Here it is!

Monday was transfer day. Sometimes missionaries go out and sometimes they come in. Since Skylar's companion went home he got a new one.....change is good!

Here we go.....

Mom writes:

Hey Buddy it's mom....

Dad's sick so I'm in charge......yay me.....

He's been sick since Christmas day....I've really had all the fun I could possibly have! He's been trying to pass a kidney stone all day....so I feel bad for him.....but ya....

Grandma is in the hospital again....they're not sure what the deal is. They got her hydrated and stuff. Pa said she had a really good day today. She just can't kick whatever is wrong.

Let's see what else. Today was Chaz's farewell. He leaves for West Virginia next week.....
Jordan Woodard got his call. Calgary Canada. Brrr......you think YOU'RE cold! I'll get you his address when I have it.

I still have your box. Since you don't need anything I guess I'll just mail it. Anything you want I should put in it???

I'm attaching some pics of the store. I hope it's ok....there's nothing bad in them so I hope you don't get in trouble for looking at them.

K - I'm not the religious one so I hope you're not in need of some grand insight. I'm more of a spiritual kind of girl. ooooowwwmmmmm.......

Any adventures to report?

The weather? We're back to shorts here! neener! and you?????

Well you're in a hurry and I'm pretty boring...

Let us know what's up.

We love you.....well...THEY do, I don't.....and don't let anyone tell you different!

Mommasitarosaritarefreidbeans

Skylar replies:

hey mom. You are a "religious" one and i hope that your undies always remind you that you are first and formost a "religious" one.
I am doing great.
I hope grama gets better. i just got a package from her. it went to salem... it had a picture of a girl.. will you find out why?? is this a hookup? or a project?? someone who is trying to write me?? if so i need some info... Member, less-actictive, recent convert, investigator, potential investigator. I need to know this kind of ting...
I am now with elder graham. The first com (companion) i have that i know!! he served near me before we are so excited to be comps. he has a ukalaly.There is alot of good work going on here. it is still raining all the time and it is 50 outside. wich is warm to me now. hahah. oh missions. Love you!!!


Kasey writes:

hi skylar its kasey i loved the pics i even got tearey eyed when i saw tham well love u alot miss u

Skylar replies:

love you munchkin!!!

hey whats green and has 4 wheels??? (bummer, now she has to wait a week for the punchline!)

Onnie writes:

Hoooooorrrraaaayyyyyy! An email from the best missionary ever...

Hello Elder Nephew!

How are you doing? Anything exciting happening? I hope you are doing well and feeling well too.

Things here are pretty good. It's been a week and weekend with some trials for us. Grandma is in the hospital again. Poor Grandma! She is having the hardest time. She has a really bad infection, so be sure to remember her in your prayers. We have some things going on on the Slades side of the family as well, AND I have two ladies I visit teach who have just had surgery--oh my, it's been crazy! Scott and the kids are well, and we are trooping along!

So a few weeks ago, I sent you a list of questions, and since I didn't hear from you, I decided to copy and paste them here, plus a few extra:

Did Elder Harris go home? YEs I am with elder graham now. hes from texas.
Do you have a new area now?nope i stayed put
What time do you have to get up on p-day? 615 like everyday. pday starts at 10 and ends at 6
Do your mission rules allow you to take a nap ever? yes on pday and at lunch
What is your favorite day of the week? P-Day!!!!
What did you eat for breakfast today? BANANA!!!!TRIX!!!OJ!!!
How many people are you teaching now?2
Where do you do your laundry?the appartment. we have a washer and dryer.
Who is your favorite person in the ward to visit? The shaws or the zellers. i would merry their daughters just to get into the familys haha
Plans for P-day today? ommmmm.not realy just getting things situated with the new comp!
Do you need or want anything?nope i think i am all good> But i will keep you posted.

Okay, now for a quote. Hey, don't worry about memorizing all of these--I send them to you so that you can think on them, or print them if you like them. Just read them and be edified! Go easy on yourself, Elder. The Lord doesn't want you to sweat the small stuff, He wants you to worry about what is really important in your mission--and I'd venture to say that memorizing the quotes your crazy aunt sends you is not high on His list. Just sayin....

“An Apostle is a missionary, bearing testimony of the reality and the divinity of Jesus Christ in all the world.”

—Elder David A. Bednar

Happiness in Family LifeLearn how the teachings of Jesus Christ provide a foundation for happy families.

Love ya!
Onnie

Very Cool!!!

Just got this from the OPM (Oregon Portland Mission) Mission Office.

http://oregonportlandmission.com/

Check it out....it will be hard to tell you which pictures we found Skylar in.

Go to the main page. Click on Christmas Party. Then the picture that is at the top of the post....it's just a room full of missionaries. But if you look to the right side....and then scooch down pretty much in the middle ...it's a side view....do you see him??? It's kinda like playing "Where's Waldo"....

I tried to save and post but they were really grainy. You'll just have to hunt him down......here's what the thumbnails look like...so at least you'll know which ones to click on.

I'd check it often. Sounds like they'll be adding stuff ....

Flat Kasey

What? Flat who? Flat Stanley is a book character. He gets "flattened" by a billboard and then goes on adventures! Totally random! Anywho... Kasey's class project was to send Flat Kasey on an adventure. We sent her to Portland! Here's what Skylar sent home.

Just in case you can't read the letter it says:


Hey! I had a lot of fun with Flat Kasey in Portland. She stayed at the apt. with me. Then we went and volunteered at a Russian Food Bank. (Skylar says he's in a very Russian populated area) We had fun sorting pineapples. Then we took the light rail downtown to the Lloyd Center. We went ice skating. Some of these pictures are of me and her. And some others are with another Missionary named Elder Swarenson. I hope Flat Kasey has a good time wherever she goes!

Sincerely,
Elder White

Update

January 17, 2011

Dad writes: (Skylar replies)


Hi, what's going on this week? NOTHING MUCH JUST THE USUAL AND AN EXCHANGE WITH ONE OF MY FRIENDS THATS GOING HOME.
Do you still have your Pday, even thou it is MLK day or do you change days so that you can be out while there are more people at home? NO THE LIBRARY WAS JUST CLOSED SO I COULDENT EMAIL. WE PLAYED NERF FOR PDAY AT THE CHURCH. NO INJURIES BUT LOTS OF PAIN. WE USED THE GUNS AND SWORDS.
It is getting really nice here the temps. Are back in the 70s and I'm looking forward to summer already. I had the stomach flu this week and am glad to have
It behind me. (no pun intended) How have you been are you all healed up from the burns?YA IM ALL GOOD NOW. JUST A LIGHT SCAR.
How are the teeth doing any problems after the root canal?IM ALL GOOD FROM THAT AS WELL
We got some pics from your service project at the Deroest, and Kasey brought home her flat Kasey pics. (School project like Flat Stanley, I'll post pics soon...so funny!)
You look good and I'm sure that you are being blessed for you service>
Kasey liked the post card and the pics and the class loved to hear what was going on in the Portland area.
Kasey was the Student of the month and that was cool too.
Chaz went thru the temple on Thursday, Joe and Cody were called as ward missionaries and Bryson Payne was Baptized. I think that keeps you up to date on ward happenings.

How is the new area panning out? have you had any new prospects this week? NO I THINK THAT WE HQVE EXAUSTED ALL THE POTENTIALS AND ITS BACK TO LONG WET DAYS OF DOOR KNOCKING. THE 75 DAY RAIN IS APROACHING.
How is it going with you 2 investigators. THEY ARE PROGRESSING GOOD. ONE IS GETTING BAPTIZED ON FEB 5.
I think I am goin to start a thought journal, for talks and lessons. I know that I am inspired at the time and then I forget as the day and weeks go on.
We had a lesson on the sacrament also and It's great that we can start fresh each week, and grow in the lords ways.
Any animal sightings, I saw a road runner the other day but that's not that unusual.
Is there any thing that you need? UM... NOT YET. I HAVE HAD A GOOD SELF SUSTAINING MONTH. WITH NO FINATIAL ISSUES.. KNOCK ON WOOD. HAHAH
Did you get snow or did it pass you by. WE GOT FREZZING RAIN AN ICE. BUT NO SNOW. ITS WEIRD. ITS 55 AND I AM IN JUST MY SHIRT. IT WARMED UP ALLOT THOUGH.
What is your favorite food right now? RICE.. I EAT IT EVERY DAY. HAHA
If you could do 1 thing what would it be? SLEEP!!!!! HAHAJK. PLAY A SHOW.. AND SING ON STAGE..I AM GOING TO BE GETTING LESSONS ON P-DAY FROM A MEMBER. HE IS A PROFFESIONAL SINGER. IT IS MY DREAM TO BE ABLE TO SING MY OWN SONGS. ME AND BO TOGETHER.. HE STILL WANTS TO ROCK OUT WITH ME. I HOPE MY ETERMAL COMP. LIKES MUSIC.. OH LOOK UP KURTIS KNIGHT ON YOU TUBE. HE IS A ORGON PLAYER. HE BUILT IT IN HIS HOUSE. IT PHYSICALY PART OF IT. HE LIVES IN OUR WARD AND HE SHOWED US IT/..
Hope all is going well this week, love you
Dad LOVE YOU BYE!!


