Dear Friends & Family,
Yes, we were snow-bound on both Sunday and Monday. We attended church at 9:00 last Sunday, however, it dissmissed early in the middle because it was snowing really hard. The English ward cancelled. We started to resume our missionary work until the Bishop (whose family had a scheduled dinner appointment with us later in the evening anyway) invited us to eat early. He advised that we go home afterwards and wait. We were forwarded a text from up top that we were to return home. Virtually all of Sunday and all of Preparation Day was spent indoors (except for Monday-at which time we were permitted to commence, with careful driving, proselyting at 6:00). We did a lot of snow shoveling. We even got stuck in snow two nights ago (and couldn't get out until we were helped by two others). Quite humorous, I've taken photos of a lot of snow....I captured a photo with the cell phone (because I didn't have my camera at the time) of a van completely surrounded by snow on all sides. Yesterday, in the morning, we performed service by shoveling homes.
The President notified us that we could use our e-mailing time the following day, however, we didn't have sufficient time so we instead are e-mailing today. The roads are still quite bad, fortunately, the inclement weather has ceased (yes, I indeed like that previous sentence). We're fine too.
Monday, we either were shoveling out neighbors, making cell-phone calls (because we were banished from the cars-only reach places within walking distance), playing a long Monopoly game, or writing letters. I sent a letter the following day. It should therefore arrive before the weekend.
Yesterday was nuts when we were waiting in traffic at a Railroad Crossing in which had the pole down and the lights flashing for a long time awaiting the allegedly oncoming train. It didn't come. Cars and even pedestrians started to cross the barrier and the tracks anyway (this particular train travels at high speeds and MUCH more often than our trains near my home in Utah). I've even witnessed on many occassions this particular train speed by. It's therefore even more insane that these crazy New Yorkers insist instead of waiting in the traffic to cross. Some cars wouldn't and we had to turn around, however, everywhere we drove (because this is a major road) there were endless lines of bumper-to-bumper traffic. Yet an immense number of cars insisted that wherever they need to go was worth a little life-risk.
Anyway, I hope that you enjoyed your Merry Christmas and that you'll enjoy the New Year!!
Oh, also, there's a Long Island guidebook in our pad (house) which contains tourist destinations. Apparently, in the very same city we live in (Bayshore), is this old mansion which the British had used as a Headquarters and base of operations for the troops in the Colonies during the Revolutionary War. General Clinton lived there; and Long Island as well as New York remained occupied by the British Army until they withdrew at the end of the war. I don't recall the name of the Manor but I should send you the name sometime.
Appreciate the love that you've shared for me.
Love,
Elder Steven Roberts
A Picture is worth a thousand words
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Monday, December 20, 2010
Letter from 12-13-10
Dear Family & Friends,
Hey - How is everything going? I'm wearing my sweater vest at this very moment! (We had sent Steven's Christmas present - boots, vest and socks - looks like he opened them early! Which we told him he could if he needed the items before Christmas) Anyway, it's started snowing and the temperature has dropped significantly.
After my e-mail earlier this day, we did in deed go caroling and gave out some pass-along cards. ;D
Here is what I consider to be my first miracle!
We, for the first time, had decided to knock on doors as the four of us. We did compansionship changes and knocked on doors on opposite ends of the streets. We eventually drove to another street. No success. I was knocking with Elder Smith (who didn't speak Spanish - only Russian and English) and kind of hoping that we wouldn't encounter any Spanish speakers because I wanted the support of my fluid-speaking trainer. (So far, we encountered no Spanish speakers - only English).
Anyway, one door (our last) opened and stood a woman, her son had a back pack and he was standing next to his mother. She spoke only Spanish! Fortunately, my trainer and Elder Casperson approached the house just then. She introduced herself as Jasmine and invited us in while she waited for her son to board the school bus.
She returned to the four of us Elders in her living room. I'll explain more later, but in short: She asked the most inspired questions ever! They corresponded to the points in the first lesson. She explained that she hadn't baptized any of her three sons when they were babies because she thought that she should choose and that she didn't think that they needed baptism. We were surprised, shared Moroni (chapter 8) with her and continued...all points were covered in first lesson.
She understood Everything!
She has cancer and had prayed to God that very morning...she said that God answered her prayer! She knew that we had been sent by God to visit her.
She mentioned that the churches that she had visited had told her that her son that had died one day after birth would go to Hell. We told her that he's with God. She knows that all we had said was true. The Spirit was so strong!
She also mentioned that God hadn't stopped performing miracles because he's a God of miracles!
She accepted a Priesthood blessing. She has sooo much faith! We're going to return soon. My trainer and I were completely astounded and overjoyed subsequent to the lesson! It's difficult to explain everything on pen and paper...anyway...I've seen a miracle.
Love,
Elder Steven Roberts
P.S. I learned that God really has prepared some to receive the Gospel and that he actually answers prayers!
Hey - How is everything going? I'm wearing my sweater vest at this very moment! (We had sent Steven's Christmas present - boots, vest and socks - looks like he opened them early! Which we told him he could if he needed the items before Christmas) Anyway, it's started snowing and the temperature has dropped significantly.
After my e-mail earlier this day, we did in deed go caroling and gave out some pass-along cards. ;D
Here is what I consider to be my first miracle!
We, for the first time, had decided to knock on doors as the four of us. We did compansionship changes and knocked on doors on opposite ends of the streets. We eventually drove to another street. No success. I was knocking with Elder Smith (who didn't speak Spanish - only Russian and English) and kind of hoping that we wouldn't encounter any Spanish speakers because I wanted the support of my fluid-speaking trainer. (So far, we encountered no Spanish speakers - only English).
Anyway, one door (our last) opened and stood a woman, her son had a back pack and he was standing next to his mother. She spoke only Spanish! Fortunately, my trainer and Elder Casperson approached the house just then. She introduced herself as Jasmine and invited us in while she waited for her son to board the school bus.
She returned to the four of us Elders in her living room. I'll explain more later, but in short: She asked the most inspired questions ever! They corresponded to the points in the first lesson. She explained that she hadn't baptized any of her three sons when they were babies because she thought that she should choose and that she didn't think that they needed baptism. We were surprised, shared Moroni (chapter 8) with her and continued...all points were covered in first lesson.
She understood Everything!
She has cancer and had prayed to God that very morning...she said that God answered her prayer! She knew that we had been sent by God to visit her.
She mentioned that the churches that she had visited had told her that her son that had died one day after birth would go to Hell. We told her that he's with God. She knows that all we had said was true. The Spirit was so strong!
She also mentioned that God hadn't stopped performing miracles because he's a God of miracles!
She accepted a Priesthood blessing. She has sooo much faith! We're going to return soon. My trainer and I were completely astounded and overjoyed subsequent to the lesson! It's difficult to explain everything on pen and paper...anyway...I've seen a miracle.
Love,
Elder Steven Roberts
P.S. I learned that God really has prepared some to receive the Gospel and that he actually answers prayers!
Monday, December 13, 2010
PDay December 13, 2010
Dear Family & Friends:
It's been an eventful past week last week. Sad and happy. Javier, one of our investigators dropped us and it's been a little difficult. He thanked us for conversing with them about the word of God but felt that he was going to continue in the religion of his forefathers. Elder Griener and I performed service for our investigator, Eloy, and he took us out for some food. He's told the owner (a friend of his) of the 'supermercado' that whenever we come to purchase anything from them to place it on his account. Very generous of him! Afterwards, we were talking and then told him that we had to go to the chapel because we play basketball (yes, but I'm not very good) on Fridays. He had never heard of a basketball court (in spite of the fact that he had visited the church building before for church) in the church. He's really enthusiastic! He brought his nephew (who's not a member either) with us to play Basketball and decided that he would come every Friday (now we only need him to be more excited about attending church on Sundays)! His nephew agreed that we could teach him about who we are. Justo is excited to be baptized, however, can't yet until he and his Woman, Daisy, are married. Daisy isn't as enthusiastic as her boyfriend....but they're both the closest investigators that we have to entering that baptismal font. It's rained a lot! Only rain. The snow hasn't stayed on the ground. We're hoping for a White Christmas.
Thanks for the boots and the vest! It's wonderful! I appreciate it a lot! If I desired anything for Christmas, you know that it would be primarily books. However, I doubt that it's going to happen this year *sad face*. But, if there's still a little permittance, how about some cologne?
We didn't have sufficient time last P-day to spend on Fire Island (south of Bayshore-it's literally a very long island), but we're leaving today after lunch with the sisters. My Mission Mother, Sister Ball, dies tomorrow! I'm kind of sad. She's such an awesome missionary! She and her companion, Sister McEwen visited the Manhattan temple a few days ago for the final temple trip. This will be our final day with her. She's coming to the Fire Island Lighthouse with us.
Did I ever mention that sometimes, at first glance, we look like the 'Feds'. The church here is rather small, but it's growing! There are 173 missionaries in Long Island, 2 missionaries in Bermuda (soon, Elder Myers, will be transferred there-they informed him ahead of time), and I don't know how many are serving in Staten Island (but, one of the four missionaries who I live with, served there and enjoyed it-after all, it is one of the five New York City boroughs; three of the five our on our mission:Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island). Anyway, both the townships of Islip and Babylon (our town of Bayshore is located within the township of Islip) were founded a few decades apart in the 1600's.
Also, did you know that New York, New York South Mission receives more media referrals from non-members than any other mission in the world? It's our duty to find them and invite them to come to the Gospel (of course, we knock doors and talk to people, however, not as much as you would in the city). Okey dokey.
Until next time...
Elder Roberts
It's been an eventful past week last week. Sad and happy. Javier, one of our investigators dropped us and it's been a little difficult. He thanked us for conversing with them about the word of God but felt that he was going to continue in the religion of his forefathers. Elder Griener and I performed service for our investigator, Eloy, and he took us out for some food. He's told the owner (a friend of his) of the 'supermercado' that whenever we come to purchase anything from them to place it on his account. Very generous of him! Afterwards, we were talking and then told him that we had to go to the chapel because we play basketball (yes, but I'm not very good) on Fridays. He had never heard of a basketball court (in spite of the fact that he had visited the church building before for church) in the church. He's really enthusiastic! He brought his nephew (who's not a member either) with us to play Basketball and decided that he would come every Friday (now we only need him to be more excited about attending church on Sundays)! His nephew agreed that we could teach him about who we are. Justo is excited to be baptized, however, can't yet until he and his Woman, Daisy, are married. Daisy isn't as enthusiastic as her boyfriend....but they're both the closest investigators that we have to entering that baptismal font. It's rained a lot! Only rain. The snow hasn't stayed on the ground. We're hoping for a White Christmas.
