Friday, November 30, 2018
Wednesday, November 28, 2018
College Correspondent
And the Desert is Singing – 10/21/2018 to 11/25/2018
I don't do fake news, just old news. Alas, for a month I've struggled to write this. But I expect the next two weeks to be even busier, so this is my last chance. A quick chiasmus:
I went on a few dates to Jamestown Assisted Living.
I went to BYU's Philharmonic Orchestra. (La Mer 2/10) Accompanied by a genuine Debussy fan, Robert Wagner.
The MaeserLaser continues to stagnate, with only one issue published. Our last meeting was held at 5 am to accommodate the Board members' schedules.
Cousins Sarah and Naomi visited for dinner and then Spanish Fork Festival of Lights.
My family history classes are requiring way more time than I ever anticipated (or have spent on a class before.) I've been able to accomplish everything I've needed to. While a struggle, the Lord has blessed me in my labors.
Christmas season has arrived - and because Christ lives, we shall too!
I've never felt alone, and have been blessed with countless opportunities to serve.
I love family history, and have appreciated every piece of information I've found.
I visited the Mount Timpanogos temple with Sarah. Beautiful! We loved the purple accents.
Amidst the madness, I've picked up painting. Just do it! Jumping in, I've discovered a part of me that's lain dormant far too long.
I attended BYU's wind symphony.
Pres. Neider came through, and set me up with Callie - we went to a BYU women's volleyball game, then met up with some friends for hot chocolate and banana muffins. (why not?)
Other highlights:
The apartment complex sponsored a cheese and chocolate tasting. I showed up to the sparsely attended event shortly before the end, and thus walked home with various blocks of hard cheeses. My favorite!
Forget home teaching! Ministering activities have included making German pancakes and hiking Squaw Peak admiring the turning leaves.
I went golfing at Fox Hollow in American Fork for the first time. The course was immaculate, and very mature looking, belonging to the area and not imposing itself onto nature like so many other courses. We were surrounded by trees and felt separated from the town that was in reality very close by.
New favorite hobby? Painting is a close second, but really I love reciting agricultural facts. Average yield of potatoes per acre? Anything under 20,000 pounds is horrible! I could go on for hours..
Other educational attainments would include reading Aquinas, continuing Shakespeare, and through a combination of skype sessions with my Dad, and youtube videos, learning how to skin trout and catfish. I'll pass from now on with catfish, but a friend, John Groves, loves fishing and hates fish, and has brought me lots of fresh trout lately. Which I am thankful for, and even more so after having cleaned them myself. It is amazing what consciously thinking about the origins of your food, both plant and animal based does to you.
Besides the aforementioned date with Callie, I've taken more responsibility and have actually been asking for dates, instead of waiting to be set up. I went with my former co-worker, Mark Soelberg, his wife Hailey, and my date Susan to the Orchestra at Temple Square Fall Concert and we listened to their concert. I chose a good time to wear my homemade tie, as Susan loves to sew clothes as well. In attendance was Elder Uchtdorf and his wife.
Coincidentally, that week while walking on campus, everybody was saying "Hi!" "Good morning!" etc. and given the degree of enthusiasm and percentage of participation was confused - until I turned around and saw Elder Uchtdorf walking ten feet behind me. Turns out he was going to listen to the Russian ambassador to the US speak.
The most recent date was with McKinney - that was last Friday, Nov. 16th. We visited the classic Soap Factory. McKinney is a first-year law student from Maryland, having majored in American Studies and having served a mission to Belgium/ the Netherlands. And it appears a second date will happen.
Our Bishopric was released and while we miss them and appreciate their faithful service, it has been great having the new one. They've brought a renewed energy and enthusiasm.
The outgoing bishopric - we've enjoyed many memories together, and I'll forever remember my association with this fine group of gentlemen. Bro. Ken Kuhni, Bishop Rogelio Gonzalez, Bro. Allen Creer
Regrettably, I did not vote. That will haunt me for the rest of my life. While I also didn't vote in 2016 (or 2017), I have determined to not miss another opportunity. On election day, I ended up watching the news for some 6 hours (or more than the last three years combined) and have been bitten by the political bug again. As a side note, having not listened to the news, I was surprised how blatantly partisan the news has become, with NBC commentators being so blunt and open about their views, even going to the point of saying, "We're ahead in this district." or "We feel confident enough to declare that we'll win this seat." Clearly aligning themselves with the Democrats.
I listened to Lt. Gov. Spencer Cox and his wife speak to the LDS Stewardship Society about caring for the environment. I'm not a fan of many of his views, but enjoyed hearing about his farm, admire the way he appears to balance civic and family responsibilities, and will never forget meeting when at a dinner I attended a few years ago, his band, playing, rocking in style, including the cover, "All these things I've done" by the Killers.
Besides the concerts mentioned, I also went to the BYU Symphony Orchestra. I hadn't planned to, but when I saw their program, I ran out of my house, bringing my homework with me, and made it just in time. The program included a full five songs on my Music Bucket list. And it did not disappoint! Wow! That was some concert, and I left floating through the clouds. I loved clapping with the Radetzy March more than I imagined, and puhleaaaase. Wagner? Any day. He is my undeniable favorite composer. Plus the Emperor Waltz. What goodness and beauty.
Thanksgiving was spent with Uncle Ben and Aunt Joy. They were very gracious in allowing two of my friends who had no place to go come along. We enjoyed a feast, and settled in to watch Mission Impossible III. I brought scalloped potatoes, rolls, squash and zucchini, chocolate cream pie, banana cream pie, and a strawberry/rhubarb pie.
And for Black Friday, (first time participating) I bought $6.40 after tax bedsheets from Macy's.
Yesterday, I spent most of the day in Salt Lake City at the Family History Library. I was transported to Maine there, and spent hours poring over records, completely amazed by stories recorded by my ancestors. Due to the hour, it shall remain until another day, but I'll just say there were kidnappings by Indians, near starvation, and above all else, an overwhelming reliance on God.
