and friends holding down the fort back home, and also for the examples that other friends are, serving in Japan, Hong Kong, the US, the Philippines, wherever. You all give me strength each day. And thank you for that.
I love you all, I´m thinking of you,
Love,
Elder Inspector Gadget
First, I've had this quote going through my head all week, I'll explain it later, just a teaser....
Love, it's what makes a Subaru a Subaru.
Oh baby, this week was highlighted by one simple event, so pure. I'd like to dedicate it to all my high school, college, and mission friends who made fun of what I called this....
To all those who corrected me, calling it a "roundabout," a wagonwheel, or a "rotunda," let me introduce to you the Portuguese name for this - -rotaria-.
WOW, that´s really similar to what Elder Schenewark calls them, he must be right because, hey, his name for them, rotary, is interlingual. Just saying
Now, missionary stuffffs that happened - interesting facts I never knew:
-If a cockroach is on its back and you step on it, it makes a pop like a firecracker
- There are seats reserved for the obese on buses in Brazil. If an obese person gets on the bus, you will be asked to move (not me personally but..)
- A rather interesting sausage can be made by grinding and stuffing a casing with cow tongue and hot peppers (5.4/10)
AND, my sometimes weekly shoutout to Elder Clifford.....For those of you who don´t know, Elder Clifford sleeps with both of his eyes halfway open. This week, during lunch with the lady with the floppy arm, she fell asleep at the table, sitting up. Turns out she sleeps with one eye completely closed and one eye COMPLETELY open. Very creepy. Anyways, much love to Elder Clifford
So, service. This same lady asked us to take apart a bed she needs put into storage. The tool she hands me, an awl. Not sure if she thought it was a screwdriver, but it was definitely not made for removing screws. Thus, this is what I used to dis-assemble this bed:
A key
An awl
A butter knife
Toenail clippers (recently used)
Various assorted Brazilian coinage
Icy Hot spray on relief
and, a fidget spinner*
All were used, all of the ones with an astrisk were used by my companion. After trying for two minutes, he deemed it impossible, and played with a fidget spinner for the next two hours. Well, I got that bed apart, yes sir. I had blood dripping on my pants from the cuts on my hands and tears rolling down my face from the icy hot in said cuts. But that bed is no longer together. I can do hard things
yuh
Another story, we were walking in the streets and this plane buzzed over our heads, I kid you not probably 100 feet off the ground TOPS. A little scary. Then he takes off into a steep climb, until he´s literally vertical, way up there. Then he, on my honor, cuts his engine and just lets gravity take its effect. Then, he straightened out, glided for a sec, and restarted his engine. What a baller. He was doing loops and spins and all sorts of crazy stuff after that but yeah, WOW. And then, I was staring at the plane and was like, hey I recognize that plane. It looks like a Spitfire? The man was straight up flying crazy in a genuine Spitfire, IF I`M THINKING OF THE RIGHT PLANE, correct me if I´m not, but, he had the green camoflauge, the one propeller, and the kicker, the red and blue circles on the wings. I don´t know how or where he got it but just to reiterate, this man was putting on an airshow in a WWII era single seat fighter plane, for me and my companion.
Also, just a casual picture of Campinas for those wondering what it looks like. This is the view from the temple.
And last weird thing, it was just a week of weird, the update on the floppy arm/dog kicker marriage. He got her a present. It's a palm tree, I think, in a toilet bowl. Honestly, very impressed by the thought and the aesthetic qualities it has.
And now, to explain the quote.
I have no idea why it popped into my head but it did. And, as I was thinking about the quote, the events in Las Vegas (recieved courtesy of Caractacus Merritt last Monday morning), and various events of this week, I just had the thought: Love is what makes a missionary a missionary. Every here asks me if I´m homesick, and honestly I´m not. I miss my family, yes, but not to a homesick level. I think what helps that a lot is the fact that almost all my friends are on missions too. If I were to go home, I would see family yes, but not my friends. Then I found this scripture in Doctrine and Coventant Section 121, verses 7-9:
My son, peace be unto thy soul; thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment;
And then, if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high; thou shalt triumph over all thy foes.
Thy friends do stand by thee, and they shall hail thee again with warm hearts and friendly hands.
