This past week just flew flew by!!!!!!!! So Crazy. I love Christmas so much and this time of the year. I have come so far and grown so much since my beginning days in Brasov. I can't believe while I am writing to you from Deva, my companion...former companion Elder Olson is spending the day in Bucuresti. Going to Cismigiu Park, interview with President, spending the night with the Assistants and heading home TOMORROW. These past 5 weeks went by super quick and I will miss Elder Olson, I taught him a lot and I think he taught me a lot. Just kidding, he did teach me a lot. It was a pleasure to serve with him. And I think he convinced me of the true school I need to go to...The University of Utah. I will still love BYU though. But I don't want to talk about that right now. That's another day, and another story.
So I forgot, at this time last week, I was in TIMISOARA! Playing some paintball and did email there and then back up to Arad, last p-day for Elder Olson. Just thought I'd say that...next week I'll try and be in Oradea for P-day, just kidding.
Last Tuesday it snowed but it didn't stick at all and just melted, even though it snowed for most of the afternoon and night, it was all just too light and that was the second time so far this winter snow wise....I bet in two weeks there will be snow on the ground. Hopefully. Tuesday we went to the shelter also for a little bit, we didn't really help out, they were getting ready for their Christmas parties they would be doing Wednesday and Friday. And those were so much fun/crazy all at the same time and will be one of my most favorite Christmas memories ever. I love going there so much. I can't really explain it, but it was just an awesome experience and a lot of fun time, making new friends and getting to know people. Some people that are really looked down upon in this country and others that are just everyday normal people that I probably would never ever meet. I love the Shelter.
Wednesday also, after the shelter, a lot of the members all met together to prepare for the Christmas party the next day and I learned basically the secrets and all the mysteries of making the SARMALE. I'll make it for all of you next Christmas...if you remind me. It's kinda a big deal and I'll forget. But it was fun just hanging out with all the members, and learning about sarmale. Every year they make it here in Arad and also in Brasov they would as well. They prepared it all Wednesday and then Thursday morning they all cooked it. I think just one of the members took the 3 big pots that the sarmale was in and she made it Thursday morning.
Oh man, Thursday evening. Those dang Sisters Hickman and Cottam, they did this totally on purpose. I can't sing. :( So the party started around 6. We got there and everything had been set up, stable, manger, Christmas trees, the day before and Tuesday as well. After English. 6 we started. So going to the church we got a ride from the McFaddens. And we brought some brownies made by me and other stuff. Then we get to the church and they ask us if we had brought the star (pretty big sized, 8 pointed, to go above the stable) hehe we forgot, so we just drove back home picked it up and went back to the church, we get there about 5:50 max. And then we get everything set up last minute and it's all good....oh wait, where are the sisters?! Dang it! They don't show up until about 6:30 and as a part of the program we all were supposed to sing O Little Town of Bethlehem, And it was like first thing in the program...and as you guessed it, me and Elder Olson sang it by ourselves. And me and Elder Olson are about the same musically talented (singing wise) I got him beat on the piano. But I know it was bad, but everyone felt bad for us and told us we did a great job....I was a little chapped off at those sisters. but rest of the program was great. Bivald makes a great Mos Craciun (aka Santa Clause) and all the kids loved it. One member broke the bathroom door, fiber glass I think? and upstairs in the kitchen, not sure why, the tile floor just broke unexplainbly. It was a great night. haha. Lots of family members of members and some investigators. YAY!
Friday. Good day and Saturday lots of fun, tried and succeeded in visiting nearly all the members with the car, sisters, and Mcfaddens, we went caroling to all of them and brought them some goodies. Ate very well that night, because everyone had something ready to give to the carolers and as tradition usually all the kids go out in the blocs and on the streets caroling and expecting gifts/money in return. And we started with a lot of gifts but in the end with all the members giving us stuff, I think we ended up with more than we started haha. Everyone is so nice here, and I love them all so much.
Christmas Eve it was great talking to the family! Everyone but Garrett! I love you Garrett and wish you a merry Christmas, brother.
It was a great Christmas here in Arad. One to remember for the rest of my life. I love this time of the year and can't believe we're entering already into 2012. I hope you all are doing great in your respective cities. Arad is doing great (I'm here) hehe. I love this time of the year, think about what I wish I did in the past year, this year that's nearly done, and what I want to do the next year. Make goals and achieve them. Be better everyday. Too easy.
Much love.
Coming soon the the Arad . ro / maraton (without the spaces) hopefully I made it! I ran this past Saturday in the Maratonul Mos Craciunilor. It was the Santa Clause race they hold here in Arad every Christmas. Last year it was awesome, a Elder Harvey ran in it and got 2nd place! I got about 35th or so, nothing impressive, but crossing the finish line after a huge "TWO SIX"............Two point six kilometers that is haha. I was dying after crossing. Me and Olson had run quite a few times during the day on P-day and in the morning in the stinking cold, but man that race was brutal. Last year there was snow and it was raining this year and so so cold! I tried, but my lungs were dying at the end. I did beat all the missionaries and some members that ran. It was fun and I got a free and torn up Santa suit out of it. I loved it.
And the day before that I was pigging out and training my stomach eating too many treats and a big Christmas meal for the Christmas party, for the Arad and Sibiu Zone. It was a lot of fun. Kinda stressful taking care of everything but it went well and people said they enjoyed it. I had some late nights with bunches of Elders at my apartment. As a part of the party, we saw a slide show of pictures around the mission and also the Hills pictures mainly with lots of missionaries. Then also a tie exchange and scarf exchange for the sisters. And a testimony meeting, singing Christmas hymns, played the same game as last year, telephone charades, lots of fun, and fun and games for some free time. It was a great day and I loved it. The day before that, had a great exchange with the best former companion ever, ELDER DURAND! Deva came a day early and they spent their exchange here in Arad and we had a busy and long day with 2 service opportunities, and member visits and helping set up the Christmas party, and dinner at a restaurant with 5 other elders. I miss elder Durand and it was good to be with him again, and actually he started his mission here in Arad and he was glad to be back and people remembered him too (he was here just for one transfer then went to Timisoara and his 2nd in Timisoara, he served with ME!) I love you Durand Durand!
We had a fun p-day here, last one for elder Olson down in Timisoara, paintball was so much fun and a few welts and bruises. So much fun.
Church, probably craziest one yet here in Romania, but I'll save that for another day.
It was a great week. I love this work so much and there are so many ways to do missionary work. Need to find the way that works for you and just do it. And also to remember, talk to everyone you meet!
I love you. Merry Christmas. Happy Holidays!
The Bells are ringing. Some highlights of the week. Edy got married! Ciprian was baptized in Timisoara. Started english. Visited an awesome monestary today. It was a good week. Met with most of the investigators...but first off. Edy!
Ever since visiting him my first or second week in the city, he talked about his girlfriend and getting married and finally last week he got married....3 months later. And the biggest reason which was a good one, was that his mom was in Spain working and he wanted to wait for her. Good for him haha. It was funny, they didn't really want to go all out at all and I respect that. So basically the wedding that they invited people to was to the Civil wedding which we also went to last Friday. Lasted about 15 minutes. We were five minutes late and it was already over basically when we got there. haha Everyone was just taking pictures and what not. The Sisters were there and what we missed, the civil man? He asked a couple questions to Edy and then to Timi, they both said yes and they kissed and they were married. haha I know the week prior (last week) Edy was kinda stressed out and busy, going to the town hall, and relatives and signing some papers, doing a little medical stuff. But didn't seem like too much work. haha but Edy was very happy and so am I. He's for sure one of my favorite members hands down here in Arad. He went through some hard times going inactive due to some silly stuff, but he is back and super strong and great for the branch here in Arad. He's the best.