Thanks for the boots and the vest! It's wonderful! I appreciate it a lot! If I desired anything for Christmas, you know that it would be primarily books. However, I doubt that it's going to happen this year *sad face*. But, if there's still a little permittance, how about some cologne?
We didn't have sufficient time last P-day to spend on Fire Island (south of Bayshore-it's literally a very long island), but we're leaving today after lunch with the sisters. My Mission Mother, Sister Ball, dies tomorrow! I'm kind of sad. She's such an awesome missionary! She and her companion, Sister McEwen visited the Manhattan temple a few days ago for the final temple trip. This will be our final day with her. She's coming to the Fire Island Lighthouse with us.
Did I ever mention that sometimes, at first glance, we look like the 'Feds'. The church here is rather small, but it's growing! There are 173 missionaries in Long Island, 2 missionaries in Bermuda (soon, Elder Myers, will be transferred there-they informed him ahead of time), and I don't know how many are serving in Staten Island (but, one of the four missionaries who I live with, served there and enjoyed it-after all, it is one of the five New York City boroughs; three of the five our on our mission:Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island). Anyway, both the townships of Islip and Babylon (our town of Bayshore is located within the township of Islip) were founded a few decades apart in the 1600's.
Also, did you know that New York, New York South Mission receives more media referrals from non-members than any other mission in the world? It's our duty to find them and invite them to come to the Gospel (of course, we knock doors and talk to people, however, not as much as you would in the city). Okey dokey.
Until next time...
Elder Roberts
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Letter from PDay 1-29-10
Dear Family & Friends,
How are you doing? I truly hope that this letter arrives on Friday for you. (It did!)
Anyway, I suppose that I'll tell you about our service project that we performed on Saturday. The English Elders (the two that we live with, you know :D) invited us to assist them in performing service. We met this older (70's) man living alone names Raymond. He embraced each of us when we arrived. We raked all of the leaves in his backyard (that was big!) and, afterwards, he wanted to take us to eat lunch.
He told us that he had never known anyone to have done anything so kind for free! We enjoyed talking with him...he's so funny and n ice. He has a son who's moved to California. He's house is also sooo close to the ocean that when we were raking leaves, we kept raking up sand!
Anyhow, I've enjoyed talking and meeting the new people we've teaching.
Elisabeth is a woman from El Salvador. We knocked her door by accident. We talked to her and set an appointment. When we arrived, we couldn't teach her because no man was home. We finally spoke to her for the first time since then. We taught her the first lesson. She's curious, especially because she had never before even heard of us (many don't).
The members are super supportive! Every night, except for P-Days, we're fed by members! They share everything with us.
For example, when a member was writing a number for me, on a sticky note, he then gave me the whole stack of sticky notes and insisted that I keep them.
However, we have to equally be p repared to share with them. It's completely diffferent with traditional New Yorkers.
Anyway, despite the fact that I'm not serving in the city, I'm really enjoying the people and church in Bayshore, New York.
Soon, we'll be going back to work at 6:00.
Next week, for P-Day, I really want to visit either Walt Whitman's birthplace (in my area)! Either that or the Fire Island Lighthouse.
My focus, is on the Lord's work. I've lived all my life with the comfort of the Gospel to answer life's most important questions; it's my duty to share it with the world!
I love you all!
Love, Elder Roberts
How are you doing? I truly hope that this letter arrives on Friday for you. (It did!)
Anyway, I suppose that I'll tell you about our service project that we performed on Saturday. The English Elders (the two that we live with, you know :D) invited us to assist them in performing service. We met this older (70's) man living alone names Raymond. He embraced each of us when we arrived. We raked all of the leaves in his backyard (that was big!) and, afterwards, he wanted to take us to eat lunch.
He told us that he had never known anyone to have done anything so kind for free! We enjoyed talking with him...he's so funny and n ice. He has a son who's moved to California. He's house is also sooo close to the ocean that when we were raking leaves, we kept raking up sand!
Anyhow, I've enjoyed talking and meeting the new people we've teaching.
Elisabeth is a woman from El Salvador. We knocked her door by accident. We talked to her and set an appointment. When we arrived, we couldn't teach her because no man was home. We finally spoke to her for the first time since then. We taught her the first lesson. She's curious, especially because she had never before even heard of us (many don't).
The members are super supportive! Every night, except for P-Days, we're fed by members! They share everything with us.
For example, when a member was writing a number for me, on a sticky note, he then gave me the whole stack of sticky notes and insisted that I keep them.
However, we have to equally be p repared to share with them. It's completely diffferent with traditional New Yorkers.
Anyway, despite the fact that I'm not serving in the city, I'm really enjoying the people and church in Bayshore, New York.
Soon, we'll be going back to work at 6:00.
Next week, for P-Day, I really want to visit either Walt Whitman's birthplace (in my area)! Either that or the Fire Island Lighthouse.
My focus, is on the Lord's work. I've lived all my life with the comfort of the Gospel to answer life's most important questions; it's my duty to share it with the world!
I love you all!
Love, Elder Roberts
PDay Letter Written 11/21/2010
It turns out that the mailman only delivers where Steven is - he doesn't pick up mail. It took Steven a week to get to the mailbox so we received both letters from 11-21-2010 and 11-29-2010 on Friday, December 3rd. Sounds like he is doing great!
"Dear Family & Friends,
How are you all doing? How's school? Work? What's the recent news or happenings?
I'm anticipating going to New York City tomorrow! It's been almost exactly two weeks from tomorrow since I was.
Earlier was exhausting for me because we had woken up so early this morning. Hopefully, next month I'll budget somewhat more carefully because I have $5 for the remainder of the month. Fortunately, I won't starve because the members here are extremely generous.
I've noticed that New Yorkers are very impersonal, but when you 'thank' them, they never fail to respond nicely.
Hmmm...Well, I don't exactly know what I desire for Christmas but I'll think about it and respond next week. Hmmm...I don't know. Thanks...what's contained in the small gift?"
Because this week's e-mail was considerably long, I don't know whether I had finished answering all the questions that you had.
I hope I had resolved all that you had questions on.
How do you want me to send you photos?
Love you!
Elder Steven Roberts
"Dear Family & Friends,
How are you all doing? How's school? Work? What's the recent news or happenings?
I'm anticipating going to New York City tomorrow! It's been almost exactly two weeks from tomorrow since I was.
Earlier was exhausting for me because we had woken up so early this morning. Hopefully, next month I'll budget somewhat more carefully because I have $5 for the remainder of the month. Fortunately, I won't starve because the members here are extremely generous.
I've noticed that New Yorkers are very impersonal, but when you 'thank' them, they never fail to respond nicely.
Hmmm...Well, I don't exactly know what I desire for Christmas but I'll think about it and respond next week. Hmmm...I don't know. Thanks...what's contained in the small gift?"
Because this week's e-mail was considerably long, I don't know whether I had finished answering all the questions that you had.
I hope I had resolved all that you had questions on.
How do you want me to send you photos?
Love you!
Elder Steven Roberts
Monday, November 29, 2010
PDay 11/29/2010
Thanksgiving was nice. It sort of was a day off (and not) for us because we've been encouraged not to worry about knocking doors or contacting on Thanksgiving because of people visiting family. We ate lunch and dinner while visiting members' homes.
The weather is frigid but not snowy yet at all. It has rained, however, so far this week, it's been rather clear. This morning, it's perhaps 40's. The wind and the wetness contributes to making it feel more cold than it actually is.
Grandma's package hasn't yet arrived. I'll be expecting it. The issue concerning the letter sending has been the fact that the mail men here don't pick up mail from the mail boxes-only leaves them (defeats the purpose of having a flag... :( ). We have to either deliver it to a mail carrier or to the post office (even the mail carrier at the post office has graffitti on it). I'll try to drop my letter off today or tomorrow.
This previous week has been the most productive. We achieved three new investigators! All three appear to be IDEAL future baptisms. We're still trying to resolve everything with one investigator. We asked if we would follow Christ's example and be baptized with the right authority from God. He's not sure. Pray for him.
When we had visited another investigatorr, he was quite hospitable and kind but told us that he stopped reading (and he was making significant progress before) the Book of Mormon when he told us that he didn't agree with Nephi slicing off his brother's own head. We explained to him that Nephi killed Laban, not Laman; and read with him the chapter. We also explained the reason why much more clearer. He's reassured and is progressing again.
Love,
Elder Roberts
The weather is frigid but not snowy yet at all. It has rained, however, so far this week, it's been rather clear. This morning, it's perhaps 40's. The wind and the wetness contributes to making it feel more cold than it actually is.
Grandma's package hasn't yet arrived. I'll be expecting it. The issue concerning the letter sending has been the fact that the mail men here don't pick up mail from the mail boxes-only leaves them (defeats the purpose of having a flag... :( ). We have to either deliver it to a mail carrier or to the post office (even the mail carrier at the post office has graffitti on it). I'll try to drop my letter off today or tomorrow.
This previous week has been the most productive. We achieved three new investigators! All three appear to be IDEAL future baptisms. We're still trying to resolve everything with one investigator. We asked if we would follow Christ's example and be baptized with the right authority from God. He's not sure. Pray for him.
When we had visited another investigatorr, he was quite hospitable and kind but told us that he stopped reading (and he was making significant progress before) the Book of Mormon when he told us that he didn't agree with Nephi slicing off his brother's own head. We explained to him that Nephi killed Laban, not Laman; and read with him the chapter. We also explained the reason why much more clearer. He's reassured and is progressing again.
Love,
Elder Roberts
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
PDay 11-22-2010 email
Hello all,
How are you doing? Anyway, last week, the sisters and us (in our district) decided to travel to Montauk Point! Montauk Point is rather far from our area, however; so we left at 4:15 am (sharp) this morning. It's the point farthest East of Long Island (at the very tip). President Nelson approved of it (and it's also our personal time) as well. This morning was frigid and we had to bring warm clothes to watch the Sunrise. It was only the eight of us missionaries who decided to go. We had a blast! We took many photos at the lighthouse and on the precarious rocks. We even saw Seals!! I need to figure a way to send you the photos before I'm out of memory on my camera! We even drove through the Hamptons en route to Montauk. The drive was scenic during the day...and not when we were so drowsy at 4:15. Lots of forest.
