DAY AFTER HALLOWEEN- NO SCHOOL- LAGOON!!!
Friday could not have come sooner! I mean, we literally waited til the last possible day to go to Lagoon! Our Get Out Passes that we bought solely for the Lagoon passes didn't work on the Saturday we planned. I am just glad we made it, though. It was a bit rough at first, trying to decide which rides to go on- Jack, Molly and Sadie weren't feeling very adventurous, so we tried a few things. Noah, Erika, Jack and I went on the airplanes- the ones that go upsidedown- I was proud of Jack for trying this one out, but he didn't love it. There was a little bit of a struggle with his insulin and then he was also freezing, so we will cut him some slack, but overall, he wasn't thrilled to be there. Molly and Sadie eventually came around and by the end of the night even went on the Ferris Wheel with Nate, Noah and Erika. We loved that Kelly and Devan joined us after an hour or so. They brought some new energy to the party. We ended up going on lots of rides and trying to eat some food before Jack maxxed out. He really was just too cold. He should have worn a winter coat. Not sure if it was the low blood sugar he was experiencing or just an off day, but I ended up taking him home. We had some corn dogs when we got home. Everyone else stayed and it sounded like they had a fun time without us. I love that Molly braved Bombora and they both just kept on going til it was time for me to pick them up! Super fun. Had to grab some hot chocolate on the way home. 11-1-24
EMAIL FROM BRAD- Life is good
Okkkk my dear friends whats up?? This week Satan just kept trying to throw brick walls at us but we managed to keep grinding the whole week. I seriously love this work more than anything. I heard next year they might be splitting the mission so we shall see what happens
Okkkk my dear friends whats up?? This week Satan just kept trying to throw brick walls at us but we managed to keep grinding the whole week. I seriously love this work more than anything. I heard next year they might be splitting the mission so we shall see what happens
Monday we had Pday. We introduced the Latinos to all our backyard games and campout games. Mostly just young womens camp games because young mens we just throw rocks and destroy nature. Here there aint much of that nature stuff hahahahaha.
Tuesday: we had the baptism of our buddy Lian! He's a super cool kid and he brought his entire super catholic family! His older brother is a recent convert but other than that they're all very proud devout catholics sorta. Now we just need to help him keep asisting and have a responsibility in the church.
Wednesday: We were in interviews and they were sooo hype. President is so cool and it was probably the best interviews Ive had with him. We talked for probably 30 minutes about our run to the temple and then he said some crazy stuff to me that just stressed me out, and then we talked more about what we should do with the zones because we're gonna join them all together again and make them big zones. After that there were some German kids playing basketball and so obviously I had to contact them. They were super dope and we have another lesson on Wednesday. All I'm saying is that a baptism of 3 germans in a little Peruvian pueblo would be tje coolest thing. It's amazing how no matter where you are you can find the Lord's servants. The only problem is they don't know a whole ton of English or Spanish Hahahahah.
Thursday Friday Saturday: worked my butt off and everything canceled. We had some rough moments crying for 2 minutes and then getting up and running to the next lesson. It gets pretty defeating sometimes and that's when you have to really search for the Lords hand. When you gotta dig deap. I have 3 songs that I like to sing super loud when stuff gets hard because the power of your words are insane. We got
#1. Onward Christian Soldiers
#2. Put your shoulder to the Wheel
#3. My favorite by far, Grandma Odey classic, Dig a Little Deeper
Sunday: we had a lot of friends show up to church!! We finally are getting back into getting a lot of people attending church. It was a hard start but we are starting to see so many fruits of our labors
we finally had the baptism of Danica. It was supposed to be a baptism for the 2 of them but the mom needs to figure some stuff out. But the primary presidency came in so clutch and planned everything for us which was pretty cool. We also had a huge miracle, a family of 3 came to church and asked how they can become members. Miracles like thag only happen in Peru but they're just such cool miracles
we finally had the baptism of Danica. It was supposed to be a baptism for the 2 of them but the mom needs to figure some stuff out. But the primary presidency came in so clutch and planned everything for us which was pretty cool. We also had a huge miracle, a family of 3 came to church and asked how they can become members. Miracles like thag only happen in Peru but they're just such cool miraclesSpiritual thought: The weeks where I have worked the hardest where Satan fights the hardest. Its pretty weird how he does that. I decided it's a good way to help my zone because Satan is busy fighting Elder Maynes and forgets to fight the other misionaries in the zone
jk not sure he works like that. But still... Anyways guys just know that the best is to come when the hardest is now. Don't take your foot off the gas. Just go all the way because the best is yet to come. Jesus is on the way.
jk not sure he works like that. But still... Anyways guys just know that the best is to come when the hardest is now. Don't take your foot off the gas. Just go all the way because the best is yet to come. Jesus is on the way. I'll send fotos later
EMAIL FROM LUKE- Temple Trip
Good morning everyone, I hope you guys all had an awesome Halloween. This week was pretty good. Here's some stuff that happened this week:
A recent convert named David got his endowment this week and he invited us to go with him. David is awesome. He loves the church so much and he was so excited to go through the temple. I am so glad we got to go with him because the temple is outside of our mission so I really won't be able to go very often while I'm here. We also forgot to make an appointment so it was super lucky that they had enough spots for us. I also got to see my mtc companion again because his comp was the one who baptized David and they got to come with us.
We had exchanges this week and I went with elder Cox. Elder cox has only been put for a transfer, but he's suuuuch a good missionary already. He's a Spanish missionary and he's proof that the gift of tongues is for real cuz he's already really fluent as far as I could tell. Exchanges with the Spanish elders are always fun cuz I have no clue what anyone is saying most of the time. I got to go to English class, because the Spanish elders teach it and I helped this guy named Alfredo pronounce a bunch of words and he helped me pronounce them in spanish. It was pretty fun.
We had some good lessons this week with our friends. Unfortunately none of them showed up to church this week. Our friend Michael is progressing pretty good but he's been slowing down recently for some reason. So remember Michael in your prayers plzzzz
Spiritual thought:
A super awesome quote from the talk Kingdoms of glory by Dallin H. Oaks
Go read the rest of his talk it's super good.
"The Apostle Paul taught that the Lord’s teachings and commandments were given that we may all attain “the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.” That process requires far more than acquiring knowledge. It is not even enough to be convinced of the gospel; we must act so that we are converted by it. In contrast to other preaching, which teaches us to know something, the gospel of Jesus Christ challenges us to become something."
Super awesome quote right there. We can't just learn the gospel, we have to act on what we learn. It's not enough just to know who Christ is and what he did, we have to become like him by following his example. Becoming a disciple of Jesus Christ requires hard work and effort. It is a life long persuit. If we want to become like the savior, we have to start now. Not tomorrow, not any other day, but right now. If we are willing to give ourselves to God and submit to His will, He will bless us and magnify our efforts and we will become who He needs us to become.
Hope yall have an awesome week!