For my exchange last week in Timisoara, i definitely had some free time to visit a past investigator, Ciprian! He had changed over the past 6 months so much. Less stubborn and I couldn't believe he had chosen a date when the missionaries told me that last transfer. I was so excited and I am glad it happended last Saturday. It was great to visit with him Wednesday when I was down there for the exchange with Elder Bennett. We had a great exchange and met with some members and past investigators, it was a great day and I simply wish Razvan and Caruntu's phone numbers still work. I want to talk to them, and hopefully they meet up again with the missionaries and I can talk to them again. There's a plan for everyone. It was great to receive the pictures from his ceremony. And I was able to talk to him on the phone last night and he was so happy along with his wife. They are the best family ever!
English classes. It was dumb. On Tuesday, we had a good turnout (for here in Arad) usually it's never as good as it was. But everyone was scared and didn't come to the medium class. So everyone was in Beginner and we both helped teach that class and basically spotted out the Medium students, which there were a lot of. So on Tuesday it wasn't the best, but then for Saturday, it was fine and we had a good class. And even a member was there for the Medium class and it went well.
Today was a cool experience. We visited a monastery. St. Simion Stalpnicul and it was really cool. Usually it's locked up, but it was perfect timing, when we got there, there was a group/field trip of 1st graders or so, so a nun I believe came out unlocked it for them and also allowed us inside to take a look. Super pretty and I loved all the paintings from moments in the Savior's life. They were very well done. It was pretty awesome. I liked a lot on the outside, huge mural/painting of Christ blessing fish and bread and feeding the 4000 or 5000...I am not sure, didn't have time to quite count that high, plus the scene didn't include the full multitude, I want to say 5000, because most people don't even know about the 4000. They combine in their heads into the same story. But oh well. That's for another day. Monastery was cool. And we went there in the car with the McFaddens and Sisters. Elder Olson was in the back, I was navigator...and then crazy not sure why we did this, but me and Elder Olson while the other 4 drove back, we ran back! Ran to Kaufland a sheer 7.6 kilometers. Not to bad. Walked a little in there but I was dying. It has been surprisingly not too cold in the last moment of time. We went running twice last week and already once this week. Off to a good start. That run was so long and killer. I was dying plus had a good sized backpack on. Shed down to the shorts and shirt fast. Only about 11 degrees...slash....52 degrees today during the day and it'll cool down to about freezing usually during the night. it was way cold about 3 weeks ago. Not warm, but not nearly as cold as it was then now. I love the weather now. Beautiful!
Investigators. People will come to church, we teach them, but really they show no want to progress and really it's tough to have them have that desire. Can't force anyone to do anything. We just keep inviting and working hard. I have come to love I can say the members here in Arad the most. Making the time for them, visiting them more and calling them to see how their day was. I love the members here in Arad so much. I love the west. It has such a different feel here than in the south in Bucuresti and even in the Central/Transilvania heart in Brasov. And from the south east of Constanta. I can't say about Moldova area - iasi, galati, bacau and then the Republic of Moldova Chisinau and Orhei. I'll let you know if I ever make it out there. Arad and Timisoara are the best cities ever to serve. I love the people here so much. They are so so nice and open. I love this message of the gospel so much. I love being a missionary. This is the best work ever that we can be doing. Pray to God and find out the truth for yourself. Easy as that!
I love you all and hope you have a warm and lovely Christmas this season. 13 days!
Yay! For this past week it was December 1st and what do I get to do to celebrate the huge Independence day for the country of Romania. I get on a train down to Bucuresti. Yay! It was the best ever. Lots of food, fun, excitement, games, drinks, and sleep! Ok it was all that minus the food, excitement, games, drinks....and fun. Oh....and the sleep. But it was the best December 1st ever. I don't remember doing anything in Brasov at all with Elder Betteridge last year. Eh oh well. It wasn't anything special here neither this year. But it was a good train ride. I hate trains because I cannot sleep on them! Of course I do sleep, but just all during the meeting upon arriving I am dead. Spend the day in Bucuresti (the 2nd) and then that night, another train back to Arad. I don't understand how on the way down there it's 11 hours and coming back 12 hours...hmmm I was thinking about uphill factor, change in longitude, hmmm temperature, elevation, train drivers, lots come into play. But I love trains. They are my new home it seems like. I believe within a month (28 days or make that 32 days?) I was down to Bucuresti and back to Arad. 4 times meaning 8 wonderful train rides. I am grateful that I can at least lay down and don't have to sit up all night, like I did earlier this year with Elder Eaton....twice! I love train rides. They are simply the best. But it was well worth it I would like to think. Because this mission would be lost without my example in that meeting, attitude and dashing looks, and outstanding comments, and creative upcoming ideas and thoughts. HaHa!!! Of course it's always worth it. Some of the best minds coming together with President and Sora Hill and everyone putting in their input and trying to make the mission better. Kinda crazy (I know I have said this before) being over an entire 2 countries decently sized as a Mission President. I love Sora and President Hill a lot and know they have a lot on their plate. I simply just try and help out. And we got the load on our backs. All 12 of us. Plus Assistants to carry out the messages to the mission and telling everyone what needs to happen. I always love going to Mission Council/ Zone Leader Council as they are calling it these days. Can't believe my first one was in June! And I have been there ever since once a month. 7 months! I am not boasting, but surprised myself, he has kept me zone leader so long. I am grateful and try to be simply a good example for others.
This past Sunday, I am talking about yesterday. Ghita received the Aaronic Priesthood and next week he'll be passing the Sacrament! He is so cool and I love always going over there, visiting, and having great lessons with him and his wife, and his kid who is usually always crazy, but will eventually-usually-never calm down while we are there. :) It is going great with him and he gets along great with the other members in the Branch. All about Unity. Making people feel welcome. Reaching out. Lifting up one another and not criticizing and degrading one another. Love. Love. Love.
We had sign-ups for english. Those went well on Saturday. Starting tomorrow with another class. We'll probably be teaching medium. Me and Elder Olson. That should be good and hopefully we get some more students than what me and Elder Schanck got. For english is was fun buying, making posters and putting those up all around Centru. It was frustrating taking my gloves off and on because I was dealing with the tape while Elder Olson kept his gloves on pretty much the whole time, we switched it up. but my hands were numb by the end walking up and down centru putting up posters with tape and in a couple other places. I enjoyed it.
It was Sora Hickman's birthday last Tuesday. Happy Birthday! We celebrated after our meeting with smores over the oven-fire. Pretty good. They don't have normal white marshmellows here but in a package Sora Hickman got we shared and they were pretty dang delicious.
Something I am also trying to do is memorize/remember member's birthdays coming up in the month and trying to write them a card and a treat. Made banana bread last week and last night, some brownies. They say mine are the best. Not sure if they are lying or really complimenting me. Of course I know, but I'll leave it up to you decipher and read in-between the dotted-lines.
It was a good week. Had some good meetings/discussions/lessons/chats with Paul, Mandra, David, Costi and Gabi and many other members and people. We need some more people to teach, but things are going great so far for the Arad Zone and Branch. I love it here and love my people I serve.
Do something nice everyday for a random stranger and don't wait for them to say "Thank you."
I love this work. Happy Holidays! Christmas is the best.