I love that, especially the last verse: thy friends do stand by thee and they shall hail thee again. As a missionary, you have to make sacrifices. I´m giving up two years of my life, with my family, with everything I've known, to be here in Brazil. That´s a big thing that sometimes I think I overlook. But, thinking about this really puts things into perspective. There is a reason that I am making this sacrifice, and that my friends are as well. That reason is love. It´s a hard thing that we´re doing, but we're doing it out of love. Love for our families, love for this gospel, love for these people. And I do find myself loving them more and more each day, through the struggles, through the toilet paperless days, through the spitting, and even through pounds upon pounds of rice and beans. Every day, being out here becomes a little easier, not because I don´t miss my family, not because the language is coming easier, none of those things. It´s still hard. It´s easier because I´m finding love where I didn´t have it before. And this is a blessing. I'm so thankful for the family and friends holding down the fort back home, and also for the examples that other friends are, serving in Japan, Hong Kong, the US, the Philippines, wherever. You all give me strength each day. And thank you for that.
I love you all, I´m thinking of you,
Love,
Elder Inspector Gadget
Sunday, October 8, 2017
With All My Love
Elder Schenewark,
Another fine week with your letter writing. Your stories have me laughing out loud. Your testimony had me in tears. Of course you glowed. I miss you more than you will know. That's not a bad thing to share, as along with missing you is pride for your sacrifice, your ability to include others, to enjoy life, and serve others. You've a sweet heart.
Elder Rasband's tie was red. It was Elder Renlund's, Priesthood session. It reminded me of our Egyptian costumes. If I was good I'd have a picture to help remind you. But I'm not that good. I did find a sweet picture, though, of you and Breyer. You were always the only boy that wanted a sister.
This week in sports. Cooper had an away tennis match, won both his sets. Sawyer had an away football game. There was no C team, so he didn't get that much playing time, but the playing time he did get was worth it. Tackling and blocking for touchdowns he says he lead his team to victory. Plus the rain was a torrential downpour. Miller had a bye in soccer. So the play of the week comes from Breyer. She had a soccer game. Scored five goals. Usually there are eight girls, and four go in at a time for each quarter. She'll usually play two quarters. Saturday there were only four games total. And one just stood and cried. So really there were three girls, and they had to play all four quarters. By the middle of the fourth quarter, on a sunny approaching hot Texas morning Breyer wasn't feeling great. And she shared with all by vomiting on the field. The game continued on, four against now two, with her coach trying to let the referee know about the clean up needed in the box. Your brothers have all thought this hilarious. Breyer ate a doughnut for breakfast with a big gulp of orange juice. She enjoyed seeing her sprinkles all over the grass. And all is well again with her tummy.
Have you heard about the Las Vegas shooting? It happened last Saturday early Sunday morning and my letter had already been composed. A lone gunman reserved a hotel room on the strip to fire down on a crowd of thousands gathered for an outdoor country music concert in the parking lot of the hotel. 58 died, almost 500 injured, all within ten minutes. What's being termed the worst mass shooting in modern U.S. history is asking many questions as to motive, and how could he amass such a large cache of weapons, including bump stocks that convert semi rifles to fully automatic. The police were able to target his location because his firing of weapons triggered the room's smoke detector.
I mention this as your lovely sister-in-law is from Vegas, and is connected to many of the concert attendees and injured. Coincidentally or not she struggled with issues related to her pregnancy, and had a rough week. All is well. Keep her and your niece in your prayers. She has six weeks left.
Tanner and AnneMarie celebrate their two year anniversary this week. Unbelievable. Unbelievably good. So glad she's in our family. She's enjoyed wearing the ring you ordered from China. Her wedding band does not fit her finger at this point. Thank you for that. It is really close to her real ring in appearance.
Your grandfather spent a few days in the hospital for an infection this week. He's home and on infusions and doing so much better.
Hunter provides our comic relief this week. He gave us a Skype view of his room. He has a nice Costco stash in the corner, and a bike in the closet. He made pumpkin pie forgetting the sugar. He purchased organ shoes, and uses them for dancing. Or the other way around. He's proud of his flexible sole shoes.
We talked about the Willie handcart company experience today in Sunday School, and the teacher asked, "What did they feel when they were rescued?" The follow up question was, "Have you ever been rescued, and how did you feel?" Of course she was speaking in a figurative sense but my thoughts jumped to when the 200 pound cattle ramp fell on my legs, pinning me to the ground. I don't remember being rescued, but have often thought of how I was protected, and moved at the last moment so it wasn't on my head and neck. But you are rescuing now. A search and recover mission for souls looking for more.