THE 2024 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION- RECEIVING CLERK
I had the opportunity to work at the polling location this year. Not sure if it was a good opportunity or not. Still deciding. We had to be there bright and early- well actually it was still very dark!- at 6:00 at the Kaysville Library. We were in charge of setting up our stations with the iPads and then got to work setting up the booths. I needed a little refresher of how to do the stuff, it had been a couple weeks since training, but I was able to catch on quickly. It was a pretty long day. I was surprised at how many people came through. I had brought some food for snacking, but I didn't really get as much time to eat it as I thought I would. I was sitting with some people who made me feel weird about my pbj and any other carbs I chose to eat- kinda random- I was able to make some friends in Danni and Sean? maybe? I can't remember his name! HAHA! Anyway. It was an interesting experience. We were not allowed to leave the building until it was completely over and the provisional ballots were counted which ended up being around 9:00. This was great since we had had some problems with the printers and at one point had a line long enough that if we hadn't gotten a new wifi for the printer would have lasted well into the night- probably midnight! So we were happy to be going home when we were. It was so nice of Nate to bring me some food and then my mom was so thoughtful and brought some cookies to share with everyone as well. Super cool of her. I didn't hate this for some reason, but I don't know if I would do it again. I am really thankful Nate was able to stay home a bit in the morning to get the kids off to school and then pick them all up too. He really made it all possible. In the end we hopefully have a four year break from the Left wing nonsense- Trump won! We'll see if he's actually put in in January. 11-5-24
I had the opportunity to work at the polling location this year. Not sure if it was a good opportunity or not. Still deciding. We had to be there bright and early- well actually it was still very dark!- at 6:00 at the Kaysville Library. We were in charge of setting up our stations with the iPads and then got to work setting up the booths. I needed a little refresher of how to do the stuff, it had been a couple weeks since training, but I was able to catch on quickly. It was a pretty long day. I was surprised at how many people came through. I had brought some food for snacking, but I didn't really get as much time to eat it as I thought I would. I was sitting with some people who made me feel weird about my pbj and any other carbs I chose to eat- kinda random- I was able to make some friends in Danni and Sean? maybe? I can't remember his name! HAHA! Anyway. It was an interesting experience. We were not allowed to leave the building until it was completely over and the provisional ballots were counted which ended up being around 9:00. This was great since we had had some problems with the printers and at one point had a line long enough that if we hadn't gotten a new wifi for the printer would have lasted well into the night- probably midnight! So we were happy to be going home when we were. It was so nice of Nate to bring me some food and then my mom was so thoughtful and brought some cookies to share with everyone as well. Super cool of her. I didn't hate this for some reason, but I don't know if I would do it again. I am really thankful Nate was able to stay home a bit in the morning to get the kids off to school and then pick them all up too. He really made it all possible. In the end we hopefully have a four year break from the Left wing nonsense- Trump won! We'll see if he's actually put in in January. 11-5-24
JACK'S FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENT
We had really looked forward to this appointment, wondering how it was going to go. Not sure it lived up to the hype, but it was good. I had gotten Jack's numbers in a really good spot and for some reason PA Valerie wanted to change it a little which seemed to throw us all off again- kind of annoying- but I moved things back. They did bring out the pumps for us to look at which was nice- we had been wanting the Omnipod, but seeing how big it is and knowing it is going to be something huge stuck to Jack, we chose not to do that one. He had settled on the T-slim at this appointment- we liked the touch screen. It was good to think we could get going with that. They sent in a social worker who I think might have gotten more out of Jack if he hadn't been bored out of his mind for the past hour. Kind of a long appointment for him. But I think it was mostly good. We're going to get this. 11-6-24
We had really looked forward to this appointment, wondering how it was going to go. Not sure it lived up to the hype, but it was good. I had gotten Jack's numbers in a really good spot and for some reason PA Valerie wanted to change it a little which seemed to throw us all off again- kind of annoying- but I moved things back. They did bring out the pumps for us to look at which was nice- we had been wanting the Omnipod, but seeing how big it is and knowing it is going to be something huge stuck to Jack, we chose not to do that one. He had settled on the T-slim at this appointment- we liked the touch screen. It was good to think we could get going with that. They sent in a social worker who I think might have gotten more out of Jack if he hadn't been bored out of his mind for the past hour. Kind of a long appointment for him. But I think it was mostly good. We're going to get this. 11-6-24
CHILI AND PIE NIGHT
This was a big hit. I think we got all the pie night and all the chili night people all at once. Kinda fun. I got to talk with Amber about pumps and then sat by Emily and talked missionaries and Type 1 for the rest of the night. It was a good one. If only I'd made time to make the oreo pie- I was really wanting some of that. Nate's chili turned out amazing though. I was happy I picked it. 11-6-24
This was a big hit. I think we got all the pie night and all the chili night people all at once. Kinda fun. I got to talk with Amber about pumps and then sat by Emily and talked missionaries and Type 1 for the rest of the night. It was a good one. If only I'd made time to make the oreo pie- I was really wanting some of that. Nate's chili turned out amazing though. I was happy I picked it. 11-6-24
ERIKA'S FAMILY PARTY
Saturday was the big day. We decided on chair soccer and gaga ball at the church before coming back home for some Panda Express and Ice Cream cake! This was a really fun idea! Charity and Hunter and Kelly and Devan made it down even. I loved that my dad came and then the Taylors. My mom and Simon came as well and spectated. It was a lot of fun. I only wish Jack had been in better spirits the whole time. Panda was kind of dumb and almost brought the old food too soon, but we fixed that. It was a good time. I think Erika liked it. She was good and spoiled with gifts and love after. Good times. 11-8-24
Saturday was the big day. We decided on chair soccer and gaga ball at the church before coming back home for some Panda Express and Ice Cream cake! This was a really fun idea! Charity and Hunter and Kelly and Devan made it down even. I loved that my dad came and then the Taylors. My mom and Simon came as well and spectated. It was a lot of fun. I only wish Jack had been in better spirits the whole time. Panda was kind of dumb and almost brought the old food too soon, but we fixed that. It was a good time. I think Erika liked it. She was good and spoiled with gifts and love after. Good times. 11-8-24
ERIKA'S 15th BIRTHDAY!