Because my companion is District Leader, we're driving to a Leaders' Meeting tomorrow in Queens! More photo opportunities! I've been up and down Long Island! One Elder that I had met, however, is going to be transferred to the British possession of Bermuda! He'll be there all Winter!
There are the cutest Squirrels everywhere...even in the suburbs. We have a family of Squirrels which inhabit the trees surrounding our shack. I've seen on a hundred occasions two squirrels together, however, a few days ago saw four on the grass in front of our home.
I met the Mercado family last night. They served us dinner. Their friend, whom they had brought, is named Jack the Pirate. The reason for this being that he wears an eye-patch. He lost his eye when he was shot at the age of eight. He's experienced a lot of hardship and it was a good experience talking with him. Their family, however, speaks English (unlike virtually of the families with which we've affiliated) and have the most typical New Yorker accents ever! I've never met a more 'Red Personality' family in my life! It's silly to listen to New Yorkers (the English-Speakers) converse. It's been a fantastic experience serving and learning.
Down the corner is a place that sells 5 Lobsters for $30! The restaurants and grocery stores here are also different. I have yet to encounter Wal-Mart, Chevron, Holiday, Smith's, you know, all the typical stores that you see daily in Utah. I have seen a Target though.
This week has been a little slow, unfortunately because my companion contracted a Fever. I let him borrow the thermoneter that you (mom) had bought for me! I'm well supplied by my loving mother :)! He had a fever of 102.5 degrees and was bed-ridden for three full days. Two nights ago, Elder Smith and I gave my companion a blessing. The next morning his fever had dropped to 98.9 degrees. We really must visit our investigators now! We pray and anticipate to baptize two of them by next month. The others are all awaiting papers so that they can be married.
My history question of the week:
Anyway, I appreciated your letters!! Thanks for sending me cookies. I haven't yet received them but I'm excited! Love you! I'll try my best. God be with you! I'll send a letter!
Love,
Steven
How are you doing? Anyway, last week, the sisters and us (in our district) decided to travel to Montauk Point! Montauk Point is rather far from our area, however; so we left at 4:15 am (sharp) this morning. It's the point farthest East of Long Island (at the very tip). President Nelson approved of it (and it's also our personal time) as well. This morning was frigid and we had to bring warm clothes to watch the Sunrise. It was only the eight of us missionaries who decided to go. We had a blast! We took many photos at the lighthouse and on the precarious rocks. We even saw Seals!! I need to figure a way to send you the photos before I'm out of memory on my camera! We even drove through the Hamptons en route to Montauk. The drive was scenic during the day...and not when we were so drowsy at 4:15. Lots of forest.
Because my companion is District Leader, we're driving to a Leaders' Meeting tomorrow in Queens! More photo opportunities! I've been up and down Long Island! One Elder that I had met, however, is going to be transferred to the British possession of Bermuda! He'll be there all Winter!
There are the cutest Squirrels everywhere...even in the suburbs. We have a family of Squirrels which inhabit the trees surrounding our shack. I've seen on a hundred occasions two squirrels together, however, a few days ago saw four on the grass in front of our home.
I met the Mercado family last night. They served us dinner. Their friend, whom they had brought, is named Jack the Pirate. The reason for this being that he wears an eye-patch. He lost his eye when he was shot at the age of eight. He's experienced a lot of hardship and it was a good experience talking with him. Their family, however, speaks English (unlike virtually of the families with which we've affiliated) and have the most typical New Yorker accents ever! I've never met a more 'Red Personality' family in my life! It's silly to listen to New Yorkers (the English-Speakers) converse. It's been a fantastic experience serving and learning.
Down the corner is a place that sells 5 Lobsters for $30! The restaurants and grocery stores here are also different. I have yet to encounter Wal-Mart, Chevron, Holiday, Smith's, you know, all the typical stores that you see daily in Utah. I have seen a Target though.
This week has been a little slow, unfortunately because my companion contracted a Fever. I let him borrow the thermoneter that you (mom) had bought for me! I'm well supplied by my loving mother :)! He had a fever of 102.5 degrees and was bed-ridden for three full days. Two nights ago, Elder Smith and I gave my companion a blessing. The next morning his fever had dropped to 98.9 degrees. We really must visit our investigators now! We pray and anticipate to baptize two of them by next month. The others are all awaiting papers so that they can be married.
My history question of the week:
Anyway, I appreciated your letters!! Thanks for sending me cookies. I haven't yet received them but I'm excited! Love you! I'll try my best. God be with you! I'll send a letter!
Love,
Steven
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Letter from PDay 11-15-10
Hey Family (& Friends),
Ummmm... how's everyone? I need to discover a way to send photos to everyone. Anyway, I forgot to mention Justo and Daisy. They are another family that we're teaching.
Only a few days ago, we met Erich (yes, that's how his name is spelled).
Hmmm...I forgot to describe the peculiar condition of our house: My house is the smallestm most ghetto house on Long Island. There are 8 missionaries serving the Brentwood and other coastline towns area. Four of the 8 missionaries consist of sister missionaries. Two of them are Spanish speaking (companionship), the other companionship is the two English-speaking sisters.
Of the four of us Elders, two of us are Spanish speaking (my companion and I) and two others are English speaking.
One Elder and One sister are Russian speaking (Sister Mamon is actually from Russia).
If you traveled to Queens, especially this area called Flushing) or Brooklyn, you would see more diversity and greater numbers of missionaries.
In our conference in Queens, on my second day, we met missionaries speaking Chinese, Korean, ASL, English, Spanish and Cantonese.
The four of us Brentwood elders live in the same house. It's more or less a shack. It's rooms are utterly small. The living room also has our bunk beds (all together), a couch and a table. There are two study rooms on the second floor.
The study room of our other companionship stands directly above the bunk beds of the living room. The ceiling is cracked down through the very center of the living room. The landlord assures us that it shouldn't collapse (we hope that he 's correct for our sakes). If it collapses, our beds will be directly under it.
The kitchen has a stove, refrigerator, sink and tiny under-the stairs pantry.
The bathroom door doesn't lock...and barely even closes. The water heater stands rather close to the toilet.
It's wonderful, however. There are gigantic trees near the house with squirrels in it. I took photos. I know that two squirrels inhabit the tree near our front door. Sometimes, they'll climb on to the shingles of our house during study time.
It's often really frightening to speak to people, however, it depends. My trainer is accustomed to accosting people and talking to them.
I finally had the enjoyment of eating New York pizza! The ocean isn't very far. I saw the boats docked in Babylon.
We drive our own car, as a companionship. That's nice because we can establish our own route and aren't dependant upon buses or subway (in Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island). We've been lost a lot, however, my trainer's only been in Brentwood and Bayshore for six weeks. He only has eight months remaining before the end of his mission.
Anyway, thanks for the support!
Love, Elder Roberts
Ummmm... how's everyone? I need to discover a way to send photos to everyone. Anyway, I forgot to mention Justo and Daisy. They are another family that we're teaching.
Only a few days ago, we met Erich (yes, that's how his name is spelled).
Hmmm...I forgot to describe the peculiar condition of our house: My house is the smallestm most ghetto house on Long Island. There are 8 missionaries serving the Brentwood and other coastline towns area. Four of the 8 missionaries consist of sister missionaries. Two of them are Spanish speaking (companionship), the other companionship is the two English-speaking sisters.
Of the four of us Elders, two of us are Spanish speaking (my companion and I) and two others are English speaking.
One Elder and One sister are Russian speaking (Sister Mamon is actually from Russia).
If you traveled to Queens, especially this area called Flushing) or Brooklyn, you would see more diversity and greater numbers of missionaries.
In our conference in Queens, on my second day, we met missionaries speaking Chinese, Korean, ASL, English, Spanish and Cantonese.
The four of us Brentwood elders live in the same house. It's more or less a shack. It's rooms are utterly small. The living room also has our bunk beds (all together), a couch and a table. There are two study rooms on the second floor.
The study room of our other companionship stands directly above the bunk beds of the living room. The ceiling is cracked down through the very center of the living room. The landlord assures us that it shouldn't collapse (we hope that he 's correct for our sakes). If it collapses, our beds will be directly under it.
The kitchen has a stove, refrigerator, sink and tiny under-the stairs pantry.
The bathroom door doesn't lock...and barely even closes. The water heater stands rather close to the toilet.
It's wonderful, however. There are gigantic trees near the house with squirrels in it. I took photos. I know that two squirrels inhabit the tree near our front door. Sometimes, they'll climb on to the shingles of our house during study time.
It's often really frightening to speak to people, however, it depends. My trainer is accustomed to accosting people and talking to them.
I finally had the enjoyment of eating New York pizza! The ocean isn't very far. I saw the boats docked in Babylon.
We drive our own car, as a companionship. That's nice because we can establish our own route and aren't dependant upon buses or subway (in Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island). We've been lost a lot, however, my trainer's only been in Brentwood and Bayshore for six weeks. He only has eight months remaining before the end of his mission.
Anyway, thanks for the support!
Love, Elder Roberts
Monday, November 15, 2010
PDay 11/17/2010 from New York
I saw Manhattan...from a distance...but it's sooooooo cooooool!!!!!!! Queens is a little frightening (and I had never truly seen bars on the windows of one of our churches before. There were buildings everywhere. The moment that we had stepped out of the airport building...I immediately saw cabs everywhere...I felt, at first, as if I had landed in Manhattan (however, I wasn't). Also, even in the airport, I felt that I had stepped into a movie whose setting would be in New York because of all the black policemen and white or Jewish businessmen. Crazy!!!!!!! Anyway, I met my trainer (or dad) in Queens. My residence is located in Bayshore (but the area covers Brentwood, Babylon, and other cities). The area that we are proselyting in is much more open than in the heart of New York City. It's really still small. It's an area that has a lot of forest in some parts. There are trees everywhere.
English-speaking people speak with a distinct New York accent that you usually don't hear except for in the movies.
The people are so incredibly humble....
