Let's be realistic, whatever else happened, Nora was still going to be the highlight of the week. She entered the world Friday, weighing 7.5 pounds, and measuring 20 inches. Not so sure why we always put these statistics out there, but for what they're worth, you have them. More interesting is the fact that she has dark hair, no eyebrows, or eyelashes, or teeth, doesn't cry much (yet,) hasn't eaten steak before, and loves Uncle Hunter. That's Nora. Tanner says she is "perceptive." I didn't get past "heavenly." I went over Saturday night, held and rocked her for a little and then relinquished her to Annemarie. It was amazing to think that just a short time before, she was in heaven.
Now for the filler. This week was Thanksgiving break. As previously stated, Monday I enjoyed work and had lunch with Pres. Young. Tuesday I had a free day. I went to school and worked on some assignments, mostly genealogy and was thrilled with progress in the Gerken-Hesse line. More to come hopefully. My professor was helping me, and I don't exaggerate when I say that what I could have done in weeks, he accomplished in minutes. My roommates all went out of town for the break, so I was left with the apartment to myself. Tuesday and Wednesday nights, I discovered that ABC puts up Shark Tank episodes on their website, and enjoyed watching some. My bedtime averaged before 10 pm for the week, which probably hasn't happened since I was 12 And I woke up about 6 each day, able to work out and read and relax a little in the morning. A welcome respite from the usual school and work.
Originally planning to go with Tanmarie and her parents for thanksgiving at an extended family member's house, I opted for Uncle Ben's instead. We had a Thanksgiving feast, and it was nice to spend time, the whole day, with family. Sarah W. came down from Idaho, and that was a great surprise. We decided to do something on Saturday, and my first idea, was a game night. Sort of spur of the moment but it worked out. About 15 people came over, and we played some ice-breaker games, code name, and one other which had me laughing until I cried. But, to play it, it requires people never having played it before. Thus, I shall wait. I made cranberry muffins, sugar cookies, and put out chips and salsa for snacks. And water of course. The cranberry muffins turned out slightly burnt, and a bit misshapen, and not wanting to sit on 24 muffins, I impressed myself by creating simple placards on index cards which read "Chips+Salsa." "Cups for water." "Sugar cookies." "World Famous Ugly+Delicious Cranberry Muffins." Incredibly, it worked and 20 muffins were eaten, and people were complimenting them, and leaving the sugar cookies which actually tasted good, much better than the muffins, relatively untouched.
Other noteworthy happenings: I unfortunately did not finish my paper for the BYU Religious Symposium. Looks like it'll have to be next year. I went to Swigs with a roommate on Friday. Its supposed to be a fantastic soda parlor. I ordered an Italian Soda and it was horrible!!! I had never been there before but have heard such good things. Now, I will have to return and try something else, just to see if its that bad, or if they forgot something in my drink. Like sugar.
Fique Firme!!!
Wednesday, November 29, 2017
Monday, November 27, 2017
Letter #16
First off, had Black Friday this week. Which brought back memories from last year, involving a UHaul truck, Uber, a train, romance movies with the boys, just a good time.
I got hit by a parrot this week, not in the he hit me with something, but he flew into me. I hate parrots.
But, I also got hit by another bird, this time in the other sense. A nice early Christmas present dropped from the sky. Luckily it only glanced a hand. Got licked right off...
Met Patrick Stewart´s dopple ganger. Right before I told him, he told me I looked like Billy Crystal. Hmm, not seein' that one but I´ll take it.
I got stung by three wasps this week, all in the face. Two on the same cheekbone, maybe ten minutes apart, not pleasant, and one on the other side temple. Looking a little lumpy.
Had lunch with a family, the husband was a casual millionaire who loves basketball (yuh) and thus me, and also knows Anderson Varejo and told me that if Brazil comes back from the world cup thing early, he´ll introduce me. #Willbaptize. Didn´t know he wasn´t playing in the NBA anymore.Also, his wife was a self proclaimed, and studied, Communist. It was an interesting lunch to say the least.
Other highlight, we had another walk through a field to 'cut time.' It didn´t work. While we tried to decide to press on, a herd of cows found it´s way behind us. I´m not going to be pushing my way through the cows, and resulting cow pies, so we pressed on. Over a pipe ten feet above the river, looked really cool, but we all know I´m not a picture guy. I´ll try harder.
I almost fought a perfume salesman. We were walking back home at night, dark, through a small alley. Two guys are coming the other way, on big and chunky and black, and the other just looked like a greasy sleeze. Then he spoke and he was like "Hey guys, lemme show you whats in this bag"
I almost swung, lemme tell you, he was just perfectly imitating a movie alley robbery or something, where he pulls out a gun or something. But he pulled out perfume. Got two free spritzes instead of a friendly neighborhood robbery. Twas nice. Also, cologne here is way too expensive.
And lastly. Curiosity killed the cat. Literally. We were at this house, right?, doing our thing. Suddenly we hear this screech, thump thump thump thump.................The cat, retched thing, had tried to see into the running washing machine with a broken lid. and slipped. And just got destroyed. The clothes too. Not a pretty sight or smell or just wow, yeah, effectively ended our visit there. But, he shouldn't have been looking where he shouldn't have been looking. So, he got pummeled.
Luckily for us, the one responsible for us is a lot more forgiving, and he doesn't punish us for being curious WHEN we are searching and looking for worthwhile, good things. If we have a question or problem, we can take it to Him and He will give us the answers we need.
James 1:5 "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."
If you have a question, ask and you will receive, that is one of my favorite promises of the gospel.
It may not be the answer we are expecting, or that we want, but we will receive that answer. I love you all, merry Thanksgiving, happy December.
Love,
Elder Uncle
I got hit by a parrot this week, not in the he hit me with something, but he flew into me. I hate parrots.
But, I also got hit by another bird, this time in the other sense. A nice early Christmas present dropped from the sky. Luckily it only glanced a hand. Got licked right off...
Met Patrick Stewart´s dopple ganger. Right before I told him, he told me I looked like Billy Crystal. Hmm, not seein' that one but I´ll take it.
I got stung by three wasps this week, all in the face. Two on the same cheekbone, maybe ten minutes apart, not pleasant, and one on the other side temple. Looking a little lumpy.
Had lunch with a family, the husband was a casual millionaire who loves basketball (yuh) and thus me, and also knows Anderson Varejo and told me that if Brazil comes back from the world cup thing early, he´ll introduce me. #Willbaptize. Didn´t know he wasn´t playing in the NBA anymore.Also, his wife was a self proclaimed, and studied, Communist. It was an interesting lunch to say the least.
Other highlight, we had another walk through a field to 'cut time.' It didn´t work. While we tried to decide to press on, a herd of cows found it´s way behind us. I´m not going to be pushing my way through the cows, and resulting cow pies, so we pressed on. Over a pipe ten feet above the river, looked really cool, but we all know I´m not a picture guy. I´ll try harder.
I almost fought a perfume salesman. We were walking back home at night, dark, through a small alley. Two guys are coming the other way, on big and chunky and black, and the other just looked like a greasy sleeze. Then he spoke and he was like "Hey guys, lemme show you whats in this bag"
I almost swung, lemme tell you, he was just perfectly imitating a movie alley robbery or something, where he pulls out a gun or something. But he pulled out perfume. Got two free spritzes instead of a friendly neighborhood robbery. Twas nice. Also, cologne here is way too expensive.
And lastly. Curiosity killed the cat. Literally. We were at this house, right?, doing our thing. Suddenly we hear this screech, thump thump thump thump.................The cat, retched thing, had tried to see into the running washing machine with a broken lid. and slipped. And just got destroyed. The clothes too. Not a pretty sight or smell or just wow, yeah, effectively ended our visit there. But, he shouldn't have been looking where he shouldn't have been looking. So, he got pummeled.
Luckily for us, the one responsible for us is a lot more forgiving, and he doesn't punish us for being curious WHEN we are searching and looking for worthwhile, good things. If we have a question or problem, we can take it to Him and He will give us the answers we need.
James 1:5 "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."
If you have a question, ask and you will receive, that is one of my favorite promises of the gospel.
It may not be the answer we are expecting, or that we want, but we will receive that answer. I love you all, merry Thanksgiving, happy December.
Love,
Elder Uncle
Sunday, November 26, 2017
With All Our Love
Dear Elder Schenewark,
The most exciting news of the week is your niece has arrived, right on her due date. AnneMarie was able to enjoy her Thanksgiving dinner before the contractions really began. By 3 a.m. they were at the hospital, where she was determined to be showing enough signs of labor to be admitted. Twelve and a half hours later baby Nora was born; Nora Marie weighed in at 7 lbs. and 5 oz. 20” long, with lots of dark hair. She’s adorable. Just enough squishiness, and big cheeks. I’m in love. You’re an Uncle.
Your pictures in last week's letters must not have loaded. We only were able to view the first picture.
We went to Tyler for Thanksgiving. When we left for Tyler, I was just getting off work, and parked at a sub-station to be picked up. It saved me an hour of driving, and got us on the road two hours sooner.
Of course we had to take our yearly forage into the bamboo forest with Uncle Brad. Love that tradition. I shouldn't say yearly, I should say our Tyler tradition. We go every time we're in town. We might have found a new tradition to add to our forage. Sawyer found a 40 foot bamboo stalk he was jokingly carrying out of the forest. We veered to the green belt, and he ended up balancing it on his fingers. I'll try to load the short clip from Luke.
Of course the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang song “Me Ol’ Bamboo” was sung by your sidekick while plowing through the ever thickening bamboo forest.
Miller used his little knife saw, with Sawyer's help, to cut down an overtly green stalk. We discretely left it in the forest to dry a bit, and will check on it in December. Unfortunately, the pole vaulting tradition was left capably in your hands.
We ventured in Spades territory once, with Evan confessing he had been waiting two years to play with Hunter, to not break his winning streak. But since Hunter's home, he partnered with Miller just for fun. Since you and Hunter know how he plays, let's say he didn't disappoint. You never know what you'll get when you play with him, and it didn't work out so well for him this time, against Sawyer and I. Luke is not playing for your two years. So he walked away a bit.
Your brother Sawyer tried to step in and take over your comedy partnership with Luke. He put a few smiles on our faces, tried to arrange a visit for Luke to come to Granbury, but it wasn't the same. You were sorely missed at our Thanksgiving retreat. Even not having you there for food consumption only was very noticeable. Hopefully Hunter and Tanner visiting in December will remedy that large hole.
