Monday, May 31, 2010
Dengue Fever and a New Comp
Dear People,
You people are awesome! This week has been a lil bit of a roller coaster. So lets jump right in...
So Wednesday, we went and did the baptisimal interviews for Leonardo, Roseli, and Lucia. I was with the DL, ELder Sena, in division. The schedule was so ridulous, we crossed our ginormous area 5 times! It was the only way to do it because of the schedules of those being interviewed, and other appointments. Everyone got in, but it was a long day haha. And they all passed! Really great!
Thursday we had Zone conference. It was really good, as always. Its always super great to see those other great missionaries, and to hear from the leaders. Elder Godoi, of the area presidency was there. He talked a lot about traps of the mission. Lil ways to use our time better, and get more baptisms and such. Really liked it. He also said that one of the biggest reasons we got sent to Sao Paulo was to to learn from President Richardson. I really felt that, he is a good president, and I have learned quite a lot from him. I can see how he is helping me out a ton. Least thats what I thought thursday...
Friday night, I came down with dengue fever! Woohoo! That was great haha. Felt like I got hit by a semi-truck. and like someone was trying to take my eyes out with spoons. But after sleeping all Saturday and Sunday I was all good. Now Im just stuck with a wonderful full-body rash. haha Super crazy. I dont really mind, at least it gives me something interesting to write in the journal!
Sunday, we had the baptisms! It went really well, I even had the opportunity to baptize Roseli. Afterwards, she told us she would remember us and be grateful for eternity. That is a wonderful thing to hear, not going to lie. She is a wonderful woman, truly saw the light in her eyes afterwards. Thats what this is all about!
So, for the climax. Transfers! We got tranfer calls at about 11:30 Sunday night. Elder Finlinson got transferred! AND so did Elder Faria, from our house. But no missionaries got tranferred here... which leaves me and Elder Perry with two areas! They are both ginormous! Crazy!
I was pretty sad about Elder Finlinson leaving, he was my favorite companion for sure, I really liked working with the kid. We had a blast. Hes the kinda guy I will def hang out with post mish. Anyways, yesterday morning I got a call from President... He told me that Elder Perry and I, in a week or so, would both get companions. But they would be young men who arent actually missionaries yet, but are waiting for calls. So he broke it down from me. He said you will be training, a brazilian, who never even went to the MTC. He told me the mission went down six missionaries this transfer, and that he knew he could trust me to take care of the area.
Pray for me hahaha
I am excited, but I am definitely nervous a bit. My "carefree" days are over, its gonna be an adventure! Haha
But everything here is good, I am still having a great time, and now, I'm gonna go take a nap :)
I got the package! Not the second one yet, but thank you so very much! Was super great to get that! Winter clothes will definitely not be needing haha but thanks anyways! And a thermal blanket, please no haha I sleep in a sheet, if its not to hot!
I am really excited about the deck, thats gonna be awesome! Sounds like your week was really busy, and really fun! Would have been great to see some of the performances, but I know you guys did great! I loved the pictures! Well, I am running out of time, I love you all! I hope J does play football! haha
Love you all!
Elder Jake
Sunday, May 23, 2010
No ordinary missionary!
Ola meus amigos estranhos!
This week was pretty good, we are getting some stuff moving! So just a few lil bits of random for ya...
Lucia is doing great! She is progressing and all, she stopped smoking! She is a fairly stubborn woman, so when she made up her mind to stop smoking, she stuck to it! Her baptism is all ready for this sunday!
Roseli is also ready. She loves the missionaries quite a lot, and is so excited to be baptized! What a great lady, she has so much faith, and studies the scriptures ridiculously well! sometimes leaving the missionaries running behind her tryin to catch up! haha She keeps us sharp, and on our toes.
Leonardo is a fly cat. He is 15, and we found him through a soccer night.
Side story--> Every thursday night, the ward has youth soccer at the church. A ton of people show up. They made a new rule last week, that the non-members had to heara message before they played. So we taught 14 young men last week, and one was Leonardo.
He has been going to church for awhile, and even seminary. His grandma is a member, but his parents arent, and don't want anything to do with the church, but tonight we have an appointment with him, and we will invite him to be baptized this sunday as well!
Another side note. I was really tired this week, as often happens to missionaries.When we were teaching Leonardo the 2nd time, I fell alseep during the lesson! But many missionaries do that, and we all know Elder Jake is not an ordinary, average missionary! I fell asleep WHILE TEACHING. I know, thats ridiculous. haha only me... haha but I am doing great now!
So thats way cool that President Farias is in contact with you guys, he is a great help for sure! I am also glad to hear my parents are concerned with my eating. Haha, but dont worry! You know me, I am not going to go with out food! We made plans! We have as many family nights as we can, which fulfills the mission purpose extremely well as we intergrate members and investigators, and we eat really well! Also, we have had this problem, where the sisters just want you to keeping eating more, and more, and more at lunch! So, we came up with a genius idea. "We have to go right now, so can we take some home?" We no longer have to eat til we wanna vomit, no longer go hungry at night, and, even better, the sister loves how we love her food so much that we would take some home! Life is good here in Praia Grande :)
Yesterday, there was this kid in her moms arms when they were walking down the street. They were in front of us, and the kid, facing backwards was the only one who could see us. I Gave her a big smile and a thumbs up. She looked at me, and then began to vomit. A lot. haha! We just walked by and pretended that it wasnt my fault. I thought it was rather a funny experience.
So I lost my name tag for a few days a while back and I used Ross´ for awhile. No one noticed, except for one less-active guy. He thought it was pretty funny! I'm just glad President Richardson didnt notice...
W- Sounds like you are having a blast kid! You are always (at least from what i see haha) loving life! thats awesome! I love telling people stories about you and the other kids. freaking write me a letter! then you can get back to life kid!
[In my letter to Jake last week, I wrote, "Today, W is sick and stayed home from church. Earlier in the am, he and A were playing the game “Life.” Then took a break. After a while, W asked if he could “get back to Life.” I laughed. He didn’t understand why I laughed. When I explained why, his face just broke in a grin."]
A- Did you have fun performing? I bet you did, youve got an awesome stage presence, and a great smile, so i know evryone enjoyed watching you! I wanna see some pictures! Write me a letter!
J- I hear you are on a growth spurt! Thats way sweet haha and I am real proud you take the passing of sacrement seriously, its an important job! i hope you had fun on the campout! That campout was pretty fun when I went, I freaking love camping. There are a lot of people who camp here. But its usually because they are too drunk to find there homes. Not quite as cool haha Write me a carta!
S- You'll get your letter, but I guess I still love you
Mom- It seems like you and your lil dream team are doing a great job of showing the love of the savior, which is a great example for me. Thanks team ;). I really liked what Sister Entze said about skin cancer, I loved that attitude! Sounds like you are as usual juggling super well, Im learning a bit of that right now!
Ross, thanks for the letter man, Ill try andwrite you back today, if not, next week!
Well, love you people, dont do drugs, choose the right, have your dogs and cats spayed or neutered!
Elder Jake
In a separate letter to his dad, Elder Jake wrote -
This week was pretty good, we are getting some stuff moving! So just a few lil bits of random for ya...
Lucia is doing great! She is progressing and all, she stopped smoking! She is a fairly stubborn woman, so when she made up her mind to stop smoking, she stuck to it! Her baptism is all ready for this sunday!
