Monday, 12/23/13 - Sunday, 12/29/13

Monday – Today was a great P-day! Did the usual email and shopping. Also went to Brother Golson’s and he taught us how to make bracelets out of 50/50 cord, also called parachute cord. They are really cool! Brother Golson is really cool as well. Then we went to Twin Hill Park and watched some guys play a really bad game of basketball. Wish we could have played but we aren’t supposed to play full court. Headed to the church to play. I rejammed my left ring finger. Had an awesome dinner with the Nelson’s. They are planning on moving to Utah. Probably Kaysville area. Then headed to the Nimmo’s to drop in on them and give them the Joy to the World DVD and taught them a bit. They are so cool! Dropped by the Okwu/Brown home because Sister Okwu asked us to. She gave us some little gifts. This ward is so awesome! So many members reaching out to us all the time! Brother Lawson that was in the Tally 4^th Ward walked in while we were finishing playing ball. It was so cool to see him.

Tuesday – Today we had District Meeting and cool thing was that the Ward Mission Leader for the 2^nd Ward brought a guy named Justin and we got to teach him during District Meeting. It was sweet! Then met Clark and set an appointment for tomorrow. Headed to the Thatcher’s for lunch which was really fun. It was so funny. Their son Isaiah told me I was ugly. Then when sharing the message we were on the couch jklm. I was in spot 1, spot 2 was empty, Lexi was in spot 3 and Elder Evans was in 4. I asked Isaiah if he wanted to sit next to Lexi and he was all sad and said, “No, I want to sit next to you.” I replied with, “I’m right here.” Then he said, “Oh” and sat down and started laughing. Also helped Donna today and made a ton of progress. Met her daughter Grace, who is really cool. Then went to the Parker’s house and got in their car with Bishop and Jimmy to pick up Teressa and Ariel. Had dinner with them and a ton of Bishop’s family. Read 3 Nephi 1 and Luke 2. The spirit was so strong! So much fun!

Wednesday – Christmas! Today was great! Ate breakfast at the Bailey’s with all the missionaries. Before that we opened our gifts. We were so blessed with so many gifts. The ward was really great and so were my family! We went to the Bissen’s and read Luke 2 with them. Not sure what to think about Andy and where he is at. Gave Josie a blessing as well. She was feeling sick. I feel bad when babies get sick. Headed to the Wadas’ to Skype after that and that was awesome! Talked to Mom, Sean, Zach and my mom also invited Todd and Aaron over. That was so fun to talk to all of them. Went to Teressa and Ariel’s after we ate with the Wadas! Such good food! Had a traditional Christmas dinner. Taught Teressa and Ariel a powerful lesson on scriptures, prayer and Sabbath day. Also saw Jamie and moved a slab of granite for her. Also saw Jacob Lawson and Zanna Lawson that were in the Tally 4^th Ward. Talked with them and got a picture. I miss them. Also called my dad which was really good. He has changed a lot. It’s good to see that in him. Merry Christmas!

Thursday – Today we ended up having a really long but good weekly planning session. We had to set a goal for the baptisms in the zone next year. We set the goal of 46 for the zone next year. That was an awesome experience to pray and feel the spirit confirm that. Tried to see the Higgins but that didn’t work so we went to see Brother Barbaree (less active). We walked up to his house and he was lurking around checking out our car and everything. He was in his truck and drove around his lawn and everything. Nice guy though. Ate with the Boyd’s at Azteca. It was pretty good. Then had coordination which went really well. Then we went to CVS so I could get some melatonin. Elder Steed who is the mission nurse told me to get it because I have been even more tired than usual lately. We also stopped by to see the Steele’s who are a potential gator. Didn’t work out unfortunately.

Friday – Today we started off going to see Alonzo but he wasn’t home. We ended up talking to Tiffany, his girlfriend. She is really nice and really talkative. Then went to see Amanda who fell through. Felt prompted to knock on her neighbor’s door and met Dorothy. She was nice but not interested so we planted a seed. Put a DVD on a Spanish lady’s porch and then went to see Mallory King. He was in a good mood today so we taught about pride and read a talk by President Benson called “Beware of Pride”. Shane White fell through and so did Michelle and so did Clark and Tristan. Ate lunch. Taught Teressa and Ariel with Sister Okwu. It went well! Lovin’ teaching them! Sister Okwu was awesome! Saw Austin for a brief moment and invited him to volleyball. Tried to see Chuck, didn’t work. Talked to a cool guy name Pat. He was really nice. Not really interested. Jamison boys fell through and the Rogers and Rico. Talked to a lady named Tiffany about family history. Then ate with the Anderson’s. It was pretty good. Taught a pretty good lesson. Then had volleyball an Austin was there which was great! Came home to plan and make calls.

Saturday – Today we had the usual breakfast with President Miller at Ryan’s. After that we took the Nelson’s and the Burbidge children and it went pretty well. Then we stayed there for the Clont’s daughter’s baptism which was good and interesting because we basically had a bit of dodge ball in the cultural hall with all the little kiddos. It was quite fun. Taught Alonzo which was really good because we hadn’t seen him for a while. He is going through some tough stuff. Had lunch and studies. Then went out and saw Angie and the Jamison boys. Ran from the car to different houses over and over in the rain. We got soaked but the process met the less active Marden’s. Then we taught Johnny with Brother Burbidge. Went pretty well and Brother Burbidge also took us to Chill, frozen yogurt place. During breakfast we got on the topic of homosexuals which led to President Miller telling us of a quote he heard. It was “Duck Dynasty” and he said, “a vagina is a lot more pleasing to look at than an anus.” It threw us off so bad.

Sunday – Today was such a great day at church. Brother and Sister Rowan both spoke and they were wonderful! I even took some notes! They are so awesome and I had forgot that Sister Rowan was a convert of about 4 years. We had Teressa there and another gator name Alonzo came as well. Ariel, Teressa’s daughter, is in Orlando going to Disney World. Johnny told us he would come to the other ward so we waited but he stood us up. Had lunch then taught Teressa at 2:30. Her and Sister Okwu were outside in Sister Okwu’s car just talking for 2 hours. It was awesome! Teressa had her water heater stop working so Brother & Sister Fisher stopped by and Brother Fisher fixed it. Brother Blum came with so we had a ton of members with her today. Taught the Jamison kids and Caitlin was there and we got to say Hi, and she is going through a lot. Walked home way fast to go eat at the Haines. They are so cool! Taught Andy and then Skyped his friend Brady. Andy seems to be pushing away baptism a lot. Just keeps doubting it. Our faith can’t dwindle! I love Andy!

Monday, 12/16/13 - Sunday, 12/22/13

Monday – P-day today! It wasn’t a very exciting P-day. We didn’t get to play basketball because stuff took too long. We did get to eat at the Thomas’ and shared a message with Sister Thomas. Unfortunately Brother Thomas wasn’t feeling well so he didn’t stay for the message. Then Brother Kriser came out with us to the Barbecho’s which fell through. But he came to see Mallory King with him. Mallory has always found something new to hold him back and this time it was not having a cemetery at every LDS chapel. He straight up just denies the enabling power of the Atonement as well. So sad! He is a less active member who is like 83 years old.

Tuesday – Today was our half mission conference and it was really fun! We had some messages by President Smith that were powerful. Then had people singing and playing different songs about Christ. We have some talented missionaries here in the FTM. Then had some lunch provided by the Stake. Sister McArthur from the Fox Run Ward was there so it was awesome to see her. The conference was actually in the Fox Run Chapel and that brought back some good memories. We also had a stocking exchange between all the missionaries. District Leaders were suppose to have a creative way to introduce their districts. Only 3 of them did something and 2 of them were from our zone and that was awesome! We helped clean up for a while after then headed back to eat with the Climer’s. That was fun. First time I have eaten with them. Went with Brother McKenzie after that to Johnny’s. That fell through so we ended up teaching Ben Barbecho about the Plan of Salvation a bit. That kind of confused him a bit but it was good. That finished the night.

Wednesday – Today we started off the day figuring out the exchanges for the transfer and when we would go on them. Got a call from the 2nd Ward Elders, they needed a ride home while their car was being worked on. Then we went to teach Jamie, but she pawned us off on Ben who was cleaning up the back yard a bit and throwing away the leaves. We were able to get him to come out to see Teressa and Ariel later. Went to see Tom Hughes who used to study with the missionaries. His ex-wife was LDS as well. He also had a quad set of scrips that I saw but he didn’t want us to come back. Then we went to see Austin which fell through. So we walked up to Brother White’s. In the process, ran into Caitlin who met the other Elders finally. She is going through a rough time right now. Taught Teressa and Ariel with Ben and it was perfect! Ben taught so well! Ate with the Bissen’s and Andy committed to talk to his brother. Food was awesome too! Had a little message with the Prazzo’s about Christ and the meaning of Christmas. Finished the night with coordination. Also talked a bit with Sister Edington, Brother Harter’s mom.

