Hey mom I'm online right now.
Here's those recipes from sister Fomby
Monkey Bread
1 pkg frozen rolls (1lb 9oz)
1 pkg butterscotch pudding (not instant)
1/2 c brown sugar
1/2 stick soften butter
1 tsp vanilla
1 tsp cinnamon
-mix pudding, sugar, butter, vanilla, and cinnamon
-Grease bunt pan. Put rolls in, sprinkle mixture over top. Put in cold oven the night before and let rise over night.
Bake 325 for 30 mins.
This should be the new Adams family Christmas Tradition.
Yam Souffle'
3 C mashe yams (I would say do a lot more than this)
2 eggs beaten
1/2 t salt
1 c white sugar
1 t vanilla
1/2 c milk
1/3 c butter, melted
Topping
1 c brown sugar
1/3 c flour
1 c chopped pecans
1 c coconut
1/3 c butter melted
1-Combine potatoes, egg, salt, sugar, vanilla, milk, and butter. Blend until smooth. Pour in 9x13
2-Mix topping sprinkle mix over potatoes
375 for 25 mins.
I would say that you are going to have to experiment with the size of pan that you use to fit more of the yams. It deffinately needs more yams.
Good to hear, I would keep everything else the same though, sugar milk etc. because hers were really sweet, I don't think they need to be that sweet.
She's a cool lady, she's from texas or tennessee or something, because she has this texan or Nashville accent.
What do you mean that you didn't get my Christmas cards. I sent them in the package with the presents. There's three pictures of me on it, I made them at wal-mart. The slippers sound interesting, and this knitting group. So do they film you ladies and put it on the evening pbs special!!! ha ha ha. Anyway, what part of my Christmas that you sent me was part of my birthday that you said that you forgot. Just curious.
Well, Elder Bryner ended up getting sick Christmas Eve, and was throwing up all night, but we ended up helping Barbara move most of the day. Elder Bryner had to sit down and rest a lot. Bro. Fomby and I had given him a blessing Christmas morning, and it seemed to me that I just had added strength to be able to continue on. We went to the Fomby's in the morning for breakfast, and I ended up working on a puzzle with Brother and sister Fomby after breakfast while Elder Bryner was on the phone with his family. For Christmas I also bought him some Egg nog and Ranch flavored pringles. (He loves ranch and Egg nog). It was simple but I think that it touched him. So we did presents in the morning before breakfast. My companion made a mess, he got so much stuff. I took pictures of this tornado. Our study room was trashed. After breakfast my companion called half of his family, then we did moving until 4. We had dinner at the Robertson's where I then called home. That was pretty much our night. My companion was sick the whole day, didn't feel too good, but he was finally able to eat something at dinner.
We have been doing a lot of service for a lady, Barbara (Who we helped on Christmas and the Thursday before) that we met business contacting. We've been helping them to move. On Sunday we even got the Robertson family involved. She has been ever so thankful for our help. We found out that she has met with missionaries before, and in the midst of all of this moving she has come across her copy of the Book of Mormon. When this all settles down she wants to take us out to dinner and discuss things and ask us questions that she has. She is getting a divorce after 20 years. She has a son who is a junior and a 21 year old daughter who has a 3yr old son that still live with her. Sister Fomby made her brownies and cookies and a pumpkin pie, which we took over to her at different times. She was so thankful, since they spent Thanksgiving at McDonald's, and moved on Christmas. They haven't had much of the holidays. They have a nice house though. Anyway the Fomby's invited us over to their house for New Year's Eve. They want to play board games, which I'm finding out if we can from President. We then invited Barbara and her son and the 3yr old to come over with us. We'll be able to stay longer and fellowship with them, it will be good for them to meet the Fomby's also. The daughter has to work though. We'll see if these plans for the New Year's eve plan out.
It was good to talk you all on Christmas, but I didn't get to hear Spencer play a song for me on the guitar. I missed that. Oh well, too late now. Anyway I love you all so much.
Love Elder Adams.
I can't believe that it's 2010, who would have saw this coming!!!!
Tell him he's going to get arrested and stop his heart if he drinks those energy drinks and then runs through the cold without anything on. That sounds like a recipe for disaster on New year's Eve. Sometimes I worry about that kid.
I never heard what you and dad got for Christmas, or what you guys did on Christmas Eve and Christmas day. What are your plans for New Years Day.
This is the slide show that they showed us at Zone conference on the 18th. President Doll put it together. If it doesn't work I have a dvd of it that sister doll gave us all for Christmas.
Elders and Sisters:
In case you want to share with your family, below are the links for the slideshow and the two JibJab segments. Copy and paste the links (no web surfing) into your e-mail to family.
http://vimeo.com/8141686
http://sendables.jibjab.com/view/5qZXLuX7QQgLDgTz
http://sendables.jibjab.com/view/Gff54vD5nsPSxgk9
....................................
President Sherman L. Doll
Illinois Chicago North Mission
sdoll@ldschurch.org
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Sunday, December 27, 2009
December 23, 2009
Hey mom I'm online. I gave the 600 check to Bro. Fomby on monday and he put it in his account he said that the 600 had been taken out of his account so I take that to mean that you have put the check into my account. Also I've been unable to sell my backpack to any missionaries so I'm having the first counselor of the branch put it on Ebay. He put it online yesterday. I took pictures of it and everything for him. I told him to post it for 2 weeks and to start the bidding at I think 10. We'll see what happens. As far as a time to call We are probably going to a members for breakfast then we have to help a lady move at 12, then we have our dinner at 4, so maybe before 4 or maybe after our dinner I don't know.
Yeah I hope it doesn't sell for that much either, but do I have any other choice, but to be stuck with it.
Yeah I don't know when I'm calling, it's all a jumble. I'm not too worried about it though.
Well Bro. Challis has probably already put it online. I gave him the pics yesterday. Plus that would mean I'd have to ship it home or pack it around with me, and try to find space to bring it home. We just hope for the best.
I'll be calling on Christmas Day. And we will probably be calling from a members home. They said that it doesn't cost them. Not for sure on the time though. Who knows I could end up calling from the cell phone, but then I'd have to do it before 7am or after 7pm.
Deffinately!! I thought about getting Zach something but I didn't know what and I didn't want it to go to waste if he wasn't writing me back. I still haven't got a letter back from him.