Of course while we drive to or from Tyler, we pass the Nike outlet store. Cooper is in need of court shoes for spring tennis; Sawyer is in need of basketball shoes now, and running shoes later. So we stopped and spent. Most of the orange boxes are going under the tree. Sawyer needed his basketball shoes now. He was wearing shoes that were too big, and he looked like he had clown shoes on, running up and down the court, with his curled toes. He works very hard on his skills. Yesterday he had a produce plastic bag on his basketball ball, to “make it more slipp9ery” while he practiced.
Miller often practices with him, and is excited to use his new shoes we picked up for try outs. He begins practice this week.
Cooper faithfully practices the piano for Priesthood each week. Love it. He also got his eagle scout bench on a trailer to bring to Granbury, picked a project date, and picked up the donated bench boards from Home Depot. So close!
Breyer and her neighborhood friend made slime on her drive way yesterday. Then they get the idea to sit at the end of her driveway and sell it. The for sale portion was the size of a half dollar. Very small. For $2. Of course I bought some, but was able to talk them down in price $1. Unbelieveable to me is the fact that within 15 minutes they had sold all their slime, and made $9. Especially surprising was when Breyer came in holding all the money, telling me they decided to donate the money to someone in need. She came to me asking if Grampy needed money. I told her to speak with her Bishop. He counseled her to donate it to fast offerings today. Sawyer helped her fill out the slip today. She then informed me her lesson in Primary was on fast offerings, and fasting, and how she was able to share her story. Such an example to me of power in purity, and the opportunities we have as parents to guide our children. Here's another example.
Suppose I had a request from another agency for back up because a female prisoner jumped out of the patrol car and took off on foot through a residential neighborhood. Do I take the time to ask, “How?” Was she in the front seat? Was she cuffed in front? Were the locks not engaged? No. I’d dispatch a unit for the back-up request, and provide the location, suspect description, and a contacting unit from the requesting agency. When I am at work, the training I’ve received guides me in the decisions I make in assisting those I serve. You have guidance of a different sort.
I was reading the General Conference talk by Sis. Joy Jones, a wonderful name during the holiday season, entitled Value Beyond Measure. She said, “Knowing that you are a [child] of God will affect every aspect of your life and guide you in the service you render each day.” How wonderful you know who you are, where you came from, and where you are going. Such a message of hope you’re able to share so far away.
Catching a female all dressed in black, in day light, running through the neighborhood with hand cuffs, is pretty easy. Catching souls is a bit more complicated. Sis. Jones said, “If the pull of the world is stronger than the faith and trust we have in the Savior, then the pull of the world will prevail every time.” You’re out of the world for two years, and have that much more power in the faith and trust you have in the Savior. Your pull is strong.
We love you. We're getting excited for our Christmas call. Return to me.
Love,
Mom
The most exciting news of the week is your niece has arrived, right on her due date. AnneMarie was able to enjoy her Thanksgiving dinner before the contractions really began. By 3 a.m. they were at the hospital, where she was determined to be showing enough signs of labor to be admitted. Twelve and a half hours later baby Nora was born; Nora Marie weighed in at 7 lbs. and 5 oz. 20” long, with lots of dark hair. She’s adorable. Just enough squishiness, and big cheeks. I’m in love. You’re an Uncle.
Your pictures in last week's letters must not have loaded. We only were able to view the first picture.
Of course we had to take our yearly forage into the bamboo forest with Uncle Brad. Love that tradition. I shouldn't say yearly, I should say our Tyler tradition. We go every time we're in town. We might have found a new tradition to add to our forage. Sawyer found a 40 foot bamboo stalk he was jokingly carrying out of the forest. We veered to the green belt, and he ended up balancing it on his fingers. I'll try to load the short clip from Luke.
Of course the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang song “Me Ol’ Bamboo” was sung by your sidekick while plowing through the ever thickening bamboo forest.
Miller used his little knife saw, with Sawyer's help, to cut down an overtly green stalk. We discretely left it in the forest to dry a bit, and will check on it in December. Unfortunately, the pole vaulting tradition was left capably in your hands.
We ventured in Spades territory once, with Evan confessing he had been waiting two years to play with Hunter, to not break his winning streak. But since Hunter's home, he partnered with Miller just for fun. Since you and Hunter know how he plays, let's say he didn't disappoint. You never know what you'll get when you play with him, and it didn't work out so well for him this time, against Sawyer and I. Luke is not playing for your two years. So he walked away a bit.
Your brother Sawyer tried to step in and take over your comedy partnership with Luke. He put a few smiles on our faces, tried to arrange a visit for Luke to come to Granbury, but it wasn't the same. You were sorely missed at our Thanksgiving retreat. Even not having you there for food consumption only was very noticeable. Hopefully Hunter and Tanner visiting in December will remedy that large hole.
Of course while we drive to or from Tyler, we pass the Nike outlet store. Cooper is in need of court shoes for spring tennis; Sawyer is in need of basketball shoes now, and running shoes later. So we stopped and spent. Most of the orange boxes are going under the tree. Sawyer needed his basketball shoes now. He was wearing shoes that were too big, and he looked like he had clown shoes on, running up and down the court, with his curled toes. He works very hard on his skills. Yesterday he had a produce plastic bag on his basketball ball, to “make it more slipp9ery” while he practiced.
Miller often practices with him, and is excited to use his new shoes we picked up for try outs. He begins practice this week.
Cooper faithfully practices the piano for Priesthood each week. Love it. He also got his eagle scout bench on a trailer to bring to Granbury, picked a project date, and picked up the donated bench boards from Home Depot. So close!
Breyer and her neighborhood friend made slime on her drive way yesterday. Then they get the idea to sit at the end of her driveway and sell it. The for sale portion was the size of a half dollar. Very small. For $2. Of course I bought some, but was able to talk them down in price $1. Unbelieveable to me is the fact that within 15 minutes they had sold all their slime, and made $9. Especially surprising was when Breyer came in holding all the money, telling me they decided to donate the money to someone in need. She came to me asking if Grampy needed money. I told her to speak with her Bishop. He counseled her to donate it to fast offerings today. Sawyer helped her fill out the slip today. She then informed me her lesson in Primary was on fast offerings, and fasting, and how she was able to share her story. Such an example to me of power in purity, and the opportunities we have as parents to guide our children. Here's another example.
Suppose I had a request from another agency for back up because a female prisoner jumped out of the patrol car and took off on foot through a residential neighborhood. Do I take the time to ask, “How?” Was she in the front seat? Was she cuffed in front? Were the locks not engaged? No. I’d dispatch a unit for the back-up request, and provide the location, suspect description, and a contacting unit from the requesting agency. When I am at work, the training I’ve received guides me in the decisions I make in assisting those I serve. You have guidance of a different sort.
I was reading the General Conference talk by Sis. Joy Jones, a wonderful name during the holiday season, entitled Value Beyond Measure. She said, “Knowing that you are a [child] of God will affect every aspect of your life and guide you in the service you render each day.” How wonderful you know who you are, where you came from, and where you are going. Such a message of hope you’re able to share so far away.
Catching a female all dressed in black, in day light, running through the neighborhood with hand cuffs, is pretty easy. Catching souls is a bit more complicated. Sis. Jones said, “If the pull of the world is stronger than the faith and trust we have in the Savior, then the pull of the world will prevail every time.” You’re out of the world for two years, and have that much more power in the faith and trust you have in the Savior. Your pull is strong.
We love you. We're getting excited for our Christmas call. Return to me.
Love,
Mom
Saturday, November 25, 2017
College Correspondent
First, just to clarify from last week, I am planning to leave my current apt, for a new one, but still stay in Provo. Unfortunately, the person who wanted to buy my contract texted me last Monday saying he had been on a waitlist for an apt complex for a long time, and they just let him know that a spot had opened up. So i'm still trying to sell it.
Wednesday, we had another bathroom adventure. My roommate clogged the toilet again, and left. I came back from the gym, didn't even use it, but about to hop in the shower, and seeing toilet paper, flushed it. The water rose incredibly fast, and overflowed, filling the bathroom with water. Nasty, disgusting water. Still wanting to take a shower, and knowing the problem wouldn't fix itself, I went to start mopping it up. And then, someone knocked on the door, which almost never happens. Half-naked, I opened it up, a panicked neighbor. To be exact, a neighbor who lives directly below us. He told me that water was pouring in their ceiling, and he wanted to know if someone was taking a shower. I told the truth- the problem is not with the shower. That didn't make him feel better, but I promised to fix the problem quickly. I mopped everything up, took my shower, now that I really needed to be clean, and texted my roommate, raising awareness of the situation, and letting him know he could finish the clean up. He did. I think we both learned some lessons.
I was leaving that mess, to meet up with Tanner, and listen to BYU Philharmonic play. It was marvelous. They finished by playing Scheherazade by Rimsky-korsakov.
Thursday was lots of school, a dance test, an organ test, then a meeting of the Toqueville Society where we talked and debated about the influence of the Reformation on our society as a whole, and on the LDS church. I left having changed my opinion on a few things, grateful for the learning experience.
Friday after work, I got together with a guy from chess club. We met in the library to play a longer game, 45 minutes on each side. We had a fair amount of spectators come by, ask about the club, etc, but it wasn't until we were done that two guys came up, one jubilant, congratulating my competitor on his victory and informing that he had won $10 off of him, which his friend confirmed by wistfully looking at me and asking, "10 dollars...How did you lose when you had the winning position early?" Impatient attack, and not castling, my friend. I feel your pain.
Friday night I went to Tanmarie's and played games. And borrowed their car for my Saturday adventures. Super kind of them. But to back up a little,
Thursday, wanting to go out, I decided to go all out. I went up to a girl I did not know, and had never talked with, asked her name, conversed for a couple minutes and then invited her to get some ice cream with me on Saturday. She said yes, and made my day. So, Saturday, I drove(!!!!) to the football stadium, braved the cold weather, a cold team, and the UMass coach who won hands down for most swearing in the season. I returned home, quickly showered, and went to pick up my date, Lexie, a ballerina from St. Louis. We went to what is quickly becoming a favorite of mine, Rockwell's Ice Cream. Of course, there was no parking, so we ended up having to walk a couple blocks. On our way, waiting for a crosswalk light to change, two bums came up to us. They said they liked my coat. And they thought it would look good on them. I politely declined, and they then left us alone. We enjoyed fantastic ice cream; I went with strawberries+cream and Lexie chose snickerdoodle. During our time at Rockwell's there was one silence in the conversation, that lasted 20 seconds, which is actually pretty long. Try sitting at a table with someone, and timing 20 seconds before saying anything. I feel comfortable with silence, and was savoring the dessert, but saw her twitch and knew I should say something. Preferably something that doesn't increase the awkwardness. So, I asked her what grocery store chains they have in St. Louis. BANG! Its said if you get kneecapped once, you can still make it out, however painful. But, I followed her response by saying, "I know that was a weird question, but I'm just really interested and fascinated by grocery stores." BANG! Man down. However, overall, I enjoyed it, and believe it went well. I brought Tanmarie's car back, met Annemarie's mother, and we played a game of scrabble. Me and Tanner fought to the end, but I played "THrEADING" and that was enough to claim the victory. And, I took advantage of my time there, and did my wash. For free.