Roseli is also ready. She loves the missionaries quite a lot, and is so excited to be baptized! What a great lady, she has so much faith, and studies the scriptures ridiculously well! sometimes leaving the missionaries running behind her tryin to catch up! haha She keeps us sharp, and on our toes.
Leonardo is a fly cat. He is 15, and we found him through a soccer night.
Side story--> Every thursday night, the ward has youth soccer at the church. A ton of people show up. They made a new rule last week, that the non-members had to heara message before they played. So we taught 14 young men last week, and one was Leonardo.
He has been going to church for awhile, and even seminary. His grandma is a member, but his parents arent, and don't want anything to do with the church, but tonight we have an appointment with him, and we will invite him to be baptized this sunday as well!
Another side note. I was really tired this week, as often happens to missionaries.When we were teaching Leonardo the 2nd time, I fell alseep during the lesson! But many missionaries do that, and we all know Elder Jake is not an ordinary, average missionary! I fell asleep WHILE TEACHING. I know, thats ridiculous. haha only me... haha but I am doing great now!
So thats way cool that President Farias is in contact with you guys, he is a great help for sure! I am also glad to hear my parents are concerned with my eating. Haha, but dont worry! You know me, I am not going to go with out food! We made plans! We have as many family nights as we can, which fulfills the mission purpose extremely well as we intergrate members and investigators, and we eat really well! Also, we have had this problem, where the sisters just want you to keeping eating more, and more, and more at lunch! So, we came up with a genius idea. "We have to go right now, so can we take some home?" We no longer have to eat til we wanna vomit, no longer go hungry at night, and, even better, the sister loves how we love her food so much that we would take some home! Life is good here in Praia Grande :)
Yesterday, there was this kid in her moms arms when they were walking down the street. They were in front of us, and the kid, facing backwards was the only one who could see us. I Gave her a big smile and a thumbs up. She looked at me, and then began to vomit. A lot. haha! We just walked by and pretended that it wasnt my fault. I thought it was rather a funny experience.
So I lost my name tag for a few days a while back and I used Ross´ for awhile. No one noticed, except for one less-active guy. He thought it was pretty funny! I'm just glad President Richardson didnt notice...
W- Sounds like you are having a blast kid! You are always (at least from what i see haha) loving life! thats awesome! I love telling people stories about you and the other kids. freaking write me a letter! then you can get back to life kid!
[In my letter to Jake last week, I wrote, "Today, W is sick and stayed home from church. Earlier in the am, he and A were playing the game “Life.” Then took a break. After a while, W asked if he could “get back to Life.” I laughed. He didn’t understand why I laughed. When I explained why, his face just broke in a grin."]
A- Did you have fun performing? I bet you did, youve got an awesome stage presence, and a great smile, so i know evryone enjoyed watching you! I wanna see some pictures! Write me a letter!
J- I hear you are on a growth spurt! Thats way sweet haha and I am real proud you take the passing of sacrement seriously, its an important job! i hope you had fun on the campout! That campout was pretty fun when I went, I freaking love camping. There are a lot of people who camp here. But its usually because they are too drunk to find there homes. Not quite as cool haha Write me a carta!
S- You'll get your letter, but I guess I still love you
Mom- It seems like you and your lil dream team are doing a great job of showing the love of the savior, which is a great example for me. Thanks team ;). I really liked what Sister Entze said about skin cancer, I loved that attitude! Sounds like you are as usual juggling super well, Im learning a bit of that right now!
Ross, thanks for the letter man, Ill try andwrite you back today, if not, next week!
Well, love you people, dont do drugs, choose the right, have your dogs and cats spayed or neutered!
Elder Jake
In a separate letter to his dad, Elder Jake wrote -
Hey Pops!
I hope you had a great week on the home front! Thats pretty cool of you to prepare two different talks, thats a great example of following the spirit, even if it means more work. Thanks for thanking them for me as well, I will never be caught up in all the thanking I have to do!
Thats crazy that so many of the high council are changing. Do you know why? If you could some how work your way up to become stake president in the next year and a half, that would be a wonderful blessing so i can get released before we travel. Haha!
Sounds like you are staying really busy, and having a bit of fun too! Thanks for being such a great example!
Thanks for the great letters, and for the support! I love you, have a great week!
Elder Jake
Friday, May 14, 2010
A Happy Mother's Day
[We had a great visit with Elder Jake via phone and were able to link Ross and Katie in as well. Everyone "together" for a short time = the best of Mother's Days.]
Dear People,
It was pretty awesome to talk to you guys, I really loved it. And dont worry it got ended abrubtly, I understood, and also had a lesson I had to get to! Its all good!
Its amazing how much a phone call can help, it was a great reminder of who I am, and of some things I needed to change. Families are truely the best thing on this earth, as annoying as they can be a times ;) haha thanks for that great call and for the love and support you guys give me!
That is way sweet Ward and Helida are thinking about coming to Brazil, I dont know for sure, but I am fairly confident President will allow them to visit me. I dont see a problem with that at all. In fact, I personally LOVE the idea! haha but maybe thats not all that suprising. Ill talk to him more down the road when plans are more finalized, and when he knows me better. I'm pumped though, itd be sweet if that could go down. That is crazy that the missionaries her mom sto´pped knew me! What are the chances of that!
I am glad Mom that you had a great mothers day! I completely forgot to wish you a happy mothers day! Happy mothers day! Sounds like W and A did a great job though, along with everyone else!
Well, not much to say, I said it all Sunday! But yesterday, I did a division with Elder Faria, from Rio, and it was great. It is always awesome to do a division with a Brazilian, I learn so much. They proly think Im crazy, I try to talk ALL day so that I can practice and use that tool. But we have a lot of fun. I have this friend here, Danilo. He is a RM, he is President Farias' son, and he goes out with us when he can. Super fly cat. Anyway, he has been helping me with my language a bit, and he tells me Im really close to losing the accent. He gave me some advice, along with his mother, and I am gonna work on it, and kill the accent :)
Anyways, yesterday one of our investigatiors gave us some great news! She, Roseli, told us that her "friend" moved out. He is an ex-communicated member, this is his third "amiga", andthey didnt have a relationship at this point. They didnt even talk for the past two months really. He would drive to church, and she and he son would walk. But because they were living together, she couldnt be baptized. Well, finally, he left! I am sad because I really liked this guy. Not sure whats going on with him, why he is strugglin so much, but I loved that guy, he was a good friend, and he left the area.. But the great part is she now can be baptized! When we invited her to be baptized, she got the biggest smile on her face and whole-heartedly agreed! So that sould be great! Anyways, Thats all I got for now, have a great week!
Love you all!
Elder Jake
PS - Mom, loved that article award thing! Congrats!
Dear People,
It was pretty awesome to talk to you guys, I really loved it. And dont worry it got ended abrubtly, I understood, and also had a lesson I had to get to! Its all good!
Its amazing how much a phone call can help, it was a great reminder of who I am, and of some things I needed to change. Families are truely the best thing on this earth, as annoying as they can be a times ;) haha thanks for that great call and for the love and support you guys give me!
That is way sweet Ward and Helida are thinking about coming to Brazil, I dont know for sure, but I am fairly confident President will allow them to visit me. I dont see a problem with that at all. In fact, I personally LOVE the idea! haha but maybe thats not all that suprising. Ill talk to him more down the road when plans are more finalized, and when he knows me better. I'm pumped though, itd be sweet if that could go down. That is crazy that the missionaries her mom sto´pped knew me! What are the chances of that!
