Heya,

Things are going really well. Things go great. We get pretty busy with administrational things, meetings, interviews and what not. So we are busier than a normal companionship. Elder Trammell and I get a long really well. We both served with Elder Yukish and didn't get along with him either, so we have a few things in common haha. We do get to work in our area a good amount though, sometimes it's hard because we are covering a ward and a branch so we aren't out tracting or finding as much but that's okay. I'm having fun and a really good experience learning how to minister to everyone around me. As far as Christmas goes, I may not be able to call until after one. I'm not exactly sure on specifics yet. I may just have to call Saturday night to set it up and get things organized with you.. is it 6163079? I Can't ever remember it. We will be done with church at Ten our time. We really haven't had too much time to think about it yet so we are still trying to find out what will be going on. I will let you know some way though. I'm going to guess it will be around 1 your time.

I have only ate at one sushi place since I have been In ohio. and it wasn't an all you can eat :/ That was a year ago and I haven't found any other good places either. So I'm out of luck. None of my companions really like sushi rolls either. oh well. Am I really going to get my package on time this year? hmmm... W set up our little four foot tree last night and hung our stockings and some Christmas lights. we are all decked out.

I'm glad *** is still out and doing well. I'm pretty surprised about that, But Stetson Argyle.. If you remember him, he is out here and doing well too. I remember that *** Girl.. I spoke the same sunday as her right after I graduated. She isn't too much older than me. I do remember she was a good looking girl. Who knows right? haha

I hope that I have a good Christmas dinner, Like I have said before, That is the one thing that I miss the most, your good old homecookin'! I don't really know what it is but people out here just don't cook as good as people in Utah... I'm looking forward to that too because I have been eating not as gourmet as I use to back at home :P

This last week at the Temple was really cool. I was able to stay awake this year and have a good time. at the end of the first session we went to the corner chior booths to bear our testimonies and to sing the spirit of God. It was really powerful. As we were singing too the sun came out and started to shine through the windows and you could see the light Rays coming through. It was super neat to see it happen, It was like Angels were coming in.. In the afternoon we talked a little about reading the Book Of Mormon within the First 90 days of the year (I'm going to have to finish it first before I start that, I have to read about 12 pages a day to be done by the first). After that we watched the movie 17 Miracles. That is a really good movie! holy cow. I like it. I was able to gain an even Greater appreciation for the early saints for all that they did and went through. It made me think about our ancestors. Did they come accross the plaines? I have no Idea. I mean I know dad's were there since Lehi... but as far as the white side of our family. :P

I have lost about 20 pounds now... I weighed myself the other day when I was on exchanges in Wadsworth (which was cool, I got to see a few of the families I got close to), So if the scale there is right then I have lost realy close to 20 lbs and I'm down to like 165... That means my winter coat is really really really big on me. So if you could put some money of my Card so I can get a fresh, Good-looking coat that would be cool. or you could just send me one (but you gotta make sure it looks stylish :P) Either way.. I can't believe I'm down that much. That's pretty crazy. I will have to put my muscle back on. I'm focusing on turning my fat to muscle now... we'll see how that goes.

That's about it.

Love ya fellas'

--
Elder Michael Stone.

Hey Mom.

I am back in the Akron area, in the Tallmadge ward. I was called to be a Zone Leader here with Elder Trammell. It has been good so far. Furtney is still in Warren. Poor guy. haha oh well. I will give you my address, but I will only be at it until the end of the month because we are getting a new apartment at the start of January some time. I'm thinking the first week. We are Getting a nicer and newer apartment where we will be living with some of the other missionaries in our zone that we share the ward with. I guess they like the Zl's to live with others. It will be fun. They are new missionaries too so we will be able to help them out here and there. But, my new address for now is:

2275 eastwood ave #21-B

Akron, OH 44305

Do you have a computer to skype on? Jenn and Adam wont have left yet right?

Anyways. Now, that I am back in Akron, I have served in three wards side-by-side-by-side. all really close to each other. I was hoping to go to Cleveland or Kirtland because those are the only two zone's that I haven't been in. Maybe I will get there one of these days. But, I really don't have that much time left for more areas. We also get to cover the singles branch here. that's a lot of fun, It's a lot easier to talk to them because they are the same age and all. Plus they are more relaxed and do more activites. So, I'm excited to be able to work with them and hey, they are better at missionary work than other people! Right now we are teaching a girl that is Agnostic. The first one that I have ever taught. It's an interesting experience and takes a lot of patience. We got her to come to church for the first time yesterday and we spoke too a lot about the birth of Jesus Christ and what it means, or should mean to us and everyone else in the world. It was cool.

Scout's that old? I thought he was only 13... ha geez.

For my Christmas package, I would like less candy, I mean still the good stuff, but just not so much. I mean I don't want to get fat! haha. I got my shoes this week and hopefully I will be able to get my pants this week.

We are going up to Kirtland tomorrow for a conference where the first part of it is in the Temple, Kind of like what we did last year. We will be able to bear our testimonies in there in the choir seats and be able to be more edified. It's really quite neat. This will probably be my last time in the Temple before we come back in later years if we decide to. It's a really special place. You should definitely encourage Jenn and Adam to go. I'm going to.

Not much else going on here though. Things are well and I'm just trying to learn more of my new Role and responsibilites.

Much Love. and I have no clue what is going on for Christmas yet. Hopefully I will know more next week! haha

Oh I see, hmm well That's cool. I didn't know that dad got a macbook. You guys are getting more technologically fit! you will be legit for sure once you get the system and faceplate set up in the house with the speakers and the security system too. haha It's a long drive from Utah to here. It's 24 hours or somthing like that of driving time without traffic.

Elder Trammell is a Zone Leader too. Dls are the only one that is alone. He came out the transfer after me and is from Chubbick (outside of pocatella ID). He is a really good missionary and has been a ZL for a while. It's funny too because he trained Furtney right before I got there, So I just kind of followed him here.

My shirts are good. for some reason though With my long sleeves and Crew-neck garment you can see the top of my Garment out of the top of my shirt. Like the neck is almost too big. So I Know I ask for more underwear all the time, but a few Round neck ones would be nice. Otherwise I can deal with it

-
Elder Michael Stone.

Hey mom,

The week was decent, we dropped our only investigator yesterday. But, on the bright side, I am leaving Warren. Only six weeks. It was pretty quick. I knew that I had the same chance of leaving as elder furtney but I really had no idea at all. I hope I go somewhere good. haha Hopefully somewhere that the ward is more active in all categories.

I did get that package this week. thank you. I like the Tie and man that is a lot of candy. I don't know if I will eat all of it. haha I have cut back on my sugars. I'm sure I will get my shoes at transfer meeting tomorrow. I'm kind of surprised that they are willing to replace my pants for me and hem them even though it wasn't from wear and tear. Just getting bit by a dog. That's pretty sweet. I'm thinking I will end up In Cleveland or Kirtland zones because I haven't been there yet. but who knows? I could go all the way back across the state again...


It's not really President Sorensen's rule that they can't come eat lunch with us. It's in the Handbook, so it's by the Brotheren. So, It's a commandment I need to live. It's really not that big of a deal either. no sweat. we have e-mail and skype, (be glad we have that!) plus I really don't have that much longer left. They need to go to Kirtland on their way through though. It will be worth it.

I have really been focusing on my prayers lately, really trying to commune with God like we should. It's been a neat experience focusing on my body language, word usage and patience in speaking and listening. I have had a few experiences this last week at nights before I would get into bed when I would be pleading for people to teach and for things to get easier (If I stayed I planned to tract 40 hours a week, Most area's here get maybe 1 a week) and It was some of the most powerful experiences of my life I feel like I have been able to grow closer to my Heavenly Father more than ever before, aligning my will with his and living the life he has planned out for me since the beginning.

I love growth, I love knowledge and wisdom. We've been handing out copies of the Book of Mormon like crazy. It's an amazing feeling.

Nothing else to say. Other than we did make another trip up to kirtland. That was good.

Love ya guys!