As a final note, I've been golfing twice with Abby's boyfriend, Michael. He has a corporate pass to Sleepy Ridge, and golfing for free has been wonderful, and its been cool to get to know him.
This is an oft-quoted scripture, but my testimony continues to grow that truly "yea, [the word] had had a more powerful effect upon the minds of the people than the sword, or anything else.." I know that the scriptures change us, and bring the power of God into our lives. Whatever we want to change in our lives, the scriptures are the catalyst for change. Read them!
I don't do fake news, just old news. Alas, for a month I've struggled to write this. But I expect the next two weeks to be even busier, so this is my last chance. A quick chiasmus:
I went on a few dates to Jamestown Assisted Living.
I went to BYU's Philharmonic Orchestra. (La Mer 2/10) Accompanied by a genuine Debussy fan, Robert Wagner.
The MaeserLaser continues to stagnate, with only one issue published. Our last meeting was held at 5 am to accommodate the Board members' schedules.
Cousins Sarah and Naomi visited for dinner and then Spanish Fork Festival of Lights.
My family history classes are requiring way more time than I ever anticipated (or have spent on a class before.) I've been able to accomplish everything I've needed to. While a struggle, the Lord has blessed me in my labors.
Christmas season has arrived - and because Christ lives, we shall too!
I've never felt alone, and have been blessed with countless opportunities to serve.
I love family history, and have appreciated every piece of information I've found.
I visited the Mount Timpanogos temple with Sarah. Beautiful! We loved the purple accents.
Amidst the madness, I've picked up painting. Just do it! Jumping in, I've discovered a part of me that's lain dormant far too long.
I attended BYU's wind symphony.
Pres. Neider came through, and set me up with Callie - we went to a BYU women's volleyball game, then met up with some friends for hot chocolate and banana muffins. (why not?)
Other highlights:
The apartment complex sponsored a cheese and chocolate tasting. I showed up to the sparsely attended event shortly before the end, and thus walked home with various blocks of hard cheeses. My favorite!
Forget home teaching! Ministering activities have included making German pancakes and hiking Squaw Peak admiring the turning leaves.
I went golfing at Fox Hollow in American Fork for the first time. The course was immaculate, and very mature looking, belonging to the area and not imposing itself onto nature like so many other courses. We were surrounded by trees and felt separated from the town that was in reality very close by.
New favorite hobby? Painting is a close second, but really I love reciting agricultural facts. Average yield of potatoes per acre? Anything under 20,000 pounds is horrible! I could go on for hours..
Other educational attainments would include reading Aquinas, continuing Shakespeare, and through a combination of skype sessions with my Dad, and youtube videos, learning how to skin trout and catfish. I'll pass from now on with catfish, but a friend, John Groves, loves fishing and hates fish, and has brought me lots of fresh trout lately. Which I am thankful for, and even more so after having cleaned them myself. It is amazing what consciously thinking about the origins of your food, both plant and animal based does to you.
Besides the aforementioned date with Callie, I've taken more responsibility and have actually been asking for dates, instead of waiting to be set up. I went with my former co-worker, Mark Soelberg, his wife Hailey, and my date Susan to the Orchestra at Temple Square Fall Concert and we listened to their concert. I chose a good time to wear my homemade tie, as Susan loves to sew clothes as well. In attendance was Elder Uchtdorf and his wife.
Coincidentally, that week while walking on campus, everybody was saying "Hi!" "Good morning!" etc. and given the degree of enthusiasm and percentage of participation was confused - until I turned around and saw Elder Uchtdorf walking ten feet behind me. Turns out he was going to listen to the Russian ambassador to the US speak.
The most recent date was with McKinney - that was last Friday, Nov. 16th. We visited the classic Soap Factory. McKinney is a first-year law student from Maryland, having majored in American Studies and having served a mission to Belgium/ the Netherlands. And it appears a second date will happen.
Our Bishopric was released and while we miss them and appreciate their faithful service, it has been great having the new one. They've brought a renewed energy and enthusiasm.
The outgoing bishopric - we've enjoyed many memories together, and I'll forever remember my association with this fine group of gentlemen. Bro. Ken Kuhni, Bishop Rogelio Gonzalez, Bro. Allen Creer
Regrettably, I did not vote. That will haunt me for the rest of my life. While I also didn't vote in 2016 (or 2017), I have determined to not miss another opportunity. On election day, I ended up watching the news for some 6 hours (or more than the last three years combined) and have been bitten by the political bug again. As a side note, having not listened to the news, I was surprised how blatantly partisan the news has become, with NBC commentators being so blunt and open about their views, even going to the point of saying, "We're ahead in this district." or "We feel confident enough to declare that we'll win this seat." Clearly aligning themselves with the Democrats.
I listened to Lt. Gov. Spencer Cox and his wife speak to the LDS Stewardship Society about caring for the environment. I'm not a fan of many of his views, but enjoyed hearing about his farm, admire the way he appears to balance civic and family responsibilities, and will never forget meeting when at a dinner I attended a few years ago, his band, playing, rocking in style, including the cover, "All these things I've done" by the Killers.
Besides the concerts mentioned, I also went to the BYU Symphony Orchestra. I hadn't planned to, but when I saw their program, I ran out of my house, bringing my homework with me, and made it just in time. The program included a full five songs on my Music Bucket list. And it did not disappoint! Wow! That was some concert, and I left floating through the clouds. I loved clapping with the Radetzy March more than I imagined, and puhleaaaase. Wagner? Any day. He is my undeniable favorite composer. Plus the Emperor Waltz. What goodness and beauty.
