College Corresondent

New Beginnings

Choosing a favorite season is hard. I love them all, and for different reasons. One reason I love winter - besides the snow, and its cleansing effect, and the nostalgia for warm hearths, and lazy days inside - is because of the promise of spring. Even in the darkest part of winter, one always knows that sooner rather than later, spring will gloriously begin. It is a time of new beginnings.

For MLK day, I celebrated by having Kayla and one of my friends, Maddie, over for lunch. My loaf of bread tricked me, and while I won't say we suffered, I can't say we delighted in our grilled cheese sandwiches. But the salad was good.

Tuesday I accompanied Bishop, and my counselors went with the other members of the bishopric as we continued our visits. I love making them and talking and more, listening, to my apartment neighbors.

Wednesday evening Michaela, Greg, and Kayla came over for dinner. A few months ago, (as recorded) I had steak with tamarind sauce and blue cheese dressing. I recreated that for us, and it turned out AMAZING! I'll definitely be making this again. Given that I essentially crashed their wedding a few months ago, it was nice to actually become better acquainted with Greg and Michaela. They are delightful, and were extremely gracious. I'm impressed with their desire to make the world a  better place.

I had signed up for a creative writing class, and while I unfortunately had to drop that in order to graduate in April, a love of creative writing was rekindled, and I've read more novels this month than almost all of last year already.

Thursday I went and saw Senator Jeff Flake. He was visiting campus and gave a few speeches. I only attended the one for the College Republicans. After a brief outline of his career, he opened it up for Q+A. I was thoroughly impressed by both the Senator and his wife. I trust them. Perhaps the most interesting question dealt with the Kavanaugh hearing (asked by a somewhat bitter Dem for the record), and Senator Flake spoke quite openly about his thoughts throughout the ordeal and how he has never suffered such abuse from both parties before. I don't think either he or his family will miss much about D.C. Above all else, he seemed genuine in his words, and in his love for the USA.

Friday was our opening social for this semester, held at 7 Peaks Ice Arena. Some members of the ward heard I was starting a pizza company, and decided to give me a shot, ordering five pizzas from me, and five from Domino's. My boxes had arrived that day, and after a final practice run at 6 with Kimball, we were ready to go. Kimball had other commitments that night, and the other helper, Lawson, was in San Diego, so I was going solo. In 45 minutes, I made everything, the dough, cooked the meat, etc. and finished all five pizzas. And they turned out WAY better than I imagined. I put them in boxes and hustled out the door.

I am proud to say, that not only did they look better than Domino's pizza, the consensus was they tasted better, and my five were finished well before Domino's. With just a little prep time, I feel confident in producing 12 pizzas an hour, in our conventional oven (my poor roommates!!!). Ah, yes, the life of a pizza man. I do enjoy it. Check out our Facebook and Instagram page. Victory Pizza. (After my mission). My goal was simply to validate the idea spending the least amount of money possible, and I feel good about what happened, and will be moving forward with this. Plus I still have over 100 pizza boxes I don't want to keep forever.

Saturday I had planned on selling more, but that did not happen as our EQ activity went much longer than expected. But it was worth it. We went out near Utah Lake in Springville and shot guns. Lots of them. Mostly shotgun, 9 mm, and 22's, but Derik brought his 50 cal. The weather was beautiful, the ammo plenty, and a good time was had by all. That said, never, EVER again will I plan or participate in a shooting activity. Too risky in today's society. Thankfully everyone who came this time was well versed in guns and stability.

The Tronson's (Bro. Tronson is 2nd counselor) bid farewell to their son, who left to serve in the Philipines a few months ago. He unexpectedly had to return for a surgery, and decided to leave his suits. And Sis. Tronson kindly gifted them to me. I will pass one on to someone who needs it more, but I did keep one, and it fits perfect, and has been a blessing. Its a color I've always loved - light blue.