Thursday – Today we had to recreate the forms we use for weekly planning because our revised version sucked. Then had our lunch and weekly planning. We were actually able to finish our weekly planning in just one day this week. Then we went to the Woodring’s for a quick message. Robert has been having a hard time kicking the chew habit but he is trying to do it. Went to see Manny as well and he is planning on quitting his smoking which was great news! Read some of the Book of Mormon with him. He understands it so well. Hopefully it will get him to desire to change. Then we taught Bryan and Brother Wadas came out with us. He did a really good job too. He taught all about the restoration. The spirit was so strong! Bryan is very skeptical about our message though. He thinks that the Book of Mormon is just the Bible with different names. We read a verse from the Book of Mormon and he said that exact verse was in the Bible. It isn’t though because I checked. After that we went with Brother Wadas to give Brother Harter a blessing. That went great. Brother Wadas gave a powerful blessing. Then we met the assistants at our place for our exchange.

Friday – Today we had our exchange with the assistants. We blitzed our area as usual. I went with Elder McPhearson and Elder Evans went with Elder Wright. It was a really great day! Elder McPhearson and I were teaching all day. We found a new investigator named Shane and set up a time to see him in a week. Also taught Anna which was interesting. She was almost flirting with us or something. It was weird. She is a middle-aged woman and that has never happened with her. A lady also came out of the store near our apartment while we were walking by to give us one of the Bibles that we hand out. She found it at a yard sale. We also went to the Barbecho’s to see Jamie. Ben was leaving so we taught her outside for a while and raked the yard while teaching. Then we taught Ben when he got back. Ate and did the leadership exchange report. Elder Evans and I then went to drop off some cookies to a couple people. Brother McKenzie and his wife do it. We just ring the doorbell and run. Then Elder Evans and I ended up seeing Austin briefly before coming in.

Saturday – Today we had our meeting at Ryan’s with President Miller. Then we helped Brother Boyd move a couple logs. One was estimated at about 800 pounds and the other at about 600 pounds. It was pretty fun to do. Those logs had nothing on us. Then we stopped by the office at our apartments and picked up a ton of mail that has been sent to our old apartment. So it was a great mail day. Got packages from my dad then later some from my mom. I also got one from JC Penney that didn’t have a name so I don’t know who sent it. All day we had plan after plan fall through which was sad. We did get to go to Cracker Barrel to eat because we won a drawing for turning our miles in on time. Met a cool lady named Lesa, pronounced Lisa. She was really nice! She worked at Cracker Barrel and had been married to a member. She knew quite a bit. After that we went to Jamie’s to teach her even though she canceled. She is a hard one to figure out. Always cancels but says she wants to learn. Brother Boyd was there with us as well and we headed to Johnny’s with him ‘cause she said come back. Taught him a good lesson. Went back to Jamie’s and she blew us off again. She said tomorrow and that ended the night.  

Sunday – Today was good because we got Teressa and Ariel to church and Bryan also went to the 2^nd Ward. Then we had some less-actives there as well. Brother Haines came and the Steele’s and also Latrell Higgins came. Pretty great! Sacrament was interesting though. Kind of a boring one. The rest of church was good. We taught a member family named the Tatro’s with Brother Wanner. They hadn’t been able to come to church for awhile so we just wanted to check on them. That was good. They should be back soon. Then we ate with the Taylor’s and had some great bonding moments. Brother Taylor also told us a crazy story about a companion he had on his mission that went out and hired a prostitute! What an idiot! Then we went and made cookies at the Bissen’s and read Luke 2. Didn’t quite finish because we had to run to Teressa and Ariel’s. Taught them about the Plan of Salvation. Devon Brown came and it was powerful. A ton of members also gave us gifts for Christmas which was way cool!

Monday, 12/9/13 - Sunday, 12/15/13

Monday – Today was P-day and the day we find out about transfers for sure. President accidentally told us most of it the other day so we weren’t too surprised about it. We will both be staying. We are also getting a second set of Sisters to add to the Bailey’s, Sisters and us. Tons of missionaries here! Also played basketball with 2^nd Ward again which was really fun. I didn’t do as well but it was still a blast! Weird thing happened. We went to print out the transfer at our apartment clubhouse. The chick that cut my hair walked in to use the exercise room. I had to double take to figure out who she was. Ate a quick dinner after printing that out. Then headed over to teach Teressa and her daughter, Ariel. It was such a powerful lesson. The spirit was so strong! Had to teach out on the porch because we had no man but she was fine with that. Also had a lesson with the Anderson’s, the part-member family that recently moved in. Brian, the non-member, made a few sarcastic remarks during the lesson unfortunately, but we aren’t going to lose the faith! Elder Evans also pooped his pants today…ha ha!

Tuesday – Today we had our district activity which was good. The Bailey’s made breakfast as usual. Then we had District Meeting which was good. Got to take the District on a church tour which was good. Went home for a little companionship study and then headed to Jamie’s which fell through J. She rescheduled for tomorrow. So we handed out a Spanish BOM to a couple who we didn’t think spoke English. We thought a less active lived there but it was a non-member that fed Elder Winter and Elder Locken. We also figured out transfers and had a really good talk with Sister Tatro. She is a really awesome lady. Went to see a lady that lives next to Johnny and he was out working on something, so we stopped by to talk a bit. Stopped by to see the Thomas’ and teach Brother Thomas a bit. He might come to the Ward Christmas Party which would be awesome. They gave us some pie. Then ate at the Nimmo’s and got to discuss some of their reservations for not coming to church and I think that was really good.

Wednesday – Today our first plan was transfers so we all gathered at the Wendy’s and we ordered 41 #1 combos which is the usual. Then we helped the new Sisters take their bikes to their apartment and give them some phone numbers. Transfers was way smooth. We then were canceled on by Jamie so we went tracting with Elder Smith who is heading home and was with us for the time being. Met one really cook guy. Then we say Johnny later that day after the 2^nd transfer which was really small. Taught Angie as well which was good, but she is having some struggles especially with the pain from her 14 hernias. One is 15 cm around! Taught Caitlin as well. She is so prepared. We will have to hand her over to 2^nd Ward. Her mom has cancer and we had to leave because she had to run her to the hospital. Also go to teach the Prazzo’s which went really well. Got to know them really well. They’re really cool. Brother Prazzo was laughing so hard about lying to his wife about exercising his legs today. He struggles walking because he had a brain infection in the past. It was funny! Then we had coordination with our army of missionaries.

Thursday – Today we tried to weekly plan but a bunch of zone stuff got in the way but that is okay. We did get a little bit a weekly planning done. Went to teach a guy named Douglas but that fell through so we went to see Jamie with Brother Kriser. It went pretty well. Brother Kriser came in his police cruiser and he drove us like 100 feet in it. We were going to walk to Jamie’s but he came by and picked us up. So we got in the back which was interesting. Jamie was really confused too because he was in uniform so she was like, what the heck?  Also did some service for Ben and Jamie after our lesson. Had dinner with the Parker’s which is always fun. While eating we discussed ways to excite the ward. Taught the Woodring’s, first read with Devin and Daryl and then taught Robert and Maribel a lesson when they got home. Brother McKensie came to Johnny’s which fell through so we hopped in Brother McKensie’s car to see the Haines. Brother Haines wasn’t home but we did get to talk with Sister Haines and she really needed it. She is so cool. I decided I want to marry and islander from Fiji or Barbados or somewhere sweet! End of night!

Friday – Started off the day continuing our service with Donna. We never get as much done as we should because she doesn’t really plan anything out. But it was still pretty good and we got to talk a bit about Joseph Smith. Then we came home to try and finish our weekly planning. Still have more of it to do. Ate at the Cochran’s which was good. Had delicious Stromboli! After that we tried to see Johnny. That appointment fell through. So we went to see if Teressa and Ariel were home. They were so we shared a message with them. They have been prepared and are so ready for the gospel! They plan on church and on the Christmas party tomorrow. Then we went home to plan and make our calls to the zone. We didn’t have any more of the papers that we put all the names on each Friday so we had to make some really quick on the computer in our clubhouse. We were able to get that and all the names done somehow. It was an interesting night.