I am glad Mom that you had a great mothers day! I completely forgot to wish you a happy mothers day! Happy mothers day! Sounds like W and A did a great job though, along with everyone else!
Well, not much to say, I said it all Sunday! But yesterday, I did a division with Elder Faria, from Rio, and it was great. It is always awesome to do a division with a Brazilian, I learn so much. They proly think Im crazy, I try to talk ALL day so that I can practice and use that tool. But we have a lot of fun. I have this friend here, Danilo. He is a RM, he is President Farias' son, and he goes out with us when he can. Super fly cat. Anyway, he has been helping me with my language a bit, and he tells me Im really close to losing the accent. He gave me some advice, along with his mother, and I am gonna work on it, and kill the accent :)
Anyways, yesterday one of our investigatiors gave us some great news! She, Roseli, told us that her "friend" moved out. He is an ex-communicated member, this is his third "amiga", andthey didnt have a relationship at this point. They didnt even talk for the past two months really. He would drive to church, and she and he son would walk. But because they were living together, she couldnt be baptized. Well, finally, he left! I am sad because I really liked this guy. Not sure whats going on with him, why he is strugglin so much, but I loved that guy, he was a good friend, and he left the area.. But the great part is she now can be baptized! When we invited her to be baptized, she got the biggest smile on her face and whole-heartedly agreed! So that sould be great! Anyways, Thats all I got for now, have a great week!
Love you all!
Elder Jake
PS - Mom, loved that article award thing! Congrats!
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Hanging on
[Elder Jake was having difficulties with the internet at the cafe. It kept shutting down on him.]
Alrighty Mama, Try number 4... I got about ten mins now. And then I got a meeting with the ward counsel, prolly shouldnt miss that.
Hey :)
This week was good, I really can't complain! So let's see where I can start.
We haven't had a whole lot of investigators, this area is pretty tough, but we are starting to get there, slowly, but we are gettin there! We had a great family show up to church, Airton and Leu. They are married! And a great family. He would be great friends with Del, reminds me a bit of him, which is awesome. We taught them the other day and they were super good, very excited. However, they do like to talk. A lot. They were both talking, at the same time, for most of the lesson. Its crazy! That's a situation that really pushes your language skills! I was grateful I was able to stay afloat there :) They are living here, but have a farm somewhere else that they go visit every once in a while, to take care of the horses, which I wanna visit, and they did invite us, so we'll see.
The Book of Mormon Lady didn't come to church, which I was really sad about. But the work moves on!
This other lady is Lucia. She is about 45, and all of her kids are members, I think. We found her in the address book. We taught her the second lesson, and then I invited her to be baptized. Worst invite I've ever done! I couldn't get the words out right, and I couldn't think. It was weird, and rather annoying. But then she accepted! Then, when I did a division with the LZ, I told them about it. He was shocked! He said she had been invited to be baptized loads of times, and had been an investigator for a long time. She had never even thought about baptism, just quickly answered no! I am glad I didn't know that.
I heard a quote once that said missionaries are capable of doing things they are not capable of doing, because they do not know they are not capable of doing them. Also really helped me learn that this is the Lords work, and even with the worst invite, he can touch the heart of a very stubborn woman. (She still is very stubborn, but also very ready to be baptized!).
Because we haven't had a ton of investigators to focus on, I have had a lot of time to think about improving myself as a missionary, to better help the people here. I have been loving the scriptures, and at times become a lil sad with the short amount of study time I have now that my companion wants to do comp study ;) I was really loving that load of personal study time, but I am also loving comp study, and I am learning a ton from this kid!
I, too, Mom have been thinking a lot about prayer this week! I have really been trying to pray more, even though this transfer isn't as hard. I am really impressed by the power of prayer, and how it can help me out in all situations, and let me feel the love of my Heavenly Father. Prayer is the greatest thing ever! haha! I am super grateful for that, and being able to pray always, even if just to say a quick prayer thankin the Lord for my blessings!
I'll call this week with info on the call!]
Love ya
Elder Jake!
Alrighty Mama, Try number 4... I got about ten mins now. And then I got a meeting with the ward counsel, prolly shouldnt miss that.
Hey :)
This week was good, I really can't complain! So let's see where I can start.
We haven't had a whole lot of investigators, this area is pretty tough, but we are starting to get there, slowly, but we are gettin there! We had a great family show up to church, Airton and Leu. They are married! And a great family. He would be great friends with Del, reminds me a bit of him, which is awesome. We taught them the other day and they were super good, very excited. However, they do like to talk. A lot. They were both talking, at the same time, for most of the lesson. Its crazy! That's a situation that really pushes your language skills! I was grateful I was able to stay afloat there :) They are living here, but have a farm somewhere else that they go visit every once in a while, to take care of the horses, which I wanna visit, and they did invite us, so we'll see.
The Book of Mormon Lady didn't come to church, which I was really sad about. But the work moves on!
This other lady is Lucia. She is about 45, and all of her kids are members, I think. We found her in the address book. We taught her the second lesson, and then I invited her to be baptized. Worst invite I've ever done! I couldn't get the words out right, and I couldn't think. It was weird, and rather annoying. But then she accepted! Then, when I did a division with the LZ, I told them about it. He was shocked! He said she had been invited to be baptized loads of times, and had been an investigator for a long time. She had never even thought about baptism, just quickly answered no! I am glad I didn't know that.
I heard a quote once that said missionaries are capable of doing things they are not capable of doing, because they do not know they are not capable of doing them. Also really helped me learn that this is the Lords work, and even with the worst invite, he can touch the heart of a very stubborn woman. (She still is very stubborn, but also very ready to be baptized!).
Because we haven't had a ton of investigators to focus on, I have had a lot of time to think about improving myself as a missionary, to better help the people here. I have been loving the scriptures, and at times become a lil sad with the short amount of study time I have now that my companion wants to do comp study ;) I was really loving that load of personal study time, but I am also loving comp study, and I am learning a ton from this kid!
I, too, Mom have been thinking a lot about prayer this week! I have really been trying to pray more, even though this transfer isn't as hard. I am really impressed by the power of prayer, and how it can help me out in all situations, and let me feel the love of my Heavenly Father. Prayer is the greatest thing ever! haha! I am super grateful for that, and being able to pray always, even if just to say a quick prayer thankin the Lord for my blessings!
I'll call this week with info on the call!]
Love ya
Elder Jake!
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Life in Praia Grande
Hey yo's!
April has indeed FLOWN by. Way fast, way fast. I am glad you got the letter from Snakezao, whatever her name is. She is pretty crazy, her room is full of pictures of missionaries! I have no idea which picture she sent you, she took a lot! [Elder Jake's dad received an email with photos from a single young female in Elder's Jake's ward.] And now you know why she has your address, and not mine :) I am learning a lot of tricks to avoid awkward situations, for example, the thumbs up acts as a nice sheild for those who like to stand too close in pictures haha. N idea who the people are in the pixs, it was taking at a ward activity!
So this week has been good. The work here is really slow because of the way the city is, being a vacation spot. But it is good, I am having fun, and we are getting moving! Conference was really good, I loved it actually. Elder Costa from the 70 spoke to us, and I really loved hearing from him. Was great.