--
Elder Michael Stone.

Hey there,

The week was pretty fulfilling. My stuffing was, in my opinion, better than the other two that we had. According to Elder Furtney it was only better than one of them. eh, more for me ha ha. I hope they are good looking shoes that they send, because it's the better looking of the two that I have that is falling apart, and guess what? I got bit by a freaking dog tracting the other day so now I have some ripped pants, will they replace that too? I sewed it back up so you can't see through it but it made me mad. If they will replace them, it's the blue pinstripe suit pants, but I need them two inches longer because they were short when I first got them ( I got them Let out in st. Mary's).

Thanksgiving was interesting. The people in this ward are so different, I mean It's almost awkward to be around them. So for most of the day we just kind of sat around. The morning was good though, we had a Turkey bowl and I totally dominated! It has been a really long time since I have been able to play a competitive game of football. I thoroughly enjoyed it. we'll have to get a turkey bowl set up for next year! ha ha yes.

Don't plan on me giving a good homecoming talk. I'm going to keep it short and sweet. I will read from the scriptures the Entire time! Just kidding. I'm not even sure. It's still forever away. That's crazy that **** came clean on the day of his farewell. That would have been annoying for his family and those who were going to attend. It is a good thing though that he did decide to repent beforehand. Otherwise that would have made things way more difficult for him while he was on his mission.

Transfers are next week already. That's pretty quick. It's been my fastest transfer yet. Strange. I'm not quite sure what will happen. I would like to leave, Honestly. This ward here is so sad, it's difficult to work with. I mean we don't even Have a ward mission leader. Plus, I would really like to get a companion that I don't have to raise and teach. Bless their hearts, but Sometimes you need someone to drag you over the wall (that I'm at) instead of climbing over it yourself. He's a good guy and all but just doesn't completely get it yet and is still really young in his maturity. If I stay though I'm pretty sure I will only be here for six more weeks. I really don't think that I will be here too long.

The rough thing is, all we do is tract too. We really only have one investigator, who, without his fellowshipper (whom he lives with... We are going to have to work that out here soon) Can't do anything because he's had three strokes and can't drive and then the side effects of all of those things causes communication problems and so forth. It's a bit frustrating, but it's been going well. I have been able to remain up-beat and positive in the work and always looking for things and new people to teach. It's so different because I understand the gospel and the purpose of missionary work so much more. I've changed completely since I first embarked on this sojourn.

It's quiet here. Not too much going on. Just really seeking for greater knowledge and further enlightenment. The gospel is pretty interesting at times. ha, well. I can't really believe that it's already December (basically). It's insane.

I attached some pictures of my pants. If they can't do anything that's fine, I will just make them my tracting pants and I wont wear them to meetings. I did a fairly decent fix on them so I'm not too concerned or bothered by it.

welp, I'm not sure what else to talk about.

Tuesday next week. Be there or be square.

Love ya.

--
Elder Michael Stone.

Hello.

That does not surprise me about Ammon at all! I could have predicted something like that a few years ago... It is a good thing though that it happened now so he can learn what it's like. He is lucky too because isn't there a rule that talks about if you get in a wreck or something with your permit you have to wait Longer after you are 16 to get your license? That's pretty funny though that He freaked out that much... poor guy ;P

Remember in Ether, You don't receive a witness until after the trial of your faith. Trials come in all sorts of ways. Even something like this. Just trust in God totally and completely. I just re-read and listened to a talk from Elder Christofferson from the October 2010 conference that talks about living a consecrated life. My favorite line out of it is this: True success in this life comes in consecrating our lives葉hat is, our time and choices葉o God痴 purposes (see John 17:1, 4; D&C 19:19). In so doing, we permit Him to raise us to our highest destiny.
Choices to act, rebel, doubt, etc. Is not success. God is our Heavenly Father mom, He loves you more that you can even fathom. Things temporal are good, but things spiritual are Amazing. Keep the faith and he will always bless you. Don't forget he is the great "I AM" he is always watching and loving. I'm glad that you were able to have this experience and see that we are blessed even when things go array. I love you mom.

Matthew has gotten really big! I looked at those pictures and wow. Jordyn and Bella too. That's crazy. (Bella is still a little tomboy).

Utah missionaries don't need leftovers... Just in case you feed them, but, Ohio ones do. AI think we have about two lined up for thanksgiving. Our main one is with an older lady that lives with her dad. (when I say Older I think she may only be in her 50's...) but we have the whole day off so we are trying to get in with some other people so we have something to do all day. I think we are going to be able to go over to another members who has kids and we can spend a good chunk of the day with them. we are going to play in their turkey bowl too. It's been a few weeks since I've been able to play football. So I'm pretty excited about that.

I think that ward you are in now may get lifted up like the city of Enoch soon. I mean ten Missionaries and two deacons quorums. Holy Crap! We have had some big wards in the past in the old house. but not like that.

Why three Christmas stockings for next year? babies? I wont be married and I already have one.

I need new shoes. Here are some pictures of the hole I have in them

Things are still different here. I have been having the hardest time discerning the spirit. I feel like I have been living more righteous now then I ever have before so I have been immensely blessed with the spirit but at times I feel it and I don't completely understand what It's trying to tell me or teach me. Then like last night I had the prompting that we had to get out of a neighborhood, so I followed it and Then it kind of diminished to be about a half-way feeling for the next five minutes or so. It's been a bit frustrating that I haven't been able to understand what God wants me to know. I have been doing a lot of praying and studying to figure it out and understand properly. But, yet, not to much avail. It's really starting to bother me too. Work isn't going too well, but we are fulfilling purpose so I'm happy and I'm enjoying work and continuing to do Gods will. It's just the fact that maybe it's more surreal than in has been in the past but I really don't know what it is. I know I'm not just going through the motions. That's foolish. I have been able to grow still. Just not figure out what this feeling is. It's so indescribable. I try not to think about it that much, but it just eeks in. It could possibly be that I'm on the back end of my mission now, I still have tons of time left to live life and to do work. I'm not sure.

Anyways. Don't eat too much stuffing without me this week. we have some stuffing mixes at our apartment and I'm buying some sausage today so I can make some for myself! mmm it's soo good.
That's about it.
Love ya.

--
Elder Michael Stone.

Hey mom,

Ha, well you see, we live where we live and we don't throw a fit... haha I do what I can... It's actually not too cold yet. It's definitely getting there though. That's for sure. Things have been going really well with the ward. I mean, The bishop is totally our man now. We Just have to continue to work with him to teach him his role when it comes to missionary work. They are supportive, They just don't know what they are suppose to do. (and they wonder why there are so many less-actives?) We get fed a lot. Best thing about it too, is they are ones who give leftovers! so we don't have to buy as much! yeah! I mean the ward loves missionaries from what I can tell, They Just don't know how to do missionary work. at all. It's a work in progress and things are going to happen, just for some reason though it's getting pretty much postponed until the holidays are over. It's takes time to build a Ward Mission Process and plan. Also we are going to do a 40 day fast as well. It's just not going to happen until Jan. 1st.

I thought Ammon loved wrestling? He does this every year though. I mean he did really well last year and isn't he suppose to do really well this year too? Besides, what is this crossfit thing? For some reason, I don't know why, but he has always hated to do difficult things. I don't understand. Hard things makes us better and improve ourselves! Heber J. Grant loves this quote, he based his life around it. I have learned to love it as well. It's by Ralph Waldo Emerson, Which Says:
“That which we persist in doing becomes easier for us to do; not that the nature of the thing itself is changed, but that our power to do is increased.”

That's it. If you want to improve, Continually do difficult things.

It's driving too, I mean geez. School isn't that far away and I'm sure he has friends that can drive too. You know as well. If he does end up wrestling and then not doing good he is going to get frustrated and want to quit then too. The reason for him not doing well is because he wants to drive more than wrestle so he will miss practice. (there is always webbs workouts too.;) That boy...

Jordyn has no teeth at all. holy cow.