Thanksgiving was spent with Uncle Ben and Aunt Joy. They were very gracious in allowing two of my friends who had no place to go come along. We enjoyed a feast, and settled in to watch Mission Impossible III. I brought scalloped potatoes, rolls, squash and zucchini, chocolate cream pie, banana cream pie, and a strawberry/rhubarb pie.
And for Black Friday, (first time participating) I bought $6.40 after tax bedsheets from Macy's.
Yesterday, I spent most of the day in Salt Lake City at the Family History Library. I was transported to Maine there, and spent hours poring over records, completely amazed by stories recorded by my ancestors. Due to the hour, it shall remain until another day, but I'll just say there were kidnappings by Indians, near starvation, and above all else, an overwhelming reliance on God.
As a final note, I've been golfing twice with Abby's boyfriend, Michael. He has a corporate pass to Sleepy Ridge, and golfing for free has been wonderful, and its been cool to get to know him.
This is an oft-quoted scripture, but my testimony continues to grow that truly "yea, [the word] had had a more powerful effect upon the minds of the people than the sword, or anything else.." I know that the scriptures change us, and bring the power of God into our lives. Whatever we want to change in our lives, the scriptures are the catalyst for change. Read them!
Tuesday, November 27, 2018
Be a Pineapple
The “Be a Pineapple: Stand tall, wear a crown and be sweet on the inside”
talk by their father took on a new meaning when they came out of the store
and found a pineapple under the windshield wiper.
Monday, November 26, 2018
Letter #66
Another fantastical week in the lovely wilderness of metropolitan south eastern Brasil. Palmeiras has clinched the national title #Verdão which meant a sleepless nights for the citizens of the state of São Paulo. Fireworks and fireworks and gun shots the whole night long.
Due to some excessive raining in the heavy populated areas of the city. São Paulo, people have been practicing their swimming. Buses were wet up to the roof and cars functioned more like poorly made river rafts. We're waiting to hear if our help will be required with the clean up in the southern hemisphere's most populated city.
The pictures will take a little longer, we're hoping for next week. I had to make a decision this week, so like most things, we turned it into a game.
BUY or DYE!!!
Which clothes, specifically the pants, are worth trying to preserve until the next July and which should be thrown out and replace, with just seven months left in the mission. The jury came in....let's dye them all. Well, that's one way to spend a rainy P-day.
Due to some excessive raining in the heavy populated areas of the city. São Paulo, people have been practicing their swimming. Buses were wet up to the roof and cars functioned more like poorly made river rafts. We're waiting to hear if our help will be required with the clean up in the southern hemisphere's most populated city.
The pictures will take a little longer, we're hoping for next week. I had to make a decision this week, so like most things, we turned it into a game.
BUY or DYE!!!
Which clothes, specifically the pants, are worth trying to preserve until the next July and which should be thrown out and replace, with just seven months left in the mission. The jury came in....let's dye them all. Well, that's one way to spend a rainy P-day.
And highlight of the week. Some lady was looking at a family picture from about three years ago and asked me, "Is this is your mom?" I was a little confused because it's just the seven children, no parents. What a riot, discovering which one of your brothers is the lookiest alike with a mom figure. I'll save the burn for a later date, I'm sure it'll come in handy.
I love you, love this work and the chance that I have to serve. Let us all press on, at least until next week.
Sincerely,
Elder 1930's Grandma
I love you, love this work and the chance that I have to serve. Let us all press on, at least until next week.
Sincerely,
Elder 1930's Grandma
Sunday, November 25, 2018
With All My Love
Dear Elder Schenewark,
Truly Thanksgiving week was an epic week. I don't think we could have fit any more in than we did. And really it wasn't a full week, more like a long weekend. Zach and his family arrived from Colorado Tuesday evening, after a very long drive We had the choice to go up there or have them come down here. Clearly we picked the better option. Anything to avoid the long car ride.
We took them to the city beach where they built a large sand castle and moat, were brave enough to dip their feet into the water, and run the pier. We went across the street to the city park where the young swung and slid and the older threw rocks and pine cones into the muck. Lincoln ran towards us, at one point, and fell into sludge that looked solid. Not quite sure what it is, but we took him home right away and made his world right with a large bubble bath and toys.
We played so many games. Zach brought a bagful, and I have a new favorite game: Splendor. He saw I loved it so much he already ordered and sent me one to put under my tree. His kids loved Castle Panic.
Jarrod took Sawyer and Cooper up to Tyler for the annual Turkey Trot, which had been previously arranged by your aunt. They were home in time to sit down and eat. Impeccable timing. And she already claimed Thanksgiving day for next year.
Wednesday evening Miller took Gabe to a mutual activity of capture the flag. I thought I'd be dropping him off and picking him up, so I left my wallet in the car after the beach. Only he was picked up and dropped off so my wallet remained out in the car, parked by the garage all night, and taken early Thanksgiving morning. No other vehicles were disturbed, no other items taken except my Kate Spade sunglasses I just picked up from my eyeglass benefit. By 8 a.m. my bank account had been emptied up in Benbrook and Fort Worth, and multiple chargers were coming through on my credit cards.
Because Miller wanted to go to an early morning turkey bowl game I realized my wallet was gone, and was able to cancel everything. I've already been refunded the fraudulent charges. I filed a report with the Hood County Sheriff's office. They confirmed that no other reports were made from the Bentwater area. Later this week I'll have to get a new license, and contact the social security office. I also filed a notice with the credit bureaus so no new accounts will be opened in my name. It's a disturbing thought realizing someone might try to be you. I wonder what they think of my temple recommend. I regret having my social security card in my wallet.
Other cousins activities included playing Legos, girl yoga, going on walks, throwing rocks in the Bentwater pond as well as fishing. Teaching the boys how to golf, and emptying the garage of a golf set or two. Or three. Taking them to the driving range up the street. Playing two on two basketball, and other court games. Using the fire pit. Shooting the bow and arrow. More games. We celebrated Lincoln's 5th birthday - Star Wars cake, hamburgers and fries. I even made him fried dough for breakfast. He's adorable.