It was a great week this past week. Started off great with a nice Thanksgiving celebration mainly the McFaddens, we helped with a broccoli salad and ice cream dessert and the sisters with a fruit salad. It was great, even if it was chicken instead of turkey, great mashed potatoes, stuffing, rolls, and wonderful company. Thank you so much Elder and Sora McFadden for your cooking abilities and hospitality. I do appreciate it so much. One of my most memorable Thanksgivings ever. Although last year was pretty dang exciting on a train from Brasov to Bucuresti for my first Zone Conference. I can't decide which one was the best...Then Monday night we had a goodbye good lesson with our baptismal candidate, Ghita. Elder Schanck told them he was leaving that next night and they were both really sad. I loved all of our crazy lessons we had at their house, at the church, with Cristi (a 6 year old) running around everywhere. It was a good lesson. Then we had a last Distict Meeting. District 9. Me, Elder Schanck, Sora Moulton, and Sora Hickman and the McFaddens. Then we packed up. Called investigators and visited one member before leaving Tuesday night. We had plenty of time to find our seats on the train. But the sisters, oh my goodness! They almost missed the train. I tried calling them and it seemed like 5 other people were also calling them at the same time and they barely made it. Then at the first stop they got off and moved over to the right wagon. It was pretty intense. Brings back some great memories. I hate missing trains! haha Fun times with every single one of my companions (not in Bucuresti) but while we were in Brasov. Timisoara. And here in Arad and then when we took trains for exchanges. Every one is different and I just don't want to miss a train. That's that. haha Moving on. Wednesday. All day in Bucuresti. After 3 months of missing it! Got to visit Sora Gorzo and we had a meal there. The office Elders didn't do visa work because they mis-scheduled times for the incoming sisters. Plus the sisters plane was delayed coming into the country. Might never get my visa...we'll see. Fun time talking to all the new elders around the mission that I don't know at all. And seeing friends and former companions. I haven't seen Elder Bateman forever. He came and left and never got to see him. Nearly all the people in my MTC I didn't see because they stayed in their city for another transfer. Just saw Elder Pettit and Elder James. But it was good. Got some mail, supplies, and a package from Taryn. Thank you. :D Then Wednesday night, back to Arad with my new companion, Elder Olson, from Holiday, UT just like Elder Newton and they actually knew one another before the mission and Elder Newton is just a little younger than him in the mission. By a little bit. Then Thursday, Happy Thanksgiving! It snowed the first time here in Arad! YAY! Super cold and freezing. Visited Ghita that night and Friday night. And we had his baptism on Saturday! Friday night, we tried to fill up the basin with regular water, let it sit and warm up to room tempature, then Saturday morning we would have come and filled it up with hot water so it would have been at least a little warm for the baptism. But Friday night, soon after starting we found some leaks! AH! And so we just drained it and left a little water in it over night. Then Saturday morning, went and bought some duct tape...which in the end would really do nothing, but that's ok. Went to the church about 4.5 hours before the baptism. And taped it up as we could. And then started filling it up. And in the end it wasn't too bad. Just lukewarm and perfect! And everything was all ready to go by 3 o clock. Just a few other problems that kinda worried me. Our baptismal candidate Ghita, was late!!!!!!!!! Luckily he was close and on his way. He arrived about 3:05 and also At 3 o clock at the time we were supposed to start only the 6 missionaries were there. And the Branch President, his wife, and their granddaughter who is a member. Then it seemed right as Ghita arrived about 15 other members all came in and it was a good turnout of members and even their relatives, not really investigators, but nonmembers also came. Yay! The ceremony went smoothly and all was well. It was a great baptism. I am so happy for Ghita and his wife (who was baptized earlier this year). They are going to be so great for the branch. They need that support and love from them. Then yesterday at church, he received the Holy Ghost from the Branch President, Banatean and other men were in the circle, me included and it was a great feeling, when we gave him the Holy Ghost. It is amazing to see the change in his character and even his life, since when we first met out in the foyer of church after a Sacrament meeting. Some weeks he would come to church even when his wife wouldn't come. He is a great guy and I love him. He'll be a great member.
It was a great week for me. There are lots more waiting for me so I should be going now. I love this work so much. And I love the change it brings in peoples' lives. All for the better. The Gospel is such an amazing thing. Study it and learn about it and it'll make you a better person too. I know it's true. I love you all.
Work.
I basically assumed I was staying either way with Elder Schanck leaving or staying because he only has 3 more weeks in his mission. And that is crazy! He will not be spending his last days with me but will be leaving to Galati for 3 weeks and he'll. be. homeeee for Christmaaaas. I love Christmas music. I will be receiving another older missionary with 2 more transfers left, who'll probably be finishing his mission here in Arad. Elder Olson. He is a great Elder and have been able to talk to him a little bit down in Bucuresti at transfers, mission council, and when he was office elder talked to him on the phone a couple times. It's going to be a great transfer. It'll be us two. And it's super crazy Sora Moulton who was trained this transfer here in Arad, will be leaving to Ploiesti (lucky) and serving with another second transfer! Craziness! She speaks the language so so well for a boboaca and she will have no problems. I have no worries for her. And Sora Hickman, this will be her 3rd here like me in Arad and she'll be training another boboaca right out of the mtc. Craziness. I am hoping of going my whole mission without training but we'll see what happens. ;)
It was a great week for me this past week. I can't believe November is coming to a close. I have really loved my zone here in Arad. There are 16 total missionaries with the McFaddens. And 6 are leaving on to other zones. It'll be a good transfer and I am excited to try and get some of these investigators progressing and committing to make the next step to baptism, but we'll see what happens. I will miss Elder Schanck, it was a good two transfers here in Arad. Had some really tough days, but looking back on it I just see the good days. I can't help it. I am positive and it is so important to be positive. All about attitude of gratitude and positivity. Try it some time. It helps, it really helps.
One of our investigators is doing super well. He wants to be baptized this Saturday and we are making all the preparations for that and that'll be super good. Ghita is ready and has the right desire, I am super happy for him. And hopefully next year to go with his wife (baptized this year earlier) to the temple. And hopefully their 7 year old son, nearly 8 will also be baptized. He says he wants to and I might still be here for that. But I am thinking I will have three here, this'll be my last transfer and then I'll be going somewhere else. We'll see.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone. Today we are celebrating with the McFaddens and I believe having a chicken meal because turkeys are too small. Not too sure. We made a really good broccoli salad and an ice cream dessert/elder schanck made them. I supervised. haha.
Yesterday at church, it was super good. I gave a talk and it turns out, I chose my subject, and also Sora Hickman spoke who was assigned her subject and we spoke on the same thing! Supunere/Obedience. It was a great meeting and first hour. Then we also started a class for investigators, 1st time since I have been here, oh and I taught that too, but hopefully that will be a one time thing. It went really well. Sisters are really doing well and have lots of investigators, we had a lot of ours promise they'd be there but never showed up. Sundays are the best and the worst. Translating seems so much like a breeze for the Mcfaddens. Did that for two of the talks. Didn't translate for mine though. haha. I love all the members here so much in Arad. So many solid ones and just awesome people where you see the difference the gospel has made in their lives. I love it and it inspires me. This past week we were able to visit a lot of them and Elder Schanck got pictures with all of them.
Also this past week we had a good exchange in Oradea and a good district meeting with them. I went with Elder McCombs, they first did an exchange and then we came and did another exchange. Usually it's Barney and Taylor together and Eckersley and Mccombs. But when we went, it was Barney with Mccombs and Eckersley with Taylor. So I went with Elder Mccombs and Elder Schanck went with Elder Barney. haha Kinda crazy but it went well and we got some good work done and met some really people in the park, and in the blocs.
I love Arad so much. The city. People. Culture. Way of life. Members. Investigators. Success. And everything else.
Always looking forward to the future. Learning from the past. And living today and making the future possible. I love you Mom and Dad. Happy Anniversary.
And my gift to the Hill's for their anniversary this coming saturday, a baptism. :)
Work.
I'll dedicate this one again to Sam Williams.