Here's one example:
We were searching up a referral one night....we approached the front of a home in a scary neighborhood with lots of scary trees....we knocked on the door and almost immediately it opened and a black woman and her husband were leaving to go someplace. We asked if Nancy lived there. They said that we should check the basement door. We moved to the side of this little home. Again, we knocked and a Hispanic woman answered. She wasn't Nancy
either. She said that we could check the other door! How many families lived in this single small home?! They're so receptive in some cases, however. We actually have an appointment with the other woman though. We haven't had a lot of success YET, except with the families that we're already teaching.
Ortega Family: Javier is the head of the household. He's one of the founders of the American Martial Arts Association. He said that he can show us some moves.
He's reading in the Book of Mormon. He's from Panama.
Our other investigator is a fifteen-year-old boy named Erlin. His family doesn't want to listen to us, however, he accepts the lessons. His best friend left to serve a mission in Guatemala last week! He's really friendly and has a lot to learn. I can't understand his accent very well because a Dominican accent is really fast, choppy, and there are few s's pronounced. Elder Griener and I have enjoyed teaching him. He trusts us a lot.
Anyway, I love you! I'll tell you more later in a letter.
Love,
Elder Roberts. :)
English-speaking people speak with a distinct New York accent that you usually don't hear except for in the movies.
The people are so incredibly humble....
Here's one example:
We were searching up a referral one night....we approached the front of a home in a scary neighborhood with lots of scary trees....we knocked on the door and almost immediately it opened and a black woman and her husband were leaving to go someplace. We asked if Nancy lived there. They said that we should check the basement door. We moved to the side of this little home. Again, we knocked and a Hispanic woman answered. She wasn't Nancy
either. She said that we could check the other door! How many families lived in this single small home?! They're so receptive in some cases, however. We actually have an appointment with the other woman though. We haven't had a lot of success YET, except with the families that we're already teaching.
Ortega Family: Javier is the head of the household. He's one of the founders of the American Martial Arts Association. He said that he can show us some moves.
He's reading in the Book of Mormon. He's from Panama.
Our other investigator is a fifteen-year-old boy named Erlin. His family doesn't want to listen to us, however, he accepts the lessons. His best friend left to serve a mission in Guatemala last week! He's really friendly and has a lot to learn. I can't understand his accent very well because a Dominican accent is really fast, choppy, and there are few s's pronounced. Elder Griener and I have enjoyed teaching him. He trusts us a lot.
Anyway, I love you! I'll tell you more later in a letter.
Love,
Elder Roberts. :)
Friday, November 12, 2010
Letter from New York dated 11-8-10
Dear Family (& Friends),
I'm writing to notify you that I've arrived safely to the mission home in New York City. It's really different.
The airplane experience was splendid. An Elder and I sat next to a woman perhaps in her mid-twenties. She had a nose ring and tattoos. Many people on the airplane (and of course, in SLC International) could identify us as missionaries, however, this woman didn't know. Fortunately, she knew about Mormons. We explained and talked a lot about families.
Finally, the Elder next to me asked if we could talk and bare our testimonies with her for only a few minutes. She had no problem with it. We therefore bore our testimonies that she (Erin was her name) is a daughter of God. She didn't believe, however, we shared the scripture: Acts 17:29. We explained that God isn't man's imagination and that we're his children (or offspring). She wasn't quite as comfortable as before...but I could tell that she was thinking. We explained that we're ordinary people (19 year olds).
Different world at the airport. It's like the movies! The air is bad until you drive out further on Long Island... Lots of trees and bridges.
Back in Queens, it was rather full of Concrete. There were lots of buildings and cabs.
I'm probably only 1/2 a mile from the ocean. I'm going to eat dinner soon. It's already dark and freezing outside. I've been informed that it'll be warm tomorrow.
Love,
Elder Roberts
I'm writing to notify you that I've arrived safely to the mission home in New York City. It's really different.
The airplane experience was splendid. An Elder and I sat next to a woman perhaps in her mid-twenties. She had a nose ring and tattoos. Many people on the airplane (and of course, in SLC International) could identify us as missionaries, however, this woman didn't know. Fortunately, she knew about Mormons. We explained and talked a lot about families.
Finally, the Elder next to me asked if we could talk and bare our testimonies with her for only a few minutes. She had no problem with it. We therefore bore our testimonies that she (Erin was her name) is a daughter of God. She didn't believe, however, we shared the scripture: Acts 17:29. We explained that God isn't man's imagination and that we're his children (or offspring). She wasn't quite as comfortable as before...but I could tell that she was thinking. We explained that we're ordinary people (19 year olds).
Different world at the airport. It's like the movies! The air is bad until you drive out further on Long Island... Lots of trees and bridges.
Back in Queens, it was rather full of Concrete. There were lots of buildings and cabs.
I'm probably only 1/2 a mile from the ocean. I'm going to eat dinner soon. It's already dark and freezing outside. I've been informed that it'll be warm tomorrow.
Love,
Elder Roberts
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
News of Steven's arrival in New York
It's not much news! Steven called my cell phone from the airport yesterday at 7:30 am. I don't know why he didn't call the home. He assured me when we e-mailed Tuesday that he hadn't forgotten our home number and I asked him to call the home first. Even told him to call collect if needed. Aaargh.
However, I did call the Mission Home and received a call back this morning. Sister Baum was very kind. She said she had just shaken his hand and he had a big smile on his face. She also mentioned that President had picked him up with the group at the airport and he felt that this was one of his best new groups of missionaries.
The Spanish Speaking missionaries are part of the biggest language group they have there.
PDay is now on Mondays. Sis. Baum said she had just stamped his letter and it would be heading to us as soon as the mailman arrived.
However, I did call the Mission Home and received a call back this morning. Sister Baum was very kind. She said she had just shaken his hand and he had a big smile on his face. She also mentioned that President had picked him up with the group at the airport and he felt that this was one of his best new groups of missionaries.
The Spanish Speaking missionaries are part of the biggest language group they have there.
PDay is now on Mondays. Sis. Baum said she had just stamped his letter and it would be heading to us as soon as the mailman arrived.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Letter from PDay 11/02/2010 - Last PDay at MTC
Dear Family,
Como estan ustedes? The last Friday letter written from the MTC! Can you believe it? It's incredible!
How did you do for Halloween? I appreciated receiving letters back. Hmmm man! THere are so many people here now that I'll miss.
My companion departs for Antefeguatha, Chile this Thursday. With that, I"ll need to pack so that I can move in with another Elder in my district.
It's really strange because I'll think of writing a word...and I'll almost write a spanish word instead.
There's a lot on my agenda for this week. I wish that I had more to write.
Thanks for the Halloween candy. I haven't eaten it yet except for the Reeses. I dropped a pound more this week. I want to be really healthy upon my return.
Oh! I almost forgot! Take good care of the map of railroads and telegraph lines of the war area of the 'Great War.' It's almost a century old and I don't want it to suffer extremes in temperature or folding or rolling it up. Could yu find a frame for it or store it on a flat surface where it wouldn't experience extremes in temperature such as the garage or shed? Apart from that, I hope that everything will stay together so that nothing's lost.
Perhaps you could place the map in the craft room. Don't disperse any of my possessions, please. Thanks for everything.
Sorry about all of my demands but I don't want anything lost. ;D Perhaps you could keep my Art History book at the to p of the box. In some time, I might want to have some art descriptions googled sent in the book's order.I dunno. Don't worry too much about it.
I love you all! Thanks for your support!
How are Alexis, Kylee and McKenzi doing? The kitties? the turtle? The chickens?
If I don't have sufficient time I won't be able to write a letter to Grandma & Grandpa Mills. I was hoping to have it sent with this to save money towards postage. Anyway, enjoy the week!
Love,
Elder Steven Roberts
Como estan ustedes? The last Friday letter written from the MTC! Can you believe it? It's incredible!
How did you do for Halloween? I appreciated receiving letters back. Hmmm man! THere are so many people here now that I'll miss.
My companion departs for Antefeguatha, Chile this Thursday. With that, I"ll need to pack so that I can move in with another Elder in my district.
It's really strange because I'll think of writing a word...and I'll almost write a spanish word instead.
There's a lot on my agenda for this week. I wish that I had more to write.
Thanks for the Halloween candy. I haven't eaten it yet except for the Reeses. I dropped a pound more this week. I want to be really healthy upon my return.
Oh! I almost forgot! Take good care of the map of railroads and telegraph lines of the war area of the 'Great War.' It's almost a century old and I don't want it to suffer extremes in temperature or folding or rolling it up. Could yu find a frame for it or store it on a flat surface where it wouldn't experience extremes in temperature such as the garage or shed? Apart from that, I hope that everything will stay together so that nothing's lost.
Perhaps you could place the map in the craft room. Don't disperse any of my possessions, please. Thanks for everything.
Sorry about all of my demands but I don't want anything lost. ;D Perhaps you could keep my Art History book at the to p of the box. In some time, I might want to have some art descriptions googled sent in the book's order.I dunno. Don't worry too much about it.
I love you all! Thanks for your support!
How are Alexis, Kylee and McKenzi doing? The kitties? the turtle? The chickens?
If I don't have sufficient time I won't be able to write a letter to Grandma & Grandpa Mills. I was hoping to have it sent with this to save money towards postage. Anyway, enjoy the week!
Love,
Elder Steven Roberts
Friday, October 29, 2010
Letter from PDay 10/26/2010
Dear Family (& Friends),
Hola mi familia! Como estan ustedes hoy?
Sorry about the unfound letter :( I hope that it arrives soon. (Last Friday no letter arrived. We did get one Monday which was posted last week).
Thanks for your prayers. Nothing super remarkable occurred...unless you count the fact that Russell M. Nelson spoke to us!!!
This week, apart from a talk delivered by an apostle, nothing much has occurred. I'm surviving. I hope that I continue in progress. I think that it'll be fine.
Elder Lopiano (Italian last name) showed me on google maps (we have internet access to a few sites - LDS.org and different language-helping programs als0) different parts of New York City. His father works in New York City (Elder Lopiano is from Connecticut). He's given me lots of excellent advice!
If you want to see a nice, poignant, tear-inducing video... then visit lds.org and scroll down to the bottom. It should show a video entitled "Things that I learned as a boy: Everyone can watch it!