Ever since I have been here, Things feel so different. It's quite strange. I'm doing work, I'm doing everything that I am suppose to and that I want to. There is just this off and different feeling that I just don't know what it is and why it's here. I mean It's very clear what my purpose is here. To help Elder Furtney learn his purpose and to build member to missionary relations teaching them what their role is when it comes to missionary work. The Latter doesn't surprise me because I've had to do that is all but one of my area's, unfortunately I wish I could go back to Wadsworth and redo it because I didn't do the greatest there. But from Barberton on, that has been one of the number one things that I have had to do. So, I understand my purpose, and my purpose here. I just don't know why it feels so different because everything is going the way that it needs to. I mean boy are we being diligent and obedient. We are doing everything in our bonds to be as righteous as we possibly can. I will figure it out eventually. oh well.

Hmm.. we get to teach a fair amount. Just not too much going on yet.

P.S.

Oh yes. G.C. cd's available yet? also, I would like and appreciate it if you were to send me some thermals. (I'm down to a waist of about 30-29 now..) OR my Wrestling tights that I never got last year... I don't intend on freezing at all this year like last year.

Also, With UVU, were you able to fill out scholarship applications?

ha, I just sent you what I needed really. Maybe on top of that some inspirational talks given by G.A's on cd or just printed out.

I know ammon can't handle stress. he needs to Chill. That's all. He needs to be pushed. Tell him to figure it out! haha

a 40 day fast is after what Christ did in the wilderness when he was tempted by satan. So, that is 40 families or people fast one day for 40 days. with the purpose of being missionary work. In this ward in particular it will be able to find someone to investigate or reactivate within 40 days of their fast. It's powerful.

Love ya.

--
Elder Michael Stone.

Hey mom,

...and everyone else.

I'm one of the oldest tenure-wise in my zone too. It's so strange that the entire mission changed in a matter of months. It's crazy how many more missionaries come out during the summer than all of the other months. man. I don't know why they send me border to border, but seemsd like eventually I will end up in the middle around Kirtland and Cleveland right? haha who knows. For transfers, if you are being out-zoned you go to Kirtland at the stake center there and we have a big meeting where you are told where you are going, Then you throw your stuff into the truck and head out. So, I drove a ton on transfer day. Elder Furtney is from Cedar City and he has been in warren the entire three months he has been out.

This ward isn't too active in missionary work or even too excited about it for that matter so we have been trying to get on the good side of the leaders, mainly the Bishop. So we have been trying to get names of people from him to go see and update him with people that we do see as often as we can. Yesterday the both of us fasted to be able to work better with him and the rest of the ward getting them to become more missionary minded and so on and so forth. It seemed to go really well because we proposed a way for the ward to become more active in PEC and then later that day we went and ate dinner with the Bishop and his family. We shared a powerful lesson and told his wife, who is working on some of her friends that we would come back later and help her know how she can invite them to learn about the Gospel. It was very good and miracles will happen with hard work and becoming united with the ward. That is the key: the members.

Hey, It's alright, you weren't the only one who was getting annoyed by their bodies this week. My eye was annoying me so I had to wear my glasses for about half of the week. I don't like wearing those very much, but my eyes are a-ok now. Just needed a break! haha. I've been trying to eat a lot healthier this week too. I needed to turn my eating habits around, so I didn't buy any freezer food and so I'm hoping to be able to keep it up for awhile, and if I fall I will still be eating healthier than I was. I gotta get myself in shape!

I met that Brandon Ruiz guy once at state, He signed one of my shirts! I know it was pretty cool. he is a big guy.

Don't get a Mazda 5, those are like wannabe mini-vans. They are super ugly and really really small! Get a Pilot! or a Hyundai elantra or sonata. They are good looking cars.

This weekend I did a lot of pondering on discerning the promptings of the spirit. It's an intersting thing to think about and try to understand. There was instance where I felt the spirit so strongly and I didn't know why. I didn't know what to do either so I was praying asking to be able to know what I needed to do, but I couldn't discover what it was that I needed to do unfortunately.

Wanna hear a Crazy story? So, we don't live in the best part of town (plus everyone is black...) and one night I woke up around 3:30 to what I thought was a gunshot. I was like, oh crap... then I heard this terrifying scream of this lady (she was black too, You could tell) probably the most terrifying and stomach rentching thing I have ever heard in my life. Then I heard that sound again and Either the guy was beating the tar out of her or destroying something, I figured they were drunk or high, I looked out the window to try to see what was going on. Thankfully there was a tree there blocking my vision. But I just laid there and listened to this woman yell and scream "NOOOO aahhh" I can't remember exactly, but oh man It made me sick! I felt like I could have thrown up right there at that time! oh man, I was then so grateful for where we live where we don't have to put up with crime and all the other nonsense that goes on out here. It's pretty crazy. I don't really appreciate it, but, We do what we can and keep ourselves out of trouble! ;)

This last week we have set the trend of inviting everyone we see to be baptized, man it's such a great feeling. we are teaching this man named michael who has had three strokes. he came to church and has a baptismal date. we are hoping to be able to see some amazing things take place here.

Love ya!
--
Elder Michael Stone.
P.s. Here is a picture of my shoe.. I don't know if they will or can replace it. I haven't had any problems with it letting any water in yet.

Hey Mom,

This week has been good. I'm with a new missionary again. he has only been out three months so it seems like I will be carrying a lot of the load, He isn't too comfortable with teaching or talking to people yet so I'm going to try to shut up for once (I seem to talk a lot these days.. Strange I know) So he can get more practice teaching. He is really shy too so it's easy for me to just keep talking because he is perfectly fine in just sitting in silence and not saying anything. I ended up in a city called Warren, out by PA. So there are some hills here instead of just straight flat. There are a lot more trees here too. My new address is 2922 Dunstan Drive NW Warren OH, 44485. I'm not sure how long I will be here but My hopes aren't for 6 months again. It was fun being in Perrysburg for that long, but 4.5 is a better amount of time. I also hope to be able to help Elder Furtney enough so that he will be capable to train here soon. I guess we'll see what happens.

It's a small ward here. I would have guessed it to be a branch. I think it's only a phase two building. So no pews, a basketball hoop hangs in the chapel, no foyer, etc. Very small. Maybe just a bit bigger than the building in St. Mary's. There are more less-active/inactive people here in this ward though than I have ever seen. So hopefully we will be able to get in to teach a lot of these people and get them back to church. I've done a lot of Less-active work on my mission so I look forward to being able to have a lot to do here. The Bishop, along with the ward, from what I can tell aren't very missionary minded so we are starting to work with them more to help them gain that mindset and hopefully we will be able to be blessed with a lot of people to teach so they can see that we are out working hard and so they will trust us more and become more willing to help us out with things.

We don't have to do anything today. So it's cool. It allows us to have more of a p-day. But, they moved our weekly meeting to tonight so we don't get the entire day off. Oh well. I think this transfer is going to be really neat where I'm going to have to help my district a lot. (granted there are only four of us...) Mainly because My comp. only has three months, the other one only has 4.5 and the last one is brand new getting trained. So it's a really young group that I'm going to be working with.

It's good though that you have to go to the adult classes. sometimes they are interesting... but it's okay, I get bored in my sunday school classes too, mainly because I have to go to gospel essentials so it's the same things that we teach, just more of a basic setting.

I have one set of shoes that has a hole in the heel. It's really small, I thought about getting it replaced but it's not too bad yet so I don't know if they will or not. I'm not too worried about it. I will though when It starts to snow and I get my foot wet because of the hole. Maybe I will send you a picture of it and so you can see what they have to say? Everything else is doing fine for now. I have a few Suit pants that may need to be replaced in the coming months, but they are good right now.

I'm trying to eat a lot healthier, so I have been trying to lay off of the sugars and stuff and I have almost completely stopped drinking soda. I will have a drink every now and then but that's it.

The community here is a lot poorer than all of my other areas as far as I can remember. The majority of the people work at the steel mills so they are union guys and don't get paid too much. There a ton of black people. (all of my areas have been predominately white...) :/ Everyone we have talked to though seems a lot more receptive and somewhat dependable, comparing to the ghetto people of east Toledo. So, I'm excited to be able to work here. The economy here is really bad so everything is kind of trashed because no one can afford to really keep things nice. But no real ghetto from what I have seen.