Alright, well I never told you, but two weeks ago, we get home one night coming back inside. And we see on the car right outside the apartment, a nice little parking ticket. But for the past two months, we have had no trouble at all. There were no signs saying we had to pay parking, nothing! And usually there will be a place to buy parking stubs/receipts saying you bought it to park there, there was nothing of the sort by our apartment and we thought we didn't have to pay. But we have went about 2 months not paying anything and happily parking the car there. To find a nice parking ticket that one night. The next day we were down in Bucuresti and couldn't pay it within the 48 hours. So we go then late, find the place and not only is it one ticket, but it's two! (the 48 hours rule luckily had no effect or extra fine) The day before we got the ticket on the windshield, we supposedly were fined with another ticket. So we paid for 2 tickets. I took the hit and gave them my license and what not. Not a big deal, because this did not shatter the perfect record of mine of no tickets, no trouble or anything. It wouldn't be a big deal. But little did I know what would happen driving over to Deva.
I receive my first speeding ticket in my life and it's a joke people! I hated that day. I was going 6 over in a town. and I am converting this to mph so it appears smaller than the kmh (those are bigger numbers) haha. So going about 37 in a 30 mph zone. This country needs a freeway. They set up the roads just so they could get tickets and pull people over. I was probably the most scared I have even been in my life, when the cop came to the window. Last year at this time I entered the country November 9th. My visa had a mistake and it expired November 8th of this year instead of 2012. I get pulled over November 9th, a day after my visa expires. It would have been no problem because I had my passport with me with a sheet in it saying my visa is still good, just need to pick it up in Bucuresti. But oh oh wait. I didn't have my passport with that little sheet in it. My heart was beating alright! But I live to tell another day, the cop never asked for it thankfully and I was blessed, technically illegal but with that sheet that I now carry with me at all times, I will have no problems. I am sorry Sam, I used to be perfect. "Even the best fall down sometimes" are the only words that come to my mind. But it makes for a great story. So for km it's 50 km in a village and there are tons of villages on this road, normally I think it's 90 or 100 outside of villages. They had me clocked at 67. Everyone speeds. Right after I got pulled over I am driving through another village and a big semi is behind me with another 6 or 7 cars, I am going 50 for about halfway through and then he is flashing his lights at me and honking, not too happy that I was following the speed limit, so I speed up the later end of the Sat. ugh.
DUMB! haha everyone speeds, even through the villages. but I knew I would get a ticket some day and it had to happen on my mission. I'm not mad. Find joy in the journey.
It was a great week. I love Arad. I love my mission. Ghita will be baptized next week. I love my zone. I love my companion. I love this gospel. I love my family and my friends. I love you all and hope you have a great week. Never forget to read your scriptures. It'll make the difference in your day. I promise.
I love life.
Love,
Elder Schroedter
Drive safe Sam and get to the building. ;)
Well. This week has gone by all too fast and too slow at the same time. I felt like we were always doing something this past week. And I think with a trip today to Lipova kinda stretched out the week for some odd reason. I spend too much time on trains. But yeah, today it was a good turnout, some crazy things happened with Timisoara Elders and they uh kinda, missed their train, unfortunately so they were not able to make it out to Lipova. But all Arad made it with the McFaddens (glad they made it! :)) With Oradea, and Deva too. It was a good stay. I love the cetate(fortress) there in Lipova/Radna. Also called the "Cetatea Soimos" It was my third time going, but it was a lot of fun. It was Elder Schanck's second time. And that was our Preparation Day. Now we have to hurry to shop and then try and meet with some investigators!!!!!!!!!!
Yesterday, was so great at church! Ghita was there with his fam, they stayed for two hours. They are in the middle of trying to move. Not the best living conditions, he is so humble and such a great guy. Recently lost one of his jobs. His wife was baptized earlier this year. He was not interested at all and this past week, Elder Schanck and I had two really good lessons with him. He has awesome potential....meaning he wants to be baptized, we didn't even invite him. Another cool and great story. Two members got together one day and they themselves a couple weeks ago had a lesson with them. Missionary work, it's all about the members! Don't take my word, take Pres. former Elder Gii Bii Hinckley! Missionary work NOT EQUAL tracting. Therefore, I refuse to knock another door. It's all about the members. haha just kidding. Romania is not ready at all for just member work and finding people through the members. Someday though. I know it. I'll be knocking on my fair share of doors. Don't you worry. (I feel bad Not Gii, but President Gordon B. Hinckley) Ghita is a funny guy, his son Cristi is a tough one and he has so much patience with him. He will be a great member here soon.
And another family that I have met with a couple times, mainly the husband and the sisters have worked with the Mom and Daughter. They are relatives of members, son of a member and they will also be getting baptized soon! I am super excited for them and can't wait. He is a great guy and we have done service over there a few times.
Oh yeah, me and Elder Schanck went down to Bucuresti. Not a big deal. I'll spare you train details. I was so dumb though, real quick, I'll share. We go to a place near our house that deals with trains where you can buy tickets and I ask for 1st class...I simply fail to mention that we want sleeping carts 1st class. And I don't understand, I thought the lady would have at least helped me out a bit! So we ended up just buying 1st class, wonderful normal seat tickets! :S So then it works everytime, we just go to the sleeping cabin, 2nd class and we ask the conductor if there are any seats/beds open, people don't always show up and we got two beds for the night going down and did the same thing going back up to Arad. They need some new trains! It should not take up 12 hours to travel 600 km. My opinion. Maybe I am wrong and have my distances a little off, but I didn't think it took that long. Yes, for those who did the average 50 km/hr. I don't judge. I will come back graduated and build some railways? Sounds like a pretty good deal to me. I was wrong, usually about 11 hour train ride, but consistently an hour delay will happen, changing that to 12 hours, usually a little more than 600, I am being generous. So yeah, still 50 km/hr. haha. You probably think I hate this country and its public transportation. but actually this country has changed me. I say things how they are. Haha, Captain Obvious is my new nickname they call me. But seriously, don't hate me. I give facts. I got sites, photos, time trackers, tickets, and money as proof. Anyways.
I think every night of this past week I was not able to get a full night's sleep but I am surviving and loving every second of it. Two nights on the train. Last night. It was a good night, just didn't quite get much sleep. But other than that, I'll be sleeping well tonight and this coming week. Planned for an exchange to Deva so that should be good! :D
For every week in my mission (nearly every week) we have district meetings as a district, 4, 6, 8 missionaries, depends where you are. This week Elder Schanck gave an awesome district meeting. Really probably one of my favorites. I love that kid. He is so much more humbler than me and it makes me even more humbler. I don't judge, but I do. And I am trying to be better. It really has been great being companions with him. He knows so much. And he has taught me so so so much. I really do love him.
Two weeks ago. I was upset, but don't worry. I am not anymore. I get over things pretty quickly. Don't judge others when we stand imperfectly. Everyone is trying to be better. Be humble and don't judge. It's about love for others.
Everyone have a great week. I love you all.
Heart. Might. Mind. Strength.
Work.
This past week went well for myself. Last monday we went delivering treats to some members, kinda sprinkling but went in and out of semi solid rainfall. not downpour. or pouring. or sheets. cats and dogs. or as i say, "buckets" of rain. Just slightly more than a pleasant drizzle. If you understand. It was enough rain to walk around in about 30 minutes, trying to find a member or two and getting soaked in the meantime because I did not want to use my umbrella, my hands were already full carrying the brownies, a book of mormon and a bible and i couldn't afford the umbrella. Not too fitting for the situation. But I survived and haven't really had much of occasion to get soaked in my freshly dry cleaned suit. But all in all, and honestly the suit I was wearing. I have two, blue and black. Got the black one dry cleaned and it was in need of a wet-clean. Anyways, that was a good night and it was enjoyable visiting and getting lost trying to find the wonderfully planned out addresses in this beautiful city of Arad. You don't even know. Some numbers/letters/symbols...ok no symbols. But they follow usually no pattern at all!!!!!!!!!!!! Frustrating, but I have gotten pretty good at finding addresses. I just think about it logically where I would think it would be and just go the opposite direction and I have doubts that it never works, but it always does. I do love this country so much of Romania. It is so different here in Banat (timisoara, arad) comparing to Ardeal (brasov) and Oltenia (bucuresti) I love the west of the country. Arad and Timisoara might be my favorites. But we'll see.
