June 12, 2017

 Jackson & Elder Parker Wallentine from Brigham City, UT

 Mission Conference with Elder Renlund

 Jose

Well this week was busy with baseball and wrestling and football. Carson had wrestling camp from 930-330 everyday and weightlifting at 8-9 everyday. Baseball games on Tuesday and Thursday. And baseball tournament in Idaho falls Friday and Saturday.
Wednesday when I picked him up from wrestling camp for lunch he had a meltdown and was crying that he was so tired and please don't me me go back. But I told him that sometimes in life we are exhausted but we've made commitments that have to be taken care of even when it's hard. He went but wasn't happy about it.
I think all in all he learned a lot and had fun. He said one of the kids he was partners with some of the week was just trying to beat him up and not really wrestling but he still had a pretty good attitude.
The Idaho falls tournament was a bust. The kids that wanted to be there played hard but there were a couple that didn't want to be there and they drug the whole team down. It was a pretty sour note to end on. But Carson had some great plays and great hits to end the season. I think he had 2 or 3 doubles, a couple singles, a walk, and intentional HBP (the catcher walked out to the pitcher when he got up to bat and the next pitch he got drilled in the hip)- seriously bad form.  Broke up 2 double plays sliding into 2nd; the one he took out the 2nd baseman perfectly. It was awesome.
We came home Saturday afternoon about 5 and we were all exhausted from the week so we decided to chill for a bit. We all fell asleep- I woke up at 10:42pm and went to the office and got paperwork situated and came back him and went back to bed. Dad woke up and got ready for bed. Carson just stayed asleep Til 7am Sunday morning. We all must have been pretty tired. Sunday we went to Macey's farewell. It was a great meeting and she gave a great talk. She will be an awesome missionary.
Dad went to the early morning stake priesthood training at 7am. And he said that president ferry was asking him questions and it was his first time being there AND we aren't even sustained yet. 😳. He said he learned a lot. I don't know. I'm pretty nervous about the whole thing.
So it's Monday morning and grandmas sister Joann isn't doing well so grandma is heading to see her. I didn't want her to go by herself so I'm going too. And Lily.
And it's cold again. We about froze to death at Carson's game on Friday it was raining like it was never going to get another chance and cold 😡.
So. How was your week?  Were you able to baptize Isabel and Marvin? Are you getting transferred?  I know you'll miss the people there but it will probably be nice for a change too.
I've been reading in helaman and it is amazing the things that Samuel prophesied that are so similar to things happening today. They say history repeats itself and it really seems to.
Anyway. Hopefully you write when I still have cell service. We are just passing malad summit so about 3 hours and we'll be in Montana. With spotty at best service.
Hopefully you got your packages. If you got both of them the one is for your birthday.
I talked to Steph yesterday and her mom is having hip surgery next Monday and asked if dad would give her a blessing on Sunday before she has the surgery.  It's pretty cool that you have set an example for the people around you even if they never become members or active they still can see the light that is there and know there is a power there.
Anyway. We love you and know you are working hard doing the things you are supposed to be doing at this time in your life and the lessons you learn will make you a better person, husband and father.
Love
Mom

So this is my last week in Quezalte. I think...? So I had a good week we were working hard but the highlight of my week was that I got to shake hands and look directly into the eyes of Elder Dale G. Renlund. WOW IS HE POWERFUL...  It was crazy. I loved listening to him and learning how I can be a better missionary. But I loved his first message. It was Thanks. On part of the Quorum of the 12 the First Presidency and our Savior Jesus Christ thank you for your service. It was amazing. Also I saw Parker Wallentine!!! Hahah when you have to go to El Salvador to meet someone from Brigham City... Hahah well All I know is that I looked into the eyes of an apostle and he told me nice to meet you. It was awesome... Well that is honestly all I have to say this week. Love you!!!

Mom:  Oh my hell, that suit is awful!!  I can't believe you are wearing it. It definitely is breaking the dress code.

Who is Parker Wallentine?  Someone you went to school with?

Still don't know if you're being transferred yet?

Jackson: Yes I am leaving along with my comp... They are closing our area.... I don't know why....

Mom:  Really?? That's weird since you've had a ton of baptisms. Maybe they don't have enough missionaries to cover it. 

Jackson:  I think it is because President is sending a ton of people home.

Mom:  Just going home or breaking rules going home?

Jackson:  Both.  There is a lot of disobedience in my mission.

Mom:  Really- Mr. red suit 😉
Jackson:  No my red suit is nothing. Mom you think a bad missionary just doesn't work hard. Here is a whole new level of bad missionary.

Mom:  Not good. 😟

Jackson:  Why?

Mom:  Because that's not good. Missionaries should be help up to higher standards. To the rules that hey agreed to uphold before they left. Otherwise what is the point.

Jackson: I know. That's what I think. Why don't they just stay in their house and do what they want. But I don't  care I follow the rules.

Mom:  So what's up?  Are you getting all your goodbyes in today?  You're going to miss all the people there.

Jackson:  Today and tomorrow.  Tell grandma thanks for everything. Oh I got the package with the shoes.

Mom:  Great!  Do you like them?  Carson loves his pair. If you like them and think they'll last I'll send you another pair.

Jackson:  I would like brown shoes. and size 9 1/2...

Mom:  So the shoes we got are way too big??

Jackson:  Just a little. But they work don't worry. I want tight shoes but these are fine. don't worry.

Mom:  Sorry. If they don't work send them home because they fit Carson perfect. Try them out this week and if I can get a pair in brown I'll get them and send them.

Jackson:  Send me a pic before you buy them.

Mom:  They would look exactly like the ones you have. They are supposed to last with all the walking and water. Weather etc. I just don't know if they had brown. Do you like the shandals??  They were total cracking me up. (Shower sandals)

Jackson:  No don't buy those again look for some other ones.  They work and I like them.

Well I love you too Adios!

June 5, 2017

Well, another week down.  It's crazy how fast the week flies by.  Last week wasn't as busy as some, so it was good.  Carson didn't have practice in Logan again, so He and dad hit and threw every day.  They didn't make it to the park to pitch off the mound there but they pulled out the portable one at home.  Monday we went to the Baker's for a Barbeque with Bailey's, Burt's, Robinette's and Dilley's.  The missionaries came too and it was a fun evening.  The kids and the missionaries played a little football, baseball and basketball while the adults visited.  Where it was Pday and Memorial Day the missionaries stayed longer than they normally would have because I'm sure they didn't have any appointments to go to.   

Tuesday started off Weight lifting in the mornings and Carson had speed training with Coach Funk at 6pm on Tues and Thurs.  

Friday Dad, Carson, Chance, and Sean along with Kevin, Jolene, Landen, and Easton went to the Domingo Ayala show.  They said it was super funny.  I got to stay home and mow the lawn  since I gave my ticket to Chance.  I figured the kids would enjoy it much more than I would.  Carson thought it was hilarious.   They got some stuff signed, took pictures with him and got you a shirt.  I'll get it sent off this week.  Hopefully you got your package with the shoes???  