I'm just checking these emails from you and responding, I've already written pres. Today we are going bowling as a district then probably out to dinner, and then we are going caroling and trying to give out joy to the world dvds and then share a spiritual message. It's a great finding idea that we are going to try. We are all meeting in Dekalb. Just keep writing back I'm waiting for your emails to come through.
It's incredible to think about. 2 years ago today I received my patriarchal blessing. I read through it this morning. I plan to read through it tonight again. It's hard to believe it's been two years since then. Tell the Thomas' thank you so much, that I owe a great debt of gratitude to them for their sacrifice, so that I can continue to serve out here. The ward is so supportive. I love you too mom.
My companion is officially ridiculous with Christmas. He has received so many packages and cards. Two full size moving boxes came for him yesterday, another smaller one a day or so ago, and the table that our tree is on has a bunch of holiday cards on it. The whole table is packed with his stuff under the tree. There isn't even any room for my Christmas to sit under the tree. His stuff is even stacked, it almost covers the tree. He's also opened some of his stuff. We all got a plastic bag at zone conference, and I didn't open mine, but he opened his. We also got a holiday pillow case. I have mine on my pillow from last year. Anyway, he's gone crazy with Christmas or at least his family has, and he hasn't even got the things from his girlfriend. He spent a lot of money on gifts, well over three hundred.
I remember a lot of things. That was the same day that I finished reading the Book of Mormon for the first time, and I wrote my testimony in the cover of my copy of the Book of Mormon. It's a significant day for me. I finished reading the Book of Mormon just a little before we went over to brother Stones house for the blessing.
I remember I finished reading it upstairs in your room and that's where I wrote in the front cover of the Book of Mormon.
Tell michelle thanks for the card. Those kids have grown up, that's incredible!!! I hope that you got my Christmas cards that I sent, make sure to send one to the bullocks one for you and then you can give the others to whom ever you like. Or go to a photo place and scan it to make some more if you like.
I read of your concern mom. I had interviews with president yesterday. He won't let me extend my mission. The other thing that he is asking that is hard, is he doesn't want me to wake up early and exercise anymore. He doesn't want me to worry about time spent at members and different things like that. He basically doesn't want me to stress, I have to drop the typical missionary hat. He said that he talked to you about my papers and if I had ever had anorexia, and that my papers said no. So I know that you have been talking to my mission president mom. This is a really frustrating thing my pres trying to control me when my comp doesn't follow other rules and I'm supposed to stop doing something that I've done my whole mission. I don't think I can do it. Yesterday was frustrating interview with president. Obedience has been a thing I've preached before but I'm having a hard time with this one. There's a lot of frustration right now. I don't really want to explain it all, or know how to. I don't want to spend Christmas talking about it either. I deffinately don't want to talk about it then. Anyway I look forward to hearing from the family on Christmas.
Say merry Christmas to Josh and it sounds like he's doing great. Keep tearing it up!!!! The snow is fun, we've been getting a ton of it too.
I've sent a bunch of stuff, but we've got a big day ahead. I'm on exchanges right now with Elder Condhe, and he's been done emailing for a while and he's been waiting. I think he's ready to go, and we have other stuff to get done before we meet everyone in Dekalb. I should probably get going. I love you tons. I didn't hear from dad or spencer?
Love ya tons. I can't wait to hear what you think of what I got you. That's probably the only thing I'm really excited about for phone calls because I don't know what else to say, except hi, I'm a missionary. I just want to hear what you think of my gift. Love ya tons, talk to ya soon
Elder Adams
Yeah I hope it doesn't sell for that much either, but do I have any other choice, but to be stuck with it.
Yeah I don't know when I'm calling, it's all a jumble. I'm not too worried about it though.
Well Bro. Challis has probably already put it online. I gave him the pics yesterday. Plus that would mean I'd have to ship it home or pack it around with me, and try to find space to bring it home. We just hope for the best.
I'll be calling on Christmas Day. And we will probably be calling from a members home. They said that it doesn't cost them. Not for sure on the time though. Who knows I could end up calling from the cell phone, but then I'd have to do it before 7am or after 7pm.
Deffinately!! I thought about getting Zach something but I didn't know what and I didn't want it to go to waste if he wasn't writing me back. I still haven't got a letter back from him.
I'm just checking these emails from you and responding, I've already written pres. Today we are going bowling as a district then probably out to dinner, and then we are going caroling and trying to give out joy to the world dvds and then share a spiritual message. It's a great finding idea that we are going to try. We are all meeting in Dekalb. Just keep writing back I'm waiting for your emails to come through.
It's incredible to think about. 2 years ago today I received my patriarchal blessing. I read through it this morning. I plan to read through it tonight again. It's hard to believe it's been two years since then. Tell the Thomas' thank you so much, that I owe a great debt of gratitude to them for their sacrifice, so that I can continue to serve out here. The ward is so supportive. I love you too mom.
My companion is officially ridiculous with Christmas. He has received so many packages and cards. Two full size moving boxes came for him yesterday, another smaller one a day or so ago, and the table that our tree is on has a bunch of holiday cards on it. The whole table is packed with his stuff under the tree. There isn't even any room for my Christmas to sit under the tree. His stuff is even stacked, it almost covers the tree. He's also opened some of his stuff. We all got a plastic bag at zone conference, and I didn't open mine, but he opened his. We also got a holiday pillow case. I have mine on my pillow from last year. Anyway, he's gone crazy with Christmas or at least his family has, and he hasn't even got the things from his girlfriend. He spent a lot of money on gifts, well over three hundred.
I remember a lot of things. That was the same day that I finished reading the Book of Mormon for the first time, and I wrote my testimony in the cover of my copy of the Book of Mormon. It's a significant day for me. I finished reading the Book of Mormon just a little before we went over to brother Stones house for the blessing.
I remember I finished reading it upstairs in your room and that's where I wrote in the front cover of the Book of Mormon.
Tell michelle thanks for the card. Those kids have grown up, that's incredible!!! I hope that you got my Christmas cards that I sent, make sure to send one to the bullocks one for you and then you can give the others to whom ever you like. Or go to a photo place and scan it to make some more if you like.
