Monday, October 12, 2015
Sunday, October 11, 2015
With All Our Love
What a weekend! Your brother is married. Your grandfather decided on the way to the airport his health was not conducive to traveling, and he wisely chose to preserve his strength by staying home. The sealer, when contacted by AnneMarie's parents, is a friend of the family, and did a wonderful job. He very thoughtfully mentioned your grandfather, and how sad he felt for having to be the one to replace him. Up until that moment I was fine but I became very tender, and realized then how much I missed my parents. He had a very similar background to your grandfather, also being a stake president, mission president, temple president and patriarch. He did pronounce our name correctly ;-) Your father's adopted mother Young flew in from Utah, and sat by me in the grandmother chair. Having her husband pass away July made it a poignant moment for her and Jarrod. She was in the right place at the right time for her and us.
Your California aunt was instrumental in helping with your younger siblings, transporting here and there, getting them dressed and beautified, and chasing your busy sister. But in the midst of her and my instructions, Cooper got left at the hotel. Unbelievable. He was very content in the "cousin" room, watching the telly all by himself, and thought he should leave at noon, versus be at the temple by noon. The Bach mobile made the 45 minute each way trek to retrieve the lost brother, and we kept the photographer busy with request after request, not involving our family, until they could get back. Definitely a Home Alone moment. But he'll be in the photos.
Most enjoyable were your sister's comments. "A wedding isn't very fun because we're only taking pictures." "AnneMarie picked a beautiful castle for her wedding." "Look, Mom! Tanner got his princess. He's kissing her."
After the required snaps and shots, we had a quick lunch, courtesy of Tanner's new in-laws, went back to the hotel for 90 minutes to rest, and then spent the evening at the Tanner home for the reception. The unexpected entertainment of the evening? Tanner diving under AnneMarie's dress for the garter, and retrieving it with his teeth. Just wait for those photos ;-) He used his usual flair when he danced, when he posed for a kiss, when he cut the cake (she smashed it ;-) Your cousins provided funny running commentary the entire weekend. Derek, Greg and Naomi represented the CT family, Sara the MA family, Janeen was our CA connection, and Uncle Ben came to be with me and represent the UT family. I kicked Porter and Cooper into the cousin room, Sawyer and Miller into the Bach suite, and kept Janeen and Ben for our room.
My feet ache, my eyes sting, I have a sore muscle under my left shoulder blade. My veggie consumption is practically nonexistent. My sleep quotient has almost been five hours a night. But it's been wonderful being around family and friends, meeting Tanner's new extended family and friends, and feel of the love they all have for his new Pace family. "Your son is so lucky" was often mentioned to us as I know would have been mentioned to them if they had been on our home turf.
Know how much we missed Tanner's wing man. But we would not want you here. You're where you should be doing what you should be doing. Matt Stone is thrilled you're in his stomping grounds, and will be a weekly food date while you're in Tempe.
We're excited to hear what you've been doing, and where you've been assigned.
Much Love,
Mom
P.S. We had smear on our camera, so our photos are fuzzy and cloudy, but the professional ones will be here soon!
Saturday, October 10, 2015
The "Rehearsal" Dinner
The only thing we were rehearsing were a few decorating skills, and getting to know a wonderful, new family.
Friday, October 9, 2015
With All Our Love
Dear Elder Schenewark and brother
Don't ever hide anything from your mother Hunter! I knew you were sick when you called, and could have used the extra time between your phone call and the call from the mission president's wife, so work on the insurance card issue. I'm thankful the mission doctor was there, and could diagnose your fever, double ear infection with ease. Dad will be scanning the cards, and emailing them to Arizona for future but hopefully unnecessary use.
You had another cousin come into the world on the 4th. Uncle Zach's Alara Eden arrived at the end of a long day, almost 8 pounds, 21", and just beautiful!
I also found a rare photo online this week of your cousin Meg winning a soccer game that sent her team into the play offs. Such fun to see!
And look what we found on line: A picture of you hanging out on the couch. I'm sure we'll be hearing more about your first gathering!