Thurs. there was a meeting for summer baseball and that starts tomorrow.  They will play Tues and Thurs. til July 18th.  Carson will probably miss the tournament if they wait til the next week to have it because he'll be at trek.  But he's pretty excited to play ball with his friends for the rest of the summer.  I was disappointed  that they aren't planning on having any practices, but I guess we'll see how it goes.   

Saturday Carson had games in Bountiful.  He played catch because their catcher was on vacation.  He took a ball to his right thumb and its hurting pretty bad.  It's the same thumb he broke 3 years ago :(.  We took him and got it x-rayed and it's not broken, but bad contusion.  Hopefully he'll suck it up and deal, because he has weightlifting all week and wrestling camp that started this morning that goes all week and Summer ball that started tomorrow- 3 games and Idaho Falls tournament Fri and Saturday.  I think this is going to be the busiest week of the whole summer.  We really don't have anything else planned other that baseball games, our trip to Hawaii, football and Carson has trek the end of July.  I'm sure things will get busier as the summer goes on, but hopefully we'll have a few weekends to go to the cabin and get the boat out.  After this weekend, Saturdays should be free.  I'm kind of excited about that.  Maybe we'll sneak away on Father's day and spend the weekend at the cabin.  (or at least Friday and Saturday and go boating for the day.)  It's Stake conference on Sunday and we should be heading to the cabin after they get done playing ball in Idaho Falls, but Macey's farewell is on Sunday and we don't want to miss it.  So we are planning to do our Home Teaching dinner on Sunday instead.  

I don't know if dad told you or not, but we got a new calling.  NOT GOOD!!!  I got a text last weekend to see if both dad and I could meet with the Bishop but we weren't home, so we met with him yesterday.  Dad had an idea of what the calling was because he is in the meetings where they discuss that kind of stuff.  I didn't, but I was pretty sure it wasn't Relief society, Young Women or Primary, because they just redid all those presidencies.  Dad's not happy because he really liked the ward clerk job.  I don't love the Music job so that's not a big let down, I was just getting to know my primary class though, so that's a little sad- they are a great bunch of kids.  We will still be on the scout committee but that's not a really big commitment.  so have I left you in suspense long enough???  I'm thinking I'll let you try to guess what it is ;)  See if you can- maybe you're way more in tune that I am because I had no clue and it is definitely going to be a stretching and growing process for both of us, because it is waaaaaaay out of my comfort zone.  GUESS??

I'm a little nervous about it, but like Dad and I talked about- We can't expect our kids to sacrifice their time and talents for spreading of the gospel if we aren't willing to do the same thing.  Hopefully we can do a good job.  Have you figured it out yet??

So yeah- I've been on a little bit of an emotional roller coaster trying to let it all sink in- not sure I'm there yet.  And we honestly don't know exactly what we are supposed to do yet.  We won't be sustained for a couple weeks, so I guess we don't have to do anything til then and then we'll have a week to get things together and be gone for 9 days to Hawaii.  I'm sure it will all work out somehow.  

We went on a jeep ride over to Paradise and up to Porcupine dam and then across to Liberty and home through Ogden Canyon yesterday.  It was a nice day- We took the top off the jeep and got some wind and sunshine.  I'm paying for it today with watery eyes and sneezing, but it was an enjoyable relaxing day.  It is incredible how much snow is still in the mountains.  

I think dad said that by mid week the water levels in the Logan and Bear River is supposed to raise 11 ft. or some crazy amount,  so I'm guessing the spring flooding is coming with a vengeance.   

How are things going this week?  Did your baptism happen on Saturday?  Did Isabel and Marvin come to church?  How is Sabrina doing?  It's pretty awesome that Estebana was baptized and she is willing to do whatever is needed.  It's nice to know there are people that are ALL IN.   

We took a birthday cake up to Kyra yesterday and visited with Chad and Latisha and AJ and Alyssa and Kyra for a little bit.  We were kidding around about the fact that if we didn't know that the church was true and know the eternal blessings that will come by living the gospel to the fullest that we would be Catholic or some other religion, because the base of what we believe is the same.  There is just more expected from us to be able to achieve the fullest of blessings.  -- We could go to church on Easter and Christmas and get a huge pay raise ;).  

Have a great week!

Love 

Mom

 This Week was another killer week!! We are putting Quzalte in flames ;) Not really but this week we had another baptism. We found Brother Jose the first day we were together as a companionship. He cant hear or talk very well but is always early to church. Haha he even beats us there. That is crazy right? I have been studying more about the atonement of Christ. Really didn't understand what repentance was when I was at home. But now I really can feel the love of Christ for me and everyone in the world. I love teaching this gospel. I am sorry if I made mistakes or hurt one of you but I am trying to be a better person. I really just am trying to be like Christ. I cant explain how much I love this gospel. I am learning so much. But There is this one investigator that is 20 and she knows so much and already has a testimony that this is the true church. She even reads 25 pages of the Book of Mormon daily. I don't know how she does it. But she even macheted us with the book of Mormon... Wow like I guess we didn't say something exactly right and she drilled us with Alma. Now she is going to be a convert. Tomorrow is super cool because we go get to see an Apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ we still don't know who it is but I am so excited. I love this gospel and I hope you guys do too. Love you!! Have a great week

 Jackson:  What is your new calling?

Mom:  Aren't you going to guess?

Jackson:  I have no clue.

Mom:  Dad is the Ward Mission Leader and I am a ward missionary.  I have no clue what to do.  I mean I can schedule meals and stuff but I'm not good at talking to people about the gospel.  It's kind of intimidating- especially people that you will be in contact with forever :)  But we will do our best.

Jackson:  Mom. Just talk to people invite them to church. If they are passing through trials there is something that the gospel can help them with.

Mom:  I know I'm just a chicken

Jackson:  I was a chicken but now freak when I see a person with an open door I am all over it.

Mom:  That's pretty awesome that Jose got Baptized.  Did Marvin and Isabel come to church so that they can be baptized?  How is Alejandro?  Did you get your shoes?

Jackson:  I haven't gotten anything but yes Isabel and Marvin have a high possibility of being baptized this week. 

Alejandro is good why?

Mom:  Just wondering. You hadn't talked about him in a while. You seriously haven't gotten the package with the shoes?

Jackson:  I think it is in the office but I would rather get it after the change in my new area or in the same one.

Mom:  Ok. At least it's there. What else is going on?

Jackson:  Nothing much just tomorrow we get to see an apostle of the lord :)

Mom:  That's pretty awesome. Are transfers next week?

Jackson: Yep. So I'll just wait.

Mom:  Ok. Hopefully it's there. I'm still kind of worried about the shoes. That someone stole them.

Jackson:  Don't worry. It'll all be okay

Memorial Day- May 29, 2017

Estevana-- (She's the lady with the dog that bit me) 

Holy crap that suit is hideous!!!