Tuesday's Devotional at the Marriott Center was given by Elder Corbridge, of the 70. Here is the URL to it. Please, please watch it. He succinctly and powerfully reminds what knowledge is most important in this life, and how to overcome doubts and find answers to questions.

https://speeches.byu.edu/talks/lawrence-corbridge_stand-for-ever/

On my mission I quoted innumerable times, Galatians 5:22. "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith."

However, as I was reading from Doctrine and Covenants 11:13, I was struck:

"Verily, verily I say unto you, I will impart unto you of my Spirit, which shall enlighten your mind, which shall fill our soul with joy."

The Spirit is all about bringing joy - real, lasting, honest to goodness, JOY. This life is about happiness, and thus this life is about receiving the Spirit, and learning how to keep and live with its influence constantly.

Nora N'Updates

Letter #75

Wild week, wild finish,

First, as of tomorrow, I will be transferred, but where and with who, I know not.

Second, a dam or something burst in Minas Gerais, town of Brumadinho. It's a mess, keep that city in your thoughts. Last I saw, 400+ missing, 40 confirmed dead.

Wednesday, ate some fried shark, avoided the mercury poisoning.

Thursday, caught some sort of virus/food poisoning thing,

Not a great experience, don't recommend it.

Friday, almost passed out on the floor, not the best day, laid there for like four hours before I could get up.

But, Saturday, we were good, dug a well during the morning, almost ten feet by myself. As a result, was a gifted a new suit, which I promptly realized did not fit me.

We had to postpone the three baptisms on Saturday because the water pressure gave out completely and we couldn't fill the font. Sad to have missed them, but onward and upward.

Love you all, until next week,

Elder Dead, Limp, Deadly Limp Fish

Picture presented by Brazilian members: "Farewell from Elder Schenewark in our house. I am Sister Jana and my mother is called Roseli. Your son is crazy life, but that's why we love him so much. Many thanks and congratulations for your son. We thank you for sending us this special missionary. Your son is very loved in our ward and for my family. Thank you"

With All My Love

Good morning Elder Schenewark,

Another week in the books, one week closer to having you home. Less than six months. That's definitely very doable. Your cousin Kevin arrived home this week, and I heard his father had spent the week in the hospital. Not sure what's going on, but I'm putting Uncle Ben on it. He's had similar issues.

Breyer became sick Monday evening, and I was concerned enough to take my first sick day in two years. I stayed home with her two days and Dad one, and her first day at school was Friday. She had the flu, and only has a bit of a cough left.

So Thursday afternoon, I invited Breyer, Miller and your father to visit the German Shepherd Rescue ranch located in Weatherford. There are multiple homes that foster the German Shepherds and, depending on which dog you want to visit, depends on the location you're sent to. Before you can visit you have to fill out their application, including references, and be approved. I put your grandmother down as a reference and she was called. She told them they're so poor but make sure the dog has the best food available. Very sweet. After speaking with her, they wanted me to take pictures of our yard, and asked about the type and height of the fence we have. When I told them, via email, that we live on an acre lot, and have no fence, and need to fence because of all the exercise, we were instantly approved sans photographs.

Thursday we drove to Weatherford where this handler had seventeen dogs in her garage. Crazy decimal level barking occurred when someone went into the garage. She would bring out one or two dogs at a time, explain the temperament and characteristics of each, and let us play with them. We all fell in love with the same dog. He was not spayed, so now has an appointment Tuesday, a mandatory condition before they can be purchased. Perhaps by our next letter, we'll be able to introduce you to a new member of the family. We had so much fun we didn't even think of pictures. Happy Birthday Miss B.

Ever since my vehicle was broken into five feet from the front door I've felt a little vulnerable. I am comforted by knowing dogs, whose sense of smell and hearing, does so much better knowing when something is amiss. I'm still filing reports with police departments, adding Crowley and another Hood County to the list. When you dispute a charge, and it's removed from your account, it's also removed from your statement. So as I was double checking, I continue to find new charges all associated with the spree on the 22nd of November.

