Letter #21

So, man, I know that when you finally get this it might be P-day next Monday, a couple days before the 4th of July!  That was my first holiday that I celebrated on the Mish as well.  I remember it like the back of my hand.  I had just gotten paired off with my new trainer of a companion, Elder McLaws.  We were invited for a 4th of July bbq at a less active member's.  We had barely whitewashed into the area (after some sisters), however, E. McLaws had been in the area before, so we weren't totally lost.  It was a fun party.  The highlight, though was when Lacey, the wife, brought out her taser to show everyone that was at her house that afternoon.  I wasn't scared, just amazed.

We went to watch the fireworks that the city of Marshalltown put on with the English Elders.  The funny thing was, I served a second time with Elder McLaws again at the time of the fourth of July.  That was the time that he and I painted our hair red.  I love love loved serving with Elder McLaws.  He was my daddy and he took care of me, especially after a hard transfer with Elder Porter.

I'm sure you are having the time of your life.  One of the things that I miss about emailing you everyday is how close to the spirit I felt when I shared what scriptures touched me, or lesson I learned.

I learned that in the Bible, and in the temple, when God says, "You shall have power to bruise his heel, but He shall have power to Crush thy head," he's saying that sure, he was crucified, nailed to the cross, beaten and suffered all manner of affliction, but even though it seems that Satan won, in the end, we will have power to crush Satan's head, because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.  Cool, huh?

I'm learning the Uke fast.  I just bought a Capo online and it should be here tomorrow.  I'm looking forward to playing with it as much as possible.  Although, I have found that playing songs with flats in it is much easier on a Uke than on a guitar.

I'm still chatting it up with Sarah Rebecca.  I would be surprised if this relationship doesn't lead to marriage.  She's just so great.

I'll probably get you again soon.  Love you man!

John

6/29 Overcoming the World, and Crushing Satan's head

I've had a good day.  I went to the gym without Mosiah, after calling him to see if he'd be ready, but for some reason, he wasn't.  We should be going out together tomorrow.  Freeform (cable channel) was showing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows part 1.  They were at the beginning when the group of 7 people take polyjuice potion to turn themselves into Harry.  "Don't look at me, I'm hideous," Fleur DeLa Ceur says, when she turns into Harry.

I can't really think of too much that happened today.  When I got home from the gym, Mom and Dad had just finished cooking Lomo Saltado (a very good Peruvian dish consisting of rice, french fries, fried tomatoes and onions and marinated pieces of meat).  It was very nice.  I didn't feel like eating too much.

I spoke with Sarah Rebecca about her relationship with her family and her mom's reaction to hearing that she has a new boyfriend, which was surprisingly accepting.  I now need to tell my mom that I would be surprised if I didn't get married to Sarah, because that is what she told her mom.  I briefly texted with Tyler Hudrlik today.  He told me not to rush into things after I told him how much I do love Sarah and think she's been led to me and that I feel she is the one.

I told Tyler Frederick (as he was spinning a fidget spinner not inconspicuously) that if I were his teacher, I would take it away from him.  He said sorry and put it away.

Institute was good.  We talked about Neil L. Anderson's talk about overcoming the world.  I loved a video that he shared about Spiritual Whirlwinds.

He also shared a new LDS video.

I learned, but probably relearned, that the scripture that talks about Satan Bruising the Heel but Christ Crushing the Head of the Serpent means that Christ suffered and was bruised, but because of his atonement and resurrection, he is able to crush the head of Satan and we are able to overcome him.  Thus the Talk, overcoming the world! 

I also did some family history, looking specifically for Daniel Palmer (on mom's line) and his descendant Helen Catherine Hutchinson.  All of this was done in preparation for Temple Sealings next Wednesday.  I'm looking forward to it.  I might do some more as I get ready for it.

Jacob's first email from the Field (Wednesday, June 28)

Hey Mom and Dad!! 

Wow!! So I have a few things I need to tell you, but I don't have a whole lot of time. I'm just here at the Church building right now, utilizing their Wi-Fi... We don't have Wi-Fi at our apartment, which totally sucks. But oh well.

So my trainer is named Elder Tanner Marcum. Ill tell you more about everything when I send my letter on Monday. I'm in an Area called Lewisberry, which is in the Harrisburg stake. It's in the far eastern part of the mission. President Johnson allows me to send this email whenever I get transferred to let you know my address, which is:

Elder Gonzales

520 Reno St. #6 

New Cumberland, PA 17070 

Do me a favor and let Sarah and Bana and everyone that wants to know my address know what it is. I probably won't be able to send out a group email until Monday, where I'll give you all the cool info and stuff. Love you!!