Well, last week was kind of a blur.  Carson didn't have practice all week because all the kids on the team were having legion tryouts. So Monday we went to Easton and Lily's pitching machine game. They played against each other. It was pretty entertaining. Then Carson practiced some pitching and hitting for a while out at the Corinne park. Then Tuesday we worked in the yard until dark. Dad got the sprinklers going and Carson and I got the flower bed in the back ready to plant and transplanted about 40 strawberry plants. So we got a lot done. Maybe we'll be home early enough today to get some more done. 😀 Carson is totally against that plan😂.
Wed. Carson had an awards night for having a 4.0 all year and then he and dad went out to the ball field and worked with Kevin and Landen for a while. While they were out here it started to hail and downpour. They came home soaked.
Thursday we went to work came home and cleaned the house and finished up the laundry and went to Spanish fork for the night since Carson had to be at the field at 8 on Friday morning.  He played ok the first game. And better the 2nd game. It's sad that a few of the kids don't really care and it brings the whole team down. He's still had a lot of fun though. After Carson's games we went to Springville and watched Landen's games. He was playing for the Cache Wolverines. They're pretty good. The first game they won by a lot.  Then the 2nd game they lost but I was keeping score and hey wanted to call the game an inning early because the other team was showing they we up by 9 and I showed them up by 8. They were home team so really my score didn't matter. But that was a lot of pressure on the score keeper. I know my score was right. The difference in our books went back to the 1st inning. I can't even explain what the deal was but he was wrong!! It was crazy.
Saturday Carson played at 9 and 11. They played terrible the first game. And then the 2nd game they played well. They ended up losing 5-4. But it was a good game. Carson hit one over the fence and the road-- too bad it went foul. 🙃 then he hit to the fence and the next time he was up straight out to centerfield but they were backed up for it and caught it but he got an RBI.
We went to Landens games after out in Alpine. We missed most of the first one because we stopped and got lunch but the 2nd game was a total blow out. They won 31-1. And it would have been worse if they hadn't started stopping the stealing and and only let them go one base when they hit except when they hit home runs   over the fence which was like 6 or 7. A couple of them grand slams. The fence was pretty short and the one kid I swear was as big as Carson.  We went to chilis after for dinner.
I woke up Sunday morning about 452am with a pounding headache and sick to my stomach. It was awesome. So I stayed in the room while Carson and dad went to breakfast and to the pool without me. They were headed to go on a hike and whatnot but I got ready and made my way out the door about 11. I had a piece of toast and some more medicine and finally felt somewhat human. I even made the hike to buffalo peak, that was pretty much straight up the mountain, without throwing up. Then we went through Provo canyon to park city and had lunch at a little place called Davanza's. It was pretty good and not a chain.  Then we headed to salt lake to the bees game. It was a good game but they ended up losing 7-9.
Today is Memorial Day. We are still down in Orem this morning. I think we're going to go get Carson a tournament shirt and head for home. We are having a safety meeting tomorrow morning at 730 and need to do a few things to make sure we're prepared. It's been a fun weekend but life is calling. School's out but Carson starts back to weightlifting tomorrow and speed training Tuesday  and thurs at 6. And summer ball starts next week too like the 6th I think. We haven't really heard since Carson isn't on the same team as the other kids. We're trying to stay in the loop.
Dads uncle Winston (Paulette's husband) passed away last Tuesday or Wednesday and his funeral next Saturday.  Carson has games so we'll have to split up and least for part of the day.
Anyway- how was your week?  Do they have big holidays that everyone is off work and does fun things or how does it all work?  Just wondering about their culture. Some things seem like here but then not really. I got your birthday package sent off so hopefully you get it by your birthday, but I'm not really hopeful of that. Did you ever get your shoes that I sent?  I'm thinking maybe I should send smaller packages maybe they wouldn't take so long to get there??  But then really it usually is only taking 2 weeks to show delivered but then you don't get them for weeks after. It kind of bugs me but I guess that isn't the mission priority.  Maybe the AP's are jealous so they done bring your stuff to you 😳??
Did your baptisms happen on Saturday?  How about Sabrina?  How's she doing?  Anyone new you're teaching?  How's the companion?  Any cool pday things planned?
Work hard. Listen to the promptings that come- don't talk yourself out of things. 😉
Love you
Mom

1:05pm Jackson:  I'm On.

1:53pm Mom:  Sorry. We got home and I was cleaning the garage and forgot to check my email. What's up today?  Working hard this week?  Lots of walking?

Jackson:  Ya and lots of talking and lots of everything!

Mom;  Btw Carson doesn't know yet but he is coming with us to Hawaii. 😉.  I used my skylines and got all our flights for $33. So that's what we're doing for our 25th Anniversary. I'm pretty excited about it.

Jackson:  That is awesome. Thanks for doing something cool with me ;)

Mom:  Yeah whatever. We did cool stuff last year with both of you.

Jackson:  Not even close ;)

Mom:  Seriously. Yosemite, Redwoods, Giants games, Alcatraz, San Francisco. That's what you wanted to do.

Jackson:  Are you kidding me??? I didn't get the choice of Hawaii ;)

Mom:  True. I didn't think about using sky miles. And I wouldn't have had enough For 4 tickets anyway. Oh well.

Jackson:  Wow that's cool but you know.

Mom:  Ok. You keep thinkin that.

Jackson:  Hahha I'm just kidding. I loved my trip con todo ;)


Mom:  That suit is hideous!  You actually paid good money for the OMH!!!!   Have a great week!!

Love you

Jackson:  Love you mommy :) 

Voice Recording:

Alright this week.  I would say it was another good week.  We had some success.  We also had some struggles, like every week I guess, I don't know.
But let's just start with Tuesday and I'll go through my week.
Start with Tuesday, We visited a girl named Alejandra.  She is 20 years old and WOW!! She is the smartest girl I have ever know in my entire life.  She never loses a second, she is always doing something productive in every second.  Like every second she is doing something productive.    She straight machete's us like when we say something, she drills us with something.  But Tuesday, we visited her and she's like well, your pamphlets- the pages are like folded a little bit, they're a little bit dirty.  I mean- I heard someone that said to a Jehovah's witness that said - they probably picked this out of the street.  We were like O.  Good thing we had some good ones too.  I mean.  But the pamphlets get a little dirty in your backpack and no one complains, but she was the first one who complained.  Then we went and talked to Isabel and Marvin.  They're doing good.  They need to come to church one more time, but they're doing good.  Marvin's struggling, like I don't think he really cares, but he's a 15yr old teenager so- we all know how they are-mmmm.  haha.  We visited Jose, he's - wow- this guy.  He can't really hear and he can't really talk very good, but he is amazing.  We found him our first day together, Elder Perez and I, and it was really cool.  we visited some other people too.  That was Tues.