Kelly, Molly, Sadie and I made the most incredible sign :). Then I spoiled her with crepes for breakfast. We were able to give her one gift before church- a white hoodie- which she loved. Then went to church. Erika had signed up to teach combined YW on her birthday which I just think is so cool. Her lesson went well. It was a pretty chill afternoon. We gave her a few more gifts. Then it was time for the family meeting/dinner and pie night at Grandma Ruthie's. This ended up being a lot of fun. I was glad Devan and Kelly and Charity and Hunter made it. Grandma Ruthie gave birthday gift bags to the boyfriends and girlfriends there so Devan got one. He said a beautiful testimony about the flosser being like Christ. I was proud of him for not being too nervous! We got to congratulate Austin and Aubrey- they are engaged finally :). We ate yummy sandwiches and then lots of pie after. We brought two Oreo pies, not sure why I made two, but one was completely gone and the other didn't get touched. Maybe an experiment because the one that was eaten had whole oreos on top and the other one just crumbs.... hmmm. We scurried out of there when Brad called (an hour earlier for us, with Daylight savings). But I think it was a fun way to spend Erika's birthday. She's 15!! Mind blown. 11-9-24
Kelly, Molly, Sadie and I made the most incredible sign :). Then I spoiled her with crepes for breakfast. We were able to give her one gift before church- a white hoodie- which she loved. Then went to church. Erika had signed up to teach combined YW on her birthday which I just think is so cool. Her lesson went well. It was a pretty chill afternoon. We gave her a few more gifts. Then it was time for the family meeting/dinner and pie night at Grandma Ruthie's. This ended up being a lot of fun. I was glad Devan and Kelly and Charity and Hunter made it. Grandma Ruthie gave birthday gift bags to the boyfriends and girlfriends there so Devan got one. He said a beautiful testimony about the flosser being like Christ. I was proud of him for not being too nervous! We got to congratulate Austin and Aubrey- they are engaged finally :). We ate yummy sandwiches and then lots of pie after. We brought two Oreo pies, not sure why I made two, but one was completely gone and the other didn't get touched. Maybe an experiment because the one that was eaten had whole oreos on top and the other one just crumbs.... hmmm. We scurried out of there when Brad called (an hour earlier for us, with Daylight savings). But I think it was a fun way to spend Erika's birthday. She's 15!! Mind blown. 11-9-24
PUMP ORDERED!
I was able to do the "packet" within minutes of the doctor appointment (they made this sound like it was going to take weeks to accomplish) so I was able to pass my quiz and get signed up to order by Monday! Pretty exciting. We were able to talk to a sales rep about the T-slim and the new Mobi and actually changed our minds and settled on the Mobi. It's lighter was the main reason. But being able to control it with his phone will probably be nice too. We're just anxious to get going with any pump, so this was a happy day! 11-10-24
I was able to do the "packet" within minutes of the doctor appointment (they made this sound like it was going to take weeks to accomplish) so I was able to pass my quiz and get signed up to order by Monday! Pretty exciting. We were able to talk to a sales rep about the T-slim and the new Mobi and actually changed our minds and settled on the Mobi. It's lighter was the main reason. But being able to control it with his phone will probably be nice too. We're just anxious to get going with any pump, so this was a happy day! 11-10-24
EMAIL FROM LUKE-
What is up everyone, I hope yall had an awesome week. This week was good, I'm getting more used to the work and I'm learning to love it more and more each day.
ERIKA LEARNERS PERMIT
We tried to get Erika's learners on Tuesday. It was kind of a bummer, but she got the two hard tests for her first two times. She did not pass. We went back on Wednesday and she did great! Got her permit and we stopped at the church on the way home to drive int he parking lot for a few minutes. This is exciting! 11-12-24
PHONE CALL WITH LUKE
Monday was p day and we went to bucees. Bucees is basically a huge gas station and they have a bunch of then around here.
Tuesday was one of the most stressful days of the mission so far, but it ended up being a super good day. We did exchanges and I ended up running my area with another greenie. We were also on bikes the whole day and lemme tell ya, my area is not meant to be a biking area. We had a couple lessons that day and most of them fell through and all of our plans were just not working out. We unintentionally got into a bash with someone while knocking doors, basically the first half of the day was roughhhh. We rode by this family out front and we decided to go back and talk to them and they were super nice. They were really interested in the church and the Book of Mormon, so hopefully we can go back and teach them some more. The rest of the evening was good. We visited a member family right as they were doing their "nightly routine", so they invited us in and we sung some primary songs with them hahaha.
Wednesday and thursday were just normal days, nothing special
Friday we knocked into this non member and she immediately shook our hands and invited us inside and totally caught us off gaurd. We weren't allowed to go into her house cuz she and her kids were the only ones home, but we're meeting with her again this week and she seemed super excited.
Saturday we were in a sketchy trailer park and we found a lady who had 7 kids, they were super nice and gave us a metal pole in case any dogs came at us, I think we're gonna try to visit them again and get them to church. We also gave a blessing to an inactive member, she is having a toughhh time rn, we were trying to explain why church was important but I don't think she quite understood. Hopefully we can get her to church next week.
Sunday was stake conference and our mission president and his wife came and gave some fire talks about members and missionary work. So all of you guys should go study preach my gospel.
Spiritual thought:
Mosia 3:19
For the natural man is an enemy to God, and has been from the fall of Adam, and will be, forever and ever, unless he yields to the enticings of the Holy Spirit, and putteth off the natural man and becometh a saint through the atonement of Christ the Lord, and becometh as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him, even as a child doth submit to his father
Sorry no pics this week, I'll try to take more pictures. Love yall
COSTA VIDA NIGHT
This has become a fun tradition. Looked a little differently this year- we didn't get over there until 7:00ish. Mr. Flynn had come by on the Friday before and bought some of Nate's meat, so we new he was back in New York so he wasn't there either. We did see a few people we know and we got to watch Jeffrey while Brian ordered while we ate, but it was a fun time. Molly didnt't get to come with us because she was off having fun at Classic Fun Center with the Activity days group. I am grateful for my kids and that I enjoy being with them so much. It's also been so long since we ate at Costa Vida!! 11-11-24
ERIKA LEARNERS PERMIT
We tried to get Erika's learners on Tuesday. It was kind of a bummer, but she got the two hard tests for her first two times. She did not pass. We went back on Wednesday and she did great! Got her permit and we stopped at the church on the way home to drive int he parking lot for a few minutes. This is exciting! 11-12-24
BAD NEWS
While Erika and I were visiting Karen Richardson I got a call from Kelly. She called again after I sent it to voicemail so I decided I needed to pick up. She was in tears. They had canceled her cycle again. This is such a disappointment because things were looking so good. We found out later through an expensive phone call with her doctor that she is stumped. She doesn't know what else to try. She is going to send Kelly's info to the other doctors in the group to see if they have any ideas, but as of right now, there's not much more they can do. I still have hope. I still think that Kelly could have something change for the better. We shall see. And keep praying. 11-12-24
While Erika and I were visiting Karen Richardson I got a call from Kelly. She called again after I sent it to voicemail so I decided I needed to pick up. She was in tears. They had canceled her cycle again. This is such a disappointment because things were looking so good. We found out later through an expensive phone call with her doctor that she is stumped. She doesn't know what else to try. She is going to send Kelly's info to the other doctors in the group to see if they have any ideas, but as of right now, there's not much more they can do. I still have hope. I still think that Kelly could have something change for the better. We shall see. And keep praying. 11-12-24
IMPROMPTU BASKETBALL GAME ERIKA
Erika had the rare opportunity of filling in for her friend Eva on her comp team for their game Thursday night. This was really exciting and Erika was so brave to just go and play on some team she barely new a few of the girls. I was really so proud of her. It was out at the Weber fairgrounds and unfortunately we got stuck behind a train! We had given ourselves plenty of time to get there and then ate up all the extra time with trying to get around the train. It felt like a miracle when we were able to follow a truck that turned around quickly at the train and led us all the way around toward the west. I was so grateful! We got there right as the game started which was a bummer, but also a miracle. Erika played awesome! This was the first game they've won all season and then the coach begged her to play on the team for the rest of the season. I think this could be a fun thing for Erika. 11-14-24
Erika had the rare opportunity of filling in for her friend Eva on her comp team for their game Thursday night. This was really exciting and Erika was so brave to just go and play on some team she barely new a few of the girls. I was really so proud of her. It was out at the Weber fairgrounds and unfortunately we got stuck behind a train! We had given ourselves plenty of time to get there and then ate up all the extra time with trying to get around the train. It felt like a miracle when we were able to follow a truck that turned around quickly at the train and led us all the way around toward the west. I was so grateful! We got there right as the game started which was a bummer, but also a miracle. Erika played awesome! This was the first game they've won all season and then the coach begged her to play on the team for the rest of the season. I think this could be a fun thing for Erika. 11-14-24
PRIMARY MEETING
There was this cool meeting with the Primary General board for all the Primary leaders in the area. I was really excited for this, but had to miss the first half hour for Erika's game. Luckily, I did make it over to the church and caught the last hour of the meeting!! This meeting was amazing! I loved it! I love that we are now going to focus on letting the Primary kids lead and have more purpose at church. I took a bunch of notes:
There was this cool meeting with the Primary General board for all the Primary leaders in the area. I was really excited for this, but had to miss the first half hour for Erika's game. Luckily, I did make it over to the church and caught the last hour of the meeting!! This meeting was amazing! I loved it! I love that we are now going to focus on letting the Primary kids lead and have more purpose at church. I took a bunch of notes:
- Have teacher council meetings- discussing needs for the kids.