Elder Gonzales

6/28 Life's joys and Verizon helps

Life is crazy interesting.  I like and love Miss Sarah Rebecca, and I still have never met her in person.  That's why it is so crazy.  We're in love with each other and have already imagined a life together in the near future.  I can already see myself marrying her.  She is so cool, I just smile when I think about her and about how close we've gotten to each other.  So my plans are slowly forming.  I wrote questions that I am going to ask the college entrance counselors.  I'm going to start calling colleges tomorrow.  First the Utah ones.  The three that have a Communication Disorders program: U of U, BYU, and Utah State University.  I found out tonight that Sarah has student loan debt (which is probably the best debt to have) and that she has a little left to pay off her car, and lastly, some medical debt related to her ankle.  The good thing, is that right now, I have no debt, just the regular bills (phone and insurance).  So, all in all, we kinda balance each other out.  We're already talking about a future marriage (hopefully not too far into the future).  I'm grateful to have someone that loves me in a spousal way.  I am really hoping all works out soon.  She also made mention that she's looking forward to having more that four kids in the future and perhaps adopting as well.  Crazy.  All I can say is that I'm not opposed to it.

The Fawcetts dropped by at around 10:30 to visit and eat lunch with us.  It was nice to have them over.  I do love those guys and I hope they made it home safely.

I went to Verizon store to ask if they sell batteries for my cell phone.  The man told me that they don't sell batteries at their store.  He then checked my account, and now, since I've had the phone less than a year, and there are no cracks on the front or the back, I still have a warranty and he ordered me a new phone that should be here by Saturday.  That's interesting.  I was hoping that things I paid for will still be there.  He said that things transfer over so I shouldn't worry.

We got a letter from Jacob today with his new address.   He's in New Cumberland with Elder Tanner Marcum as his trainer.  Mom thought it was funny because it is close to the name of BYU's quarterback, Tanner Mangum.

I watched a good portion of Spider-man: Homecoming  Red Carpet Premiere at the Mann's Chinese Theater.  I particularly liked Tom Holland and Robert Downey, Jr.'s interviews.  It was on YouTube live.

I need to figure out what I'm going to do now.  I just finished studying from the Conference Issue and Gordon B. Hinckley Manual.  Maybe eat something.  I should be going to the gym tomorrow with Mosiah.

6/27 Expressions of Love

Wow-o-wow!  I know that Miss Sarah Rebecca Trefflich is the one!  We both declared our love for each other over a phone call.  So, I have to make plans to show Sarah how much I care for her.  She wants an outward demonstration of love.  She wants me to live in Utah for an undeclared amount of time.  It could be forever or it could be temporary, but as long as I am there for her for a certain amount of time, she will be good.  I know that I've never met her in person, but I feel like I already do know her so much and I'm learning something everyday, more to know about her and grow to love her more.  It doesn't take much.  I know she is a great person.  Caring and loving.  So I will have to make plans.  Good ones.  So instead of singing, "California Here I Come," I will be singing "Utah, Here I Come," in the next few months.  It could be exactly the change that I need, a good one.  I just love Sarah Rebecca so much.  I can't wait until we get married for time and all eternity in the House of the Lord.

I got up early this morning, only to watch three shows, talk quickly to Sarah, and then go back to sleep til lunch time.  We had Pizza.

I went with mom to get her hair cut and get groceries from the Food 4 Less grocery store.  It was a nice outing.  I like going with mom.

I talked to Briana for a good amount of time today.  I told her all the news, which was a lot to account for, because we hadn't talked in forever.  She wanted to know more about Sarah Rebecca, so I let her know all that I could remember.  I do love Briana with all my heart.  She and I have always been really close.

Mom and I watched America's got Talent
tonight.  Good episode, really cool card trick:

6/26 Fawcetts and DISNEYLAND

I had a wonderful time at Disneyland today.  Got there at around 9 and met the Fawcetts at Space Mountain.  We walked back and forth, back and forth, enjoying each other's company.  When the Fawcetts left me I met a family waiting to go on the Thunder Mountain Railroad.  They consisted of a mom, two daughters, and their Aunt.  They were so nice from Washington.  They even included me in their group.  I like moments like these.

Here are all the cool pictures:

So the girls, Aryn and Kathrine dared me and Thomas to pretend propose to all of the Princesses in the Princess House.  I had to be the instigator, and it was pretty difficult fake proposing, but it was quite funny when both of us got down on one knee and made fools of ourselves.  We only had the guts to do it to one of the three princesses, Cinderella.  And it was funny because she covered her mouth and said what are you doing?  Then she said she had two available step sisters to marry and date.

I had such a great time with the Fawcetts.  It was truly a great time.  They paid for my food and ice cream (even when I said I got it).  We got some good pictures with mickey that will last forever.  I got to grow closer to Kathrine, while we barreled our way through the park to the rides.  Laughing with her when she got lost after I told her we were walking the wrong way around Splash Mountain.  Trailblazing from 1996 and 1989.

Aryn lost her Park Ticket in between Thunder Mountain Railroad and Haunted Mansion.  At the moment it wasn't that funny, but now it is.

I got to sit with Aryn on Space Mountain and Mr. Toad's Wild Ride and we got closer together as well.  FUN TIMES!

Letter #20

JACOB!!!

I love you!  Be safe in your trips to different states tomorrow.  Remember, I want to hear all the details of companionships and mission presidents and mission home, and first restaurant you go to in Pittsburgh, what your first area is, and every little thing.