If you want to view another good one, click 'past features' bar below the video. There will be many options. The option that you should select next is 'New Film Projects'; click the link in the following link...watch the video of the Good Samaritan in full screen.
Tell me your thoughts about it!
I remembered a video that I had showed Alexis, Kylee, and McKenzi called "Brighter Side of Elizabeth II" on YouTube. Obviously, I can't see it but I think that you would enjoy it!
It should be one of the first options on the search (Brighter side of Elizabeth II). The music is 80's, "Girls just wanna have fun." I know that you'll love it.
Queen Elizabeth is having her Diamond Jubilee (60th year of being Queen) the year I return from my mission! That's another reason why London is hosting the Summer Olympics.
I have little time remaining before I leave for New York City! I'm perhaps a little prideful when I proudly exclaim that our district is the best in the MTC. Apparently, I'm the last Elder to ship out! However, I'll be temporarily assigned to another district while mine dissolves. I can't believe that I'm almost a twelfth of the way done with my mission! It's so sad! People laugh that I talk too much with the sisters, haha... (Don't worry, I never flirt because I'm on a mission; besides I have my girl waiting for me back home - her name is... Art History). ;D
Hopefully soon, I will find a little time to order photos to be printed. I appreciate all that you do!
I love you all! Take Care! Say "Hello to the missionaries for me!
Love Steven
P.S. Later today: For the second week in a row, an apostle has spoken to us. It was Richard G. Scott! He bestowed a few Apostolic Blessings upon all of us! I felt the spirit really strong!
One of our counselors remarked that in the two years that he's worked here, he's never witnessed two consecutive weeks with apostles speaking! :D
Love you!
Bye!
Hola mi familia! Como estan ustedes hoy?
Sorry about the unfound letter :( I hope that it arrives soon. (Last Friday no letter arrived. We did get one Monday which was posted last week).
Thanks for your prayers. Nothing super remarkable occurred...unless you count the fact that Russell M. Nelson spoke to us!!!
This week, apart from a talk delivered by an apostle, nothing much has occurred. I'm surviving. I hope that I continue in progress. I think that it'll be fine.
Elder Lopiano (Italian last name) showed me on google maps (we have internet access to a few sites - LDS.org and different language-helping programs als0) different parts of New York City. His father works in New York City (Elder Lopiano is from Connecticut). He's given me lots of excellent advice!
If you want to see a nice, poignant, tear-inducing video... then visit lds.org and scroll down to the bottom. It should show a video entitled "Things that I learned as a boy: Everyone can watch it!
If you want to view another good one, click 'past features' bar below the video. There will be many options. The option that you should select next is 'New Film Projects'; click the link in the following link...watch the video of the Good Samaritan in full screen.
Tell me your thoughts about it!
I remembered a video that I had showed Alexis, Kylee, and McKenzi called "Brighter Side of Elizabeth II" on YouTube. Obviously, I can't see it but I think that you would enjoy it!
It should be one of the first options on the search (Brighter side of Elizabeth II). The music is 80's, "Girls just wanna have fun." I know that you'll love it.
Queen Elizabeth is having her Diamond Jubilee (60th year of being Queen) the year I return from my mission! That's another reason why London is hosting the Summer Olympics.
I have little time remaining before I leave for New York City! I'm perhaps a little prideful when I proudly exclaim that our district is the best in the MTC. Apparently, I'm the last Elder to ship out! However, I'll be temporarily assigned to another district while mine dissolves. I can't believe that I'm almost a twelfth of the way done with my mission! It's so sad! People laugh that I talk too much with the sisters, haha... (Don't worry, I never flirt because I'm on a mission; besides I have my girl waiting for me back home - her name is... Art History). ;D
Hopefully soon, I will find a little time to order photos to be printed. I appreciate all that you do!
I love you all! Take Care! Say "Hello to the missionaries for me!
Love Steven
P.S. Later today: For the second week in a row, an apostle has spoken to us. It was Richard G. Scott! He bestowed a few Apostolic Blessings upon all of us! I felt the spirit really strong!
One of our counselors remarked that in the two years that he's worked here, he's never witnessed two consecutive weeks with apostles speaking! :D
Love you!
Bye!
Monday, October 25, 2010
Letter from PDay 10/19/2010
Hello Family,
How's everyone doing? I received a letter each from Josh, Jaime, and Petey!
Tracy Nyland also wrote to me!However, Cameron hasn't yet written me. I'm going to make a sporadic guess that he'll be called to San Jose, Costa Rica. (I was told by Cam's mom that Cameron actually did write Steven a letter which he should have received Friday)
The difficulty is writing all of these letters! I received more from my dad, grandparents Roberts and Mills. I love to read them, however!
I have enough money, no worries. As a matter of fact, I also discovered missionary booklets with English translations in Portuguese, Russian and French. Don't worry, I only intend to ke ep the French one. I could send them home, but perhaps I should check the weight. I think that I'm fine. Also, you don't have to worry because I'm currently a bit preoccupied with Spanish.
Who toilet papered our yard? Does Chalyse happen to know?
How did the girls like the witch Scavenger Hunt? Do they know what they desire to be for Halloween?
I intent to send more photos soon!
Everything that I wanted to be disposed of has been. No need to jettison anything. ;D
Love you all!
Love,
Steven
How's everyone doing? I received a letter each from Josh, Jaime, and Petey!
Tracy Nyland also wrote to me!However, Cameron hasn't yet written me. I'm going to make a sporadic guess that he'll be called to San Jose, Costa Rica. (I was told by Cam's mom that Cameron actually did write Steven a letter which he should have received Friday)
The difficulty is writing all of these letters! I received more from my dad, grandparents Roberts and Mills. I love to read them, however!
I have enough money, no worries. As a matter of fact, I also discovered missionary booklets with English translations in Portuguese, Russian and French. Don't worry, I only intend to ke ep the French one. I could send them home, but perhaps I should check the weight. I think that I'm fine. Also, you don't have to worry because I'm currently a bit preoccupied with Spanish.
Who toilet papered our yard? Does Chalyse happen to know?
How did the girls like the witch Scavenger Hunt? Do they know what they desire to be for Halloween?
I intent to send more photos soon!
Everything that I wanted to be disposed of has been. No need to jettison anything. ;D
Love you all!
Love,
Steven
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
PDay 10/19/10
Dear Mommy,
How's life? That's splendid! You'll definitely have to e-mail me photos of the shed. Be careful with my possessions wherever they go. I know that I can trust you; you don't need to think that I'm worried about it. The language is catching on substantially. I don't necessarily have to translate mentally and speak. I've reached the juncture of learning more educated and sophisticated words. I need to improve their usage. I also need to improve my grammar moreover. I've noticed that significant progress has been accomplished and we're teaching in Spanish. It's nice to receive feedback and to acknowledge where we need to practice and improve. My companion and I have been accomplishing our goals in numbers of lessons, activities, and practices.
Early this morning at 5:00 am, my friends, Elders Panek and Brown, departed for the mission field. We took a lot of photos the night before. I hope to, in reasonable time, send those particular photos. Of course, we exchanged information before they left. They were my first roomies when I had Elder Lopez as a companion. They are so kind! They both said that they can only imagine all the people in New York City who will love my kindness! That was particularly nice of them.
Brother Gubler shared his testimony last Tuesday and it left me the only one sobbing in the room. He's in the presidency and has cared wonderfully about us. He shared how he had acquired his knowledge of the truth. It profoundly affected me! I have a photo with him. He always smiles and his wife is kind too! Anyway, we're at the point that we're the example district! In only two more weeks, my mission will have reached its second month! I'll answer your remaining questions in letters also! I'll try to write a general letter to everyone as well. Thank you for the information! I love you! I will print out the information so that I can spend all of this time amongst you, Dad, and Lisa.
Inform everyone for that I love them!
An interesting encounter last Sunday: I encountered Sister Lewis randomly. At first they were practicing contacts. They gave their message and afterwards, they asked where we were serving. She asked about Dad. Yep! It's her! Hahaha...that was cool. I wish that I had more time! :) I love you! Talk to you again! Thank you for the letters!
Question: I can't recall Louis XIV's finance minister. Could you Google "Louis XIV's Finance Minister" and send me his information too?
Love,
Steven
How's life? That's splendid! You'll definitely have to e-mail me photos of the shed. Be careful with my possessions wherever they go. I know that I can trust you; you don't need to think that I'm worried about it. The language is catching on substantially. I don't necessarily have to translate mentally and speak. I've reached the juncture of learning more educated and sophisticated words. I need to improve their usage. I also need to improve my grammar moreover. I've noticed that significant progress has been accomplished and we're teaching in Spanish. It's nice to receive feedback and to acknowledge where we need to practice and improve. My companion and I have been accomplishing our goals in numbers of lessons, activities, and practices.
Early this morning at 5:00 am, my friends, Elders Panek and Brown, departed for the mission field. We took a lot of photos the night before. I hope to, in reasonable time, send those particular photos. Of course, we exchanged information before they left. They were my first roomies when I had Elder Lopez as a companion. They are so kind! They both said that they can only imagine all the people in New York City who will love my kindness! That was particularly nice of them.
Brother Gubler shared his testimony last Tuesday and it left me the only one sobbing in the room. He's in the presidency and has cared wonderfully about us. He shared how he had acquired his knowledge of the truth. It profoundly affected me! I have a photo with him. He always smiles and his wife is kind too! Anyway, we're at the point that we're the example district! In only two more weeks, my mission will have reached its second month! I'll answer your remaining questions in letters also! I'll try to write a general letter to everyone as well. Thank you for the information! I love you! I will print out the information so that I can spend all of this time amongst you, Dad, and Lisa.
Inform everyone for that I love them!
An interesting encounter last Sunday: I encountered Sister Lewis randomly. At first they were practicing contacts. They gave their message and afterwards, they asked where we were serving. She asked about Dad. Yep! It's her! Hahaha...that was cool. I wish that I had more time! :) I love you! Talk to you again! Thank you for the letters!
Question: I can't recall Louis XIV's finance minister. Could you Google "Louis XIV's Finance Minister" and send me his information too?