It's getting cold now too. I'm not really looking forward to it. Now that I'm on the other side of the lake we will get more of a wind-chill and when it snows, more of it. Also, with the winter you never see the sun, not ever. So that's a total drag. I hope to be able to get busy enough to where we aren't outside too much. Just inside teaching a ton of people and baptizing/reactivating. It will be sweet if you ask me.

last night we went to go see a less-active in hopes to teach about missionary work and to receive a refferral, but it went a way I never would have guessed. We asked a question and she just went on about all of the horrible things that she has had to go through with her children and late husband. I had no Idea what to do. I was just thinking, what on earth are we going to share with this sister to help her? I started to pray fervently asking the Lord that we might be able to minister to this sister, and I got nothing. So we just listened and listened for probably half an hour. without really saying a thing. Finally, as I was continuing to pray I was told to open my scriptures and search, I had no Idea what I was going to share. Finally I came across Helaman 6: 35-37 which, if I said the right one, talks about missionary work! I was like woah... Umm we haven't talked about missionary work in forever! But the spirit prompted so I read it. When I had finished reading it to her she wrote it down and her countanance changed. I still have no idea how that applied to her, but God knows and it was evident that his had was shown because Elder Furtney and I don't really know what happened. It was really neat.

Just thought I would share that... anyways... all is good

I'm doing great!

Love ya!

--
Elder Michael Stone.

Hey mom,

The last weeks have been somewhat rough, I guess? If you want to put it that way. We just don't have a single thing going on here in Perrysburg. So we just tract and so there isn't really too much to say when all you do is tract. I am leaving tomorrow though and I will find out where I will be then as well. What I will be doing is the same as I always am. Trying to save souls ;) Thing is of it though, I really have like no clue what to say because there haven't really been any advetures or things to talk about because we have zero investigators currently. So that will be tough for Elder Porter and his new comp, Sucks for them. I Care about it cause I want this area to stay good, but nothing is going on. What will be rough too is in december they are closing the ward building for some remodling. So for three months or so they will have to go to another one down in Bowling Green which is 20 to 30 minutes away for us and we are south of the ward. So it will make it even harder for them to get investigators to church.

That van has lasted a really long time! It's about time that it has gone. But hey, you don't really need to rush to get a new car. You all fit in the Cruiser and how often do you really all drive around together? not too often I would safely assume. Sounds like how the rest of our vacations have gone in the past though. That's pretty rough. I guess dad isn't really going to be able to buy another BMW in the near future eh? haha.

Sounds like a good thing we moved when we did! I'm amazed though at how often that ward still changes, splits and has things added on to it. That's amazing. Wrestling season should be excited for the boys this year though. I'm glad Matthew has decided to do that. Even though he may not do well, it will help him build character, Strength and some confidance. Champions are really good to their boys.

The last few days talking to members it was really interesting and quite humbling to see how much they have appreciated my time. Sometimes as a missionary you somewhat feel like a ghost, or a shadow in the back-ground and no one really knows you or notices you. But I mean I have been here for a good while and I guess I didn't Fully realize the things that have happend and the impact that it has had on the active members. I mean we work with Less-actives and non-members so you know what happens with them and that you have an impact on their lives and that friendship is developed. The active members are not really who you think about that much. so It was nice and humbling, in the largest degree to see how my service to others, and all in as many ways as I could had such a large effect. But I guess that's what happens when the Lord is on your side. Because all of the merits go to Him, Not me. All I tried to do was emulate and become like our savior and act accordingly. So I am in need of great thanks to God for the spirit and blessings he has bestowed on his children here through me and allowing me to take part in his will.

There is more to our purpose here on this earth than most people think. It's amazing.

Love ya!

--
Elder Michael Stone.

Hey mom,

So, I guess I'm going to be getting transferred this next wednesday. Elder Porter was called to train... Interesting, but it will be good for him. And me, I get to leave and my posterity gets to grow. Sweet I know.. haha That's the reason why I'm not e-mailing back until today because our p-day was moved due to the training meeting he had to attend on monday. This week has been good. It's gotten really cold though so not too fun. I'm waiting to pull out my coats but I may have to pull them out sooner than I would like. oh well. I'm curious where I will be, I'm told that I was suggested to leave this side of the state and go back to the other side.

You should make Jenn and Adam help you pay for the basement to get finished, Great Idea... But, I wouldn't put a door there to close off that hall. That would look ugly.. haha my opinion, Is that small third room over there still going to be the weight room? If it's only going to be us three down there they should be fine right? that's enough privacy, it's a fairly large house. But hey, I don't live there currently so I guess I don't really have a say right? ;P

ummm... we are still tracting a lot... We gota Referral from a member, I think I might have told you about this already. but, she has 11 people living in her home and I thing 7 are baptismal age. we finally got in to teach her last sunday and look forward to teaching her again this sunday and setting a baptismal date with her. then we can hopefully work with her family and get them all baptized so this area can remain prosperous and alive for my future posterity ;) I really have no idea what to say... so if you are on currently and would like more let me know and I may stretch some of my random thoughts into more words so you have more to read.

Otherwise, I'll talk to ya tuesday! haha

Love ya!

--
Elder Michael Stone.

Hey Mom,

Bryan is a no go. Haven't seen him in two weeks and we passed him driving the other day and saw him smoking. So, I'm not sure what to do with him. We may just drop him. It's nearly impossible to get a hold of him too because he is basically homeless and doesn't answer his phone. We get out of our car wherever. As long as you don't do anything stupid you will be fine. That Grafiti was actually in a safer part of Toledo. Transfers aren't for another two weeks though.

I can't believe you got Four inches of snow already. That's pretty crazy if you ask me. I can't ever remembering it snowing so early in October. what a bummer. Why hasn't Spanish Fork bought the land yet? That's pretty lame, Dad should just tell them if they dont' buy it he is going to start looking for other people who will... Does it work that way? Probably not, but it's a though haha.

This week went by really fast, I was on a two day exchange up with one of the Zone-leaders and Elder Porter stayed in Perrsyburg with one of the assistants one day and then the next with another zone-leader from another zone. So that was nice, a bit of a break and something to speed up the week. Plus, I didn't have to drive, which was nice and they ended up tracting like six hours those two days that I was gone. That was pretty nice. Especially with how much things have slowed down here. There is a member though who invited her friend to take the discussions so we are excited about that, It's just going to be really hard to meet with her because she has 8 kids. 7 of which are between 12 and 8, and she homeschools them all... I don't know why she would do that, but thats a fairly common thing out here I guess.

We are focusing a little bit on the Less-actives now as well because the original ones we would go see Have become active again or they haven't progressed at all so we have stopped seeing them. There is this one guy who hasn't been to church in years and he stopped going because he got offended by the bishopric when he went through a divorce. we have seen him twice now and the last time we went and saw him we read a few scriptures and he was just like yeah... I should probably just leave what is in the past there and go back to church and so I can make it to the temple. We have been doing that with all of the new less-actives we are teaching is invting them to the temple and to prepare by coming to church. It's been a good success so far. The Temple is very powerful, especially with the spirit of Elijah.

Anyways... It was a quiet week. so nothing really has changed at all. Unfortunatly. Oh well.

Love ya!



--
Elder Michael Stone.

Hey mom,

Conference was great. It was a great amount of flowing revelation. The Spirit of the Lord was there for sure, making every word they said scripture. I'm Curious about the new provo temple, such as; what it will be called, and how big it will be. seeing that the Tabernacle wasn't the biggest, I can't imagine it being a very large temple. It will be nice having that one and then I guess the Payson one had the ground breaking today, that will relieve a lot of pressure off of the Provo Temple. That's cool that Whitney wanted and was able to go down and spend time with you guys. I'm glad there is someone in that family who wants to have a relationship with us. I Guess I did forget to mention that I do e-mail her just about every week. It's been nice. I have actually been able to get to know one of my cousins. Interesting statement right? I even Mentioned to elder Porter that you guys were probably eating too much food during conference... Seems to be a common trend in the Home. I only have one more conference in Ohio...