I read of your concern mom. I had interviews with president yesterday. He won't let me extend my mission. The other thing that he is asking that is hard, is he doesn't want me to wake up early and exercise anymore. He doesn't want me to worry about time spent at members and different things like that. He basically doesn't want me to stress, I have to drop the typical missionary hat. He said that he talked to you about my papers and if I had ever had anorexia, and that my papers said no. So I know that you have been talking to my mission president mom. This is a really frustrating thing my pres trying to control me when my comp doesn't follow other rules and I'm supposed to stop doing something that I've done my whole mission. I don't think I can do it. Yesterday was frustrating interview with president. Obedience has been a thing I've preached before but I'm having a hard time with this one. There's a lot of frustration right now. I don't really want to explain it all, or know how to. I don't want to spend Christmas talking about it either. I deffinately don't want to talk about it then. Anyway I look forward to hearing from the family on Christmas.
Say merry Christmas to Josh and it sounds like he's doing great. Keep tearing it up!!!! The snow is fun, we've been getting a ton of it too.
I've sent a bunch of stuff, but we've got a big day ahead. I'm on exchanges right now with Elder Condhe, and he's been done emailing for a while and he's been waiting. I think he's ready to go, and we have other stuff to get done before we meet everyone in Dekalb. I should probably get going. I love you tons. I didn't hear from dad or spencer?
Love ya tons. I can't wait to hear what you think of what I got you. That's probably the only thing I'm really excited about for phone calls because I don't know what else to say, except hi, I'm a missionary. I just want to hear what you think of my gift. Love ya tons, talk to ya soon
Elder Adams
Sunday, December 20, 2009
December 16, 2009
It's 4 Degrees outside today, quite chilly. Last Thursday it was -1 in the morning. This is the temperature without windchill figured in. Chuck Crome told us that with windchill Thursday was about -43, nice! Thanks for the letter dad, that's a good one. Pray about who you should have ordain you, but that is awesome that you are going to be a high priest. I didn't get the Christmas card that the smiths tried to email me or that you and mom tried to email. I can't pull it up. I love you tons dad. I'm trying to stay warm, just have to perservere through it. I look forward to hearing from you next week.
Love Elder Adams
Did you get the check for 600 from brother Fomby so that I can give him my check. I also got your package. I have plenty of money to print off pictures the cartridge like I said serves no purpose. Email me back as soon as you can if you got the check, he said that he sent it last week. I'll be on for a little bit, check your mail frequently that's the key
I did, but I can just send you pictures. I know you're a mom you feel like you have to care and give and nurture. It's your nature. I've told members how I feel about all this and they say it's just what you have to do. I'm telling you though I don't think I will be using the cartridge. As for the tree and ornaments, I must ask why? We have a tree, fairly good size one that was left in our apartment, and it is set up in our study room. My companion also got a tree from his parents and ornaments and lights and has it set up on his desk. I love you mom.
The Check from the insurance companion that is made out to me. He wrote you a check written out to you from his account. So I have to reimburse him with this check. It was the best way, that way I didn't send my check that I had signed through the mail. Does this all make sense? I'm trying to explain it as best I can.
That's good to hear there's some news and an encounter with Zach. Keep in touch with him. I'll be waiting for that letter. I've got Christmas cards that I made last Wednesday and I'm picking them up this Friday so that's when I'll send them out and then you can take one to Zach. I love you tons, hurry and write back, times a wasting.
This is what President Doll has sent us about phone calls and about Christmas. I don't know when we are going to do phone calls I really don't.
Elders and Sisters – Here are several items for your
attention:
Christmas Schedule: We’d like you to follow a schedule similar to Thanksgiving. On Wednesday, December 23rd take the morning for e-mail, shopping, etc. The rest of the day is missionary work. Your weekly planning should be done on Thursday, December 24th but you can choose when during the day you want to do it. The rest of the day should be spent in missionary work. On Friday, December 25th you can enjoy Christmas until 6:00p.
Christmas Phone Calls: Please enjoy calling your immediate family on either December 24th or December 25th. If you’ll be using a mission cell phone then call either before 7:00a or after 7:00p. Or, you may use a member’s phone if offered. Please keep your call at 45 minutes or less. For questions or exceptions, please call me.
Spending Time With Members: During the holidays (and at other times) missionaries are invited to member homes to enjoy a meal and spend time. Let’s be sure to exhibit the highest standard of behavior and courtesy. Staying beyond two hours is probably too long (one hour for a regular dinner appointment). Let’s be sure that members continue to see us in the sacred calling we have.
Good work on spotting Zach at Wal-Mart, it's good to hear that progress is being made. I love you mom. This is the best news I've heard in a long time.
We are continuing to teach Jared Ashley. We meet with him about once a week, usually for dinner and a lesson with him and his mom. All we can do is wait until President Merrill sees that he is ready, which he predicts will probably be sometime in February. He’s already committed to baptism a while ago, and we’ve almost finished teaching him everything. We were able to pick up a new investigator this week. It is the girlfriend of a member of the branch who is now starting to come back. She is 20, has a child and they are not married, but live together. They had us over for dinner and we were able to teach them both. This is probably our greatest prospective lead. We met one man while tracting who let us in. When we had finished sharing a brief first lesson with him, he said that he had just finished praying that he would not be ignorant to the truth and that he would learn the things that he needs to. He said he feels that us showing up is a sign,and that things don't just happen, they happen for a reason. He was basically praying to God to be shown the way and then we knocked on the door. The other incredible thing about this is that before we went out to tract on this morning, Elder Bryner had prayed that we would be let into some doors so that we wouldn't have to stay out in the cold the whole time, because we had no lessons set up. This man's name is Randy, and he seems really sincere. What's more God has directed him and us to meet each other in another incredible miracle. After we taught him we went maybe one or two more houses and were let in again to teach a Hispanic man. This was a lot of success for us. I think it came because we had prepared ourselves in the morning to be sharing door approaches. I also gave some advice to Elder Bryner to try and just begin teaching and to teach as much as possible. He took my advice and we were blessed. Both of us were really trying to teach and testify, and to change up our approaches at the doors. It really was incredible.