We took the group to the Granbury light parade Friday night, our first time being in town Thanksgiving weekend. We loved it. So did the kids. Most of the floats were from churches, and the organizer asked Dad why our church wasn't in it. He plans on entering a float next year.
Jarrod and Sawyer were up by 5 a.m. Saturday morning to go to the temple. Cooper couldn't go because he said he had no clean pants. True story. I forgot to do wash. Zach and his family were gone during the 7 a.m. hour of the morning. By 9 a.m. Miller had a severe sore throat and a 102.8 fever. We made multiple trips to the urgent care clinic because every time we pulled up there were no seats and people sitting on the floor. Jarrod and Sawyer were back before 10, just in time to go to varsity basketball practice. He and two others were the only ones who went, out of the two freshmen teams and junior varsity. The coach told the varsity players they were being out rebounded by a freshmen. He was asked to shoot three point shots so they could practice rebounding but his shots kept going in.
Miller was into the doctors by 2, and had his first dose of medicine by 3. Unfortunately, he is allergic to the medicine but that's a whole other story for another day.
Breyer, Sawyer, Jarrod and I were given tickets to the Fort Worth symphony by Sawyer's friend, including valet parking, so we enjoyed a wonderful evening of music and laughs. We brought home shakes for the home bound.
While getting ready for church Sunday morning Breyer told me she had a sore throat. So we skipped out of church early, encountered bodies all over the urgent care center, but were patient enough to find out she also has strep. We caught her's at a much earlier stage so she hasn't been as miserable. Miller was given new medicine, and they're both on the mend. As I hope you are. I'm not quite sure I understood what happened last week. I'd appreciate your sharing more with me.
Your father gave a wonderful talk in church today - using the pineapple. I hope he can get on in the morning and give you a nice summary. But to sum it up. Stand tall, wear your crown, and be sweet.
Love,
Your Very Own Pineaple
Truly Thanksgiving week was an epic week. I don't think we could have fit any more in than we did. And really it wasn't a full week, more like a long weekend. Zach and his family arrived from Colorado Tuesday evening, after a very long drive We had the choice to go up there or have them come down here. Clearly we picked the better option. Anything to avoid the long car ride.
We took them to the city beach where they built a large sand castle and moat, were brave enough to dip their feet into the water, and run the pier. We went across the street to the city park where the young swung and slid and the older threw rocks and pine cones into the muck. Lincoln ran towards us, at one point, and fell into sludge that looked solid. Not quite sure what it is, but we took him home right away and made his world right with a large bubble bath and toys.
We played so many games. Zach brought a bagful, and I have a new favorite game: Splendor. He saw I loved it so much he already ordered and sent me one to put under my tree. His kids loved Castle Panic.
Wednesday evening Miller took Gabe to a mutual activity of capture the flag. I thought I'd be dropping him off and picking him up, so I left my wallet in the car after the beach. Only he was picked up and dropped off so my wallet remained out in the car, parked by the garage all night, and taken early Thanksgiving morning. No other vehicles were disturbed, no other items taken except my Kate Spade sunglasses I just picked up from my eyeglass benefit. By 8 a.m. my bank account had been emptied up in Benbrook and Fort Worth, and multiple chargers were coming through on my credit cards.
Because Miller wanted to go to an early morning turkey bowl game I realized my wallet was gone, and was able to cancel everything. I've already been refunded the fraudulent charges. I filed a report with the Hood County Sheriff's office. They confirmed that no other reports were made from the Bentwater area. Later this week I'll have to get a new license, and contact the social security office. I also filed a notice with the credit bureaus so no new accounts will be opened in my name. It's a disturbing thought realizing someone might try to be you. I wonder what they think of my temple recommend. I regret having my social security card in my wallet.
Other cousins activities included playing Legos, girl yoga, going on walks, throwing rocks in the Bentwater pond as well as fishing. Teaching the boys how to golf, and emptying the garage of a golf set or two. Or three. Taking them to the driving range up the street. Playing two on two basketball, and other court games. Using the fire pit. Shooting the bow and arrow. More games. We celebrated Lincoln's 5th birthday - Star Wars cake, hamburgers and fries. I even made him fried dough for breakfast. He's adorable.
We took the group to the Granbury light parade Friday night, our first time being in town Thanksgiving weekend. We loved it. So did the kids. Most of the floats were from churches, and the organizer asked Dad why our church wasn't in it. He plans on entering a float next year.
Jarrod and Sawyer were up by 5 a.m. Saturday morning to go to the temple. Cooper couldn't go because he said he had no clean pants. True story. I forgot to do wash. Zach and his family were gone during the 7 a.m. hour of the morning. By 9 a.m. Miller had a severe sore throat and a 102.8 fever. We made multiple trips to the urgent care clinic because every time we pulled up there were no seats and people sitting on the floor. Jarrod and Sawyer were back before 10, just in time to go to varsity basketball practice. He and two others were the only ones who went, out of the two freshmen teams and junior varsity. The coach told the varsity players they were being out rebounded by a freshmen. He was asked to shoot three point shots so they could practice rebounding but his shots kept going in.
Miller was into the doctors by 2, and had his first dose of medicine by 3. Unfortunately, he is allergic to the medicine but that's a whole other story for another day.
Breyer, Sawyer, Jarrod and I were given tickets to the Fort Worth symphony by Sawyer's friend, including valet parking, so we enjoyed a wonderful evening of music and laughs. We brought home shakes for the home bound.
While getting ready for church Sunday morning Breyer told me she had a sore throat. So we skipped out of church early, encountered bodies all over the urgent care center, but were patient enough to find out she also has strep. We caught her's at a much earlier stage so she hasn't been as miserable. Miller was given new medicine, and they're both on the mend. As I hope you are. I'm not quite sure I understood what happened last week. I'd appreciate your sharing more with me.