- Covenant path lessons at home
- Activity days should be having a day camp every year and activities 2 times per month
- There's going to be an annual service day activity in 2025
- Have children say prayers in Sacrament meeting
- Invite kids to serve and give talks in Sacrament meeting
- Have children say prayers in Sacrament meeting
- Invite kids to serve and give talks in Sacrament meeting
- Having kids serve in singing and class times
- Have kids conduct primary
- Have kids conduct primary
- Kids can play the prelude music
- Kids can help teach a song in Primary
- Have the kids help plan and carry out activities
- Give the kids a purpose
- Be in tune to the spirit to ask the kids who you least expect
- Focus on growth, not perfection
- Take names to ward council with ideas for mentorship in achieving goals
- Activity days having kids help plan
- Helping th ekids belong and feel purpose in the Church
- Help them experience Christ
- Do all this at home!!!
It was an amazing meeting. Nobody in my presidency came except Brooke and she hasn't said anything, so I'm not sure we will implement much, but I can do what I can at home. 11-14-24
MOLLY SHOW OF GRATITUDE
I got to be Molly's plus one at her show of gratitude. She performed at the nearby Whisper Cove Assisted Living place just up on Main. She got to represent Dominoes in their gratitude for toys! Kinda fun. She really loved her costume and her dance. I was so proud of her. She was having so much fun with her friends while we waited for her turn as well. Kinda cute. I looked for Terri Moran and couldn't see her. 11-15-24
I got to be Molly's plus one at her show of gratitude. She performed at the nearby Whisper Cove Assisted Living place just up on Main. She got to represent Dominoes in their gratitude for toys! Kinda fun. She really loved her costume and her dance. I was so proud of her. She was having so much fun with her friends while we waited for her turn as well. Kinda cute. I looked for Terri Moran and couldn't see her. 11-15-24
DATE NIGHT
We squeezed in a little date after Molly's show to go see The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Super cute movie! I liked it! 11-15-24
We squeezed in a little date after Molly's show to go see The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Super cute movie! I liked it! 11-15-24
BARF
After we got home Molly actually lost her cookies. Kinda sad. Nate stayed up with her and let me go to bed. Which was good cuz I was starting to feel pretty crappy. 11-15-24
After we got home Molly actually lost her cookies. Kinda sad. Nate stayed up with her and let me go to bed. Which was good cuz I was starting to feel pretty crappy. 11-15-24
LUNCH WITH COURTNEY
We FINALLY made it to lunch! I didn't realize it was going to be a lunch out thing, I thought we were going to her house, but at the last minute found out otherwise. Which was okay. We went to the Vessel Kitchen which was pretty good. I can't say it was my favorite, but it was good. I like Aubergine better. But it was so fun talking with Courtney. We are living such different lives, but still manage to find things to talk about. I feel so bad about her situation with her dad. This will take some time. I hope she is able to enjoy Thanksgiving, and that we can hang out before Christmas! With the families together. That's our plan. 11-16-24
We FINALLY made it to lunch! I didn't realize it was going to be a lunch out thing, I thought we were going to her house, but at the last minute found out otherwise. Which was okay. We went to the Vessel Kitchen which was pretty good. I can't say it was my favorite, but it was good. I like Aubergine better. But it was so fun talking with Courtney. We are living such different lives, but still manage to find things to talk about. I feel so bad about her situation with her dad. This will take some time. I hope she is able to enjoy Thanksgiving, and that we can hang out before Christmas! With the families together. That's our plan. 11-16-24
SICK
A lot of us were not feeling great on Sunday. Me, Erika, Sadie and Jack all stayed home. Kind of worried everyone would throw up, but nobody did. So that was nice. Sadie has a horrible cough though, not sure how much longer we should let that go. She looks and sounds awful. Erika was a zombie and slept almost the entire day. 11-17-24
A lot of us were not feeling great on Sunday. Me, Erika, Sadie and Jack all stayed home. Kind of worried everyone would throw up, but nobody did. So that was nice. Sadie has a horrible cough though, not sure how much longer we should let that go. She looks and sounds awful. Erika was a zombie and slept almost the entire day. 11-17-24
PHONE CALL WITH BRAD
We had a nice call with Brad, but he is not doing well. Just a little burnt out it seems. He's in a trio still, training natives. He is trying to be positive, but you can tell he's struggling. Kind of hard to see him struggle, but I know he will be able to dig his way out of this one. He's got such a fire burning inside, he just wants to be working so hard. Such an interesting challenge he's facing. But I'm praying for him. Hopefully things are looking up soon. We all got a good laugh about his comp telling us how old he is in his newly "bettered" English. Noah and Brad both used the word better in an interesting tense- Bettering and bettered. Within like an hour. Kind of funny. 11-17-24
We had a nice call with Brad, but he is not doing well. Just a little burnt out it seems. He's in a trio still, training natives. He is trying to be positive, but you can tell he's struggling. Kind of hard to see him struggle, but I know he will be able to dig his way out of this one. He's got such a fire burning inside, he just wants to be working so hard. Such an interesting challenge he's facing. But I'm praying for him. Hopefully things are looking up soon. We all got a good laugh about his comp telling us how old he is in his newly "bettered" English. Noah and Brad both used the word better in an interesting tense- Bettering and bettered. Within like an hour. Kind of funny. 11-17-24
EMAIL FROM BRAD- no subject
Hey guys happy day
Hey guys happy day
Monday was such a funny Pday. We wemt on a hike to a waterfall that didn't actually exist sadly. The buw we took got stock on this hill so then we had to push it up this sand hill which was actually lowkey so fun. We then played signs and that was fun again. We found this kid named Jose that was shch a cool guy and we are going to invite him soon to follow the example of his savior Jesus Christ.