I won't be there when you call tomorrow because I'm going to be in Disneyland.  I think that's a good enough reason.  I want you to know that I wish I could be there.

I heard this quote today by Elder Holland: Salvation is NOT a cheap experience.  I'm sure you've heard it, if not the talk is in the March 2001 Ensign.  Elder Holland is talking to the missionaries about why things are so hard.  But it is okay if they are hard, because their investigators and less active members are making HUGE commitments to the Gospel.

Like I've said in previous letters: Relish your new experiences.  MTC is over, the Field is White Already to Harvest.  YOLO!

Love you,

John

6/25 Announcements and busy Sunday, as always

Today was good.  It began with me checking in at around 7:45am with my radio...oh, I forgot, I left my new radio in the car.  Brother Harris and I swapped radios this morning because he had to reprogram it because he accidentally programmed my last one a little off because he was given the wrong information.  I got to church at 9:30, knocked on the bishop's door and they let me in because they were in counsel with a member of the ward.  Everything worked out.  By Choir time, only me, Madeline Bird and Bradford and Celeste were there to sing.  We were joined later by some, but not a lot.  I told Brother Harris about Sarah Rebecca and he was super excited for me, telling me that he had a lot of long distance relationships that helped him be the person he is today.  I really trust the Harris'.  I also told Sis. Harris too.  I told Amanda Ahlmann as well.  And I told Breeana Frisina.  All good friends to me.  Oh, and Tyler Frederick on our ride to the Fireside in Riverside.  And I just got finished telling Chris Chandroo as well.  We're going to play tennis with Bethanie Stott sometimes this week in the morning.

I learned a lot, but I'm not going to talk about that because I need to go to sleep soon, because tomorrow is Disneyland day for me with Aunt Kristen and family.

Brother Tolley really did a good job at tonight's 22 stake fireside.

Sister Harris was nice enough to emotionally tell me that she appreciates all the service I do in the ward.  She mentioned taking time on a Saturday morning going to clean the building.

Sarah Rebecca is so awesome.  I just love her and her personality.  I need to tell her that.  She's home now after an eventful weekend in Boise.  I'm glad she's my girlfriend.

Last Letter #19 to the MTC

Jacob!

You're amazing!  Thanks for your awesome letter, the one to mom was perfect in describing the Detail that I have been craving.  So, I'm going to Disneyland on Monday, so I won't be home.  Mom doesn't think you are going to talk long anyway.  I'm sorry that I'll miss talking to you one last time before Christmas.  But I know you are doing amazing things...don't forget that.

So, BREAKING NEWS, I now have a long distance girlfriend!  I've never been in a long distance relationship, so we'll see how I handle it.  Her name is Sarah Rebecca Trefflich.  She's from Provo at this moment in time.  I've already invited her to be my plus 1 at Brittney Maynard's wedding.  I really do like her.  She's extremely smart, funny, enjoyable to talk to, open about weaknesses and strengths.  Exactly what I'm looking for in a woman I want to marry.  She has continued to help me in all my shortcomings and gets down to the bottom of things.  I'm looking forward to this relationship and hope all works out.  Prayers my way would be great.

So, yes...blessings of having a brother on a mission.  They are numerous.

Enjoy your last Sunday in the MTC.  Thank you for sharing your amazing testimony with everyone in the family.  I really needed to hear it.

I hope you know that I too have a testimony of this gospel.  It grows each day that I am alive and see the wonders of this world.  And also the wonder of God's presence in my life.  I really do feel like OUR family is and will be blessed by your service in countless ways.  I'm grateful to have a brother that is now my example of a stalwart person.

Anyways, BTW, sarah probably already told you, but I discovered that Imagine Dragon's new album came out two days ago.  It's pretty great.  You'll have a lot to look forward to when you get home.  8 new songs.

Well, have a happy sabbath!

Love,

John

June 24 Letters from Jacob and 6 pictures

Mom!!

OH MY GOODNESS, so much has happened in this past week. Like, I don't even know where to start. The week went by pretty dang quickly, but each day felt like an eternity. I guess that's what happens when you're in your last week at the MTC. I hope everything is going okay at home, and that nothing absolutely CRAZY has happened. 

First, I'm going to start off with the craziest news of the week. As you know, every Sunday we have someone speak at MTC devotional. Every once in a while, an apostle will speak, or so I hear. I was kinda hoping an apostle would be speaking, but no such luck. We got someone even BETTER (not really, but that's what I keep telling myself.) THE SPEAKER WAS DONNY OSMOND. I was like hardcore fangirling over him, because I know how much you loved him when you were little. He was really charming and entertaining, and it was nice to have a little break from the continuous spiritual mode I seem to be in these days. Towards the end of his talk, he even SUNG US A SONG. It was about his son, and how he'll always be there for him. So yeah. I basically went to a free Donny Osmond concert at the MTC. No biggie. 