Your father gave a wonderful talk in church today - using the pineapple. I hope he can get on in the morning and give you a nice summary. But to sum it up. Stand tall, wear your crown, and be sweet.
Love,
Your Very Own Pineaple
Saturday, November 24, 2018
Friday, November 23, 2018
Nora N'Updates
Tanner and family in Vegas - celebrating November birthdays
Reminiscing over one year ago
Happy Birthday Nora!
Thursday, November 22, 2018
Wednesday, November 21, 2018
Princess Pole
My totem pole is standing for beauty and royalty.
My totem pole has a rainbow cat face, a rainbow jaguar body and rainbow bird wings.
My tribe is cold beauty spirits and I am the queen. We have been around more than 100 years.
Monday, November 19, 2018
Letter #65
So, lots of things going on. We have been spending all of our time with Denis, our beloved 30 year old smoker who is trying to stop smoking. It's a pretty constant necessity but as of now, we good.
Highlight/moment that will worry Mom the most.... I had to go to the hospital this week, some extreme muscle contusions or something like that. Anyways, got some niiice pain killers out of it, saving those for another day.
No, but seriously, Mom, it's all good here, I was under a lifting things off the ground ban, but i went ahead and lifted that too. #WordPlay
Highlight/moment that will worry Mom the most.... I had to go to the hospital this week, some extreme muscle contusions or something like that. Anyways, got some niiice pain killers out of it, saving those for another day.
No, but seriously, Mom, it's all good here, I was under a lifting things off the ground ban, but i went ahead and lifted that too. #WordPlay
The quick story. Sunday night, something just kinda happened, not sure how, but related to the walking. Monday, we endured, waiting for everything to go away, like it always does.
Tuesday, morning and afternoon, we had some vital commitments, I wasn't about to let a little cramp slow us down, so we marked for 5:00 with our ward mission leader.
5:00- As we are getting in the car, my companion's pants ripped from back to front. Because he was carrying my bag, he extended the straps of his and mine as far as they would go and stuck one in front and one behind.
Lots of laughs in the hospital stand up-sit down routine. We, as if we don't always stick out because of the white shirt/tie/tall/ preaching the gospel stuff, were at the side of a lady who was trying to teach herself how to hock a mean lugey. Quite successfully.
Now, everyone has already glanced our way multiple times, they decide to try to call my name.
Before the triage nurse got his poor attempt out of the way, every head, and I do not exaggerate, was looking at me waiting for me to stand up. But, it all worked out.
Anyways, this weekend we were blessed with another miracle, the baptism of
NEIDEWAGNER, whose story I will leave for next week because it involves an epic name, maybe more complicated than mine, because i am out of time, and because the computer is not letting us upload pictures. But, it's coming
Until next week, love
Elder Garry Jerry Larry Terry Gergich
Tuesday, morning and afternoon, we had some vital commitments, I wasn't about to let a little cramp slow us down, so we marked for 5:00 with our ward mission leader.
5:00- As we are getting in the car, my companion's pants ripped from back to front. Because he was carrying my bag, he extended the straps of his and mine as far as they would go and stuck one in front and one behind.
Lots of laughs in the hospital stand up-sit down routine. We, as if we don't always stick out because of the white shirt/tie/tall/ preaching the gospel stuff, were at the side of a lady who was trying to teach herself how to hock a mean lugey. Quite successfully.
Now, everyone has already glanced our way multiple times, they decide to try to call my name.
Before the triage nurse got his poor attempt out of the way, every head, and I do not exaggerate, was looking at me waiting for me to stand up. But, it all worked out.
Anyways, this weekend we were blessed with another miracle, the baptism of
NEIDEWAGNER, whose story I will leave for next week because it involves an epic name, maybe more complicated than mine, because i am out of time, and because the computer is not letting us upload pictures. But, it's coming
Until next week, love
Elder Garry Jerry Larry Terry Gergich
Sunday, November 18, 2018
With All My Love
Good morning, Elder Schenewark,
That’s my standard greeting for those checking in service for the day at work. That simple phrase can be just that – simple, or convey a multitude of meanings. This morning it’s I love you, I miss you, I’m so proud of you, I’m so excited to talk to you soon, I can hardly wait.
Loved your last letter. Do it again.
Breyer made me laugh one day while she was reminiscing about her nursery days in Granbury. We had just left West Virginia, and under Sis. Kirby’s tutelage and a small class of three-five, she had thrived. When we arrived in Granbury there were over twenty children in a crowded, noisy environment. “Mom, I did not like nursery. Please. They put their Cheetos in their water. Who does that? And where were the adults? I’m so glad I got out of there.”
Miller is excited to begin basketball. I know it’s all about sports with him, but it’s such a big part of who he is. He was asked to be on the recreational prime team, so he’ll have two games each weekend. And because of the Thanksgiving holiday break, he won’t begin this week. His latest craze is the frisbee. He watches how-to's on line, then goes outside by himself and throws.
The kids all got out of school Friday afternoon, and will have the entire next week off. I think we’re all ready for a break! Uncle Zach and his crew should be arriving Tuesday evening some time. Breyer and I have been cleaning house, changing beds, scrubbing the bathroom, and planning menus in preparation for their arrival.
Sawyer’s basketball season is in full swing. I stopped off on the way home in Joshua to see him play in his first freshman game. He was not feeling well, with cedar fever allergies making it difficult to breath, which made it difficult to run up and down the court. But he did well. They won, he played most of the game, including the start, made all his free throws but one, and walked away with at least 12 points. The coach just came from the football staff, met with them for about 15 minutes, and then had to coach the team. He quickly figured out which players had played together (AMS vs GMS), and who prevented the other team from scoring. Sawyer’s friend Nathan had a tremendous game and picked up the slack from Sawyer. They are good together. Sawyer is the glue. When he’s off the court, the level of play goes down, more to jungle ball.