I don't know what you can do to get grandpa in that house with you. The first step would be finishing the house. Good luck.

So, I'm not exactly sure what it may be. Possibly the Eyes of my understanding opening a bit to be able to understand on a deeper and greater level of what the General Authorities speak. Or, It could be something else. I'm not sure, I was able to take close to 17 pages of notes so I will have a good list to review and remember in the next month before we get the ensign so I can begin to really treasure up the words of the Lord. I'm not sure what Dad told you, but in priesthood, Elder Holland came in as a fire ball and some say rebuked, I say Admonished, us to be better priesthood holders. So on and so forth. It was really quite a great talk. President Packers talk was really good too. Especially the Poem of the old and young crow. Elder Hales didn't look too well either. I hear that he has cancer? this true? He looked so much better last october when He was able to speak. He didn't speak at all last conference so I knew there was something. I just didn't know what. Soon enough I will be able to quote what was said this go around. There are somethings that actaully quite stood out too me. In which I am very grateful. I'm very appreciative for the Technology we have to be able to watch Conference around the world and to be able to go back, listen, watch and read It online.

I think you have told me matthew has decided to wrestle every week for the last month now... I'm sure I won't forget ;P

Luckily, I have previously printed some of my pictures out. So we have some. But I also have a card reader so I can also send some of them via e-mail as well. That's a bit of a bummer though because that was about 6 months of pictures on that card. How many of them were corrupted? Hopefully not too many and a good amount of them can be saved. I am sure to print out the important ones though and the other ones that I like and keep them with me. So, We will have to see what happens. I guess I will start sending some back periodically to you via e-mail.

Last week was so strange. we don't have very many investigators and the ones we do, we weren't able to see at all last week. We have one date set for the 15th, hopefully that will work. we just need to get in touch with the member who has been helping us facillitate our discussions with Bryan Magid. The member has a been a bit awol the last few days. not answering or returning calls or texts. Frustrating. We don't have too much though. But, we are working hard and this next week should go well. I'm going to be on exchanges for two days in a row this week so that should help speed things up. those are always nice to mix it up a bit.

Thanks for looking for those Cds. How long does it take for them to come out?

I can't think of too much else to say... We went to the John Johnson home last monday for P-day. Did I already tell you that? That was cool.

I will attach some pictures from the last week.

Love ya!

--
Elder Michael Stone.

Hey mom,

My age makes me seem older, but I'm really still a kid. there is no hiding that..I did get my package, thanks so much! This birthday was a lot better than last years down in st. marys. the ward was very nice. I think I got three cakes. I only took two though.. There is a sister in my district as well that has the same birthday as me so we kinda, (as much as you can. which isn't that much) celebrated it together. We have a tab at a bakery so we were able to pick up a good cake haha. and no, we will not stop at tucanos on the way home next year. we will stop at the stake presidents house... then, tucanos.

You know, things do happen in a weird way sometimes. Last transfer we were able to teach a lot and do a good amount of finding. unfortunately, all of the people we found last transfer kind of turned out to be flakes and really not progressing so we dropped a few and the others didn't turn out the way we had hoped. so we are somewhat starting anew with investigators. but, hey we will see what happened. we are trying to proselyte 32 hours through out the week. I figured it out too that we have a total of 52 hours or so proselyting through out the week so we have about twenty hours to do other useless not productive things... because that happens.

Jordyn so should play the piano! that's a good talent, plus that piano we have needs to be used! haha so yes, go for it sister! Is ammon on crutches? what a bummer.

I'm so stoked for conference. we will be watching it at the church. the only time we will watch it at a members is if there is an investigator there and we need to be at the church just in case anyone we teach shows up. I like watching it in the Chapel too because I can focus better and it is a lot more conducive to the spirit and so I am able to learn a lot more... and so just for future reference.. .because I'm going to ask... I will be wanting some CDS of the general Conference. that way I can listen to them in the car while we are driving...

there is this one guy we are teaching. His name is sam basil. he is married to a member who hasn't been in years but we had asked if he wanted to meet with us so we could teach him. well, He is very interesting. he was born catholic, raised and baptized that way and says that baptism is necessary to be saved. but, he doesn't believe in an afterlife. Also, I talked to him last week while on splits what he thought about Jesus Christ paying the price for all mankind and their sufferings, sins etc. He said that he had never thought about it before! I was just like woah man, You didn't realize that was what all Christendom based their belief's on? oh my gosh you are sooo missing out. He is almost if not completely atheistic. so we are going to have to really get down to the root of things tomorrow night when we go see him. It will definitely have to be guided by the spirit if we are to do anything good with this man. oh geez.

I'm not too sure what else to report on... We had a three zone, (half the mission) p-day yesterday and it was a lot of fun. it was out in hiram at the Johnson home. we did a few activities and then had a relay in which our zone won. yes it was very legit. but yeah. Not too much to say i guess.

So yeah , Thank you and I love you.

Stay out of trouble

--
Elder Michael Stone.

Hello there,

The baptism went well. Brother Child was able to do it and they had their son from provo come out to help and be involved. It was pretty powerful and a really good day. Brother Child is getting a calling and should be sustained next week. those two are going to be some of the most solid members of this ward. They are really on fire. We've been able to get in and see a good number of the people we have contacted but they really aren't that solid. we have two pretty good looking baptismal dates set for the following two weekends of General Conference with Bryan and another girl named Paige who was a referral from a ysa in the ward. we are looking forward to that. Elder Porter was ready to get transferred and get a new comp, granted so was I, but mainly just a comp. being with the same person 24/7 for 4.5 months is hard no matter who you are. So, we'll see how it goes. Our ward mission leader is fantastic, he is a former bishop and stake president (maybe just a member of the stake presidency, I can't remember).

Ammon is always getting hurt somehow. He is just going to have to take it easy. torn muscles take forever to recover.

I know whitney wride. I had a class with her a few years ago. Good girl.

This week went by pretty slow, but it was good. The dynamics of this transfer are going to be a bit different but still good. we are going to get the Ward mission process updated and re-done hopefully in the next week or two. we will be doing a bit more tracting than usual. we did about twice as much this last week as we have in the past. it was kind of a bummer, but hey. You gotta do it so you can find new people to teach. we do have a few people though that seem like they can become pretty solid. we met this older lady in town who is loaded. She owns several car dealerships here in the Toledo area and told us that she never joined a church when she came here (I don't know how many years ago) so she doesn't go anywhere. we are hoping to be able to get to teach her and help her come to church and baptize her and all you know? I think that would be great.

We are also teaching a man who converted to Islam two years ago. pretty interesting. I don't really know why he joined that faith. but he seems pretty shaky in his faith there. so we are working with him. he is reading out of the book of mormon and was willing to pray for us the proper way. It was neat. this weekend too the local mosque (which is one of the largest in The us. I think... May be wrong) was having a festival so we went ang got a tour of it. That was interesting. They took us into their prayer room and it just seemed so irreverant while some people were praying and doing their rituals. I was just thinking that you would never see that on a temple tour or if you had a large open house and tour of the local meeting house. Especially in the Chapel. Their beliefs are pretty interesting as well. very nice people, close on somethings but universe's away on others. I dont' get it. it seems so easy to be a member of any other faith. Didn't Christ say that the right way would be difficult?