All of our investigators that we have have problems with not being married, or something worse. So its not moving too quickly. But we found one family who is married! We taught the first lesson, and it went really well. They were very accepting, and seemed golden. So, we went back to teach them about the BOM, as we ran out of time the previous appointment. She was waitnig at the door and told us she didn't want us to come in, or to to hear the messages any more. I got her to let us in to speak real quickly, but she stood at the door, with her hand on the door, not willing to shut it. Very clear we needed to be fast. So we taught her about the BoM and invited her to read it. She said she would and would pray about it. IF she got an answer, she and her family will go to church, and later be baptized. If not, she would not come to church, and we are not welcome back. So we are fasting and just waiting til Sunday to find out... The family is so good! I hope Fancisco and Neide can pull through!
Yes, we do look super German. Everyone keeps asking us if we are twins as well! So, we are in Ala Praia Grande, it is one of 4 wards in praia grande I think. One of them is a branch. We live in the area of the branch, but we arent the missionaries there. Elder Faria and Elder Perry, who live with us are. So we have the priviledge and honor to walk to our area every day. Our area is HUGE. And we can't take the bus cause we dont have money sufficeint! So we walk a lot, and really far. So Avenida Kennedy has been in every area I've passed, I think. Haha, not sure why, but yes, from what I've heard it is from John F. I don't know my street address! I'll find out later!
The ward here seems pretty helpful. and has the craziest characters ever! The 2nd counselor, Jeff, is the number one fighter on "Street Fighter 4" XBOX live, in THE WORLD. Thats super random. Also one thing I love a ton here in Brazuil. is that you always call people by their first names. It is freaking cool. Something I'm gonna wanna keep up ;)
This area is alot diferent because it is so populated with apartment buildings, nice ones too! And a lot of them are time share, so no one lives there! which makes finding really hard.
Money to eat healthy? You're joking right? I have NO MONEY! Luckily I had saved excess from other areas where we didn't have to take the bus, but here that is not the case. I eat one meal a day, and I eat a lot. Just the lunch the members give us, cause we dont have money for others. If I remember correctly, this is the same diet as a professional sumo wrestler. One huge meal per day. But for now, I think my weight is staying the same. I ahve been running a lot with Elder Finlinson, which is freaking amazing. However, the Bishop did just give us over 100 hot dogs left over from something the other day. I am so sick of hot dogs! but I am currently health problem free. I hope...
Mother's Day call, no clue. Ill figure stuff out and let ya know! But, of course, I'm gonna wanna talk to Ross and Katie some how! I think you guys call me though.
Mom- thanks for the great letter, and for everything! I love you!
J! You passed the sacrament! That's way sweet! And camping! How was that? Have fun at outdoor school! Let me know how it goes!
W-Did you have fun at the pinewood?! I liked the pictures, your car was sweet! Also imminent is an excellent word choice, no matter what other people say! [On Sunday am, This am, A and W were playing together. Then W yells from the other room, "Mom, A's making imminent threats." S cracked up and said, "W, do you have any idea what that means?"]
Razors, slash a new razor itself. Mine broke. So a razor, with a bunch of replacement heads. They are super spendy here. Hmmm socks, not ankle one, but not crew. Inbetweeners haha, for the heat. I hate long socks with all of my heart. the lowcut socks though some times get weird looks from the ward. Peanut butter, reeses, energy bars? haha I dunno what else. I need shirts, but it may be easier to buy those here. My clothes are ridiculously huge. Mais para frente I'm gonna need another pair of shoes and garmets, but more like at one year, so no worries. Hmmm not sure
Well. love ya all!
Elder Jake
April has indeed FLOWN by. Way fast, way fast. I am glad you got the letter from Snakezao, whatever her name is. She is pretty crazy, her room is full of pictures of missionaries! I have no idea which picture she sent you, she took a lot! [Elder Jake's dad received an email with photos from a single young female in Elder's Jake's ward.] And now you know why she has your address, and not mine :) I am learning a lot of tricks to avoid awkward situations, for example, the thumbs up acts as a nice sheild for those who like to stand too close in pictures haha. N idea who the people are in the pixs, it was taking at a ward activity!
So this week has been good. The work here is really slow because of the way the city is, being a vacation spot. But it is good, I am having fun, and we are getting moving! Conference was really good, I loved it actually. Elder Costa from the 70 spoke to us, and I really loved hearing from him. Was great.
All of our investigators that we have have problems with not being married, or something worse. So its not moving too quickly. But we found one family who is married! We taught the first lesson, and it went really well. They were very accepting, and seemed golden. So, we went back to teach them about the BOM, as we ran out of time the previous appointment. She was waitnig at the door and told us she didn't want us to come in, or to to hear the messages any more. I got her to let us in to speak real quickly, but she stood at the door, with her hand on the door, not willing to shut it. Very clear we needed to be fast. So we taught her about the BoM and invited her to read it. She said she would and would pray about it. IF she got an answer, she and her family will go to church, and later be baptized. If not, she would not come to church, and we are not welcome back. So we are fasting and just waiting til Sunday to find out... The family is so good! I hope Fancisco and Neide can pull through!
Yes, we do look super German. Everyone keeps asking us if we are twins as well! So, we are in Ala Praia Grande, it is one of 4 wards in praia grande I think. One of them is a branch. We live in the area of the branch, but we arent the missionaries there. Elder Faria and Elder Perry, who live with us are. So we have the priviledge and honor to walk to our area every day. Our area is HUGE. And we can't take the bus cause we dont have money sufficeint! So we walk a lot, and really far. So Avenida Kennedy has been in every area I've passed, I think. Haha, not sure why, but yes, from what I've heard it is from John F. I don't know my street address! I'll find out later!
The ward here seems pretty helpful. and has the craziest characters ever! The 2nd counselor, Jeff, is the number one fighter on "Street Fighter 4" XBOX live, in THE WORLD. Thats super random. Also one thing I love a ton here in Brazuil. is that you always call people by their first names. It is freaking cool. Something I'm gonna wanna keep up ;)
This area is alot diferent because it is so populated with apartment buildings, nice ones too! And a lot of them are time share, so no one lives there! which makes finding really hard.
Money to eat healthy? You're joking right? I have NO MONEY! Luckily I had saved excess from other areas where we didn't have to take the bus, but here that is not the case. I eat one meal a day, and I eat a lot. Just the lunch the members give us, cause we dont have money for others. If I remember correctly, this is the same diet as a professional sumo wrestler. One huge meal per day. But for now, I think my weight is staying the same. I ahve been running a lot with Elder Finlinson, which is freaking amazing. However, the Bishop did just give us over 100 hot dogs left over from something the other day. I am so sick of hot dogs! but I am currently health problem free. I hope...
Mother's Day call, no clue. Ill figure stuff out and let ya know! But, of course, I'm gonna wanna talk to Ross and Katie some how! I think you guys call me though.
Mom- thanks for the great letter, and for everything! I love you!
J! You passed the sacrament! That's way sweet! And camping! How was that? Have fun at outdoor school! Let me know how it goes!
W-Did you have fun at the pinewood?! I liked the pictures, your car was sweet! Also imminent is an excellent word choice, no matter what other people say! [On Sunday am, This am, A and W were playing together. Then W yells from the other room, "Mom, A's making imminent threats." S cracked up and said, "W, do you have any idea what that means?"]