Wednesday: we found another german kid for some reason. I find more and more respect for missionaries that serve in Europe every day. These people find no reason to believe in God. I find it really heart breaking to hear their hatred towards learning of Him. His mom is Peruvian though so there is hope. I then literally almost died. I felt so sick and did not have any strength to move literally. I had to just go buy me a strawberry wafer and take a lap around the block. Because after that somehow we spent the entire night sprinting to every cita. It was rough. But we saw awesome miracles.
I forgot to write the rest of this week. But basically I'm training again and he's another Latino from Lima Peru. He's super chill but superrrr new and awkward so we are learning a lot and trying to do everything in the lords way. .
Spiritual thought:
Literally guys I've said this again but read 3 Nephj 8-11. The first thing Christ did was give his priesthood to Nefi and the others there. That's how important the priesthood is.
That'd all today I'm sleepy haha.
EMAIL FROM LUKE- Transfer newssss
Hey guys! I hope yall had an awesome week. This has been a super busy week, we had a mission tour and transfers and had some of our most successful days so far, so let's get into it.
Monday was pday, we cleaned our apartment, it was really boring. I got to play basketball for a little bit.
Tuesday was mission tour/zone conference. We woke up at 4:30 and drove for a few hours down to bay city. We got to meet elder dunn and elder egbo of the quorum of the 70, they gave such cool lessons and devotionals and the spirit was so strong it was awesome. Unfortunately it went pretty long, and we had a bunch of lessons planned so it kinda screwed up our whole day but it's alright.
Wednesday was a crazy day. We found out over the phone that sister Stinson's husband ej passed away. I need yall to pray for sister Stinson because it's been pretty hard for her. We've been trying to get her ready for the temple so that she can do their temple sealing. We also got a media referral for this guy named cody and we went and stopped by and had a fire lesson with him. He's super awesome and loved everything we were saying.
Thursday we got another media referral and we planned to stop by, but we got there and it was literally a member. I don't think she realized it was more for non members but we taught a fire lesson anyways.
Friday was rough, we had a lot of lessons fall through.
Saturday was rough too. We got to teach this lady Michelle. She lives in a trailer home and somehow has 7 kids that live there too. This was one of the most eye opening lessons I've ever had. It's absolutely insane to see the difference between families that have been centered on christ and the gospel, vs families who's parents made not the best decisions in their lives. She wants her kids to be part of a church tho so hopefully we can get her and her fam to pull up to church. Most of our lessons fell through that day which sucks but it's fine. We have to push our friend Michael's baptism date even further, he's struggling a little. So plz pray for Michael
Sunday we visited with a lot of members and the difference between them and the family we visited saturday was crazy. Even just the feeling in their home was completely different. It made me just so grateful for the family I have and that I was able to be raised into the church. There really are blessings that come from being part of this church and following the commandments.
We got transfer news and I'm staying with Elder bushman in Friendswood!
Spiritual thought: 2 Nephi 31:5
And now, if the Lamb of God, he being holy, should have need to be baptized by water, to fulfil all righteousness, O then, how much more need have we, being unholy, to be baptized, yea, even by water!
PHONE CALL WITH LUKE
Luke is a lot of fun to talk to. This was a shorter call, but it was fun to hear how he's doing and all the fun new things he's seeing. I cannot believe all the times I've heard him mention that they got up at 4:30 and earlier. He's miraculously getting up at that time I guess :). It's nice to know he's thriving and feeling good. 11-18-24
FHE
I gave the lesson, we talked about what the Jaredites teach us. Then we had ice cream for the treat. 11-18-24
I gave the lesson, we talked about what the Jaredites teach us. Then we had ice cream for the treat. 11-18-24
SICK
We've had more sick days this week than I can even count. Sadie with her cough has caused me to call in to work the last two shifts which is starting to look bad. Mrs. Piper is missing Sadie. 11-19-24
We've had more sick days this week than I can even count. Sadie with her cough has caused me to call in to work the last two shifts which is starting to look bad. Mrs. Piper is missing Sadie. 11-19-24
DINNER WITH CLAIRE
I finally got to go to dinner with Claire. It's been longer than I thought. We talked all about the Stroke, the Type 1, and then I needed to go home- I felt bad she didn't get to talk about her life as much and so I called her on the phone as we drove home. She's such a good friend. I am really grateful for her. There's been an ongoing theme with the few hangouts I've had with old friends lately, with talking about the success of the kids. I don't know why it's been hard to talk about, but it has. Like if my kid doesn't have a PhD or on the way to get one, we're failing as parents or something. It's been so weird. I'm having a hard time wrapping my head around it all and trying to figure out where I stand. It's all good though. Claire was not wearing an engagement ring. 11-20-24
I finally got to go to dinner with Claire. It's been longer than I thought. We talked all about the Stroke, the Type 1, and then I needed to go home- I felt bad she didn't get to talk about her life as much and so I called her on the phone as we drove home. She's such a good friend. I am really grateful for her. There's been an ongoing theme with the few hangouts I've had with old friends lately, with talking about the success of the kids. I don't know why it's been hard to talk about, but it has. Like if my kid doesn't have a PhD or on the way to get one, we're failing as parents or something. It's been so weird. I'm having a hard time wrapping my head around it all and trying to figure out where I stand. It's all good though. Claire was not wearing an engagement ring. 11-20-24
WORK WITH NAUSEA
I probably shouldn't have gone to work, but I couldn't call in a third time in a row. So I went even though I was feeling really nauseous. It was SO hard to work. I felt like I was in slow motion and could hardly function. Plus, Tanner was super unorganized and things were all up in the air with no PO and not real plan for the day. That was frustrating. I came home and melted into the couch to try to regain some momentum for our Girls Night Out that night. It was a challenging shift, but I'm pretty proud of myself for making it through. Hopefully I didn't share too many germs with too many people. 11-21-24
I probably shouldn't have gone to work, but I couldn't call in a third time in a row. So I went even though I was feeling really nauseous. It was SO hard to work. I felt like I was in slow motion and could hardly function. Plus, Tanner was super unorganized and things were all up in the air with no PO and not real plan for the day. That was frustrating. I came home and melted into the couch to try to regain some momentum for our Girls Night Out that night. It was a challenging shift, but I'm pretty proud of myself for making it through. Hopefully I didn't share too many germs with too many people. 11-21-24
NUTCRACKER WITH THE GIRLS
We got all the girls this year! We went to The Habit for dinner and had a lot of fun chatting there. We learned the show wasn't til a half hour later than we thought, so we were able to really relax and enjoy ourselves, which was nice. I don't usually have that luxury. I thought we did pretty good with only a little contention and everyone seemed to have a good time. My only regret was feeling so sick! I was really nauseous and could barely eat and then all through the show I was trying to plan out how I would get out of my row and to the bathroom before puking the few bites of hamburger I had all over everyone. It was rough. But still fun. This tradition is a fun one. I think we might try to go to a different show next year, I just want to make sure we make it happen, so I will probably just do it around the same time. I just think it would be fun to see something different. There weren't as many friends in this year, so it was a little less entertaining, but we do love it still. Along with all the fun boutique browsing. So maybe just not EVERY year. Good stuff though. Love my girls. On the way home I got a text from Nate that Jack had thrown up. Such a bummer. I was stressed about his first illness. 11-21-24