Sunday, I taught family history class. I also made it a point to try and meet anyone I didn't know already. Including Shelby, who I talked to briefly. There was a face-to-face event with Elders Oaks and Ballard happening that night, and Elder Ballard in his visit to BYU on Tuesday had made a special invitation to bring a friend. I went and invited everyone I home teach, but no one was going, so I decided to ask Shelby. Of course, I don't have a car, so that made me find someone in the ward who did, and invite them to double with me. He, Jordan, wasn't planning on going, but I promised him blessings, (and a date,) and he agreed. I went and invited Shelby, and her roommate. All four of us had a great time. Shelby is from Pleasant Grove, UT, served a mission in Cleveland, and works full time at DoTerra.
Monday, I had a fantastic time at work, and had lunch with my mission president. Pres. Young, which was THE highlight of the week. He works relatively close to me, so we had set this up a while back. I won't include everything here, my separate type up is three pages, but know that we talked and talked for an hour and a half. Actually, I basically just listened, happy to hear, and trying to soak up as much wisdom as possible. I left thoroughly touched and inspired. And I'll just add, he might have the best proposal story I've ever heard. I almost cried. And of course, when that thing happens, I ended up going home, and having a candlelight dinner for one, (of fish, spinach, cranberry sauce, and mashed potatoes,) writing thank you letters, listening to classical music, and reflecting on my life. And finishing this letter.
Wednesday, we had another bathroom adventure. My roommate clogged the toilet again, and left. I came back from the gym, didn't even use it, but about to hop in the shower, and seeing toilet paper, flushed it. The water rose incredibly fast, and overflowed, filling the bathroom with water. Nasty, disgusting water. Still wanting to take a shower, and knowing the problem wouldn't fix itself, I went to start mopping it up. And then, someone knocked on the door, which almost never happens. Half-naked, I opened it up, a panicked neighbor. To be exact, a neighbor who lives directly below us. He told me that water was pouring in their ceiling, and he wanted to know if someone was taking a shower. I told the truth- the problem is not with the shower. That didn't make him feel better, but I promised to fix the problem quickly. I mopped everything up, took my shower, now that I really needed to be clean, and texted my roommate, raising awareness of the situation, and letting him know he could finish the clean up. He did. I think we both learned some lessons.
I was leaving that mess, to meet up with Tanner, and listen to BYU Philharmonic play. It was marvelous. They finished by playing Scheherazade by Rimsky-korsakov.
Thursday was lots of school, a dance test, an organ test, then a meeting of the Toqueville Society where we talked and debated about the influence of the Reformation on our society as a whole, and on the LDS church. I left having changed my opinion on a few things, grateful for the learning experience.
Friday after work, I got together with a guy from chess club. We met in the library to play a longer game, 45 minutes on each side. We had a fair amount of spectators come by, ask about the club, etc, but it wasn't until we were done that two guys came up, one jubilant, congratulating my competitor on his victory and informing that he had won $10 off of him, which his friend confirmed by wistfully looking at me and asking, "10 dollars...How did you lose when you had the winning position early?" Impatient attack, and not castling, my friend. I feel your pain.
Friday night I went to Tanmarie's and played games. And borrowed their car for my Saturday adventures. Super kind of them. But to back up a little,
Thursday, wanting to go out, I decided to go all out. I went up to a girl I did not know, and had never talked with, asked her name, conversed for a couple minutes and then invited her to get some ice cream with me on Saturday. She said yes, and made my day. So, Saturday, I drove(!!!!) to the football stadium, braved the cold weather, a cold team, and the UMass coach who won hands down for most swearing in the season. I returned home, quickly showered, and went to pick up my date, Lexie, a ballerina from St. Louis. We went to what is quickly becoming a favorite of mine, Rockwell's Ice Cream. Of course, there was no parking, so we ended up having to walk a couple blocks. On our way, waiting for a crosswalk light to change, two bums came up to us. They said they liked my coat. And they thought it would look good on them. I politely declined, and they then left us alone. We enjoyed fantastic ice cream; I went with strawberries+cream and Lexie chose snickerdoodle. During our time at Rockwell's there was one silence in the conversation, that lasted 20 seconds, which is actually pretty long. Try sitting at a table with someone, and timing 20 seconds before saying anything. I feel comfortable with silence, and was savoring the dessert, but saw her twitch and knew I should say something. Preferably something that doesn't increase the awkwardness. So, I asked her what grocery store chains they have in St. Louis. BANG! Its said if you get kneecapped once, you can still make it out, however painful. But, I followed her response by saying, "I know that was a weird question, but I'm just really interested and fascinated by grocery stores." BANG! Man down. However, overall, I enjoyed it, and believe it went well. I brought Tanmarie's car back, met Annemarie's mother, and we played a game of scrabble. Me and Tanner fought to the end, but I played "THrEADING" and that was enough to claim the victory. And, I took advantage of my time there, and did my wash. For free.
Sunday, I taught family history class. I also made it a point to try and meet anyone I didn't know already. Including Shelby, who I talked to briefly. There was a face-to-face event with Elders Oaks and Ballard happening that night, and Elder Ballard in his visit to BYU on Tuesday had made a special invitation to bring a friend. I went and invited everyone I home teach, but no one was going, so I decided to ask Shelby. Of course, I don't have a car, so that made me find someone in the ward who did, and invite them to double with me. He, Jordan, wasn't planning on going, but I promised him blessings, (and a date,) and he agreed. I went and invited Shelby, and her roommate. All four of us had a great time. Shelby is from Pleasant Grove, UT, served a mission in Cleveland, and works full time at DoTerra.
Monday, I had a fantastic time at work, and had lunch with my mission president. Pres. Young, which was THE highlight of the week. He works relatively close to me, so we had set this up a while back. I won't include everything here, my separate type up is three pages, but know that we talked and talked for an hour and a half. Actually, I basically just listened, happy to hear, and trying to soak up as much wisdom as possible. I left thoroughly touched and inspired. And I'll just add, he might have the best proposal story I've ever heard. I almost cried. And of course, when that thing happens, I ended up going home, and having a candlelight dinner for one, (of fish, spinach, cranberry sauce, and mashed potatoes,) writing thank you letters, listening to classical music, and reflecting on my life. And finishing this letter.
Friday, November 24, 2017
Thursday, November 23, 2017
Monday, November 20, 2017
Letter #15
Oh baby, what a week, the adventures are for sure some to remember. We´ll start with the end this week.
This is Alexandre, he was baptized yesterday, great dude, 13 years old. His Uncle came from Northern Brazil to baptize him, hence big Brazilian in white. Good Stuff.
I had a mystery allergy breakout, just a little rash on my wrist. My guess is coconut, but no real thoughts yet. If it is coconut, I will continue to eat it, don´t worry, I don´t give up that easily.
We moved bookah gallons of water. This guy we tried to talk to, who owns a water and gas company, said he had to unload a truck first, 300 bottles of 20 L waters. So I asked him if he wanted help. I think he thought I was joking. LOL, jokes on him. It took us about an hour and a half. After, he told us he had actually planned on unloading it the next day, so we came back the next day when he had planned to unload and taught him and his three employees. You´re welcome UniGas Itatiba
We hiked through Jurassic Park. Literally, the closest most wild thing. One Elder, not my companion or I, thought the four of us could save some time by cutting across this field. We saved about fifteen minutes. The hills were vertical, the ravines were wide, the dogs were making dinosaur sounds. Twas, to say the least, a rainy, muddy, capybara filled adventure.
And THE story of the week. A baptist preacher, a car part delivery man, and a town to town homemade cheese salesman.Sounds like the start to a bad, overly complicated joke? Almost. We went hitch hiking. Our bus left without us for district meeting. So, we pegged one down on good looks alone. The second one, I was waving a Book of Mormon around. And the last, I had to add the Bible. But it got us there. Before the bus, with the other Elders, would have. 44km. Moral time
So, the scriptures will get you there. They got us to the next town, but they also help us get way farther than that. They help us get where we need to go. That´s why, I´m making it a goal for next year, and encouraging you all to join me, to read the whole Book of Mormon and the New Testament.
You can even do it in English, or your language of choice. I´m gonna do it in Portuguese.
But, let´s do it. The scriptures have answers meant for us, individual and unique to our personal problems and questions. My thoughts, if they are there, if they´re given to us, why not go find them?That´s the real goal.
Anyways, I love you all, especially those of you who wished my mom a happy birthday, it´s not too late.
But, onward we go,
Elder With the Nice Thumbs
This is Alexandre, he was baptized yesterday, great dude, 13 years old. His Uncle came from Northern Brazil to baptize him, hence big Brazilian in white. Good Stuff.
I had a mystery allergy breakout, just a little rash on my wrist. My guess is coconut, but no real thoughts yet. If it is coconut, I will continue to eat it, don´t worry, I don´t give up that easily.
We moved bookah gallons of water. This guy we tried to talk to, who owns a water and gas company, said he had to unload a truck first, 300 bottles of 20 L waters. So I asked him if he wanted help. I think he thought I was joking. LOL, jokes on him. It took us about an hour and a half. After, he told us he had actually planned on unloading it the next day, so we came back the next day when he had planned to unload and taught him and his three employees. You´re welcome UniGas Itatiba
We hiked through Jurassic Park. Literally, the closest most wild thing. One Elder, not my companion or I, thought the four of us could save some time by cutting across this field. We saved about fifteen minutes. The hills were vertical, the ravines were wide, the dogs were making dinosaur sounds. Twas, to say the least, a rainy, muddy, capybara filled adventure.
And THE story of the week. A baptist preacher, a car part delivery man, and a town to town homemade cheese salesman.Sounds like the start to a bad, overly complicated joke? Almost. We went hitch hiking. Our bus left without us for district meeting. So, we pegged one down on good looks alone. The second one, I was waving a Book of Mormon around. And the last, I had to add the Bible. But it got us there. Before the bus, with the other Elders, would have. 44km. Moral time
So, the scriptures will get you there. They got us to the next town, but they also help us get way farther than that. They help us get where we need to go. That´s why, I´m making it a goal for next year, and encouraging you all to join me, to read the whole Book of Mormon and the New Testament.