However, I'm worried Elder Bryner has lost all faith and motivation in tracting at all. He doesn't seem enthusiastic about it in the least bit. Not even really enthusiastic in companionship study. It's more like I'm reading scriptures to him while he is reclined back. Our experience out tracting was sort of a one time deal for him in being excited. I think he’s really getting frustrated. It probably doesn’t help that we had the police called on us again on Saturday night. We also had a man following us in his van when we went back to our car. He then yelled at us, asking if we knocked on his door. When he asked who we were I explained we are missionaries sharing a message about Christ and tried to take a step towards him, but he yelled at me again and told me to stay away. It’s like when you put on the nametag you are no longer a normal human being, and you are not to be respected. We talked to President about all of this Police business, and how Elder Bryner doesn’t feel we should be tracting after 8:00. We had one policeman tell us this but that it is not against the law, it’s just that people will get angry. President says that we should try and teach members or less actives during this time and not tract. I think this is just running scared, because it’s not against the law and the Police don’t do anything. I guess what President and my companion say is that it’s bad public reputation if we do it, and it doesn’t help us. I think about it though and the Cromes were found tracting at about 8:45. Anyway, we are like some kind of juvenile delinquents to the people and the police here in Byron. We won’t be tracting anymore after 8:00. It’s just not like me to back down, especially from persecution.
The Cromes we continue to meet with once a week. They usually have us over for dinner and a lesson, and we answer questions and teach them the lessons. They are strong and are continuing to progress.
So Christmas, I don't know what the schedule is going to be. It could be different. I will probably end up letting you know next wednesday, sorry short notice. 6pm your time would be 7pm my time right? I don't think that would work, because prep day ends at 6pm. I don't know I'll talk to president this Friday and see what he says this new schedule is different. I love you tons and I will look to hear from you next week.
Love Elder Adams
PS-last Thursday was -1 air temp, and -43 with windchill, today it is 4 air temp. It's a frosty one out here.
I send you those cd's with the pictures on them so then you can go to the store and pick out which ones you want to print off and put in the scrapbook and send to others. I'll send you some though. I've got to get going though we have a lot of things to do today I love you tons.
the smiths tried to send a christmas card and I can't open it it didn't come through on my email.
Love Elder Adams
Did you get the check for 600 from brother Fomby so that I can give him my check. I also got your package. I have plenty of money to print off pictures the cartridge like I said serves no purpose. Email me back as soon as you can if you got the check, he said that he sent it last week. I'll be on for a little bit, check your mail frequently that's the key
I did, but I can just send you pictures. I know you're a mom you feel like you have to care and give and nurture. It's your nature. I've told members how I feel about all this and they say it's just what you have to do. I'm telling you though I don't think I will be using the cartridge. As for the tree and ornaments, I must ask why? We have a tree, fairly good size one that was left in our apartment, and it is set up in our study room. My companion also got a tree from his parents and ornaments and lights and has it set up on his desk. I love you mom.
The Check from the insurance companion that is made out to me. He wrote you a check written out to you from his account. So I have to reimburse him with this check. It was the best way, that way I didn't send my check that I had signed through the mail. Does this all make sense? I'm trying to explain it as best I can.
That's good to hear there's some news and an encounter with Zach. Keep in touch with him. I'll be waiting for that letter. I've got Christmas cards that I made last Wednesday and I'm picking them up this Friday so that's when I'll send them out and then you can take one to Zach. I love you tons, hurry and write back, times a wasting.
This is what President Doll has sent us about phone calls and about Christmas. I don't know when we are going to do phone calls I really don't.
Elders and Sisters – Here are several items for your
attention:
Christmas Schedule: We’d like you to follow a schedule similar to Thanksgiving. On Wednesday, December 23rd take the morning for e-mail, shopping, etc. The rest of the day is missionary work. Your weekly planning should be done on Thursday, December 24th but you can choose when during the day you want to do it. The rest of the day should be spent in missionary work. On Friday, December 25th you can enjoy Christmas until 6:00p.
Christmas Phone Calls: Please enjoy calling your immediate family on either December 24th or December 25th. If you’ll be using a mission cell phone then call either before 7:00a or after 7:00p. Or, you may use a member’s phone if offered. Please keep your call at 45 minutes or less. For questions or exceptions, please call me.
Spending Time With Members: During the holidays (and at other times) missionaries are invited to member homes to enjoy a meal and spend time. Let’s be sure to exhibit the highest standard of behavior and courtesy. Staying beyond two hours is probably too long (one hour for a regular dinner appointment). Let’s be sure that members continue to see us in the sacred calling we have.
Good work on spotting Zach at Wal-Mart, it's good to hear that progress is being made. I love you mom. This is the best news I've heard in a long time.
We are continuing to teach Jared Ashley. We meet with him about once a week, usually for dinner and a lesson with him and his mom. All we can do is wait until President Merrill sees that he is ready, which he predicts will probably be sometime in February. He’s already committed to baptism a while ago, and we’ve almost finished teaching him everything. We were able to pick up a new investigator this week. It is the girlfriend of a member of the branch who is now starting to come back. She is 20, has a child and they are not married, but live together. They had us over for dinner and we were able to teach them both. This is probably our greatest prospective lead. We met one man while tracting who let us in. When we had finished sharing a brief first lesson with him, he said that he had just finished praying that he would not be ignorant to the truth and that he would learn the things that he needs to. He said he feels that us showing up is a sign,and that things don't just happen, they happen for a reason. He was basically praying to God to be shown the way and then we knocked on the door. The other incredible thing about this is that before we went out to tract on this morning, Elder Bryner had prayed that we would be let into some doors so that we wouldn't have to stay out in the cold the whole time, because we had no lessons set up. This man's name is Randy, and he seems really sincere. What's more God has directed him and us to meet each other in another incredible miracle. After we taught him we went maybe one or two more houses and were let in again to teach a Hispanic man. This was a lot of success for us. I think it came because we had prepared ourselves in the morning to be sharing door approaches. I also gave some advice to Elder Bryner to try and just begin teaching and to teach as much as possible. He took my advice and we were blessed. Both of us were really trying to teach and testify, and to change up our approaches at the doors. It really was incredible.
However, I'm worried Elder Bryner has lost all faith and motivation in tracting at all. He doesn't seem enthusiastic about it in the least bit. Not even really enthusiastic in companionship study. It's more like I'm reading scriptures to him while he is reclined back. Our experience out tracting was sort of a one time deal for him in being excited. I think he’s really getting frustrated. It probably doesn’t help that we had the police called on us again on Saturday night. We also had a man following us in his van when we went back to our car. He then yelled at us, asking if we knocked on his door. When he asked who we were I explained we are missionaries sharing a message about Christ and tried to take a step towards him, but he yelled at me again and told me to stay away. It’s like when you put on the nametag you are no longer a normal human being, and you are not to be respected. We talked to President about all of this Police business, and how Elder Bryner doesn’t feel we should be tracting after 8:00. We had one policeman tell us this but that it is not against the law, it’s just that people will get angry. President says that we should try and teach members or less actives during this time and not tract. I think this is just running scared, because it’s not against the law and the Police don’t do anything. I guess what President and my companion say is that it’s bad public reputation if we do it, and it doesn’t help us. I think about it though and the Cromes were found tracting at about 8:45. Anyway, we are like some kind of juvenile delinquents to the people and the police here in Byron. We won’t be tracting anymore after 8:00. It’s just not like me to back down, especially from persecution.