Razors, slash a new razor itself. Mine broke. So a razor, with a bunch of replacement heads. They are super spendy here. Hmmm socks, not ankle one, but not crew. Inbetweeners haha, for the heat. I hate long socks with all of my heart. the lowcut socks though some times get weird looks from the ward. Peanut butter, reeses, energy bars? haha I dunno what else. I need shirts, but it may be easier to buy those here. My clothes are ridiculously huge. Mais para frente I'm gonna need another pair of shoes and garmets, but more like at one year, so no worries. Hmmm not sure
Well. love ya all!
Elder Jake
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Praia Grande - new area
Hey Family!
This keyboard is horrible! ITs driving me crazy! But Ill do my best to get out what I can! MAybe I shoud just buy my own and carry it around.
This week wss good! I LOVE this area. It is so open! It is completely flat, and the tall buildings are spread apart, and you can see for miles! That is something that was not true about the other to areas, not even close. For the first time in a while I don't feel closterphobic ;). Okay, it wasn't that bad.
The beach is also amazing, super great to see that much space, it just goes on forever! The Atlanic Ocean is gorgeous. However, it does look lot like the pacific. Quite similiar bodies of water.
It is a bit hot here. Its winter here, and I am just really grateful I'm not in here in summer! but it isn't too bad at all. I really kind like the weather!
So this week we had to rest a bit. Elder Finlinson is officially free from dangee fever, however you spell that! So did I waste my time sitting around? of course not! I mastered the rubiks cube and did some sweet puzzles and read a bit too! Too bad J didn't make that juggling suggestion earlier, I would have picked that up! We have also listened to vast amout of classical, and church music!
The ward here is super receptive, super friendly! They love missionaries, a ton. They loved the Lzs who left a ton more though, so we got our work cut out! The biggest problem in this area is marriage. No one is married. We have a load of people that could be baptized, want to be, just missing marrige. But its kinda complicated here, still gotta find out more info on that. Also, our ward, and especially the neighboring branch, is mostly women. The young womens president has got to be the most important calling here, cause I swear that the ward is 50% young women!
Thats not entirely true, but there are a ton here. And they are scary. There is a big need for snake repellant here, haha.
But luckily, the Elders Quorum is really strong in the ward, and the ward itself is really strong. So we got some great friends already, families that relly take care of us!
Weve got some characters too. Big Red. Big Red is not his real name, but I don't remember his name. We call him that cause he loves red. His car, his hair is dyed racing-red, his church shoes are red, his socks, his glasses! I have seen him three times, both in and out of church and he is always wearing red shirts as well! No clue why. He's an odd one though. But we love him. I think I'm gonna ask him about it this week.
Crazy eyes. Also not his real name. But he is a really cool guy, who is really insane. He sat next to me at church and talked endlessly. About everything! So I went along with it. (We were in the way back because the chapel was packed! and he wasn't makn too much noise). He compared suit quality, and doctrine, greek, portuguese, english, and who knows what else! He is just big kid, a really loved talking to him. Although the bishopric warned me not to let investigators sit next to him. He has such a good heart, but is absolutely in his own lil world. We have a lot in common :). He is named Crazy Eyes because he randomly sits up stright, wide-eyed to look at the speaker. or the fan. or the lights. And he refuses to tell me his name!
But anyways, when we showed up here, the lovely zls left nothing in the area book. Nothing! So we started from scratch, and knocked doors a ton, when Elder Finlinson was all healthy again. They finally gave us some names and stuff yesterday, so we will go find em and see what we can do!
But Elder Finlinson is way tight. We already have so many inside joks, its not even funny. Im really glad he was sick, we got the chance to really get to know each other really well, right at the start. It is the greatest blessing to be workin with a friend. I am pumped about this transfer!
Well, Elder M Russel Ballard is coming to the mission this week! But I don't get to see him. Our area was excluded from this party cause its so expensive to get us all up in Sao Paulo. But I'm sure that our zone conference will be sweet anyways!
Well, I love you all, very much! Ran out of time again. This keyboard really cripled me today. But Congrats Mom on the award! I love you! My mom rocks! I am really proud, and absolutely agree that you should be included in that group!
W, you asked for twenty cookies! Excellent choice! J,you rock Write me an email boy! A! I love you! S, thanks again for th great letter! Sorry I didn't get back to ya, but I love hearing from you! You'll be first next week! :)
Love you all!
-Elder Jake
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Note to his dad:
Hey Pops!
I was going to send you a sweet voice recording of me speaking Portuguese,but this email doesnt hold that kind of video file, or so I'm told. So I am sorry!
But I am working very hard. Just like you would do if you were here again! President Richardson seems to really like me, he has told me, as well as my leaders in the mission, and in the stake I served in, and others, that he thinks I am an "exceptional missionary". This has much more to do about you and mom, and all the other people who have helped me in my life, than it does me. I owe it all to you guys, and your great example that I will ever be correndo atras!
Eu estou muito animado sobre meu novo companeiro, e minha area nov, mas vou flar mais sobre isso na carta para a familia!
Voce ouvio algum coisa sobre Harvey Unga? saindo os Cougars? Espero que nao!
Voce serviu qual anos? E porque eu nunca vi uma foto de sua missao? quero ver se voce tem!
Parabems on sua discourso na igreja! Estou feliz voce usou meu testemunhos! sei que foi muito bom, seus discoursos sempre sao!
E bem legal que J e um diacono! Queria estar la! Mas, tudo bem, estou feliz por ele!
Mas, tenho que escrver a famili, te amo!
-Elder Jake!
Note
This keyboard is horrible! ITs driving me crazy! But Ill do my best to get out what I can! MAybe I shoud just buy my own and carry it around.
This week wss good! I LOVE this area. It is so open! It is completely flat, and the tall buildings are spread apart, and you can see for miles! That is something that was not true about the other to areas, not even close. For the first time in a while I don't feel closterphobic ;). Okay, it wasn't that bad.
The beach is also amazing, super great to see that much space, it just goes on forever! The Atlanic Ocean is gorgeous. However, it does look lot like the pacific. Quite similiar bodies of water.
It is a bit hot here. Its winter here, and I am just really grateful I'm not in here in summer! but it isn't too bad at all. I really kind like the weather!
So this week we had to rest a bit. Elder Finlinson is officially free from dangee fever, however you spell that! So did I waste my time sitting around? of course not! I mastered the rubiks cube and did some sweet puzzles and read a bit too! Too bad J didn't make that juggling suggestion earlier, I would have picked that up! We have also listened to vast amout of classical, and church music!
The ward here is super receptive, super friendly! They love missionaries, a ton. They loved the Lzs who left a ton more though, so we got our work cut out! The biggest problem in this area is marriage. No one is married. We have a load of people that could be baptized, want to be, just missing marrige. But its kinda complicated here, still gotta find out more info on that. Also, our ward, and especially the neighboring branch, is mostly women. The young womens president has got to be the most important calling here, cause I swear that the ward is 50% young women!
Thats not entirely true, but there are a ton here. And they are scary. There is a big need for snake repellant here, haha.
But luckily, the Elders Quorum is really strong in the ward, and the ward itself is really strong. So we got some great friends already, families that relly take care of us!