Saturday – Today we had our usual breakfast at Ryan’s with President Miller. Then we taught the Anderson’s. That actually went really well. Bryan has an interest in finding out if the church is true. We played with their dog who is named Tucker. Pretty sweet! He isn’t a beagle, he is some sort of mix. Then we went to find Alicia, formerly known as Alisha, Brian’s girlfriend. We found her and taught her a bit. We think she gave us a fake phone #. Then we ran into the Reynolds/Jamison kids and Caitlin. We also met their mom for the first time officially. They told us they’d see us at the Christmas party. We also hurried over to Johnny’s to remind him and he said he wants to come. Then he also told us something really funny. We were talking about the feeling one might have when meeting their spouse and Johnny said he never had that and then said sarcastically, “I had that when I met my mother-in-law.” It was so funny. After that we met Sister Okwu at Teressa and Ariel’s and she drove Ariel to the Christmas party. We got her, the Anderson’s, Jamison boys, Cailey, and Andy to it. It was really fun! That finished our night. Overall success of a party!

Sunday – Today was a great day! Had church and we had our Christmas program. We got sucked into singing in the choir and people said it sounded good. The program was pretty awesome. Andy came to church and so did the Anderson’s. Had a really good conversation with Andy after church. He is about to skyrocket! After church we taught Teressa and Ariel, read with them. Set a baptismal date which was exciting! They have a ton of faith! Teressa has such a sound understanding of the scriptures. Did our studies and what not then saw Austin and set up an appointment with him. Ate at the Cockrell’s which was delicious. They are really cool people. Then went to teach Andy. We had a really good lesson with him and he really seems sincere about baptism. I hope he really pushes for it! He is such an awesome guy and I really love him. I love all of the Bissen’s! Andy also told me I look a lot like his brother after Brother Burbidge was saying Andy and I look alike.

Monday, 12/2/13 - Sunday, 12/8/13

Monday – Today was a good P-day. Had some great emails from friends and family. Got some sweet sunglasses. Got a haircut by a girl that was really pretty and that was kind of strange. She was my age and I am pretty sure she was being flirtatious a bit. I stayed in great missionary mode though. I also had another confirmation from her that deep fried turkey is the way to go. Beat the 2^nd Ward Elders at basketball again. It is always a good time. Planned a bit for the Zone Conference call on Thursday. Then had dinner with Brother Burbidge and Landon because the rest of the family had places to go. Main thing I learned there was not to answer the phone on my honeymoon. Whatever it is can wait. Then took a detour to the Steele’s who want to come back to church. We are going to start studying with them to help them learn better and have more effective studies.

Tuesday – Today we had to go to Fort Walton to the 2^nd Ward District Meeting. Then had a great exchange with Elder Sorrell coming to Crestview with me and Elder Evans and Elder DeGroff stayed in Fort Walton. Came back to do service for the Lawrence’s and we ate MRE’s for lunch with Brother Lawrence. Cleaned up for them a bit as a thank you for all they did for us. Went home to do some training. Then we taught Brother Thomas and that was awesome! Sister Thomas bore some really strong testimony about the church. Ate a great bit of turkey pot pie at the Taylor’s. It was so good! I keep joking with Sister Taylor that when I get married that my wife has to learn how to cook from her. She said she’d teach her how to shop instead. Taught Johnny as well and he is doing well. I really feel he is going to start progressing! Then had a short lesson with Jamie. Her grandfather passed away but she seems to be doing okay. She said it hasn’t sunk in. Taught a bit about the spirit world. Elder Sorrell is a great new missionary. He is 24 and is a convert of 2 years and is dyslexic. Such a cool story!

Wednesday – Today we went to Fort Walton to trade back with the 2^nd Ward Elders. Then Elder Evans and I ate a quick lunch and then went to see Donna for some service and it was raining so hard for most of it. A guy named David was there and he knows a bit about our church. Seems kind of open to it. So we worked on Donna’s walkway. We have been prepping it for concrete. Hopefully we can get it all finished soon. Then we got changed and went on a split. Devin Brown and I went to see the Reynold’s Family which wasn’t as awesome as anticipated. It was good though. We got to introduce the Book of Mormon. Elder Evans went to Manny’s with Brother Wanner which they said was awesome. Had dinner and coordination with the Boyd’s and then we tried to see Ryan. Didn’t work so we prepped for our Zone Conference call.

Thursday – Today we had our Zone Conference call. It went really well. Talked about unity in our work and we really feel it will help. Also did some weekly planning but didn’t get to finish. Had to go out to see Austin and unfortunately he wasn’t home. We did get to see Josh and talk to him about a Family Home Evening. He wants to do one at his house some time. Then we met Brother Wanner at Manny’s for a lesson. Manny is so cool and I really feel like he is changing and opening up his heart to the restored gospel. Went over really quick to the Woodring’s which was fun. They are really funny. Wish they would get to church though. It has been a really long time. Had a good little lesson though and I think they will be back soon. Then went and had some pie with Johnny. He insisted so we had some and shared a message while eating some pie. Headed home after that to meet the assistants for our exchange with them.

Friday – Today we had our exchange with the assistants. Elder Wright went with me and Elder Rhoades went with Elder Evans. We did some good role plays before going out to teach. Then Elder Wright and I went out and had a very unexpected day. First headed to see Alonzo but while on the way Billy Ray called us over so we went in and shared a little message. He then proceeded to joke around a bit too physically. He punched Elder Wright in the shoulder and grabbed my collar and accidentally pinched my throat. Also met a guy named Clint who seemed really excited about our message. Alonzo wasn’t home. So we headed back and met a really nice lady named Mamie who lives right under us. Ran into JT who is Alonzo’s cousin and met Deacon Seal and John who were really nice. Came home to do the exchange report. Then we had an awesome dinner at the Wadas. They told us about how they want to stuff their dog when it dies. Really funny conversation! Then had volleyball and got to see the Nimmos there. Sam cracks me up! Plus he is way athletic. We plan to see them Tuesday.

Saturday – Today was kind of strange. We did a lot of our weekly planning that we didn’t finish. Then we got to see Austin briefly before going to the McKenzie’s to help them out with “doorbell ditching” some people and leaving behind cookies. Did it to a few members. Jamie Barbecho, Ben’s wife, called us asking if they were from us. It was good to do. It got people asking questions. Then we had dinner with the Miller’s. TJ brought two of his friends. Devon was one of them and while we were teaching he said he wanted to come to church. That was cool and I think he has a lot of potential. Then we saw Johnny briefly and taught him about how he is going to finally be able to get to church. He said he would try to. Hope he does. He always has an excuse. That’s about all that happened.

Sunday – Started off with Ward Council and told Brother Burbidge that his quote made our quote of the week. He told us when he got home from his mission and when he was dating that he “just kissed girls”. That made the quote of the week! Funny guy! Had church which was pretty good. I taught a very unprepared lesson. After church we went to see the Reynolds’ and met Caitlin their babysitter and taught her a bit and the kids, Austin, Ryan and Kaden. Played around with the kids a bit and invited them to the Christmas Devotional. Then taught Andy with Brother Taylor which went pretty well. Wasn’t as good as it could have been. Andy read the 1^st chapter in 1 Nephi and was telling me all about it. It was really cool! Also taught Jamie with Brother Taylor. Ben too! Gave Lilly a blessing and Jamie seems more sincere now, more than ever. Then the Taylor’s invited us to eat there which was awesome! We had some good quotes from them too. Brother Taylor said we need to just “talk to the ladies” when we get home. Sister Taylor then responded with “only the pretty ones”. Man it was funny! Went to the devotional! Caitlin and the boys were there! We took them on a tour as well. It was awesome. Then went to set up an appointment with Teressa.

Monday, 11/25/13 - Sunday, 12/1/13

Monday – Today was our P-day and we played basketball with the 2^nd Ward Elders. We won 2 out of the 3 games against them. Did our usual shopping and what not. Got some awesome birthday emails. I am very thankful for that. Ate dinner and then we planned for our zone training. That took up the remainder of our night. Got ready for our exchange tomorrow with the Destin Elders as well.