The Cromes we continue to meet with once a week. They usually have us over for dinner and a lesson, and we answer questions and teach them the lessons. They are strong and are continuing to progress.
So Christmas, I don't know what the schedule is going to be. It could be different. I will probably end up letting you know next wednesday, sorry short notice. 6pm your time would be 7pm my time right? I don't think that would work, because prep day ends at 6pm. I don't know I'll talk to president this Friday and see what he says this new schedule is different. I love you tons and I will look to hear from you next week.
Love Elder Adams
PS-last Thursday was -1 air temp, and -43 with windchill, today it is 4 air temp. It's a frosty one out here.
I send you those cd's with the pictures on them so then you can go to the store and pick out which ones you want to print off and put in the scrapbook and send to others. I'll send you some though. I've got to get going though we have a lot of things to do today I love you tons.
the smiths tried to send a christmas card and I can't open it it didn't come through on my email.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
December 9, 2009
Hurry, we have been dumped on with snow and we are going out in it.
Transfer calls were yesterday and Elder Bryner and I have both been transferred out of Byron. No, we are both staying here in Byron together for at least another transfer. So that means that I will have spent all of the Holidays with Elder Bryner. It also means that I will have celebrated my birthday his 20th birthday was on Monday, and then his year mark is on the 17. All sorts of celebrations for us together.
We had the Christmas Devotional on Sunday broadcast at the church. I can’t believe it’s been 2 months since General conference, and a year since the last Christmas message. I can still remember it like it was yesterday. I remember the one before also.
So we’ve had our first snowfalls this past week. It’s actually been snowing for about 2 days. I have now outfitted myself in my Soreli boots, and I am ready for combat with old man winter. Yesterday my companion and I did something that I have never done on my mission. It’s called shovel tracting. One of you goes to the door to knock and to speak to the person while the other begins shoveling the walkway to the door. This with the intention that their hearts will be softened by us performing service. For me it’s also a good way to stay warm. We shovel tracted for an hour and a half yesterday. Some people don’t want you to shovel their walkway and still others reject you. One lady was kind enough to talk to us as we helped her with her walkway, since she was out shoveling. I saw my reflection in a door when we were doing this last night and my jacket was covered in snow. I looked like I’d been in a tundra. We also helped out some of the branch members to get their driveways and sidewalks taken care of. This weather certainly provides for a lot of service opportunities.
This week Elder Bryner and I have been noticing that the persecutions that we have been facing have continued. In the past couple weeks we have had the cops called on us twice, people seem to be rejecting us, and we've had two notes left on doors when we've showed up for appointments, saying that they have changed their minds and are no longer interested. Elder Bryner says this is probably the worst that he has seen it on his mission. I haven’t beat my record yet of 10 times having the cops called on me during my time in North Shore. On top of this all, the other day Shane told us he didn't have time to go to church and that he and Bambi will no longer be meeting with us. So we lost that family that we have been teaching. JR came to church but his interest when we teach him is lacking. We are just really struggling to find people to teach. It seems that everyone that we do find, and set up an appointment with, will later call and cancel the appointment. We talked about how much of these "hard times" we are facing, and we both agree that there must be some good ahead of us that Satan is trying to prevent us from reaching. He wants us to get discouraged. Elder Bryner said that anytime in his life just before something good is about to happen, there has been the worst of times. We are continuing to push through it and are striving to find some people to teach. It just seems like everyone is dropping us. It hasn't been all bad though, we have had a few very positive lessons and interactions with people that will hopefully lead us to something. We are just keeping in mind that we must be like Nephi and continue to declare the word with unwarryingness, regardless of what happens or whether or not success comes.
We met with Mary and John Whitt on Saturday. She is very angry still with her husband and the woman he cheated on her with. She has also had a lifetime, since childhood, of abuse. She's angry with God, and does not want to forgive or have the Savior forgive anyone that has wronged her. It was sad to see the grip that Satan had on her. We read a talk from an Ensign, that shed some light on these matters and we bore our testimonies of the atonement, and tried to offer guidance in forgiving and having faith, so that she can experience peace. They were very thankful at the end. They said that we seemed very wise for our age, and that we handled the situation very well. They said others didn't really know how to handle it before, that they had spoken with. Hopefully progress can be made here.
The Cromes also had a great time at the temple this Saturday. Marissa and Chuck went and performed baptisms for the dead. It's hard to believe that it has been one month since the time of their baptism and now they are already doing temple work for others. On Sunday Marissa got up in Sacrament meeting and bore her testimony. She said she only wished that she could have learned the gospel when she was younger. She also talked about the happiness that she felt at the temple. It's incredible the progress and the testimonies of these two converts. Her testimony is so pure and simple, everyone seems to quiet down and to listen more intently. There's power in her simple words because of the simple yet strong faith that she has.
As part of my personal study I am now going through all of the parables that Christ teaches and studying them. This is proving to be helpful, I was actually able to use one of them on a doorstep, and another in a member lesson. I love when study becomes applicable. I am learning so much from these parables, especially application for my own life. I think there's a reason Christ is referred to as the master teacher. It's like I'm reviewing his lesson plans, that is bound to help me become a better teacher. I am also reading through a 21 day walk with Christ for the Christmas season. As you can see I have a lot to study.
I am excited to be serving another transfer her in Byron with Elder Bryner. We just need to find a way to find some people. This last transfer went by so fast, it's incredible. I think it was the fastest transfer of my whole mission, I blinked and it was gone. Well we don't have a lot of time today, we are going to be busy. Let Josh know that I enjoyed his letter, and a Donner sounds a lot like a Gyro. Interesting although I have never had either.
Thank you so much for your emails family, and you are in my prayers always. I love you all.
Love Elder Adams
P.S.- I set up my nativity scene the other day that you gave me last Christmas. It sits right in front of me on my study desk.