I stopped by the car repair shop Thursday to see about the repair, as they've had the 4 Runner since January 2nd. It was out front being washed inside and out. I made arrangements to pick up the car the next day, and after turning in the rental car, for a total of $160, drove home with our car. Yeah.

I enjoyed driving it to my SEVEN piano lessons on Friday and Saturday. I love the view of Lake Granbury from the Smiths' house. Thought you might enjoy a revisit to your friend's house.

Cooper began his tennis season this week with a first place win, undefeated. He's the number one doubles player, and his partner is the number one singles player, both seniors. They'll have a great season together.

Sawyer had two games this week, Friday was at home. We didn't go to the Tuesday game but learned he was blatantly fouled, and after the T was called, was at the line alone for four shots at the line. He made them all. They won by a basket or two. This was either the 2nd or 42nd ranked basketball program in Texas. They're good. Friday's game they lost by one point, with Sawyer fouling out before the final four minutes of the game. They might have pulled off the win with him on the court.

Early the next morning he was up and at baseball tryouts. He can't practice until basketball is over. He came in third for the long throw from home base, but his timing when hitting is a bit off.

Miller had two recreational league games yesterday. He scored over twenty points in each game, one game with five three pointers. Dad joined me at the second game, and we kept shaking our heads at each other. He's a great player. He'll be beginning baseball soon as well. He is teaching his first quorum lesson today, and after asking a few questions, and getting a bit of help with the church website, is ready to go.

Your cousin Evan found out this week he was accepted into the SMU Law School. He'd become the closest relative, next to Luke's school, if he decides to go there. He has his hat in a few other rings.

Call of the week? Probably to the lady that called about a horse head being found on her front lawn. She stated she raises Clydesdale horses for Budweiser, and the Mexican cartel wants both her contract and property.  This morning we had a semi tanker with gas on fire on the freeway.

Well, that's about it. The family is just getting home from a youth fireside. Even Breyer went. Tanner called to say he gave Hunter's pizza an 8/10. I'll let Hunter write more about his adventures. He's actually calling in right now. He's never dull.

Please stay safe. Know of our love for you.

Mom

Undefeated Doubles Champions

 

Nora N'Update

Pirate Basketball

9th Grade Granbury Basketball Team

Sunshine and Swinging

College Correspondent

The Wondrous Gift of Mortality

Last semester lasted the full 10 rounds, split decision, but I’ve won. That was a tough one though – my last night before break was no night at all, as I pulled an all-nighter finishing a couple of projects, and then taking three finals in the morning. Nevertheless, knowing that I was heading home to see family and relax for a couple weeks, saw me through more easily than I foresaw.

My time at BYU is drawing to a close. In fact, this will be my last semester. After talking with Mom last night, (Jan. 12) I thought about graduation, and decided that this was the right thing to do. Its funny that if you had asked me 6 months ago, I was leaning towards graduating April 2020, then it slowly shifted to December 2019, then perhaps August 2019, and now its April. Repeat: I’ll graduate in April. I have not felt rushed at all, and as this is only my 6th semester, wasn’t worried about taking another year, but my opinion as to what I need to do has changed. I’ve had a great run, and absolutely loved my time here, but now I need to move on. I think my education has reached the level I hoped and I’d be spinning my wheels more than anything else, if I stayed. And having made that decision, my remaining time in Provo, not knowing what the future might hold, feels extra important to me.

I ate out for the first time this year. Over the break, two of my roommates moved out, so we planned a meet-up on Saturday January 5th. Derik is getting married, and I know he’d be leaving over the break, having sold his contract, but Jeremiah’s exit was a surprise. He decided to move north, to American Fork, to be closer to his work. We hit up Kneaders, and took advantage of their $6 unlimited french toast. This week (Jan. 8-14) I’ve tried a few new foods. I made fudge for the first time, as well as croutons, and then returned for a sophomore iteration, changing the recipes slightly. In addition, I’ve enjoyed some acai, and have vowed to never buy salad dressing again, making homemade poppy seed, Caeser (two thumbs down first try) and balsamic. Someone better stop me before I buy a sewing machine. Or spinning wheel.