Tuesday – Today we headed to Niceville for our zone training which went pretty well. Could have gone better but we covered a lot of material. Unfortunately a couple missionaries didn’t really buy in to a couple ideas, but I guess not everyone will always agree. I am excited particularly to begin doing more church tours. After zone training we had an exchange with the Destin Elders. I went to Destin with Elder Miller and Elder Smith and Elder Evans went to Crestview. Such a weird exchange. Started off helping the Niceville Sisters move a bed to the Destin Sister’s apartment. Elder Mills was there with the transfer van. He is the senior missionary over cars and apartments. The reason why we helped was because Sister Rick will be going to Destin and Sister Doriswami is going back to the Temple Square Mission. Then Elder Mills gave us money so we ate at Firehouse with the Niceville Elders. They dropped us off and we studied and then had a dinner appointment. Delicious French toast and bacon. Then we basically did nothing. I kept trying to get something going but we ended up brain storming finding ideas. Weird day.

Wednesday – Today Elder Miller and I went to see a lady named Kelly Kelly. She left so we talked to her excommunicated husband about the anti she read. He still has a love for the church which is great. Interesting visit and exchange. Then my companion and Elder Smith picked us up and Elder Evans had got me Chick-fil-A for a late birthday gift. Awesome surprise! Headed back to our area. Got back late and went to do service for Donna. It was pretty cold but it was good. Went to contact a less-active that had moved. Then went to dinner at the Lawrence’s. That was awesome! They had a part member family that they are friends with over at their house. Then we went to coordination at the Boyd’s. It seems like kind of a waste of time cause we just talk about what is going on but it doesn’t seem like it is going anywhere after we discuss it. Then we went and taught Angie Davis about our Savior just to have a fun lesson with her. The headed home.

Thursday – Thanksgiving! Awesome day! Started off with a “turkey bowl” and we were able to get Austin there. He really seemed to have a good time. I jammed my finger on a dropped touchdown reception. It seemed like a good throw too. I don’t know what happened. I did have 3 touchdowns and about 5 receptions total. Dropped 2 touchdowns and also had like 1 rushing yard. Highlight was that I caught the game winning touchdown. Then right after I caught it Brother Burton tackled me. I held on though. It was just a light tackle because we were playing flag football. Ate at the Peterson’s and they had 2 non-member couples there and that was awesome! They didn’t want to learn more yet. The other couple left too quick before we shared our message, but the other wasn’t interested. Went to the Taylor’s for dessert and shared a message with them. Then we had to go home and start weekly planning. Then exchanged with the Crestview 2^nd Ward. Elder Evans went to Crestview 2^nd with Elder Elmer and I stayed in our areas with Elder Burnham.

Friday – Today was interesting for an exchange. Elder Burnham and I went to see Alonzo and that fell through unfortunately. So we went home so we could do Elder Burnham’s training and eat lunch. Then we had service with the Anderson’s who just moved in a few weeks ago. We built a fence with them. Weird thing is that the 2^nd Ward Elders were there so we really didn’t split up because we did service together. It was suppose to be a lot quicker than it was but it was pretty fun. We did have to go to Lowe’s with Brian Anderson and help him carry some supplies. Then we tried to see the Woodring’s but they weren’t home. So we knocked on a couple doors and then went to dinner at the Thatcher’s. Then we had volleyball right after dinner. The Blum’s were there so I got to meet Brother Blum’s sister who is also my 2^nd cousin. That was pretty fun and then we came home to make calls.

Saturday – Today we had our usual breakfast with President Miller at Ryan’s. Then we headed to the church for our studies because at 10:00 Olive had a baptism. So we also went to that for a girl named Jordan Linsy. Great service and great step for her. Then we went home for the rest of our studies and to finish our weekly planning. Then we went and stopped by to see Austin and invite him to church. Taught him a bit as well. He is a good kid. It is funny though that he gets distracted so easy. His mind wanders a lot. Also talked to Mike, a crazy guy, and found out Brian is in jail. Hopefully we can find Alisha. Taught Ben and he is way solid. Nothing to worry about there. Taught the Nimmo’s as well about church and they really want to come. Also read with them. Samantha also made delicious turkey and dumpling soup. Everything else fell through.

Sunday – Today was fast and testimony meeting. Good testimonies. Brother White’s might have been the best when he mentioned some Led Zeppelin lyrics in his. Then right before Priesthood he brought up Queen. Great guy! Had choir practice. Got drug into that again so I guess we are stuck. Went to teach Alonzo with Devon but he was gone so we taught his girlfriend, Tiffany. Wow! She can talk! Then we tried to see a couple others that fell through. Met an awesome bunch of kids where Joanna used to live and talked to their dad who we taught and he wants us to come back Wednesday. The kids also gave me a Pokemon card so that was awesome. Ate at the Lawrence’s for the last time before they move. Delicious as always. I will miss them and Emma. Taught Andy with Brother Wadas who related to Andy really well. I think he broke down a wall or two, maybe 3. Then taught Johnny with Brother Lawrence who was the bomb! He broke down one of Johnny’s concerns about Christ not being the son of God. It was sweet! Great day! Also ran in to Ryan Bielel and taught a quick message.

Monday, 11/18/13 - Sunday, 11/24/13

Monday – Good P-day today. Did the usual stuff that we always do. Also played some basketball with the 2^nd Ward Elders and tore them up! It was really fun and I realized how out of shape I am. I was so winded the whole time but it was worth it. After our basketball, we went to a huge shoe sale to see what they had there. They had some pretty nice ones, but the best ones went quick before we got there. After that we went to the Taylor’s for dinner which was great as always. They are such a great example of what a family should be like. I love going over there. Then we headed home to set some zone goals and plan for tomorrow. Before gong in we tried a few people but they just weren’t home or didn’t answer.

Tuesday – Today we started off at the Crestview District Meeting. I was really impressed with Elder Elmer and how awesome his District Meeting was. It was interactive and it was fun and I think everyone learned a lot. Most important though is that I feel like I felt the spirit the whole time. It was fantastic! Went home to eat a bit and to pack up for our trip to Tallahassee. We had a Mission Leadership Council (MLC) to go to. Before we left for that we went to see Jamie with Brother Fisher and shared a bit about the atonement with her. Didn’t get to share all we wanted to because she is going through a really hard time. Her grandfather is not doing too well and is looking like his cancer is going to take him. She was very stressed and emotional. Brother Fisher was also with us and shared some awesome experiences. Then we headed to Mariana to meet the Ozark Elders and Sisters there. We had to drive there and our Sisters followed us. We lost them but luckily they had a GPS as well. So we went with Elder Winter and Elder Call to Tallahassee. It was a fun car ride. Elder Winter and Elder Call are awesome. Got to the mission home after like 4 hours of driving and said hello to President and Sister Smith. Dinner wasn’t quite ready and we were down dressed (wearing normal clothes) so all the Elders went and played some “speed” at the church. That was fun and we then ate some burgers and hot dogs. After that we played some unity games with all the zone leaders and sister trainers. We had to build a boat out of a bunch of random stuff. We had a shower curtain, cardboard box, duct tape, paper and two plastic bins. That was all pretty fun. We also had a campfire and some testimonies born. Then we all went to different places to sleep. Elder Evans and I slept with the Tally 1^st Ward Elders. They were asleep when we got there so we just blew up our air mattresses and went to bed. President Smith also gave Elder Evans his shoes. Elder Evans told him he couldn’t take them and President left them in the driveway and walked inside. Told him (Elder Evans) that they’d just sit there.

 

Wednesday – Today we had our MLC first thing in the morning. It went from 9 am until about 3:30 pm. It was so awesome and the spirit was so strong during the whole thing. Took a ton of notes about all the stuff discussed and should have plenty to teach during zone training. Brother Hill and Brother Peterson were there from the Missionary Department and taught us a bit. Then we cleaned up and went to get supplies from the mission office. Waited forever for a bike rack. Then began our journey back to Mariana to pick up our car and head back to Crestview. Went to Johnny’s and we were going to share a message until Johnny’s daughter, Bella who has autism, decided to get in the toilet. So we ate fast at Taco Bell and then taught Angie. She is starting to do better. Then we went home to talk about and plan zone training. That was the end of that day.

Thursday – Today we first went to see Billy Ray and taught a bit. He ended up dropping us though. He wants to go back to his roots and be Baptist. Told us that we can call if we need some protection from him. Came home to eat and began our weekly planning. Had to pause that to go to Johnny’s at 5 and eat with him. He made us turkey and rice which was really good. We talked to him about testimony and he said that he felt a good feeling when he prayed to know if what we share is true. He said that he analyzes stuff too much though. So he has a testimony which is sweet! Then we went and taught Manny with Devon that just got home from his mission. Devon was awesome! Had to have been such a good missionary. He was in Ghana so that is way different then here. Then we went to see Daisy Wiggins. She told us to stop coming by. That was the first time I met her. Kinda rude. Then we finished weekly planning and did some zone training planning.