Yeah I'm on too but I am just about to leave. I just finished and we are super busy today. Bro. Fomby wanted to wait to send the check to see if I got transfered so it should be coming now.
Sorry I've got to get going. If there's anything that you need to tell me, you just have to write it immediately when you get on. You can't just write I'M here. I love you and we can try again next week.
Thanks mom, I love you too. I'll chat to ya next week.
just kidding I thought my companion was done I have a few more seconds.
We also did service this past week at a food pantry and clothing resale shop. I was actually able to talk to the lady that was training me back by the food shelves. My companion was assigned to work in the clothing. When people would come into fill their orders I could even talk to them about the church. I gave our website card out to one one lady. It makes you feel good when you do service and share the gospel. That's why I don't understand why I should ever have to change all this. I'm happy, this works for me. This is working for me, I don't want to have to find some other way to be happy in life. Just doing the Lords work.
Transfer calls were yesterday and Elder Bryner and I have both been transferred out of Byron. No, we are both staying here in Byron together for at least another transfer. So that means that I will have spent all of the Holidays with Elder Bryner. It also means that I will have celebrated my birthday his 20th birthday was on Monday, and then his year mark is on the 17. All sorts of celebrations for us together.
We had the Christmas Devotional on Sunday broadcast at the church. I can’t believe it’s been 2 months since General conference, and a year since the last Christmas message. I can still remember it like it was yesterday. I remember the one before also.
So we’ve had our first snowfalls this past week. It’s actually been snowing for about 2 days. I have now outfitted myself in my Soreli boots, and I am ready for combat with old man winter. Yesterday my companion and I did something that I have never done on my mission. It’s called shovel tracting. One of you goes to the door to knock and to speak to the person while the other begins shoveling the walkway to the door. This with the intention that their hearts will be softened by us performing service. For me it’s also a good way to stay warm. We shovel tracted for an hour and a half yesterday. Some people don’t want you to shovel their walkway and still others reject you. One lady was kind enough to talk to us as we helped her with her walkway, since she was out shoveling. I saw my reflection in a door when we were doing this last night and my jacket was covered in snow. I looked like I’d been in a tundra. We also helped out some of the branch members to get their driveways and sidewalks taken care of. This weather certainly provides for a lot of service opportunities.
This week Elder Bryner and I have been noticing that the persecutions that we have been facing have continued. In the past couple weeks we have had the cops called on us twice, people seem to be rejecting us, and we've had two notes left on doors when we've showed up for appointments, saying that they have changed their minds and are no longer interested. Elder Bryner says this is probably the worst that he has seen it on his mission. I haven’t beat my record yet of 10 times having the cops called on me during my time in North Shore. On top of this all, the other day Shane told us he didn't have time to go to church and that he and Bambi will no longer be meeting with us. So we lost that family that we have been teaching. JR came to church but his interest when we teach him is lacking. We are just really struggling to find people to teach. It seems that everyone that we do find, and set up an appointment with, will later call and cancel the appointment. We talked about how much of these "hard times" we are facing, and we both agree that there must be some good ahead of us that Satan is trying to prevent us from reaching. He wants us to get discouraged. Elder Bryner said that anytime in his life just before something good is about to happen, there has been the worst of times. We are continuing to push through it and are striving to find some people to teach. It just seems like everyone is dropping us. It hasn't been all bad though, we have had a few very positive lessons and interactions with people that will hopefully lead us to something. We are just keeping in mind that we must be like Nephi and continue to declare the word with unwarryingness, regardless of what happens or whether or not success comes.
We met with Mary and John Whitt on Saturday. She is very angry still with her husband and the woman he cheated on her with. She has also had a lifetime, since childhood, of abuse. She's angry with God, and does not want to forgive or have the Savior forgive anyone that has wronged her. It was sad to see the grip that Satan had on her. We read a talk from an Ensign, that shed some light on these matters and we bore our testimonies of the atonement, and tried to offer guidance in forgiving and having faith, so that she can experience peace. They were very thankful at the end. They said that we seemed very wise for our age, and that we handled the situation very well. They said others didn't really know how to handle it before, that they had spoken with. Hopefully progress can be made here.
The Cromes also had a great time at the temple this Saturday. Marissa and Chuck went and performed baptisms for the dead. It's hard to believe that it has been one month since the time of their baptism and now they are already doing temple work for others. On Sunday Marissa got up in Sacrament meeting and bore her testimony. She said she only wished that she could have learned the gospel when she was younger. She also talked about the happiness that she felt at the temple. It's incredible the progress and the testimonies of these two converts. Her testimony is so pure and simple, everyone seems to quiet down and to listen more intently. There's power in her simple words because of the simple yet strong faith that she has.
As part of my personal study I am now going through all of the parables that Christ teaches and studying them. This is proving to be helpful, I was actually able to use one of them on a doorstep, and another in a member lesson. I love when study becomes applicable. I am learning so much from these parables, especially application for my own life. I think there's a reason Christ is referred to as the master teacher. It's like I'm reviewing his lesson plans, that is bound to help me become a better teacher. I am also reading through a 21 day walk with Christ for the Christmas season. As you can see I have a lot to study.
I am excited to be serving another transfer her in Byron with Elder Bryner. We just need to find a way to find some people. This last transfer went by so fast, it's incredible. I think it was the fastest transfer of my whole mission, I blinked and it was gone. Well we don't have a lot of time today, we are going to be busy. Let Josh know that I enjoyed his letter, and a Donner sounds a lot like a Gyro. Interesting although I have never had either.
Thank you so much for your emails family, and you are in my prayers always. I love you all.
Love Elder Adams
P.S.- I set up my nativity scene the other day that you gave me last Christmas. It sits right in front of me on my study desk.
Yeah I'm on too but I am just about to leave. I just finished and we are super busy today. Bro. Fomby wanted to wait to send the check to see if I got transfered so it should be coming now.
Sorry I've got to get going. If there's anything that you need to tell me, you just have to write it immediately when you get on. You can't just write I'M here. I love you and we can try again next week.
Thanks mom, I love you too. I'll chat to ya next week.
just kidding I thought my companion was done I have a few more seconds.