Not much to report on with dates. I went out on Friday with Macey. Originally we had planned to go bowling but after my friends had to bail, and unwilling to contemplate trying to get to know someone while we would inevitably be on our feet taking our turns bowling, we went to the classic Soap Factory. Thankfully, the bill came out lower than every other time I’ve went, and we had a good time there. I suppose also of interest is my re-downloading the mutual app. Not much to report there yet, but it should set up a couple dates in the near future.

The first few Sundays of the year have been AMAZING. While I was ecstatic for two hour church, I didn’t foresee a noticeable change in church, just one hour less of attendance. However, Sundays feel completely different. Sacrament meetings have been fantastic, with fast Sunday especially remarkable as perhaps 20 members got up, bore their testimonies with no grandstanding, irrelevant story telling, etc., only pure testimony. And the second hour has been just as good, with lots of participation from a vibrant audience, as even I am not checking my watch every five minutes, but feel engaged with the lesson. For the first time in my life, church feels short, and leaves me wanting more.

Saturday was another ISI conference. This one was held at BYU, and we welcomed students from UVU, Utah State, U of U, and BYU-Idaho. The theme focused on  religious belief and secular learning, and while worthwhile, I confess, I am tiring of conferences. And I am already on the books for a few more. No more applying though.

I am currently unemployed. I left Canopy, left Northwestern Mutual, did actually put some hours in with event staff, but given I’ve worked five hours for them in two months, can’t really count that as a job. I even turned over the majority of responsibility to another student with the MaeserLaser. Uh-oh. What could I possible be cooking up? Not much. I’m almost consigned to getting a real job after graduation, for at least the rest of 2019 (almost).

I’ve made my return to chess club, in preparation for one more shot at the intercollegiate tourney. In two weeks, I’m 8-1. And I think the level of competition has gone down significantly.

My love of painting continues to grow.

And I spent hours yesterday with TannMarie tickling Nora, eating dinner, and playing games. Finally, for the lunar eclipse, we clambered onto their roof. I brought my telescope and we contemplated the wonders of the infinite. As Immanuel Kant said,

Two things fill the mind with ever new and increasing awe, the more often and steadily we reflect upon them: the starry heavens above me, and the moral law within me.

I suppose the one project that I have devoted some considerable time to is the formation of a pizza company. Its called Victory Pizza, as some mission friends are helping me do it, and so our motto could be, “Conquer Your Hunger.” Pans are in, boxes on their way, recipe finalized (or nearly) and our first day to sell is this Saturday. During one recipe test, I made a guacamole like paste, and used that instead of a tomato based sauce. The avocado one was amazing, and we’ll be expanding on that concept if our normal pizza sells.

Reading Moroni 1:4, “Wherefore, I write a few more things, contrary to that which I had supposed; for I had supposed not to have written any more; but I write a few more things, that perhaps they may be of worth unto my brethren..”

This hit home for me – and reinforced the idea that I can do more. The Book of Moroni is one of my favorite books of scripture, and we have it because Moroni went above and beyond what he expected to do. When we go above and beyond what we think or expect, our efforts will likewise bless the lives of many, even if we are not present to witness those effects.

Letter #74

Sorry to get on so late, but
HAPPY BRITHDAY to me,

I celebrated by.....

-Sleeping in until 6:30
-Studying in Mathew and Lucas about Somebody Else's birthday
-Taking two wasps nests out of a recent convert's rafters with my bare hands and vineger and a plastic bag
-Marking a hospital visit
-Having a great lesson with some investigators

And, as today was that hospital visit, I unfortunately don't have time to talk about the other things, but I will try, next week, sorry.