I sat next to Nathan’s mother the entire game. I was so thrilled when she leaned over and asked, “Can I ask you something about your church?” Isn’t that the question we all wait to hear? She said her son Nathan wanted to go to church with Sawyer but didn’t know if he would be allowed. Because she’s a single mother, working a second job as a chauffeur on the weekends, Nathan will need to spend the night Saturday evenings so he can go. His bunk, above Sawyer, was ready to go. Nathan currently occupies the bunk. He was dropped off Saturday morning, rode with Sawyer to the high school to get on the bus, and played a game in Wichita Falls, over two hours away. After all the multiple games they pulled in close to 11 p.m.. Sawyer was played in the fourth spot, post this game, and scored 10 points in 90 seconds, including four free throws, a technical and two put backs. The T was for a player that was getting frustrated with his defense and pushed Sawyer to the ground. He actually fouled out of that game, not knowing he had that many fouls
Cooper had a double date Thursday to see a new movie, and again last night at the stake's monthly eat-free-with-a-date in Weatherford. He also found out he was the winner of a year supply of frozen yogurt, in a shop in Weatherford, He entered some kind of drawing when he was in their last week and was notified this week. He stopped in last night to claim his prize - some kind of VISA card I think. He was also asked to work for a man in the ward who has a knife making business on the side. He had Cooper come in to see how orders were filled. As Monday is their busiest day filling orders, he'll start this week while out on holiday. He'll be paid $13.50 an hour, for which he 's very grateful, doing something he thoroughly enjoys.
Your brother turned 26 years old this week. Tanner is now officially off of my insurance plan. Other than that, he's still Tanner. We love him.
Hunter's also alive and well. Really busy with school, work, and presidential duties. He had a date, probably the one he's been most excited about all semester. He was sticking with his old standby of making soap. We're waiting for the details.
Have you heard about the California fires? A camp fire started a fire that burned over night through the town of Paradise. Nobody knew, and 1000 are missing. Only 71 have been confirmed dead. Retrieving the bodies from burned structures and vehicles is arduous work. Law enforcement agencies all over the country, including Dallas, are now collecting DNA samples from concerned family members that are calling, to help the county to identify all the bodies as they're brought in.
Your father has continued to exercise like crazy, record what he eats, and checked in again for his weekly blood draw at work. He finally stepped on the scale yesterday, and is down 30 pounds in three weeks. That's crazy! That's more than a pound a day. In terms of my baking skillz, that's six 5 pound bags of flour. Thank you so much for sharing your blessings.
That’s my standard greeting for those checking in service for the day at work. That simple phrase can be just that – simple, or convey a multitude of meanings. This morning it’s I love you, I miss you, I’m so proud of you, I’m so excited to talk to you soon, I can hardly wait.
Loved your last letter. Do it again.
Breyer made me laugh one day while she was reminiscing about her nursery days in Granbury. We had just left West Virginia, and under Sis. Kirby’s tutelage and a small class of three-five, she had thrived. When we arrived in Granbury there were over twenty children in a crowded, noisy environment. “Mom, I did not like nursery. Please. They put their Cheetos in their water. Who does that? And where were the adults? I’m so glad I got out of there.”
Miller is excited to begin basketball. I know it’s all about sports with him, but it’s such a big part of who he is. He was asked to be on the recreational prime team, so he’ll have two games each weekend. And because of the Thanksgiving holiday break, he won’t begin this week. His latest craze is the frisbee. He watches how-to's on line, then goes outside by himself and throws.
The kids all got out of school Friday afternoon, and will have the entire next week off. I think we’re all ready for a break! Uncle Zach and his crew should be arriving Tuesday evening some time. Breyer and I have been cleaning house, changing beds, scrubbing the bathroom, and planning menus in preparation for their arrival.
Sawyer’s basketball season is in full swing. I stopped off on the way home in Joshua to see him play in his first freshman game. He was not feeling well, with cedar fever allergies making it difficult to breath, which made it difficult to run up and down the court. But he did well. They won, he played most of the game, including the start, made all his free throws but one, and walked away with at least 12 points. The coach just came from the football staff, met with them for about 15 minutes, and then had to coach the team. He quickly figured out which players had played together (AMS vs GMS), and who prevented the other team from scoring. Sawyer’s friend Nathan had a tremendous game and picked up the slack from Sawyer. They are good together. Sawyer is the glue. When he’s off the court, the level of play goes down, more to jungle ball.
I sat next to Nathan’s mother the entire game. I was so thrilled when she leaned over and asked, “Can I ask you something about your church?” Isn’t that the question we all wait to hear? She said her son Nathan wanted to go to church with Sawyer but didn’t know if he would be allowed. Because she’s a single mother, working a second job as a chauffeur on the weekends, Nathan will need to spend the night Saturday evenings so he can go. His bunk, above Sawyer, was ready to go. Nathan currently occupies the bunk. He was dropped off Saturday morning, rode with Sawyer to the high school to get on the bus, and played a game in Wichita Falls, over two hours away. After all the multiple games they pulled in close to 11 p.m.. Sawyer was played in the fourth spot, post this game, and scored 10 points in 90 seconds, including four free throws, a technical and two put backs. The T was for a player that was getting frustrated with his defense and pushed Sawyer to the ground. He actually fouled out of that game, not knowing he had that many fouls
Cooper had a double date Thursday to see a new movie, and again last night at the stake's monthly eat-free-with-a-date in Weatherford. He also found out he was the winner of a year supply of frozen yogurt, in a shop in Weatherford, He entered some kind of drawing when he was in their last week and was notified this week. He stopped in last night to claim his prize - some kind of VISA card I think. He was also asked to work for a man in the ward who has a knife making business on the side. He had Cooper come in to see how orders were filled. As Monday is their busiest day filling orders, he'll start this week while out on holiday. He'll be paid $13.50 an hour, for which he 's very grateful, doing something he thoroughly enjoys.