Love,
Steven
Sunday, October 17, 2010
E-Mail from PDay October 12, 2010
Dear Mom and family,
I love you! Glad that I received my surprise package! Thanks! The funny fact is that one of the Elders that I knew (used to share a room with) had a bottle of Cocktail to open at the halfway mark too! I must have admitted to myself that I was sort of jealous. However, I will open it on the Sunday before I leave, if that's all right. I enjoyed the letters that I received and have looked through them. I expect that next week my companion and I will inevitably decide to e-mail after the temple visit and lunch so that we can change back into our regular clothes and relax while we write our precious letters. :) I wish that the time limit for the e-mail wasn't so stringent. Hmmm....how are grandma and grandpa doing? How's Lisa? Haven't heard at all from her. Thank you for everything....the letters and care packages make it seem that you're only forty minutes away. ;)
Actually, the majority of branches here at the MTC contain both Elders and Sisters (but, by far, the Elders are not in short supply). Our District has some. However, our class (or specific Branch) doesn't have any. The rooms near ours have some sisters. I've talked with:
Hermana Lockwood, Hermana Reyes, Hermana Voz, etc...but those are the names that I remember. It's not difficult to talk with the Sisters because we all realize that our purpose isn't to date one another. I've met Elders and Sisters from all over the place. Kiribati, Hawaii, England (UK), United States, France, Japan, Samoa, etc.
I passed the Sacrament (or 'Santa Cena'-litterally meaning: Holy Supper) last Sunday. You really visited last Saturday? Wow! (Trent and I, Valerie, attended a BYU game where we were parked by his friend behind the Legacy Club tent just behind the MTC. It was great to feel so close to Steven. Of course, I forgot the shirt he left behind and the collapsible hamper he has requested that would be hard to mail....)
Anyhow, my companion and I have been doing wonderfully. I had gained four pounds my first week and have managed to (through running for half an hour every day in gym) to drop to 167. That's 7 pounds! They have a really accurate scale here! They also have one in all of the residence buildings.
Hmm....question of the week!
Can you send me information concerning the Carthaginian General named Hamlicar? He's the father of the infamous Hannibal who crossed the Alps and harrassed the Romans in Italy until he was FINALLY defeated. I suppose, google Hamlicar. :)
Thank you!
My companion and I will try to be online at 12:45, more or less. If you want, we can e-mail....but when the time expires...I'm automatically logged out. :( Anyway, what did you think of the photos? (Scroll down to view).
I love you all! Hope that you enjoy the letters! I'm glad that you're testimony has been strengthened! Mine has been too! We're on Lesson 3 (out of 5). That's perhaps my favorite lesson to teach. My companion can apply so many good analogies to it and we've really personalized it for the investigators too! The others have been wonderful too!
We speak Spanish now too! I have truly enhanced my vocabulary....still have to find more words.
Last week, my companion found for me a German Bible in the Free Bin (missionaries who leave will leave materials that they can't fit in). I may learn German now too! I love you all!
Love,
Elder Steven Kelly Roberts
PS. Tell everyone that I love and miss them! Wish Jaime a late happy birthday from me! I really wish that I could visit him! I'm really learning to manage time wisely now too!
I love you! Glad that I received my surprise package! Thanks! The funny fact is that one of the Elders that I knew (used to share a room with) had a bottle of Cocktail to open at the halfway mark too! I must have admitted to myself that I was sort of jealous. However, I will open it on the Sunday before I leave, if that's all right. I enjoyed the letters that I received and have looked through them. I expect that next week my companion and I will inevitably decide to e-mail after the temple visit and lunch so that we can change back into our regular clothes and relax while we write our precious letters. :) I wish that the time limit for the e-mail wasn't so stringent. Hmmm....how are grandma and grandpa doing? How's Lisa? Haven't heard at all from her. Thank you for everything....the letters and care packages make it seem that you're only forty minutes away. ;)
Actually, the majority of branches here at the MTC contain both Elders and Sisters (but, by far, the Elders are not in short supply). Our District has some. However, our class (or specific Branch) doesn't have any. The rooms near ours have some sisters. I've talked with:
Hermana Lockwood, Hermana Reyes, Hermana Voz, etc...but those are the names that I remember. It's not difficult to talk with the Sisters because we all realize that our purpose isn't to date one another. I've met Elders and Sisters from all over the place. Kiribati, Hawaii, England (UK), United States, France, Japan, Samoa, etc.
I passed the Sacrament (or 'Santa Cena'-litterally meaning: Holy Supper) last Sunday. You really visited last Saturday? Wow! (Trent and I, Valerie, attended a BYU game where we were parked by his friend behind the Legacy Club tent just behind the MTC. It was great to feel so close to Steven. Of course, I forgot the shirt he left behind and the collapsible hamper he has requested that would be hard to mail....)
Anyhow, my companion and I have been doing wonderfully. I had gained four pounds my first week and have managed to (through running for half an hour every day in gym) to drop to 167. That's 7 pounds! They have a really accurate scale here! They also have one in all of the residence buildings.
Hmm....question of the week!
Can you send me information concerning the Carthaginian General named Hamlicar? He's the father of the infamous Hannibal who crossed the Alps and harrassed the Romans in Italy until he was FINALLY defeated. I suppose, google Hamlicar. :)
Thank you!
My companion and I will try to be online at 12:45, more or less. If you want, we can e-mail....but when the time expires...I'm automatically logged out. :( Anyway, what did you think of the photos? (Scroll down to view).
I love you all! Hope that you enjoy the letters! I'm glad that you're testimony has been strengthened! Mine has been too! We're on Lesson 3 (out of 5). That's perhaps my favorite lesson to teach. My companion can apply so many good analogies to it and we've really personalized it for the investigators too! The others have been wonderful too!
We speak Spanish now too! I have truly enhanced my vocabulary....still have to find more words.
Last week, my companion found for me a German Bible in the Free Bin (missionaries who leave will leave materials that they can't fit in). I may learn German now too! I love you all!
Love,
Elder Steven Kelly Roberts
PS. Tell everyone that I love and miss them! Wish Jaime a late happy birthday from me! I really wish that I could visit him! I'm really learning to manage time wisely now too!
Friday, October 8, 2010
Letter from PDay to Trent & Valerie 10/5/2010
Dear Mom & Dad,
I love you both. I appreciate the letters and cookies. My favorite scripture actually consists of this wonderful series of three verses which I have become enamored with!
St. John 15:12-15)
Read it! Have you ever thought of Christ as your personal 'friend!' That verse truly changed my view of how Christ feels for us! 13 - "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."
I've lost three pounds, but I'll be fine with the same slacks. I could use a couple pair. It doesn't need to be soon, but preferably prior to my departure for New York City. I appreciate everything that you both do! I'm going to be the best missionary that I can!
I love you!
P.S. Sorry, but apart from only the slacks and needing my fold-down hamper, I'm beyond ready... no complaints... I'm in God's Hands.
Love,
Elder Roberts
La Iglesia de JesuCristo de los Santos de los Ultimos Dias... or Steven
I love you both. I appreciate the letters and cookies. My favorite scripture actually consists of this wonderful series of three verses which I have become enamored with!
St. John 15:12-15)
Read it! Have you ever thought of Christ as your personal 'friend!' That verse truly changed my view of how Christ feels for us! 13 - "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."
I've lost three pounds, but I'll be fine with the same slacks. I could use a couple pair. It doesn't need to be soon, but preferably prior to my departure for New York City. I appreciate everything that you both do! I'm going to be the best missionary that I can!
I love you!
P.S. Sorry, but apart from only the slacks and needing my fold-down hamper, I'm beyond ready... no complaints... I'm in God's Hands.
Love,
Elder Roberts
La Iglesia de JesuCristo de los Santos de los Ultimos Dias... or Steven
e-mail from pday 10/5/2010
Dear Mom (Family/Friends),
I apologize about the change in e-mail times. My companion and I felt that it would be more efficient to e-mail in our missionary clothes (we can only wear our normal clothes in our residence halls, gym, bookstore, or post office) as we've returned recently from lunch and, prior to that, performing proxy-sealings at the Provo Temple! We watched conference live at the enormous gym that was filled to bursting with missionaries. Others that couldn't fit simply watched it in the overflow in another building. As a result, I've not yet replied to letters....if I forget to mention anything, I'll try to mention it in letters.
I appreciated the cookies (and yes, they were extremely soft) and the drawings. I have many letters to write...they may not be sooo long as I had thought. I cried during Elder Holland's talk about his mother. Really quite sentimental! I wrote down the questions for which I need to answer, however, I don't have the paper with me; I'll see whether I answer all of them....if not, then I'll respond in a letter afterwards.
I also mixed up the French First Republic with the rise to power of Napoleon Bonaparte. Forgot that it continued until the Revolutions of 1848. I also recall that the second ended in 1871 with the Franco-Prussian War and the insurrection by the Paris Commune. Did you know that they are now on their Fifth Republic?! It's strange, huh?
Anyhow, I'm still memorizing the main scriptures and my companion and I are practicing a lot. We're going to be starting the Third Lesson soon! Yesterday, I taught him (and he was pretending to be a realistic investigator) and he told me that I taught it better than ever before. I couldn't even recall every analogy that I had applied. I hadn't even taught with the spirit like that before! I still am amazed! Also, I'm still in the process (and need to finish) the memorization of the first vision in SPANISH. We go completely Spanish starting this Friday (until then, the lessons by our two teachers has been both English and Spanish).
I miss art....although, I realize that it's a worthy sacrifice to serve my savior. I've learned so much about the church. You don't realize what you lack in knowledge concerning the Gospel until you serve a mission. It's THE Church of Jesus Christ! It's not any ordinary sect!
Also, the reason why I mentioned that I had only 15 seconds is because these computers at the MTC only for strictly 30 minutes. The time is flashing at you from the top right corner of the screen! I didn't even know that it had sent! I sooooo happy that it did, hahahaha....it was a race to communicate directly to you for one last time! ;)
I love you and wish that I had sufficient time but....it's okay...I'll write. Also, I need to figure out a way to send all those photos of my district!
Here's my question....Egyptian: Google the word 'Serdab'. It's neat! It's concerning the afterlife of the spirit, or 'ka' in Ancient Egypt.
I love you!
Love,
Steven.