Remember how Elder Hopkins and I were kinda sorta in the MTC choir last week, but totally failed and didn't perform?? Well, we ACTUALLY sung with the choir in devotional this past Tuesday. We sung Jesus, Once of Humble Birth. I had no idea what the heck I was doing, but we sounded pretty dang good, so I guess I can't complain. It was definitely a cool experience. They're singing Praise to the Man next week for the anniversary of Joseph Smith's martyrdom, and I'm kinda bummed I'm not gonna be here for that. Oh well. It was fun while it lasted.

Me and my companion had a little bit of an adventure on Wednesday. Elder Hopkins was going hard while playing basketball, and accidentally hurt his ankle. it was fine for the rest of the day, but the next morning, it was bothering the crap out of him. So we decided to take him to the Health Clinic. They then proceeded to tell him that he needed to go to the BYU Health Center to get some X-Rays. Of course, I had to go with him. MOM. I actually got to leave the MTC. IT WAS GLORIOUS. I forgot what freedom felt like. Even though it was just across the street, it was sorta weird being at the Health Center. Last time I was there, I was getting a physical to go on a mission, and now look at me. It was literally a block away from Heritage. I could've walked back to my old apartment. Of course I didn't!! But it was cool. I love the MTC, but I can hardly wait to go out into the mission field and not be contained withing a quarter mile radius.

I can't believe Braden is going to Boise Idaho!! That's so awesome!! He emailed me the morning he got it, and that was really special to read it and find out where he's going. It just feels right somehow, sorta like how Pittsburgh felt right for me. He's emailed me a couple of times since then, and he seems STOKED. I love that dude.

This past Wednesday, our district got a chance to host some of the new missionaries entering the MTC. It's weird. I just got here, less than three weeks ago, and they want me to show some newbie around?? I think I did a pretty good job. None of them seemed to be all that nervous at all. None of them cried while saying goodbye to their families. I guess i'm just more in touch with my emotional side than most guys?? Tell me something I don't know.

We watched a video last Sunday wherein Elder Bednar gave a talk about the Character of Christ. The primary message of the talk is that Christ ALWAYS turned outward, and never once cared about his own personal well being. Even when he had just been betrayed by Judas, and had just started feeling the affects of the Atonement, he healed the man's ear, despite the fact that they were about to arrest him. Now THAT is the kind of person I want to be. Ever since i've been here at the MTC, my testimony of Jesus Christ has grown immensely. I know that he loves each and every one of us, and that through him, we can return to live with our Heavenly Father again. It's such a simple truth, but it has never held more weight to me than it does now. I want to bring others that same knowledge. 

We also went to In-Field Orientation a few days ago, where they teach us a lot of the stuff that we haven't already learned i.e. Finding investigators, Member referrals, Daily planning, Working with the Ward Mission Leader, etc. It was very educational, but SO LONG. It went all the way from 7am to like 5:30pm, with only a lunch break. It's so weird to think that this time, next week, I'll be doing all those things. I'm scared, but ready for the challenge. 

This past week has been bittersweet. Like I just said, I'm excited to go, but at the same time, I'm gonna miss my district and teachers. I've gotten really close to them. Nobody in my district is going to Pittsburgh except Elder Hopkins. Fortunately, 4 of them go to BYU, so I'll be able to see them again when I get back. I'm already beginning to see how His work can bring so many diverse people together, and create lifelong friends. It's weird to say that after just 3 weeks, but it's true. 

So, you mentioned that you wanted to know more details about my itinerary and trip and stuff like that. I'll try to tell you everything I know, but I don't know too much. Elder Hopkins and I have to report to the Travel Office here at the MTC at 3:30 AM. We will then be taken to the airport in SLC. Our flight from SLC to Detroit, Michigan leaves at 7:25 am. We are scheduled to arrive in Michigan at 12:52 PM local time. We ARE allowed to call our parents to let them know we've arrived okay. I bought a calling card for that purpose. So be by the phone at around 10 AM California time if you want to hear from me. If you don't want to talk to me, I'd totally understand. Just shoot me a quick email and let me know. Anyways, our flight from Michigan to Pittsburgh leaves at 2:15 PM local time, so about an hour after we touch down. So if we do talk, I won't have that long. We are scheduled to arrive in Pittsburgh at 3:24 PM local time, where President Johnson will be to pick us up. President Bednar is set to arrive and relieve President Johnson from his duties three days later, on the 29th. So that'll be interesting.There's gonna be 12 of us traveling to Pittsburgh together. I only know 8 of us.  I hope I gave you all of the necessary information that you wanted. That's literally all I know. Maybe I'll talk to you soon?

That's basically all of the news I have for now!! I received your package in the mail a couple of days ago!! Thanks so much!! It was like a little blast from home!! The Grandma Palmer's cookies and Panda Inn fortune cookies were a nice touch haha. I don't know how much you want to send me another package. I don't want to get greedy. But I left my black and red Adidas running shoes at home, and apparently I sorta need them. But if you can't, it's no big deal. I can just buy some cheap ones. But if you do wanna send them to me, they're probably in a box under Bana' s bed. Or in John's closet. But like I said, if you can't, no big deal. I'll love you either way. You have no idea how happy and surprised I was to receive a package the other day. You're the best.