Also, we were tracting in a little town nearby and a guy came out and started yelling at us. As soon as he opened the door was just like, "you guys are a cult! I don't want any of this Cult *$&% whatever whatever. If you are preaching truth you will be persecuted, The Apostles preached truth and they were killed! you are going to be persecuted and killed teaching truth" he kept going on yelling profanity and whatnot, making himself look like a fool. so we said good-day and kept going on, then he proceeded to yell at us at the end of his yard "didn't you hear me?! we don't want your cult @&#&$ @&$^#(& (fill in the gaps) in this city! no one will listen to you" so we said good-day again and continued on. It was just interesting because the scripture that kept coming to my head was " you will be hated for my names sake, My own recieved me not". This man wasd in part fulfilling scripture. really, Fulfilling his own words looking like an idiot. So, I figure when Judgement day comes and I'm standing at the bar against him, He will be pretty shocked. Interesting principle there, How many people may we have to testify against, and, how many people will we have testify against us come that day? hmmm.. That's the second time that sort of thing has happened in that town. nice place.... :/

I can't think of anything else really.

Until then,

Love ya!
--
Elder Michael Stone.

P.s. For my package. I need some cologne. Because when we leave ghetto places and homes full of smoke I stink! need something to counter act that stench... so maybe some hollister stuff or Aqua digio, or Georgio armani. you know. the good stuff.

Hey mom,

Still in perrysburg and still with Porter. Strange, I have never heard of a trainer being with his greenie for this long, I guess There is more to do with him. This week Sister Child will be getting baptized and then we get to have a bit of a break, but we are hoping to have a few more coming in october. We had a member text us this last week telling us that her friend wants to join the church, A Member who hasn't been to church in years showed up with her non-member husband the last two weeks so hopefully we will be able to start teaching him as well. Things are still going, Just not sure if it will be as busy, but we will still be able to teach a good amount.

Looks like you might want to consider putting matthew in a soccer club or send him to some camps and what not so he can be on a club team and get some play time with them. Also, It makes zero sense to me that the second string player can't even dress if he isn't "bringing it" if he isn't bringing it enough to even dress varsity then apparently he shouldn't be even playing JV. Send him to Spanish, He would get time there. He would have a name so he would at least get a chance. It's okay though, I told you last year that Maple Mountain had Garbage for coaches and unless they wanted to compete in anything they were going to have to change a lot around. don't sweat it though. Sophmores aren't even suppose to be on the JV squad, be content with what you have and always strive to do better. That's one thing I have learned within the Gospel that Relates to all. If you are doing all that you can, being your best, wether we are the best in that place or not, we know that we are doing our part. God doesn't make mistakes, Man does, if we get mad at man's mistakes and throw a fit; we are proud, President Benson told us Pride is the great stumbling block of Zion. it's apparent everywhere. So, If the coaches are not even good enough to their players who do all that they can and doing their best, that's their fault. I mean lets look at the world of work, If the employer isn't good to one of their hardest working employee's then, what is that persons motivation to stay? Don't sweat it, I mean heck, if it's that big of a deal, go to Spanish. the coaches like me enough to allow him to play. If there was any relation to Priesthood, they would be released for unrighteous dominion. ha What do Blaine and Jerry have to say?

As far as our investigators go, unfortunately, we don't really have anyone solid right now, so we are kind of back to base one. We are working with some member refferals and some finding ideas of our own. This ward seems to be catching fire though, at least with some of the members. To be honest, I'm not really sure what lays ahead for the coming six weeks. we will baptize sister child on saturday, then in october we have another baptism planned with a members friend who we have been teaching and he has been trying to obey the word of wisdom. His name is Bryan, he seems pretty sincere but the hard thing is, he lives in the hood and has no car, no job, and no money. so, without his main fellowshipper, he is kind of isolated. we are working on getting him some other friends in the ward so when his fellowshipper can't come or anything like that he will still be able to get to church and feel comfortable there.

so, Elder porter and I are going to study a Christ-like attribute every week this transfer so we can be more righteous, that way we can be like Nephi or something like that. Super Powerful and all you know? it will be great. we'll see what happens! ha

Not really sure what else to talk about yet.. hmmm..

well, Peace dogs.

--
Elder Michael Stone.

Hey mom,

In response to your question. Training really helps you understand your purpose. He has the skills to be able to train, but it will teach him a lot more as well where to why he is out here. That's why. Part of training is being able to find yourself.

I bet you are enjoying the warm weather. It is getting cooler here now from all of the surrounding storms. It's suppose to be in the high 60's and mid 70's all week. Nothing like the Arizona sun. Speaking of Ghetto. If you want to see some place trashed and totally Ghetto, come to Toledo. It's garbage, honestly. Especially the east side that we cover. We don't even go there unless we already have a teaching appointment set up. People will talk to you and you will get a lot more contacts, but I will tell you what, If you expect to see them there. Ha, Yeah right....

Have you ever been to Mormon.org? It's a really cool website, I have a Profile set up on there. we are encouraged to use it in our teaching and to send people there when we contact them. but we dont' use it too much. Depending on the wards and the bishops around here there are some that really like it and use it. We have talked to members about it and surprisingly a lot more than I would have thought go there quite often. You are right though, I don't know why they would make a big push for it in Utah.

I actually have been thinking about school. If you could Apply at UVU for me and see what kind of scholarships I can get that would be great. I would put my money on attending UVU. But, it just depends on what is cheaper and what not. I figure too, that staying at home will be cheaper and that I will be able to get a job. I don't really know what will go down in Cedar, I would like to just get my feet planted and pointing in the right direction for a little while though. So, Apply there, see what you can get and we'll talk some more about it later. Just make me look good. ;P

Our baptism's definitely went down. I loaded a picture of us. Cassius had a football game Saturday morning, so they were running a half hour late. but it was still really good. the entire baptism room was full and we had to add more chairs, if anyone else were to come it would have been standing room only. It was very cool. While there I learned something new as well. Something that I guess that I always knew, but it just didn't occur to me. I always have a fear of my converts going less-active, but on Saturday at the baptism I was thinking of that and well, of course the spirit was very present. As i was pondering I was taught by the Holy Ghost that the reason why we have those powerful feelings at baptism is because that is the Holy Spirit of promise. Which means, that if an ordinance or anything done by the Priesthood is accepted by God. So that fear of mine of not doing a good job and baptizing people before they are ready is now gone that I better understand the way that the spirit works and the Holy Spirit of Promise. Neat stuff. I baptized the two on the left in the picture standing next to me; Selena and Merilda. On Sunday we had members confirm the kids and that was very powerful, Possibly even prophetic for some of them. Being able to live and witness purpose is amazing. Now, we just need to work on Finding new people and setting some baptismal dates with them. Transfers are coming up next week again. Crazy, I know I say it every time, but it just goes too fast sometimes. well, most of the time. I don't think I will stay here. I would love to, but I do think my time is up here. I have been wrong before though so we will have to see what happens.

It's weird though, since we baptized the kids, I have like almost lost motivation. Maybe it was just at the end of the week. I will be able to get it back of course, I always do. But it was just strange to see, maybe it was just the feeling of the hand off from us to the ward and them not really being under our jurisdiction anymore, I guess you could say. Oh yeah! Cassius became a teacher on sunday and I was able to Ordain Brother Child to the office of a Priest and to give him the Aaronic priesthood. It was really neat!

That's about it though.

Peace out, A town down..

--
Elder Michael Stone.

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DSC

Hey,,,

The uh pdf worked. The front of the house doesn't look a think like the way it did when I left. That's insane! Looks like a ton of bark too. Geez. that's fun haha That's a lot more progress than I thought It would be. Good job. in one picture it looks like Ammon has a Mullet? if I saw right it looked like him. What the heck is up with that? oh gosh, I can't believe you let him do that.

So, are most of Ammons friends playing JV as well? That's pretty cool though that he was able to play as much as he did. playing two full games will get him a lot of experience and he will be able to improve a lot faster having that much game time than just practice. so that's really good. I wouldn't say anything to his coaches though. Let him handle it. If they can't figure it out that's their problem. That is interesting though that he is the only one that isn't invited to dress for varsity. I always did say that They would have to change a few things to become a successful program. That's odd though that he isn't even put on special teams. That's what Coach C did. If you weren't a starter on O or D, he would allow you to start with the special teams and prove yourself there.