You can even do it in English, or your language of choice. I´m gonna do it in Portuguese.
But, let´s do it. The scriptures have answers meant for us, individual and unique to our personal problems and questions. My thoughts, if they are there, if they´re given to us, why not go find them?That´s the real goal.
Anyways, I love you all, especially those of you who wished my mom a happy birthday, it´s not too late.
But, onward we go,
Elder With the Nice Thumbs
Sunday, November 19, 2017
With All My Love
Dear Elder Schenewark,
Your letter! What a letter! Your dog story is reaching epic proportions. Dad shared with his counselor, who then sent him Conan the Barbarian clips, when Conan punched out camels and horses. Be safe! One body! No broken bones!
I did hear today it was National Toilet Day. Truly. Apparently the worst conditions are in India. Enough said. Appreciate what you have, even if you're a little toilet paper too short.
Speaking of needing a reminder to be careful, your brother Miller makes me grimace. He finished his soccer season yesterday with three games. And often, during all three games, he slide tackles. For ball control. It's an amazing technique he's developed,but sometimes other feet and attached bodies are involved,and falling on him. I kept reminding him he doesn't want a knee injury. The field is a lot bigger than a basketball court! How he could play three games in one day is beyond me. Basketball season will be very manageable after Saturday’s games. Miller’s team only won one game, not because of his efforts. He played striker and goalie. He stopped a tremendous amount of attempted goals successfully. He also had a great assist for one goal. He’s excited to begin basketball next week after the holiday.
Sawyer had his first basketball game Thursday. At home. What a treat. He's on the main A team for 8th grade, and starts. His team won handily, and benefits most from his leadership and defense contributions. He was 1/2 at the line, had two baskets on intercepting the other team's inbound pass, and a couple of rebound baskets. Sawyer is well liked by the coaches, and was approached this week when they were looking for suggestions related to team players.
Cooper is done with tennis. Did I mention this previously? He's gone back to building airplanes. Right now he's making one to hold G.I.Joe's. He's so clever. He went on a date last night that I have yet to hear about, except that yes, she was nice, and yes, she was normal.
Sawyer, Miller, Breyer and I went to the Hood County Food Pantry, and helped with their yearly bag drive. A local pediatric dentist works with the schools to collect food, and provides the bags we filled for a Thanksgiving drop off. We were part of the crew that filled 300 bags, and were given free pizza and soda. This is one of my favorite service projects of the year, and the kids might grumble a bit before, but they’re happy going home.
Do you have Thanksgiving plans in Brazil? I believe I remember them celebrating some kind of Day of Thanksgiving, but not this time of the year? We plan to head to Tyler after work on Wednesday. Your siblings are excited to be getting out of Granbury. Your father and I will be joining your aunt in their Turkey Day Trot, fun! I plan on spending a lot of time with your cousin exchanging notes on your letters. Just in case I’m missing out on a few details.
We were all ready for a little break from the school routine. I’m not making six lunches every morning, I think that was my max, but I am making five! We’ve been cleaning out closets, having the carpets cleaned, cleaning bathrooms (Miss B is my trusty, willing helper), cleaning the garage…I must be having nesting tendencies due to my daughter in law. She let everyone know this week she climbed into her car and her belly hit the steering wheel. She is done. Can’t wait to see her and the baby. And Tanner. I haven’t heard much from your brother Hunter. I receive a weekly phone call, and I think I missed it this week. Missing him, and glad he’s able to come home as well. Even if he gets the bunk bed.
That's the weekly wrap up. The story of the week probably goes to a one armed man, with screws in his hip, lost in the woods at 3:30 a.m. Difficult to hold onto a flashlight, and use the phone at the same time, and especially hard to keep walking or standing in the woody marsh when your phone/flashlight dies. Thank goodness the alligators were sleeping. He was suppose to meet a friend to go fishing, who never showed up, and he waited too long to head back to his truck. He was found after the sun came up, when he was finally able to walk out to a road. This reminded me of a quote from Sis. Marriott. "Perhaps our life in a loving pre-mortal world set up our yearning for true, lasting love here on earth." This man had no one who was missing him. No one who called in to report him missing. Especially the friend who was suppose to be with him fishing. How sad to be so alone. Family is vital to our happiness here on earth, and in the eternities to come. I might be yearning for the day you walk off the plane. Just a bit. Come home to me.
Love,
Mom
Your letter! What a letter! Your dog story is reaching epic proportions. Dad shared with his counselor, who then sent him Conan the Barbarian clips, when Conan punched out camels and horses. Be safe! One body! No broken bones!
I did hear today it was National Toilet Day. Truly. Apparently the worst conditions are in India. Enough said. Appreciate what you have, even if you're a little toilet paper too short.
Speaking of needing a reminder to be careful, your brother Miller makes me grimace. He finished his soccer season yesterday with three games. And often, during all three games, he slide tackles. For ball control. It's an amazing technique he's developed,but sometimes other feet and attached bodies are involved,and falling on him. I kept reminding him he doesn't want a knee injury. The field is a lot bigger than a basketball court! How he could play three games in one day is beyond me. Basketball season will be very manageable after Saturday’s games. Miller’s team only won one game, not because of his efforts. He played striker and goalie. He stopped a tremendous amount of attempted goals successfully. He also had a great assist for one goal. He’s excited to begin basketball next week after the holiday.
Sawyer had his first basketball game Thursday. At home. What a treat. He's on the main A team for 8th grade, and starts. His team won handily, and benefits most from his leadership and defense contributions. He was 1/2 at the line, had two baskets on intercepting the other team's inbound pass, and a couple of rebound baskets. Sawyer is well liked by the coaches, and was approached this week when they were looking for suggestions related to team players.
Cooper is done with tennis. Did I mention this previously? He's gone back to building airplanes. Right now he's making one to hold G.I.Joe's. He's so clever. He went on a date last night that I have yet to hear about, except that yes, she was nice, and yes, she was normal.
Sawyer, Miller, Breyer and I went to the Hood County Food Pantry, and helped with their yearly bag drive. A local pediatric dentist works with the schools to collect food, and provides the bags we filled for a Thanksgiving drop off. We were part of the crew that filled 300 bags, and were given free pizza and soda. This is one of my favorite service projects of the year, and the kids might grumble a bit before, but they’re happy going home.
Do you have Thanksgiving plans in Brazil? I believe I remember them celebrating some kind of Day of Thanksgiving, but not this time of the year? We plan to head to Tyler after work on Wednesday. Your siblings are excited to be getting out of Granbury. Your father and I will be joining your aunt in their Turkey Day Trot, fun! I plan on spending a lot of time with your cousin exchanging notes on your letters. Just in case I’m missing out on a few details.
We were all ready for a little break from the school routine. I’m not making six lunches every morning, I think that was my max, but I am making five! We’ve been cleaning out closets, having the carpets cleaned, cleaning bathrooms (Miss B is my trusty, willing helper), cleaning the garage…I must be having nesting tendencies due to my daughter in law. She let everyone know this week she climbed into her car and her belly hit the steering wheel. She is done. Can’t wait to see her and the baby. And Tanner. I haven’t heard much from your brother Hunter. I receive a weekly phone call, and I think I missed it this week. Missing him, and glad he’s able to come home as well. Even if he gets the bunk bed.
That's the weekly wrap up. The story of the week probably goes to a one armed man, with screws in his hip, lost in the woods at 3:30 a.m. Difficult to hold onto a flashlight, and use the phone at the same time, and especially hard to keep walking or standing in the woody marsh when your phone/flashlight dies. Thank goodness the alligators were sleeping. He was suppose to meet a friend to go fishing, who never showed up, and he waited too long to head back to his truck. He was found after the sun came up, when he was finally able to walk out to a road. This reminded me of a quote from Sis. Marriott. "Perhaps our life in a loving pre-mortal world set up our yearning for true, lasting love here on earth." This man had no one who was missing him. No one who called in to report him missing. Especially the friend who was suppose to be with him fishing. How sad to be so alone. Family is vital to our happiness here on earth, and in the eternities to come. I might be yearning for the day you walk off the plane. Just a bit. Come home to me.
Love,
Mom
Saturday, November 18, 2017
Friday, November 17, 2017
Thursday, November 16, 2017
Wednesday, November 15, 2017
Letter #14
First off, happy birthdays to some peoples
Tanner, Happy Birthday
Aunt Jenny, Happy Birthday
Aunt Kelly, Happy Birthday
Grayson Tebbs, Happy Birthday
and lastly, Mother Dear, the happiest of birthdays to you (maybe happier than the rest of these people, I don´t know)
So, this one time.......
This was a week of one times things
Not much on the filler space part today, so it´ll definitely be shorter.
First, this one time I knocked out a dog.
This is actually way more exciting, probably the highlight of my week, excitiement wise, maybe mission wise, idk
This dog, was growling and barking, so we were eyeing him up.
then he charged us
He chose, however, to attack Elder Orteney.
That´s not okay, I can deal with a couple bites, medium size dog, whatever, I can afford to lose a couple pounds.
But you don´t touch Elder Orteney, as my companion, I´m gonna protect him.
So when then dog ran at him, I Ivan Drago, Rocky 4, swung on him. One punch, two knuckles, straight forehead, slept
I slept a dog
One punch
Inline image 1
Theseis my knuckles, tasty treat for all of you
In the words of that one dude,
"I hated every minute of training, but I said, 'Don't quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.'"
Give me the belt already
Second, this one time, our fan tried to kill us
The back casing of the fan just exploded while we were all studying. Don´t know why, not really important.
BUT, this broke one of the fan blades, which made the now bare bladed electric assassian begin to hop and move around the room. It got Elder Emerich and Elder Me in the shins before we got it unplugged.
Third, this one time, we were walking past this house and we just heard screaming.
So we stopped for a sec, and this dude, obviously shirtlesss, runs out of his house screaming. These two dudes, one with a huge silver cross and the other with this big, ornate Bible, come walking out. My companion is nudging me, whispering "exorcistas, exorcistas." Obviously, that means exorcists, come on. Then, one of them, real dramatic, said, "We can´t do anything more, leave the house and don´t come back for anything."
Um, yikes
Not what you want to hear.
But I´m not gonna be messing with anything like that, so we got out of there quick.