Friday – Holy 15 months out in the field but of course I’m not counting. Went to Donna’s today and it was kind of weird because she was in kind of a bad mood. She has been going through a hard time the past little bit. Did a bit of service there. Then we had to leave and go home to plan a bit for our zone training. Brother McKenzie came out with us to see Austin and we were able to share a little message with him and invite him to volleyball tonight. Also tried to see Brian and Alisha, not home but we went to see the Schofield’s, a part active/part member family. Talked to Sister Schofield about her less-active daughter and non-member husband. Then had coordination with Brother Boyd. Went well and then we headed to play some volleyball at the church. Austin did come to volleyball which was awesome! Then went home to make calls.

Saturday – Today we went to Ryan’s to go to breakfast with President Miller. Ryan’s decided they wanted to start opening at 8 am instead of 7:30 so President Miller took us to McDonald’s instead. Almost crapped my pants because I always knew McDonald’s was bad for you, but now they put the nutrition on their labels. Didn’t do much in the morning. Well just didn’t get to do anything because things fells through. We then headed to Bonifay, Florida, for an MLC with Elder Kopischke of the 1^st Quorum of the Seventy and Elder Munz of, I believe, the Sixth Quorum of the Seventy. That was awesome! They had a question and answer session. Spirit was strong! Then we headed back and taught Ben. He told us some sweet stories about Afghanistan and about what medical things he has to know how to do in case someone gets shot. Went to see Johnny and ended up teaching his stepson. Austin, and he prayed for us even though it was weird for him. Then we went with Brother Lawrence because Johnny fell through and we’re able to setup an appointment with the Nimmo’s and we invited them to church. Then ate at Wendy’s with the Lawrence’s. Awesome day!

Sunday – Today church was awesome! They brought out the big guns for my birthday. Justin Mozina from the 2^nd Ward spoke and Devon Brown from our ward. They both recently got home from missions in Africa. Then Devon’s mom, Sister Okwu, also spoke. They were all so good! I met Sister Burbidge’s parents which was cool because I recently found out they are related to me through the Grant line. We also ate at the Fisher’s and Devon and Sister Okwu were there so it was fun to talk to them. We then went out with Brother Climer and helped Sister Clonts move some work out equipment and look at one of her doors to see how we can fix it. Then we went and taught Glen Ashby, a less-active. Him and Brother Climer went off about Star Trek. They both love it. Glen is a great guy. Then the Bailey’s called and told us to come over to their place so we could have cake for my birthday. That was fun. Had a bunch of missionaries there. Did #’s and our zone exploded with 32 gators to Sacrament! Great week! 

Monday 11/11/13 - Sunday 11/17/13

Monday – Had an awesome start to our day.  We got to go to the Burbidge’s to email and they fed us as well. Got to email Elder Winter and rub that in a bit because Elder Winter and I were trying to get into their house for a while. It was fun, I found out that I am related to Sister Burbidge through the Jedediah Grant line and we are from the same line of Jedediah. After we got done there we headed to the Anderson’s, a family that was moving in. So we helped them move in. Killed our P-day, but hopefully something will be able to come out of it. They are a part member family and we heard that the husband is pretty interested. We then ate with the Thomas’ and got to teach Brother Thomas about dispensations, apostasy and Christ’s ministry. Johnny was sick so that fell through, but we got to teach Ben about the priesthood. He is intimated by the idea and doesn’t feel ready. He said he would prepare though. Then we had to buy a couple things because we never go to shop.

Tuesday – Today we went to the Fort Walton 1 District Meeting. Went well then had exchanges with the 1^st Ward Elders. I stayed in Fort Walton with Elder Anderson and Elder Evans stayed in our area with Elder Schuartz. Elder Anderson and I had a pretty good day. We had 2 member presents. One with Chyanne (yes that is how she spells it). We taught her the plan of salvation. She is very bubbly and has a very short attention span. She is cool though. Our other member present was with the Wall’s and they are an awesome family. Sister Wall=non-member knows the Bible so well and loves to learn. Both of the members that came out were awesome. Brother Kline had worked with Dr. J and a ton of other athletes. He talked a lot but Chyanne seemed to enjoy his stories. Then Brother Gilchrist came to the Wall’s and he knows a ton about history and can really connect it with the Bible. Had dinner with the Bodine’s and they are pretty cool people. Good food and their little boy is really cute. Before dinner we went by a less-active and Elder Anderson said we aren’t knocking as we got on the porch. So I looked in the window to see a chunky lady…naked…we left.

Wednesday – Today we traded back and then headed to the Spanish Elders place for an exchange. I went to their area with Elder Bravo and Elder MaClay. Elder Lopez went up to Crestview with my companion. Started the day off with some studies. Spanish Elders also have to do language study. Well anyone speaking a foreign language has that. Then we went out to teach and taught Hermana Smith, less active. She has some misunderstandings and was also using a Jehovah Witness Bible. Then we taught Hermana Gomez, another less active.  She said some really funny things. She said she was a really good preacher and then the wind blew and she said, “See God’s here. I made the wind blow.” Went and taught Joel who is a member, a bit less-active. Good guy though. Then we went to a fish place called Stewby’s and the owner is married to a member and paid for our food. Taught Raul Salazar about tithing and fast offerings. Then we had English classes and the Elders taught a bunch of Hispanics English. It was an interesting day because I don’t speak Spanish, but I bore my testimony a few times and Elder Bravo translated. One of the times with Joel he was able to understand my testimony.

Thursday – Today we traded back and headed back to eat at Applebee’s before service. We did service at Miss April’s. Got to whack down some trees with a hatchet and with a machete. Saw the inside of her house and wow, she really likes purple. Mostly everything is purple in there. Out of curiosity I looked to see if her silverware was purple and it wasn’t. Had a good time there, then we came home and showered. I got a cool looking scratch on my arm. Taught a less-active, Mallery King. Got into the nitty-gritty a bit trying to motivate him to quit smoking. He just wants to do it alone, which he can’t because Christ needs to help him. After all that is what he died for. Also taught another less-active or two actually. We taught Brother and Sister Parson about the foundation and testimony and they kind of went off about why they won’t come to church. Also had a really good dinner appointment with the Cochran’s. They made homemade pizza which was really good! They are a really awesome family. That sums up the day.

Friday – Had the day that we didn’t expect. Started off weekly planning and Donna ended up asking us to come by today. We had to go to Jamie’s at noon which fell through so we went to Donna’s to help her out and try to get the trench done. We have it most of the way done and now we need to just get the walkway done. Got to have a little lesson with her about God and him being our father. She really liked it. Came home to eat a bit and then go out to see the Roger’s. That fell through so we got to tract around the area. Did the family search approach and had some good conversations with people, but no appointments from it this time. Then we went to the church for volleyball and got to see the Nimmo’s, our investigators, which was awesome. It was really fun tonight. Saw the Iosefa’s there as well which was sweet! They are so awesome. Then we went home to get ready to call all our billion companionships in the zone.

Saturday – Today we had the usual breakfast with President Miller. That was good! Then we had studies in the Walmart parking lot which went pretty well. We taught Ben and Jamie Barbecho. Mostly taught Ben but we were able to share a bit with Jamie. She was around the house cleaning a lot. Went home and had lunch and weekly planned the rest of the week. Went and saw Angie and taught her while reading Helaman. Had a good time there and then headed to see a couple potentials. Didn’t work out so we had our member present with Johnny. Brother Ratcliff came with us. It was a good lesson. Johnny seems committed for baptism on the 7^th of December. He has a long way to go to be ready but really feels that he can and will get there. Unfortunately that is really all. Actually during lunch we made some recordings that ended up being really funny. I will have to figure out a way to get them home.

Sunday – Today was awesome. First off Johnny didn’t come to church…frustrating! Other than that Church was awesome. Austin gave his “farewell” talk which was good. Brother Taylor gave an amazing talk that blew my socks off! After church we had an awesome lesson. Went on splits and I went with Brother Climer and we taught Alonzo. Read with him and expounded upon them and helped him with understanding them. Brother Climer did a good job helping out and being my companion. Elder Evans helped Brother Taylor with some home teaching. Then ate with the Parker’s and tried to figure out how to excite the ward with their missionary work. Had a fun time there…Sisters were there…didn’t know that was going to happen. We aren’t supposed to eat with them. Went home and studied a bit and then finally got to teach Andy Bissen for the first time in a long time. It was a pretty good lesson. I think we really helped Andy strengthen his faith. Then taught Johnny and grilled him for not keeping commitments. Hopefully that will help.