Kirtland this week was Amazing! holy cow! It was probably the most powerful tour and experience that I have had there. The spirit was so Strong. We watched the movie at the end Joseph smith, The prophet of the Restoration with the new footage. Man, that was powerful. Sister Child told us that she didn't want to leave because it was such a great feeling. Brother Child learned a lot of his purpose and why he needs to become fuly active in the church again. She will be getting baptized on the 17th. The Grames' are getting baptized this saturday. I'm super stoked for that. I will be able to Baptize merilda and Selena, Two of the girls and Elder porter will be baptizing Cassius and Rita. I hope that we will be able to have a good turn out and a lot of support from the ward. we are having some of the ward members confirm them. It's just been a bit different with this one because the main fellowship has been their family and the youth. So, when we asked some of these members, (mainly the youth leaders, future HT) were a bit surprised. but, They accepted and we are happy to be able to see a bond develop between them and the ward. They had their interviews on sunday and did well. we just need to cover a few more principles before saturday.

It doesn't really matter how long I have been anywhere. you are really always up for a transfer. I feel like I will probably leave in two weeks. Three days before Sister Child gets baptized. mainly because this is the second area I have had for this long and so I think that Elder Porter has a good chance to train this next transfer, so Who knows. I would really like to stay because we will be baptizing hopefully three more people we are working with this next transfer.

These headaches and migranes are like all over. We just had a missionary come back out after recovering from those and we also just had one leave who was going through that as well. I'm glad that I have only had one of my bad migranes that make me throw up and everything so far. I'm on a good track I guess. I talk to chet every now and then as well. I hope that he will be able to get back out and be able to do it quickly. It's always hard to do it a second time.

Yesterday, we had a mission conference with Elder Marcus B. Nash of the 70. holy cow, was that inspiring and enlightening. I will tell you what. These men are absolutely called of God. No doubt about that. I had some strong impressions come to me and I was able to learn quite a bit. For sure though, I was humbled. as we were having these discussions and then afterward in a leadership segment, I had no Idea how I could participate and contribute. I learned that I definitely don't know as much as I thought I did. To think though, How much I have learned and how much I will be able to Learn is a great Idea. Many thoughts came to my mind. This last week I really learned a lot and with application as well. First and foremost. I learned that to be truly and deeply successful, You need to know and feel Gods love. Then go forth and allow others to see and feel that love in all that you do. Love everyone. why? We all came from that very same God who created us in the beginning. we are all Brothers and sisters. The second, Is how to show that love. My oh my, there are so many ways that this is possible. It's just going to take some steps in action and relying wholly and completly on the Lord, of which, I can always do more. along with many other things. I just have to remember them!

--
Elder Michael Stone.

PS. The basement, Should look as good, if not better (because we have so much practice now!) as the yard when I get home. ;P

Hey fellas!

I think I need some drugs for my shoulders! For some odd reason they are driving me insane sometimes! I'm on some anti-inflamitories and I'm thinking about getting a massage from a guy that's living with some members in the ward, But I don't know. We are going to go play a relaxing game of golf today and so we'll see... haha Just gotta last one more year and then I can go do some PT at home.

Yesterday In ward council we found out that The sunday after the Kids get baptized is stake conference, so they would have to wait a week and a half to be able to get confirmed. We will have to see if they are ready earlier so they don't have to wait as long. It's just really hard to be able to get out to see them because they live a half hour away from everything. They are doing well though, they just feel a bit overwhelmed though from all of the new things, especially because they were invited to participate in seminary. They had a meeting for it yesterday and they were just like woah, hold on. This is a lot to take on so fast. So we will have to go over and work with them some more. It's really neat though because everytime we ask them if they have any questions they are just like "no, it all makes sense, you can't really argue with it al all, it just sounds right" so that's really neat.

Also, For Dorothy Child, I think I said we were taking her to Kirtland this week, if not, we are. It's going to be a really good experience. She is doing amazing! Her husband, Bob, had an interview with the bishop yesterday about becoming a priest so he can baptize her (he has been a member his entire life, Just not active for 50 years). We talked to the bishop and he wants him to wait two more weeks, but, my jealous side is kind of coming out and saying that I want her to be baptized on the third so I know for sure that I will be here for it. At the same time, I want Brother Child to be able to baptize her though because it would strengthen them a lot and be a really big testimony building experience. That's something that He needs more that her at this time, But it would still be great for the both of them. We will have to talk to them and see what they think and what they want to do. She'll be baptized either way.

The ward is doing really well with all of the new people coming to church, They are super excited too. I haven't seen anyone rally around a family as I have now with the Grames family coming to church, The YW, YW and primary are all really excited to have new youth in the ward. Also with the Child's, they are getting some good fellowship and being involved in a lot of things, they just need some time to establish themselves and get out there so they can get to know some more people and gain some friends within the church.

Maple Mountain lost to morgan, that bites. If I remember correctly, They need a better play-book. Theirs is not the greatest. Oh well. Don't forget the Endowment game is like all practice. He can't get discouraged by that. I mean playing JV is still pretty good for a sophomore. So, I mean just keep working, I'm sure he will get some play time, even if it is only special teams. That's more than I ever had.

Maybe you will be able to get the grass in this week. all I care is if I have a room when I get home and the Volleyball court is done well when I get home. You aren't using train ties are you? That's not a good plan... haha you gotta make it like AVP approved, That would be legit. ;)

We started running and going lifting in the mornings now, I'm glad we have started to do that. we go around 2 miles a day and then lift every other. It's nice. I mean I gotta stay somewhat in shape. I haven't really done anything since i got out. so... yeah.. ;P

well, Love you guys, Stay fly


--
Elder Michael Stone.

Hey there.

This week went really well. We were able to set two more baptismal dates. We have one for the first weekend of September and then we have five planned with the family we are teaching for the following Wednesday. Sunday went well too. we were able to get six out of the ten at church and they all had some really good experiences. I was just a little bit worried though because we had to leave after sacrament to go to speak in the singles branch down in bowling green. Talk about pitiful.. only 20 people were there.

I'm pretty bothered right now, Seems like Elder Porter has been putting on a facade for some reason. This last week he has just been all argumentative in companion study and his attitude and desire are draining me. It just seems like he doesn't want to do anything. The hardest part is companion study, Thankfully we have been teaching a lot so I'm not really alone with him that much you know. I just don't get it. I really don't know what to do. I mean okay yeah, It's good to go on a mission but what is driving you? I mean no one else in his family has ever gone on a mission so there must be something to drive him to be out here right? Yeah, I would never guess what it would be... He Seems to just hate everything. Why do something that you hate? I mean jeez. whats the point of doing that? As for myself, if you remember. I didn't do a lot of things that I had no fun in or enjoyment. I have no Idea what to do. We are going on exchanges with the Zone leaders tomorrow so I'm going to talk to them and stuff... Maybe I'm just to prideful, Who knows... I guess there is something there that I have to work on.

Our investigators are doing extremely well. talk about them receiving revelation through church attendance. man. They all seemed to have a really good time and learned a lot. I'm really glad that they did too. The ward here did really well (at least from what I saw during sacrament) in fellowshipping them and all of that. You don't get that in very many other wards. The six that we had there, Dorothy Child, who is to hopefully be baptized on September 3, and then Rita, Selina, Cashis, and Merilda Harris on the 7th, and Bryan Magid in October are all really solid. We are thinking about taking Dorothy to Kirtland in two weeks or so. It's been a long time since I have been out there and taken a tour. I kinda want to go again... Hopefully too, If we are allowed we want to take the Harris kids out to Kirtland as well. I think it would help them out a lot in their testimony and knowledge of the Restoration of the Gospel. I have never been in a place where so many people have been prepared by the Lord. Dorothy's husband, Bob, has been a member his entire life but hasn't been to church in many, many years and I guess he has somewhat avoided church members or been unable to be contacted by them in the last 24 years or so that they have lived here. But it just happens that we meet him and his wife when He can't work because he almost died of a triple aortic aneurysm. Which in itself I believe opened them up or prepared them for the Gospel. They have an adopted son that lives in Provo who joined the church about two to three years ago who came when bob was in the hospital and gave him a blessing. So just looking back you can see the Lords hand in their lives preparing them to Come unto Christ or come back to him.