Wed. we had our district meeting it was really good.  I like our district meetings, they're really good.  And we visited, umm another Jose, but this one is Jose Armondo. He uh, he's alright, he's a little crazy, he was illegal in the states for a while.  It was funny how he told us this story.  Well, yeah, I was in the states and this and that and then they started cracking down on the illegals so I left.  They don't even know that I was there.  Like wow, alright.  He's not bad guy either.  We visited Sabrina a little bit too.  And there's a lady that we visit.  Her name's Elia.  Man her life is tough.  Her daughter like hates her and tries to fight with her and like wants her to die and stuff like that.  She kicked her out of the house, she's done a lot of stuff, but she still pays for her other house, she still gives her food and stuff like that.  but she keeps her kids and all that.  you know it's a bad situation, but we visit her and have a good time with them.   And then.  Yah that was that day and then, Thursday rolled a round.
We've got Thursday and we visited Isabel and Marvin again.  It was a good day I feel like.  I thought it was good.  We visited them and then we went and visited someone who's the mom of a recent convert named Okelley.  His mom is Eveline.  The only problem is she's not married.  ahh.  It's difficult when they're not married, I mean I know she's not keeping the word of wisdom, but that's a lot faster to change than a marriage.  So we visited her for a bit, she's a great gal.  And then We visited a guy named Jorge he's a less active for years, years.  His 2 children are not baptized and one's 18 and the other one's 14 or 15.  We visited with him and talked to him about reading the scriptures and praying every day and they're like alright, alright, we'll do it, we'll do it.
We visited Jose again, the guy who can't hear or talk. And we visited a little girl, but her mom said that she can't be baptized until she's like 18.  or 16 when she knows that she's making her own choice.  so that was a little tough for us.
Fri we had the interview for Isabel and Marvin, but Marvin wasn't there and Isabel passed the interview, but she still needs to come to church one more time.  Then we visited Elia again and we visited some other people, I can't remember who we visited, but we visited a couple more people.
then  Saturday.

Saturday started off with a baptism, it was awesome.  We baptized Hermana Estevana.  She is 74 years old and she cannot see.  Well, she can see a little bit, but really not at all.  Then we started visiting all just about all our investigators and committed them to come to church on Saturday.  It was good.  We visited a lot of people.
Then Sunday we confirmed Estevana.  Jose came too and we did his interview so he's getting baptized this Saturday, but Hermana Isabel and Marvin didn't come to church, so we have to postpone another week til they come to church which is tough but it's alright.  then what else did we do.  We went to Okelley's and we ate a bunch of pupusas.  His mom made them and we also - my comp gave a talk and I wore a red suit to church.  That's right a red suit.  And then we.  We had another lesson with Jorge and his family.  And it was really good and I felt the spirit.  it was really good.  Well, that was our week.  We're just killing it.  We're gonna baptize next week too!  Well, have a great week.


Carson's Letter
Hey bud can you believe it has almost been a year and I get my permit soon and I start high school sports next year. We lost all four of our games for Memorial Day but we still have next week and Idaho falls after that then we have legion I haven't heard much from you lately but Chance said you emailed him back the other week he was excited. We went to a bees game yesterday and they lost 9-7 but it was still a good game. We start lifting tomorrow and I have speed camp and wrestling camp next week all week plus everything else. Mr. Findlay has a job next year at Ridgeline so we are getting a new teacher it sucks. Mom and dad are going to Hawaii on the Fourth of July without me. Today we were invited to two barbecues one at the Baker's and the other at the Adams the Adams are having smoked goose and duck. Guardians of the galaxy 2 came out and me and chance might go see it tomorrow. So how have you been. What have you done in the last few weeks.

PS respond to this to my email ok

Jackson:  Ya sorry man. Whats up? I hope you can drive because you're kinda slow in the brain... Anyways That sucks that Mr. Findlay is leaving but hey take 3 tris of orchestra because you don't want to take a fine arts class later. I promise. Wrestling camp is dope I hope you like it this year. Keep staying tough in baseball. Do as much as you can to get better. Love you

Carson:  Well all of that is true except I am not slow in the brain.  
Carson:  By the way love the suit

Jackson:  I know its dope huh :)

Carson:  Heck yeah man.

May 22, 2017

The week's really go by fast!  I keep telling myself that I will write early or a little every day, but the days go by and here is it Monday again.  I will be honest, this is my least favorite part of missionaries.  (the letter writing)  It's not that I don't want to communicate, just I really don't like trying to think of things to tell you that aren't completely yawn worthy. :)  Our lives are busy, but busy with pretty much the same things every week.  It's almost like the movie 'Ground Hog Day', only every once in a while we stop for a minute and realize that things have actually changed and hopefully we are moving forward and are better people because of the experiences we had, even though going through the motions we didn't notice anything.

Any way- last week was more of the same- Carson didn't have practice Monday- games Tues. the first game they played and won, the 2nd game they started and it was pouring so they only played 2 innings, Practice Wed. and 2 games Thurs.  the first one started at 600 the weather was drizzly the whole time, so everyone was wet and cold- they played really well.  The 2nd game was against the Ridgeline Green team and pretty much they had decided they were done before they started and it wasn't pretty.  They had a few good plays, and some of the kids were all in, but you know the drill-- if they are all there, it doesn't happen.  The kids are good kids, but they just don't have enough confidence in their own abilities.  They are just as good as the other teams, they just lack confidence.  Friday the Cache Valley Wolverines (like the Brigham City Peaches) had a youth baseball camp and asked the teenage kids to help.  He had a lot of fun and then the team had a party over at the Coaches house and Carson spent the night so we didn't have to pick him up late and be back in Logan at 8am.  

Taylor and Kayla got Sealed in the Logan Temple on Saturday morning.  It was a really nice ceremony.  The sealer talked about the people that were there, and not just the ones we could see.  It was pretty amazing to know that Grandpa Layne was there and My Grandparents and Dad's Grandparents.  I know they were all there and they were so happy to see them be sealed together for eternity.  We were all wishing that you could have been there too, but you are where you are supposed to be right now.  Grandma and Grandpa, Jolene and Kevin, Grandma Lou, Kirk, Scott, Peggy and Val, Chad and Latisha, Shand and Chloe, one of his mission companions from Dallas- Cole Barber, Coach Rip, Wes and Carolyn (Taylor's voice teacher), their bishop, Kayla's aunt, her brother Shane and his Wife Danielle were there, it was great too see the support that they had.  They did some pictures (I didn't get any with my after and then we went to Texas roadhouse for lunch after.  

We missed Carson's first game because we were at the temple, but they won, and then his 2nd game was at 5 so we had lunch and then hung out at the ball park and watched some of the younger kids' games while we waited for Carson's next game to start.  He was hanging out with Drew for the day.  They lost their last game 8-9- but they made a comeback from 7-1 and were ahead going into the last 1/2 of the last inning, but the other team was home team and they didn't hold them.  It's all good.  Carson hit a single, double, and got hit by pitch- he threw his bat down and stared down the pitcher on his way to 1st.  It was hilarious ;)  He got a little talking to on first base from the coach, but I think he thought it was pretty funny too.  He got hit square in the back- Thurs, and in the morning game Saturday and then the last game.  I guess he was tired of getting hit.  

Yesterday we had our home teaching dinner.  Everyone came- Burt's, Baker's, Bailey's ,and Greene's.  We invited our new home teachers, Adam Price and Jackson Tuckett also.  The Tuckett's came.  They bought Wayne Johnson's house.  They are really nice- young couple, no kids- he is Carson's Sunday School teacher and Carson really likes him.  It was fun like always and everyone was saying that they missed you.  Brandon will be a senior next year and getting ready to head out on his mission shortly after you come home- his birthday is in July- it's weird to see everyone growing up and moving on to bigger and better things in their lives. 