Monday, 11/4/13 - Sunday, 11/10/13

Monday – Today was a long P-day. Had the usual and moved in a bit more or I should say unpacked. Got a haircut from a guy named Mack Brooks. He has his own little barbershop on Main Street here in Crestview. He is 83 years old. Don’t have an idea how he managed to not mess up because his hands were so shaky. Great guy. Haircut took forever and he told us some good stories and swore quite a bit. Told me if I play an instrument, I should do something no one else does. He said the banjo. Then shopped and played basketball with the 2^nd Ward Elders, Elder Elmer and Elder Burnham. That was fun. Elder Evans played well one armed. He hurt his arm last week going off a jump on his bike and crashing. He actually separated his shoulder, wasn’t his arm. Ate at the Lawrence’s tonight and had Family Home Evening as well. That was fun. We played blind man’s bluff which was sweet! Tried to see a couple people then went back to meet 2^nd Ward at our apartment. They had to use our dryer.

Tuesday – Today we went to the Niceville District Meeting and had an exchange with Elder Hawker coming to Crestview with me. Elder Evans went to Niceville with Elder Brewington. Elder Hawker and I had quite an eventful day. Went to see Jamie which didn’t work out so we saw Billy Ray. Got to teach him quite a bit. He opened up about his mom so we talked about eternal families, authority and baptisms for the dead. He is softening! Then went to see Ryan who fell through, but we went to see Austin and him and Elder Hawker had a handstand contest. If Austin won, Elder Hawker had to read a chapter of the Book of Mormon to him. If Elder Hawker won, Austin had to read a chapter before we see him next. Surprisingly, Austin went down quick and will have to read alone. We also went on a walk with and met a guy named Tom Crow who is friends with some members named the Tew’s. He also knows Angie Davis, the recent convert. Then we saw Josh and set up to do some electrical work in his Jeep tomorrow. Then taught Johnny with Brother Wadas. Brother Wadas taught a ton and really helped Johnny understand the scriptures and also tithing. After the lesson, Brother Lawrence came to Johnny’s and wanted to teach but we were finished. So we tried to see David with him which didn’t work out so he followed us to our “Joseph Smith: The Prophet” practice. We are doing that again which should be awesome. Gave Brother Lawrence a blessing and practiced a bit. That was all at the Bailey’s. Great exchange!

Wednesday – Today we traded back and headed home for some lunch. Went over to read with Angie because Jamie fell through. So we read with Angie a bit. She really loves reading the book of Mormon. After that, we went to Johnny’s and took him on a tour of the church. We all hopped in Johnny’s car and headed to the church. So hopefully Johnny will feel comfortable enough to go to church now. After that we had Manny, but for some reason I drove to Josh’s house and when we were almost there I realized it and turned back. It worked out because Manny wasn’t home but pulled up shortly after we got there. Taught him kind of an odd lesson. It felt really weird but he committed to read and pray. Funny story too, the Sisters tracted in to Manny and he really confused them which cracked me up a bit. After Manny, we had some of the coolest service I have ever done. We went over to Josh’s and started taking his Jeep apart with him. We just took off some of the body and the seats. He has a 1973 Jeep in red and he is looking to restore it. He also gave us food and we got to teach him a bit about the importance of reading. He said he would!

Thursday  – Today we went to see Jamie but she wasn’t home so we went to see a couple people that live near her. Tried to see a couple less actives. One said she didn’t speak English, the other wasn’t home. We did catch brother Prazzo, another less active. He had a brain infection around 7 years ago so he has a hard time remembering, but he is a really great guy and sees it as a blessing, the brain infection that is. Finally go to teach Jamie and it was good. We feel like we are building a strong relationship with her. After that we headed home to weekly plan. Then we headed to see the Rogers. Fell through so we went to see the Doman’s. That was weird. They think the Sabbath is on Saturday. We didn’t even bring up the Sabbath, they did. Then they got in a fight about the gift of tongues. Again, we didn’t bring that up. Miss Doman then asked if we had the gift of tongues and just to be kind of a smarty pants, I said “no, but our Spanish missionaries do”. Left there cause it was a bad vibe and we had coordination. Then went to the Joseph Smith: The Prophet practice. I am Joseph Smith this time which should be good.

Friday – We started the day going service for Donna. We got a lot of the trench done. We will finish most of it next time. She is an awesome lady with some strange beliefs but that’s okay. We had to finish our weekly planning after that. Finished that up just in time to go to the church right after. Also had a quick lunch before heading to the church for some volleyball. It was really run too. We got Austin there and he brought his friend. The Nimmo’s also came which was great and we all had a really good time. Highlight of the whole day way that the Iosefa’s from the Fox Run Ward were there because they were visiting the Lawrence’s. They are really good friends. It was good to see them and Brother Iosefa also told me that they found a medication that keeps his “suicide man’s disease” at bay. He still can’t play sports or work out because he can’t sweat. Awesome day!

Saturday – Started off going to breakfast with President Miller. Then we went to help some people move. One of them was Alonzo Wilkes. We were able to teach him and set up an appointment for tomorrow. After the move we had some lunch and studies. Then we went to see Angie Davis. Taught about Christ’s doctrine. She is learning and reading through the Book of Mormon fast! Then we went to try to see the Barbecho’s who weren’t home so we got to go over and see the Thomas’. Taught Brother Thomas a lesson about God’s nature and that the gospel blesses families. Then headed to see a lady named Michelle that Sister Thomas wanted us to go see. Very nice lady. They were getting ready to watch the LSU vs. Alabama game. She and the rest of her family are big ‘Bama fans. After that we headed over to the church to practice the Joseph Smith musical fireside/devotional. It was pretty fun. Got to laugh a lot with the other missionaries. We have awesome missionaries in this zone! It’s great!

Sunday – Today we had Ward Council Meeting which was fun and it went well. Then at church I met Brother Blum for the first time. He is my 2^nd cousin or something like that. His mom, Sylvia, was there too so I got to meet her. She is my mom’s cousin and that was awesome. They are great people. It was fun to get to know them a bit. After church we went to teach Alonzo, our new gator, with Brother Wadas. It was awesome. We set a BCD (baptism date) with him as well. After that we ate with President Morgan’s family. He is the Olive Branch President. That was fun. Got to talk and chat while he drove us to his house and back. When we got back, we tried to see the Barbecho’s and a couple others. After that we went to the church for the musical fireside. It was so awesome! I was so honored and it was cool to kinda be in Joseph Smith’s shoes. I really enjoyed this performance. It was fun to see all the other missionaries too.

Monday, 10/28/13 - Sunday, 11/3/13

Monday – Today was the day that we found out what was happening at transfer. Read the transfer email and found out Elder Winter will be going to Ozark to replace Elder Olsen, my trainer. He is going home after his 2 years. Gonna miss that tall guy, but I should see him again someday. After seeing that, I saw that Elder Evans will be coming to Crestview. I don’t know much about him though. Got done checking that and shopped and played some beach volleyball at the park with the 2nd Ward Elders. During volleyball, a girl fight broke out at the park. Tall black chick beat the crap out of chunky white chick. It was crazy and there was a terrible feeling after. Elder Chappel is going to be a zone leader in Tallahassee now and Elder Elmer will become the district leader here, which means it was our last time playing volleyball, well us 4 together. Ate with the Burton’s tonight and their wild kids. It was awesome! I love their kids! Then stopped by Johnny’s briefly for Elder Winter to say bye and then taught the Barbecho’s a bit. Then had to swing by Brother and Sister Lawrence to say bye to them and Emma. They are really awesome and we love going over there. Brother Lawrence does a lot for us too. Great P-day.

Tuesday – Had our District breakfast for our district activity. Then had a really good district meeting. Everyone bore their testimonies and it was powerful. Then we went to Donna’s to do service for her. It was good. Donna is such a nice lady. Always feeds us good healthy snacks. Also got to see a ton of people before Elder Winter leaves tomorrow. Saw the Thomas’, took a picture and then headed off. Ate with the Taylor’s which is always a good time! Saw the Woodring’s for a brief lesson. They gave Elder Winter a cool little mirror plaque. Taught Andy and had some great dessert there. Got food from the Cockrell’s, enchiladas! Briefly saw the Barbecho’s. Then headed to the Haines who gave Elder Winter a sweet rugby referee jersey and a mini replica Fijian war club. Sister Haines is from Fiji so they give them to missionaries when they leave.