We left early Thursday morning for Flagstaff in a rented mini-van. Your father was very excited with the radio as it had its own Elvis channel. He knew you would be appreciative of this fact. Because we brought a lot of Tanner's boxes with us, to pass off, we were so full with suitcases in the aisles and under some feet. But these crowded conditions were only for the way out.
Breyer's favorite mantra was "I'm a good holder!" She let everybody know in the gas station bathrooms how long she had held off needing to go to the bathroom. Pretty funny. I was nauseated most of the day, but a little pain is worth the gain of getting to Vegas. I don't know why I don't travel well, but it was mostly on Texas roads that weren't interstates.
The New Mexico and Arizona desert is beautiful. In the bright blue sunshine, with the red rocks, the green scrub, and the yellow grasses. There were lots of trains that blended into the autumnal landscape with their rusty cars, and when the sun was setting on the flat face of the red rocks, it was like a heavenly theater.
We woke up in the morning to find out that four people were shot at the Northern Arizona University campus in Flagstaff, AZ, early Friday morning, an hour after we had checked in. According to the Northern Arizona University Police Department, the four victims included one dead, and three wounded. The shooter is in custody. Campus was in lock down through the morning.
A little surreal, especially after writing you about shootings last week. You be careful! We dearly love you. All of you. Excited to hear from you! I'll write more through the wedding weekend. We wish dearly you were here.
Love,
Mom
Don't ever hide anything from your mother Hunter! I knew you were sick when you called, and could have used the extra time between your phone call and the call from the mission president's wife, so work on the insurance card issue. I'm thankful the mission doctor was there, and could diagnose your fever, double ear infection with ease. Dad will be scanning the cards, and emailing them to Arizona for future but hopefully unnecessary use.
You had another cousin come into the world on the 4th. Uncle Zach's Alara Eden arrived at the end of a long day, almost 8 pounds, 21", and just beautiful!
I also found a rare photo online this week of your cousin Meg winning a soccer game that sent her team into the play offs. Such fun to see!
And your two other cousins, both on their varsity soccer team as well.
And look what we found on line: A picture of you hanging out on the couch. I'm sure we'll be hearing more about your first gathering!
We left early Thursday morning for Flagstaff in a rented mini-van. Your father was very excited with the radio as it had its own Elvis channel. He knew you would be appreciative of this fact. Because we brought a lot of Tanner's boxes with us, to pass off, we were so full with suitcases in the aisles and under some feet. But these crowded conditions were only for the way out.
Breyer's favorite mantra was "I'm a good holder!" She let everybody know in the gas station bathrooms how long she had held off needing to go to the bathroom. Pretty funny. I was nauseated most of the day, but a little pain is worth the gain of getting to Vegas. I don't know why I don't travel well, but it was mostly on Texas roads that weren't interstates.
The New Mexico and Arizona desert is beautiful. In the bright blue sunshine, with the red rocks, the green scrub, and the yellow grasses. There were lots of trains that blended into the autumnal landscape with their rusty cars, and when the sun was setting on the flat face of the red rocks, it was like a heavenly theater.
We woke up in the morning to find out that four people were shot at the Northern Arizona University campus in Flagstaff, AZ, early Friday morning, an hour after we had checked in. According to the Northern Arizona University Police Department, the four victims included one dead, and three wounded. The shooter is in custody. Campus was in lock down through the morning.
A little surreal, especially after writing you about shootings last week. You be careful! We dearly love you. All of you. Excited to hear from you! I'll write more through the wedding weekend. We wish dearly you were here.
Love,
Mom
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
He's in Good Hands
Sister Toone and I wanted to let you know that your son, Elder Schenewark, has arrived safely at the Mission Office. Attached you will find two pictures that we thought you might enjoy. One is your missionary with Sister Toone and me, and the other is the group of missionaries with whom he arrived in the Arizona Tempe Mission.
We are so pleased to have Elder Schenewark serving in the Arizona Tempe Mission. Monday is Preparation Day at which time he will let you know his mailing address, the zone and district to which he is assigned, and the name of his trainer.
As we met with Elder Schenewark we stressed the principles of obedience, hard work and worthiness. This mission holds great potential for each missionary assigned. The members are strong and love these great Elders and Sisters. You can be assured they, and we, will do all possible to watch over your son. It is a very special responsibility we feel toward our missionaries. We want to see them enjoy a happy and successful mission.