I was sick after my stroll in the rain, my sinuses are normal and vitals, normal and all back to good health. :)
Started up english this week and that went alright. Not the best turn out for medium class but beginner was well for the Sisters. And the advanced class is about the same for the McFaddens. Hopefully one of our referrels we contacted from the office will go somewhere. He is interested in English and reading from the Book of Mormon. haven't met with him, but he came to the first English class and I thought he enjoyed it. We will have to see how he is doing and try to set up this week. He has some potential and also one of his neighbors we were talking to for a while, she might go somewhere too.
This past week was frustrating in the fact that none of the 8 solid investigators that we have couldn't meet up. It's very frustrating. But that just means me and Elder Schanck, we have to keep working and find new investigators. We have good relationships with most of the members and need to try and seek out their friends if they will listen to our message. Lots of finding and contacting people. With winter coming in, we will be in the blocs a lot. And doing vilas still. And contacting people on the street. This part of the country is great, because people will stop on the street, there is simply no excuse that we do not have investigators to regularly meet with and talk to.
Last night we had a good visit with Paul. From Timisoara, lived in the states for a long time. And he came to church last week. I met with him a couple times in tTmisoara, now he lives here and we are working with him. Great older guy, just some issues he is still stuck on in the past. Great guy though. We'll see.
It was great to visit Timisoara for an exchange with Elder Nemrow, I loved our two exchanges we had in Constanta and he followed me over to the west side of the country. We visited with Ana, she is doing well. Irina, mom of a member that I used to work with. Said she'd come to church. Two younger girls, very religious, interested in English, and the Book of Mormon as well. And then visited Sora Gabi there, a member. We got a lot done and hoping Elder Nemrow will be able to meet with all those people too. It was a full busy day and I always love going back to that city. I know I don't serve there anymore, but I can still love it. Right now I am blooming where I was planted nearly two months ago. Arad!
Last friday with the young single adults and other members that felt like coming. there was a great turnout for the Halloween party for the ysa. Lots of nonmembers, friends of the youth. At that same time, Assistants, President, and Sora Hill were here doing interviews, so I missed out in the party but interviews were great. I love the Assistants, Newton and Finch. And Sora and President Hill are great. So loving and kind and sincere people. It was great to visit with them for the little time we spent.
Then yesterday was a great Sunday. Pres. Banatean. Newly called Branch President conducted beautifully the meeting. I played the piano as the pianist was not there. But he did a great job. For the combined 5th sunday lesson Elder McFadden did really well. Talking about the Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood. I helped translate for him and we gave out oil to those who didn't have it. And also we consecrated and set apart the oil. Lots of members have the Priesthood and we wanted to encourage them to realize they have it. The blessings they can receive having it and to USE it! It was a great Sunday.
I hope all of you are doing well. Have a wonderful week with work, school, family, friends, and life's activities. This week was pretty uneventful here in Arad. but I am trying my hardest and I know I can be trying even harder. Heart. Might. Mind. Strength.
Work.
Hello one and all. It felt weird this past week to not be changing companions. I am grateful to stay another 6 weeks with Elder Schanck. He's a great missionary and I can't believe this is kinda his last transfer! He'll have 3 more weeks after to make it home before Christmas! Like serving with an Elder Chase Anderson. Crazy. But things are all going well. Nothing too much new. It was a great week this past week. I love the branch mission leader. Edi. He is such a great member and has recently come back from inactivity. He has a great fire for missionary work and loves to go out with us. His girlfriend/soon to be wife in a month isn't for the church at all, and that really gets him down but I tell him not to worry about it and all things will work out. Don't even fret! But he is the best. We went and visited his grandma in the hospital last week and she was able to go home and we went over to her house and shared a great message all about the Savior and the Atonement. And after that visit with her (she is not a member) we went to visit another one of his friends, Roli, who he grew up with and they are really good friends. He has been taught in the past and is really at a low in his life. Edi was making similar choices to what Roli was doing and then found the church and joined it a little after his father. But Roli is a great young man and I could see the effects that life had had on him. It was a great visit full of the Spirit and one of my favorite lessons ever. We didn't force anything on him. I had met him before but basically just getting to know him and listen. I like Roli a lot. Yesterday Ghita came to church, a husband of a recent convert. He is kind of our investigator, but can simply never meet up due to work, but I see him getting baptized soon. We need some new investigators and working with the members - active and less-active I know we can get some more people for us to teach.
Studying the scriptures is so important. I am nearly all caught up with General Conference. Slowly watching all of the talks going over to the McFaddens or after e-mail. But I have really loved this past General Conference. It was super good and can't wait for the magazines to come! Reading the scriptures and messages will change your life if you just let it. The more we read the Bible the more we realize how much sense it makes - the need for the Book of Mormon. I love reading out of all the 4 standard works. They are truly inspired of God. I love my study time so much. Read Alma 33 this morning along with some some 2 Samuel. And rereading and studying Preach My Gospel again. Just make and find that desire to believe and it will grow. Faith. Plant the word in your hearts. It's the small and simple things of reading the scriptures and praying that really make the difference. Never forget to read.
Things are looking well for this transfer here in Arad. It will be one to remember forever.
This week we will be going down to Bucuresti for a conference with 2 other zones on Thursday to listen to Elder Jose A. Teixeira and coming back to Arad that evening. And then next Sunday will be District Conference with Pres. Hill (Arad, Timisoara, Oradea, and Deva) Looking forward to this week adn making it simply a great one! I love being a missionary. Thanks for all the letters family and friends. Mom and Dad. And Caleb with the beautiful drawings. Grant with loving notes. Thanks to the family in Texas. Marissa and Garrett in Utah. Shelby in California and Taryn in Texas. And to everyone else. Thanks for all the support, prayers, and love. I love you all so much.
Make it what you want it.
It was a great week this past week here in Arad. I love service so much and love having the opportunities to serve others. I'll tell you more later on.
Finding out transfers today, I'll be staying with Elder Schanck for another transfer. This is his last full transfer and I hope to make it a good one for him. I have been so used to changing companions after 6 weeks but it'll be better to stay with him and get things going here in Arad. Working more with the members, feeding the sheep, and finding those lambs. So my district here in Arad. Me. Elder Schanck. Sora Puckett and Sora Hickman. Sora Puckett is in Bucuresti, having an interview, her last P-day, Chisinau, testimony meeting, and on a plane this wednesday. Sora Hickman is there with her, This Wednesday she will pick up a new missionary straight from the MTC and will be going senior and training. She is a great missionary and will do a great job. I think she is a little overwhelmed though with it. She'll be fine. A former companion, Elder Newton will be moving into the Office with Elder Finch.... For other missionaries, I really don't feel like telling you where everyone is. It would just be a name anyways to you. ;) But for new missionaries and leaving missionaries. Just two sisters are leaving, Puckett and Hansen. 2 of my favorites. And 5 sisters missionaries are coming in! Soon actually as I am typing this they will wake up and get on a plane leaving the MTC. No new elders coming in. Sad day. But none leaving, so we will just be staying the same.
And actually next week I will be going down to Bucuresti for a conference. 3 zones! Mine-Arad, Sibiu, and Chisnau will all we coming down to Buc and another Elder will be joining us if you have heard the name of Elder Teixeira, he will be talking to us all on the 20th. The 19th he'll be talking to the 3 other zones. Bacau, Buc East and West. So I am excited to meet him and learn more and more next week. There is a Zone Leader and District Leader training separate. Excited for that too. I was sad none of you accepted my invitation to a zone conference a couple weeks ago. That's ok none of you showed up. No biggie. Nbd.