Love,

Elder One Year Older and Waiting on the Wiser

PS. Celebrated by eating some bananas that were born on the same day as I

PPS. I went to find out that I have a pulled tendon and possibly a bone fragment in my leg, how exciting. But, it's turning out fine.

I'm still in Jd. Leonor, I've been here for like six months and I'll probably be leaving next Tuesday, but I'll update you guys next week.

Also, it looks like a member here has decided to send me a present, but something about shipping prices means it's coming to you guys (perks of being in the ward for six months). I'm pretty sure it's a Red Sox jersey.  I used the Red Six winning the World Series in my first talk here and about how it was always my dream to have a Red Sox jersey so everyone could see who my team is. And how we should have the same pride in being on the Lord's team and wanting to show everyone, but this member in particular has kept talking about it for 4 months, so, look out.

Also, started drinking a little bit of apple vineger when I wake up, you may want to try it mixed with a little water.

With All My Love

Good morning, Elder Schenewark,

How are you doing? You're officially an official adult having reached 21 years of age. I thought throughout the day what kind of cake, or pie, I would have made for you, or perhaps what you have asked me to make. I haven't really come up with a definitive answer though. I am definitely ready to celebrate a birthday with you though. Here's a throw back to your favorite birthday present, Miss Breyer five years ago.

Miller had two basketball games yesterday. It's been a long minute since I've seen him play. He scored almost half the points in both of his games. He has a pretty three point short, a jump shot Sawyer says he didn't develop as early. Sawyer came to the game with me and got hooked into running the scoreboard, but his comment after the game was that Miller is definitely a natural athlete. He's so very quick and smooth. The man in front of us, arriving for the next game, commented, "Now there's a ball player." Dad took him to his prime game in Cleburne, as I had SEVEN piano lessons!

Sawyer had two games this week as well. On Tuesday I left work and drove to Everman, stopping at Crowley Police on the way. It was to update the department about my auto burglary, as my credit card bill had a bunch of charges I never knew about. All the investigators are still working on their cases, but so far have been unable to get a good reading on the license plate. Hopefully this Walmart will have the new license plate readers.

I never got to the game. I got there just in time to pick him up from a one point loss. Friday's game was at home against Burleson, another loss by a basket. He scored almost half of their 45 points. The coach is becoming a problem for me. He called a full time out, and stood behind the bench at the water cooler, just drinking water. The boys were embarrassed. They began the season scoring 70 points a game, and through the weeks their points have dropped, their heads hang low, and their wins are no longer.

Your sister is still enjoying gymnastics. She did ask last night if she could play basketball again, except she wasn't stopping gymnastics. I about swallowed my gum. She says she practices in gym. We'll see. She was invited to a sleepover birthday party. She talked about the party for days before she went, and still after. We picked her up about 10 p.m., after Sawyer's game, that now begin at 8 p.m. Let's just say there were balloons on the ceiling, sparkles on the floor, and eight girls laying on pink air mattresses inside their wooden frame canvas covered tents. What a party! And the party hat? Unicorn ears and horn headbands. No wonder she couldn't stop talking about it. She doesn't even remember stopping to eat a cup cake.

Cooper is a senior. Senioritis hasn't necessary kicked in, it's just that he's never home. He is back to playing tennis everyday after school. Then he might pop into work to work on a knife or two. He is Mr. Social in the Weatherford stake, and is always invited to events with youth. He went on the monthly Laurel-Priest dinner last night, and was invited to a home by the stake president. He's in demand around the house for his fixing skills, but he's never home. He's still working on another airplane at school. He was scheduled for flying lessons but they were cancelled due to the weather. He also developed on line and created a prototype for a ping pong table that folds up. The teacher is willing to have a ping pong table in the classroom but is short on space. Cooper has developed one that folds up.

Yesterday and today are in the 20's with a frigid arctic wind. We made sure our hot cocoa jar and wood pile were full. This week I've finally finished putting away Christmas decorations, getting all the beds changed, and the home situated. We love visitors, absolutely, but it's calming to be put back together.


My favorite 911 call of the week?