Next time I write you, I'll be in Steeler's country!! Can't wait to tell you about all of my adventures. Love you!!

Elder Gonzales

Hey John!!

I have so little time today!! I've got lots of stuff to do before I exit the MTC, and unfortunately, that includes cutting into my email time. 

Just a few things:

- The temple has been great!! You instilled in me a love for the temple that I didn't have as much before. I've done endowment sessions each of the last two weeks, and initiatories today. I loved every second of it. I've grown to love the Provo temple, despite the fact that it looks like a birthday cake. 

- I love your new ukulele!! I knew it HAD to be a tenor, because it looks a lot bigger than mine. How does it sound? How are the strings? I'm glad that you're learning to play it, and that you're enjoying it so much. Sometimes I miss my uke. You'll be better than me by the time I get back!!

- Send me a picture of this Sarah girl. She sounds cool. Also, thanks for all of the watercolor pictures. It's nice to see some of my old work.

Love you!! Thanks again for all of the letters.

Elder Gonzales

Hey Everyone!!

If you couldn't tell by the super dramatic subject line, I have three more days until I'm in Pittsburgh!! The MTC has been great, but I'm READY to start teaching some REAL investigators. Thanks so much for your support and emails!! You have no idea how much I appreciate them.

1) Elder Hopkins and I get a little bit too much into our food.

2) My entire district, with our teacher Sister Alldredge. Man, I'm gonna miss these guys so much.

3) Another district picture, this time in front of the Provo Temple. Nothing like  waking up at 5:30 in the morning and going to serve the Lord.

4) The last investigator we taught here in the MTC, Matthew. One more lesson, and we could have committed him to baptism. Okay. Probably not. But it's fun to think about.

6/24 Girlfriend and new Imagine Dragons album

I helped clean the church early this morning at 8am.  I had window duty, which I usually end up doing with Greg Obi, but he didn't show up this morning.  Brother Harris was in charge instead of Brother O'Neill, because I think he's out of town.  Brandon Leslie, Ryan Hiatt and Josh Quinlan showed up to help.  I had a glazed and raspberry jelly filled donut.

So, I HAVE A GIRLFRIEND!!!!!!!!!!  Long distance, but we can make it work, I believe in us.  Sarah Rebecca Trefflich and I have decided to begin being boyfriend and girlfriend.  She's in Idaho right now.  She went to a wedding reception for her friend that was in the country.  I helped navigate her back to her friend's house and we talked for nearly and hour and a half about weaknesses and hard things that have happened in our past that have brought us to where we are now.  We both have been prepared for this moment.  She's great!  I like her so much, and I haven't ever met her before.  How can that be.  It's great to be liked and appreciated by someone again.  She's amazing!  She's funny, smart, witty, loving, and in tune with herself and her emotions.  You don't get those traits in all the girls you date.  Someone that gets down to the nitty-gritty.  She is quick and to the point and asks us certain questions.  We shall see how things end up.  I think we shall go far.

Other than that, it's been a laid back day.  I slept in til twelve.  Then we went out to eat at an Italian Restaurant with the beginning "Bella......" I can't remember the end of the title.  It's by Denny's, where brother and Sister Harris and I went to eat last week.  The service was really good and nice.  They were funny and endearing.  However, I don't think we'll go back there again.  The food was just too bland for both my parents.  The booths were also really small for four people, so we moved to open tables.

It's been a good day.  I talked with Sarah Rebecca three times, and I also called Sarah to talk about the new Imagine Dragons album that came out.  In fact, when I saw there was a new album, I downloaded it to my ex-phone on Spotify and listened to it on my way home from cleaning the church.  Good music!

I also listened to it on my way to get gas for my car for Sunday.  I noticed as I pass the nature center on a scenic route home that they were watching a movie that was being projected.  I don't know what movie was being projected though.

MTC letter #18

Well, Jacob, time in the MTC is coming to a close for you.  I forgot to make your last DearElder.com letter a really great and special one.  Know that I want the best for you in all you do, which is why I take the time out of my night to right you everyday.  And even though I might not write you everyday when you are out on your mission, I want you to know that you are in the forefront of my mind.  Always.  And if it was feasible, I might write you everyday.  But I don't want to be a distraction to the work you are doing, so I'll probably keep it to a weekly thing.

Anyways, I love you, and that is all that matters.  I'm here for you bud!

I can't wait to hear more from you.  I wish you had more time and ideas to write because I want to hear every last detail, every last one.

I'm doing good.  I have matters to put to prayer that I really need help with.  Like, and especially, going to college and not fearing the outcome of applying to grad school.  Sarah Rebecca and I are still talking and I guess we're going on phone dates, since she lives in Provo at the moment.  But she is pretty amazing.  She can take any fear I have, and help me turn it into something I have confidence about.  She actually does mentoring for a living, so I get the free help because she likes me and talking to me.

I finished 3rd and 4th Nephi today.  I learned that if we don't watch ourselves and give thanks to god for what we have, our testimonies can falter and pride will ensue.  We don't want that.  So we must watch our thoughts words and deeds (Mosiah 4:30) all the time.