I apologize about the change in e-mail times. My companion and I felt that it would be more efficient to e-mail in our missionary clothes (we can only wear our normal clothes in our residence halls, gym, bookstore, or post office) as we've returned recently from lunch and, prior to that, performing proxy-sealings at the Provo Temple! We watched conference live at the enormous gym that was filled to bursting with missionaries. Others that couldn't fit simply watched it in the overflow in another building. As a result, I've not yet replied to letters....if I forget to mention anything, I'll try to mention it in letters.
I appreciated the cookies (and yes, they were extremely soft) and the drawings. I have many letters to write...they may not be sooo long as I had thought. I cried during Elder Holland's talk about his mother. Really quite sentimental! I wrote down the questions for which I need to answer, however, I don't have the paper with me; I'll see whether I answer all of them....if not, then I'll respond in a letter afterwards.
I also mixed up the French First Republic with the rise to power of Napoleon Bonaparte. Forgot that it continued until the Revolutions of 1848. I also recall that the second ended in 1871 with the Franco-Prussian War and the insurrection by the Paris Commune. Did you know that they are now on their Fifth Republic?! It's strange, huh?
Anyhow, I'm still memorizing the main scriptures and my companion and I are practicing a lot. We're going to be starting the Third Lesson soon! Yesterday, I taught him (and he was pretending to be a realistic investigator) and he told me that I taught it better than ever before. I couldn't even recall every analogy that I had applied. I hadn't even taught with the spirit like that before! I still am amazed! Also, I'm still in the process (and need to finish) the memorization of the first vision in SPANISH. We go completely Spanish starting this Friday (until then, the lessons by our two teachers has been both English and Spanish).
I miss art....although, I realize that it's a worthy sacrifice to serve my savior. I've learned so much about the church. You don't realize what you lack in knowledge concerning the Gospel until you serve a mission. It's THE Church of Jesus Christ! It's not any ordinary sect!
Also, the reason why I mentioned that I had only 15 seconds is because these computers at the MTC only for strictly 30 minutes. The time is flashing at you from the top right corner of the screen! I didn't even know that it had sent! I sooooo happy that it did, hahahaha....it was a race to communicate directly to you for one last time! ;)
I love you and wish that I had sufficient time but....it's okay...I'll write. Also, I need to figure out a way to send all those photos of my district!
Here's my question....Egyptian: Google the word 'Serdab'. It's neat! It's concerning the afterlife of the spirit, or 'ka' in Ancient Egypt.
I love you!
Love,
Steven.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Letter received 10/1/10 written 9/28/10
Dear Family,
Thanks for the drawings, letters, and delicious cookies! Everything is going fine.
I've met this Elder who lives in my mission area and he gave me his parents' addresses so that I can talk perhaps to them. He departed for So America this morning. You're welcome for the letter. Nobody besides Carlos, Asierleigh, Grandma & Grandpa, have written me (and I sort of expected to correspond with others (whom won't be named here).... Hmmmm.... I won't worry too much about it.)
Did I mention that I have a new companion in my previous letter? Elder Lopez and his new companion, Elder Bennion, have both departed now for the MTC in Guatemala. They'll spend their remaining weeks there. They left early this morning. Elder Lopez was supposed to report with his baggage this morning at 4:00 am to the Travel Office. Unfortunately, he woke up seven minutes before 4:00 am and virtually fell off of the top bunk in attempt to scramble to dress up. Poor Elder! Elder Bennion didn't need to report until 5:00 am.
Now, Elder Halvorsen and I have this room virtually to ourselves. Hahaha, Carlos told me about the blog posting. I'll have a question when I go to e-mail a little later. I have until dinner (only on P-day, obviously).
Our districts were separated by level of language knowledge. I'm in the middle. Two of our Elders (Elders Castillos and Reeves) tested into advanced classes. We're intermediate. I'm the only person in our district of 12 (6 companionships) who's serving in New York City. Most of them are going to serve in either Guatemala (both Elder Lopez & Bennion who left today). Chilie (5 of them! That's virtually half of our district); Nicaragua, Managua North (only 1); San Bernadino, California (1); Arcadia, California (1), Dallas, Texas (1); and me (New York City, South). Our district consists of: Elder Clarke - Portland, Oregon, Elder Todd, Virginia, Elder Marill, Chicago, IL, Elder Ririe - Orem, UT, Elder Lopiano, Monroe, Connecticut. He's given me sooo much advice about New York. His father works there and he lives only forty-five minutes away. His family is Italian and he's also virtually engaged). ;D Elder Halvorsen (my new companion) - Payson, Utah; Elder Foster - South Carolina/Utah; Elder Relei - Our district leader from Oakland, CA; Elder Lefyvre - from Southern California. Plus our two dearest former members of district 48B who left this morning.
We virtually spend every minute of the day with each other. They're like my family from the MTC, ha ha. We're great! I can't wait to send you the photos that I've ordered for printing; you will love them! They arrive on either Friday or Saturday. I will have them sent next Preparation Day.
Emma Watson is glorious in deed!
I love you all!
Love,
Steven.
PS (Can you send me Jaime's writing address?
Thank you!
P.S.S.: I've met so many people from all around the world! Thanks for everything! Lexi is skating?! Awesome!
It's a glorious sight: To see name tags in virtually almost every language in the world at this campus.
Thanks for the drawings, letters, and delicious cookies! Everything is going fine.
I've met this Elder who lives in my mission area and he gave me his parents' addresses so that I can talk perhaps to them. He departed for So America this morning. You're welcome for the letter. Nobody besides Carlos, Asierleigh, Grandma & Grandpa, have written me (and I sort of expected to correspond with others (whom won't be named here).... Hmmmm.... I won't worry too much about it.)
Did I mention that I have a new companion in my previous letter? Elder Lopez and his new companion, Elder Bennion, have both departed now for the MTC in Guatemala. They'll spend their remaining weeks there. They left early this morning. Elder Lopez was supposed to report with his baggage this morning at 4:00 am to the Travel Office. Unfortunately, he woke up seven minutes before 4:00 am and virtually fell off of the top bunk in attempt to scramble to dress up. Poor Elder! Elder Bennion didn't need to report until 5:00 am.
Now, Elder Halvorsen and I have this room virtually to ourselves. Hahaha, Carlos told me about the blog posting. I'll have a question when I go to e-mail a little later. I have until dinner (only on P-day, obviously).
Our districts were separated by level of language knowledge. I'm in the middle. Two of our Elders (Elders Castillos and Reeves) tested into advanced classes. We're intermediate. I'm the only person in our district of 12 (6 companionships) who's serving in New York City. Most of them are going to serve in either Guatemala (both Elder Lopez & Bennion who left today). Chilie (5 of them! That's virtually half of our district); Nicaragua, Managua North (only 1); San Bernadino, California (1); Arcadia, California (1), Dallas, Texas (1); and me (New York City, South). Our district consists of: Elder Clarke - Portland, Oregon, Elder Todd, Virginia, Elder Marill, Chicago, IL, Elder Ririe - Orem, UT, Elder Lopiano, Monroe, Connecticut. He's given me sooo much advice about New York. His father works there and he lives only forty-five minutes away. His family is Italian and he's also virtually engaged). ;D Elder Halvorsen (my new companion) - Payson, Utah; Elder Foster - South Carolina/Utah; Elder Relei - Our district leader from Oakland, CA; Elder Lefyvre - from Southern California. Plus our two dearest former members of district 48B who left this morning.
We virtually spend every minute of the day with each other. They're like my family from the MTC, ha ha. We're great! I can't wait to send you the photos that I've ordered for printing; you will love them! They arrive on either Friday or Saturday. I will have them sent next Preparation Day.
Emma Watson is glorious in deed!
I love you all!
Love,
Steven.
PS (Can you send me Jaime's writing address?
Thank you!
P.S.S.: I've met so many people from all around the world! Thanks for everything! Lexi is skating?! Awesome!
It's a glorious sight: To see name tags in virtually almost every language in the world at this campus.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Pday E-mail Sept 28, 2010
It's our day off, however, it's busier than other Preparation Days simply because the infamous MTC Fireside happens to be on Tuesdays. I've written much in a letter, as a result, I don't know where to begin. I did receive the information and the booklet from New York. I've met only one individual who will be serving in the same mission as me (I've explained the rest in the letter that should arrive soon). Also, I've ordered the photos on my SD card to be printed (I tried to earlier this week between classes but the machine wouldn't accept my card-it did today) and they should arrive tomorrow afternoon. I'll have them sent next week. I'm aprehensive! I really want you and the family to see the photos of my MTC 'family', ha ha. My district is wonderful. Twelve wonderful elders from all over the U.S. The number is now ten commencing with today because our two missionaries (and my ex-companion) who will be serving in Guatemala left for the MTC in that country. I expounded more on that in the letter.
I received more drawings! Thanks! I love them! How is Lexi's Ice Skating? Are Kenzi and Kylee doing it as well or something different? The oldest district left yesterday....it was quite sad because I had spoken to Sister Stalings and the two zone leaders a lot! All of them are serving in Chile now. I have some photos.
How are the news, pets, you, dad, family, and the pool doing? I wish that I could use a restroom that didn't seem like a dorm one, ha ha. The work is incessant and lasts all day, however, my district always relieves the stress. We laugh play GOOD jokes, et cetera. The Zone Leaders called to replace the others that left which I had previously mentioned are actually both from District 48B (my district)!
Anyway, I suppose that I'll ask two questions this week because I missed the previous one (I've heard from other Elders that they ask sports questions and updates instead, ha ha).
1. What year did the Second French Republic start (I know that one of the years between 1793 and 1799). Simply Google-Second French Republic. Thank you sooo much!
2. How much I love you and my family! :)
I received more drawings! Thanks! I love them! How is Lexi's Ice Skating? Are Kenzi and Kylee doing it as well or something different? The oldest district left yesterday....it was quite sad because I had spoken to Sister Stalings and the two zone leaders a lot! All of them are serving in Chile now. I have some photos.
How are the news, pets, you, dad, family, and the pool doing? I wish that I could use a restroom that didn't seem like a dorm one, ha ha. The work is incessant and lasts all day, however, my district always relieves the stress. We laugh play GOOD jokes, et cetera. The Zone Leaders called to replace the others that left which I had previously mentioned are actually both from District 48B (my district)!
Anyway, I suppose that I'll ask two questions this week because I missed the previous one (I've heard from other Elders that they ask sports questions and updates instead, ha ha).