Wednesday – Went to transfer spots first thing to pick up Elder Evans, my new companion. Stopped by Walmart to get some packing tape and some carpet cleaner for our apartment so that we can get ready to move Elder Winter. Took Elder Malmberg to see Angie Davis and say bye. Elder Evans and I went and dropped off a shovel at the Hansen’s and they want to feed us tomorrow and that works out really well. Dropped stuff off at home. Got autumn package from my mom. That was sweet! Got Elder Winter’s stuff in the car to go to transfers the second time then drive all the way one direction and then turn around and head back so there are two different transfer times in Crestview. Elder Evans and I then went to see a guy named Andy and ran into Ray and also another JC that was with him. He had a different JC with him last time we met him. Talked to Levi and some other people in the ghetto. That was interesting. Had some dinner that Sister Nelson brought over for us and that was pretty good. Also had coordination today. Also helped a southern lady put a bench in a school bus and another lady needed us to pull out some bushes. She gave us persimmon. It is really good.

Thursday – Today I woke up exhausted. I have been feeling pretty sick lately, but really felt it today. First thing we did today was get some family history stuff together for the Olive Sisters event up in Baker this weekend. Talked to Billy Ray on the phone for a while. Then we got to weekly planning which took a while being the first time as a companionship. We’ll have to finish tomorrow because we had to pack up due to our move tomorrow. We did get to see Levi today and ended up running into the 1st JC - drunk. Went to see the Roger’s and have to go back a different time because Mr. Rogers wasn’t there. So we dropped off a triple combo to Angie and then went to see Marisol. Taught her a bit and then ran into Brian and Alisha and are going to teach them tomorrow. Then we had to go in early because it is Halloween.  Good day!

Friday - Today started off rough. We’re supposed to move and had lots of help available, but the office didn’t tell us we couldn’t move until tomorrow.  The carpet guy wasn’t able to come yesterday so he came today. We did get to go over to Jamie’s and talk to her. Tried to teach but didn’t really get to. She expressed some concerns about how she didn’t like being pushed, so hopefully she won’t feel pushed with Elder Evans and I. Went to try to catch Brian and Alisha because Brian told us he’d wait for us for an hour. He wasn’t there. We had a slightly uncomfortable conversation with Sister Emily. She just stared at us. Went over and taught Chuck who talks a ton. He was pretty closed off reading the wrong books. Then we saw Manny briefly and set up a time to teach them. Next was the Nimmo’s and we had dinner which was good. She made homemade spaghetti sauce. It was great! Also set a BCD with them which was exciting! Great finish to the day.

Saturday – Today we had our meeting with President Miller first thing in the morning as usual. Then we got home to get ready to move. Had a ton a great help. Brother Golsen, Brother Cockran, Brother Climer, Brother Wing and Sister Wirt and her son, Nathan, all came to help. Took only about two hours to get everything moved over to the new place. Then we had to clean and get our food and a couple other odds and ends collected. Took up most of the day to get it all taken care of, but we still do have a ton of organizing to do. Went over to see Angie Davis and read with her. Then headed over to see Johnny with Brother Lawrence. A guy named Adam was there with Johnny so we got to teach them a little lesson. Adam wanted to come back another time to hear more with Johnny so we set up a time to come by. Then Brother Lawrence took Adam somewhere he needed to go. So I am sure that there was some good conversation. We headed home to eat and then plan.

Sunday – Today we were slightly late to church because we were trying to get a gator there. She wasn’t home. Church was good. I taught Gospel Principles. Lesson was decent. After church I accidentally ate lunch on Fast Sunday…oops! Had our studies and then went out to teach. We were about to try to find Alisha when a lady pulled up and wanted us to see a guy who was about to commit suicide, so we followed her there. No answer so we went to see Austin and read some of 3 Nephi 12 with him. Fun kid! Then we went to try to catch David who wasn’t home so we decided to stop by Steve’s. On the way met an awesome lady name Laura who loves genealogy and her daughter, Kandice McKosey, was recently baptized in Niceville. Then we set up an appointment with the Rix, a part member family. Ate at the Wyatt’s which was way fun. Then taught Ben Barbecho about the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He told us his conversion story and it was so powerful. Lesson was strong and so was the spirit. Then contacted Ryan Bielec and taught him about Sabbath behavior. He said he liked to fish in the morning so I bore strong testimony of keeping the day sacred. He will come to church he said! :) 

Monday, 10/21/13 - Sunday 10/27/13

Monday – Today was our P-day which was really fun.  We went back to doing our P-day volleyball at the park on the sand court. I played way bad but it was still way fun. I won one game with Elder Elmer on my team. I wrote some letters and some emails and we shopped. Then we had dinner with the Thatcher’s which was really awesome. We had great food and got to teach the kids about baptism and priesthood authority. That was fun. Did an object lesson where you put pepper in water and then put dish liquid on your finger and when you dip in your finger the pepper goes to the edge of the bowl. No idea how it works. Also saw Brother Burbidge at the park when playing volleyball. Saw the Woodring’s and taught about the temple. Brother Woodring really wants to go to the temple now! That was sweet to see. Then went home to figure out the new weekly zone goals.

Tuesday – Today was District Meeting and we went to the Fort Walton 1^st Ward. Elder Schwartz is the District Leader and he invited the spirit in really good. We then went on an exchange with him and Elder Anderson. I stayed in Fort Walton with Elder Schwartz and Elder Anderson went to Crestview with Elder Winter. Elder Schwartz and I had some lunch and then headed out to teach Billy and Reed who are two less active guys. Interesting guys that are into World of Warcraft and seem to play way too much. Then we taught a solid plan of salvation with a guy named Rick. He has so much truth! Set a baptismal date of November 30^th with him. Then we went to the Bodine’s for dinner with them and the Spanish Elders, Elder Bravo and MacClay. Good homemade Mexican food. Then we headed over to the Irwin’s and listened to them complain about “Utah Mormons”. They are a part member family. I don’t really see much of a different between LDS members in Utah or down here. Members come in every variety everywhere. Then we hustled to the church to do a baptismal interview. Elder Schwartz interviewed the Sister’s gator, Mark Harroway. Cool guy!  14 MONTHS!

Wednesday – After trading back we went to see Jamie and taught a little lesson on forgiveness. Unfortunately she was not in a very good mood so that made it less effective. Then had a two-second lunch before heading to do some service for Donna. We got there and ended up having to empty the drain rock and drain pipe out of the ditch because it had to be a bit deeper of a ditch. We did that and then had to re-work everything. Then we had an appointment with a really cool young man named Austin. Read from the Book of Mormon with him and he seems to like it. Then we headed to the Boyd’s for dinner and coordination. Brother Boyd is doing a pretty good job thus far as Ward Mission Leader. We need some ward missionaries now so we can get some members out to lessons. Then while we were heading to see Ryan we saw Angie outside of the Crestview Manor and realized it was our turn to go see her so we stopped and went and read with her. She is so excited to learn and hopefully she keeps on learning. She is going through a tough time and so a set of missionaries visits her almost every day.

Thursday – Today we started our day by going to see Marisol who is Brian’s mom. We stopped by to drop off some tape for boxes that she needed to pack up, then we went to the church to teach James. Reviewed the Restoration with him. He is really awesome and solid. Going to be fasting for him tonight and tomorrow. Jamie fell through so we headed home to do our weekly planning. Brother Fisher came and dropped off some food for us. The Fisher’s are pretty awesome. We talked to him and Brian (guy in our complex…likes to drink) for a minute before continuing weekly planning. Then we headed out to see Austin, a young 15 year old guy that we are teaching now, same one we saw yesterday. Really good kid. We talked about scary movies and stories for a bit then we had to leave right as we started sharing our message. Then we went up to see the Roger’s, but saw Sister Parker, the Bishop’s wife, out cleaning her yard so we helped and then met Matt, their daughter’s boyfriend. He isn’t a member, but Sister Parker was telling us that his parents give him way strict rules, so that makes her pretty happy. Then we ate a quick dinner and then went to the church to meet up with Johnny and show him around. He didn’t show up. So we got some treats from the event at the church, a communication devotional.

Friday – Went over to teach Brian and Alisha and to also get our duct tape from Marisol, which neither worked. We did get to teach Anna, Marisol’s sister-in-law, about how the gospel will help to bless her and bring her the things she needs. Then we tried to see a lady named Tiffany that fell through. So we went to see the old stake president, President Hill. He is less active now and we don’t know why. After that we met Sister Ohku at Jamie’s and that is exactly what Jamie needed. Sister Ohku bore some strong testimony. Folded Jamie’s laundry while teaching and also raked leaves with Connor and Lance, two of the Barbecho boys. Then we contacted an HQ referral named David and taught him. He has come a long way! Then we headed over to a part member family, the Smith’s. Then we had dinner and a lesson with the Nimmo’s who are awesome investigators. Their kids are really cool too! They play soccer which is sweet. Gots to love soccer!