The Peruvians are living in a different place now.  I think that is new to you.  They have split up.  The Zegarra family lives in apts right by their old.  It's nice and spacious.  They will need furniture.  Wiwa's family live on Arrow, by the library.  It's a gated community.

Well, have a good P-day tomorrow.  I won't DearElder this since you probably won't get it.

I love you to death.

John

6/23 Learned Helplessness and the Zegarra's new apt

I went to the gym and then I talked to Sarah Rebecca for three hours, during her trip to Boise.  What did we talk about for so long?  Everything under the sun.  Really, she shared what she does for a living, what she really is doing and wants to do.  She runs a company called Divinity Incorporated.  In it she inspires people to be their best selves.  In other words, every time I talk to her on the phone, I am inspired to be my best self, because that is what she does and it's really endearing.  She did so today when she counseled me on what my next steps in life should be as far as going back to school and pursuing my dream, which on a scale of 1 to 10, it should be a 10.  I wrote her advice down on an index card and I plan on doing what I wrote down in the following days, which include but is not limited to: doing research about different schools in CA, AZ, and UT, finding out costs, talking to an entrance counselor about my concerns (especially about my ending college GPA and GRE scores), and perhaps shadowing a speech pathologist to get a feel of what they do and perhaps get some experience.  She listened to my fears.  One of them was of not being accepted into different colleges.  She taught me about Learned Helplessness (which is something that she enumerates on her website), where, if I understand correctly, it is the fact that if you fail once, you are so use to failing that you give up and you don't try harder the next time, which of course sounds like exactly the state I am in when it comes to applying for colleges and being afraid of the entrance essay.  She did her thesis on that exact subject as well.  Sarah Rebecca is so cool. She teaches me something everyday I talk to her.

It's late because after dinner (which I intruded on) we went to the Zegarra's new apartment, and stayed til nearly 12:30am.  They are doing good.  Their new apartment is nice.  A little barren, but that's okay, it's new.  I noticed cockroaches.  I wonder if they brought them there with them, or if they just came with the house.  We talked about Lucy not passing her drivers test for the second time.  We also searched for a video of Dad and Briana dancing at their wedding reception.  We found the video of Briana and Tony's first dance too.  I helped them look for other things on their computer as well.  We also shared that funny stinky fish challenge video.

We went to La Bufa to eat.  I got Chile Verde.  It was really good.

I watched part of BYU Media Day with mom.  Or at least the BYU Sports Nation 2-hour part of it.  It's been a good day.

DearElder.com letter #17

So Elder,

How's it going?  Good I hope.

BTW, I got Spotify Premium like the day after you left, and I'm loving every second of it.  I can download whole albums of music onto my Note 4, and not use any data, which is good, because for some reason, while I was at the temple, an app decided to take like a whole gig of data without asking, so I'm scrounging, sorta.  I do love Spotify Premium though.

I ate with the Elders from my ward tonight.  It was awesome.  I do love missionaries because they are always so optimistic.  They gave me an assignment: read Alma 13 looking for references to the Atonement of Jesus Christ.  So while I do that, I'll give you the same assignment.  It'll go along with my challenge to you to know the Book of Mormon like the back of your hand so you can answer any gospel questions that come your way.

I also read my favorite talk from conference today again.  It is called, "Becoming a Disciple of Our Lord Jesus Christ" by Elder Robert D. Hales.  It's a great talk, especially if you want to work on developing Christlike attributes.  Read it, if you have time, and tell me what you think.

I'm slowly but surely getting use to playing a Ukulele.  I actually love it.  A different sound and system of chords, but it is great.

So now it is just me going to Disneyland with the Fawcetts on Monday.  I'm looking forward to it.  Mom's excuse is the heat.

I held myself today playing ping pong against a girl named Becky.  It was fun.

Well, I love you!  You'll be great and are great!

Keep up the good work.

John

6/22 Ping Pong with ms. Shutt, and dinner with the Elders

It's been a nice fulfilling day.

I got up a little before 9am, which is the time I set my alarm for.  I did my scripture study.  Called Aunt Kristen to see what day their family is going to Disneyland and to tell them mom doesn't want to come and that I'm only going to one park with them.  They are going on Monday to Disneyland, so I'm going to buy my ticket at the ticket booth when I get there.  The park opens at 8am, so I'll try to be there by then.  It means getting up at like 6 to get ready and an hour to get there.

I went to the gym today.  However, when I got there, I looked in my little gym backpack for my ear buds, but I couldn't find them.  That dampened my desire to run, plus, I've come to enjoy watching TV as I run on the treadmill.  So I only ran .5 mile.  I didn't take too long at the gym, just doing my favorite stuff, like weighted pull-ups, and torso twisting to weights, along with some arm machines.  After I was done with that, I went to the front desk and said, "I know you probably get this a lot, but has anyone turned in white earbuds, where one is bigger than the other?"  It only took the girl like 5 seconds to look and there they were, still wrapped up.  I'm guessing they fell out when I was leaving on Tuesday.  Thank goodness for honest people.