911 - What's the location of your emergency?

In a museum. I'm a special agent with the United States Illumani and I'm stuck in an air conditioning duct.

Illumin-what?

True story.

We love you. Finish strong. Your family loves you. We're thinking of eating some kind of yummy dessert, after singing happy birthday, of course.

Love,

Mom


Porter,

Happy Happy Birthday. What did you do for your birthday? Did you get recognized from the Mission President. I have seen that the mission president's wife post pictures to Facebook of zone conferences and interviews or when they out and about.  I go through all the pictures, hoping to find one of you. Have not found one recently. What town/zone are you in? What is your address so that we can loo it up on Google Earth?

We had a few days of nice warmth and I got out to walk. We have now had a few days of very cold, but hopefully it will be pretty good to walk.

On the nice days I have gone out to play frisbee with Miller. It is good to play catch, also have really liked the Kanjam game from Tanner and AnneMarie. We will introduce the game to others in the area and I think it will become very popular.

I also did a little skateboarding with Cooper's long board. I need to get back into condition with balance and strength. I would like to do some surfing, even if it is on the lake, and thought it would be good practice to use the skateboard. I took it slow, now wipe outs but am looking to be smooth, agile, and natural on the board.

I will have alot of work today, even though it is a day off. Your Brothers and sister are also home today.

Sawyer had a very good basketball game (from a point view) he had 23 points. His Feshmen coach has mess with the team (in teams of rotating, and play, and constant yelling at the players.) that team was a machine and it is now longer operating as such.

Have a good day, be safe and know we love you dearly.

Love,
Dad

Nora N'Updates

Letter #73

Quickly, because as always, we're short on time.

We had a nice service project on Saturday morning, six and a half hours of putting insulation in an aluminum roof. In 115 degree weather. What fun.

The new church program continues to amaze, continues to bring and enlighten the mind and spirit with it's guided study.

We were saved from a torrent of rain by a kindly family.

I don't actually have much else, sorry.

Love, Elder Sweatshop

With All My Love

Dear Elder Schenewark,

Good morning! I have recently returned from the land of your Grandparents. They extend their greetings and love to you. They prayed for you. They do love you. They asked about you, and actually had me find your mailing address for them.

I flew out after work Wednesday, driving straight to the DFW airport. The day at work at been so busy. We generated over 400 calls for service. I was mentally fatigued. I made it to the DFW Airport without incident, which might be a first for me. Had no problem with the remote parking lot or shuttle bus. I tried really hard to find a close parking lot, as I'm driving a rental car that I don't recognize as my own. 

A really cute picture of your younger Breyer - WV

I was dropped off at the wrong portion of the terminal, and didn't know enough to question the incompetent driver. I found pee all over the toilet in my bathroom stall. I accused the Chik fil A employee of not providing the correct change. I plowed through the toilet paper roll I brought to blow my nose. I was pretty miserable climbing onto the airplane. The bone jarring turbulence didn't help, nor missing my exits off the MassPike. By the time I crawled into bed at 2 a.m., 1 a.m. for me, I had been up almost 24 hours - less than 3 hours short. I was still awake when Grampy came out a short time later, so we had an early morning or very late evening greeting that was wonderful.

I coughed myself awake an hour later, and then again. By 3:45 I was in the shower hoping the hot steam would ease the chills from the allergy name of Cedar Fever, and by 4:00 was greeting your grandmother. I finally fell asleep, and slept until 9:30. It was a rough night. I won't mention being sick again except to say having no allergens in the cold northeast air flipped the allergy so quickly my sinuses have been draining ever since. I'm hoping being back in Texas won't cause another allergic reaction.

We spent the day mostly in our pajamas. We might have put on some clothes in the afternoon but it was only so we'd be ready for Aunt Rachael, who brought games and cards over to play. Imagine that her favorite game is mine? Rummikub. I taught them all Golf. Good times. We ordered from Olive Garden for dinner, which was yum.