Anyways. This past week was great as usual. Huge change in the weather. From Monday to Friday it was beautiful. A little too hot for my liking- 80 degrees. Morning and evening at about 65 or so. Perfect. Then Saturday morning huge drop! About a 30 degree drop. Craziness. This morning I think it was about 40 degrees and it'll warm up to about 45 or so. I bet it snows at least once here in October...we'll see. I was talking to the McFaddens and Sora Hill yesterday. There was a senior couple conference/vacation/retreat/visit/i dont know at Brasov. I do know though it was informative and things will be changing and using and taking more advantage of their experience in the branches they are serving. I was talking to them and my home of Brasov. It was snowing!!!!!!!!!!! And in Bucuresti Friday before the cold front, it was about 95 degrees or so one day, super hot! It's crazy! I love the fall time, too bad there wasn't much of it here in Arad, basically straight to winter!
Church yesterday was seriously one of my most favorites yet. I wanted to bear my testimony but there was no time. Members that hadn't gotten up there in so long went up and bore beautiful testimonies. I loved it so much and they were are all reasonable and not story-monies. They were powerful and great testimonies. I love all my members here in Arad. They are the best!
For last Monday, we helped Sora Elizabeta push some sand and get ready for a crew to come in to put in a pipe. We used shovels to move sand from a plot of dirt just to part of the driveway area. I was working up quite a sweat and me and Elder Schanck did that for about 2 hours or so with water breaks. Then the next day we came back, she had help from a few other people dig the hole. We just got it all ready for the hole to be dug. And then out front we moved a ton of rocks and dirt. Using shovels and putting it in a wheel barrel and moving it a little bit on the other side of the pile of rocks so the water pipe could come in. It was good service and we got to know some of her neighbors and another one of her daughters. She is a great member and her children have some good potential for future members. We'll see about that.
And again we volunteered at a shelter helping the lady there and her husband. Seems like every time we go there, something crazy is going down. Every day is another adventure over there. I always love going there and making new friends and seeing old ones that are regulars that come to the shelter. It'd be super hard to keep that place going. Lots of love and patience to run that place. I have a lot of respect for her.
It was a great week and especially it being a birthday of someone I hold very near and dear to my heart. My life would never be the same without.......him in my life. haha Elder Schanck. I know it's late and it's already past and I already told you so many times before. But Happy Birthday. October 8th!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yeah...hope you all have a great week. I plan on doing the same. :)
"Everything is okay in the end; if it's not okay, it's not the end."
Mă iubiţi.
It was a great week this past week. Just a full breakfast and lunch of the good word of God. I love General Conference and was grateful I was able to view about half of it. Both morning sessions. And half of Priesthood session. Some great talks and great words were said. I think Robert D. Hales really hit me hard and so many ways I can relate his message for the people here in Romania. It's a great question of life about sufferings, challenges and concerns. I loved hearing the scriptures quotes such as Mosiah 2:17 Service. And Mosiah 3:19 about becoming as a child and putting off the natural man. A constant theme, as well as Proverbs 3:5-6. I recommend to all of you. To listen to the talk about the Book of Mormon in the Sunday Morning Conference. Tad R. Callister. Super good. Can't wait for them to be translated and put on the dvds to be sent to us here in Romania. So many people need to hear those messages that were given. We need to preach His gospel.
It was a great week for me here in Arad. Zone Conference went really well. Our presentation went well along with the other zone leaders. A bit from the Assistants and President and Sora Hill. It was a great week and lots of great words given to us from our leaders. Still just working hard and talking to people everyday, inviting to come closer to Jesus Christ. It has been a tough one here in Arad for my first transfer but I have built some good relationships with the members and trying to find the lambs and feed the sheep. All these members are recent converts. I would say 99 percent here in Romania. I love all of them and look up to all the members here. I try not to judge but just love them. It's hard when you know exactly how it needs to be run and want to just do it, but you can't. Just support and try and help them out the very best I can. And that is through service and teaching the word of God to them. I love this work so much and it's not about the numbers at all, but about God's children and loving every single one of them. Everyone is at a different stage and they all need our help. They simply don't understand. I love getting to know random people in parks, sitting with them on a bench, knocking on their door, and stopping people on the street. Some days are tough and I don't want to do it. But I just do it. There's no secret of making it easier-to talk to a random stranger-but to simply do it. I love this work and want everyone to be as happy as I am. Living the Gospel and following Christ. I love my job so much and I love the people of Arad.
Hope you all had a great week. I love you all. Be a good example.
Some of the downs of all these exchanges with other missionaries 100 miles away, usually less, is that time is lost. You can't help it. It's tough contacting up and down the train wagons, only so many people. And while driving in the car while passing a semi giving them something to read. It's tough, not impossible. Trust me. Just tough. ;) haha. Something is good though is going through past investigators and calling them up. I can't do it driving so I put my companion on it and call away. Not a waste of time at all. Because normally we would be at home doing it. Nothing really different than in the car. But what I wanted to say about driving time, travel, and changes in schedules. Is some days I lose my studies! One of the many things I have learned on my mission is a appreciation for the scriptures. People can tell you what every verse means and read it to you. Have manuals and pictures. And movies. But nothing compares with just reading the scriptures and preferably, "studying" the scriptures. Often times I do read the scriptures, but studying them is where it's at. I love the scriptures so much and I love that time set apart everyday for us to read from them. The scriptures are so true and we can always learn something from them and they have all the answers for all the questions we would ever have in life. I love the Book of Mormon. Old Testament. New Testament. Doctrine and Covenants. and Pearl of Great Price. Make time to study the scriptures everyday. Even if you work all day. There is always time to read from the scriptures. You can't make excuses. There is always free time in anyone's day. Anyone and everyone. Even me.
It was a good week this past week here in the beautiful city of Arad. Great weather. Hot during the days about 80-90s but at night it is beautiful and cools down quite a bit. Fall is finally coming. About time! Not a whole lot of investigators here but we are working with some great people that need this message so much. A younger and cool guy named Darius. I like him a lot. Been a while since we met with him and hopefully he is still interested. Another investigator left for a month to work in Italy. Another, a husband of a member is kinda not interested because she is gone in America working. Talked to him a few times and he has some potential. Here in a Arad. Not a whole lot going for us. But we keep on working. Knocking on doors. Talking to people on the street. In the parc. And English class. Not to strong this session, but hopefully we'll get some interest from it. Just keep on trucking.
Had a great exchange with the District Leader companionship in Oradea. Drove up there after English Tuesday night and we had a great exchange all of Wednesday. Then we stayed the night again Wednesday night and drove back down Thursday morning. I was with Elder Barney. A great elder and he is really good at the language. He's 2 transfers behind me (6th) and then my companion Elder Schanck went with his boboc/trainee Elder Taylor. He is also a great missionary and doing well at the language for his first transfer. Oradea is one of the strongest branches in the mission and I am hoping to be able to serve there. Branch President is awesome. Met him and a couple other members. And then Friday was driving! We went over to Deva and did a baptismal interview for a young woman (17) who got baptized last Saturday. She is a great girl and has lots of faith. It was a great interview and I could really feel the help of the Spirit guiding the conversation and my words. Baptism went well and she was confirmed just yesterday in church.
All in all, I am loving life even if it appears I don't have any success at all. As long as I have no regrets and know I tried my hardest and work with all my heart, might, mind, and strength. I know I will have success in my eyes and in God's eyes. Just maybe not in others' eyes. I love you all and thank you for your support and prayers. I love my family so much. Dad and Mom. Shelby. Garrett. Marissa. Grant. and Caleb. I love you. Have a great week.
Zone Conference for me here in Arad. All the missionaries are coming to me! From Arad, Oradea, Deva, Timisoara, Brasov, Sibiu, and Cluj-Napoca. Looking forward to it and to my and Elder Schanck's presentation. You are all invited! Just call me when you fly in, drive in, or arrive. Tuesday night or Wednesday morning. All are invited. (Every member a missionary.)