We also did service this past week at a food pantry and clothing resale shop. I was actually able to talk to the lady that was training me back by the food shelves. My companion was assigned to work in the clothing. When people would come into fill their orders I could even talk to them about the church. I gave our website card out to one one lady. It makes you feel good when you do service and share the gospel. That's why I don't understand why I should ever have to change all this. I'm happy, this works for me. This is working for me, I don't want to have to find some other way to be happy in life. Just doing the Lords work.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
December 2, 2009
Oh man....it's time to battle the winter storms again. I've dreaded these days since I opened my call letter. I've got to face them again. Here we go!! Thanksgiving was awesome. Probably one of the Best every. Everything is better on a mission, I'm just going to tell you that. I don't want you to feel like you're not loved but, it's just good on a mission. We had our Thanksgiving with the Cromes (who were just baptized), and the Fomby Family. It was so great to have the Cromes there. My companion and I actually baked 2 pies to take over there. Everyone was impressed, a lot of people don't think that missionaries can cook. My companion made a banana cream pie, and I made this pie that we got a recipe for from a lady while we were out knocking doors the day before Thanksgiving. She had just finished baking it and we commented on the smell of her house. We then asked her for the recipe and she wrote it down. We then embarked the attempt. It worked out. No one tried it though, I didn't even try it on Thanksgiving, I was too full. I tried it on Sunday though, and it is amazing!! It's called Tollhouse pie.
I really liked your testimony dad. Thanks for you love and support. This Church is so true. If only people knew this. A lot of people don't realize what they are missing. I've often times said that people look at the faith in God and religion like buying a refrigerator, you don't buy a new one unless the old one is broken. Regardless of if there is something out there that is bigger better and will save more energy. People are content to just make do with what they have, regardless of if we tell them that there is more out there, and we tell them of the blessings that their families can have. What did you think of the scriptures? I love you dad, Have a great week.
Love Elder Adams
I don't know if that's enough of a reason to buy a whole printer though. And Now to have to buy ink...I can make these homemade Christmas cards at the stores where you print off pictures. If that's all I'm going to use it for it makes more sense to just do it that way. I like the idea though, to make a homemade Christmas card!!!! Thank you so much, now that is a genius idea!!!!
The Fomby's are going to be sending you a Check for 600 written out to you. You can then deposit the check in your account and then transfer 600 from your account to mine. I then will give my check to the Fomby's to put in their account. This way I don't have to mail a check that I've endorsed in the mail and have it get stolen. Bro Fomby is our ward mission leader. I'll be online for 15 more min.
Thanksgiving was awesome. Probably one of the Best every. Everything is better on a mission, I'm just going to tell you that. I don't want you to feel like you're not loved but, it's just good on a mission. We had our Thanksgiving with the Cromes (who were just baptized), and the Fomby Family. It was so great to have the Cromes there. Ok, so mom I love your yams....they are good, but....Sister Fomby made some amazing sweet potatoes!!!! The only down side was that she made the sweet potato part thin. It was like half topping half sweet potatoe. It was amazing though. I like how yours has the deeper dish yam part. However she did make an amazing topping. Her husband is in the navy and they have traveled the world. She got her recipe from when they were in Cairo, Egypt. She used pecans, brown sugar, and coconut. The Fomby's also had a friend of there's over that had flown in from New York. She has a british accent, because she has lived in London, but she is actually from Egypt!! She's muslim also. She was really interesting to talk to. She sat by me at the table, and it is incredible how much the muslim faith has in common with us. They are closer to us than half of the other Christian churches out there that we talk to. They even believe in 3 kingdoms of glory after this life. She's really nice. The Fomby's even had a nice warm fire going. My companion and I actually baked 2 pies to take over there. Everyone was impressed, a lot of people don't think that missionaries can cook. My companion made a banana cream pie, and I made this pie that we got a recipe for from a lady while we were out knocking doors the day before Thanksgiving. She had just finished baking it and we commented on the smell of her house. We then asked her for the recipe and she wrote it down. We then embarked the attempt. It worked out. No one tried it though, I didn't even try it on Thanksgiving, I was too full. I tried it on Sunday though, and it is amazing!! It's called Tollhouse pie.
We came into contact with a less active family, the Whitts. The parents and 8 children were baptized in 2005, but fell away in 2007. The mother used to be Catholic and has now gone back. The whole family now attends a catholic church. This all happened when the husband cheated on the wife (they are still married though). They were preparing to go to the temple and everything. This led to her having sort of a mental breakdown. She was in tears as we talked with her and her husband. They said that everyone was nice when they first came into the Church but when the crisis struck they felt like they didn't have the support they needed. So It's now become the project for Elder Bryner and I to bring this family back, and to solidify the Cromes. They need to be grounded in some solid branch member friendships. As I listened to this families story I couldn't help but think of the newly baptized Cromes. I was worried for them. I don't want to see the same thing happen to the Cromes.
I had an incredible exchange with Elder Rudd. Declaring repentance and warning of the consequences of sin!! We were bold!!! It was incredible!!! We did a lot of tracting, but it was so powerful. It's this new whole idea of promising blessings, bearing testimony, and then telling them flat out what they will be missing out on if they don't do it. If they don't accept the message, or if you are teaching someone, you warn them of what will happen if they don't start keeping a certain commandment or if they don't come to Church. You be bold and upfront, you tell it how it is!!!! I love it, you feel like one of the ancient prophets of old declaring repentance!!!! You're raising the warning voice!! It feels so good. Nothing beats those feelings of testifying on someone's doorstep, and walking away knowing you've fulfilled your purpose and done your duty. You feel really good at the end of the day. I love it!!! This Church is so true. If only people knew this. A lot of people don't realize what they are missing. I've often times said that people look at the faith in God and religion like buying a refrigerator, you don't buy a new one unless the old one is broken. Regardless of if there is something out there that is bigger better and will save more energy. People are content to just make do with what they have, regardless of if we tell them that there is more out there, and we tell them of the blessings that their families can have.
Josh: All I can say is continue onward. The Lord will bless you for declaring the word with unwarryingness, as long as you are doing what you know you are supposed to be doing. Read Helamen 10:3-6, just keep this in mind. You just keep on declaring. There will be many a missionary who lacks in zeal. You know your purpose, work hard and the lord will lead you by the hand, and he will bless you. He ALWAYS recognizes his faithful servants hard work. I promise you this in all the time of my service on my mission. Stay strong brother and keep it going. Sometimes your companions won't want to obey certain rules or won't want to talk to people or won't want to tract, but you and I know why we are out here and why we have been called so we can do what we have been called to do no matter what stands in our way. We go out every day because there are countless drops of the Saviors precious blood that have already been spilt for our brothers and sisters and if they don't know about our message then they can't repent and take advantage of his gift and sacrifice and blood falls unnoticed and unnaccounted for. We have to bring this gift to them. The Savior has already felt the pain, we cannot let it go to waste, we have a duty to fulfill for our salvation and for theirs. In the name of Jesus Christ amen.