Austin Bingham will be headed to Mexico, Taylor Baton to the Philippines, Lexie will be married- it's crazy to think about.  

Camille Bailey wrote you a letter and Amber said she was going to asked you if you still remembered Doug.  Amber didn't know if she actually did, but it was pretty funny.  Make sure you take the time to write those kids back. It will mean a lot to them.  

Did you get your package yet??

I didn't get anything sent for your Birthday yet either, but this is the week.  Carson doesn't have practice all week and he's just got awards night at the middle school for 4.0 all year on Wed. hitting with Lisa Thurs. then we head to Spanish Fork for 9am and 1pm games on Fri and I think the same on Sat. and then we're going to the Bees game and what ever for the rest of the weekend and coming home on Monday.  So a pretty lax week for the most part.  If the weather stays like it is today, maybe we can get our yard work done and finish the stairs on the deck?  I can dream.  

How did your week go?  Are all your baptisms still on or was it Saturday that they were supposed to happen?  Hopefully you are working hard and having fun at the same time.  

Love You

Mom

Hey so this week was a blast full of work and not too much play. We worked really hard so we could have 3 baptisms this week but 2 aren't going to happen because they didn't come to church. I am a little sad for that but I guess its alright. I have been doing really good working with my new comp. He and I are always having fun and just killing it. I mean I love working with him. We found someone super cool but we judged her... I mean just about any missionary would. She was taking bible studies so we didn't want to go back.. But we did because we felt like we should. She told us she was waiting for us and feels like it is true because she read and prayed. But she studied the pamphlet we gave her. I am so glad we went back. Well that is what happened this week. Have a great week love you!!!

Jackson:  Hey I'm writing the letter... The computer deleted my photos i took today...

Mom:  Well that sucks. What have you been up to today?  Anything fun?

Jackson:  We went to the waterfalls.... I was super excited to send the fotos but the freaking computer deleted them..

Mom:  So what do you mean you judged her??

Jackson:  We said oh she won't progress

Mom:  Yeah- I guess you never know who is sincerely looking for answers to life's questions and who thinks they already know all the answers.  

I read an article recently that has been posted several times around about the "Revolution to come in Mormonism"  (I don't know if that's the title, but something like that.)  - what I got out of it that Mormons are all super judgmental and not Christlike in the way they treat people and basically think we're better than everyone else that isn't or even sometimes is Mormon.  

I am not discounting the theory that people in general are judgmental, because we all are- but it really bugs me that there is so much "Mormon bashing" going on in the comments of this article about how bad Mormons are and that we judge everyone that is different than us.  Again- people do judge for whatever reasons, but don't single out a certain religion and make us out to be the only religion that has ever judged someone.  It gets me pretty fired up.  I will admit, I've probably judged my fair share in my life, but I'd like to think as I've gotten older that I'm a little more kind and understanding of people and their situations, or at least that I keep my thoughts to myself.

Jackson:  Hahah you have no idea. The people will listen to any religion besides the JWs and us

Mom:  It's crazy the things people say.  The sad thing is, it's usually someone that used to be LDS that is saying  how bad the members are.  I will agree that we probably don't have the same issues as some wards in different areas, but I have heard people that have been in our ward say that we are clicky because so many of us have been in the ward since in was established in 1987 and knew each other since before then.  

Jackson:  Who cares. My new motto besides cut grass and catch bass is no me importa no voy a perder nada

Mom:  I don't know what that means.

Jackson:  I don't care I'm not gonna lose anything

Mom:  so who didn't get baptized or isn't getting baptized yet.

Jackson:  Isabel and Marvin they didn't come to church but they are coming this week so next week

Mom:  Well- that's good.  Sounds like things are going good!  Did you get your package yet?

Jackson:  Nope I'm gonna ask today. I'll get my suit Friday so I'll wear it Sunday and send pictures I love you mommy but gotta go :) Have a great week

Mom:  Love you too!

Voice Recording:
Well, This week was really good, we were working really hard.  We've been getting a lot of people with baptismal dates that are actually progressing.  That's really good.  Two of our investigators didn't come to church so their baptismal date fell through, but we just pushed it back for one more week.   They're just gonna go to church so we're not too worried.   It's because the one kid was sick so he couldn't go.  We were sad but-  We have a baptism that's going to be happening this Saturday.  Her name is Estevana, she can't see like about anything, but she is like Wow, She is AWESOME!  I mean she can't see but she can - I don't even know- She just goes to church.  She's just hey drop me off at the church, she doesn't have an excuse, she just goes.  I love it because she really just does what she's asked.  It's awesome.

Then we had some- it was hard this week, we'll be honest.  There was a lot of stuff that wasn't going our way, but now we're happy because it's going our way.  We've got the baptism planned, we've got the talks given out.  All we have to do is Friday go fill the baptismal font up and Saturday baptize her and then Sunday confirm her.  I mean-- It's awesome.
Another guy who is our investigator, he's like- they asked him, so when are you going to be baptized and he's all next week.  And we're like woah- you've got to come to church one more time before and he's like alright, ok.  So that's really cool.  
But, I would have to say that this week was a success.  Even though it was tough.  I learned a lot of things this week that were really important to me.  We cleaned the house and we also cleaned the outside of the house.   Because, man it looked like we were living in the abandoned house, but now it looks good.  
Well, that's all I've got to say.  Have a great time!

May 15, 2017 Happy Mother's Day!

Well,  It was great to be able to talk to you yesterday.  You look like you are loving the mission.  There will always be things that happen that aren't great, but your attitude will make the difference.  

I'm glad that you like your new companion.  That is definitely helpful to a successful experience, but you can learn a lot of things about yourself if you don't necessarily fit with a companion as well.

It was a bummer that Macey didn't make it in time, but it's all good.  Landen and Easton we glad to be there are talk to you for a minute.  They stayed and played games with Taylor and Kayla and then ball in the yard with Carson for hours after we finished talking to you.  

Dad and I stayed at Grandma's for a little while and watched Last Man Standing.  That show is hilarious.  We went home around 7 and dad got some meat ready to smoke for Gary.  He is doing that today.  I guess the guy that was supposed to take care of all the food for some Search and Rescue training weekend backed out at the last minute and they are scrambling to get everything put together.  

So Carson and Kourtney sang in Sacrament meeting yesterday and I missed it because I was SOOO sick yesterday morning.  I still don't feel great, but it will pass eventually I guess.  Sometimes being a girl really SUCKS!!  

Anyway-- He recorded it for me.  They sounded pretty good.  If the file will send, I will send it to you.  

Last week was busy as usual, but seriously, not even close to as busy as we were when all 3 of you were at home.  I swear I get less done though.  The house does seem to be quite a bit cleaner for the most part though.  Definitely easier to keep up with, even though Carson is messier than you were and that's saying a lot because you were a complete slob.  Taylor too.  It makes me crazy!!