Onnie writes:

Hellloooo Elder White,

We didn't hear from you last week. Hmmmmmm...I guess we won't hold it against you. You must be REALLY busy if you can't type your favorite aunt! Right??

I hope things are going well and that you had a great week. It's warming up here again--about the 70's, which makes me so happy. And my kids too. They were sick of the cool weather and not being able to run around outside as much.

Well, I won't bother you with more questions--I'll just wait for your answers to last weeks questions. But here is a quote for the week:

Even though our journey may be fraught with tribulation, the destination is truly glorious.”
—Elder Quentin L. Cook

Love you and be a good missionary!
Onnie

Skylar replies:

Sorry there is alot going on in the area that i need to talk to pres about and i only have 1 hr on the computer. but my comp goes home in one week.
I am most likly training when he goes..
It has not stoped raining for 5 days. or let up in the slightest degree.
But everything is going good and i am working hard, the things that scott told me are really helping. I feel like i am on the right track. Tell him thank you for me!!\
I love you Guys!!!! ps. i am doing terrible at memorizing the quotes..... but i have almost half of my patriartical blessing down!!!

Member mail

Got this email from a member in Skylar's new ward. Thought I'd pass it along!

January 14, 2011

We so appreciate all the hard work, and service your son has given. Thank you for raising such a fine young man.

Sincerely, Lorna DeRoest

She attached these pics.....

I wrote back and asked her a few questions..... she responds:


Cheri,
My husband and I had the misfortune of having our water line break two weeks before Christmas, so we were without water for a little over a week. He couldn't locate the break, so we called in assistance to replace the 400 feet plus, but due to complications they were only able to drill half the distance, so the other half was dug up by hand, then had to be filled in again. Lots of fun. Can't complain however, we are so very blessed to live in this country, and enjoy clean running water 99% of the time.
We had the elders over last night for dinner, and like always enjoy the wonderful spirit they share with us in our home. It makes us miss our children all the more, but grateful for the valiant men and women that carry on doing the Lords work.

Lorna

email

January 10, 2011

Kasey writes:


hi skylar how are you doing .

i cant wait to see the flat kasey.

the song piggy bank on that cd is my favorite.

miss u

love u bubba


Skylar replies:


I love you!!! make sure that you read from that BOM stories every night!! ok!!!
Im glad that you like the CD!! i will have to take you to see him when i get home!!

LOVE YOU!!

Dad writes: (Skylar replies)

Well how was the first week of the new year?IT WAS REALY GOOD. I GOT A CALL ON SATURDAY NIGHT AND WAS TOLD TO SPEAK IN CHURCH FOR 15 MINUETS. I PRAPARED AND WHEN IT WAS TIME TO GO UP I GOT A NOTE SAYING TO GO FOR 30!! BANG BANG!! (THAT WAS ME SHOOTING MYSELF IN THE HEAD!!) WE ALSO GOT 2 NEW INVESTIGATORS!!
Did you have a good Sunday? YES I DID. I STARTED TAKEING A JOURNAL TO WRITE DOWN MY THOUGHTS. IT WAS REALY GOOD. I ALSO STARTED TO FEEL DIFFERENT ABOUT SACRAMENT. IT FEELS LIKE THE SAVING ORDINANCE THAT IT IS. WHEN WE SING THE HYMN AND BLESS THE BREAD AND WATER THE CHAPEL HAS STARTED TO FEEL LIKE THE TEMPLE!!
How is the work going, are you finding anyone to listen to the message? WE GOT 2 THIS WEEK!!
I talked to Bo's mom last night at a meeting and she said that he had been robbed this week, He had just taken his money out for the whole month
And someone was watching him and the took it all, she wasn't sure if they took his back pack, camera, and scriptures. She was up beat and said it was all part of the
Experience. Hope it doesn't change his faith in people and the love that the savior has for each of his children, even when they are not making the choices that they should.
I know this brings me great comfort and has throughout my life.
what's going on there anything new? HARIS IS SUPER TRUNKY!! I NEED A YOUNGER COMPANION NEXT TIME. HE GOES HOME IN 2 WEEKS AND HE IS ALREADY PACKED!! I We are all doing well here and are looking forward to the new year.
Is there anything that you need Mom has a Box started and we will get it sent out this week but we could add to it if there some thing that you could use>
Thomas ( side note: this is a friend from our old ward...he's in London) comes home on the 16th, Wow that was fast, but 7 months down, it seems like it's flying by.
How are things with the companion going, are you guys seeing things as one yet? NO BUT AT THIS POINT I CAN WAIT IT OUT FOR 2 WEEKS.
What's up with your weather, I can't tell by watching the weather here, It looks rainy one time and clear the next, Maybe that's just what's happening.
We have been cool he but it is going to warm up here this week.IT IS GOING TO SNOW THIS WEEK.. BURRRRR AND ITS GETTING CLOSSER TO THE WINTER 74 DAYS OF RAIN STRAIT.
I charged your iPod and all looks good. kylee is trying to find were the other music is stored to back it up. IF YOU CALL UP DANJEE HE CAN SHOW YOU THE WEBSITE TO GET IT BACKED UP. AND YOU CAN THROW IT ON THE TERRA DRIVE. BUT IF ANYTHING DOSENT FEEL RIGHT THAN I WOULD SAY DONT DO IT AND JUST KEEP IT SAFE SOMEWHERE.
Mom and I are meeting with a distributor today to get Down East in the store and we've ordered a few other lines that should be here in a month.
I think things will start to go when more people know we are open.
How are you doing with you prospects are they still moving in the right direction? WE HAVE A BAPTISM THIS WEEK BUT ITS JUST FOR RECORD PURPOSES SO IT DOSENT FEEL AS COOL.
What do you have Planed for Pday, how was Portland last week?WE ARE GOING TO THE GOODWILL. AND PLAYING SETELER OF CATAN AND POOHEAD. HAVE YOU GUYS PLAYED IT YET. ITS LIKE MY FAVORITE GAME!! LAST WEEK WE WENT TO THE MALL AND I GOT A BRITISH FLAG AND A TDWP SHIRT FOR PDAYS!! AND A FEW COLONGES THAT WERE ON SUPER SALE!! I GOT LIKE 4 BOTTLES FOR 5 BUCKS A PIECE!! GOOD CHRISTMAS. FOR 50 BUCKS
We are in Luke and I'm liking it so far. What is your favorite book in the New Testament?THE GOSPELS BY FAR!!I LOVE TO COMPARE THEM AND GET SOME GOOD DOCTRINE. LIKE HOW JOHN HAD THE ARRONIC PRIESTHOOD. BUT RIGHT NOW FOR STUDY I AM JUST READING THE BOM. (Book of Mormon) I AM GOING TO SEE HOW MANY TIMES I CAN READ IT BEFORE MY YEAR MARK!
Well keep me up to date on the latest and have a great week I'll talk to you soon.
Love you keep up the good work
Dad

LOVE YOU!!

Pics!

Oreo Cereal? Breakfast or lunch??? hmmm....perhaps both?
Maybe he's just too lazy to dunk each one???
I can hear him proclaim as he's breaking up the cookies...
"Sacrament Style!"




You know that picture of Joseph Smith translating the Book of Mormon??? Strike me down but this angle in sepia reminds me of that.....(stop rolling your eyes at me!)


Not sure where this is...members or investigators....when I find out I'll post it.



Where shall we go today Elder?
These are the blow darts that they use to......



....decide where they'll go! The orange lines outline their area....It's pretty big!

I see that Skylar eats the same way there as he did at home!