I love you Elder Josh Adams.
I've got to go now we are getting together as a zone to play some basketball in Rockford. I love you all.
Love Elder Adams
I really liked your testimony dad. Thanks for you love and support. This Church is so true. If only people knew this. A lot of people don't realize what they are missing. I've often times said that people look at the faith in God and religion like buying a refrigerator, you don't buy a new one unless the old one is broken. Regardless of if there is something out there that is bigger better and will save more energy. People are content to just make do with what they have, regardless of if we tell them that there is more out there, and we tell them of the blessings that their families can have. What did you think of the scriptures? I love you dad, Have a great week.
Love Elder Adams
I don't know if that's enough of a reason to buy a whole printer though. And Now to have to buy ink...I can make these homemade Christmas cards at the stores where you print off pictures. If that's all I'm going to use it for it makes more sense to just do it that way. I like the idea though, to make a homemade Christmas card!!!! Thank you so much, now that is a genius idea!!!!
The Fomby's are going to be sending you a Check for 600 written out to you. You can then deposit the check in your account and then transfer 600 from your account to mine. I then will give my check to the Fomby's to put in their account. This way I don't have to mail a check that I've endorsed in the mail and have it get stolen. Bro Fomby is our ward mission leader. I'll be online for 15 more min.
Thanksgiving was awesome. Probably one of the Best every. Everything is better on a mission, I'm just going to tell you that. I don't want you to feel like you're not loved but, it's just good on a mission. We had our Thanksgiving with the Cromes (who were just baptized), and the Fomby Family. It was so great to have the Cromes there. Ok, so mom I love your yams....they are good, but....Sister Fomby made some amazing sweet potatoes!!!! The only down side was that she made the sweet potato part thin. It was like half topping half sweet potatoe. It was amazing though. I like how yours has the deeper dish yam part. However she did make an amazing topping. Her husband is in the navy and they have traveled the world. She got her recipe from when they were in Cairo, Egypt. She used pecans, brown sugar, and coconut. The Fomby's also had a friend of there's over that had flown in from New York. She has a british accent, because she has lived in London, but she is actually from Egypt!! She's muslim also. She was really interesting to talk to. She sat by me at the table, and it is incredible how much the muslim faith has in common with us. They are closer to us than half of the other Christian churches out there that we talk to. They even believe in 3 kingdoms of glory after this life. She's really nice. The Fomby's even had a nice warm fire going. My companion and I actually baked 2 pies to take over there. Everyone was impressed, a lot of people don't think that missionaries can cook. My companion made a banana cream pie, and I made this pie that we got a recipe for from a lady while we were out knocking doors the day before Thanksgiving. She had just finished baking it and we commented on the smell of her house. We then asked her for the recipe and she wrote it down. We then embarked the attempt. It worked out. No one tried it though, I didn't even try it on Thanksgiving, I was too full. I tried it on Sunday though, and it is amazing!! It's called Tollhouse pie.
We came into contact with a less active family, the Whitts. The parents and 8 children were baptized in 2005, but fell away in 2007. The mother used to be Catholic and has now gone back. The whole family now attends a catholic church. This all happened when the husband cheated on the wife (they are still married though). They were preparing to go to the temple and everything. This led to her having sort of a mental breakdown. She was in tears as we talked with her and her husband. They said that everyone was nice when they first came into the Church but when the crisis struck they felt like they didn't have the support they needed. So It's now become the project for Elder Bryner and I to bring this family back, and to solidify the Cromes. They need to be grounded in some solid branch member friendships. As I listened to this families story I couldn't help but think of the newly baptized Cromes. I was worried for them. I don't want to see the same thing happen to the Cromes.
I had an incredible exchange with Elder Rudd. Declaring repentance and warning of the consequences of sin!! We were bold!!! It was incredible!!! We did a lot of tracting, but it was so powerful. It's this new whole idea of promising blessings, bearing testimony, and then telling them flat out what they will be missing out on if they don't do it. If they don't accept the message, or if you are teaching someone, you warn them of what will happen if they don't start keeping a certain commandment or if they don't come to Church. You be bold and upfront, you tell it how it is!!!! I love it, you feel like one of the ancient prophets of old declaring repentance!!!! You're raising the warning voice!! It feels so good. Nothing beats those feelings of testifying on someone's doorstep, and walking away knowing you've fulfilled your purpose and done your duty. You feel really good at the end of the day. I love it!!! This Church is so true. If only people knew this. A lot of people don't realize what they are missing. I've often times said that people look at the faith in God and religion like buying a refrigerator, you don't buy a new one unless the old one is broken. Regardless of if there is something out there that is bigger better and will save more energy. People are content to just make do with what they have, regardless of if we tell them that there is more out there, and we tell them of the blessings that their families can have.
Josh: All I can say is continue onward. The Lord will bless you for declaring the word with unwarryingness, as long as you are doing what you know you are supposed to be doing. Read Helamen 10:3-6, just keep this in mind. You just keep on declaring. There will be many a missionary who lacks in zeal. You know your purpose, work hard and the lord will lead you by the hand, and he will bless you. He ALWAYS recognizes his faithful servants hard work. I promise you this in all the time of my service on my mission. Stay strong brother and keep it going. Sometimes your companions won't want to obey certain rules or won't want to talk to people or won't want to tract, but you and I know why we are out here and why we have been called so we can do what we have been called to do no matter what stands in our way. We go out every day because there are countless drops of the Saviors precious blood that have already been spilt for our brothers and sisters and if they don't know about our message then they can't repent and take advantage of his gift and sacrifice and blood falls unnoticed and unnaccounted for. We have to bring this gift to them. The Savior has already felt the pain, we cannot let it go to waste, we have a duty to fulfill for our salvation and for theirs. In the name of Jesus Christ amen.
I love you Elder Josh Adams.
I've got to go now we are getting together as a zone to play some basketball in Rockford. I love you all.
Love Elder Adams
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