Carson didn't have practice Monday, but had football camp after school all week til 5:15.  Tues. He went to football and we picked him up from there and went straight to his game in Providence he was so wiped out by the end of the game.  Wed. he had practice and missed the Young Men's service Project.  Thurs.  He didn't go to Football because it was the scrimmage and it started at 5 and he had to be in Providence at 6 for his baseball game. We also had tickets for the Bees game in the booth that night.  So I took Carson to his game and Dad went to the Bees game with Gary and Kelsey and the Noordas.  He said it was a great game and the weather was good.  

Friday I picked Carson up from Football about 5 and we didn't do ANYTHING!!  It was nice. I didn't even feel guilty.  The wind was blowing super hard so I didn't want to plant my plants because I figured they would all be broken off before morning.  The power went out around 10, so we just went to bed.  Which wasn't a bad idea since we had to leave at 8 for Saturday games.  

Carson had the 10 and 6 game, so it made for a long day.  We got done with the first game around noon and got Carson some lunch and then took him and Drew up to Jaxon's house to hangout for the day.  Then Dad and I went to lunch.  We tried out the HuHot.  It wasn't too bad.  Then we went to Shopko and got Carson a long sleeve dri-fit shirt and a sweatshirt since he didn't listen to me when I said it was going to be cold and didn't bring anything warm.  Then we went to Sam's for a bit and went back to the park and visited with Kim and Brian and Sue and Mike and watched the Bee's play for a bit.  Then we went and picked Carson and Drew up so they could get warmed up for their game.  

They won their games on Thurs and Sat. They played pretty good. They are all definitely getting better.  I just wish there was a way to make them have confidence in themselves, because that's what they're missing.  They aren't superstars but they are good they just can't see that.  It's amazing how life can knock you down and a lot of people can't come back from it.  

Anyway-- What is going on for this week for you?  Are you doing anything fun for Pday today? 

Good plans for this week?  I forgot to ask what you wanted for your Birthday-- I want to send it this week since it seems like the packages are taking forever to get to you.  

Did you get your one with the shoes yet?

Have a good week.  Keep working hard.

Love you

Mom

This week I talked to the fam!!! It was great. I don't have very much to say but this week was a week full of hard work and it definitely paid off. We contacted 101 people. Which is share a principle of the gospel and try and get in the house. We then had 33 new investigators. We don't mess around. We get into the houses where there are men ;) but this week has been awesome with my comp. We are learning a ton. Especially from president. He taught me in my interview that when I ask something in my pray I'll get it. Because I was wondering how to have more investigators. I've been asking for people to teach. And I have been getting people to teach. So I need to ask for people who are ready to be baptized. I was really stunned. Something so simple that I teach everyday I wasn't doing. But My president is the best in the world so I can always count on him to help me see the way that I'm struggling. I also am just in love with the mission. Maybe not the heat... It is like 98 everyday and We just want it to rain. In this week we are going to work hard to set baptismal dates with everyone of the 33 that we found. We know that it wont happen but we will get as many as possible. Well that would be my crazy week!!! I hope you have a great one!!! Love you :)

Mom:

I see that you're on but my email isn't working for some reason and won't download the message right now.  How's your day going?

Jackson:  It is good. I mean we have done anything because our district leader doesn't ever want to do anything with us...

Mom:  Why do you need the district leader to do stuff?

Jackson:  We don't but he says we are going to do something then tells us oh no they didn't say anything so do what you want and half our P-Day is gone and we still have to buy and eat a few things.

Mom:   I see how it is. You talked to me yesterday so today you can write to al your friends😕

Jackson:  I'm writing to you? Only dad and you are writing me...?

Mom:  Still need to know what you want me to send for your birthday.

Jackson:  Ties. That are cool... And maybe some beef jerky. Teriyaki but candy and what you guys think I feel like I don't need anything. But send me mountain dew... at least one bottle...

Mom:  You said you aren't supposed to drink it. You are already going to push the red suit thing. Are you sure??  Are your suits going to be done before the next transfer day?

Jackson:  Yes and I asked President he said if we get packages yes

Mom:  Ok. Did you get the package with the shoes?

Jackson:  No, but I'll ask today.

Mom:  I just tracked the package and it says it was delivered Fri. 5/12 at 329pm.

Jackson:  I'll ask then.

Mom:  It is still ticking me off that it went from San Salvador to San Jose Costa Rica-- that took 4 extra days.  :(  I guess at least it came back.  Hopefully with everything still in it.    What kind of Candy are you thinking?  I know it's all good, but What are you really missing?

Jackson:  I don't know. But just think.. Just send mountain dew one for me and my comp.

Mom:  Just think!  Really--- that's what you're giving me??  ok- You get what you get then!

Did you get Oreos and stuff in the last package?  You never tell me if you get them or if you like anything that I send.  

Jackson:  I love everything that I get. I don't know what I need

Mom:  I'm guessing you are almost out of time.  Work hard, Love you!!  So glad we got to see you yesterday!  Just think, almost 1/2 way done, so make sure you are working hard on your mission goals now.

Love

Mom

Jackson:  You know it I love you mommy!!!! I'll have Alejandro send a message to you when I get my package. But write him in Spanish please.. He doesn't understand English. Love you mom!!

Mom:  I figure he can use google translate :)

Jackson:  No you can.

Mom:  Wow!

May 8, 2017

Jackson: Hey why didn't you write me?

Mom: Carson had my phone all day yesterday and I was asleep when they got home from Jolene's. AND you're are writing super early!!  I was just finishing up getting drivers dispatched and was going to write you.

Nothing really happening last week anyway.    Carson had practice on Monday and I stayed home and weeded.  Tues he had a double header 645 and 830.  We got home at 11.  Long day-- and Super early morning.  I took Carson to School so he could sleep a little longer since it was late start. Practice Wed and no games Thurs. Fri he went to Keys to Keys with the Bishop instead of playing in the rescheduled Bear River Tournament-- they had  13 kids to play so he made the choice.  It kind of sucked because they won the tournament and he was bummed he wasn't there, but he said he was where he was supposed to be.  It's hard to make choices between good things sometimes.  

Dad and I went in to town to walk at the park after work on Fri and ended up at the High School Baseball game.  The varsity had just lost to Woods Cross in a tie breaker for the region title and the JV was getting schooled as well.  We visited with a few people and watched the rest of the game.  Kind of pathetic right?!  I guess we aren't going to be very good empty nesters  :(.

Anyway- how was your week??  And what are the details for mother's day calling?

Carson played really well on Saturday.  They won their first game and got killed the 2nd game- Carson caught the last LONG inning.  Dad said he did great.  I left after the first game to go to the temple with Taylor Baton while she took out her endowments in Logan.  I still can't hardly believe she is going to the Philippines.  I think she leaves like August 4th.  And Lexie is getting Married that week as well.  It's crazy!!!

Jackson:  Wow that is crazy

We are going to call on Monday for 45 minutes. So what time do you want me to call?