Some things never change!

Food groups represented are:

Meat group - chicken nuggies

Dairy - cheese stick

Vegetable - ketchup (which is from a tomato so it counts)

Fruits - 2 fruits!! lemons AND limes (Mt. Dew)

We're pretty sure this is Titus. Skylar's first baptism.

Bridge across time. Just a cool place to be I guess.

Can you read this? It's pretty small.....

They leave one of these shirts on the table after a teaching or dinner appointment....with a message on the back.....no faces though.....

Videos

k - I think I got the videos to work....enjoy!

Happy New Year!

I really need to get better at posting.....sorry!
Grab a snack and have a seat. This is gonna be LONG!!!!!

Here we go!

January 3, 2011

Dad writes: (Skylar replies)

Waz up, no mail for the dad last week, I can't believe it. Do you see the tears.
How was your week, and your New years?YA WE PLAYED GAMES AT THE CHURCH.. IT WAS FUN. WE PLAYED SARDIENS. ITS LIKE HIDE AND SEEK BUT BACKWARDS. WE HAVE AN OLD BUILDING SO THERE ARE ALLOT OF PLACES TO HIDE.
Do you have any Goals for the new year or something that you didn't do last year.YES!! TO WORK HARDER AND MAKE SURE THAT I DO NOT WASTE A SECOND OF MY MISSION.. THAT IS A REAL STRUGGLE THAT I HAVE.. I KEEP HAVING THOSE NIGHTMARES THAT MY MISSION IS OVER. THEY SCARE ME ALLOT. SO THATS WHAT I THINK THEY MEAN
I think I'm going to try to get in better shape this year and read my scriptures more regularly. I KNOW THAT YOU WILL BE BLESSED!!
We just started the new testiment but I think I'm going to reread the book of Mormon. THATS THE WAY TO GO... PRESIDENT PACER ONCE SAID TO A 70 WHO ASKED HIM ABOUT THE ATONEMENT. HE SAID"READ THE BOM AS MANY TIMES AS YOU CAN IN THE NEXT 6 MONTHS AND WRITE A PAGE ESSAY ABOUT THE ATONEMENT""THEN YOU WILL UNDERSTAND"
It was freezing here last week and we had snow flakes in Mesa, snow in Globe and the Superstitions. YA I GOT SNOWED ON. IT IS 27 TODAY. I HATE MY LIFE. THERMAL GARMET BOTTEMS WOULD BE SWEET!!
How are things go with Elder Harris? WE ARE GETTING DONE WITH EACHOTHER. WE WORK GOOD. BUT HES VERY.. "THIS IS THE WAY I LIKE IT DONE SO THIS IS HOW ITS GOING TO BE"
Do you have any prospects? YES 2. ONE OF THEM WE MET AT DINNER. SHE IS THE BIO-MOM OF 2 KIDS IN THE WARD WHOS FOSTER PARENTS ARE MEMBERS. SHE ASKED US WHAT SHE NEEDED TO BECOME A MEMBER.. I WAS STOKED!! THE OTHER IS A MEXICAN.. HE SAID THAT HE REALY LIKES WHAT WE SAID AT THE DOOR.
How is the weather there it looked dry but cold. 27 AND RAINY. CLAR TODAY THOUGH..
Moms happy we stay at 11:00 for church this year and that's good for our family. YA OURS IS THEN TOO. BUT I AM STILL UP AT 615 AND AT THE CHURCH BY 9 FOR MEETINGS
It is going to be a good year I just Know it.
I'm glad to be done with 2010, it was a trying year.
How are you doing on Snacks, anything you need us to send you. SNACKS ARE GOOD. I GOT LIKE 12 CRISTMAS COOKIE PLATES.


What is going on in your new ward. Do they have a good Scouting program? IDK.. WE DONT GET INVOLVED WITH SCOUTS.. BUT A SISTER HAD AN ASMA ATACK IN SACRAMENT. ME AND MY COMP LOOKED AT EACHOTHER AND BOTH GOT UP AND GAVE HER A BLESSING THAT SHE WOULD BE OK UNTIL THE AMBULENCE GOT THERE. SHE DIDDENT LOOK TO GOOD. BUT I GUESS THAT SHE IS STABLE NOW
I found you a couple of wide ties that I think you'll like, I'll get them in the next box we send out. SWEET!! THANKS
what's around you, any cool sights. YA WE ARE GOING DOWNTOWN TODAY TO SEE THE SIGHTS WITH FLAT KASEY.
Are there any new animal sightings. NO NOTHIG COOL UP HERE
Any new scriptures to share, that might have touched you. UM.. THE CHASTENETH HIM WHO HE LOVETH.. HEBREWS 10:2 OR 3ISH
Your Mom still wants pics,and make sure you send your stocking home so Santa can fill it next year. WILL DO. I AM ALSO SENDING HOME A GIFT I GOT FROM A DEPARTING MISSIONARY. HE SAID NOT TO LOOK AT IT UNTIL I GO HOME.. SO IM SENDING IT THERE.. SO JUST PUT THE BOX WITH THE REST OF MY STUFF AND I WILL HAVE A 21ST BIRTHDAY PRESENT WAITING. HAHHA
What does your new place look like is it nicer than your last. UM I DONT THINKS SO. BUT I WILL SEND YOU A VIDIO
Is your companion trunky yet, does he have plans for after his mission?YA HE IS DONE.. I HOPE I GET SOMEONE YOUNGER NEXT TIME. HE JUST IS GOING TO WORK ON THE RANCH.
You said your talking to Bo, is he doing well? HES DOING OK. IT SOUNDS LIKE HES STILL WORKING ON THINGS. BUT HE SOUNDS GOOD.
How is flat Kasey going? Is there a dead line for getting them back to class? I AM TAKING SOME PICS TODAY AND SSHE WILL BE IN THE MAIL TOMORO
We are all doing well here and it will be better when the store starts showing a prophet.YA I THINK THE STORE WOULD BE BETTER IF PRESIDENT MONSEN WENT IN THERE. (BUT I THINK YOU MENT "PROFIT") HAHA.
Is there anything that you need? Let us know JUST THERMAL GARMETS. THANK YOU. OH AND MY STICKERS FOR ME AND SOME FOR BO.. THATS A BIG ADRESS TO WRITE EVERY TIME. ALSO ADRESS LIST OF PEOPLE IN THE FAM. I NEED GRAMA PAT. AUNT PAT. ALL OUR U-TARDS.. AND STUFF.
Have a good week love you and I'll talk to you soon.
Love Dad
LOVE YOU!! LET ME KNOW HOW THE DUCKS DO IN THE BCS BOUL!! GO DUCKS!!

Skylar then apologizes for no letter......

I dident see an email from you so i figured that you guys were satisfied by the phone call. hahah.

Onnie writes: (Skylar replies)

Hello You!

How are you doing? Are you staying warm and dry? It looks like it's been cold, cold, cold there. It's be really chilly here too. Globe got about 6 inches of snow! And it froze hard at our house. Plus lots of rain for AZ. I'm not liking it much!

We had a pretty good week. I hurt my back and had to spend a few days recovering, then we had a big New Years party with the Slade's. It was fun, and I'm glad that it's done now. Kelsey is back to school today and Casen is back to preschool tomorrow--hallelujah!! Scott had a quiet few weeks, which is nice for us around the holidays.

I've attached some info for you here. I don't know if you will want a paper copy of it or not, so I'll print it and put it in the mail too. It's just some things that might help you out a bit.

Okay a few questions for you!!!

How was New Years, did you do anything fun?WE PLAYED GAMES AT THE CHURCH WITH SOME OTHER MISSIONARIES
How are things going with your comp? THEY ARE GOING GOOD BUT WE ARE HAVING ONE OF THE DOWN TIMES RIGHT NOW.
Any goals for 2011? WORK!! WORK!! WORK!!
What is your new apartment like? IT IS NICER. GOOD HEATER!!
Are you still riding a bike? --What happens when the weather is bad--do you walk instead?wE RIDE ALL THE TIME
What will you do for p-day today? DOWNTOWN PORTLAND!!
Okay, now a quote for you:
"Our understanding of and faith in the Atonement of Jesus Christ will provide strength and capacity needed for a successful life."
~Richard G. Scott

Have a great week! We love you!
Onnie

email

December 27, 2010

Onnie writes: (Skylar replies) (and Dad's mad cuz we got nuthin"!)