The Harris' kids mom is a member and they have investigated the church several years ago as well. so that is how they were prepared. along with other things. but not as dramatic as Brother Child's.

Anyways. This next week seems like it's going to be good as well. I don't see why not. Things just seem to be going really well. We have just happened to be in the right place at the right time. The spirit has completely done work here and not man. It is just evident that has happened. It's undeniable...

We are no longer counting up. It's a count down now... ;)

--
Elder Michael Stone.

Hey mom,

This week went remarkably well. We ended the week (yesterday) with 8 Baptismal dates and we hope to be able to set, at least, 4 more this week. I feel like I have been blessed in being able to stay here with the entire ward. Because of that we are able to be as busy as we are. I somewhat feel bad because they closed the other area, but, at the same time not really. I know that may sound terrible to say, but most of the work is in the other areas. This upcoming week we have more lessons planned (as of right now) than I have ever seen before in my mission. It's absolutely amazing. I'm just still wondering where all of these people to teach came from. The biggest of our focus I guess is a family of 7 where the mom is a member and no one else is. She has five children ages from 19-11. So six potential baptisms. We were able to meet with three of the kids on saturday and set baptismal dates with them. We are hoping to get a few of her Children Baptized at the end of the month. This lady, Sister Grames, has been inactive for roundabouts of 13 years. Married and divorced maybe more than once and now married to the same guy for two years. I have no real idea what made her want to come back to church and get all of her family baptized, but something did and now I'm super stoked for her and we will have to see what happens right?

This week I have discovered more of my purpose. That, in itself, is a huge thing to discover. Luckily for us, being members of the Church already have more of an understanding than those outside of it. Though, we can still discover more for our individual lives on a daily basis. As we take a look in everything around us, Mostly centered on the Gospel, we can see purpose everywhere. I believe that as we grow in the gospel and in understanding, we will be enlightened with a great sense of purpose, knowing what we are truly here to do. Specifically as well. I always relate this as we are teaching to Alma 34:32 that says that we are here to prepare to meet God and to perform our labors. So, I always ask, What are our labors? Obviously to keep the commandments, but what else? I mean there is a lot of general ideas and answers to this, but I have found for myself There is so much more laying within, that when you discover it, it becomes difficult to articulate one to another.

You know, It's a good thing, and a bad thing that the cousins lost their mom. But I would have to favor the fact that it will be good for them. Because they wont have that influence in their lives and hopefully as they grow up they will be able to look at the life she led and see that everything she did led up to an early death by heart attack. All of those poisons that she put into her body put great stress on her heart and weakened it greatly. You can't expect to treat your body that way and live a long life. I always think too, that those who seek to glorify themselves here on the earth too, recieve their reward here on this earth. Although they are not here to see that "glory and honor" It did happen. right? Then to think of the Lord in his teachings where you are to do things in secret as with to "not let your right hand know what your left hand doeth". Things like that are always interesting to think about and to see happen.

I feel bad for the kids because it's never fun to see someone you love die. But you are right, things will return to normal fairly quickly. She didn't have that much of an infuence in their lives as a real mom should. That's why she is a mom, NOT a mother. I do have to disagree with you thinking that Bailey and Bella will have poor behavior and stuggles. Not more than they already would. It most likely will happen in the near future, but in the long run I can see it being just the same, possibly better. It is never good to have a bad example made seem right in front of you. Now, that this poor example is going to hopefully do all that is possible in the spirit world. They will be able to grow less hindered into what they truly need to become.

I'm glad to see the strength the gospel gives families and the example that I have been able to see within our family. I'm glad to know and see the blessings of being obedient and keeping covenants that you make with the Lord. Even in marriage, It's not just between two entities, but three. Such a good thing to always keep in mind. Actively attending the Temple allows you to remember these things.

I'm glad I get to miss all of the yard work that lays ahead too. Seems like it's going to be more of a job to do the back yard than the front. As long as I have a bedroom when I get home, I will be happy.

anyways. my fellas! it's been good. I can't believe I have been out for this long now either. I usually feel like one of the youngest, but now that half of our zone has only been out two months or less, with only three other missionaries besides myself being out a year or more. It's strange... hmm welp

I guess that's it.

Creative jucies gone.

Love ya!

--
Elder Michael Stone.

Dear mom,

That's a great picture of my face! where did you get it? That's pretty funny.

I did get the package alright, The cupcakes were practically destroyed though. The frosting was everywhere. You're telling me how fast this summer has gone by, Especially for me because I don't get to take a break from anything! I'm honestly amazed just that this transfer is already over. In ten days I will have been gone a year, it's remarkable.

Jordyn Finally got a real room huh? well, I sure hope that there is a room for me when I get home, Either in the basement or upstairs works for me;p.

This week went pretty well for us. Things are picking up and we are getting new investigators and within the last two weeks we have taught more than all of the other weeks combined. Now guess what?! Remember how they split the area? well, they are closing it down and Elder Porter and myself are taking over the entire ward boundaries now! I guess two missionaries went home (one of which was my retarded MTC companion...) and the Oregon area, our ours, being Perrysburg was the least productive in the mission last transfer so they are getting rid of it again. Which, of course, has its pros and cons. Pros; both areas are really starting to do well, finding investigators, teaching less-actives. That means we will be teaching more, getting fed more, and have a car.. (nice!) We are thinking of adding their beds to ours so we have queen size's, we'll see how that goes. Cons; The ward was really happy about having two sets, so I don't know how they will react to this. I was starting to like living with two more missionaries, It makes things a lot more entertaining and so forth. I'm excited though because we will be teaching more and there are several families that we are working with to get to baptism. In fact, one just moved into the ward where the mom is a member and hasn't been to church in 13 years and her husband of two years just got out of the air force, along with her 5 children are not members of the Church and they want to be baptized. I must admit, I am excited about this.

Hopefully we will have some progressing investigators for once right?
Now with a car again, I just have to be careful with what I'm eating... I don't get to burn off the calories just riding to our appointments.

Now, as far as me losing my GPS... That is a frustrating topic. I had pulled it out to find something and then I put it back in my backpack. I figured it would stay, Like it normally does. I mean I have never had it fall out before and I have thrown my bag. Later that night I go to get it and it is just gone! I tried to remember what we did after I used it and all we did was ride our bikes and tract. I think I only took it off twice and we weren't around a lot of people where it could have been stolen. someone must have just apperated, stole it and disapperated. (yes, I just used harry potter words) I'm pretty mad about it, but what can you do? So yes, I do need a new one, really money so I can just go get one at Walmart because we are taking back over the rest of the ward. I am somewhat familiar with the area because I was there six weeks ago, but I don't really know anything in specifics... So, if it is possible, I would Highly appreciate it.

you know, we have met with a few people that believe in the theory of evolution lately, a Buddhist even. Man I just have to tell you that these people are seriously outside their minds! Especially when they leave Christianity to believe that we EVOLVED from an ape!! Just talking to these people and trying to understand what they believe is soo confusing. We saw the Buddhist yesterday and she couldn't answer any of our questions. all she had to say was it's Ignorance, Evil and wickedness comes from ignorance to love. All I could think was that logic shows that even some of the most wicked people in the earth love. Then of course, like they all do, she started talking in circles because somehow that makes sense to them. I mean we can just see that Satan can deceive people in the silliest of ways to the point of these people not making any sense. I just don't get it. I mean come on! If we just keep on getting reincarnated, what is the point of living? why in the heck would thew world care to exist? If God is in us and we are God, why would he reincarnate himself into a limited body? Why would he reincarnate himself into a body that is crippled and constantly being tortured? We asked these questions and she had nothing to say. These people are in wait for a very rude awakening when they die. I will tell you what... Satan, knows how to get people. as we can see, a main influence from him is pride. Then the rest fall within. he will blind you and deceive you until you believe these things that are more difficult to understand than God appearing to man!

-- that is my rant...

This next week should be an adventure right?

Love ya!