Little scary
This one time, last one, we destroyed
Our mission house played another area, 4v4, soccer
Score, us 11 games
Them, 0
Destroyedddd
And thoughts, nothing popped out this week, but I did like a talk we had in church about helping the missionaries
Help them, it´s nice to be helped. The work is so much more effective when it´s done with help from the member.
Just take a little time to do something helpful for them.
That is all.
Also, everyone wish my Mom a happy birthday, she is wonderful.
Love to everyone, especially you, Mom
Elder Cruiserweight Champion of the World
P.S. I ate an entire pig ear, one bite, everyone was impressed, just saying
Tanner, Happy Birthday
Aunt Jenny, Happy Birthday
Aunt Kelly, Happy Birthday
Grayson Tebbs, Happy Birthday
and lastly, Mother Dear, the happiest of birthdays to you (maybe happier than the rest of these people, I don´t know)
So, this one time.......
This was a week of one times things
Not much on the filler space part today, so it´ll definitely be shorter.
First, this one time I knocked out a dog.
This is actually way more exciting, probably the highlight of my week, excitiement wise, maybe mission wise, idk
This dog, was growling and barking, so we were eyeing him up.
then he charged us
He chose, however, to attack Elder Orteney.
That´s not okay, I can deal with a couple bites, medium size dog, whatever, I can afford to lose a couple pounds.
But you don´t touch Elder Orteney, as my companion, I´m gonna protect him.
So when then dog ran at him, I Ivan Drago, Rocky 4, swung on him. One punch, two knuckles, straight forehead, slept
I slept a dog
One punch
Inline image 1
Theseis my knuckles, tasty treat for all of you
In the words of that one dude,
"I hated every minute of training, but I said, 'Don't quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.'"
Give me the belt already
Second, this one time, our fan tried to kill us
The back casing of the fan just exploded while we were all studying. Don´t know why, not really important.
BUT, this broke one of the fan blades, which made the now bare bladed electric assassian begin to hop and move around the room. It got Elder Emerich and Elder Me in the shins before we got it unplugged.
Third, this one time, we were walking past this house and we just heard screaming.
So we stopped for a sec, and this dude, obviously shirtlesss, runs out of his house screaming. These two dudes, one with a huge silver cross and the other with this big, ornate Bible, come walking out. My companion is nudging me, whispering "exorcistas, exorcistas." Obviously, that means exorcists, come on. Then, one of them, real dramatic, said, "We can´t do anything more, leave the house and don´t come back for anything."
Um, yikes
Not what you want to hear.
But I´m not gonna be messing with anything like that, so we got out of there quick.
Little scary
This one time, last one, we destroyed
Our mission house played another area, 4v4, soccer
Score, us 11 games
Them, 0
Destroyedddd
And thoughts, nothing popped out this week, but I did like a talk we had in church about helping the missionaries
Help them, it´s nice to be helped. The work is so much more effective when it´s done with help from the member.
Just take a little time to do something helpful for them.
That is all.
Also, everyone wish my Mom a happy birthday, she is wonderful.
Love to everyone, especially you, Mom
Elder Cruiserweight Champion of the World
P.S. I ate an entire pig ear, one bite, everyone was impressed, just saying
Tuesday, November 14, 2017
College Correspondent
First, a Happy Birthday to Tanner. I'm just coming back from his birthday party, good times, and I feel like I always leave a better person after spending time with AnneMarie and him. It's been an evening full of games and food. Specifically shish kebabs of peppers, pineapple, mushrooms and chicken. That had been marinated for 12 hours. As AnneMarie says, Tanner's food has to taste good and look aesthetically pleasing. (they prepared it all). And then lots of ice cream, and brownies and lemon bars. Good stuff. Saturday, we also celebrated his special day by going to a movie, Murder on the Orient Express, and then playing games in the evening. Earlier, about a week ago, asking me to come to the movie, Tanner said that it would be so fun, they would all dress up like characters from the film, and really get into it. Well, I'm not the type of person you need to call to remind about something, like giving a talk in church, etc. I don't forget. And thus, I watched the trailer to get an idea, and dressed up. I was subsequently picked up by TanMarie, who had on gym clothes. And we were then joined by others. In gym clothes. #fake news. They got me good.
Of course, there's a little more to the story than just that. That morning, I had spent grilling with my charcoal grill and watching football, (I also cooked the kebabs which makes my new favorite hobby BBQ'ing) and was eating my steak quickly to finish in time. When, I heard shouts for help coming from the small gym in the clubhouse. I went over to look, and the lone athlete had dislocated his shoulder and asked me to put it back in. I never took anatomy in school or anything similar which might have explained his wails that almost cracked the glass doors, but hey, after a couple tries, his shoulder went back in. Then, I returned to finish my steak. Of course, I was now five minutes behind schedule and texted Tanner to let him know. I wanted to make sure I had time to change and wouldn't be the only one not dressed up. C'est la vie. But hey, steak, a good movie, better company, and games all in 24 hours? Even if you throw in a scary dislocated shoulder, it was still a nice day.
Friday, was also a memorable day. I had work off, because of Veteran's Day. However, my boss called on Thursday wanting to know if I would come to his house and do a concrete project. I couldn't because of prior commitments, but appreciated the offer, and the trust. Those prior commitments included meeting with Roger Minert, world-renowned german family history specialist. He isn't just an expert in the field, he is the expert. He is teaching my class on that subject, and I've already learned a lot, but it was amazing to spend an hour and work through some tough problems on our tree. The main goal is still to find where Frank Schenewark and Fam. lived in Germany. I sprinted from that meeting back to my apt, changed clothes, had lunch, and was back on campus for my 2nd stab at Dancesport. This time we were dancing the quickstep, and I had put some serious practice time into it, and we were looking good! Alas, it was not to be, as disaster struck and we failed to advance. Everything went wrong. Another couple bumped into us, we were thrown off, and instead of fixing the slight damage at that point, we tried to keep going without missing a beat, and that made us go downhill faster than Paul Bunyan could fell a tree. It was disappointing. And to add to the forgettable finish, I had given my camera to someone, but they couldn't figure out how to film us until half the dance was over, and then didn't know how to zoom in.
With my friend who won one of the Latin divisions. Coincidentally, we matched.
Friday night is date night (at least in theory). This week theory went into practice, and I went on a double date, with a friend from the MTC, Paul. I set him up with Rebecca Welch, and he set me up with Cassidy. It was actually a good time; we started off by going to the soap factory where we made our own custom bar of soap. I chose a flower design, blue color, and eucalyptus/pine scent. Cassidy went with a purple penguin with lemongrass. Paul and Becca made 12 tiny dinosaurs. The best? Definitely the one smelling like rootbeer. Paul says it will be his new car freshener. While we waited for the soap to set, we played banana grams, then went for ice cream at Rockwell's. It was hard, but I branched out, only sampling my go-to cookie dough flavor, and instead choosing Apple Pie Ice Cream. Impressive, and worth a return trip.
I bucked the natural hesitancy for change, and put my winter housing contract up for sale last week. Only one person appeared interested, but that one person (in D.C. on an internship) got into contact, had his sister come over to look the place over, and tonight, asked to close. I'll be leaving in December, (still looking for a new place to live,) and am mulling what the future holds in store. Stay tuned....
Of course, there's a little more to the story than just that. That morning, I had spent grilling with my charcoal grill and watching football, (I also cooked the kebabs which makes my new favorite hobby BBQ'ing) and was eating my steak quickly to finish in time. When, I heard shouts for help coming from the small gym in the clubhouse. I went over to look, and the lone athlete had dislocated his shoulder and asked me to put it back in. I never took anatomy in school or anything similar which might have explained his wails that almost cracked the glass doors, but hey, after a couple tries, his shoulder went back in. Then, I returned to finish my steak. Of course, I was now five minutes behind schedule and texted Tanner to let him know. I wanted to make sure I had time to change and wouldn't be the only one not dressed up. C'est la vie. But hey, steak, a good movie, better company, and games all in 24 hours? Even if you throw in a scary dislocated shoulder, it was still a nice day.
Friday, was also a memorable day. I had work off, because of Veteran's Day. However, my boss called on Thursday wanting to know if I would come to his house and do a concrete project. I couldn't because of prior commitments, but appreciated the offer, and the trust. Those prior commitments included meeting with Roger Minert, world-renowned german family history specialist. He isn't just an expert in the field, he is the expert. He is teaching my class on that subject, and I've already learned a lot, but it was amazing to spend an hour and work through some tough problems on our tree. The main goal is still to find where Frank Schenewark and Fam. lived in Germany. I sprinted from that meeting back to my apt, changed clothes, had lunch, and was back on campus for my 2nd stab at Dancesport. This time we were dancing the quickstep, and I had put some serious practice time into it, and we were looking good! Alas, it was not to be, as disaster struck and we failed to advance. Everything went wrong. Another couple bumped into us, we were thrown off, and instead of fixing the slight damage at that point, we tried to keep going without missing a beat, and that made us go downhill faster than Paul Bunyan could fell a tree. It was disappointing. And to add to the forgettable finish, I had given my camera to someone, but they couldn't figure out how to film us until half the dance was over, and then didn't know how to zoom in.
With my friend who won one of the Latin divisions. Coincidentally, we matched.
Friday night is date night (at least in theory). This week theory went into practice, and I went on a double date, with a friend from the MTC, Paul. I set him up with Rebecca Welch, and he set me up with Cassidy. It was actually a good time; we started off by going to the soap factory where we made our own custom bar of soap. I chose a flower design, blue color, and eucalyptus/pine scent. Cassidy went with a purple penguin with lemongrass. Paul and Becca made 12 tiny dinosaurs. The best? Definitely the one smelling like rootbeer. Paul says it will be his new car freshener. While we waited for the soap to set, we played banana grams, then went for ice cream at Rockwell's. It was hard, but I branched out, only sampling my go-to cookie dough flavor, and instead choosing Apple Pie Ice Cream. Impressive, and worth a return trip.
I bucked the natural hesitancy for change, and put my winter housing contract up for sale last week. Only one person appeared interested, but that one person (in D.C. on an internship) got into contact, had his sister come over to look the place over, and tonight, asked to close. I'll be leaving in December, (still looking for a new place to live,) and am mulling what the future holds in store. Stay tuned....
Sunday, November 12, 2017
With All My Love
Dear Elder Schenewark,
One day we received an alarm request from an alarm company, advising us that a residential alarm was going off, giving us the address, and location in the house. When the units responded, it was actually a domestic disturbance in progress, the husband had taken her phone away, and the wife in distress had used her residential alarms to reach out for help. I was impressed with her quick thinking and creative approach in a life threatening situation.