We got all the girls this year! We went to The Habit for dinner and had a lot of fun chatting there. We learned the show wasn't til a half hour later than we thought, so we were able to really relax and enjoy ourselves, which was nice. I don't usually have that luxury. I thought we did pretty good with only a little contention and everyone seemed to have a good time. My only regret was feeling so sick! I was really nauseous and could barely eat and then all through the show I was trying to plan out how I would get out of my row and to the bathroom before puking the few bites of hamburger I had all over everyone. It was rough. But still fun. This tradition is a fun one. I think we might try to go to a different show next year, I just want to make sure we make it happen, so I will probably just do it around the same time. I just think it would be fun to see something different. There weren't as many friends in this year, so it was a little less entertaining, but we do love it still. Along with all the fun boutique browsing. So maybe just not EVERY year. Good stuff though. Love my girls. On the way home I got a text from Nate that Jack had thrown up. Such a bummer. I was stressed about his first illness. 11-21-24
JACK'S FIRST STOMACH BUG
This went better than I thought, but it may not be over yet. He threw up twice Thursday night and then just laid around all day Friday and Saturday with a stomach ache. I'm not sure why this is such a big deal, his numbers never spiked, he had almost no insulin all day Saturday and hardly ate. He had to keep eating candy to keep from going to low, but other than that and the battles to try to get him to eat, it wasn't too bad. We shall see. We're two days out and he's still not feeling like eating much and he's been low, so not sure how to handle that. Maybe less Basaglar if it comes down to it. I don't know. I didn't call the doctor like I should have so I'm a little nervous about that. But Jack is pushing through. I think he might survive. He did get up and get all dressed for church Sunday morning without any help and reminding! I was so shocked and so relieved!! He went ot his family history meeting and church without any hesitation. I hope he is feeling better. 11-21-24--11-23-24
This went better than I thought, but it may not be over yet. He threw up twice Thursday night and then just laid around all day Friday and Saturday with a stomach ache. I'm not sure why this is such a big deal, his numbers never spiked, he had almost no insulin all day Saturday and hardly ate. He had to keep eating candy to keep from going to low, but other than that and the battles to try to get him to eat, it wasn't too bad. We shall see. We're two days out and he's still not feeling like eating much and he's been low, so not sure how to handle that. Maybe less Basaglar if it comes down to it. I don't know. I didn't call the doctor like I should have so I'm a little nervous about that. But Jack is pushing through. I think he might survive. He did get up and get all dressed for church Sunday morning without any help and reminding! I was so shocked and so relieved!! He went ot his family history meeting and church without any hesitation. I hope he is feeling better. 11-21-24--11-23-24
FRIDAY
I was sick as a dog Friday. Not throwing up but my body finds a way to reject the germs- all day! It was so hard. I was able to spend a LOT of time working on the missionary book I'm selling. Got it mostly done after sitting around Friday and Saturday. Kind of nice. But I have not felt this sick in a long time! Chills, fever, achiness. It's been awful. 36 hours of sitting on the toilet. You know. Not great. I had to miss out on the High School Play- Beauty And The Beast and let Nate take the little girls. They actually had a blast, so that was okay, but man. I hope this ends soon. 11-22-24--11-24-24
I was sick as a dog Friday. Not throwing up but my body finds a way to reject the germs- all day! It was so hard. I was able to spend a LOT of time working on the missionary book I'm selling. Got it mostly done after sitting around Friday and Saturday. Kind of nice. But I have not felt this sick in a long time! Chills, fever, achiness. It's been awful. 36 hours of sitting on the toilet. You know. Not great. I had to miss out on the High School Play- Beauty And The Beast and let Nate take the little girls. They actually had a blast, so that was okay, but man. I hope this ends soon. 11-22-24--11-24-24
KIRSTINA MANWARING WEDDING
I got to see Charity Manwaring Saturday! I almost talked myself out of it because we've been feeling so crappy I didn't think I should take my germs or leave everyone home, but I went anyway! Molly came with me! We just popped in and popped out, but it was so fun to see Charity and Nick and their kids! She was so sweet and gave me the biggest hug when I saw her. Then introduced me to all her Alaska friends who were there. Kinda fun. She is so nice to talk to and such a great friend. Made me miss her again. I will be calling her for tips on weddings and married kids later. She made sure Molly grabbed a plate of snacks for everyone at home. So Charity of her. It was really fun to see her. 11-23-24
I got to see Charity Manwaring Saturday! I almost talked myself out of it because we've been feeling so crappy I didn't think I should take my germs or leave everyone home, but I went anyway! Molly came with me! We just popped in and popped out, but it was so fun to see Charity and Nick and their kids! She was so sweet and gave me the biggest hug when I saw her. Then introduced me to all her Alaska friends who were there. Kinda fun. She is so nice to talk to and such a great friend. Made me miss her again. I will be calling her for tips on weddings and married kids later. She made sure Molly grabbed a plate of snacks for everyone at home. So Charity of her. It was really fun to see her. 11-23-24
ERIKA PATRIARCHAL BLESSING
This was such a neat experience. Such a great mom paycheck kind of day. Erika got to have our new Patriarch, Patriarch Morrell. This was special because she actually knows him kind of. She had Diane as her Primary teacher back in CTR6 too. We got to sit and talk with him at first, hear how Erika feels about things. He was cool to mention that one thing that helps Patriarchs is to hear the person's voice. So this was cool. She had the most amazing blessing! It was so beautiful! So Erika. I love that I know her and that I can see that Heavenly Father knows her, through her blessing. Such a cool blessing to have the Priesthood on the earth. What would we do without it? She had the sniffles and worried about sniffing too loudly for the recording, but I think she was fine. It was cute that she worried about that. We're all anxious for her to get her written copy :). 11-24-24
This was such a neat experience. Such a great mom paycheck kind of day. Erika got to have our new Patriarch, Patriarch Morrell. This was special because she actually knows him kind of. She had Diane as her Primary teacher back in CTR6 too. We got to sit and talk with him at first, hear how Erika feels about things. He was cool to mention that one thing that helps Patriarchs is to hear the person's voice. So this was cool. She had the most amazing blessing! It was so beautiful! So Erika. I love that I know her and that I can see that Heavenly Father knows her, through her blessing. Such a cool blessing to have the Priesthood on the earth. What would we do without it? She had the sniffles and worried about sniffing too loudly for the recording, but I think she was fine. It was cute that she worried about that. We're all anxious for her to get her written copy :). 11-24-24
BRAD'S PHONE CALL
This was a funny phone call. We talked mostly with Brad's companion who is learning Spanish. Kind of funny. Brad has taught him well. All the right things like, "Elder Maynes is a good missionary". It's always fun to see Brad though. And we did get to hear about his really special experience with the guy who was making a list of who he wanted at his baptism, not just to watch, but dressed in white making all the same covenants. I can't wait to hear how that goes. Glad he still makes time for us. 11-24-24
This was a funny phone call. We talked mostly with Brad's companion who is learning Spanish. Kind of funny. Brad has taught him well. All the right things like, "Elder Maynes is a good missionary". It's always fun to see Brad though. And we did get to hear about his really special experience with the guy who was making a list of who he wanted at his baptism, not just to watch, but dressed in white making all the same covenants. I can't wait to hear how that goes. Glad he still makes time for us. 11-24-24
LUKE'S EMAIL
Alriiiiiight how's it going everyone???