HI!

It was so good to talk to you on Christmas. You sounded so good and so mature and grown-up! We are glad to know that you are doing well and that you seems very happy on your mission. We know that you are doing what the Lord would have you do--hooray for Skylar!

We had a very good, but very busy Christmas. It was fun to be a your house and visit with everyone. My favorite part of the day was talking to you. The kids had a great time and ended up being up until about 12 midnight that night--whew looooonggggggg day. This week is put-our-house-back=together-after-Christmas-week. And we have a Slade family party for New Years. We are hosting it at our house. I think it will be fun!!!

Well, now some questions:

How is life with the new companion?IT IS GREAT.. WE DONT GET ALONG EPECIALY GREAT BUT WE ARE BOTH OBEDIANT AND THAT MAKES IT EASY TO WORK WITH HIM!
What did you do on Christmas day?WE HAD A BIG TONGAN DINNER THAT HAD ME FULL THROUGH SUNDAY.
What was your favorite Christmas gift? MY TIES!!! MOM AND DAD SENT ME A BUNCK OF POLIES!!
What did you eat for Christmas dinner?THE TONGAN FOOD. AND CAKE AND PIES AND ICECREAM
What are the mission rules for New Years? Any plans? IN THE APT. BY DARK. IN BEN BY 10:30PM.

We love you and pray for you every day. Hang on and be faithful--the Lord loves you!!! Let us know if you need anything at all.

Love,
Onnie

Here is your quote for this week:

"I...know that when we try in faith to walk in obedience to the requests of the priesthood, the Lord opens the way, even when there appears to be no way.
I give you my testimony that the happiness of the Latter-day Saints, the peace of the Latter-day Saints, the progress of the Latter-day Saints, the prosperity of the Latter-day Saints, and the eternal salvation and exaltation of this people lie in walking in obedience to the counsels of the priesthood of God."
~Gordon B Hinckley
***I highly recommend the article this quote came from it's June 1995 Liahona "If You Be Willing and Obedient"--Search for it at LDS.org

Then Skylar writes:

Love you guys!! thanks so much for all that you do. especialy for christmas!! everything was great!!

Update

December 20, 2010

Dad writes: (Skylar replies)

How is the new area? new areas busy.. theres lots of work..
How is the new companion? funny. hes a farmer.. and let me be the best i can..
Are you doing ok? um the last place i want to be is home.. i am so not ready to go back to the real world yet.mm. ya.. just stressed and having a small trunkyish confused stage..


I forgot to put a calling card in the boxes we sent you so , can you run and buy one?
What's the new place like, is it still on a bike or are you in a car now. IT HAS LOTS OF HILLS
Are you getting packages from uncle Vaughn, he just wants to know your getting them, you should let me know each week so that it will be posted in the blog so
Every one knows that your getting the things they are sending.
How is the weather up there right now it's been a little cloudy here.ITS SNOWING MORE AND MORE.. BUT THE COAT HOLDS UP.. TELL FUTURE MISSIONARIES. COLOMBIA IS THE ONLY THING THAT WORKS..
Do you know what the plan is for Christmas yet?JUST PHONE CALLS.. AND DINNER.. BUT THATS IT.
Who is the bishop in your new ward. BISIOP KELLY. I NEED TO BUILD HIS TRUST BEFORE WE ASK FOR REFERALS THOUGH.
Are you closer to the temple, how far away from you old area are you. WE USED TO BE AN HOUR AWAY BUT NOW WE ARE ABOUT 30 MINUETS.
What is around were you are, is the new gift cards that you could use. UMM. THERE REALY ISENT ANYTHING..IM SORRY...
Take lots of pics, what is the area like lots of trees, mountains, Big city-give me the run down.
Are you eating well? YES.. I DONT EVEN WANT TO KNOW HOW MUCH I AM GAINING...
Has the work picked up and are you feeling the spirit? I AM WORKING ON FEELING THE SPIRIT AND THE WORK IS BOOMING
I'm glad that, you will be getting girl mail again, but lets stay focused.haahaa CAN DO.. HAHA
We sent out three boxes this weekend so I hope they all make it there, just keep your eyes out for them. I WILL
Do you have any prospects yet, or follow ups from elder Harris. NO I DONT EVEN KNOW HOW BIG OUR TEACHING BOOK IS, I JUST GOT A PLANNER..
Give me the run down on Elder Harris, Where is he from , hobbies, so on and so on. HE IS FROM GRACE IDAHO. HE LIVED ON A RANCH AND THATS ALL HE DID.. HAHAH. AND HES OBEDIANT.. HUGHE PLUS
Well I'm going to send this so that I don't miss you,
I'll write more, and send it.

Love you, have a great week
Dad

(then Dad sends another email)

So what else is going on? UMM. FUNNY STORY. I LIVE NEXT TO A STRIP CLUB.. ITS WEIRD.. BUT I LOVE PORTLAND. WE HAVE A COOL WARD.. BUT EVERYTHING IS ON A HILL AND I AM SO WET AND COLD.. WE ARE TEACHING ALOT THOUGH WICH IS A GOOD THING. I AM IN THE MIDDLE OF TRYING TO REFOCUS MYSELF.. I KEEP HAVING THESE NIGHTMARES THAT I AM BACK AT HOME AND I HAVENT LEARED EVERYTHING I WANTED TO YET. ITS BEEN HAPPENING FOR ABOUT A WEEK NOW..
Have you ajusted to the change yet or are you still getting in the groove? STILL GETTING INTO IT.. I AM JUST A MENTAL MESS RIGHT NOW.
have you made any new freinds there yet? NOT YET.. BUT I LIKE THE DISTRICT.. THEY ARE A DEFFINETLY A DIFFERENT BREED ON MISSIONARY. SO I WAS LOOKING THROUGH MY CLOSET AND FOUND A SUIT THAT FITS. SOME NICE TIES..


any cool members that you've ran into yet?YA A FEW.. I AM WORKING ON REBUILDING THE WARDS TRUST. THEY ARE STILL GETING OVER A BAD TASTE FROM SOME BAD ELDERS THAT THEY HAD..
Did you get to bring the banana boat? YES... I HATE IT WITH FIARY PASSION... BUT IT DOES THE JOB..
how are snacks holding up? do you need more?I HAVE NO SNACKS.. CHEEZITS AND OREOS ARE CHOICE.. AND BOXES OF CEREAL.. HAHAH
Is there anything you need.UMM. NOT REALY.. BUT MY MISSION CARD IS HAVING PROBLEMS.. IT LIKES TO JUST STOP WORKING AT TIMES. IDK WHATS UP.. I GUESS THE LORD SEES FIT TO TRY ME IN ALL THINGS.
Are you getting, lots of boxes? UM.. I GOT A FUNNY ONE FROM ONNIE.. AND I GOT SOME AT THE CHRISTMAS PARTY.. BUT NOT REALY YET.. I WILL SEE THOUGH.
Who writes regularly? SUZIE SULLIVEN..............AND ONNIE AND SCOTT
I know lots of ? but I just trying to keep up.
Well Hope you have a good week and a Merry Christmas, let me know when you will be able to call and I'll get everyone here. Will be gr8 to hear you voice
and get caught up. hope you are doing well and I'll try to be around when you email today to send a quick warning that you on and I'll keep checking.
Love ya buddy, Dad
LOVE YOU!!!!

(some of the email got overlapped so the only thing new in there was about the package that Skylar sent home.....)

He says:

like i said before...izz not mauch... but izz a somfing..... and the wallet and shirt is for kylee and kaseys cd has a flower card inside that she can plant. and you and dads is obvious.. the other stuff is for the family..

December 20, 2010

Onnie writes:

I love this kid...

Hi Nephew! Countdown to Christmas! Woo Hoo. I hope you've been good... :) We put your gift in the mail so when you get a little box from us this week be sure to put it under your tree for Saturday! I hope you are doing well, and that you are feeling well too.

Some questions:

How's life with the new companion? it is good. he is obediant and hard working.. (but i could use a motivational obediance and dilligence shpeal from a RM hint hint....your hubby)
How many scriptures do you have memorized now? 125 BAYYYYYBYYYYYY
Did you get our pre-Christmas package? haha yes. it was funny.. and i actualy use the purse.. and the bottle of perfume was sprayed on ever missionary in my district..