Thank you for raising a son who has a desire to serve the Lord.
Sincerely yours,
President James L. Toone
JLT:sea
Dear Family,
Well I am here and making it. My health hasn't cooperated to the extent I wish but oh well. I do really wish I could have talked more, but that just wasn't going to happen. I did get my medicine finally
this evening so I'm hoping when I wake up I'll be feeling great and ready to go. The mission president and wife are great. I already have so much to say, but I'll wait until Monday, which will be my preparation day from now on. I just wanted to let you all know I'm doing okay and love you. And this is the mission address:
1871 East del Rio Drive
Tempe AZ 85282
The weather is perfect right now, Tempe is beautiful and tomorrow we will be going to the Mesa temple, which has been one of my favorite architecturally for years, so yeah can't complain. And, surprise!!! I'll be speaking Spanish here!!!! So I'll definitely be working hard on that here. Okay, that's it for now.
Love,
Elder Schenewark
Elder Schenewark
Tuesday, October 6, 2015
Letter #7
Dear Family and Friends,
I think this entire summer I have made it very clear that I did not want to stay in the United States longer than I had to. I have felt ready and excited to go to Brazil since I received my call in April. Well, no more. There is no place I would rather be going to tomorrow than Tempe, Arizona. It has been a cool experience as my testimony that Jesus Christ knows and cares about each of us has grown exponentially. Frankly, there is not much of a reason for my not getting my visa. Except that Christ has a reason. I know that there is a reason I am heading down there.
One of my questions, was who gave me my call to Tempe, and I received an email saying that it came from one of the 12 apostles. Also, I found out that I will stay at least 6 weeks, as they keep you there for a full transfer. I can't wait to get there tomorrow and go to work. I feel prepared and am ready to go! Also, I know I mentioned a little last week, but I have loved every single day in the MTC. I have grown so much, and really have been able to help others as well. Someone yesterday told me they were so thankful that I didn't get my visa, and that I had been the answer to their prayers. And they haven't been the first, so it's been truly an unforgettable experience.
Last Tuesday, Elder Claudio R.M. Costa came to speak at the Devotional. He is the head of the Brazil area. It was my favorite devotional by far. Absolutely fantastic. He talked about his conversion at age 28, and some wonderful experiences as a mission president in Brazil. Also, fun fact, I haven't confirmed this, but my teacher said that Elder Costa and Elder Soares aka The Dynamic Duo of Brazil married two sisters.
After the devotional, the branch president President Dansie held my exit interview. He is a great man. One of the first things he told me, was that he knew I must have a great mother. You know it.
I loved Conference!! My favorite talk was Elder Russell M. Nelsons. If you don't remember it, go back and watch it again. Besides the heart wrenching story about the failed heart surgeries on the 3 siblings, I think his talk will be the benchmark for future decisions in my life if you know what I'm talking about. But, no worries or thoughts about that now. I do wish that someone would give a talk like that about men. They probably have, so if anybody knows any similarly incredible ones, let me know. There is always room for improvement. That was also my favorite session.
It was so sad to see President Monson struggle, and I wish I could have been there like Aaron, who held up Moses' arms. And of course, hearing the testimonies of the three new apostles. I had hoped that someone from Brazil would be named, but during the press conference after they were named, I received an undeniable witness that they have been called of God, not man, They are His apostles. I am so grateful to have a prophet and apostles to help us today.
After the last session on Sunday, I went immediately to another devotional for the missionaries leaving this week. I'll just say I'm ready to go!!! And then dinner, and then our Sunday night devotional. The a Capella group Vocal Point, came and sang lots of songs, and in between shared their testimonies. That was the first time I'd heard any of their songs, and I love live music so it was good.
Well, I think that's about it. I am looking forward to calling tomorrow!!! Unfortunately, after holding out for 5.5 weeks, I succumbed yesterday. I had a bit of a fever, chills, aches, and I am feeling better today, just have a bit of a cough. I do hate traveling sick. Hopefully I can kick it pretty quick.