I just came home and rested, watching Arrow, The Middle, and actually resting on the couch.  Mom made something in the crock pot, but dad was too hungry, so he had me run to Nogales Burgers to go pick up a club sandwich and fries.  The sandwich was divided into four, so we all got one piece and dad got two and we shared the fries.

I ate with the missionaries tonight at 5:30pm.  I originally told them to go to the Wendy's on Day Creek.  But then I had a revelation to take them to Señor Baja, a restaurant across to the In-n-out by Walmart. Me and Elder Hatch ate a carne asada burrito and Elder Kleinman got 3 tacos. It was really enjoyable talking to them. Elder Kleinman has really won my heart, he's a really nice guy. They asked about stories from my mission, so I obliged them. They then gave me an assignment to read Alma 13, looking for references to the Atonement of Jesus Christ. So I plan on doing that tomorrow along with my other studies.


Institute was okay. I got there just in time. Tyler insists on talking to me a lot, so it is hard to get stuff out of the lesson. We talked about death and helping console members and nonmembers when someone passes away.

Becky Shutt challenged me to a ping pong match tonight. I beat her the last time we played. First we played with Ice Cream Cones. Then we played to more games. I won all three. But it is nice to play with someone that enjoys playing with me. She's a cool girl. I'm happy for her and Kyle Nielson. Becky is really spiritual. She served a mission and I guess she was killing it because Bishop Weston Taylor was always talking her up. Also, Sister O'Neill recommended her to me but I turned down that recommendation at the time. Like I said, she's really cool to be around.

Tia Anila and Melaney are raising money for girls camp, so Mosiah called me for his mom to offer Causa, a piece for $3 and Alfajores, 6 for $5. I told dad and he purchased $14 worth of both for him, mom and me. On my way home from Institute, I picked it up from their apartment. They were extremely delicious.

I hardly talked to Sarah Rebecca Trefflich today and I'm going through withdrawals a bit.

Yesterday, this video uploaded.  The picture is a sister that served her mission in Rancho Cucamonga.  I screenshot-ted it and sent it to her.  Her name is Latricia Pinto, or Sister Pinto.  I really liked her as a missionary.  So she shared the video on her Facebook.

DearElder.com letter #16

Hi man!

I was told that Braden personally emailed you about his mission call.  I also heard that he did it before he even let anyone know on Facebook.  That should make you feel special.  He comes from good stock, and is a good friend to you.

So, I don't know if I told you, but, the Fawcetts are going to Disneyland and California Adventure next week and mom and I decided to tag along.  However, mom decided to forgo disneyland because of the heat.  Plus, we had decided to skip out on California Adventure as well (even though it has the Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout ride).  I know I'll experience it some day.  So it'll just be me and the Fawcetts either Monday or Tuesday.  I'm looking forward to it.  Although, this means no hotel, unfortunately.

I noticed a message from Elder Oaks on facebook today.  He mentioned in a video how Ballard and Nelson's talk emphasized the document: The Living Christ.  He challenged each one of us to read it and memorize it's words.  The rest of the video was snippets of his family reciting the document.  I'm going to challenge myself to memorize it and I suggest you do so as well, or at least understand it like the back of your hand.  I also have to memorize my patriarchal blessing.

I applied for a Librarian job at Wilson Elementary today.  I need prayers sent my way and hopefully soon I can give you good news.  Wilson is the elementary school right next to the old DI.  I've actually been in that library.

I'm still talking to that girl named Sarah Trefflich.  She is really awesome and interesting and we have a lot of the same interests.  It'll be cool to finally meet her in the future.  She teaches me lots of things, like the meaning of the three parables: of great price, of the field, and of the lost coin.

Well, I hope all is well in MTC-town.  Follow the spirit, always!

John

6/21 Summer Solstice and sleeping in

Figures, the day that I sleep in and accidentally turn down my cell phone without vibrations would be the day that Mosiah actually contacts me about going to the gym.  No, I did not go to the gym and I apologized to Mosiah for being dumb, haha.

I didn't do much today.  Took a shower and helped mom by peeling the potatoes.  When I was done with that I talked to my Sarah.  We talked more than once today.  She wanted to know if we could meet sooner than in a month, and how we would treat each other those times that we meet.  I was a bit hesitant, knowing I would see her in a month, and knowing that it would be hard telling mom that we want to meet.  I did tell her that I would see what I could do and proposed seeing each other the week of the Fourth of July in Hurricane, or St. George.  She liked the idea, told me that she would have to see because her dad may come up that week, but that we should definitely try it.

I talked with Mom tonight while dad was gone.  We discussed many things, one of which was who Sarah Trefflich is and if there are any red flags.  She told me that in her Facebook scan of her, she noticed that it took her 10 years to get a degree.  Could be a red flag.  Another one is if she's going to do something else for work besides work at a call center.  That concerned her.  What is she doing with her degree in Psychology.  So, just a few concerns.

We also talked about Mom and her relationship with Dad, while dad was gone.

Mom decided that she's not going to go with me and the Fawcetts to Disneyland.  Bummer.  Her biggest reason was about how hot it's going to be.  Not to mention, today is the beginning of Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year, and up there in heat.

