It's time! It's time!

Where did two years go!!!!????

I know it's been forever since I posted.  Once we were told not to....then Skylar spent the last several months with a companion that really tested his patience!  All the letters home were not very positive, definately NOT blogworthy and had nothing to do with the mission except that we were counting down the days til he came home....which leads me to this post!!!

Please spread the word to anyone who may not be on this blog or on the Original Castlegate Ward Facebook page.

See ya then!

Video finally!

Remember that 20 minute video that I said I was working on? Well, I couldn't figure it out but my friend, who happens to be fabulous in all things computer related, did her magic, click click click and here we are!

Grab a snack and have a seat...it seriously is 20 minutes long!

more mail

July 18, 2011

Onnie writes: (Skylar replies)

Hey!

How are you? It seems like forever since i last emailed you! Hope you are well.

Things down this way have been good. We survived girls camp. Wow it was an adventure! It rained and rained for about 3 hours, we lost a couple of tents in the downpour, and then we had a mishap with food. CRAZY! But I think the girls had a great time and it was fun to be with them. And guess what? We are camping again this week--with the Slade?Anderson family. Wow, I should get some type of award for all this camping. :) Scott and the kids love it, so I guess that's reward enough. (yeah, right)

So--some questions:

What did you have for dinner last night? PERSIAN FOOD.....WEIRD BUT GOOD
How do you most like to visit in the ward?I THINK YOU MENT WHO.. BUT THE ELIS FAMILY!! THEY ARE THE SWEETEST!!
When do you get to go to the temple again? IDK ITS CLOSED RIGHT NOW
What is your favorite place to shop now? SALV. ARMY.. AND ROSS
Any run-ins with critters? NO.. BUT I AM KILLING RABITS IN A FEW WEEKS.. ITS STEW TIME SAYS BRO SIMMONS

How's the bike holding up? BEAUTIFULY.. IT WAS WORTH THE INVESTMENT
Do you need or want anything?UMM.. SWEET ARGILE SOCKS ARE ALWAYS COOL (already taken care of) BUT NOTHING PRESSING.. I HAVE REACHED A COMFORTABLE POSITION IN THE MISSION
If you were able to visit a scene from the times of the pioneers, which one would you witness? I WOULD LIKE TO SEE THE TWO YOUNG MEN THAT SACRIFICED TO HELP THE HANDCART COMPANY CROSS THE RIVER..

Here's a quote for you too!

"People of integrity and honesty not only practice what they preach, they are what they preach. And the Savior stands as the finest example."

David A. Bednar



We love you! Have a great week!
Onnie
LOVE YOU GUYS!!!!!!!

dad mail

July 18, 2011

Dad writes: (Skylar replies)

How are you doing, any great happenings going on in the great state of Oregon.
It is hot here and I'm thinking that being a snowbird is not such a bad idea.
They say we might get rain but you know how that goes, dust, wind, a few sprinkles, wash your car and start over.
How are you doing with the work? Any new Prospects? YES.. JUAN AND VICKIE.. THEY ARE SWEET.. SHES LESS ACTIVE AND HE IS NOT A MEMBER.. BUT THEY SEEM EXCITED TO LEARN.
I am going on a visit with the missionaries, on Wednesday, to a neighbor down the street. They want him to meet some of the people in the area. SWEET!! THE MISSIONARIES BRING BLESSING TO HOMES.. I KNOW THAT FROM EXPIRIANCE.. PEOPLE TELL US WE MAKE THEIR HOUSE MORE PEACEFUL... I DIDENT BELIVE IT AT FIRST.. BUT WE HAVE HAD SO MANY PEOPLE SAY IT.. ITS COOL
One of them is brand new and the day I talked to them was his 1st day, It was 107 in the shade and He's from Utah. Poor guy.
What are you doing with your spare time or is there any. Do you have any new hobbies.
Kasey said to tell you we saw a bunch of rabbits the other night, but that's about it for animal report, have you seen anything new or cool.
What are you doing with you day? EMAIL.. SALV. ARMY. KICKBALL. PICK SOME CHERRIES.. SING... THE USUAL
Are you able to play guitar much or just on P-day? USUALY JUST ON PDAY.. OR WHEN MEMBERS FIND OUT(SEE DIOLOGE)M-MEMBER J-ME

M-"SO. WHAT ARE YOU DOING AFTER THE MISSION?"
J- " GOING TO SCHOOL FOR MUSIC PRODUCTION"
M-"OH.. DO YOU PLAY ANY INSTUMENTS? WICH ONES?"
J-"YES.. GUITAR..BASS.A LITTLE PIANO.SINGING..SOME VOCAL WORK(MY NEWFOUIND PROFESIONAL WAY TO SAY SCREAMING)"
M-"WOW..WERE YOU IN ANY BANDS? WILL YOU PERSUE THAT?"
J-"YES.. I PLAN ON IT THE SCHOOL IS SO I CAN HAVE SOMETHING FOR AFTER MY MUSIC CAREER"(MEMBERS ALWAYS GIVE A LITTLE BIT OF A "DREAM ON" EXPRESSION)
M-"WE HAVE A GUITAR!!! WILL YOU PLAY FOR US?"
J-"NOT AFTER THAT LOOK OF DISAPROVAL!!!" (HAHAH JK.. I NEVER SAY THAT)
J-"YES" (MIND YOU THAT THE YES IS CONDITIONAL ON WETHER OR NOT THERE IS A TEENAGE GIRL IN THE HOUSE.. IF SO THAN ITS A NO-GO.. THATS BAD JU-JU)