Your brother turned 26 years old this week. Tanner is now officially off of my insurance plan. Other than that, he's still Tanner. We love him.
Hunter's also alive and well. Really busy with school, work, and presidential duties. He had a date, probably the one he's been most excited about all semester. He was sticking with his old standby of making soap. We're waiting for the details.
Have you heard about the California fires? A camp fire started a fire that burned over night through the town of Paradise. Nobody knew, and 1000 are missing. Only 71 have been confirmed dead. Retrieving the bodies from burned structures and vehicles is arduous work. Law enforcement agencies all over the country, including Dallas, are now collecting DNA samples from concerned family members that are calling, to help the county to identify all the bodies as they're brought in.
Your father has continued to exercise like crazy, record what he eats, and checked in again for his weekly blood draw at work. He finally stepped on the scale yesterday, and is down 30 pounds in three weeks. That's crazy! That's more than a pound a day. In terms of my baking skillz, that's six 5 pound bags of flour. Thank you so much for sharing your blessings.
I spent a good portion of yesterday outdoors, readying the yard for winter. I mowed a large portion of the yard, spread two bags of dirt in holes created while developing the fire pit, cleaned up the fire pit area, replanted the flower pots out front, and filled a tub full of firewood for future fires. The wonderful part of being a homeowner is creating a home for you, including the outdoors. Doing things like this makes it more permanent, as you're investing yourself in your property. The second picture is a Meyer lemon tree, that will eventually have to be replanted, and will reproduce lemons. Obviously your father is very excited about that new addition. The third picture is a Scottish pine. There are two of them, and will also have to be replanted as they grow larger, but will also become a permanent part of our landscape, provided they are tended carefully. You're investing a large part of you with the people of Brazil, and are tending and caring for them under the direction of our Father in Heaven. Brazil will always hold a special place in your heart, and you will always consider that part of the world a piece of your home.
Stay safe. Know of my love for you and the work you are doing. Otherwise I'd never let you go.
Mom
Friday, November 16, 2018
Thursday, November 15, 2018
Wednesday, November 14, 2018
Tuesday, November 13, 2018
Shining Star Shout-Out!
Congratulations, Miller!
You are our class "Shining Star" for this six weeks!
You come to class every day with a positive attitude and always do your best.
I can count on you to be a positive role model to your classmates, and be a responsible contributor in 5th grade and around OWS.
You have shown leadership qualities as one of our class representatives for Stu-Co this year, and I can't wait to see all the wonderful things your future holds.
Keep up the good work. I'm so proud of you.
Love,
Mrs. Logsdon
You are our class "Shining Star" for this six weeks!
You come to class every day with a positive attitude and always do your best.
I can count on you to be a positive role model to your classmates, and be a responsible contributor in 5th grade and around OWS.
You have shown leadership qualities as one of our class representatives for Stu-Co this year, and I can't wait to see all the wonderful things your future holds.
Keep up the good work. I'm so proud of you.
Love,
Mrs. Logsdon
Monday, November 12, 2018
Letter #64
Well, another amazing week, come and gone.
Let's talk about it.
First off, lots of wheel chairs this week, like maybe six or seven. Maybe even eight, I don't know.
One of them, we were visiting a lady who uses a wheel chair and I had to use the bathroom. So I went, but the toilet seat looked like something from a horror movie. Luckily, there was a wheel chair toilet seat combination that I stuck over the porcelain throne.
Words of advice.
The higher the drop, the larger the splash
I won't send the selfie
Also, we're teaching a lady and we talked with her grandpa (who died this week after being shot twice #ThugLife). I asked him about a weird looking scar he had.
How did he put it.
I got stabbed, pulled the knife out and killed the other dude.
Okay gramps, peace
And lastly, we had an interesting "the Lord answers even the smallest prayer" experience.
At the insistence of an old lady, Elder Jesus borrowed her umbrella.
Before she let him walk away with it, she gave him the rundown.
"This is the best umbrella I've ever owned, I've had it for like ten years, never broken or given me any problems. I'm sure it won't give you any either."
Literally fifteen seconds after we left her house, the handle broke and the canopy flew off.
He's freaking out, "best she's ever owned" "ten years" "what will we do" "let's say a prayer."
So he let's it fly and we go on with our day. Ten hours later and he's still holding the broken umbrella. 9:00 at night, we're going to get on the bus and he steps on an umbrella under thrown under the bench.
Same make, same model, same year.
He grabs the unbroken handle and we take off.
Just a quick switch, the lady's umbrella will last another ten years.
When we ask, the Lord doesn't import with the size of the matter. If it is something good, the Lord wants what is best for us.
Also, ate javelina this week, and when I get home today, I've got two liters of milk straight from the cow to boil and drink.
Delicious
Until next week, with a longer letter, love
Elder Pumba
Let's talk about it.
First off, lots of wheel chairs this week, like maybe six or seven. Maybe even eight, I don't know.
One of them, we were visiting a lady who uses a wheel chair and I had to use the bathroom. So I went, but the toilet seat looked like something from a horror movie. Luckily, there was a wheel chair toilet seat combination that I stuck over the porcelain throne.
Words of advice.
The higher the drop, the larger the splash
I won't send the selfie
Also, we're teaching a lady and we talked with her grandpa (who died this week after being shot twice #ThugLife). I asked him about a weird looking scar he had.
How did he put it.
I got stabbed, pulled the knife out and killed the other dude.
Okay gramps, peace
And lastly, we had an interesting "the Lord answers even the smallest prayer" experience.
At the insistence of an old lady, Elder Jesus borrowed her umbrella.
Before she let him walk away with it, she gave him the rundown.
"This is the best umbrella I've ever owned, I've had it for like ten years, never broken or given me any problems. I'm sure it won't give you any either."