I was reading Sis. Eubank's talk in the Ensign conference edition. Would you like your own copy? She spoke on four ways to "turn on your light." One way was to be different. She said "Innovation and creation are spiritual gifts. When we keep our covenants, it may make us different from others in our culture and society, but it gives us access to inspiration so we can think of different solutions, different approaches, different applications." You are different, and will be successful because of your ability to be innovative and creative.One day we received an alarm request from an alarm company, advising us that a residential alarm was going off, giving us the address, and location in the house. When the units responded, it was actually a domestic disturbance in progress, the husband had taken her phone away, and the wife in distress had used her residential alarms to reach out for help. I was impressed with her quick thinking and creative approach in a life threatening situation.
I was reading Sis. Eubank's talk in the Ensign conference edition. Would you like your own copy? She spoke on four ways to "turn on your light." One way was to be different. She said "Innovation and creation are spiritual gifts. When we keep our covenants, it may make us different from others in our culture and society, but it gives us access to inspiration so we can think of different solutions, different approaches, different applications." You are different, and will be successful because of your ability to be innovative and creative.
It was my birthday last week. It was a drift along kind of event. Made myself an apple pie when I fed the missionaries on Sunday. Received a call from my parents the day before, and a few calls the day of. Got a few Facebook messages. Work took the prize. I'll have to email you my adventures. Unbelievable. Your brother Tanner also turned 1/4 of a century. My first born. Another unbelievable. He has a good wife to help him celebrate, and a brother. It was a good day for him today.
As for our news this week, Breyer had a first grade program on The First Thanksgiving. She was one of 12 pilgrim women. There were also pilgrim men, Native American men and women, preacher men, turkeys and corn. Her group's standard line was, "Mercy me!" She and her troupe wore signs around their neck proclaiming what they were most thankful for. She said, "My new baby niece." She wore my apron and pioneer hat your grandmother made for me. How fun is that?
Miller's regular soccer season ended this week. Their last practice was in the dark, due to day light savings. They wore glow in the dark necklaces, and kicked a soccer ball that had been spray painted with glow in the dark paint. Miller will have basketball try outs tomorrow, more of a formality as he's already been reserved.
Sawyer had regional band competitions this week. Because clarinets fall in the popular instrument group with flutes and trumpets, he had to go to a pre try out. He was in a class room of twenty clarinets, and received a first place ranking He found out the next day he was 6th, out of 180 clarinets. On Saturday he had another try out, and made the first band, tenth chair. He was not feeling well, and feels likely just to make the first band. He had basketball try outs as well, and made the A team. He's excited to be back on the court oding what he does very well.
Cooper went up in plane at a Pecan Plantation event. It's his second time. His teacher snapped a photo for us this time. He really is serious about his aviation pursuits. Designing, building, flying, now ordering textbooks. I reminded him he has two other projects to worry about first: Getting his eagle scout project done, and getting a license.
We read your family letter for FHE just like you suggested. It was wonderful. Your siblings payed attention to your stories and examples. Thank you. We talked about doing 25 days of service, and will try to keep you posted on our attempts at Love.
Which I have lots of for you.
Be careful.
Mom
One day we received an alarm request from an alarm company, advising us that a residential alarm was going off, giving us the address, and location in the house. When the units responded, it was actually a domestic disturbance in progress, the husband had taken her phone away, and the wife in distress had used her residential alarms to reach out for help. I was impressed with her quick thinking and creative approach in a life threatening situation.
I was reading Sis. Eubank's talk in the Ensign conference edition. Would you like your own copy? She spoke on four ways to "turn on your light." One way was to be different. She said "Innovation and creation are spiritual gifts. When we keep our covenants, it may make us different from others in our culture and society, but it gives us access to inspiration so we can think of different solutions, different approaches, different applications." You are different, and will be successful because of your ability to be innovative and creative.One day we received an alarm request from an alarm company, advising us that a residential alarm was going off, giving us the address, and location in the house. When the units responded, it was actually a domestic disturbance in progress, the husband had taken her phone away, and the wife in distress had used her residential alarms to reach out for help. I was impressed with her quick thinking and creative approach in a life threatening situation.
I was reading Sis. Eubank's talk in the Ensign conference edition. Would you like your own copy? She spoke on four ways to "turn on your light." One way was to be different. She said "Innovation and creation are spiritual gifts. When we keep our covenants, it may make us different from others in our culture and society, but it gives us access to inspiration so we can think of different solutions, different approaches, different applications." You are different, and will be successful because of your ability to be innovative and creative.
It was my birthday last week. It was a drift along kind of event. Made myself an apple pie when I fed the missionaries on Sunday. Received a call from my parents the day before, and a few calls the day of. Got a few Facebook messages. Work took the prize. I'll have to email you my adventures. Unbelievable. Your brother Tanner also turned 1/4 of a century. My first born. Another unbelievable. He has a good wife to help him celebrate, and a brother. It was a good day for him today.
As for our news this week, Breyer had a first grade program on The First Thanksgiving. She was one of 12 pilgrim women. There were also pilgrim men, Native American men and women, preacher men, turkeys and corn. Her group's standard line was, "Mercy me!" She and her troupe wore signs around their neck proclaiming what they were most thankful for. She said, "My new baby niece." She wore my apron and pioneer hat your grandmother made for me. How fun is that?
Miller's regular soccer season ended this week. Their last practice was in the dark, due to day light savings. They wore glow in the dark necklaces, and kicked a soccer ball that had been spray painted with glow in the dark paint. Miller will have basketball try outs tomorrow, more of a formality as he's already been reserved.
Sawyer had regional band competitions this week. Because clarinets fall in the popular instrument group with flutes and trumpets, he had to go to a pre try out. He was in a class room of twenty clarinets, and received a first place ranking He found out the next day he was 6th, out of 180 clarinets. On Saturday he had another try out, and made the first band, tenth chair. He was not feeling well, and feels likely just to make the first band. He had basketball try outs as well, and made the A team. He's excited to be back on the court oding what he does very well.
Cooper went up in plane at a Pecan Plantation event. It's his second time. His teacher snapped a photo for us this time. He really is serious about his aviation pursuits. Designing, building, flying, now ordering textbooks. I reminded him he has two other projects to worry about first: Getting his eagle scout project done, and getting a license.
We read your family letter for FHE just like you suggested. It was wonderful. Your siblings payed attention to your stories and examples. Thank you. We talked about doing 25 days of service, and will try to keep you posted on our attempts at Love.
Which I have lots of for you.
Be careful.
Mom
Friday, November 10, 2017
Thursday, November 9, 2017
College Correspondent
The Man in the Arena
This week saw my return, this time triumphant to chess club. I was asked to be a part of the team sent to the Pan-American Intercollegiate Chess Tournament. Unfortunately, it’s held in Columbus, Ohio during Christmas Break, so I don’t think I’ll be going.
I asked out a girl from one of my classes, and if you’re wondering how it went, let’s just say that this would be an appropriate place for the following:
“The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.”
Yes, judging by this poignant, impassioned speech, good ol’ Teddy Roosevelt must have suffered his dating defeats as well.
One of my roommates told me that getting turned down meant I could treat myself to something. I think he meant ice cream or a snickers bar, but I went and bought bitcoin. Those who know me, know that I am extremely cautious with money and that it takes months for me to buy the simplest (non-food) items. I wanted to buy Bitcoin before my mission, with the money left over, but my last day, the internet went down. I left instructions with the family to purchase it for me, but alas, it was not to be. At the time, the price was $200 something. It reached $7000 this week. 3000% gain in two years. Oh well. I still feel like it has a lot of room to grow, and expect to see it reach $10,000 before the end of the year. And don’t worry, I’m not risking the farm, you are able to buy 1/ 1 millionth of a coin.
On Wednesday, dateless, I went with a friend to see the BYU Symphony play. They played a variety of dances, mostly by some Russian composers. And Friday, dateless, I went solo to see the Wind Symphony play. And won a gift card to a soda parlor while there, so, if I do get a date, I’ll know where to go. Tanner always kids me that my favorite instrument is a trumpet- something brash and powerful. No, I think I’d choose strings any day. However, after hearing the wind symphony, I must admit, it is overpowering what a good brass section can do. And similarly, while I think I like adagios better, the marches I heard were good pick-me uppers.
Saturday, I cleaned the house, did laundry, etc, and went shopping at Costco with Tanner and AnneMarie. The kitchen shelves were bare before, but have since feasted. Think fish, and cranberry sauce, and rolls. Yummy. Thats what happens when your teachers don’t assign any homework. I am up 4 pounds this semester, with a goal of between 7-10 more to get back to that pre-mish weight.
This weekend was stake conference and it was one of the best I’ve ever been to. Every talk was fabulous and inspiring. The Spirit was strong throughout the conference. And, Sunday morning we were sweetly serenaded to by a Polynesian Choir singing in Samoan. Oh yeah. If you haven’t heard it, put this on your bucketlist. They have the gift of music and sing happiness.
And Sunday evening I spent with Tanmarie again, joining them for dinner and fun games. Crazy to think I’ll be joining unclehood in like 2.5 weeks.
This week saw my return, this time triumphant to chess club. I was asked to be a part of the team sent to the Pan-American Intercollegiate Chess Tournament. Unfortunately, it’s held in Columbus, Ohio during Christmas Break, so I don’t think I’ll be going.
I asked out a girl from one of my classes, and if you’re wondering how it went, let’s just say that this would be an appropriate place for the following:
“The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.”
Yes, judging by this poignant, impassioned speech, good ol’ Teddy Roosevelt must have suffered his dating defeats as well.
One of my roommates told me that getting turned down meant I could treat myself to something. I think he meant ice cream or a snickers bar, but I went and bought bitcoin. Those who know me, know that I am extremely cautious with money and that it takes months for me to buy the simplest (non-food) items. I wanted to buy Bitcoin before my mission, with the money left over, but my last day, the internet went down. I left instructions with the family to purchase it for me, but alas, it was not to be. At the time, the price was $200 something. It reached $7000 this week. 3000% gain in two years. Oh well. I still feel like it has a lot of room to grow, and expect to see it reach $10,000 before the end of the year. And don’t worry, I’m not risking the farm, you are able to buy 1/ 1 millionth of a coin.