Make time for studies.
Millie! I love you and hope you have a great birthday this Thursday! Big 1. Loves.
So while at a member's home with her son and his basically wife and daughter I was learning some Hungarian, but I can't do that! Haha, I want to really bad so I can talk with them, but I know I still need to work on Romanian. But I know if I am to serve in Moldova (Chisinau or Orhei) I am going to learn some Russian even if I didn't want to. I'll stick with Romanian for now and maybe after I get home I'll pick up the Hungarian. I hear with Finnish they are the two hardest languages to learn in Europe. Too many languages! I just need the language of the Spirit and I am good. I was though seriously considering it, buying some Hungarian grammar books and starting from the basics but I reconsidered and know I need to study Romanian. Dont' worry. I think I am ok at Romanian and people can understand me and just call me Romanian all day, but I can always get better (although I just don't know how...hmmm gotta think outside the box and probaby just read the dictionary) But anyways I am not the best at all. Although I do love those compliments when they say I don't have an accent at all. They are like what the? How do you know more words than me in my own language? Just daily occasions I always look forward to. Anyways. I stay humble. Most humble person you will ever meet.
That family is kinda close to baptism, that we are working with. They simply need to understand the basics. It's kinda hard because we aren't always trying to push baptism but his mom is always pushing it! Hai hai hai! (or let's go!) Get baptized already. Sheesh lady, it's his choice. Just take it easy! But they aren't married with an eleven year old daughter. So....uh they need to get married first. Living under the same roof. But we are still workign with them, meeting about once or week, they are regularly at church.
Met an awesome family on an exchange with Elder Nelson who is serving in Deva (wow he's been there 6 months! was there since I was in Timisoara) But we had a busy exchange knocking on vilas and found a really open and nice family that live not too far from us. I love the people that God puts in your path. I know in daily plans you have to be specific so God knows your plans and can help you out throughout your day. But like for our exchange, we were general and just said we wanted to go knock in the vilas. And I chose the street. And we find these awesome people. Huge family and lots of kids and grandkids. We are taking it slow with them. Just met them and want them to really understand. Hopefully they will go somewhere.
We met with an investigator. Really cool younger guy. Just needs to keep reading and pray about it to get a testimony. He's really cool and likes to hang out and play some ping pong.
Other than that is was a good week. This week we are heading up to Oradea for an exchange with the District Leader up there. Elder Barney. And then actually going out to Deva again just for a baptismal interview for a youth girl getting baptized this saturday. She's 17 and super solid I hear. I'll meet her this week and tell you how it goes! Yay!
Zone Conference next week here in Arad. Everyone is coming to us. No travel for us here.
Be strong and of good courage. Joshua in the old testament is the best and I wonder if it was sometimes necessary to conquer all those nations, but it's the past and you can't change it. I love that phrase though repeated in the first chapter. Be strong and of good courage. For the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. Never be dismayed, discouraged, or afraid. God is always with you. Find comfort in that phrase and be a little more stronger and be more courageous. I love you all and hope you have a great week because I will too.
I love service. Nothing better than to forget about yourself and serve others. Lots of fun. Didn't capture any of the acts, but you can take my word it all happened. Or did it? But first off, being an awesome week because I went to my city!!!!!!!! TIMISOARA. Oh, how I missed you so. It was great to meet up with a few past investigators. And see some of the members. I love that city so much for some reason. And it felt so good to be there after about 3 months of being away, I bet after I leave Arad, I'll never be able to go back again. But we'll see. I'll just finish the rest of my mission here in Arad, I really wouldn't mind that. I'll talk to Prez. But yeah, it was a good exchange with the District Leader there. Elder Schanck went with Elder Nemrow. And I went with a new missionary Elder McCombs and I like him a lot. Great missionary and still learning the language. Great desire and attitude about everything. I love exchanges so much and get to help other missionaries and they help me as well at the same time, trying to figure out what works for me and how I can be better. All about progression throughout our lives. Not a competition, some just learn faster than others. Can't be always comparing ourselves with others. Should be comparing ourselves with ourselves. I like the transfer period of 6 weeks, because every transfer I want to be better and see all that I did and just keep on trucking and progressing to be a better missionary. I'll never get it perfect, but I will manage. This week for an exchange we are headed to Deva! The car is there now, so i'll drive back to be here in Arad and then go back again to pick up Elder Schanck and back, I think about 2.5 hour drive. With me driving...probably 1. I do obey the laws, don't worry. Just time somehow slows down? I don't really know how I get everywhere so quick. Actually I feel bad, I got going so fast sometimes when driving from Bucuresti to Constanta, don't judge me. I just follow the car in front of me and then look down at the odometer, and just like ah crap. Gotta slow down! No tickets though and don't plan on it. All about not only defensive driving, but smart driving if you know what I mean. I love driving. Haha Back to service, people! It's awesome and every week you should be giving service! Especially as missionaries, you'll have such better weeks and you will be so much happier. I am really happy from giving service. After our exchange in Timisoara, that next day we went over to a member's house kinda over by the church west side of Arad, close to the airport (google map that!) And it is a nice vila that she lives in and we just went to town! Picking grapes for about an hour and a half! Killing flies and wasps. Elder Schanck got stung. We filled up so many of those containers! sheesh. The member is an older lady and she has 4 children. One is a member that lives other side of town. 2 others somewhere in Arad. And her son lives with her, we are working with him and he is so close to baptism. Might be heading out to Italia for a bit. And his wife is interested as well along with their daughter. And the sisters are working with them as well. And another member was over there Grandma's niece. But there were 7 of us out there in the courtyard type thing and just picking grapes. We did it with our hand for a little bit, we wouldn't pick individual grapes, but we would pick the whole...ah can't think of the word in english!!!!!!! whole bushel of grapes? the...mass of grapes...bundle...something of grapes. Anyways. We picked a lot of grapes and then later that day we went to recent converts house husband, wife, and daughter are all members and helped them paint a room in their house adn then to put together thier bed, and a desk, later when we left and the next days they put together a dresser and closet type thing. Really nice furniture and it was fun putting the desk together with no instructions. Two easy. Then also we volunteered at this shelter place where missionaries in the past would volunteer, we are trying to set up a schedule to go every week or so, when she needs us. That's a great story another day. Ask me about it sometime. It's about the senior couple that just got in two weeks ago - the McFaddens. Still helping them out a lot, I am them computer man and we are working on getting conference and trying somehow to hook it up to the tv. Project for my free time. I love them a lot, served us breakfast this week again. They are too nice. And last Saturday we had a good branch activity with lots of pizza, snacks, drinks, and free getting beat in ping pong by me. I lost one game, tired of winning I guess. Just kinda a natural thing I have to stop winning every now and again. Let other people feel the glory. But yeah, it was a good activity. Sam, we gotta play ping pong! I think it'll be about 3 years till that happens. Anyways. Activity was good, some less actives came out and glad they were there. Then yesterday church is always good and I love going. Pres Geambasu (1st counselor in district presidency) came down, always loved it when he would come when I was in Timisoara. But he gave a great talk. He knows what he's talking about and it's really important for him to come and correct how things run with new members and branch leaders. I like him a lot. And all in all it was a great week. I love this work and have need or more investigators here in Arad. Working with branch members and their families and hopefully we'll see some success from that this transfer. People are really close here. Especially where we went and did service for the grapes. I love it here in Arad and looking forward to do all that I can to help the branch here in anyway I can. I love you all and hope you have a great week. I will too.