Thanks so much for the emails yall are sending me, sorry if I can't reply to them but I promise I'm reading them.
Ngl this week was a tough week for us. We worked super hard so hopefully this next week we can see more success.
We had to take our friend Michael off date but we had such a powerful lesson with him the other day. He's just really struggling with his purpose and so we were trying to help him see that baptism will bless his life so much. I need yall to pray for him cuz it will literally change his life if he can get baptized.
We went out with a member, Dr b, this week and dropped off turkeys to a bunch of inactive members or part member families.
We've also been visiting a member named Karen, and her husband is not a member and recently he's been sitting in on the lessons and he gets super excited when we come. Hopefully some good things will come from that.
Spiritual thought:
1 nephi 8, this is lehis dream
11 And it came to pass that I did go forth and partake of the fruit thereof; and I beheld that it was most sweet, above all that I ever before tasted. Yea, and I beheld that the fruit thereof was white, to exceed all the whiteness that I had ever seen.
12 And as I partook of the fruit thereof it filled my soul with exceedingly great joy; wherefore, I began to be desirous that my family should partake of it also; for I knew that it was desirable above all other fruit
As we partake of the love of God, we will gain a desire to share it with others. Try to find a way to share it with someone this week
Short email this week sorry, love y'all
I also spoke in sacrament meeting yesterday. Go ahead and give it a listen
BRAD'S EMAIL
This week was pretty cool to be honest. I think ill always remember some of the people I met and the lessons we had.
This week we had leadership again which was super fun. All of the people that were here my first few times are now gone and so its super different but its still super fun. We have a crazy leaderhip in our mission. Its very full of amazing Elders and Sisters.
Let me tell you guys about the most powerful lesson I've legit ever had.
It all started with planning the lesson. A lot of the time I'm not too excited to plan lessons and really put a ton of effort into them. But this time we did. And we prepared scriptures specifically for our friend Jose. When we got there we started teaching the doctrine of baptism. The doctrine that we ALL need to follow in order to return to our Heavenly Father. We re-explained the doctrine of covenants, baptism, and talked about how the only way you can do these covenants is through the correct priesthood. We taught that there are so many people out there in the world who are trying to follow christ but don't have access to his divine power that we recieve in covenants. The thing about feeling the spirit in lessons is that It's not a passive thing. The spirit doesn't just show up and hit us right in the face out of the blue. It requires effort. We gave a lot of effort. And when we reached halfway we felt the spirit and asked our friend Jose: "Jose, who do you want at your baptism in 4 weeks? But not in your baptism watching it from a distance but there with you in white clothes making the same covenant with their heavenly father?" That's when the spirit flew in. We gave him a sheet of paper to write the names of all the people he loved most that he wanted to make the same covenant. We listened to gesthemane during this part and I legit felt like we were in the celestial room of the temple. It was the strongest I have ever felt the spirit here on the mission. Me and my comp looked at eachother and we were almost in tears. After the lesson we were talking and both felt so strongly that that was how the Lord wants us to do his work. That is how he wants us to helo every child of His to return to Him. I felt very strongly that this was the work of the Lord and I learned a few things from that lesson.
AUNT DANNY'S FUNERAL
Jack's numbers were so weird ever since he was sick Thursday and we weren't really sure how to handle it all. I called Monday morning to talk to a nurse and she was somewhat helpful, but also not really. His pancreas was obviously working and so he was needing WAY less insulin so it was throwing everything off. I eventually dropped his basaglar dose down to 8 from 13 and his meal doses were completely unnecessary, so that was strange. But anyway- I decided to drive myself to the funeral since I wasn't sure if he was going to need me at a moment's notice or not. Kind of crazy. But anyway. I got there, got to hear all about Aunt Danny. She was such a sweet lady. I really loved that they mentioned she would just drop everything when someone came over. That's how my grandma was too. I want to be like that. She also had cookies and treats for any kids who came over and made everyone feel special. I would love to emulate that. She was always so nice to me. Let me hug her and get my almost grandma fix for the past 16 years. She was fun to laugh and joke with too. She understood things and was very compassionate. I loved talking with her and having her in my life. I will miss her, but I bet it was a pretty fun reunion with her mom, dad and sister along with the reunion with Uncle Richard. They were a cute couple. I can only imagine. I hope her family can find comfort soon and not have to have too big a hole in their hearts for too long. Never goes away though. We went over to the grave as well and then I decided not to stay for the luncheon and just grab some food on the way home. I needed to get home to do baggie books in Sadie's class. 11-25-24
Jack's numbers were so weird ever since he was sick Thursday and we weren't really sure how to handle it all. I called Monday morning to talk to a nurse and she was somewhat helpful, but also not really. His pancreas was obviously working and so he was needing WAY less insulin so it was throwing everything off. I eventually dropped his basaglar dose down to 8 from 13 and his meal doses were completely unnecessary, so that was strange. But anyway- I decided to drive myself to the funeral since I wasn't sure if he was going to need me at a moment's notice or not. Kind of crazy. But anyway. I got there, got to hear all about Aunt Danny. She was such a sweet lady. I really loved that they mentioned she would just drop everything when someone came over. That's how my grandma was too. I want to be like that. She also had cookies and treats for any kids who came over and made everyone feel special. I would love to emulate that. She was always so nice to me. Let me hug her and get my almost grandma fix for the past 16 years. She was fun to laugh and joke with too. She understood things and was very compassionate. I loved talking with her and having her in my life. I will miss her, but I bet it was a pretty fun reunion with her mom, dad and sister along with the reunion with Uncle Richard. They were a cute couple. I can only imagine. I hope her family can find comfort soon and not have to have too big a hole in their hearts for too long. Never goes away though. We went over to the grave as well and then I decided not to stay for the luncheon and just grab some food on the way home. I needed to get home to do baggie books in Sadie's class. 11-25-24
LUKE'S PHONE CALL
Luke's call was shorter this week, but so fun to hear how his week went. He sounded pretty busy. It wasn't his favorite week though. It's been so interesting to hear about a different kind of mission. 11-25-24
Luke's call was shorter this week, but so fun to hear how his week went. He sounded pretty busy. It wasn't his favorite week though. It's been so interesting to hear about a different kind of mission. 11-25-24
FHE
Nate was the lesson we learned about the challenges the Jaredites faced and then related them to ours. Very nice. We played Code Names for the game and then went and got Dairy Queen for the treat. 11-25-24
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST AT DAVIS HIGH WITH JANEEL