(k Onnie has absolutely no clue what Skylar is talking about. There was a Betty Boop purse with purfume in it. It wasn't from anybody at her house......absolutely NO CLUE how it got in the box! Weird right????)

What did you eat this morning for breakfast? cereal!!!!
Do you wear two pairs of socks everyday to keep your feet warm? no just thermals.. They Rock!!!!
What will you do on Christmas day? call home.. and then work
What is your Christmas wish this year? to have the streanth to be 100% obediant and to find the true joy in the work.
Okay, completely random question. Scott is sitting next to me and wants to know if you are growing chest hair (apparently he did on his mission)? yesss!!! odly enough... funny he should ask.. and its inconvinent.. dang puberty..

We are so excited to talk to you on Christmas day and we hope you know that we love you and miss you. Being away from home at the holidays can be so hard, but just know that you are EXACTLY where you need to be. And the blessings you (and your family) are receiving will be far greater than you can even imagine--way better than eating pasta salad and opening presents with us here in AZ :). I have said this before, but I feel prompted to tell you again that Scott's faithful service as a missionary in Venezuela blesses our family each and every day--even 14 years later. Amazing. The Lord loves us so much that He will continue to bless us for our service long after the deeds have been done. We are so lucky.

Keep up the good work. Love you!LOVE YOU ALL> MERRY CHRISTMAS!!
Onnie

A Christmas quote for you:
"We who have heard the glorious message of the coming of the Son of God, we who have taken upon us His name and have covenanted to walk in His path as His disciples—we must not fail to open our hearts and minds and truly see Him. The Christmas season is wonderful in many ways. It is a season of charitable acts of kindness and brotherly love. It is a season of being more reflective about our own lives and about the many blessings that are ours. It is a season of forgiving and being forgiven. It is a season to enjoy the music and lights, parties and presents. But the glitter of the season should never dim our sight and prevent us from truly seeing the Prince of Peace in His majesty."
~Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Transfer!

December 14, 2010

Dad writes: (Skylar replies)

Well give me the news, Did you get transferred? yes i did... to the mt. scott ward with elder harris... this is his last 6 weeks... i only fet old farts for companions... i am glad to be with someone who is ready to work though.. i am no longer a greeny now..and i am stoked to be in portland!! so last week in church a girl found out that i was leaving... she was all broken up... and her mom is on the ward council and told me at the ward council dinner that her daughter had a crush on me.. oh geeze.... shes cute... and cool.... so shes writing me now.. i just thought id throw in that little bit.. i wil be here in mount scott ward for a while so mail can flow freely.. i will be sending a box home for christmas as well. nothing too special but just a little somthing..
I know that if you did (get transferred)you might not get this today but its like a Monday thing now to sit and type out a letter. ya i am emailing late because of transfers... but it will go back to mondays. but at 10 am.. so write me on sunday..ahaha. and now i have to do it at the library so i only have 1 hr. to get it all done.. so we should probably utilize snail mail.
So you know that I'm a creature of habit so here we are. How was your week?hahaha. hectic.. packing.. visits. and we had 2 elders move in with us the week befor i left.. it is so packed in there.. they came and they came with music.... and dvd players.. and PSPs... it was no bueno... president alweys puts two elders like that together... and they just babysit eachother until they go home.. its sad.. but you now.... and dont tell kasey but for christmas i got her the new never shout never CD.. i found it at a used music store for 5 bucks so i thouhght that that would be cool... just calling dibs on that gift in case anyone else thought of it.. i love being a missionary.. you get to do whatever you want...
Are you having a good mish so far with 6 months down it flying by. ya its way sweet to be working again.. for the last 3 weeks we litteraly did nothing.. all he wanted to do was christmas shop.. so thats all we did... the bisiop to told me that he hoped that they would get another hard worker and if not he would be calling president.. i blushed.. i miss my greeny area...:( i loved it there and they loved me. i got a pretty big turnout at my trasfer meeting of people to see me off...
Looks like your in for a wet week, rain every day, I guess that the clean air will do you good. Its dry and dusty and we are getting our brown cloud. ya itsway wet.... and cold....
what's new on the companion, is all going well or are we up to our same old tricks.nope hes gone..
Micheal Gibson comes home on your moms BDay, the 17th its hard to belive that that was 2 years but it was.GEEZE that makes me feel old ahhaa
Joe maldonado had his Eagle court of honor, what an eagles den we are getting, pretty soon there won't be room for all those soft seats.
How are things going with your prospects, are they able to feel the Holy Ghost. i dont know yet hahah
We have been learning of him and how important it is to invite him in. I guess that I could do better at that myself.
Anything new on your Christmas list? We will get a box in the mail as soon as we know about the transfer and if there will be a change in address or will it stay the same. um... not realy.. i think i will have everything i need.. i am going to het some dickies work pants today.. they look nice and are machine washable!! big plus..
We just put up the tree on Saturday, what slackers we are, but Kasey is happy that we got it up.we had one in the apt.. we decorated it with pass along cards...
I think that this year it came so fast that I just can't seem to get going with it.
We had the Nativity, but its the birth of the Savior how could it be bad? hahah good point..
Have you heard from Brother Hawkins, or is he still sleeping now that he is home. he is a slacker!!!! he is getting maried in febuary i dident tell me crap about it.. i wrote him a letter to reprimand him hahah.
Mom said to trade cameras with your companion for a day and send her the pics with you in them and then trade back. ok i will do that
She might feel like she isn't getting her weekly alotment of Skylar pics. You Know your mom.
I can't wait to hear about the new area and the new companion, Kind of envious.
Maybe they will put you on a horse, in the remote outback parts of the state.
Might just be me but sounds kind of fun. no i just ride the iron horse... the big yellow iron horse..... i call it the liahona.. it runs of the spirit and only works when i am obediant...
What do think you will be doing on Christmas day? IDK yet...
What classes do you go to on Sunday, do you teach any of the lessons. i taught las week.. the tacher dident show.. the mission has definitly taught me to tach on the spot..
Chad was set apart yesterday, and is now an elder, I can't belive how fast all the kids in the ward are growing up. Chad??? do you man CHaz!!
Well I better let you get on with your day.

Love you. Have a great week LOVE YOU!!!!

Skylar writes:

oh i just remember one.. Protine.. i am out of protine.. vanilla it choise.. strawberry is ok.. and if all they got is chokolottee..uuuu...just dont worry about it hahah and i will call you soonish so that you have the # for christmas... what num should i call.. and dont forget to do all the silly stuff in the letters before so that we dont waste time.

Onnie writes: (Skylar replies)

Hey--I hope I have not missed you today. I'm having internet issues and finally just took over Scott's computer to email you. How are things? I hope you are doing well and staying warm and dry. We pray for your success and happiness daily!

Things here have been hectic. Both Grandma and Pa had surgeries last week--your mom and dad were such troopers to help them out. Grandma will have to have another surgery soon to reconstruct her bladder and surrounding areas, and Pa had his kidney stone blasted and removed. While they were inside his bladder they found a tumor which they think was cancer. They removed it and will have more info for us tomorrow at his appt. Pray lots!

We are doing fine. Things are very busy as we get ready for the holidays and wrapping up soccer season.

A few questions for you:

How are you feeling? Good Now that i had Transfers!!! i am in the mt. scott ward.. in portland...
How's the borrowed bike? i call it the liahona.. it runs of the spirit... and it only works when i am obediant..
What is your plan for Christmas? IDK yet i will find out on sunday.. my new comp is a total cowboy.. elder harris is his name.. and he goes home in 6 weeks.. i am killing another one..
How are things with your companion? good.. its not even been 24 hours yet.
Any Christmas requests? ummm.... not realy.. i dont even know what i want.... but food is always nice...haha
If you could meet any one person from the Old Testament, who would it be? umm. Adam.. there is a ritious man if ive ever seen one.. and from the looks of the video hes pretty ripped buff and studly.. but the first profet needs to be..


well sory to be short.. i am on a hour time constraint..

Okay--a quote for you to think on:
"The Holy Ghost does not become operative in our lives merely because hands are place on our heads and those four important words are spoken [--"receive the Holy Ghost"]. As we receive this ordinance, each of us accepts a sacred and ongoing responsibility to desire, to seek, to work and to so live that we indeed 'receive the Holy Ghost' and it's attendant spiritual gifts."
~David A Bednar

We love you! Keep on keeping on and remember we are praying fore you and for all you come in contact with. We are so proud of you and we know that Heavenly Father loves you and appreciates your service.