What's the weather like there now, like it. ITS WARM.. BUT STILL RAINS!!!
Glad you got to stay with your companion, are you guys going to stay in the same area or do you both move together? NO WE ARE STILL IN OLD HILLSBORO.
How many members are there in you ward? LIKE 120
What is you favorite meal? Don;t say fresh chicken or you will gross your mom out.UMM.. SMOKIN GOOD FOODS!!! SMOKED PORK SANDWICH!!
Her chicken and eggs come from the store not real chickens.THATS OK. MINE ARE FREE. HAHA
What do you think that you have learned from you mission up to this point, and what would you like to learn in the last half? WOW.. I THINK THE MOST IMPORTANT THING I HAVE LEARNED IS JUST TO BE REAL WITH PEOPLE.. FOCUS ON THE IMPORTANT THINGS.. DONT WORRY ABOUT THINGS YOU CANT CONTROL.. AND THAT I REALY CAN DO ANYTHING IF I TRY TO.. AS LONG AS IT IS EXPIDIENT IN THE LORD.. PRAYER WORKS.. THE SCRIPTURES HAVE THE ANSWERS TO EVERYDAY QUESTIONS AND IS A GUIDE SPECIFICALY FOR US IN THEIS DAY..RAIN SUCKS.. AND A CHOOSING A WIFE IS GETTING TO BE A HEVIER AND HEVIER DECISION.. I WANT TO LEAN MORE ABOUT MASTERING MYSELF.. TO BE SELF GOVERNING AND SELF MOTIVATED..
Do you need anything, food, cloths an extra prayer? UMM.. I THINK I AM GOOD FOR NOW..
How is the bike working, are you saying in shape or is it just easy going? IT IS A BEAUTY.. STILL RUNS LIKE A CHAMP
Are you still reading in the BOM or are you on to something new.I READ THE BOM ALLOT.. I WANT TO BEA ABLE TO KNOW IT AND THE NEW TESTAMENT FLUENTLY.. AND I AN STUDYING THE ORIGIONS OF THE NEW TESTAMENT.. ABOUT HOW SCRIPTRE IS WRITTEN ADN WHERE IT COMES FROM
Any new words of wisdom that you would like to share. PRAY AND READ.. AS A FAMILY.. SIMPLE THINGS.. BUT THEY ARE THE KEY. THEY REALLY ARE..IF YOU HAVE A GOOD LINE OF COMUNICATION WITH HEVENTLY FATHER.. THEN HE WILL DIRECT YOU IN ALL THAT YOU DO.. AND LIFE WILL BE EASYER.. I PROMISE
Have you got a chance to meet your new president, or is he still getting settled in? YES HE IS SWEET.. BUT I DONT KNOW A WHOLE LOT ELSE.. HE SAYS THAT HE EXPECTS ME TO BE WHAT PRESIDENT DYCHES SAID I WAS..
How is Bo doing? HES DOING GOOD IT SOUNDS LIKE.. STILL STRUGGLEING.. BUT I KNOW THAT THE LORD HAS HIM BEING TESTED IN A WAY THAT WILL BENIFIT HIM.. I GUESS THE WAY TRANSFERS FALLS FOR HIM WE GET HOME WITHIN 6 WEEKS OF EACH OTHER!!
Well I better get up and get to work before it gets to hot, have a good day and be safe, we love you and mom says she might miss ya, a little but that's it,
Talk to you soon. Love Dad

LOVES!!!!!!!!

and then his letter to the Mission President

Hey president.. not much going on.. but we picked up a new investigator.. his name is Juan.. he is living with a less active sister.. and she wants to get reactive.. and he is interested in learning.. so we will See where that goes. Carter did not come to Church. we are going to stop by today and see whats up.
I am doing great.. I am feeling a difference in my studies. I am feeling like doing the things i am supposed to do are relay helping me as opposed to being a burdon.. it makes it funner to work when you don't feel like it is just a calling but a joy.. that's been our focus. We got a game going in the district to help emphasize this point.. some companionship's are less-excited.. and by less i mean they don't want to play at all.. but little do they know that there is a bar set.. and everyone that meets those expectations it going to be rewarded.. weather or not they are the winner.. slightly deceitful.. maybe.. but it be a blessing and boost for those who try. and hard doctrine for those who don't. LET THE GAMES BEGIN!!!

Pics

If you want to know the outcome of this situation let me know...I REFUSE to post it!

Letter to the Mission President

July 11, 2011

Skylar writes:

hey president..
well i am looking forward to my 3rd transfer with elder Schoenfeld.. he is awesome.. and we have some sweet work going on.. We had alexander come to church.. he is way solid, he said he had never felt anything like it before. it way cool to see that in him.. but unfortunatly for us we have to turn him over th the YSA ward.. he is that age and will be better off there.. it seems like all we get is either spanish, not in our area, or YSA people.. its a little anoying. but its still feels good to be ding the work.
carter is progressing well to.. i think ge really enjoys church. Bro sims is in the stop smoking program that the church is sponsering. so we dont really meet with him that much.

email

July 11, 2011

Skylar writes:

so. it was a good week.. me and schoenfeld will be together for another 6 weeks.. officialy the longest companion ive had.. but the best one to be with... i sent a box home.. theres just stuff that i dident want to haul around.. i wont be able to read the retun till i retun haha.. and theres other random stuff. you guys can rummage through if you want.. just books, papers... and some cds that this crazy guy gave me.. his name was bill.. he invited us in and showed us basicaly the biggest music room i had ever seen,,, and hes like.. here you will apriciate these bands.. ive never heard of most of them.. but dad might like them.. umm... what else.. oh ya... question.. my comp made me think of this.. not being trunky... but do i get my baby back when i get home?? or did that go away with the days that i dident have to shave every day.. just curious....
president morby is way sweet. i love him.. hes allot more lax.. but im sure that some punks will screw it up.. what a mess. our district in not doing to well. but be have plans for them.. we want to inspire them.. (i chose inspire as a positive synonym for minipulate)
i went to salvation army on half off day and got some sweet skinnys.. i think they are girls though.. no front pokets.. but who knows..
umm. what kind of things do you guys want to know about the mission? so much happens from week to week. and i wirte it down.. but i dont know what parts you guys want to hear.. well.. talk to you later.. love you!