On Wednesday, dateless, I went with a friend to see the BYU Symphony play. They played a variety of dances, mostly by some Russian composers. And Friday, dateless, I went solo to see the Wind Symphony play. And won a gift card to a soda parlor while there, so, if I do get a date, I’ll know where to go. Tanner always kids me that my favorite instrument is a trumpet- something brash and powerful. No, I think I’d choose strings any day. However, after hearing the wind symphony, I must admit, it is overpowering what a good brass section can do. And similarly, while I think I like adagios better, the marches I heard were good pick-me uppers.
Saturday, I cleaned the house, did laundry, etc, and went shopping at Costco with Tanner and AnneMarie. The kitchen shelves were bare before, but have since feasted. Think fish, and cranberry sauce, and rolls. Yummy. Thats what happens when your teachers don’t assign any homework. I am up 4 pounds this semester, with a goal of between 7-10 more to get back to that pre-mish weight.
This weekend was stake conference and it was one of the best I’ve ever been to. Every talk was fabulous and inspiring. The Spirit was strong throughout the conference. And, Sunday morning we were sweetly serenaded to by a Polynesian Choir singing in Samoan. Oh yeah. If you haven’t heard it, put this on your bucketlist. They have the gift of music and sing happiness.
And Sunday evening I spent with Tanmarie again, joining them for dinner and fun games. Crazy to think I’ll be joining unclehood in like 2.5 weeks.
Wednesday, November 8, 2017
Monday, November 6, 2017
Letter #13
Dear Family,
So, before things get too exciting, let´s just get food out of the way. Had my first piece of unplucked chicken, do no recommend. Also, had Currant juice, which was A1, high class.
Now, what´s so exciting. I witnessed a man, on our hour long bus ride, not able to hold it in. So, he emptied it out. First the thermos filled with coffee #WordOfWisdom, then he filled it back up (for our younger readers, I will abstain from giving a descriptive name to the steamy yellow stuff) and then he emptied it out.
Thankfully, we were in the same row as him and not one of the unlucky ones trying to catch a little breeze through the window. They ended up catching something else. Why was I on a bus for an hour and a half?
Well, for only the first time in Campinas Brazil Mission history (so I´ve been told) an Elder in his first area is being transferred, unsolicited. It´s me. I´m no longer in Amarais, I´m now in Itatiba. Doing what? With who? Good perguntas everyone.
I´m with Elder Orteney, and we´ve been assigned to open a new area, here in the city, and our special assignment, lay the groundworks for a second ward in the city. Sub-Mission accepted
ITATIBA
So, for those of you who aren´t familiar with small Brazilian geography, I will describe.
Take San Francisco, sunny, breezy......Keep the breeze, lose the sun. Done? Now, add hills
Some of you might be saying, it already has hills? Not like these
I don´t think there is a single hill in San Francisco steep enough that you have to transverse back and forth across the streets so that you can make progress. Hills here are often steeper than 45 degrees, which means when it rains, it´s almost impossible to walk up or down the hills safely. Almost. We make do. This picture, features Elder O (from Tanner´s mission I think) is one of said hills? Doesn´t look that steep?
We´re walking up a steep hill, probably close to 45 degrees, with another steeper hill to come. The calves will be looking FIIIINNNNE by the time I leave.
And this brings us to the thought. The hills are rough. Every day, 9:30, we leave the house and walk, all day, until 9:00. For every down hill, there´s two uphill. For every sure step, there is a slip and a slide. For every open door, there is countless unanswered.
And every day, at 9:00, when we go home, we go home to the same place. All those hills, doors, scrapes, soaked clothes, and we´re ending up walking in the same door. Same bed. Same dirt floor
A little depressing, repeating this routine with the same end result every day, a little hard.
But, then I remember everything that happened in those 11 and a half hours. We talked to more than 300 people, we taught families that they can be together for ever, we walked hills that most people can´t imagine. The things we´re doing more than make up for the trials. If it isn't hard, the reward isn't what you need.
Maybe I already shared it, but I'm going do it again,.
Romans 8:18 "The sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us."
If every hill, every slide, every man pee-ing freely on the bus, every canceled lunch, every dirty look, every step, if these are sufferings, watch out. Itatiba has a glory, in it´s hills, in it´s people, and hopefully in us.
The hills are ready to be climbed.
Here we go, round two
Love you all, love hearing from you all,
Love Elder Put That Thermos Back Where It Came From Or So Help Me
So, before things get too exciting, let´s just get food out of the way. Had my first piece of unplucked chicken, do no recommend. Also, had Currant juice, which was A1, high class.
Now, what´s so exciting. I witnessed a man, on our hour long bus ride, not able to hold it in. So, he emptied it out. First the thermos filled with coffee #WordOfWisdom, then he filled it back up (for our younger readers, I will abstain from giving a descriptive name to the steamy yellow stuff) and then he emptied it out.
Thankfully, we were in the same row as him and not one of the unlucky ones trying to catch a little breeze through the window. They ended up catching something else. Why was I on a bus for an hour and a half?
Well, for only the first time in Campinas Brazil Mission history (so I´ve been told) an Elder in his first area is being transferred, unsolicited. It´s me. I´m no longer in Amarais, I´m now in Itatiba. Doing what? With who? Good perguntas everyone.
I´m with Elder Orteney, and we´ve been assigned to open a new area, here in the city, and our special assignment, lay the groundworks for a second ward in the city. Sub-Mission accepted
ITATIBA
So, for those of you who aren´t familiar with small Brazilian geography, I will describe.
Take San Francisco, sunny, breezy......Keep the breeze, lose the sun. Done? Now, add hills
Some of you might be saying, it already has hills? Not like these
We´re walking up a steep hill, probably close to 45 degrees, with another steeper hill to come. The calves will be looking FIIIINNNNE by the time I leave.
And this brings us to the thought. The hills are rough. Every day, 9:30, we leave the house and walk, all day, until 9:00. For every down hill, there´s two uphill. For every sure step, there is a slip and a slide. For every open door, there is countless unanswered.
And every day, at 9:00, when we go home, we go home to the same place. All those hills, doors, scrapes, soaked clothes, and we´re ending up walking in the same door. Same bed. Same dirt floor
A little depressing, repeating this routine with the same end result every day, a little hard.
But, then I remember everything that happened in those 11 and a half hours. We talked to more than 300 people, we taught families that they can be together for ever, we walked hills that most people can´t imagine. The things we´re doing more than make up for the trials. If it isn't hard, the reward isn't what you need.
Romans 8:18 "The sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us."
If every hill, every slide, every man pee-ing freely on the bus, every canceled lunch, every dirty look, every step, if these are sufferings, watch out. Itatiba has a glory, in it´s hills, in it´s people, and hopefully in us.
The hills are ready to be climbed.
Here we go, round two
Love you all, love hearing from you all,
Love Elder Put That Thermos Back Where It Came From Or So Help Me
Sunday, November 5, 2017
With All My Love
Dear Elder Schenewark,
The big news this week is that your cousin Kaleb came home from his Alaskan mission. Aunt Becky is beside herself. It's so good to have him home. He was on the roof the next morning with his father, broken knee cap, brace, and all.
I loved, loved, loved your letters. They came Saturday. What a treat, to hear from you two times this week. Your handwriting is even more beautiful, and your words made me cry. I read them all, but mine is my favorite. "When I left, and every week since then, you tell me the same thing - to come back to you. And I will. I promise I'll be back. But I'm not going to come back the same person. I will come back better, more Christlike, more the person you want me to be. I love every day because it's one day closer to coming back to you."
How can a mother not read those words and feel success. That the child of her heart has this understanding and love is all a mother would wish for all her children. I miss you. I think of you so much. I cry with your aunts on the phone. I cry when your grandmother read her letter from you to me. It's all good. So, so proud knowing you're in the right place at the right time,doing the right thing.
Your Fairland High School Spanish teacher, Mrs. Lovejoy, read your letter and said, "I always receive such a blessing from reading the blogs from your boys! Thank you so much for sharing and bringing this one to my attention! If God has been able to use me in the mission field in any small way, my daily efforts have not been in vain! Continued prayers for Porter as he continues his journey!"
Hunter told us this week that he was asked to represent BYU in the intercollegiate chess championships, in Columbus, OH over Christmas break. They take the top four, and Hunter made the cut. We've been discussing whether or not he will be going. He confessed he goes maybe every other week, and is still not up to par after not playing for two years, but still good enough to go.
Sawyer, out of 50 band members, scored in the top five, by points. He was happy considering he has the minimum practice time, and most of that happens on one day during sectionals. He's well rounded. He had his last football game this week, and scored three touchdown runs, one for 90 yards. Unfortunately, all three times the same teammate caused a holding penalty and none of them counted. The field was wet, the weather rainy, and the pass was not utilized as often as in the past, but he filled up the time with a lot of tackles. Basketball try outs begin tomorrow after school. He's excited. Miller's already been contacted by a coach, as new rules this year dictate two players can be reserved
I confess that one morning, when I was bringing in extra bags of stuff to work, and driving the SUV I normally don't drive to work unless it's raining, that I forgot to turn off the car. Ten hours later, as I'm digging in my purse, I realize my car is on, and my keys still in the ignition. No one stole the car, no one turned off the engine, no one picked up a phone. And I arrived safely home. I now know my car will idle for ten hours. And still work. Lots of relief knowing my day could have been so much worse besides a bit of gas.
Halloween was this week as well, but the first in 25 years we did not trick or treat. It was a cold rainy day, and by the time Sawyer's game ended, we just stayed tucked in. Your sister was my main concern, and she was fine. All the candy they picked up Saturday at the church event is gone. It's weird not to have jars of candy lining our counter! Our Halloween scream goes to Breyer. I was getting ready to walk out the door at 4:30 a.m. and Breyer was up and walking in the dark. She let loose a scream worth a million bucks on the big screen. High, loud, and long. Good morning to me. She thought I was a ghost. I couldn't think. But she went back to bed, with Dad, and all was well.
Miller and Breyer both played soccer on Saturday, in beautiful fall weather, and Breyer's season is over. She was not feeling great, which I didn't know until the game was over, and was not surprised when today she stayed home from church. I was suspecting strep, with her fever and sore throat, but it's a virus. Your father will be staying home with her in the morning. Miller is excited he won't be riding the bus.
El Capitan and team did it again Tuesday night, taking down favored East Lyme, 3-2 in OT
ECC Conference Championship tonight vs Stonington (17-0-1) – ranked #2 in state.
“You can’t stop him, you can only hope to contain him”
Your twin on the other side. I know Kevin's mission is in Minnesota, Vietnamese speaking, but I'll have to find out the exact mission. Until then, enjoy!
Come back to me.