Love,
Onnie

Mommy mail

December 12, 2010

Mom writes:

Hey buddy,

k - I'm a slacker of a mom....Dad's had to step up and do everything around here......even write to you.

Just wanted to say that I'm really really really going to send off a box this week......Auntie Cathy has treats for you so I gotta do it before they get all yucky.

Dad will give you the same ol' same ol' questionnaire.....but I just wanted to say that I love you....

k - going to bed.....

Mommasitarosaritarefriedbeans

Skylar replies:

LOVE YOU MOM!!!

Email!

December 6, 2010

Dad writes: (Skylar replies)

i got on like half an hour ago and there was no letter!!!! i was about to log off. hahah i will read it right now!!


How was your week, are you feeling better? YA IM BACK ON MY FEET.. I HAD A NICE TIME TO SIT AND PLAY GUITAR.. THE PRESIDENT AUTHORIZED IT THOUGH SO ITS OK. HAHA. IT SAVED ME. IM LIKE DAD.. I CANT BE KEPT INSIDE FOR 3 DAYS LIKE THAT.
Is it still as cold or has it warmed up a little? NO IT JUST GETTS COLDER AND COLDER
We are a bit warmer here, and this whole week it's in the mid 70s.I HATE YOU
Any word on transferees yet? NA I WILL KNOW ON SAT. BUT PRES MAKES IT SOUND LIKE IM OUT OF HERE.. IVE BEEN IN SALEM FOR 6 MONTHS NOW GEEZE.BUT I REACH MY 6ER ON THE 9TH!!!! PARTY TIME.. (THATS A LANDMARK FOR MISSIONARIES..IT IS THE COMMING OF AGE FOR A GREENY TO BE ONE NO MORE!! AND IS 25% DONE WITH THE MISH...ITS NICE TO HAVE TIME UMDER THE BELT HAHA)
How are you doing on $ do you need me to put some in for you this week? I THINK I AM GOOD BUT I HAVE NOT CECKED. I AM TRYING NOT TO SPEND ANY MONEY UNLESS I ABSOLUTLY HAVE TOO. BUT I DID BUY ELDER BEAN SONE COUGH MEDICINE LAST WEEK. HE NEEDED IT BAD AND SAID THAT HE WAS NOT GOING TO PAY FOR IT. ITS LIKE 3 BUCKS!! I GOT IT FOR HIM SO THAT I COULD SLEEP HAHA/
Mom has the store about ready to open and this should be the week for that. SWEET SHE NEEDS TO GET IT GOING STRONG SO THAT I DONT NEED TO LOOK FOR A JOB WHEN I GET HOME HAHAH
How is the work going this week, any new prospects? NO WE HAVE BEEN ON HOUSE AREST BY THE NURSE ALL WEEK.. LAME!!! I DIDENT COME HERE TO SIT INSIDE ALL DAY!!!
Any good stories?UM.. WE GOT A SWEET BMW RIDE!! AND THE MEMBER TOLD US THAT IF WE WANT HE IS HAPPY TO GIVE US 30% OFF ON A USED ONE WHEN WE GET OFF THE MISH. THEY ARE NICE CARS. HE REALLY SOLD ME ON GETTING ONE EVENTUALY.. BUT I WILL PROBABLY JUST DRIVE A CIVIC WHEN I GET BACK...BECAUSE IN REALITY.. THEY ARE CHEEP.. AND I JUST KNOW THAT KYLEE IS GOIING TO TOTAL THE CAR.. HAHAH. NOT IN A BIG WERCK.. BUT LITTLE BY LITTLE...SOB SOB. POOR CAR NEVER HAD A CHANCE.. AHHAAHA
Both Pa and Grandma had surgery this week. The blew up Pa's kidney stone and while they we in they found a small cancer on his bladder. It was a blessing that they found it
And the doc said it could have been bad. Thank heaven for kidney stones. Grandma will have to have surgery again to fix her. They need to remove a section of the tube that is
To badly scared. The doc says its a pretty easy thing.
How are things with E-Bean, the same or is the Christmas Spirit changing his attitude towards service? HES DOING ALOT BETTER.. I THINK HES TURNING AROUND. I HOPE THAT HE STAYS THIS WAY
How did the crown go. Is it all better? YA I JUST CAME FROM THE DENTIST. ITS FEELS 100% BETTER!!
What do you do when the weather is really bad, walk or do you have meetings during those times? WE WORK. RAIN OR SHINE!!
Kasey has a project in school with flat Stanley, and would like you to help her with it if it is ok. You would have to take pics of flat Stanley in areas that you go. Like on your bike, and other senic sights.OK...WHO IS FLAT STANLY AGAIN??
Flat Staley is a cardboard boy that is in a story that they are reading and he goes on all these great adventures. so they are all sending him out to people in differnt pants of the world and they will have like a show and tell.
with him all over the place. Like on a mission.

Can you have someone take a really good pics of you for our Christmas cards?YA BUT I HAE TO WAIT UNTIL MY NEXT AREA TO GET IT WITH MY NEW COMP.. UNLESS YOU JUST WANT ONE OF JUST ME...
How are your studies going, anything that just stands out at you?NOT REALY THIS WEEK. BEING SICK HAS MADE STUDIES KIND OF A CHORE. BUT I HAVE BEEN FOCUSING ALOT ON MY PURPOSE AS A MISSIONARY.
Do you know what time you are going to be able to call on Christmas or will they let you know that after transferees? I WILL LET YOU KNOW SOON AS I DO.
I will have mom get a calling card in the mail so you can have it prior to the time you need it. OK SOUNDS GREAT!
Any fun plans for Pday or is it shopping and landrey? BOWLING AND MONOPOLY WITH SOME FRIENDLY MISSIONARIES.. NO LAZER TAG TODAY....
What do you need in the way of food type items.UMM NOTHING I AM CLEANING OUT BEFORE TRANSFERS
Is your ward doing a nativity or something for Christmas? YA BUT I WILL BE GONE FOR IT
The Andersons are in charge of ours this year, and he is missing not having you to set up the sound system. HAHA. I WISH I HAD ONE STILL.. DID YOU CHECK THE TRUNK OF THE CAR??? I THINK THERE IS SOME GEAR IN THERE??
How is the music thing going. Do you play the piano very much. YA BUT I HAVE BEEN WORKING ON SINGING ALLOT.. I WANT TO BE ABLE TO SING THE MUSIC I WRITE.
Beatles on Itunes, that's a biggy.
How many scriptures are you up to now, wish I could remember what I ate for breakfast. I AM AT 120 SOMTHING ... I HAVE BEEN GIVING MY BRAIN A LITTLE BIT OF A REST BEFORE I START ON MEMORIZING CHAPTERS.
I saw on the news a Chinese kid memorized 20 something decks of cards in 26 seconds to set a new genius record. what's my name???
Well I better let you get back to you day, love and miss you.HAHAHA
MISS YOU AND LOVE YOU!!!!!!!!! I WILL SEND A LETTER THIS WEEK!!!! ONLY 18 MORE MONTHS!!!!!!!!


Love Dad

What would we do without great leaders?!

Got this from Cam.... he was/is instrumental in why Skylar is where he is today....thanks Cam!
(Camron Howell, Young Men's President Castlegate Ward)

Just got an email back from Skylar. I have attached it as a word document. I am going to print it out for each of the Priests, but thought you deserved a copy as well. (I may have spellchecked it a little :)



Sounds like he is doing Awesome!

October 18, 2010

Skylar writes:

Hey I am so glad to hear from you. Things are great here!! I love it out here and Chaz will to. He will be pro communicator and confident in his testimony. That was one thing he has always been good at. We just had an AZ Elder die. It’s a sad day here, but he has other work to do.