Mom:  Well that kind of sucks- Carson will be at school and Taylor and Kayla will be at work.   I guess if you call in the morning Carson can miss some school.  :(

Why are you calling on Monday??  The whole mission or just you?

Jackson:  I meant Sunday.... SORRY...

Mom:  I was getting a little bit fired up!!  Okay-- well later in the afternoon would be good because Scott is ordaining Harrison a deacon in Roy at 11 on Sunday so if we left right after that it would be like 1 before we got home-- So I would say anytime after 1, but dad hasn't found out for sure if that is their church time or if it's after church or at the start of Priesthood meeting.  So who knows for sure.

What else exciting did you do last week?  New companion??

Jackson:  I'll call at 3 or later how about that?

Mom:  That should work perfect.  I'm guessing it will be like it was at Christmas so you'll just be waiting for a turn right??

Jackson:  Ya pretty much. But how have you been?

Mom:   I'm good.  Just staying busy or trying to not be busy, I'm not sure.  I don't really feel like doing anything most days, but there is always a ton of stuff to do.  I've been getting up earlier and trying to get a few things done in the mornings, but I think the only extra thing I'm getting done is taking Carson to school.  I swear he's growing again, because he's always wanting to sleep.  (I kind of am like that too! But not growing taller :( )   He's got Freshman Football camp this week along with baseball games and practice and I guess they moved the scrimmage to Thurs instead of Fri so he can't go to it because he has a baseball game at 5pm.  Oh well. He was kind of bummed, but he has to miss his games next Tues because he has his orchestra concert.  

Jackson:  Oh... Dumb Orchestra... Hahah no when I get back I'm going to play my violin con todo

Mom:  That's not a bad idea!!  He doesn't play too bad. But it's just like you were. He never wants to practice. 

Jackson:  I didn't either... THat's the bad thing huh

Mom:  You're probably almost out of time, but we'll talk to you next week!!  Love you, work hard and stay happy.  Listen to the promptings you received and you will be blessed.

Jackson:  Wow... I have a half an hour...  

Mom:  Oh. Ok. You've been on for 45 minutes so I figured you were done for the day. I guess how much time you have is determined by how anal your companion is about stuff 😂

Jackson:  No it always is the same. Just we have interviews so we don't have to write president

Mom:  So is your companion the district leader again??

Jackson:  Nope.  Ex-ZL in a different area gracias a Dios

Mom:  So tell me about your new contacts or the person you think might get baptized this week or how Sabrina is doing since her surgery?  So is he a good companion so far?  It sounds like you are working hard with him so that's good.

 Jackson:  Still in the bed. And she is a girl that is 12 years old. She is the neighbor of a member and the member is like the mom of her because her mom is trash... and the contacts are really good one asked for a BOM right from the get go. He is a great comp it is awesome

Mom:  Well- I just check the tracking on your package and you may never get it which really sucks bad because that was the most expensive package I've sent to you.  I'm just sick.  

It showed it was in San Salvador on Fri May 5 and went to San Jose Costa Rica.  I guess it's still tracking so it's not lost yet but hopefully you get it-- It's worth about $300 with the shoes and everything that's in there.  

Jackson:  Wow.. are you kidding me

Mom:  Nope.  I sent it just like all the rest and it's not like the address wasn't big enough on it.  I printed it off the computer so there wasn't any questions on handwriting too.  

So this week was changes. We said goodbye to some investigators and members. But not too many because he didn't have much time here. Then I got my 3rd Elder Perez. Hahaha from Guatemala as well. Then This week we have been working hard. I gave more lessons this week than I have in my whole mission. I am excited to work with him because he has a little more than a year and we just work hard and go with the flow it really is fun and great. I am tired at the end of every day because we work so hard. It has been a blessing to see these people that we visit change. I am excited because we might be having a baptism this week but we aren't too sure. We will try our best and if it happens I'll be so happy. Well I love you guys have a great week!!!!

Voice Recording:  Alright, so.. . this week was pretty chill.  we had changes.  I stayed in my area, so at the end of this change I will have 6 1/2 months in Quetzaltepeque.  

so Monday and Tuesday we were just saying goodbye really.  Oh, well he's leaving. Oh,  ok, yeah. and then Wednesday came and we had changes and I got my new companion.  My 3rd Elder Perez.  It's super funny.  He doesn't like me.  (Pause)  He always looks at me and says bad words in Spanish.  No, no, not really.  It's really good.  It was really funny that he was already companions with Elder Jiron before he was my companion.  

So this week we found some new people, they're really good.  Sabrina's still in the bed, but she's doing a lot better.  Isabel and Marvin didn't go to church and we were sad, but she said she wants to be baptized and everything so she just has to go one more time.    Estevana and Orales, they went (struggles with the English word)  to church and Orales wants to be baptized, but she's not sure, so we're going to have her pray.  Estevana is going to have surgery on her eyes.  Ooo :(  We'll see how that goes.  

We've been working really hard, especially with Elder Perez.  Hasn't been really anything really cool that happened or anything like that it's just been normal.  Just working hard.  

I don't know, I really don't have much to say.  That was my week really, so, Love you guys, have a good week.

May 1, 2017

Making Flower Ties

Did you get your package?-- I have your next one ready to send-- I'm thinking I need to get your Birthday Package sent in the next week or you might not get it til Christmas!  Let me know what you would like for your birthday so I can get that done.

The weeks fly by, but the time still seems to be dragging on.  I'm excited to talk to you in a couple weeks.

We talked to Macey's dad at the political meeting on Fri.  He said you sent her a backpack and letters and pictures.  It came the day before her birthday and they were taking it to her in Provo on her Birthday.  She was pretty excited.  She went through the temple last week too.   She'll be gone pretty soon.  

This last week was pretty dismal.  It was rainy and cold.  Carson practiced in the cages in Logan on Monday, but that was it.  The rest of the weeks' games and practice were canceled.  They did get to play on Saturday in Brigham, which was good because all games in Providence were canceled still because the fields were too wet.   Landen's games were canceled 2 weeks in a row because of too wet fields.  Gotta Love Spring baseball in Utah!!  They won both games on Saturday- the first one went to extra innings - tie breaker rules ended 10-9, the 2nd game was against the Bee's-- Carson had a couple of crucial errors in the game- I think partly because he was nervous, but he had a couple great hits, they were ahead 7-2 and the Bees tied it up.  We were home team and they walked the first 2 batters and the 3rd kid hit the ball straight down the 1st base line and got out, but they didn't throw the ball home and we scored the winning run.  The boys were pretty excited.  (I think your dad was more excited that they were, just because some of the boys have been pretty rude to Carson- he says he doesn't care, but I know it bugs him some.)  

We had the team come over for dinner after the games (about 8pm).  It was fun to get to know the new team and the boys really all get along well and have made Carson a part of their group. It all just reaffirmed that we made the right decision for Carson.  He is much happier and has had the opportunity to make new friends and see different coaching styles and learn a lot of good things as well as continue to love the game of Baseball. 