Fourth of July

July 4th, 2011

Dad writes: (Skylar replies)

Happy 4Th, I hope you are having a good day, I loved to sing the patriotic song in church yesterday and to feel that the lord has truely blessed this nation and all that live here.
Never forget how lucky you are to be born at this time and in this nation, with all the rights and privligages that we have.
How is the mission going, do you feel that you are being led by the spirit? SOMETIMES.. I THINK I JUST GET USED TO IT.. BUT EVERY ONCE IN A WHILE I GET A AWAKENING TO HOW MUCH I AM LED
I know that at times it is hard to stay in tune but if you let yourself go and follow what you know to be right he will guide and bless you.
has your mission President been released yet? YES PRES MORBY IS IN.. THEY SAY HE IS REALY RELAXED ABOUT THINGS
How are things going with your companion? AWESOME.. I HOPE WE DONT GET TRANSFERED
How is the weather now, it is sticky and hot here. and we might even get rain.
Any plans for the FireWorks? Kasey is at Grandmas and Kylee is going to Emily's, so I think mom and I are going to watch a movie and stay inside where it is cool. UMM.. NOT YET BUT I WILL TRY TO FIGURE SOMETHING OUT.. WE WENT TO A SWEET PARADE TODAY.. IT WAS COOL..
Any plans for Pday? JUST SOME SINGGING AND GUITAR PLAYING
Saw Josh at walmart, seems to be in good spirits. It was nice to talk to him.
I talked to Cameron Beatty at Kevins homecoming and you wouldn't belive how much he has changed, looks alot like his older brother.
Kevin looks the same and is still just Kevin, It was good to see the Shoe's, sure miss them.
How have you been feeling, and change of weather problems? JUST ALERGIES..
Do you need anything? mom had me dig out your shoes and a hoodie, She will get that in the mail this week.
What's your favorite thing to do right now, Besides sleeping? and guitar center? I LIKE TO READ DOCTINAL BOOKS
How are you doing with you Reading? I AM DOING GOOD.. TIME TO START THE BOM AGAIN.. I WANT TO BE ABLE TO MAKE IT FUN FOR PEOPLE TO LISTEN TO.
do you have any new leads, anyone your teaching? NO.. BUT WE HAVE ALLOT OF FUNNY TRACTING STORIES.. I WILL GET THEM ALL TOGETHER..
What is the animal report. DEAD.. ALL OF THEM.. THERE IS SO MUCH ROADKILL
I saw a beetle that you could throw a saddle on and ride, I know it's in the Insect family but my gosh you have to give me credit when they are that big.
The new ward is going ok and we meet with the bishop this wednesday, I'll let you know.
Wow 13 months down, time just seems to go faster and faster.
well keep up the good work and I will see you in no time.
Have a great week and I'll talk to you soon, love you Dad

I AM GOING TO WRITE JOSH THIS WEEK.. I HOPE ALL IS GOING WELL!!
HAPPY 4TH!!!!!!!!!

June 27, 2011

k - I seriously have to start sending an email on Sunday evening....we seem to keep missing him....

Skylar writes:

NO EMAIL??? OK
WELL THIS WEEK HAS GONE... WELL ITS GONE.. I WAS SICK FOR A WHILE WITH WHATEVER IS GOING AROUND AND MY EYES ARE REALLY START IN TO BUG ME.. THEY BURN ALL THE TIME. I DONT KNOW IF ITS A VISION THING.. .. OR A CRONIC DRY EYES THING.. BUT IT STINKS BIG TIME.
BUT IT WAS SUNNY MOST OF THE WEEK AND I HAD ALLOT OF TIME TO THING ABOUT THINGS.. I HAVE HAD REALY GOOD STUDIES AND THOUHGT ABOUT WHAT I WANT TO DO WITH MY LIFE.. I AM NOT SURE ABOUT LIVING IN CALIFORNIA.. IT IS REALY EXPENSIVE.. BUT I WILL FIGURE ALL THAT OUT WHEN I GO HOME..
i LOVE SERVING AND SEEING MYSELF CHANGE.. i AM TRYING TO FIGURE OUT HOW TO MAKE IT BETTER THOUGH.. THINGS ARE NEVER GOOD ENOUGH.. ALLWAYS GOT TO WORK OUT KINKS TO GET IT WORKING RIGHT.. HAHA
WELL THATS MOSTLY IT FOR THE WEEK.. NOTHING BIG HAPPEND.. JUST LOOKING FOR INVESTIGATORS... LOVE YOU AND SEE YOU LATER!

Mom writes: (too late, again!)

Hiddey ho!

sooooo....WHATcha doin'.......

I see that your temp for today is like 75. We're doin a toasty 115.....brrrr.....this is the time of year that all that rain and snow seems worth it huh?

So....we went to our new ward yesterday...hmmm...a ward is what you make of it.....it's small....and a LOT of old people.....a few young families.....there are 3 laurels.....and 5 kids in Kasey's class. There were 12 women in relief society and I couldn't help but contemplate life as I see these women all hunched over with their oxygen. oh man....this is gonna be intertesting.

One of the ward missionaries is Elder Lichtenstein......wonder if he's from Gelderland? (ya ever seen A Knights Tale?) THE WARD MISSIONARIES?? OR THE FULL TIME ELDERS? (ya...that's what I meant)

Kevin's homecoming is Wednesday. (He's been serving in Brazil) He sounds great....it'll be good to see him....and the Makers of Shoes.... I CANT BELIVE HES HOME!

Let's see....what else?