And now I have to go pack, shouldn't take long at all, but I do need to do it. We (there are four other elders and four other sisters going) leave tomorrow at 3:35 am from the MTC, so it's going to be a short sleep and a long day. Side note, Tempe missionaries get Ipads and cars so I'm excited for that. The Ipad has enough material, such as everything you could think of in Portuguese in the gospel library app so it will help me keep up my language. Which is superb. I can't take credit. Both my teachers have been fantastic and two weeks of one on one personalized teaching does do amazing things. Tchau!!!!
And have fun in Vegas!!! That's super exciting!!
Love,
Elder Schenewark
I think this entire summer I have made it very clear that I did not want to stay in the United States longer than I had to. I have felt ready and excited to go to Brazil since I received my call in April. Well, no more. There is no place I would rather be going to tomorrow than Tempe, Arizona. It has been a cool experience as my testimony that Jesus Christ knows and cares about each of us has grown exponentially. Frankly, there is not much of a reason for my not getting my visa. Except that Christ has a reason. I know that there is a reason I am heading down there.
One of my questions, was who gave me my call to Tempe, and I received an email saying that it came from one of the 12 apostles. Also, I found out that I will stay at least 6 weeks, as they keep you there for a full transfer. I can't wait to get there tomorrow and go to work. I feel prepared and am ready to go! Also, I know I mentioned a little last week, but I have loved every single day in the MTC. I have grown so much, and really have been able to help others as well. Someone yesterday told me they were so thankful that I didn't get my visa, and that I had been the answer to their prayers. And they haven't been the first, so it's been truly an unforgettable experience.
Last Tuesday, Elder Claudio R.M. Costa came to speak at the Devotional. He is the head of the Brazil area. It was my favorite devotional by far. Absolutely fantastic. He talked about his conversion at age 28, and some wonderful experiences as a mission president in Brazil. Also, fun fact, I haven't confirmed this, but my teacher said that Elder Costa and Elder Soares aka The Dynamic Duo of Brazil married two sisters.
After the devotional, the branch president President Dansie held my exit interview. He is a great man. One of the first things he told me, was that he knew I must have a great mother. You know it.
I loved Conference!! My favorite talk was Elder Russell M. Nelsons. If you don't remember it, go back and watch it again. Besides the heart wrenching story about the failed heart surgeries on the 3 siblings, I think his talk will be the benchmark for future decisions in my life if you know what I'm talking about. But, no worries or thoughts about that now. I do wish that someone would give a talk like that about men. They probably have, so if anybody knows any similarly incredible ones, let me know. There is always room for improvement. That was also my favorite session.
It was so sad to see President Monson struggle, and I wish I could have been there like Aaron, who held up Moses' arms. And of course, hearing the testimonies of the three new apostles. I had hoped that someone from Brazil would be named, but during the press conference after they were named, I received an undeniable witness that they have been called of God, not man, They are His apostles. I am so grateful to have a prophet and apostles to help us today.
(Elder Leon, "Thank you for been friend of my son all the blessings be upon you and your family.")
Well, I think that's about it. I am looking forward to calling tomorrow!!! Unfortunately, after holding out for 5.5 weeks, I succumbed yesterday. I had a bit of a fever, chills, aches, and I am feeling better today, just have a bit of a cough. I do hate traveling sick. Hopefully I can kick it pretty quick.
And now I have to go pack, shouldn't take long at all, but I do need to do it. We (there are four other elders and four other sisters going) leave tomorrow at 3:35 am from the MTC, so it's going to be a short sleep and a long day. Side note, Tempe missionaries get Ipads and cars so I'm excited for that. The Ipad has enough material, such as everything you could think of in Portuguese in the gospel library app so it will help me keep up my language. Which is superb. I can't take credit. Both my teachers have been fantastic and two weeks of one on one personalized teaching does do amazing things. Tchau!!!!
(One of my teachers Irmao (Brother) Barlow. He served in Mozambique.
My other teacher was Irmao Crestani. He served in southern Brazil.)