I'm glad you guys memorized My Missionary Purpose, it’s important. Memorization is key and it’s my new hobby. Right now I have all 49 of the mission one’s down and 50 of the seminary ones. And a few excerpts from "our heritage." I plan to have the other 50 by the end of the month and also to have the hymn book and chapter headings done by the time my mission is through. You asked for ones to help the Priests, so here are some essentials:

• Intro to the BOM( pag. 1 last 2)
• Matt. 3: 13-17
• 2 Nephi 2:22-27
• John 3:3-5
• Jeremiah 1:5
• Numbers 12:6
• Ephesians 2:19-20
• JSH 1:14-20
• 2 Nephi 31:20-21
• Moroni 7:45
• Moroni 7:33-34

Let me know if there are any overachievers and I will send more. Here is one that should have some brownie points or something. Ephesians 6:11-17 It took me a full day to get down. Make sure that everyone is thinking of a way to use these in their studies. Also, they should be familiar with the contents of the chapters listed at the beginning of lesson 2. I will also send you the revised MTC 8 lessons. It’s all about inspired questions!!! The most important things to remember are:

• BE EXACTLY EXACTLY EXACTLY OBEDIENT!
• Be unified with the lord
• Love the Scriptures
• Pray for charity daily!(to see others and yourself as Christ does)
• Learn to recognize the spirit (When teaching, SHUT UP AND LISTEN!! NOTHING YOU SAY MATERS ANYWAYS!!! let the spirit teach) quote me on that, but explain to them what I mean.
• WORK. WORK. WORK.

I hope these things help!! I get excited talking about the work! I love teaching missionaries!!
Promise them that by doing these things they will have missions that with change their lives!!

I love my Shower Head!! I hope your Hawaii trip was super. I wish I was in some decent warmth. 55 in the day 30 at night!! Not the kind of weather for an AZ Boy, but perfect for a servant of the lord!
GOD SPEED!!

Turkey Day

November 29, 2010

Dad writes (and Skylar replies)

How was your Thanksgiving? IT WAS GOOD.. BUT IT WAS JUST US AND OUR WARD MISSION LEADER AND ONE LESS ACTIVE MEMBER. AND WE ALL WERE SICK.. ME AND ELDER BEAN HAVE BEEN AT THE APT. ALL WEEKEND. NOT FUN. WE PLAYED ALLOT OF MONOPOLY AMD POOHEAD. ITS A MISSIONARY CARDGAME.

We had Grandma,Pa,Steve,Angela and her daughter Kaity over for dinner and games.SOUND LIKE A REALY GOOD TIME

Steve is engaged and getting a new trailer on more land. GOOD FOR HIM!!

We got your letter and the SD card. The SD had almost wore threw the envelope.might want to double the envelopes when sending them. OK WILL DO

The pics were great and we loved the video.I HOPED THAT YOU WOULD

How are you liking the change of seasons? Not AZ winters HuH. UMM NOT REALY.. ITS SO COLD. I SAW SNOW!!!! AND NOT NICE SNOW.. IT WAS 35 ALL LAST WEEK.

How is your hand are you almost healed now. And did you get your crown on your tooth yet. Is it better now? NO I DO THAT TOMORROW. AND THE HAND IS FINE NOW IT JUST WILL BE AHILE BEFORE THE SKIN COMES BACK ALL THE WAY.

That is great that you have the temple stuff committed to memory and the other things to.
Are you reading alot and what are you reading. I AM JUST WORKING ON MASTERING THE PREACH MY GOSPEL LESSONS.

Mom is getting a box together to send before Christmas, anything you need added to it. We will send it out after the 14th if that will be better. REACHARGABLE BATTERIES WOULD BE REALLY HEALPFUL BUT NOT VITAL. UMM. OH YA. MY BUGET PLANNING HAS BEEN ALL OF WITH TRANSFERS. COMMING UP. I HAD TO TO THE BIG SHOPPING DAY WITH THE REST OF THE CHASE CARD. AND HAD TO USE OURS TODAY. AND I GOT SOME CASH BACK.


I think that it is Awsome that your Pres. Has confidence in your leadership abilities and Knows you can get Elder Bean on the the right track.
How is the new coat working out, better I hope? IT IS GREAT. IT KEEPS ME DRY FOR SURE.

Good Idea to use your shoes that way, I'm sure winter is going to be hard on them. Keep them waterproofed and let them dry out as much as you can. The work must go on.
A nutria, that's cool I Know they are rodents but I think its cool anyway's. I had just watched a monster qwest that talked about them.
How was the person you were baptizing when you got scalded, were the burned? NO THEY DIDN'T GET IN. I MADE SURE OF THAT

How many have you Baptized now? THIS MAKES 2

What is your favorite time of the day? UMM. I LOVE STUDIES AND ALSO 1015 WHEN WE DO QUIET TIME FOR PRAYERS BEFORE BED.

Any new foods that you like? UMM. I HAVE BEEN REALLY LIKEING RICE. MAYBE THATS BECAUS ITS WAY CHEEP. haha

What is your favorite scripture or Quote? umm. buhold if men come unto me i will show unto them there weakness, i give unto man weakness that they may be humble,for if they come unto me and have faith in me, then will i make weak things become strong unto them.

Is the egg experiment the one that you put the egg on a bottle with a candle burning inside? ya but elder bean did it with lighter fluid.

Both Pres and Sister Dyches sounds really nice.
How is the typing going are you getting faster. I like that the computer has spell check, It's a must when I write. Now if it would just dictate. haha. i think that i am getting a little faster.

Well I hope that you Get transferred to a more remote area so that the wild life updates come in a little more often and you go were there is alot of people waiting to
Hear the message. ya i hope i go to the shore the next transfer too.

Hope you have a great week with many opportunity. thanks i hope all gos well for the store too. sorry theres not much to report this week. im just still working on getting better.

Love you, and its to soon to get trunky so get back to work. will do. six months next week!!!!


Love Dad

November 29, 2010

Onnie writes: (and Skylar replies)

HI!

How are you? How has your week been? I hope things are going good for you.

Things here have been very chilly. We've had a cold snap, and for AZ it's been way cold. I don't like it, but I try to remember we still have it warmer than others. Thanksgiving was good. It was a quiet holiday for us this year. We went to the Slade's and had the feast. It was a nice day. Scott just went on an elk hunt with his business partner, Mark who got a big 2 pointer. So that was exciting for them. I don't know if I've mentioned my primary class. I have 13 four and five year olds. It's a fun time! We are learning the names and faces of the first presidency and the quorum of the 12. They are so smart! I can't believe how quick they are catching on. My kids are doing well. I think we are all healthy now, crossing my fingers!


i guess its just that time for everyone because i just got sick too. i have been inside all weekend. trying to get better..

Okay, some questions for you:

How was Turkey Day? it was kind of a dud. the invitation dinner at the ward mission leader house dident go like we planned. only one person showed up.

What are the mission rules for Thanksgiving? have fun and stay safe.

How is the bike situation? i got one from a member. im just spending a little on it for repairs here and there. but i dont plan on spending much on it it will get me by.

Who is your favorite person in the ward to visit? umm. the ward mission leader. he is way chill and hes 22. and bro moore. he takes us for test drives in bmws.

Any wildlife encounters now that the weather is getting colder? it is way freezing.... like 40s and 30s

If you could visit any one historical religious spot for a day, where would you go? um. zarahemla would be sweet.


Okay, now for the quote! Are you ready? Here it is:
"Each of us will face trials and tests, and . . . it is how we react to those difficulties that will determine our success and happiness. Each of us will face adversity no matter where we are. We are taught in the scriptures that there 'must needs be . . . an opposition in all things' (2 Nephi 2:11). We will each face times of difficulty, and the question is not when we will face them but how we face them."

James B. Martino

We love you and hope you have a great week! love you guys!!!

Onnie

Pics!

November 22, 2010

Pics from Sis. Montes ( a family in Skylar's first area - Salem 1st ward)

Hi and greetings from Salem Oregon. Here are the pictures I was sending you
last week of Elder White. We love Elder White. We are eating dinner with him
right now as we speak. Things are a little slow here right now he says because
it actually gets dark around 4:30. He is a wonderful missionary and we love him
so much!!!! Btw, unfortunately last night his bike was stolen. Don't worry
though a member already gave him one. Elder White said to tell you that the
bike is bright yellow and very flashy. Hey you should get a Facebook for Elder
White.

Take Care,
Jan and Aurelio Montes




Locked Out



My boy!



Bishop & Margaret Manu

Elder Bean

Update

I am SO sorry. I know you guys get e-mails outside of the blog but I really need to get better at keeping this thing up to date.



I will do my best to catch everyone up. I also have a couple of videos he sent...if I can remember how to post them I'll add them too.

Grab a snack and a drink cuz this baby is gonna be LONG!

K- here we go!