I put some pics on an SD card for you....there's not a lot....what do you want pics of? ANYTHING REALY.. PEOPLE THE HOUSE..

Is Collect the Elect the mission theme....or was it just that one area? Will the theme change when the new Pres comes in??? IT WAS A PROGRAM.. AND I DONT KNOW IF IT WILL CHANGE OR NOT

Kylee says.....you're a loser......(cuz you don't respond to her emails)...(she says....no biggie it's whatever, not like I'm your sister or anything) yup UMM. I DEFINITLY HAVENT GOT AN EMAIL FROM HER.. AND SHE NEVER WANT TO HEAR OR TALK ABOUT CHURCH THINGS..... THERE GOES MOST OF THE STUFF I TALK ABOUT ALL DAY... SHE DOSENT WANT TO TALK ABOUT THINGS THAT I LIKE.... UNDERSTANDABLE... AND SHE WONT GIVE ME MORE THAN A ONE WORD ANSWER TO ANY QUESTION I ASK..... I WOULD LOVE TO TALK WITH HER BUT ITS LIKE TALKING TO A WALL.. SHE HAS TO GIVE ME SOMETHING TO GO OFF OF. (Yay! It's like he never left home!!!!! OMG! Will they ever stop fighting???)
Kasey says......did you sell the rock band p.s. i love you NO.. ITS IN MY BOXES.. AND IF SHE GETS THE MIC I HAVE IT FOR XBOX.. SO SHE CAN PLAY IT WITHOUT HOOKING EVERYTHING UP.. AND IF YOU GET INTO MY BOX WOULD YOU SEND ME MY RUNNING SHOES AND HOODIE.. THEN I COULD ELLIMINATE ANY EXCUSE NOT TO RUN..

ummmm.....

you doin' ok? Grandma Pat said she sent some Melatonin....and that she hasn't received a thank you yet for the box...she didn't ask...I asked her.... (Gotta teach this kid to write thank yous!!!)I AM ON IT LIKE BLUE BONNET!! IM JUST FINDING TIME TO WRITE IT.

welll....life is boring around here......seems like we're at a new point in life....so guess we'll see where we go. YA I HOPE THE STORE GOES WELL.. I WILL DEFINITLY NEED YOUR HELP WHEN I OPEN MY STUDIO.. THATS A HEADACHE IN ITSELF.. I KNOW I SHOULDENT FOCUS ON IT.. BUT YOU KNOW HOW IT IS.. IT STILL ON THE LIST OF THINGS THAT NEEDS TO GET DONE..

We got free tickets to go to that sea life park thing at AZ Mills....so dad's all jazzed....the rest of us....nah so mush.....but it will be a good family day....

sorry this is all scattered....kinda like my ADD brain...everyone keeps coming in the room saying "Let's go!".....so fine....

have a great P day with your new BFF! :D

mommy doesn't love you.....well you're "real" mom probibly does....

HAHA// LOVE YOU!! LET ME KNOW WHEN THE LETTER GETS THERE! I WASENT FORGETTING FATHERS DAY! IM JUST BEHIND.. LIKE MOTHER LIKE SON!


Onnie writes:

Hi!

We didn't hear from you last week! Hope you are doing well.

It is HOT here in AZ. I think the temp yesterday got to 114. We spent a while in the neighbors pool. The kids LOVE that. Kelsey reminds me of you and Kylee at her age. She is a fish. And Casen is getting to be a good little swimmer too! It was a very busy week. We had dr.'s appts, and a million other things going on. Man, I'm glad this week looks to be less busy. Business is really keeping Scott on his toes. he is looking forward to the long weekend coming up.

Well, since you didn't answer last week's questions, here they are plus a few extra...

Did you get transferred? NOPE.. STILL IN HILLSBORO
How are you getting along with the comp? WE ARE GETTING ALONG GREAT! WE ARGUE ALLOT BUT IT USUALY IS JUST ON A INTILECTUAL LEVEL
I saw on the news that there was a big nude bike ride in the Portland area last week--were you on apartment lock down that day? 'Cause I'm sure you two fine elders didn't participate in that... WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT!! I CAME IN 3RD.. NO I DIDENT EVEN KNOW THAT IT WAS HAPPENING
Are you eating at members homes each night? YUP
Any luck with new investigators? NO.. STILL JUST DOIN ALLOT OG FINDING
How is the singing going in church? PRETY GOOD.. I AM JUST WORKING ON GETTING MY RANGE GOING HIGHER
How long do you have to email on p-day? WE ARE ONLY SOPOSED TO TAKE AN HOUR
How often do you go to the grocery store? EVER WEEK.. UNLESS WE ARE OUT OF MONEY. THEN WE JUST EAT THE RAMEN WE GOT AT THE BEGGINING OF THE MONTH
Grandma wants to know if you got her b-day card yet? (it wasn't in the box we sent) YES I GOT IT.
If you were allowed to watch one day of the creation of the world, which day would you want to see? THE CREATION ON LIGHT.. I THINK THERES ALLOT TO BE FOUND DOCTRINALY THERE.

Now a quote. Thought as a missionary you could really appreciate this one:
“Our leaders have consistently counseled us ‘to live with respect and appreciation for those not of our faith. There is so great a need for civility and mutual respect among those of differing beliefs and philosophies’ (Gordon B. Hinckley, “This Is the Work of the Master,” Ensign, May 1995, 71).
“It is equally important that we be loving and kind to members of our own faith, regardless of their level of commitment or activity.”
~Quentin L. Cook

Well, I better be on my way. I'm about to fall asleep at the keyboard. Eeek.