Janeel had invited me to a movie last week when I was out with Claire so I thought I'd return the invite and go see Beauty and the Beast with her since I'd missed mine and Nate's date to go last week. This was such a fun musical! They did such an amazing job! I enjoyed talking with Janeel a bit and then the play was just so spectacular it was a great night! Hats off to Tony Nybo as Lumiere- he did amazing! We're still trying to figure out how he holds his arms up like that the entire show! And also Levi Larsen for the choreography! Apparently that was all him. Very well done! 11-26-24
Janeel had invited me to a movie last week when I was out with Claire so I thought I'd return the invite and go see Beauty and the Beast with her since I'd missed mine and Nate's date to go last week. This was such a fun musical! They did such an amazing job! I enjoyed talking with Janeel a bit and then the play was just so spectacular it was a great night! Hats off to Tony Nybo as Lumiere- he did amazing! We're still trying to figure out how he holds his arms up like that the entire show! And also Levi Larsen for the choreography! Apparently that was all him. Very well done! 11-26-24
WEDNESDAY
This was our clean the house day. Ended up being pretty pleasant which I wrote down as my tender mercy for the day. We're getting better at that. We decided to go hang out at Station Park for a bit that evening. We went to the toy store, then over to Pretzel Bites, that's when Charity and gimpy Hunter joined us and then over to the Lego Store where Jack spent that $50 that has been burning a hole in his Greenlight account. Then we went back to Pretzel Time only to find out they closed just minutes before we got there (2nds on pretzel bites were out!), then we headed back home. Nate dropped me off so I could make dinner and then took everyone else to get candy for the gingerbread houses. Charity and Hunter had joined us at Station Park as well as Kelly. Kind of a fun little outing. Although the little girls would have liked it more if they'd been able to buy all the toys they wanted at the toy store. 11-27-24
This was our clean the house day. Ended up being pretty pleasant which I wrote down as my tender mercy for the day. We're getting better at that. We decided to go hang out at Station Park for a bit that evening. We went to the toy store, then over to Pretzel Bites, that's when Charity and gimpy Hunter joined us and then over to the Lego Store where Jack spent that $50 that has been burning a hole in his Greenlight account. Then we went back to Pretzel Time only to find out they closed just minutes before we got there (2nds on pretzel bites were out!), then we headed back home. Nate dropped me off so I could make dinner and then took everyone else to get candy for the gingerbread houses. Charity and Hunter had joined us at Station Park as well as Kelly. Kind of a fun little outing. Although the little girls would have liked it more if they'd been able to buy all the toys they wanted at the toy store. 11-27-24
THANKSGIVING DAY!
This Thanksgiving was quite the wild ride. We had invited my dad, Jo, my mom, Simon, Steve, Dan and Adele and their family. We did the three table set up in each room, living room, kitchen and family room. We'd given out food assignments and Nate was planning on making the turkey and mashed potatoes- ad libbed some gravy at the last minute which ended up being really delicious, and I was making the rolls and stuffing. We'd timed everything just right with prepping food, baking it and setting up and cleaning the house. I was able to get the dishes done mid way through the day- took about na hour and then by the time we ate the sink was COMPLETELY full with dishes again! So crazy. Unfortunately, about an hour before everyone was supposed to get here Molly threw up. This felt like a big wrench. She threw up on the couch and over the side toward the back door. Kind of gross and a big mess. Poor Steve was sitting right there with me, so he had to hear, see and smell it all. I cleaned up a lot of it, Nate did the rest. It was gross. We sent texts to everyone letting them know and nobody really said much, so we just carried on as usual. We were going to let Molly join in on the fun but then she had another episode as she ran out the back door- smart girl threw up outside. She was then sequestered to the basement with Nate's phone to watch movies, play games, and barf on her own while we enjoyed Thanksgiving dinner. Nate was so nice to join her off and on. It was a crazy day! We had our dinner everything was going great. Grandpa and Jo insisted on pie right after we ate which was funny because I felt like we were too full. They had bought an $80 Pumpkin Cheesecake from the Cheesecake factory which was pretty amazing! We ate that! Then the Taylors showed up! And I felt bad because we had not really been responsible for doing the pies before they came, but they brought a couple too. We got things all set up for gingerbread houses and I sat and glued crackers together for everyone to decorate for the rest of the evening. This is a fun tradition, everyone loves it. I made way too much frosting, but that's okay. It was a good time! We sat and talked with Meg and Chris all night. The mess is still kind of lingering, but we did pretty good at getting most of it taken care of. Charity, Hunter and Kelly were all here to celebrate with us, that was nice! Happy day! 11-28-24
FRIDAY
There was not much motivation going on in our house on Friday. We all slept in and then bummed around most of the day. Our plan to go to the Ogden village was thwarted when I learned it didn't start til the next day! We had people going in and out of feeling good all weekend, and this felt like the day to recharge everyone. We watched a LOT of movies. Ate a LOT of leftovers, candy, and pie. It was crazy! We spoiled ourselves with Panda for dinner which was delicious. And then a game and movie night. 11-29-24
There was not much motivation going on in our house on Friday. We all slept in and then bummed around most of the day. Our plan to go to the Ogden village was thwarted when I learned it didn't start til the next day! We had people going in and out of feeling good all weekend, and this felt like the day to recharge everyone. We watched a LOT of movies. Ate a LOT of leftovers, candy, and pie. It was crazy! We spoiled ourselves with Panda for dinner which was delicious. And then a game and movie night. 11-29-24
SATURDAY
This was slightly less lazy of a day than Friday. We got more of the Thanksgiving mess put away. We drove out to Salt Lake to take Brad's package to Rubi's and then grabbed Carls Jr. and Costa Vida on our way home. Costa Vida is so yummy. When we got home we tried to play a few games. I don't know what was going on with everyone, maybe maxed out on fun. Meg stopped by to kill some time before a party and we got to talk a little about the books I've been working on. And then we dragged ourselves out of the house one last time for the Ogden Village! We surprised ourselves with getting there in time for the parade- watched a little of that. Kind of a strange parade. Not sure why satan and his minions were invited and I still think it's funny Kelly used Key Bank as a landmark. We had enough fun though, got a picture with a snowman, got to count down to the lights being turned on, watched the fun fireworks and then wandered through the "village" to see all the fun ways they decorated the little cottages. Sadie loved this part! There were SO MANY PEOPLE there. Who knew it was so popular! But we managed to have some fun and thankfully the van was still in the shady spot I'd parked it. With no windows blown out. We grabbed some hot chocolate and pizzas for dinner on the way home. I loved talking with Jack and Molly doing our "Pumpkin pie or apple pie?" scenarios on every matter possible. I think we need to go see the village when it's not packed with people, but it was a fun night! We of course watched the Jazz game and a movie to end the night.
11-30-24
10-14-24