Love,
Elder Schenewark
Monday, October 5, 2015
With All Our Love
Dear Boys,
Well, Hunter, this is it. You're leaving for Tempe, AZ and soon thereafter, Brazil. Your training will be complete, and you're off to work. Have fun! On the other hand, your brother is embarking on a different journey this week, and will be married before the next Sabbath day. And we couldn't be prouder of you both. You two are the big news in our lives this week, and we wouldn't want it any other way.
There was another shooting in Oregon this week, Hunter. Did you hear about this? The latest shooting took place at Umpqua Community College in the state of Oregon, where nine people were killed and seven more wounded by a single gunman. Since December 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, there have been at least 986 mass shootings, with shooters killing at least 1,234 people and wounding 3,565 more. 264 mass shootings that have occurred in America this year.
I mention this as I've thought all week about why your mission is so important, Hunter. People need to know how to find peace, and where peace can be found. That's your job for the next two years. And Tempe is right in the middle of those awful statistics and your backyard.
What else caught my attention? I knew you'd find it interesting that GOP Rep. Jason Chaffetz of Utah says he's running to be House speaker.
Because of your father, the fact that Tulane's Aaron Golub got to make history when he took the field in the fourth quarter Saturday, caught my eye. He's a walk-on long snapper and is legally blind. He snapped on Tulane's final extra point of the Green Wave's 45-17 win over Central Florida, and is the first legally blind player to play in an NCAA college football game.
And just in from Charleston, SC, persistent torrential rainfall caused dangerous flooding in South Carolina's main cities and prompted hundreds of rescues through shoulder-deep waters across the southeastern U.S. state due to a weather system that dropped more than 18 inches (45 cm) of rain in one part of South Carolina., and closed seventy miles of freeway.
Thursday my cub scouts and I picked up trash at the hosting church for our service project. The property was very well kept so there wasn't much to collect, but a sock and a #10 can were the finds of the night.
Sawyer pitched again yesterday, did well, but couldn't keep up with their bats. Another loss, but he's getting good. Miller played third and short, no pitching. He's so fast once he gets on base. He stole his way home very quickly. He had a great out at third base, catching a wildly thrown ball and tagging the runner just as he slid too far off the base.Cooper's tennis matches were both losses, but he didn't feel bad as not win was found on the varsity or j.v. teams. Aledo is a large school. Dad went to Porter's away game. Driving an hour each way is a sacrifice, but Porter comes home feeling loved. His basket of goodies from his grid iron girl doesn't hurt either ;-)
Speaking of Porter, he had some ACT results come in this week. He got a 36 in English (surprise!), a 30 in math (no calculator) and a 33 in science, overall 33. He'll be taking it again in two weeks with a calculator. He was told at school that a 33 composite is the highest score they've had in fifteen years. Wait until he uses a calculator ;-)
Porter made homemade pretzels last Sunday, which really could have been bagels. They were yummy! He is getting good with bread dough. He boiled it to make them! Today he made a loaf of bread, pizza dough, pizzas, and then apple pie. He's currently working on the crust portion. And, he's getting slightly better about cleaning up.
Tomorrow all the kids are home from school. I don't know why, and really don't care. I do know we'll be packing for the trip to Las Vegas. They're very excited. Breyer's dress arrived in the mail and she didn't like it. It wasn't pink. It's cream. I think it's growing on her. I hope. I'll be on the phone first thing in the morning confirming the caterers, car, hotel rooms, etc.
Did you love General Conference? We did. We saw all sessions, had to catch the Saturday afternoon session this morning, early, because of yesterday's baseball games. Right? That's the one we really wanted to see live! I love, love, love Elder Holland and he didn't disappoint. Loved President Nelson's The influence of women in the church will be magnified in an unprecedented way, and Elder Foster's Today's parents must be engaged in intentional parenting. Sister Marriott, even with the death of her daughter before she could back from her mission in Brazil, Have faith, it will work out. was fabulous. And Elder Bednar's concluding talk was amazing. "When you cannot do what you've always done, then you do what matters most. Are we going to "ponderize?" We're pondering on that ;-) The music was wonderful, loved the solos.
We're thankful we can hear from you while you're waiting at the airport. Call back, call often, use all of that card before you stop!