Love ya!
Onnie

June 20, 2011

Dad writes: (Skylar replies)

How are you, are things going ok in the Great state of Portland?WAY GOOD. WE KILLED A ROOSTER TODAY! BRO SIMMONS WAS TIARD OF IT WAKING HIM UP.. SO HE ASKED IF I WOULD GO AND KILL IT.. SO I DID.. IT WAS WEIRD.. HE SAID TO STEP ON THE HEAD AND PULL THE LEGS OUT.. I WILL SEND THE PICS.. IT WAS COOL.. THEN I CUT OFF HIS HEAD..
STILL TRYING TO DECIDE WHAT TO DO WITH THE BDAY CASH.. IVE READ MY BOOK.. ITS ONLINE.. SO I GO TO LDS TO READ IT.. I AM THINKING ABOUT GETTING A SWEET STRIPY SUIT.. OR SOME WEIGHTS.. IDK.. WHAT DO YOU THINK..
We are moving from the hot stage to who turned on the oven, had our 1st 110 day of the year last week and will be around that this week.
Looked like you were in the mid 70's, gotta love that, are you still getting rain?
How is the work going, any new prospects? NOTHING.. THE WORK IS SUPER DEAD.. IT IS SO AGRIVATING
Fun that you got to go back and speak at a baptism, that's how it gets done, we plant the seeds and if all goes as planed others bring the crops in.
How are things going with the companion, still bffs? FOR SURE!! I LOVE SCHOENFELD
Any big plans for today? SNUFFED A ROOSTER.. AND THATS ABOUT IT. STARTED P90X WORKOUT TODAY..
Hey did you happen to get Grandma's card with $? She is worried about it. I DID AND SENT A THANK YOU AND LETTER!
The ward did the big split yesterday and Castlegate is now in three different wards. Howell's and that area are in Creekside, North of the school is Castlegate, and our street south is in the new
Sierra vista ward. Big mix up of other wards to but It's all good, shows the grow that is happening and how things are always changing.
What are you eating, and are you being fed? YES I AM BEING FED ALLOT!! GOOD HAPPY DAY TO DELIGHT IN FATNESS
Is there anything that you need or are you still doing ok? I THINK I AM FINE.. I CHOSE TO GET A BUTTON EXTENDER AS OPPOSED TO GETTING NEW SHIRTS.. CHEAPER AND ALL
Any new Scriptures that you really like? MY FAVORITE CHAPTER IN ALL THE NEW TESTAMENT.. JOHN 21!!! I LOVE IT SO MUCH!!
How is your ward doing are they able to turn you to any new prospects? WE ARE WORKING ON IT BUT ITS NOT GOING TO WELL.. WE ARE TRYING TO GET THE WARD EXCITED THROUGH THE YOUTH
So what is you favorite time of day? BED TIME
Are you getting enough sleep, and how are you sleeping? OK I GUESS MELOTONIN HELPS.. SINCE I HAVE A VERY SET SCHEDULE FOR TIME THAT I CAN SLEEP.
Any new animal sightings, mom told you that we saw a big buck in Utah, and a mother duck passing with her lings, Kasey really liked that.
Hard to belive that it's half over, it just seem like you just left.
Kevin will be coming home soon, and so will Josh, How is Bo doing, have you been able to stay in touch? WE TALK ALLOT.. hE IS DOING GOOD. HE WRITE ME A 25 PAGE LETTER THAT IS IN THE MAIL.. I GUESS THATS THE SIGN OF A GOOD FRIEND. I HAVE AS STEADY OF CONTACT WITH HIM AS YOU.. I MISS HIM.. HE GETS BACK 6 WEEKS AFTER ME I GUESS.. THEN WE WORK OUR BUTS OF FOR COLLAGE CASH.. UGG...
What do you think, you next area will be or do you think they will keep you were you are for a while? IDK. NEW MISSION PRESIDENT IN 10 DAYS.. WHO KNOW WHAT WILL HAPPEN. IM SEVEARLY SCREWED IF I GO INTO LEADERSHIP..
Not much to report here we are all doing fine, Kylee just got back from trek and was glad to take a shower, I think she had a good time.
We will go to our new ward this week, the one we should be at, Brian Eldriedge was called to be the new cubmaster I think he will be great at it.
Well I will let you get on with your day, have a great week and I will talk to you soon.
Love you, Dad

LOVES!!! I AM SENDING YOU A SURPRISE OK!!

Birthday/Happy One Year Mark Box!

Just thought I'd share the pics of the box that was sent to Skylar. Thanks to everyone who sent their love and support!

Special thanks to Onnie for putting this all together... :D

k - so it all started with some teaser mail....some of you can't see the type cuz your pics are small so I'll type what it says under the pic....




Something fun is headed your way. We love you.




It's almost time. We love you.




It's time to celebrate. We wish we could party with you but since we can't here's a party in a box. Hooray. Happy Birthday and Congrats on one year in the mission field. We are so proud of you.
Love, Mom, Dad, Kylee, Kasey, Grandma, Pa, Grandma Pat, Uncle Steve, Aunt Kimm and family, Aunt Monique and family, Aunt Onnie and family, Jentry, Molly and family




Here's some of the goodies



Off it goes!

June 13, 2011

Skylar writes before we get an email off to him.....oh this kid is gonna eat crow for sure!

hey!!! well no email.. i am so unloved.. haha jk its all good. enjoy the wedin!! the week was good. i thought i would do something extreme for my year mark ... so i shaved my legs! and naired them.. it feels realy weird.. but i swear i picked up a few mph while rideing my bike. Thanks so much for the bday package!! i loved it.. but now i have to start running again because im gonna be a fatty.. and i will be woried about getting a fat wife and having a fat kid and it will just be me and 2 fatties...... (part from Baby Mama...so funny!)
so this crazy guy we tracted into said he was exed from the church for stuff he did in vietnam..i guess he hated deserters so much that he would shoot them in the leg so that they would have to stay and fight.. or die.. it was scary but i couldent help but chukle.. i am super insensitive.. i need to fix that. i thouht he was kidding at first.. bet all ended well. he gave us some elk meat to cook up.. i wil have to figure out how to throw that into an omlet..
umm.. we have officialy tracted out the entire area.. so i dont know exactly how we are going to find people to teach. wich reminds me.. .please make mormon.org profiles.. please....if you dont do it i will not be able to name my children after you.. its just the way things are..ether that or i will have to afix some punishment that is so crazy brutal that there will be none that can save you..... like i will fast and pray mightaly for you to be bishiop and for mom to be the rs president..
well... thats about it.. love you lots and take care!!