1. What year did the Second French Republic start (I know that one of the years between 1793 and 1799). Simply Google-Second French Republic. Thank you sooo much!
2. How much I love you and my family! :)
Friday, September 24, 2010
Letter Received Sept. 23, 2010 - written 9/21/2010
Dear Family,
Hola, como esta'n ustedes esta' semana? !Todo fue bi' en hoy y estoy alegre porque es el dia de preparaction! For those of you who do not know Spanish, my years of Spanish in highschool allow me translate as thus: "Hello. How are you all this week? Everything went well today and I am happy because it is Preparation Day!"
Woke up at 6:00 am this moring in attempts to arrive before all the washers would be filled. We arrived instead at 6:10 am and had to wait for our turns! On Preparation Day, one doesn't necessarily have to wake up early at all! But breakfast starts at 7:45 am for our residence Hall (Different Residence Halls have different P-days during the week).
We visited the temple earlier today and also previously on Sunday. I bought a comprehensive English Dictionary to compliment the free Spanish Dictionary for which Bible/Book of Mormon language I know) I was provided; This way, I can enhance and embellish vocabularies in both languages.
My companion and I are writing letters currently but we're going to visit the e-mail center soon so that we can e-mail our families. I'm excited. I've enjoyed all my days, however, Preparation Days are rejuvenating and (apart from Sunday) is the only day, with no classes. Ha ha... that's why I as wondering about the surname of Henry VIII's fourth wife, sorry. I can't focus if I've forgotten something, no matter what it is. On Sunday evening films are shown. I enjoyed viewing "Legacy" and "Testaments"; both wonderful films.
A new missionary has joined our district (none have joined since our district's original formation on September 8th). As a result of this, some changes were conducted to companionships. Because my companion, Elder Lopez, is going to serve his mission in Guatemala, the zone leaders figured that it was perhaps most convenient to join him with Elder Bennion (who's also going to be sent to exotic Guatemala). This precipitated a change of companions and I've been matched with Elder Halverson. Elder Lopez and I have been good friends and were sort of sad (we finished teaching our final T.E. investigator last night); ...I want to testify that I have grown so much closer to God! On Monday, Elder Lopez and I felt the spirit so poignantly while we taught a lesson to an investigator...
The change was finalized last night and we've moved into a different room. Fortunately, Elder Lopez and Elder Bennion share a room with Elder Halverson and I.
Elder Halverson is a Utahn like me! He's from Payson, Utah and will be serving in Chile. He's really fun and reminds me a little bit of Landon (wink, wink at Chalyse). I'm finally on the bottom bunk now as well! Elder Halverson has also traveled around the world (his father is a pilot) and, as a result, we have much to converse about.
I haven't seen this Emma Watson girl who's serving in my mission yet. There are so many missionaries that one can hardly find specific people. I have encountered some people from high school and even wonderful Brad Helquist. I've seen him a lot (his residence hall is next to ours). If you ever see Brad's mother, please tell her that I told Brad, "Hi" from her. Anyhow, Thanks also for the lovely drawings/paintings! I enjoyed receiving them last week! Girls, I love you! I still have them and thank you! Take abundant care of my bedroom as well. I know that all is well! Love you!
Love, Steven!
PS. My hand is cramping. Anyway, we have taken photos and I hope to send some no later than next Tuesday! You'll definitely appreciate them!
Hola, como esta'n ustedes esta' semana? !Todo fue bi' en hoy y estoy alegre porque es el dia de preparaction! For those of you who do not know Spanish, my years of Spanish in highschool allow me translate as thus: "Hello. How are you all this week? Everything went well today and I am happy because it is Preparation Day!"
Woke up at 6:00 am this moring in attempts to arrive before all the washers would be filled. We arrived instead at 6:10 am and had to wait for our turns! On Preparation Day, one doesn't necessarily have to wake up early at all! But breakfast starts at 7:45 am for our residence Hall (Different Residence Halls have different P-days during the week).
We visited the temple earlier today and also previously on Sunday. I bought a comprehensive English Dictionary to compliment the free Spanish Dictionary for which Bible/Book of Mormon language I know) I was provided; This way, I can enhance and embellish vocabularies in both languages.
My companion and I are writing letters currently but we're going to visit the e-mail center soon so that we can e-mail our families. I'm excited. I've enjoyed all my days, however, Preparation Days are rejuvenating and (apart from Sunday) is the only day, with no classes. Ha ha... that's why I as wondering about the surname of Henry VIII's fourth wife, sorry. I can't focus if I've forgotten something, no matter what it is. On Sunday evening films are shown. I enjoyed viewing "Legacy" and "Testaments"; both wonderful films.
A new missionary has joined our district (none have joined since our district's original formation on September 8th). As a result of this, some changes were conducted to companionships. Because my companion, Elder Lopez, is going to serve his mission in Guatemala, the zone leaders figured that it was perhaps most convenient to join him with Elder Bennion (who's also going to be sent to exotic Guatemala). This precipitated a change of companions and I've been matched with Elder Halverson. Elder Lopez and I have been good friends and were sort of sad (we finished teaching our final T.E. investigator last night); ...I want to testify that I have grown so much closer to God! On Monday, Elder Lopez and I felt the spirit so poignantly while we taught a lesson to an investigator...
The change was finalized last night and we've moved into a different room. Fortunately, Elder Lopez and Elder Bennion share a room with Elder Halverson and I.
Elder Halverson is a Utahn like me! He's from Payson, Utah and will be serving in Chile. He's really fun and reminds me a little bit of Landon (wink, wink at Chalyse). I'm finally on the bottom bunk now as well! Elder Halverson has also traveled around the world (his father is a pilot) and, as a result, we have much to converse about.
I haven't seen this Emma Watson girl who's serving in my mission yet. There are so many missionaries that one can hardly find specific people. I have encountered some people from high school and even wonderful Brad Helquist. I've seen him a lot (his residence hall is next to ours). If you ever see Brad's mother, please tell her that I told Brad, "Hi" from her. Anyhow, Thanks also for the lovely drawings/paintings! I enjoyed receiving them last week! Girls, I love you! I still have them and thank you! Take abundant care of my bedroom as well. I know that all is well! Love you!
Love, Steven!
PS. My hand is cramping. Anyway, we have taken photos and I hope to send some no later than next Tuesday! You'll definitely appreciate them!
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Week of Sept. 15-21st, 2010 News
Mom,
... We can open letters any day of the week but we shouldn't open them until we arrive back at our rooms at 9:25 pm. That's what makes people so motivated at the end of the day....we all love receiving mail.
I'll agree to e-mail you diligently (haha...missionary language-do I sound like I've read a lot? I've memorized the first vision, did you know?)
Wow! God will bless you for your faithfulness! We've enjoyed a splendid day today. A rare occurence happened yesterday...we received a brand new elder in our district. As a result, a lot of us had to change companions. My new companion is named Elder Halvorsen. I sent you a long letter about updates and specifics in the MTC. We've learned a lot so far. Have you googled the last name of Henry VIII's fourth wife. All I know is that her first name was Katherine. It drives me crazy when I can't remember things. Could you please find out for me. :) I'd really appreciate it. Today is the only day where we don't have any classes. I really want to learn the Gospel and the lessons and I'm doing a great job at it....but I also don't want to forget everything that I've worked so hard to learn.
How is everybody? How are they liking school? How is Chalyse? Some of my missionary friends have asked a little bit about her, ha ha ha. I love you! Hugs and kisses! I also intend to have some photos printed (we aren't permitted to attach them to a file on the internet) and sent to you guys! Thanks for the e-mail!
Love,
Steven.
... We can open letters any day of the week but we shouldn't open them until we arrive back at our rooms at 9:25 pm. That's what makes people so motivated at the end of the day....we all love receiving mail.
I'll agree to e-mail you diligently (haha...missionary language-do I sound like I've read a lot? I've memorized the first vision, did you know?)
Wow! God will bless you for your faithfulness! We've enjoyed a splendid day today. A rare occurence happened yesterday...we received a brand new elder in our district. As a result, a lot of us had to change companions. My new companion is named Elder Halvorsen. I sent you a long letter about updates and specifics in the MTC. We've learned a lot so far. Have you googled the last name of Henry VIII's fourth wife. All I know is that her first name was Katherine. It drives me crazy when I can't remember things. Could you please find out for me. :) I'd really appreciate it. Today is the only day where we don't have any classes. I really want to learn the Gospel and the lessons and I'm doing a great job at it....but I also don't want to forget everything that I've worked so hard to learn.
How is everybody? How are they liking school? How is Chalyse? Some of my missionary friends have asked a little bit about her, ha ha ha. I love you! Hugs and kisses! I also intend to have some photos printed (we aren't permitted to attach them to a file on the internet) and sent to you guys! Thanks for the e-mail!
Love,
Steven.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
First Week at MTC
 |
| The tree we dedicated to Steven at the Community Park (Eagle) - notice the beautiful rainbow in the background! Planted August 27th, 2010 |
Love,
Steven.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Steven's first few days at the MTC
Hi! I intend to write a letter very soon in regards to the first week but my companion and I have had seriously NO time! Hope to finish this Sunday. Every waking moment is spent in the service and learning of God. The food is sooooo delicious! Don't know how negetive rumors were spread about it. However, the only excuse to e-mail you this day was because I received a pink slip to e-mail you concerning the immunizations...
My companion is sort of asleep now, ha ha, we've been studying literally all day long! We're learning the language really fast! We have the funniest group of new Elders ever! We share a single classroom and are all paired up as companions. My companion and I are a very coherent team! We love talking about movies, scriptures, and so many good things. We do very well together. Sorry, I don't have adequate time to express my love for each member of our family. Express my love to them for me...
Thanks! I'm doing well! I'll e-mail more in a few more days (I have more time on Tuesday). I'll send letters!
with love,
Steven.
My companion is sort of asleep now, ha ha, we've been studying literally all day long! We're learning the language really fast! We have the funniest group of new Elders ever! We share a single classroom and are all paired up as companions. My companion and I are a very coherent team! We love talking about movies, scriptures, and so many good things. We do very well together. Sorry, I don't have adequate time to express my love for each member of our family. Express my love to them for me...
Thanks! I'm doing well! I'll e-mail more in a few more days (I have more time on Tuesday). I'll send letters!
with love,
Steven.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)