Mom made good scalloped potatoes, Dad made great seasoned chicken, and I helped peel the potatoes, haha.

DearElder.com letter #15

Jacob!!!!

Before I write anything else, let me tell you: Braden got his Mission call and is going to open it tomorrow (Wednesday) in front of his family.  I'll let you know as soon as I know where he is going and what language he is speaking.  I made a funny comment on his post that "His Brother went to Pennsylvania and I went to Iowa, so, since you are going to Pennsylvania, then he will be called to Iowa.  It is only fitting."

So yes, I got my Ukulele today after much thought and searching.  I bought it from Sam Ash (they had a wider selection than Guitar Center).  It's a Cordoba cutaway Tenor Ukulele that has electronic capabilities.  I really like it and have learned my fingering and have tried some hymns and children songs.   Plus, I know La Vie En Rose, although I need to get the chords in the right order.  I'm extremely excited to verse myself in the realm of Ukulele players and music.

I am doing my best to get prepared for a Sealing temple trip that is happening at the beginning of next month.  I have started doing some research, and found 8 names yesterday.  I love the temple.  I am curious to hear how your temple trips have gone.  Do you like the Provo Temple?  It wasn't my favorite, but I did do most of my long list of endowments in that temple.  Not to mention, the two months that I worked there.  Dad's going to send you a great talk given by Gerard Causse about the importance of Temples in missionary work.  It's like the end pieces of the puzzle, learning and baptism being the beginning pieces.

So, I would love sending a letter to you everyday of your mission.  However, I know how distracting that could be.  So after you leave the MTC, I'll probably just stick with a weekly email.  Hopefully, it won't be too devastating to you.  I do love talking to you about what I had just learned in daily scripture study.  IDK, I'll find some clever way to incorporate stuff I've learned in some way.

Well, I hope all is well and that you're playing nice with all your fellow missionaries.  I can't say it enough: RELISH.

Love you man,

John

6/20 New Uke, two calls, and a Hillarious Video

I finally caved and got myself a cutaway concert Ukulele.  I got it from Sam Ash.  It cost a good $200 and I got insurance, but I forgot to ask if they have a ukulele capo, unfortunately.  It's a nice one and I can't wait to use it, in fact, I've already used it and loved it.

I haven't done too much today.  I went to the gym, ran and lifted some weights.  It was okay.  I did my scripture study.  And I waited until 1pm to call Sarah Trefflich.  Although, when I finally did get a hold of her, Mom called me wanting someone to go to the DI with her.  I told Sarah sorry, but she wouldn't have it, so I told mom sorry, but that I was busy.

It was a nice conversation.  She had me take a 5 Love Languages test.  It was actually quite interesting.  It was pretty accurate.  The thing I knew I wasn't going to get too much score on was receiving gifts.  Gifts really don't do it for me.  Which is funny, because Stephanie was a huge gift giver.  I wonder if I gratified her need for gifts.  I wonder if Receiving Gifts is top of Stephanie's list.  Sarah told me she got tens on the first three, which makes me happy.  I guess I love quality time with bae.  If I don't have that I'm unhappy.

Mom and I watched a lot of The Middle today.  She wanted to watch Angels and Demons because she just got done reading that to herself, but I guess she wasn't impressed because after 17 minutes, she had fallen asleep.  Then we turned on America's Got Talent.  There was this cool magic trick that someone did and it is unfathomable about how he did it.  I'm going to put the link here, plus a little Asian girl named Celine who sang a Celine Dion Song beautifully.

I texted Sarah that I gave Mom full reign of my facebook to stalk her.  She called a little bit afterwards and wanted to know the details.  I didn't really have many details, but I gave her all I could.  I asked her about sports.  She told me she didn't really do many team sports growing up.  But she learned how to swim and has perfect form.  She has done half marathons, 5Ks and 10Ks.  She's even done Triathlons.  She's Wonder Woman, it seems.  She said she did play flag football growing up and can appreciate watching football if there is someone there to tell her what she has questions about.  She said she knows the guy that is in Meet the Mormons, the one that plays offensive lineman, who's mom remarried. Then she had to turn in for the night.

Mom then sent me a video on facebook and then watched me for the reaction.  It is really quite gagging hilarious.  She was crying laughing, and so was I (without the crying).  We had to show dad as well.

Dad made his signature strawberry milk.  Except he added a syrup that made it taste like either rotten, or bananas, no good.

Mom has started indexing again.  That makes me glad, because I love indexing.  I know she has commented to me how hard it has been because the records were handwritten, in Spanish.  She challenges herself, something I don't know if I could do, the Spanish I mean.

Dad had a High Priest Group Leader meeting that lasted a long time, like 2 or 3ish hours.

At Sam Ash, I also bought 2 hooks to hang my guitar and new Ukulele; dad is going to help me hang it up.  I guy named Nico helped me out.  My Uke is Cordoba, like Jacob's.

Dad got a nice father's day card from Tony and Briana.  I should've done something but I didn't.