June 13, 2011

Mom writes: (but Skylar didn't get it in time....so I was chastized...)

Hey buddy!

What's up???

Normalities first....Weather? Companion? Baptisms? Critters?

So we just got back from Utah. It was a good visit. The weather was great.

I need to send you an SD card with pics on it so that you can load them and see them.....temple pics and stuff.

So did you get any "special" mail here recently???? hmmmmm

Let's see what else.....

So Jentry and Nichole are off honeymooning in Columbia....no reservations or plans....just 2 weeks doing whatever happens to come their way. I'm having heart palpitations just thinking about it.....I need a little more structure than that....(who me???)

Dad says to tell you that he saw a big ol' buck in Utah.....I don't know what it is about his side of the family and their "wildlife".....c'mon seriously???? It's a deer. ya seen one you seen 'em all! But OK.....he thinks it was a 4 point...it's so weird to see them mixed in with businesses and stuff....just out there hangin' out....grubbin' and such.

Congrats on your One Year! The time really has flown by. We have seen first hand the blessings from your decision to serve. Thanks buddy!

k - just got an email from Onnie FW of your mail so you must be online....I'll send this so you get it...

We love you!

Momma

....and then he replies.....

i got yours and the big box.. i am happy to send cards and i have thank yous.. but i just need a little guidance on whats what.. i am sending a thankyou to the davises.. but if you see them first let them know that i love and miss them.. especialy lala!!
just had a baptism. we taught him but its in the other ward.. lame!! and i got invited beack to speak at a baptism of a guy i taught in portland.. i never thought he would make it.. but he did!! and he thanked me for the tough love.
so.. i hope it dosent seem like i am ungreatful or trying to dip out on thank yous.. i think i might just put the thank yous together and leave them to the mama to get delivered.. so that i know they get there.. have they gotten any letters from me? i sent one at christmas to aunt pat and mike.. and to aunt Kris.. but i have no way of knowing if they got there...

June 3, 2011

Mom writes:

hatch a bird egg on you.
hatch a bird egg on you.
hatch a bird egg on Skyyyyylaaaaarrrrrr.
hatch a bird egg on you.

Don't know if you're checking emails today or not...
But just in case!

We sent a box...but of course it won't be there on time...I wonder how long the mission office holds mail before they send it out to you guys??? Do you know???

k - hope you have a great day!

We love you! (well they do...I don't)

June 6, 2011

Dad writes: (Skylar replies)

How was Your Birthday? Did you get to eat cake? BIRTHDAY WAS GOOD. NO CAKE BUT I DID GO TO RED ROBINS FOR DINNER.. MY LOVING COMP. TOLD THE MEMBER THAT TOOK US THAT IS WAS MY 'BIRTHDSY AT THE RESTURAUNT.. AND HE HAD THE STAFF SING TO ME.. AND I GOT ICECREAM... IT WAS PRETTY MUCH THE MOST EMBARRASSING THING IN THE WORLD.. BUT IT WAS KIND OF FUN
How was your week, anything new to report? UMM........ SINGING IS GOING BETTER.. STILL NO GOOD WORK GOING ON. BUT WE ARE TRYING TO GET IT PICKING UP.. WETHER IS GETTING HOT.. I AM SUCH A WIMP FOR HEAT NOW..
We are all doing well here and are getting ready for the trip to Utah this week.
They released us form our callings and the Stake is going to do the ward realignments on fathers day, so I guess we will change wards then, and come to
The new ward, It starts at 8:00 am and you mom and sisters are not thrilled about it.
They will be adding a new ward to the stake and it looks like Castlegate will be split 3 ways.
How is the work going any new prospects? NADA
Is the weather getting nicer there yet? It is getting hot here.
Do you have anything plan for to day, is it a cleaning day. NOT REALY. THERES NOTHING TO CLEAN.. I GOT RID OF ALLOT OF STUFF I DIDENT NEED.. AND I AM JUST TRYING TO SIMPLIFY LIFE AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE.
how's the bike and companion holding up, your not riding either one to hard I hope. HAHA. I LOVE IT.. GOOD BIKE AND COMP.. WE DONT EVER FIGHT.. NOT ONCE.. WE DEBATE ALL THE TIME BUT NOTHING AGGRESSIVE
When do you get a new pres. ? IN 4 WEEKS
Are you still eating well? VERY WELL!!
What is your favorite food right now. UM. I LOVE THESE SMOKED PORK SAMDWICHES FROM THE MEMBERS PORK SHOP!! 3 BUCKS GOR A MISSIONARY SIZED MEAL AT A SPECIAL MISSIONARY PRICE..
How was the trip to guitar center, are you still able to play and what's you favorite song. I AM PLAYING A FEW OF MY FAVORITE SONGS.. (JAMIE RAE, SHAMELESS, CURSE FO CURVES) FOR PLAYING AT GUITAR STORES..
Rush is coming back to town, but you mom won't go, so I'll pass until you get back.
Are you sleeping well? YA/ BUT IM RUNNING OUT OF MELLOTONIN
Do you have any major concerns or is it all going well? UM.. SCARED THAT ITS ABOUT HALF OVER.. I AM SINGING THE TENOR PART IN WARD CHOIR. I AM SCARED BECAUSE I AM THE ONLY ONE SINGING IT.
Grandma and Pa are leaving for Utah today and Onnie and Scott are Flying up on Wednesday. It will be fun to see family and to go to the temple.
What have you been doing with your spare time or is there any? SINGING. THATS MY ONLY PASS TIME.. IN THE SHOWER. AT LUNCH. PDAY.. I AM GOING TO MAKE MY DREAM OF PLAYING ON WARPED TOUR COME TRUE.. NO MATER WHAT IT TAKES!! EXCEPT FOR MARRIGE AND EDUCATION. BUT THEY WORK WITH THE GOAL..
I built Levi and Lil a run and put in a doggy door so they can be home alone, the seem to be getting the hang of it again, It took Lil three days to poop in it.
The girls are doing good and Kylee is working alot, getting ready for the Utah trip and Trek.OMG!! TREAK IS SO SWEET!! I
Well I hope you had a great birthday, Grandma called and sang Hatch a Bird egg to me for you, so I'm passing that along to you.
Love you and am glad that your out there doing what the lord would have you do at this point in your life I know that it will bring a lifetime of blessings to you
And all your family. Keep up the good work and I'll talk to you soon. Love ya buddy. Dad
LOVES!!!