Weve got some characters too. Big Red. Big Red is not his real name, but I don't remember his name. We call him that cause he loves red. His car, his hair is dyed racing-red, his church shoes are red, his socks, his glasses! I have seen him three times, both in and out of church and he is always wearing red shirts as well! No clue why. He's an odd one though. But we love him. I think I'm gonna ask him about it this week.
Crazy eyes. Also not his real name. But he is a really cool guy, who is really insane. He sat next to me at church and talked endlessly. About everything! So I went along with it. (We were in the way back because the chapel was packed! and he wasn't makn too much noise). He compared suit quality, and doctrine, greek, portuguese, english, and who knows what else! He is just big kid, a really loved talking to him. Although the bishopric warned me not to let investigators sit next to him. He has such a good heart, but is absolutely in his own lil world. We have a lot in common :). He is named Crazy Eyes because he randomly sits up stright, wide-eyed to look at the speaker. or the fan. or the lights. And he refuses to tell me his name!
But anyways, when we showed up here, the lovely zls left nothing in the area book. Nothing! So we started from scratch, and knocked doors a ton, when Elder Finlinson was all healthy again. They finally gave us some names and stuff yesterday, so we will go find em and see what we can do!
But Elder Finlinson is way tight. We already have so many inside joks, its not even funny. Im really glad he was sick, we got the chance to really get to know each other really well, right at the start. It is the greatest blessing to be workin with a friend. I am pumped about this transfer!
Well, Elder M Russel Ballard is coming to the mission this week! But I don't get to see him. Our area was excluded from this party cause its so expensive to get us all up in Sao Paulo. But I'm sure that our zone conference will be sweet anyways!
Well, I love you all, very much! Ran out of time again. This keyboard really cripled me today. But Congrats Mom on the award! I love you! My mom rocks! I am really proud, and absolutely agree that you should be included in that group!
W, you asked for twenty cookies! Excellent choice! J,you rock Write me an email boy! A! I love you! S, thanks again for th great letter! Sorry I didn't get back to ya, but I love hearing from you! You'll be first next week! :)
Love you all!
-Elder Jake
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Note to his dad:
Hey Pops!
I was going to send you a sweet voice recording of me speaking Portuguese,but this email doesnt hold that kind of video file, or so I'm told. So I am sorry!
But I am working very hard. Just like you would do if you were here again! President Richardson seems to really like me, he has told me, as well as my leaders in the mission, and in the stake I served in, and others, that he thinks I am an "exceptional missionary". This has much more to do about you and mom, and all the other people who have helped me in my life, than it does me. I owe it all to you guys, and your great example that I will ever be correndo atras!
Eu estou muito animado sobre meu novo companeiro, e minha area nov, mas vou flar mais sobre isso na carta para a familia!
Voce ouvio algum coisa sobre Harvey Unga? saindo os Cougars? Espero que nao!
Voce serviu qual anos? E porque eu nunca vi uma foto de sua missao? quero ver se voce tem!
Parabems on sua discourso na igreja! Estou feliz voce usou meu testemunhos! sei que foi muito bom, seus discoursos sempre sao!
E bem legal que J e um diacono! Queria estar la! Mas, tudo bem, estou feliz por ele!
Mas, tenho que escrver a famili, te amo!
-Elder Jake!
Note
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Tranfers!
Hey Wonderful people!
Thanks for the great letters, as always, they gave me quite a nice jolt of love and enthusiasm!
So I do indeed know a lil touch about transfers. I left. I am far away from Diadema now, haha. I got tranferred to the Baixsada. (Not sure I've ever seen that word written. Might be spelled wrong. In fact I know that it is haha). Anyways, in our mission, there are three sections, ABC, Sao Paulo, and the Baixada. A lot of missionaries don't ever make it to all three, I'm entering my third today!
Anyways, a lil about my new situation . . . My new companion is Elder Finnilson, (hope thats right) from Payson Utah! He looks like Ross, kinda, or at least like we could be related. He's the same height, blond hair, blue eyes and yeah, we'll get a lot of German jokes out here. He is a way cool guy. I can already tell we are gonna be good friends. He has about eight months on the mission, and yeah, I dunno what else. Just seems way fly, and is always happy. Ever when he has dangee fever, which he currently has, haha, so we may spend a little time indoors recouperating.
But we are opening this area, or whitewashing it as it is called in the english world. I have no idea what its like, but from what I hear the ward is super good! So I am pretty pumped.
So the beach is in our area, or more, the beach IS our area haha, its right on the beach. Pria Grande. It is WAY flat, exact opposite of the ginormous hills of Diadema (the stake I was in before). This place reminds me of Kingsburg, not really sure why yet, but I feel so comfortable, so happy here already.
The drive here was about an hour and a half on the charter bus, which was AMAZING. Air conditioned, CLEAN, didn't smell bad, hahaha. And the views were amazing, some of the most beautiful views I've seen in my life. Here it isn't as beautiful as the drive, but that;s alright. I am super pumped to be here, with a new adventure ahead.
PS its hot here, where as in Diadema, I was busting out the sweater every day, it got down to a freezing 60 all day haha. I'm so weak now. That used to be perfect.
So, my last week with Elder Rocha had its ups and downs, but the last few days were really good. I saw some really big changes in him, and in me as well. But the last family home eveing we did, with Tiago and his group of friends, went really well. Elder Rocha started to cry. This is not a man that has ever shown any emotion like that at all . . . ever. I was really touched, and suddenly, everything I went through with him was worth it. He apoligized for the things he did, and said. Every bad feeling I had ever had for him vanished. It was a really great way to end a really hard two tranfers. I am really grateful for the times I had with him, as hard as they were.
Its a lot eaisier to say that now. Gotta work on that mind set more during the hard times, instead of just at the end. But hey, Im learning :)
Oh gloria. I have no time! Transfers are insane!
The chocolate eggs, of which I have eaten a ton, everyone seems to have extras, are actually pretty good. Some of them really good! They ain't German, but what can ya do. My eyes seem to be better, and my clothes are all good still, just big. And dirty, haha but I'm doin my best to take care of them!
I will have to write more next week, no time on tranfers! I gottta write dad!
Love you all!
Elder Jake!
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Wonderful Easter Weekend
Hey beloved people!
This week was grrrreat! I really enjoyed it! It was good. Let's start it out. So Tuesday, after I left the lan house, it hit me that Ross was gonna be a Dad! I couldn't stop smiling. That is so INSANE! I am going to be an uncle! There is a girl who always calls me uncle, probably cause she can't say my name. But she and I are good friends. (She's 6ish). Anyways, last Tuesday when she called me uncle, it felt REALLY wierd! Haha, this is nuts!
I told President about Ross and Katie having a kid in my interview. He was pretty excited for me! My interview with him on Wednesday was really good, I really enjoyed it, and he helped me out a ton. Helped me realize things I'm doing well, and things I can improve! I was really grateful for that. Was so pumped to get to work after that!
Well conference was amazing! I absolutely loved conference. We went to the stake center (my building) and we watched as a stake. Some people watch it on the internet, but not many people get it on TV, though some of the wealthier members do. Anyways, all the Elders from the stake went there and we had a littl party in the "Sala dos Gringos" ( the english room). We watched all 5 sessions there, they were live, we are 4 hours ahead of you guys so our preisthood session started at 9 pm! But it was way fun! It was all the Americans, a few Brazilian missionaries, and one or two members. It was a blast. I really enjoyed the talks too!