It was a great week ending in Mihai Bravu and beginning here in Arad. I arrived here Thursday morning and I love it here so much. The McFaddens (Senior Couple) were going to come up with us on the same train, but they stayed one more night in Bucuresti and came up on Friday morning. It was a lot of fun taking them around. They just arrived in the country Tuesday and haven't even been here a week. It was in the sense that everything that they saw and what not, it was all new to them. And I don't know. I loved those first few weeks, getting adjusted to the area and country. It's funny and amusing to me. That's why I love young companions, when something happens and it's just crazy and so bizarre for them, but for me it's just everyday stuff. I love new missionaries when they come into the country. With the Howell's leaving to Ploiesti, the McFaddens took their apartment. They live pretty close to us. Getting off the train that came late on Friday, we took two taxis to our apartment. Then discussed stuff. Went and had lunch. They met up with the propiertara (landlady) Talked with her for a while at their apartment. Then back to our apartment, brought over all the luggage and other things for them, printer, appliances and what not. Then after that, did some shopping with them. And took up our whole day. And I am grateful I have been blessed to know Romanian. I couldn't do it. 3rd day in the country and all on your own with another boboc. Although it would be the best companion in the world, it'd be tough having no idea where anything is and not really being able to communicate. But it's easier here in Romania, lots of the younger generation know English and even the older one. But still, it would be tough. I love the McFaddens a lot they are a great couple and want to help out here in Romania. They have 7 kids, 15 grandkids and soon to be 17 total. They are awesome. I like them a lot and it's going to be a fun transfer with them. Elder McFadden is so funny. They had us over with the Sisters this morning to have breakfast. Too kind. They are from Utah.
My companion is awesome! I love him a lot. Elder Schanck. He is a great missionary. We get along great and things are going well here in Arad and in the Arad zone. I am looking forward so much to this transfer and trying to work our hardest and making a difference. I love this work and I love the west. The church is true. I know it.
Busy week traveling and getting settled in, but getting ready to put the pedal to the medal. Using members more and more. And building the church! It's gonna be a great week this week. Going down probably to Timisoara on an exchange. I wish I had longer than 24 hours to try and visit everyone! It's going to be awesome! From the time I left 3 months ago, there have been 2 baptisms. No one I found or worked with I think. Not too sure. But I hear they are doing really well the missionaries, branch, city in general.
I love Arad. Everyday this is going to happen. Alma 8:5
I can't wait. Have an awesome future ahead of me. Going to the beautiful city of Arad. Been there on multiple occasions for Zone Conference, District Conference while serving in Timisoara. And I have the great blessing and opportunity to be visiting not only Deva and Oradea, but also Timisoara. A dream come true to return to that city. I have heard great things about Arad and am really looking forward to it. I will be with Elder Schank, he has been a branch president in Bacau and he is in the same group as Elder Veenendaal. I can't believe my group, we are all growing up so fast! This transfer was Me, Elder Green and Fonnesbeck as zone leaders. Now Elder Mikolyski and Nilsson are joining us. I love my cities here so much Constanta and Ploiesti. They are both so awesome and have sweet members and investigators. I'll miss them both and especially here in Mihai Bravu. They are the best ever and I love all of the members so much. Great people and I can't wait to come back to visit. I know I'll be back. Have plenty of time to do that. Another big group of missionaries are coming in. 8 elders and 3 soras. So lots of trainers again. And another senior couple that will be joining me in Arad. Little chapped off because the senior couple now in Arad (the Howells) will be moving to work in Ploiesti! Sure! Right when I get there, they leave me! I always loved talking with them when they came down to Timisoara or when I went up to Arad. They are awesome people. In my district right now us 6 missionaries I am the only one leaving! Elder Newton will be with Elder Nilsson. Elder Lee remains with Jones and Sora Hansen will be with Sora Holman. I'll miss them. Can't believe it's Sora Hansen's last transfer already! Sheesh!
It was a good week this past week. Talking to lots of people and meeting all of the sorts and all cool ones and some a little not so receiving and nice, but that's alright. I focus on the positive as always. Finally made contact again with Florin, after three weeks...and as I leave! Hopefully he'll be baptized here soon. Silvia finally answered her phone and she is doing well. Hope she meets up with us again....And many others. Mircea is so awesome and golden. Iulian. Harry. Carmen. Corina. There are so many people we meet with every day and consistently. They are so close!
I wish I could sometimes make people read the Book of Mormon. My job is to invite them, and simply by bearing testimony, they will want to realize it. And those elect will realize it. Nothing can ever make you believe. We all need to read the Book of Mormon. It'll change your life only if you let it. Never forget that. Read it as a history book, sure. But the next time read it as you would the Bible, study it and meditate (chibzuiti) upon the message of it. You can know that what it contains is true. If you believe in Christ, you WILL believe in these words. You can study all the history of the people related to the book, the prophets during that time and relatives, but they were simply working and doing what God told them to do. You have an amazing opportunity. To hold the proof of their work. And if it's true, the rest is history. Just read it.
English class ended last Saturday. It went well, no investigators from it but hopefully next time, I hear the classes are doing well up in Arad. Excited to see! I still can't believe I am going there! When Elder Betteridge became zone leader he started here in Mihai Bravu for two, the Arad for two, then back to Panduri (Bucuresti West....) We shall see what happens in the near future. Like Father, Like Son. And I plan on living up to that phrase. All three of my Fathers.
Next time, I'll just be two steps in Arad. I love you Mihai Bravu and Bucuresteni!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Have a great week because I will too. You get out of it what you want to.
Haha well, it was a crazy week! From my group from the MTC (12 of us) 11 remain in the country and 2 of us are in Bucuresti. Me and Elder Lee. And the office elders when we came into the country, actually my past companion Elder Veenendaal and Elder Boehme. They messed up on our visas and instead of two years they only had the visas last one year. So this past week on a two day exchange with Elder Lee we went with the Office Elders to get our visas renewed. (elders miner and herman) We went and did what we did the first week in the country. To the hospital to get our physical and then the next day to go to the visa place and do all that stuff. So we got very lucky and things all went through and I will be able to finish my mission for another year. Other wise I would have had to go home in November and finsih off my mission in the States, if that. But I am glad I will be staying another year.
I apologize, last week, huge holiday, don't know how I could forget. The mother of the Lord! Mother Mary! But it was a pretty big thing here and everyone got off work and caused us to change some of our plans for P-day, not able to do all that we wanted. Oh well. But it was a good holiday, did nothing special. Hope you all enjoyed yours.
Like I said we had a good exchange with Elder Lee and not only did visa work but able to do lots of contacting and visited a member family, part member. The Firaru's. I like them a lot. Awesome family. Had a couple good lessons in Parcul Cismigiu and contacting others all on the way. Then me and Elder Newton are working on visiting all the members in Mihai Bravu....all the members in our Sector. Sector 2. Which is a ton of people and lots of work that we have cut out for us. I hope I stay another with Newton to get it started for future missionaries. I am excited to see what happens. Lots of less actives we have to work with here especially in Bucuresti.
English classes are small but we have some faithful and really cool students. no investigators from it, but they stay for spiritual thoughts and we try and make it fun, teaching the advance class this time around.
Church, about to hurt somebody! I translated again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Not only for the Wolsey's but also for President and Sora Hill! Fratele Stanciu knows I can do it so he just makes me do it. But I like it and makes me really listen and just getting me ready for general conference in a couple years when i'll be translating there....maybe. Last night again we went Plan of Salvation contacting this time in Parcul Tineretului, lots of cool people we met and got some phone numbers and a few appointments. Lots of people came up to us and I love drawing it and talking to people.
It was an awesome week. Elder Newton and I are working hard and I am loving it. Just trying to work hard and do what's right. Love my study time. Now in Numbers in the Old testament. Alma in the Book of Mormon. And Chapter 3 in Preach My Gospel. I love it and love learning. Hope you all have a great week this week! I love all of you. Thursday'll be such a good day! Make it a good one! I will too.
Thanks Mom so much for all you do.