Onnie writes:

Hello to you!

How are you? Did you have a good b-day? I attached a picture of Kaelyn, your "birthday twin" while we were singing to her. I think she had a great day. Hope you did too. Wow, you are coming up on one year this week--it's all downhill from here! Good for you.

Things here have been really good. Last week was a very busy week, and this one looks to be busy too. We are heading to SLC for Jentry's wedding this week. It should be really great. I'll try to remember and send you a pic. I had a great visit with your dad this past week, and the kids had fun with Kasey. I only got to see your mom and Kylee briefly, but all seemed well. The shop is darling, and it was BUSY when I was in there, so that's a great sign.

Okay, now for the drill:

Do you wear a hat or helmet when you are on your bike? HELMAT ALL THE WAY The kids want to know if you have the pictures they drew for you hanging up? I HAVE THEM IN A FOLDER. I TRY NOT TO HANG UP TO MUCH STUFF..
The kids also want to know if you ring your bike bell often? IT IDOSENT GO ON THE ROAD BIKE.. IT AM STILL TRYING TO FIGURE TAT ONE OUT

What did you have for dinner last night? ROAST BEEF AND POTATOS
Having been out one year, do you feel smarter than this time last year? I ACTUALY DO!!!
How is the singing going? PRETTY GOOD.. DO YOU TEACH THAT?? ANY TIPS? I AM BREATHING RIGHT BUT IM NOT SURE WHAT ELSE I CAN DO.. IT SOUNDS LIKE I GET SOMTHING CAUGHT IN MY THROAT..
Did you have cake for your b-day? NO
Who do you go on splits with? THE OTHER MISSIONARIES IN THE DISTRICT
Which woman from the scriptures do you most admire? EVE! THE MOTHER OF ALL.

This is such a great quote--hope you love it too:

"You can’t be right by doing wrong; you can’t be wrong by doing right. Your personal conscience always warns you as a friend before it punishes you as a judge."
~ Richard G. Scott

Skylar, we are so proud of you. The work you are doing is so important, and you are exactly where the Lord would have you be. You will never regret these two years of your life. Enjoy your last year as a full-time missionary. Uncle Scott says it goes way too fast.

We love you!
Onnie

LOVES!!

Transfers

May 30, 2011

Dad writes:

How was your week?
Are you ready for another Birthday? You know that they get here faster and faster the older you get, so you know at my age it seems like it's always my birthday.
You know it doesn't seem that long ago we were playing PieRats and you were jumping around in your feetsy PJs and playing your guitar. We'll time never stands still
And all we get to keep all those memories and the Knowledge that we obtain.
How are things going, with the work, any new prospects?
How are things going with the companion, still well I hope.
It still looks like you are getting rain and cool weather, it's been warm here but I wouldn't call it hot yet, not for this time of year.
Do you remember Tommy Gannon from the old ward? He's serving in Japan.
The ward should split soon and I think that I'm ready, we had pack meeting Thursday and the did a video thank you for me, of course I cried, you known me long?
Brody Yost got his arrow of light, He has grown so much, I remember when we had to give him his awards after pack meeting, so shy, the church and It's programs
Are amazing a building young men and you know how I feel about the scout program. It teaches us to do hard things, even the adults. You think I would have stood
in front of people and act like a goof if it weren't for the callings I have had in the church.
Well enough about my raves, any plans for the day?
Any new animal sightings?
Out a year, can you belive it?
So weird that we will be back in Utah at the same time, we dropped you of at the MTC.
Do you need anything?
How are you sleeping?
When is your next transfer?
Remember the fallen and all those who have sacrificed to keep this country free, What an amazing place and time to be on the earth, how blessed we are.
What are you reading now.
Well I better let you get on with your day, I have a fence to build and better get with it.
Have a great week and a Happy Birthday and I'll talk to you soon.
Love you

Dad

Skylar writes:

this week has been way good! i am glad that we survived transfers! we are staying here for another 6 weeks! shonefeld is way cool. we are going to do some singing practice today.. that and rest up for the week. we are going to tear it up this transfer. not much to report.. i had to get a fitted sheet and a toothbrush.. and i am going to be needing slacks for the summer. i found some that i like but i will get them later when i get some bday money.. it sounds like everything is going good at home. i love my flash drive it is sweet. i will send you guys some pics. and if you send me some i can save them. i am sleeping well and am eating well as well.. all is well. question though?? do i have a plaque. (all the missionaries have a plaque in the foyer at the church building) and if so what scripture is on it? i never remember giving one.. everything pre-mission is foggy. well boring week i guess. nothing to report. but i will talk to you guys later..
loves!!