.JPG)
Saturday was a really english day. I did two divisions with Americans, one with Elder Guthrie, one with Elder Tyree. Elder Tyree and I taught english, and Elder Guthrie and I bought Subway. So good. Made my week. And then had 6 hours of english talks! It was crazy, but fun. I really liked the talks, there is definitely I difference in the way I look at conference. But I think it was Elder M Russel Ballard that said that the youth of today will lead the families and the church of tomorrow. Leading the church is one thing, but leading a family?! Thats nuts! I gotta step up my game to get ready for that! Maybe it was because of Ross and Katie that that seemed really real to me. Good thing I gotta a bit of time! Sunday was another great day of conference. Was really kinda sad when it was all over, I really loved that spirit/atmosphere. Although I was having a hard time sitting down during the last one, so its good we got to leave and get some work done!
Well, nothing super-exciting happend this week, but I really had fun. I can see the Lord making big changes in me, and for that I am really grateful, and really excited. I am really learning how to be a better person, and I am learning how to deal with challenges and stuff. It's about time, right? But it has been a good day today. The only thing is I haven't had any time to write any letters, which is always frustrating, but maybe I can sneak one out later on tonight!
Our Easter Egg - somewhat like a gigantic "Kinder-egg"
Close-up of the Easter egg
Easter! Almost forgot! Was pretty normal, no baskets or candy spread on my floor though. Most likely because of the cochroach problem. But a few sisters from the ward did give us some chocholate. Here, almost everyone gets these massive kinder-eggs with more candy onside. Its pretty fantastic. I got one! Pumped! 
W's homemade missionary plaque for Elder Jake.
He made it because the official one hadn't been ordered last Fall.
D- Hey, thank you so much for that letter! That letter got me through some really rough days. Sorry I haven't been writing as much as I should. I have been super busy, but you should get a letter any day now, and you got another on the way! I'm getting better at making time for letters, usually because of mad multi-tasking skills! So they will be coming more frequently from now on. The advice you give is priceless, just remember I am super grateful for all you taught me slash are still teaching me! but I'll write about that more in the next letter! 1 2 3 4!
This week was grrrreat! I really enjoyed it! It was good. Let's start it out. So Tuesday, after I left the lan house, it hit me that Ross was gonna be a Dad! I couldn't stop smiling. That is so INSANE! I am going to be an uncle! There is a girl who always calls me uncle, probably cause she can't say my name. But she and I are good friends. (She's 6ish). Anyways, last Tuesday when she called me uncle, it felt REALLY wierd! Haha, this is nuts!
I told President about Ross and Katie having a kid in my interview. He was pretty excited for me! My interview with him on Wednesday was really good, I really enjoyed it, and he helped me out a ton. Helped me realize things I'm doing well, and things I can improve! I was really grateful for that. Was so pumped to get to work after that!
Well conference was amazing! I absolutely loved conference. We went to the stake center (my building) and we watched as a stake. Some people watch it on the internet, but not many people get it on TV, though some of the wealthier members do. Anyways, all the Elders from the stake went there and we had a littl party in the "Sala dos Gringos" ( the english room). We watched all 5 sessions there, they were live, we are 4 hours ahead of you guys so our preisthood session started at 9 pm! But it was way fun! It was all the Americans, a few Brazilian missionaries, and one or two members. It was a blast. I really enjoyed the talks too!
.JPG)
Sala dos Gringos
Saturday was a really english day. I did two divisions with Americans, one with Elder Guthrie, one with Elder Tyree. Elder Tyree and I taught english, and Elder Guthrie and I bought Subway. So good. Made my week. And then had 6 hours of english talks! It was crazy, but fun. I really liked the talks, there is definitely I difference in the way I look at conference. But I think it was Elder M Russel Ballard that said that the youth of today will lead the families and the church of tomorrow. Leading the church is one thing, but leading a family?! Thats nuts! I gotta step up my game to get ready for that! Maybe it was because of Ross and Katie that that seemed really real to me. Good thing I gotta a bit of time! Sunday was another great day of conference. Was really kinda sad when it was all over, I really loved that spirit/atmosphere. Although I was having a hard time sitting down during the last one, so its good we got to leave and get some work done!
Love those Subway sandwiches!
Well, nothing super-exciting happend this week, but I really had fun. I can see the Lord making big changes in me, and for that I am really grateful, and really excited. I am really learning how to be a better person, and I am learning how to deal with challenges and stuff. It's about time, right? But it has been a good day today. The only thing is I haven't had any time to write any letters, which is always frustrating, but maybe I can sneak one out later on tonight!
Our Easter Egg - somewhat like a gigantic "Kinder-egg"
Close-up of the Easter eggEaster! Almost forgot! Was pretty normal, no baskets or candy spread on my floor though. Most likely because of the cochroach problem. But a few sisters from the ward did give us some chocholate. Here, almost everyone gets these massive kinder-eggs with more candy onside. Its pretty fantastic. I got one! Pumped!
I think maybe my vision might be going. I have been reading a ton, way more than ever before, and I've had a head ache for a while now. But I'm just gonna pray that goes away and that its just cause I need to drink more water, which I shall do.
Mom- I love you, sorry I have been leaving out these little bits. Quote? [I had asked for a quote I often said for an event later this month.] You have said a lot of really wonderful things, and helped me a lot. For me, you have always been there. The words I don't remember, but the fact that you were there, and I could talk to you. I will never forget. I will never forget some of the hugs you gave me. Those hugs, perfectly timed, did more than any amount of words could ever do. I will think more about a specific quote and let you know next week!
S - You are in the musical! Congrats! Thats way sweet! I will try to get to your email from last week, but as always, I'm rushed. Maybe I'm just a really slow typer. I dunno, I gotta fix this problem somehow...
J! Happy Birthday! How the heck are you? You are 12! You are gettin the preisthood! That is super excitng bro, you are going to dominate as a deacon. You will be an excellent deacon. What did you do for the birthday? Get anything sweet? Thanks for being such a great buddy! Did you like conference? I was looking for you guys, but I didn't see you! You gettin any bigger? How's the piano coming? What else you up to?
A - nice prank :) haha that is kinda funny! How is school? How is life? Thanks for being a great sister! You are cool [A's April 1st trick - On April 1st, after W went to bed, he came back spitting mad hollering that Ella (the cat) peed on his dalmation pillow. Five minutes, he is hollering, "that's not funny, A!". She had poured some water on W's pillow as a trick! After getting A to understand that she wasn't to do that again, I told it was a pretty fuuny prank!]
W- Thanks for picking up the slack with the clean-up eating. It's an important job, and someone has to do it! [W must be in a growth spurt. Though small, he is eating tons of food, even finishing S' dinner when we went out to eat.] Thanks for the sweet missionary plaque! Hope you hung it up in the church! I'd fix your spelling, but I dont remember. My English students taught me how to spell the word "15" the other day. And I already forgot! haha I'm losin it! And the sad part is I never had it...
W- Thanks for picking up the slack with the clean-up eating. It's an important job, and someone has to do it! [W must be in a growth spurt. Though small, he is eating tons of food, even finishing S' dinner when we went out to eat.] Thanks for the sweet missionary plaque! Hope you hung it up in the church! I'd fix your spelling, but I dont remember. My English students taught me how to spell the word "15" the other day. And I already forgot! haha I'm losin it! And the sad part is I never had it...