I'll close with some love words from your god parents: "Words can’t express how much we love your little family, each and every one of them. For several decades you have brought such joy and gladness to our hearts. I can still see little Porter sneaking under the church pews to sit between us and play with all the treasures Sis. B. would put in her bag every week. Had we known then how much impact Porter and all his siblings would have on our lives, we would have pulled him under the pew to us even sooner. We love ya’all." We do love you. All of us. All of you.
Take care of yourself.
Be careful.
Love,
Mom
Another fine week with your letter writing. Your stories have me laughing out loud. Your testimony had me in tears. Of course you glowed. I miss you more than you will know. That's not a bad thing to share, as along with missing you is pride for your sacrifice, your ability to include others, to enjoy life, and serve others. You've a sweet heart.
Elder Rasband's tie was red. It was Elder Renlund's, Priesthood session. It reminded me of our Egyptian costumes. If I was good I'd have a picture to help remind you. But I'm not that good. I did find a sweet picture, though, of you and Breyer. You were always the only boy that wanted a sister.
This week in sports. Cooper had an away tennis match, won both his sets. Sawyer had an away football game. There was no C team, so he didn't get that much playing time, but the playing time he did get was worth it. Tackling and blocking for touchdowns he says he lead his team to victory. Plus the rain was a torrential downpour. Miller had a bye in soccer. So the play of the week comes from Breyer. She had a soccer game. Scored five goals. Usually there are eight girls, and four go in at a time for each quarter. She'll usually play two quarters. Saturday there were only four games total. And one just stood and cried. So really there were three girls, and they had to play all four quarters. By the middle of the fourth quarter, on a sunny approaching hot Texas morning Breyer wasn't feeling great. And she shared with all by vomiting on the field. The game continued on, four against now two, with her coach trying to let the referee know about the clean up needed in the box. Your brothers have all thought this hilarious. Breyer ate a doughnut for breakfast with a big gulp of orange juice. She enjoyed seeing her sprinkles all over the grass. And all is well again with her tummy.
Have you heard about the Las Vegas shooting? It happened last Saturday early Sunday morning and my letter had already been composed. A lone gunman reserved a hotel room on the strip to fire down on a crowd of thousands gathered for an outdoor country music concert in the parking lot of the hotel. 58 died, almost 500 injured, all within ten minutes. What's being termed the worst mass shooting in modern U.S. history is asking many questions as to motive, and how could he amass such a large cache of weapons, including bump stocks that convert semi rifles to fully automatic. The police were able to target his location because his firing of weapons triggered the room's smoke detector.
I mention this as your lovely sister-in-law is from Vegas, and is connected to many of the concert attendees and injured. Coincidentally or not she struggled with issues related to her pregnancy, and had a rough week. All is well. Keep her and your niece in your prayers. She has six weeks left.
Tanner and AnneMarie celebrate their two year anniversary this week. Unbelievable. Unbelievably good. So glad she's in our family. She's enjoyed wearing the ring you ordered from China. Her wedding band does not fit her finger at this point. Thank you for that. It is really close to her real ring in appearance.
Your grandfather spent a few days in the hospital for an infection this week. He's home and on infusions and doing so much better.
Hunter provides our comic relief this week. He gave us a Skype view of his room. He has a nice Costco stash in the corner, and a bike in the closet. He made pumpkin pie forgetting the sugar. He purchased organ shoes, and uses them for dancing. Or the other way around. He's proud of his flexible sole shoes.
We talked about the Willie handcart company experience today in Sunday School, and the teacher asked, "What did they feel when they were rescued?" The follow up question was, "Have you ever been rescued, and how did you feel?" Of course she was speaking in a figurative sense but my thoughts jumped to when the 200 pound cattle ramp fell on my legs, pinning me to the ground. I don't remember being rescued, but have often thought of how I was protected, and moved at the last moment so it wasn't on my head and neck. But you are rescuing now. A search and recover mission for souls looking for more.
I'll close with some love words from your god parents: "Words can’t express how much we love your little family, each and every one of them. For several decades you have brought such joy and gladness to our hearts. I can still see little Porter sneaking under the church pews to sit between us and play with all the treasures Sis. B. would put in her bag every week. Had we known then how much impact Porter and all his siblings would have on our lives, we would have pulled him under the pew to us even sooner. We love ya’all." We do love you. All of us. All of you.
Take care of yourself.
Be careful.
Love,
Mom
Friday, October 6, 2017
Thursday, October 5, 2017
Wednesday, October 4, 2017
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