 

Saturday – Today we went to breakfast with President Miller at Ryan’s. After breakfast we studied in the car in the Ryan’s parking lot. Then we headed to the Barbecho’s to see Ben and Jamie. Taught them a really good lesson and got to answer some great questions that Ben had. After that we headed home to have lunch and studies and to also finish up some of our weekly planning. Just needed to make a progress record because we didn’t have time yesterday or Thursday. Then we headed out to try to see Brian but he was nowhere to be found so we walked around to find Anna or Marisol or someone. No luck so we went and read with Angie Davis. Talked to her about her conversion and about her surgery coming up. She has two hernias. Then we went to a Halloween thing downtown but decided it wasn’t a great idea so we left. Not a great atmosphere to talk about the gospel. Then had the Ward dinner/trunk-or-treat. Success! Andy was there and so were the Nimmo’s which was awesome. After, we had a lesson with Johnny. Brother Climer came and Brother Lawrence wanted to tag along too. Both of them were involved and it was such a powerful lesson.

Sunday – Great Sabbath day today! Church was really good. In Sacrament, the Kirby’s spoke and so did Elder Winter all about missionary work. Spirit was really strong and even was during the other classes. Had our studies and lunch and then went to see if Ryan or Taressa were home, but they weren’t. So we headed over and were able to catch Brian and Alisha out washing a car. Anna was out there as well so we taught her a bit. Then we were called over by a group of people to come talk to them. Pretty sketchy people and weird experience. Then we went to the Parker’s to eat with Bishop and his family. Had a steak the size of my head and a baked potato the size of both of my fists! Also had a delicious brownie! Then got pictures with Angie before heading to the Bissen’s with Bishop to teach Andy. Lesson went well. Our new thing is to get a ton of members to Andy and hope that will help him. I really love that guy and hope he can figure it out and know this is true.

Monday 10/14/13 - Sunday 10/20/13

Monday – Today was a great P-day!  We started off the day with our Spec-Ops secret trip that other people would call fishing. President allowed us to go because we were going with Elder Bailey who is one of the senior missionaries. Fun trip! I had never really fished before and didn’t realize how easy it is to do. We also went with the 2^nd Ward Elders and Elder Elmer caught the biggest one! They were just garbage fish that we threw back, but it was still a really fun trip. We all caught some too, which made it even more fun. Came back to email quickly and then ate at the Thomas’ which is always good. Brother Thomas watched some of Conference too, which was fantastic. He did say he watched a heck of a lot more football. Stopped by the Nimmo’s and got to teach them a lesson about prayer and one of their kids said the prayer for us and that was awesome! Then we taught Johnny a review of the restoration lesson. Then we came home to plan.

Tuesday – Today we went to the Niceville District Meeting. Elder Hawker did a pretty good job. He is a really awesome missionary. Then we went on an exchange and Elder Brewington came to Crestview with me and Elder Winter stayed in Niceville with Elder Hawker. Elder Brewington and I had a good day. We got a call from Billy Ray and he wanted us to come by and teach him. He told us some interesting stories that I can’t even repeat. Went to the Taylor’s because Brother Taylor wasn’t feeling well, so we went to give him a blessing. Talked about Miss April a bit. She watched President Monson’s talk from Conference. That is sweet! Then we went to see a referral who wasn’t home so we talked to and gave a BoM and a prayer to a really nice lady. She said she would read it and asked us to say a prayer for her. Then saw a referral, the Boening’s, who basically told us not to come back. Ate with the Bissen’s and found out Andy wants his old Branch President from Japan to baptize him, which might push things back. He is doing great. Then finished the night with coordination. Brother Boyd will be a good Ward Mission Leader.

Wednesday – Traded back after our exchange and had some lunch. Then we went out to try to find Brian and Alisha. Ran into his mom, Marisol, and his aunt, Anna. He is apparently in pretty big trouble. Taught Angie Davis, the recent convert, and man I was tired. Read with her a bit. Tried to contact a guy name Andy and met a ton of awesome people that said we could come back. Met Zay and JC that want to come to volleyball. Went and had a great dinner with the Lawrence’s. Went way too long. I hate being disobedient. Hopefully, we can get our appointment time down. Had a great lesson with Andy. He wants to be baptized by his old branch president so that will push the baptism back. Then had a little lesson with Johnny. Brother Lawrence came out with us to both of those, which was awesome.

Thursday – Today we taught James Purcell a good lesson. Went over the baptismal interview questions. Also taught about service. He is so prepared so I hope his mom will let him get baptized! Then we went through our weekly planning. That went pretty well. Had to go and get some supplies from the office Elders. Met them at a gas station to do that. Taught Becca Sanchez, Manny was on the phone so we just got to teach Becca, but that was great. Got some boxes from the Climer’s for our move. They are a celestial family. We also taught Brother Thomas a lesson. A quick one before we headed to Danny and Lewis’ for a lesson and Danny fed us pizza! They are so solid! We also drew some pictures with Danny’s daughters. That finished our awesome night. Also, while talking with Sister Thomas, I realized how blessed we really are in the USA. Her grandson is on a mission in Ghana. Has no running water, no beds, not very many cars…that would be a challenging mission.

Friday – Today we started off the day going to see Donna with Austin Boyd for some service. Got a lot done for her French drain. After we left, we did realize that we forgot to put the protective sock over the PVC pipe. Went and saw Johnny to set up with him for tomorrow. Taught Jamie while playing some soccer with her son Lance. Then we went to see Billy Ray and while driving there saw Brian and Alisha, so we hopped out and set up church with them. Saw Billy Ray and he wants to come to church too! So that is exciting! Billy Ray says some crazy things! Ate with sister Okum who is Sister Thomas’ daughter and she told us her and her son Devan’s conversion stories. Devan is the one in Ghana and cool thing is that he was actually converted first. Then we headed to the church for some volleyball for fellowship night. We all played pretty well.

Saturday – It’s always a good day when you start off with a baptism. It was the Olive Sisters that got a baptism, we went to support. It was for a young guy name Josh King. After the baptism, we went over to Elder and Sister Bailey’s place to do a little bit of coordination with the Sisters and the Bailey’s. We felt like it could have been done over a phone call, but gotta just do it. Had some lunch over there as well, which was pretty good. Then we went out to see Brian and Alisha, but we didn’t find them so we went to Chuck’s, but they were gone, so we talked to a couple random people about family history work while we were walking home. Also talked to Anna for a moment. Went and contacted the Scholtz who the Burbidge’s told us to go see. Their wife/mom was sick so we didn’t get to teach them, but they did say to come back. Taught Brother Steele and one of his kids named Alie who is 7 years old. Wish they would come to church, they don’t seem to have issues with it. Ate with the Hansen’s and Sister Stapleton, which was a very quiet dinner. After dinner we headed off to see Johnny and he was drinking coffee. We reminded him he shouldn’t and he dumped it. Taught him about scripture study a lot! Just reviewed some old lessons with him. After Johnny, we headed over to see the Barbecho’s and taught Ben. Jamie didn’t sit in, but she said she would come to church tomorrow. We ended up just reading the Book of Mormon with Ben and that finished the day for us.

Sunday – Today is my dad’s birthday and I forgot to send him a letter or card last week. We had church but none of our gators were able to make it. Billy Ray got sick, Brian and Alisha weren’t there when Elder Bailey and I went to pick them up and Johnny just didn’t come. Church was good but kind of empty. Everyone was gone for some reason. There were only four Elders in Elders Quorum. After our church and studies, we went to contact Ryan Bielel who was referred to us by the 2nd Ward Elders. Ryan wasn’t home but his neighbor came out and told us to knock on a different one. She was crazy but we knocked and met a nice lady named Teresa. We were able to give her a Book of Mormon and put away a lot of false things she had heard. Tried to contact David but ended up talking to some people on the street because he wasn’t home. Ate with the Wirt’s and talked about horses for like 45 minutes. We just wanted a subject change so bad. Then we taught Andy and told him to stop worrying about what his family thinks. I shared Frederick William Hurst’s story and vision with him. Told him that his family will eventually accept his decision even if it is in the next life. I hope that will all help because I love Andy and Sister Bissen!