Love,
Mom
P.S. Sawyer: "And he's back. The Astro's have won the World Series for the first time since, actually for the first time ever. The only other team never to have won one is the Rangers. It was not the greatest game ever seen especially considering the Dodgers left on base at least 14 people. The final score was 5-1.James Harden scored his career high of 56 points in only 20 minutes. The Patriots are 6-2 and are still numero uno for their conference. The Celtics are also. Other than that there is not that much except for Giannis dunked from behind the free throw line . He is the first person to ever do that in a game considering Michael Jordan and Zach Lavine were both about 8 inched in front of it."
The big news this week is that your cousin Kaleb came home from his Alaskan mission. Aunt Becky is beside herself. It's so good to have him home. He was on the roof the next morning with his father, broken knee cap, brace, and all.
How can a mother not read those words and feel success. That the child of her heart has this understanding and love is all a mother would wish for all her children. I miss you. I think of you so much. I cry with your aunts on the phone. I cry when your grandmother read her letter from you to me. It's all good. So, so proud knowing you're in the right place at the right time,doing the right thing.
Your Fairland High School Spanish teacher, Mrs. Lovejoy, read your letter and said, "I always receive such a blessing from reading the blogs from your boys! Thank you so much for sharing and bringing this one to my attention! If God has been able to use me in the mission field in any small way, my daily efforts have not been in vain! Continued prayers for Porter as he continues his journey!"
Hunter told us this week that he was asked to represent BYU in the intercollegiate chess championships, in Columbus, OH over Christmas break. They take the top four, and Hunter made the cut. We've been discussing whether or not he will be going. He confessed he goes maybe every other week, and is still not up to par after not playing for two years, but still good enough to go.
Sawyer, out of 50 band members, scored in the top five, by points. He was happy considering he has the minimum practice time, and most of that happens on one day during sectionals. He's well rounded. He had his last football game this week, and scored three touchdown runs, one for 90 yards. Unfortunately, all three times the same teammate caused a holding penalty and none of them counted. The field was wet, the weather rainy, and the pass was not utilized as often as in the past, but he filled up the time with a lot of tackles. Basketball try outs begin tomorrow after school. He's excited. Miller's already been contacted by a coach, as new rules this year dictate two players can be reserved
I confess that one morning, when I was bringing in extra bags of stuff to work, and driving the SUV I normally don't drive to work unless it's raining, that I forgot to turn off the car. Ten hours later, as I'm digging in my purse, I realize my car is on, and my keys still in the ignition. No one stole the car, no one turned off the engine, no one picked up a phone. And I arrived safely home. I now know my car will idle for ten hours. And still work. Lots of relief knowing my day could have been so much worse besides a bit of gas.
Halloween was this week as well, but the first in 25 years we did not trick or treat. It was a cold rainy day, and by the time Sawyer's game ended, we just stayed tucked in. Your sister was my main concern, and she was fine. All the candy they picked up Saturday at the church event is gone. It's weird not to have jars of candy lining our counter! Our Halloween scream goes to Breyer. I was getting ready to walk out the door at 4:30 a.m. and Breyer was up and walking in the dark. She let loose a scream worth a million bucks on the big screen. High, loud, and long. Good morning to me. She thought I was a ghost. I couldn't think. But she went back to bed, with Dad, and all was well.
Miller and Breyer both played soccer on Saturday, in beautiful fall weather, and Breyer's season is over. She was not feeling great, which I didn't know until the game was over, and was not surprised when today she stayed home from church. I was suspecting strep, with her fever and sore throat, but it's a virus. Your father will be staying home with her in the morning. Miller is excited he won't be riding the bus.
El Capitan and team did it again Tuesday night, taking down favored East Lyme, 3-2 in OT
ECC Conference Championship tonight vs Stonington (17-0-1) – ranked #2 in state.
“You can’t stop him, you can only hope to contain him”
Your twin on the other side. I know Kevin's mission is in Minnesota, Vietnamese speaking, but I'll have to find out the exact mission. Until then, enjoy!
Come back to me.
Love,
Mom
P.S. Sawyer: "And he's back. The Astro's have won the World Series for the first time since, actually for the first time ever. The only other team never to have won one is the Rangers. It was not the greatest game ever seen especially considering the Dodgers left on base at least 14 people. The final score was 5-1.James Harden scored his career high of 56 points in only 20 minutes. The Patriots are 6-2 and are still numero uno for their conference. The Celtics are also. Other than that there is not that much except for Giannis dunked from behind the free throw line . He is the first person to ever do that in a game considering Michael Jordan and Zach Lavine were both about 8 inched in front of it."
Saturday, November 4, 2017
Friday, November 3, 2017
College Correspondent
This week, swamped with tests and homework, the trumpets sounded and the cavalry arrived with reinforcements. A beautiful box from the Bach’s.
For FHE, we went to a giant corn maze and wandered around trying to find our way out.
I visited the Tabernacle replica, and have included some pictures. Like Uncle Zach, I found it fascinating that there was no light besides a potential heavenly figure to light up the Holy of Holies. Also, there is a rabbinic tradition that the High Priest who entered in, would first tie a rope around his waist, in case he was unworthy and smitten dead upon entering. Being the only authorized person, if someone else entered to pull his body out, he would also die. thus, the rope around the waist to prevent body buildup.
I went and listened to McKay Coppins speak; I honestly went because Tanner wanted me to, as well as to network a little, but I ended up thoroughly enjoying his speech. He talked about the changing face of journalism and how it is nigh impossible to find neutral reporting without the journalists using something to promote an agenda, and often in a way that is false. And, on the other side, when they do tell the truth, the public often doesn’t believe it, as especially since Trump became president, media bashing has become something of a national hobby.
I took three midterms this week, doing really well on two and not so hot on the last one.
There was another BYU football home game which I worked on Saturday. One more to go. It was nice to see the team pull out a win.
Church was special today. Sacrament was fantastic all around, I taught family history class, and 3rd hour was a combined meeting where social services came and talked about dating for an hour. Their presentation was very well done, and I walked away having learned. Also, with family history, I stumbled across this website, http://geogen.stoepel.net/
Plugging in the name Schenewark, you can tell that the name must have been changed. Schenewerk likewise yields nothing. However, Schoenewerk does, and provides a rough estimate of where our ancestors came from. The website shows where modern day Germans live, based on telephone records.
Today, I went to Uncle Ben and Aunt Joy’s house. Like usual, dinner was fabulous, nevertheless, the highlight was seeing Grampy and Mimi. The always lively conversation included discussing possible family reunions being on a cruise, and how the various couples assembled became engaged. That was enlightening. I knew Tanner’s, and most of Grampy’s, but had never heard Uncle Ben’s nor Bro. Tenney’s. Mimi told of being chased by countless suitors, and rejecting proposals by Grampy many times, and even fleeing to Connecticut for a time and changing her name there to have some peace.
Of course, while working there at a restaurant, “Kim” was proposed to by some patron. She was offered a hefty monthly payout not to marry Grampy; I knew all this, however, it was new hearing about Mouhmed Ab????? apparently another suitor and son of the Iraqi ambassador to the USA. Wild times I tell you. Uncle Ben proposed after dating for two weeks before summer break, and two weeks after. But hey, when you know, you know. He proposed at Thanksgiving Point, Aunt Joy having picked him up at the airport, and as he knelt, the sprinklers rotated and sprayed Aunt Joy in the face while Indiana Jones escaped with his head (and a fiance). Like nearly all good relationships, Sister Tenney rejected Bro. Tenney many times before accepting. He met her the same night he was released from his mission. He asked to go out many times, but she rejected each. She was studying at San Diego St. and he left to return to BYU. However, at Christmas break, she finally accepted, having seen he wasn’t leaving what he learned on his mission behind him. They also moved quickly, dating from December and getting engaged in February.
I read all of Bruce R. McConkie’s biography this week; I know, now you are thinking obviously this week wasn’t too hard after all. Well, there might be some truth to that, but more than that, this book was spellbinding. I could write much about what I learned from the book, but for now, I’ll include only one brief quote. When asked to define greatness, he said “True greatness is found only in the family.” Think about that. For all who are reading, I am thankful you are part of my family.
For FHE, we went to a giant corn maze and wandered around trying to find our way out.
I visited the Tabernacle replica, and have included some pictures. Like Uncle Zach, I found it fascinating that there was no light besides a potential heavenly figure to light up the Holy of Holies. Also, there is a rabbinic tradition that the High Priest who entered in, would first tie a rope around his waist, in case he was unworthy and smitten dead upon entering. Being the only authorized person, if someone else entered to pull his body out, he would also die. thus, the rope around the waist to prevent body buildup.
I took three midterms this week, doing really well on two and not so hot on the last one.
There was another BYU football home game which I worked on Saturday. One more to go. It was nice to see the team pull out a win.
Church was special today. Sacrament was fantastic all around, I taught family history class, and 3rd hour was a combined meeting where social services came and talked about dating for an hour. Their presentation was very well done, and I walked away having learned. Also, with family history, I stumbled across this website, http://geogen.stoepel.net/
Plugging in the name Schenewark, you can tell that the name must have been changed. Schenewerk likewise yields nothing. However, Schoenewerk does, and provides a rough estimate of where our ancestors came from. The website shows where modern day Germans live, based on telephone records.
Today, I went to Uncle Ben and Aunt Joy’s house. Like usual, dinner was fabulous, nevertheless, the highlight was seeing Grampy and Mimi. The always lively conversation included discussing possible family reunions being on a cruise, and how the various couples assembled became engaged. That was enlightening. I knew Tanner’s, and most of Grampy’s, but had never heard Uncle Ben’s nor Bro. Tenney’s. Mimi told of being chased by countless suitors, and rejecting proposals by Grampy many times, and even fleeing to Connecticut for a time and changing her name there to have some peace.
I read all of Bruce R. McConkie’s biography this week; I know, now you are thinking obviously this week wasn’t too hard after all. Well, there might be some truth to that, but more than that, this book was spellbinding. I could write much about what I learned from the book, but for now, I’ll include only one brief quote. When asked to define greatness, he said “True greatness is found only in the family.” Think about that. For all who are reading, I am thankful you are part of my family.
Thursday, November 2, 2017
Wednesday, November 1, 2017
Plane Preview
Cooper is building a Vans RV 12 in his class, an "Eagle Nest" program that has students building a full size airplane from the ground up.
This is last year's airplane, built by a group of 24 students, and on the runway for its debut flight.
Their motto?
"Mentors build the students, students build the airplane"
Next fall Cooper's plane will be show cased at the Granbury airport.
He went to the Fort Worth airshow to support the former class and their plane.
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