I was up early Friday morning to drive far north into New Hampshire to see Aunt Becky and your cousin Mackenzie at the Dartmouth Children's Hospital in Lebanon. What a beautiful drive. The mountains had a fresh coat of snow, the tree branches bowed from the weight, and the sky clear, crisp and blue. I had to drive all the way to the last parking lot, last row to get the last space. 

The lady behind me was maneuvering her vehicle onto a snowbank. After plowing back through the multiple parking lots on foot, crossing through knee deep snow between the lots, I reached the lobby huffing and puffing from the 18 degrees. Your cousin is doing well and progressing with the respiratory therapy. It was fun to sit with that sweet, sassy girl and catch up with my sister. I stayed a couple of hours, and made my way back home by 3:30.

 I inhaled dinner. I had decided ahead of time to not eat in the hospital. One of the things I had wanted to do for a long time was watch Uncle Aaron in action as a high school or college basketball referee. He happened to have a local girls' game at Marlborough High to officiate so I drove over for half of the game. He's quick, he's decisive, he's confident. The only negative comments in the stands were for his partner's calls.  

I'll close the New England adventures with this thought. I was speaking with your Aunt Becky while waiting for the remote bus at the airport parking lot. She and I were speaking of something but the topic of getting a father's blessing from Grampy came up. I told her I always forget, and never have a pressing need to remind me. So one of my goals was to do this while I was home. Late the night before I left, 11:30 p.m., he told me he'd like to give me a blessing. So so sweet. I told him of my conversation, and how grateful I am that he offered, as I had again forgotten. Dad's are the best.

Sweet photo of Uncle Rich and Aunt Kelly I found on line

We had a good friend take Breyer to gymnastics while I was gone.

Your father got to watch Sawyer in his basketball game against Arlington Seguin Friday. They were the only team to win their game, and it was at home.

He also took Miller to his prime game last night. Hopefully he got some good clips for me to watch. I opted to stay home for a minute. I had to do three piano lessons shortly after debarking from the plane. Thankfully the other four cancelled - due to the flu no less. Dad did a wonderful job keeping up with dishes, food and wash, but I needed to make a bigger dent before the new week begins in full motion.

Cooper and Sawyer went to a youth stake dance, but was the only one to go in character for the movie themed event - Hans Solo with an awesome gun he created.

The only other thing I remember pre trip was that we worked on Come Follow Me for Family Home Evening. We'll tackle some more this week.

I do believe that's the goods on the week past. As for the week to come - be strong. We love your letters, and check multiple times on Monday waiting. Know of our love for you -

Mom

Letter #72

Loved the new program and learning about how we are responsible for our own learning.

This week, following our success last week and in the last month, we were starting from zero again.

BUT

The Lord provides and at church we had a 2019 record nine people in church (get it Denver South mish) and were able to begin teaching more people than in any other week this year.

Neidewagner returned from Ceará on Saturday and will hopefully, along with his brother Alex, receive the priesthood next Sunday.

And I don't remember much else, New Years amr....

Until next week, love you, lemme see if I can find a picture to share.

Love, Elder 2019

With All My Love

Dear Elder Schenewark,

Good morning. Much has happened since we last spoke. Wasn't it wonderful? We're definitely on the downhill slide, and I'm just thrilled. I do miss you so.

I might have forgotten to mention Hunter brought his sour dough starter he's been  nurturing and using all semester on the airplane. How he got the jar of starter through security without being stopped is a mystery. Whether or not it is considered a liquid shouldn't matter. It was over 3 oz. We all enjoyed his efforts though, as he made his bread several times. It was not as strong as other sourdoughs we've eaten which I enjoyed.

Your crazy Orton clan

Monday the Bachs flew back to Boston. They always arrive in fine fashion, bringing with them warmth, love and eagerness to be a part of our crazy lives, and leave a large void when they depart. The coin books are a bit heavier, the stockings could barely hang, and there was no room in the fridge.