Literally fifteen seconds after we left her house, the handle broke and the canopy flew off.
He's freaking out, "best she's ever owned" "ten years" "what will we do" "let's say a prayer."
So he let's it fly and we go on with our day. Ten hours later and he's still holding the broken umbrella. 9:00 at night, we're going to get on the bus and he steps on an umbrella under thrown under the bench.
Same make, same model, same year.
He grabs the unbroken handle and we take off.
Just a quick switch, the lady's umbrella will last another ten years.
When we ask, the Lord doesn't import with the size of the matter. If it is something good, the Lord wants what is best for us.
Also, ate javelina this week, and when I get home today, I've got two liters of milk straight from the cow to boil and drink.
Delicious
Until next week, with a longer letter, love
Elder Pumba
Sunday, November 11, 2018
With All My Love
Dear Elder Schenewark,
Do you happen to have a come home day? I’m dreaming of it, whatever it is. I miss you. I’m grateful you’re where you’re supposed to be. I’m just playing the Mom card. Know of my love for you. Your Aunt Janel left a message, so sad that the package she mailed in May was returned as unclaimed. We’re so sad you aren’t able to receive our expressions of love through the mail.
Breyer had the yearly assignment of disguising a turkey, and unsurprisingly turned him into a mermaid, with seaweed disguising his feathers, and scales covering his body, including two appropriately placed shells. She's excited this week because in gymnastics she pulled off a back handspring on the trampoline. All by herself. Three times. That bumped her up to level three. She continues to charm. She spent yesterday morning with me at piano lessons, then at a Relief Society craft day, where she did all the free events for me under the watch eye of two friends. I left for Miller’s game and knew she’d be so much happier staying at the church. She loves your father. She reads book to him before bed time, always hugs and kisses him, and still reaches for his hand when walking. I saw this while watching them walk away from the baseball games.
Miller ended his long, wet baseball season playing two games Saturday morning in 45 degrees. He thinks it was a waste of money not because of the wet weather, but because his team was so unskilled. I disagree, and have mentioned why previously. But they did win a game on Tuesday, and entered the end of the season tournament Saturday, single elimination. They won the first game, against the same team, and lost the second. But Miller’s performance was outstanding. In one inning he struck out a batter; chased down a runner attempting to steal a base from second, tagging him out before he reached third; and because he had no hesitation, tagged out an attempt to steal home on a pitch that got by the catcher. That was one inning. In fact, now that I’m thinking, I believe he has made almost every out for his team. His last hit of the season was a hit to the fence itself, so close to going over. If he had hit the left field area it would have gone over the fence – which was his goal for this season. My bones were chilled for the rest of the day.
Miller was chosen as this month’s Shining Star from his class, and had no parent there to cheer him on. He had to drag his realtor sign proclaiming his award through his classes all day. And his school didn’t get the half day bonus. Dad was supposed to go but forgot that morning. Your siblings have gotten one every year since they’ve been at Oak Woods, including Sawyer. We’re so lucky.
Sawyer had a scrimmage Thursday night in a land far away. He got home after I had gotten to bed. He thought he was trying so hard he overheated, as he said he felt so hot. Then Friday morning he was freezing, admittedly the weather has gotten cold, but he actually had a fever. He came home mid-day due to a school funeral and crashed long enough to feel better and go to the high school football game. He’s crazy.
Cooper wants to have a Christmas party with kids in the Weatherford Stake, so I’m developing a list of to-do’s to make it happen. He worked on the fire pit this weekend, filling the bottom with the remaining fire bricks, and finishing the last wooden bench to go on top of the stone benches. He also cleaned up the site, getting rid of loose stones, string, stakes, buckets, etc. He has thoroughly enjoyed the stake dances, including the one last night, and was invited to a house to make use of the pool, hot tub, and foosball table. He does love his social engagements. He’s steadily working on his BYU application.
Your father is on week three of his healthy transformation. His third blood draw had amazing results – yet again down from the initial report that spurned him into activity. He’s so faithful in his diet, probably doesn’t get enough to eat, but is determined to draw the fat away from his liver and organs. He’s fitting into suits he’s never worn. He got a new desk from a co worker, and replaced the one I obtained teaching piano lessons. We’ll keep both. Breyer and I are excited to share one. I encouraged him to hang the old TV, which he did, and is used mostly for sporting events or western and military movies. We moved the smaller dining room table from the library, putting it over by the window next to the fireplace for games, etc. I love my home. I love my family. In all the world by nest is best.
If I were to tell you all that happened at work, which is so very interesting, you would shake your head, and know that our Prophet is a man of God called to lead and guide this church. The emphasis they've recently placed on the Sabbath Day is so obvious to me when I work that day and am besieged with calls. Let's say in a fifteen minute period I might have a disturbance between a father and son, an accident with multiple ejections, four other major accidents, an accident involving shots fired at the driver, a man having a seizure while on a bicycle, a mental subject pick up request and a female requesting an ambulance for her mother that turned into another disturbance. Fifty 911 calls involving multiple agencies as well. Makes for an incredibly busy few moments that are but an illustration from our little pocket of Dallas of how the world is in extreme chaos.
In The Blessing of Keeping the Sabbath Day Holy by H. Aldridge Gillespie he said, "The Lord commanded: “Go ye out from among the wicked. Save yourselves. Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord.” A critical element in observing this commandment is to “remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.” The Latter-day Saints must lead out in sanctifying this appointed day each week. Quoting Elder Bruce R. McConkie, "To this very day, “the matter of Sabbath observance remains … as one of the great tests which divides the righteous from the worldly and wicked.""
May you find joy in your Sabbath Day observance, and set the kind of example that our far away brothers and sisters in Brazil need.
Love,
Mom
Saturday, November 10, 2018
Wednesday, November 7, 2018
Tuesday, November 6, 2018
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