W's homemade missionary plaque for Elder Jake. He made it because the official one hadn't been ordered last Fall.
Ross and Katie- Congradulations again! I absolutely want to help pick the names. Ive got some good ones. Bolt, for a guy or girl. Or Zamuel, could call em Z. But were you guys sweating bullets when all they talked about was the importance of families at confernce? Or are you guys already completely prepared for that? I am a bit nervous for that moment in my life, and it is way, way down the road!
D- Hey, thank you so much for that letter! That letter got me through some really rough days. Sorry I haven't been writing as much as I should. I have been super busy, but you should get a letter any day now, and you got another on the way! I'm getting better at making time for letters, usually because of mad multi-tasking skills! So they will be coming more frequently from now on. The advice you give is priceless, just remember I am super grateful for all you taught me slash are still teaching me! but I'll write about that more in the next letter! 1 2 3 4!
Well, I love you all! Thanks for the great letters! Im gonna send some photos now!
-Elder Jake
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Jake's email(s) from March 30
This letter was split in multiple emails. And I felt handicapped by not having my computer. So here they are in one email. Maybe I was still stunned because our oldest son and his wife announced that they were going to be parents! I threatened Elder Jake to not use the "g-word" or I wouldn't send him any more peanut butter. Obviously, he doesn't listen very well -- never has!
Hello People!
Thanks for another great letter, Grandma! Its great to here from my mom and the wonderful insights she has to pass on to her children . . . and grandchildren!
This week has been a crazy one, that's for sure.The Lord has really been helping out a lot, and I'm really grateful for that and the prayers of all you great people!
First off, we had three baptisms! So sweet! Fabio, Thiago, and Suelen. Fabio´s wife was baptized the week we showed up, and we have been working with him ever since. He finally accepted the invitation to be baptized last week, about two hours before the baptism! Was a little rushed, but thats all good! He is a really good guy. He told me he was worried because now he had to do everything right. He didn't have excuses now. I told him that he did not have to be perfect, we haven't been asked to be perfect. We just got to do our part, and trust in the Lord.
Suelen was a gift from the Lord. One day she showed up at church. She is currently engaged to a missionary serving on the other side of the country. They dated for quite some time before his mission. But she said she finally wanted to hear the message, and we were able to teach her everything last two weeks and baptize her on Saturday as well. She was just super happy to be baptized. Just smiling and being pumped. She has a very surprising letter to write to her boyfriend this week. Hope he sits down for that one, shes never expressed intrest to him!
Thiago is a stud. He is about 26. Super great guy, has been dating slash engaged to a member for about two years. A few weeks ago I shared a message about the BoM with his girlfriend and about of other single adults with whom we ate. I had no idea he wasnt a member! But hes been STUDYING about the gospel. He had a list of questions for us. And basically, in answering his questions in that one lesson, we taught him EVERYTHING he needs to know to be baptized. That was the second lesson! He took us out to a NICE restauraunt after the baptism. He has been really a great friend to me, helping me order and stuff since I had no idea what anything was! Im used to rice and beans everyday! That man has taught ME an insane amout.
,+Thiago,+me.JPG)
1004 - Fabio, Elder Rocha, Suelen (that's her son Jefferson), Thiago, me, and Guilerme, a ward kid who asked me to baptize him! Fly kid! He LOVED the CTR ring, Mom. Thanks!
Hello People!
Thanks for another great letter, Grandma! Its great to here from my mom and the wonderful insights she has to pass on to her children . . . and grandchildren!
This week has been a crazy one, that's for sure.The Lord has really been helping out a lot, and I'm really grateful for that and the prayers of all you great people!
First off, we had three baptisms! So sweet! Fabio, Thiago, and Suelen. Fabio´s wife was baptized the week we showed up, and we have been working with him ever since. He finally accepted the invitation to be baptized last week, about two hours before the baptism! Was a little rushed, but thats all good! He is a really good guy. He told me he was worried because now he had to do everything right. He didn't have excuses now. I told him that he did not have to be perfect, we haven't been asked to be perfect. We just got to do our part, and trust in the Lord.
Suelen was a gift from the Lord. One day she showed up at church. She is currently engaged to a missionary serving on the other side of the country. They dated for quite some time before his mission. But she said she finally wanted to hear the message, and we were able to teach her everything last two weeks and baptize her on Saturday as well. She was just super happy to be baptized. Just smiling and being pumped. She has a very surprising letter to write to her boyfriend this week. Hope he sits down for that one, shes never expressed intrest to him!
Thiago is a stud. He is about 26. Super great guy, has been dating slash engaged to a member for about two years. A few weeks ago I shared a message about the BoM with his girlfriend and about of other single adults with whom we ate. I had no idea he wasnt a member! But hes been STUDYING about the gospel. He had a list of questions for us. And basically, in answering his questions in that one lesson, we taught him EVERYTHING he needs to know to be baptized. That was the second lesson! He took us out to a NICE restauraunt after the baptism. He has been really a great friend to me, helping me order and stuff since I had no idea what anything was! Im used to rice and beans everyday! That man has taught ME an insane amout.
,+Thiago,+me.JPG)
1004 - Fabio, Elder Rocha, Suelen (that's her son Jefferson), Thiago, me, and Guilerme, a ward kid who asked me to baptize him! Fly kid! He LOVED the CTR ring, Mom. Thanks!*******
P.S. I am SO PUMPED for confernce this week! We will get to watch it in English. Organ music makes me trunky haha its a really good sign that church stuff reminds me off home (Good job, Mom and Dad!) haha sorry this letter is so weird. I'm tryin to send pictures to you guys, but its not working. Hope you liked the captions Elder Guthrie wrote up last week. I had to send them on his comp.
P.S. I am SO PUMPED for confernce this week! We will get to watch it in English. Organ music makes me trunky haha its a really good sign that church stuff reminds me off home (Good job, Mom and Dad!) haha sorry this letter is so weird. I'm tryin to send pictures to you guys, but its not working. Hope you liked the captions Elder Guthrie wrote up last week. I had to send them on his comp.
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Anyways... i spoke with the elders of Alex's mission, but I haven't heard anything else yet. I am indeed planning on burning a tie. It should be great! It'll be the first day of next transfer! This transfer is only 5 weeks, instead of the normal 6 because it gets the Americans out of there a few weeks early. (Americans go home two weeks before the 2 year mark). Just cause of the visa issue.
Anyways... i spoke with the elders of Alex's mission, but I haven't heard anything else yet. I am indeed planning on burning a tie. It should be great! It'll be the first day of next transfer! This transfer is only 5 weeks, instead of the normal 6 because it gets the Americans out of there a few weeks early. (Americans go home two weeks before the 2 year mark). Just cause of the visa issue.
6 months...Thats comin up fast. Crazy! Sounds like you guys are tearing up the house in a fantastic way!
I want pictures! And of the Mc house as well!
So time to go, love you all! -Elder Jake
This one didn't arrive until after the PS. I was a bit confused. Since I was on the computer, I quickly emailed him assuring I am still called MOM and asked if he meant to end the email so quickly. Below was his quick response.
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I love you too!! and I sent a second half, and a third, did ya get it? you guys are fantastic. Thanks for everything mom! sorry if the letter was a lil weird!
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I love you too!! and I sent a second half, and a third, did ya get it? you guys are fantastic. Thanks for everything mom! sorry if the letter was a lil weird!
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