As soon as we were able, two cars departed for Tyler. Crazy times in the piney forest area of Texas were had as we played new games, tried out Murder in the Dark in the mansion, continued the epic ping pong battle between your aunt and Hunter, and held the first of many to come Kan Jam tournaments.

TannMarie gifted us with this plastic slotted can times two, including frisbee, played in teams of two. After a few practice rounds Cooper became the hot commodity, but Sawyer and Miller pulled out the win. Your Dad and I battled from the L bracket, but couldn't quite make it to the top. Chairs lined up on the side of the driveway with lots of jeering and cheering complete the picture.

Due to impending icy weather, we all had to leave, dragging our feet until 8'ish Tuesday evening. By Wednesday morning the cars were all iced over, the power out, and the dishwasher and washing machine sitting with full loads. We enjoyed the heat from the fireplace, hot cocoa, and games. Six hours later the power came back on, and we enjoyed our three year tradition running of Panda Express Chinese food, and a case of sparkly juice. That also might need to be a tradition - everyone enjoying their own bottle.

Thursday Tanner drove down to Houston to visit a few receptions commonly held during Christmas break in an attempt to wine'n dine law students. He was glad he went. The law offices frequently have offices in Dallas as well. He had a fellow student fly in from Georgia, and drive back to Granbury with him. He slept on a cot for a bit, as they got home at almost 2 a.m., and then everybody went to the airport together.

Nora was a joy to have in the home. Christmas was magical with her there, she delighted all with her speaking ability, and was fun to play with. We pulled out the old baby toys, and had plenty to go around. We borrowed a high chair for meal times, which worked well, and a port a crib for when we went to Tyler. She slept well in your crib - the same crib her father slept in. Unfortunately her last day here she started to get sick and by night time we could tell it was croup. AnneMarie was up and outside a few times during the night to help with the cough. By morning you could tell she was feeling better, but I haven't heard how the airplane ride home was or what, if any, was the doctor prognosis.

Miller and Breyer on the new backyard tree swing

Three days this week Cooper was told at the last minute he needed to sit in 8 hours of class review in preparation for taking his pilot exam. Wednesday, Thursday and Friday he missed most of our activities, then Saturday was up early and riding to Fort Worth for the exam. Nine students attempted the written exam and two passed - one of whom was your brother. He had to pay $165, which will be refunded, since he passed. Just wow. What a great program the high school has developed, along with all the retired volunteers. Truly there couldn't have been a better high school for this child of mine. He's absolutely thrived here.

Sawyer had a couple of practices here and there the last two weeks, with a game Friday afternoon. He was called up with his friend Nathan to play in the JV game. They didn't get a lot of playing time, and the JV team lost, but you could tell he was a bit nervous. He got right back into it for the 9th grade game, and was the player that carried the team. This Crowley team (varsity) is ranked 42nd in the state of Texas, so their program is decent.They lost the game by a basket after an overtime extension. Sawyer was at the line a LOT and made all but two, he hustled and bustled all over the court, and was recognized by his coach as being the only player that played like he wanted to win.

Aunt Janel and Luke came down on Friday night to watch Sawyer play, hang out, go on power walks, and visit the fossil park in Mineral Wells. While I was teaching piano lessons Saturday morning they were digging in the mud for fossils. Aunt Janel found a shark tooth, and more.

That's the week in a nutshell, of which your father has been cracking a lot over the holiday break. He purchased a mixed bag of raw nuts, bought a nut cracker, and we've left them on the table to enjoy. It is a fond memory of us both from our childhood, cracking and eating nuts during the holidays.

Tonight Breyer is sick. I had my haircut yesterday and the beautician brought her four kids and their germs. Grr. The kids have one more day of vacation, tomorrow, and then they'll be back to school the rest of the week. Life's routines will begin again, and the time until we're together will speedily pass. Make the best of your time that you have left. Know of our love for you. Be good, and stay safe.

Love,

Mom

Nora N'Updates