November 22, 2010

Dad writes: (and Skylar replies)

How are things going? GOODISH.... BUT UGGGGGGGGGG..............
Sorry to hear about you bike, but how nice to have good members to help you out when you need it. How is the new bike better than the old one? ITS NOT... ITS BRIGHT YELLOW..SLOW..BUT IT GETS ME FROM A TO B. I HOPE I GO TO THE CAR AREA. BUT I JUST STOPED THINKING AND JUST RIDE IT. FOCUS ON THE WORK. I GUESS THE LORD HAS SOME LESSON IN THIS. I AM SUPER MAD AT ELDER HUMANN. (THE ELDER WHO GOT MY BIKE STOLEN BY NOT LOCKING IT UP.) BUT I FORGAVE HIM... IT WAS SO HARD!!! BUT I THINK THERE IS SOME GOOD ADVICE FOR MISSIONARIES... DONT BY NICE STUFF... GET ONE NICE SUIT FOR MEETINGS AND GET DI SHOES SLACKS AND SUITS. I NEVER WEAR SUIT JAKETS.. JUST SLACKSAND MY RAIN COAT. I AM SAVING MY SOES FOR LATER BECAUSE I GOT A PAIR AT GOOD WILL FOR 6 BUCKS!! SO I JUST WEAR THEM UNTIL THEY ARE NO GOOD. GET WORK PANTS THAT ARE BLACK AND GET ATHLETIC SOCKS NOT DRESS ONES..
It was nice to get pics and know that your doing well. I think that the lord is watching out for you, and what a blessing it is to be in an area that you have
Great member support.
It is rainy and overcast here today but I'm sure that it's your everyday weather there. I kind of like it for a day or two.YA ITS BEEN LIKE 40 ALL WEEK. WE ARE SOPPOSED TO GET SOME SNOW TODAY.. LIKE ALLOT.
How is the work going there, any new prospects or even old ones that might be more ready?TRINI SEEMS TO BE MOVING ALONG.. BUT DAWNA IS STILL HAVING TROUBLE QUITTING SMOKING. I DONT KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH HER..
So with the new bike being yellow, are you naming it lightning, and hoping that lightning doesn't strike twice in the same place?HAHAH NO I NAMED IT THE BANNANA BOAT
How is Elder Bean he looks go in the pic, Kylee said you look like a fatty but you look the same to me. Kylee thinks everyone is a fatty so don't let it bother you.I AM BECOMING A FATTY HARDCORE.
Your Grandparents are still a mess, Grandma is still having a problem with her knee and kidneys, and pa has a kidney stone the will have to blast out on Wednesday.OH GEEZE.... THEY SEEM TO BE PHISICALY SCREWED.... I PUT HER ON THE PRAYER ROLL WHEN WE WENT TO THE TEMPLE THOUGH!!!! AND I FINALY MEMORIZED ALL MY STUFF FOR THE TEMPLE!
Kasey went to the grinch that stole Christmas with Onnie and Scott, She liked it alot.
The store is almost ready to go so I can rest alittle easier.
What Does it smell like outside right now. OIL.WATER..... COLD.. ITS A WASTLAND OUT THERE RIGHT NOW. AND MY RAIN COAT IS FAILING IN THE HEVY COLD RAIN.
Are people in that area thinking that it is going to be a cold winter? YES ITS SOPPOSED TO BE REALLY BAD.. NOT DANGEROUS. BUT LIKE NO CARS DRIVING AROUND.
We are all doing well here and I think that we are being blessed everyday by your service.
Are lesson in Gospel Doc. Was on missionary work and how the lord write things on our hearts and we can't deny what we feel.
What a awsome responsibility that you have right now to make sure that those that are ready will hear it.
Are things going better with Elder Bean? NOT REALLY. BUT WE GET ALONG WELL ENOUGH.. I GOT A NERF GUN THAT I CAN SHOOT HIM WITH FROM THE DESK WHEN HE SLEEPS DURING STUDIES.. AHAHAH. KIND OF LIKE THE BLASTER THAT I USED ON MOM.
Are you in need of anything? UMM. YES BUT I FORGOT WHAT... I GUESS I DIDENT NEED IT THAT BAD.
Are you eating? YES.. SO MUCH... 2 MUCH....
How are the cloths holding up? VERY WELL. I AM JUST WEARING THE DI SLACKS EVERY DAY AND THEY DO GREAT.
Keep giving us idea to give out for Christmas. BLACK DRESS BELT. PHASE 10.
Any wildlife sightings? I SAW A NUTRIA.. ITS LIKE A BEVER WITH A RAT TAIL. ELDER BUROUGHS HIT ONE..
Thank Sister Montes for the email and for feeding our boy. SURE.. SHES WAY SWEET. I LOVE THEM.
Mom says to get a lock for your bike and not to make it to nice, so they won't want it. THATS HOW MINE WAS!!! I SPRAYPAINTED IT HALF BLACK AND WHITE WITH GREY PACHES. AND IT WAS ON EXCHANGES THAT IT GOT STOLEN AND THE MISSIONARY DID NOT LOCK IT UP. BUT I HAVE A LOCK THAT WILL WORK FOR NOW. BUT I WILL NEED A NICER ONE IF I GO TO SOUTHEAST PORTLAND.. ITIS THE BIKE THEFT CAPITOL!!
She got the box that you sent home. COOL.. MAKE SURE THAT HOWELL GETS THE DVDS TO SHOW THE YOUNG MEN AFTER YOU WACH THEM. THEY SHOW REALY WELL WHAT I AM DOING. YOU SHOULD WACH THEM. THEY ARE SET UP LIKE TV SHOWS.
Well I better get going my Boss is hard to work for and she hates it if I'm late, Have a great week and I'll
Talk to you soon, love you buddy HAHAAHAH.


LOVE YOU DAD.... AND I GUESS MOM... IF I HAVE TO HAHAHA JK
Love Dad, And Mom I Guess



November 22, 2010

Onnie writes: (and Skylar replies)

Hi!

Did you get my email last week? I didn't hear from you--are you punishing me? Have I been bad? :)

I hope you are doing well. I've noticed that it's pretty chilly up in your area. I hope you are keeping warm!!!

Things here have been pretty good. We are all still recovering from all of our sicknesses. YUCK! Yesterday we went to see How the Grinch Stole Christmas. It was fun. Kasey went with us. You can see a pic on our blog. Other than that we are gearing up for the Thanksgiving week. Casen has a big Thanksgiving play this week. His part and the songs are so cute. He is the preacher and says "Praise the Lord!" I'll let you know how it goes!

Well, I'll spare you the questions this week, since you have not answered last weeks yet. I pasted last weeks email below--so get on that, would ya?

Here is your quote for this week!
"Unless the roots of your testimony are firmly planted, it will be difficult for you to withstand the ridicule of those who challenge your faith."
~Thomas S Monson

Happy Thanksgiving. We love you--and don't eat too much Turkey!

Onnie


Hello Skylar!




How are you doing? How are things in OR? I hope you are doing well.



Things here are going all right. Kaelyn has been so sick and Scott has a little surgical procedure on Friday. I think everyone is on the mend now--at least I hope so. Kelsey and Casen are playing soccer and we watched their games on Saturday. They are so funny to watch. We also had Stake conference this weekend. I was able to go to our adult session--which was very good, but I had to miss Sunday because Kaelyn was not well. Uncle Scott had to preside over the Spanish meeting and translate all of the opening and business for those members. Then he listened to the entire meeting in Spanish (it was a broadcast). I think he really enjoyed it. It was good practice for him too!



Questions for this week:



How are things with your comp? we get along well enough....

Where are you studying in the scriptures now? i am reading in 2 ne. ch 5. and just learning about the prophets..

Do you have any baptisms scheduled? not any that i am anticipating to go through. but i hope 2

How often do you wash your sheets and other bedding? Do you have flannel ones?

Flu season is coming--are you practicing good hand washing techniques? yes i am. its 2 cold for the flew to survive hahaha

What did you have for dinner last night? ummm...... ham and potatos.

When do you get to visit the temple again? not until march.

Have you looked at our blog? I HAVE NOT I GUESS I CAN ONLY DO IT IF I AM SENT A LINK.. RULES ARE WEIRD SOMETIMES. HAHA

(sorry to bug about this, but I want to make sure you get them--did the thermal garments get to you yet?)





Okay, well here is the quote for this week (Are you writing these down?) I really love this one:

“The Lord knows who we really are, what we really think, what we really do, and who we really are becoming.”

David A. Bednar

Have a great week! We love you!

Onnie

LOVE YOU GUYS!!!