Carson got called as the new Teacher's quorum president and got set apart on Sunday.  He's pretty excited about it.  He loves all his leaders and has learned a lot from them in the last 8 or 9 months.  Bro. Mortensen, Brian Baker, and Brian Hardy are pretty awesome and they really have a lot of knowledge to share with the boys.  He has really enjoyed working on the go Kart and helping with that- he especially likes the welding parts.  

He has to make a choice on Friday this week on whether he is going to play in the makeup games for the BR tournament that was the 1st of April and they only played 1 games or go to Keys to Keys.  They had the mixed team go to the Tournament and had 13 boys so I think he's going to do the Keys to Keys, but he's torn.  I asked him what he wanted to do, and he said you know you can never play enough baseball games. :)  And then he said if they have extra kids, he would go to Keys to Keys.  Hard decisions for a 14 year old.  

We had our Home Teaching dinner yesterday and everyone was able to come.  It was great.  I always enjoy having them over, it makes the month!  They all got a good laugh out of you wanting to talk to your friends and not to your Mom on Mother's day.  I didn't really think it was that funny.   

We had a new driver start today, so hopefully he will work out and another over the road one and a local one that is supposed to start in a couple weeks.  Just need 2 more :)  It's sad that people don't want to work when really there are good jobs available in pretty much any field.  

So how was your week?  Anything new and exciting?  Any fun pday activities?  Are you being transferred or getting a new companion?  How are your new converts doing?  Are they staying active and making friends in the ward?  Do they do a good job of fellow-shipping?  

Have a great Week!

Love you

Mom

So this week we had some good times and some success. We had one family come to church this week and they really liked it. But it is going to be hard because one of them is going to have surgery on the 9th. Hna. Isabel and Marvin didn't come to church and I was pretty sad... She is on track for baptism and that would be super awesome if I was here for that but we still don't know about the changes. So we'll have to see! But it is super weird she is going to have some surgery because her skin bleeds or something. I am not sure but it is going to be the 9th as well!!! Then something bad happened... Sabrina had surgery... I don't know what is going on here.... But she is in the bed and is really not all that great... But we've had some great lessons with her about the atonement of Christ. During this time I've been studying more about the atonement of Christ and it really helps you become closer to him. Also haha there was a drunk guy that fell and we helped him up and were walking him to his house and he was telling us that he loved the bible and all that jazz, so I took mine out and ripped on him for drinking and he was like... I don't really like that scripture... haha so that was super funny. Well that was my crazy week!!! Oh last P-Day we made flower ties. Ya made them. 

Mom:  did you get your package yet?

Jackson:  Yes today

Mom:  Wow-- I sent it on March 30th.  For sure let me know what you would like for your birthday by next week so I can get it sent.  I still need to get pens and you said somebody wanted something but I can't remember what it was-- If you can't remember either I guess I can go back through your letters and figure it out.    

I sent another package today-- It has pants and a couple more shirts and a couple pairs of shoes and some treats.  

Was everything still in your package??  I'm kind of worried about the package I just sent today with the shoes :(

Jackson:  Don't worry about it. It'll get here. Don't fret :)

Mom:  So what did you get in the package today since it sat in the San Salvador post office from April 11 to April 21??

Jackson:  Candy, shirts and the temple.

Mom:  Oh yeah-- I'm feeling a little jipped.  You keep sending packages and letters to your friends and we get zip.  What's up with that? ;)

Jackson:  Oh my only one I sent to Macey for her birthday.... Sorry.. I'll write more letters...

Mom:  It's all good.  She was pretty excited about it.  

So how's everything else going??  Transfers?

Jackson:  We don't know the changes yet......... I'm so mad!!!!!!!!!!!!

Mom:  I don't know if you are out of time or not, but Keep your chin up-- think about all the things you want to talk about on Mother's Day, work hard, listen to the spirit and act on the promptings you are given.  Remember we love you and pray for you always.  Love you Bud!    

Have a great week-- have Alejandro facebook message me if you are moving somewhere new.

Love 

Mom

Jackson:  Gotcha :) Love you mom 

I am staying here but I am gonna get a new comp

Mom:  that's great!  I'm sure you're happy about that.

Jackson:  A little sad

Mom:  How come?  I thought you liked the people there and you just wanted a new companion?

Jackson:  Ya it;s true hey gotta go love you :)

Voice Recording: Well, the last week of the change went past.  We had some fun in this change I guess.  HaHa-- no, no, we had some good times.  We had some fun times, we had some bad times.
So this week, we had some ups and downs really.  This week we got to visit a few people.  And it was alright.   We had interchanges 2 times this week.   The first time was with the Zone leaders.  Wow, I feel like they don't do anything in their area, because when I'm with them, we don't teach anyone I feel like.  But Hey, it's whatever, they're zone leaders and they do whatever they want right?!  But who cares.  The 2nd time I was with Elder S??  and we had some fun really, we worked hard, got some new people, got some lessons in.  It was fun.  It was a fun day. Then the bad news started.  We went to find Sabrina Thursday night, So we went to go teach her, We talked to her the days before, you know hey what's up, are you reading, okay, have a good day.    So Thursday rolls around and we waited a little bit later, so everyone was there, like Alex, her mom, her sister, everybody, you know.  And we got there and we're like hey Alex, what's up, how are you?  Hrma Gloria, How are you?  And she was , oh, I'm alright,  Alright, cool.  And we're like,  Hey is Sabrina here?  and She got all teary eyed.  And said no, she isn't coming back today.  And the 3 of us, Alejandro, my comp and me, thought, man, she left.  She went looking for the boyfriend in the states again.  We all thought it.  We're like oh crap.  We thought she just packed up and went away.
So in the lesson, we were going to tell her that everything's going to be ok and we shared about Captain Moroni with the boys with Alex and Elmer and how they can be strong men.  And after we shared D&C 121 peace unto your soul.  And then Alejandro was like, we don't know what happened, we don't know if Sabrina left.  Or if she left and you guys fought or something like that?   And then the Mom's like no, no, no.   She didn't fight or anything, she's having surgery.  and we're like oh no!  I guess she had like a urinary infection or something like that that she had to have surgery on.   And wow!  We gave her a blessing and everything- the mom-  It was really cool.  Then Saturday we showed up and she was in a portable bed type of thing.  A Latin one because like it's not that nice, but it works.  She's hurting pretty bad.  But it will all be ok.
Also, Hrma Isabell, she's a really good investigator, She called us to come visit her and everything.  And she's drinking coffee- OH MY GOSH, I HATE COFFEE!!!-- I hate it!
the Mom of Jefferson, she's a member, she bought my comp a cake for his birthday and this and that.  Wow, she's snaking on my comp.  It's ridiculous.  She's crazy, she's, like 40 something years old.  She's snaking my comp because he wears clothes of old men.  We say ropa de mitro.  Everybody laughs because it's hilarious.
We still don't know if we are having changes or not.  It's Sunday night, but we still don't know about the changes.  I think I'm leaving, but who knows because yeah who knows.  I'm going to get my last shot this week.  I'm really happy for that.  SO we'll see how it goes.  And I'm sure I'll let you know before I write.  See ya!  Love Ya!