Love, love, love,
Mom
Well, Hunter, this is it. You're leaving for Tempe, AZ and soon thereafter, Brazil. Your training will be complete, and you're off to work. Have fun! On the other hand, your brother is embarking on a different journey this week, and will be married before the next Sabbath day. And we couldn't be prouder of you both. You two are the big news in our lives this week, and we wouldn't want it any other way.
There was another shooting in Oregon this week, Hunter. Did you hear about this? The latest shooting took place at Umpqua Community College in the state of Oregon, where nine people were killed and seven more wounded by a single gunman. Since December 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, there have been at least 986 mass shootings, with shooters killing at least 1,234 people and wounding 3,565 more. 264 mass shootings that have occurred in America this year.
I mention this as I've thought all week about why your mission is so important, Hunter. People need to know how to find peace, and where peace can be found. That's your job for the next two years. And Tempe is right in the middle of those awful statistics and your backyard.
What else caught my attention? I knew you'd find it interesting that GOP Rep. Jason Chaffetz of Utah says he's running to be House speaker.
Because of your father, the fact that Tulane's Aaron Golub got to make history when he took the field in the fourth quarter Saturday, caught my eye. He's a walk-on long snapper and is legally blind. He snapped on Tulane's final extra point of the Green Wave's 45-17 win over Central Florida, and is the first legally blind player to play in an NCAA college football game.
And just in from Charleston, SC, persistent torrential rainfall caused dangerous flooding in South Carolina's main cities and prompted hundreds of rescues through shoulder-deep waters across the southeastern U.S. state due to a weather system that dropped more than 18 inches (45 cm) of rain in one part of South Carolina., and closed seventy miles of freeway.
Thursday my cub scouts and I picked up trash at the hosting church for our service project. The property was very well kept so there wasn't much to collect, but a sock and a #10 can were the finds of the night.
Sawyer pitched again yesterday, did well, but couldn't keep up with their bats. Another loss, but he's getting good. Miller played third and short, no pitching. He's so fast once he gets on base. He stole his way home very quickly. He had a great out at third base, catching a wildly thrown ball and tagging the runner just as he slid too far off the base.Cooper's tennis matches were both losses, but he didn't feel bad as not win was found on the varsity or j.v. teams. Aledo is a large school. Dad went to Porter's away game. Driving an hour each way is a sacrifice, but Porter comes home feeling loved. His basket of goodies from his grid iron girl doesn't hurt either ;-)
Speaking of Porter, he had some ACT results come in this week. He got a 36 in English (surprise!), a 30 in math (no calculator) and a 33 in science, overall 33. He'll be taking it again in two weeks with a calculator. He was told at school that a 33 composite is the highest score they've had in fifteen years. Wait until he uses a calculator ;-)
Porter made homemade pretzels last Sunday, which really could have been bagels. They were yummy! He is getting good with bread dough. He boiled it to make them! Today he made a loaf of bread, pizza dough, pizzas, and then apple pie. He's currently working on the crust portion. And, he's getting slightly better about cleaning up.
Tomorrow all the kids are home from school. I don't know why, and really don't care. I do know we'll be packing for the trip to Las Vegas. They're very excited. Breyer's dress arrived in the mail and she didn't like it. It wasn't pink. It's cream. I think it's growing on her. I hope. I'll be on the phone first thing in the morning confirming the caterers, car, hotel rooms, etc.
Did you love General Conference? We did. We saw all sessions, had to catch the Saturday afternoon session this morning, early, because of yesterday's baseball games. Right? That's the one we really wanted to see live! I love, love, love Elder Holland and he didn't disappoint. Loved President Nelson's The influence of women in the church will be magnified in an unprecedented way, and Elder Foster's Today's parents must be engaged in intentional parenting. Sister Marriott, even with the death of her daughter before she could back from her mission in Brazil, Have faith, it will work out. was fabulous. And Elder Bednar's concluding talk was amazing. "When you cannot do what you've always done, then you do what matters most. Are we going to "ponderize?" We're pondering on that ;-) The music was wonderful, loved the solos.
Love, love, love,
Mom
Friday, October 2, 2015
A Puffing and Huffing Princess
She was determined to run all the way around.
All by herself.
In flower-adorned sandals.
And she did.
With frequent pauses.
Thursday, October 1, 2015
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