Onnie writes:

Hi There!

Happy Memorial Day! How are you doing? Hope you have had a great week and that things are going well up there in the pacific northwest. Hey--you're turning 20 this week! So HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!!

Things here are going well. We have had a pretty busy long weekend. Scott and I were called to attend girls camp with the 4th year girls (they have a different set of requirements than the other yw) so we headed up north on Saturday to take a look at where we could camp with them and where we could take them canoeing as well. It was a busy weekend to do that, but I think we found what we were looking for. My kids are officially out of school now--let the chaos begin! I hope we all survive the summer. Eeek!

Some questions for you:

Where do you check your email in this new area? the church computers
How is the personal progress coming? it has been done and awarded for a month now!!
Are there any areas in your mission that are close to the ocean? ya.. we have astoria and seaside and long beach.
Is it still raining every day? yuppurs
How often do you vacuum? every week
Who inspects your apartment for cleanliness? the stake building rep.
Do you have to see a doctor for a check-up ever? nope.
If you could meet a general authority today who would you choose to meet? Holland

Now a quick quote:
"The Lord calls upon us to be beacons of righteousness to guide those who seek the safety and blessings of Zion."
~D. Todd Christofferson

We love you! Have a great week and enjoy your b-day!
Onnie

loves!!!!!!!!

E-mail!

May 23, 2011

Mom writes:

Hey buddy!

It's mom...

'sup?

Regular questions......weather...companion....prospects.....scheduled baptisms.....critter sightings......

Not a whole lot going on here. Store is doing ok. Not pulling a profit but sales are up....so guess we'll see there.

Starting to get hot....expecting our first 100 degree day this week.....so now's the time you're gonna start liking Oregon.

Getting ready to head up to Utah for Jentry's wedding. Should be fun. We will be there on the 9th...funny how that works out.....can't believe it's been a year.

Everyone around here is in mourning over the ward realignment. Any day now. We checked into our new ward. It's the Ironwood Crossing ward. They start at 8:00 a.m. YUK!! No bueno! Course if this is our biggest challenge we face to test our faith.....I'll take it! Much better than what others have had to face.

It's the last week of school for the girls....so Kasey is gonna be so bored!!!! Glad she's made some friends next door.

Kylee is....well....Kylee. She seems to like her job. They threw a little party for her birthday....she was emberrased...but she liked it at the same time. 'course there were customers in the store so it was a TAD bit awkward...rightly so

Dad's letters are much better. Sorry. I'm not good a making conversation. All the momma wants to know is how you're doing.....eating well...sleeping well.....enjoying the work....what do you need?

k - go answer everyone's emails....

be safe

love you...sort of...not really.....

:D

momma



Skylar replies:


well.. its good to hear from you too mom. you should send these every week. i can get 2 perspectives on how things are going.. you threw a bday bash in the store? how weird.
so my news.. grama has been sending me money and i havent had anything to do with it.. is i bought a portable hard drive to store everything i get from the mission.. Emails..pics..books. talks.. i have like all the church media from the members we live with.. i guess i was ok with it because i figured i would use it after the mission as well. a member at target got us the discount.. and theres no tax here.. not looking forward to that when i get home.. it was 50 bucks.. evrrything smaller was liek 20 and 30 bucks and i dident want to just have to get more space.. so i spent the extra 20 and got 750 gigs.... not quite leike you tera.. that was 100.. i couldent justify that....
umm.. oh ya.. dont send the book if you havent bought it.. we have powells books.. its like the biggest new and used book store i have evers seen and it has a whole mormon section there for mormons.. so i can get it allot cheaper than the 60 bucks at deseret.. and i get 10% off at deseret anyways... just thinkin.. the mission has uped my money management so much.. i have mastered living off of 120 a month.. i think i will live like that at home and save money for collage..
everything else is fine.. working hard.. studies blow my mind.. the gospel is making allot of sense and makes me think about learning pysics and teaching religious history.
companion is sweet.. this is the last email of the transfer.. pray we dont get moved we love it here!!!!! no move!!!! no move!!!
oh and lisa a girl we are teaching just got baptized!!!


Onnie writes: (Skylar replies)

Hi, Hello and how do you do?

How's my favorite missionary? I hope you are GREAT!

Things here are good. We just had stake conference with as, always was wonderful. We have a new stake presidency--all such good men. The organization of the church is amazing! Scott is keeping busy with work, and the kids are great. Casen had a fun week last week and is now out for summer. Kelsey finished up school this week. Kaelyn is talking so much! She is so funny. Hopefully you got the pics I sent from Disneyland. Scott and I got to go to the temple with a couple of recent converts for baptisms for the dead on Friday--so cool...

A few things to ask:

When is your next temple trip? IN 3 MONTHS :(
Where is your comp from? HIGHLAND UT
How often do you do splits? EVERY WEEK.. HE IS THE DL
How are your shoes holding up? ALL TO WELL!! ALL TO WELL
Have you cleaned your fridge lately? NOPE HAHA. WILL DO THOUGH
What is your favorite meeting? STAKE PRESIDENTS COULNCIL.. IT MAKE ME FEEL LIKE I HAVE A INFLUANCE OVER THE STAKE AND ALL THE PEOPLE IN IT.. ITS A BIG RESPONSABILITY BUT ITS A COOL THING TO THINK ABOUT
When you tract do you play any games with your comp? NO WE JUST TALK DOCTRINE.. I LOVE DOCTINAL QUESTIONS. THEY ARE MY FAVORITE
If you could meet anyone from the old testament who would it be?ENOCH... OR ADAM..

And from the new testament (besides Christ himself)? UMM. JOHN THE BAPTIST.. MARK.. I FEEL LIKE HE HAD A GOSPEL THAT IS SPECIFICALY UNIQUE.. AND PAUL

Well, I was looking around at the LDS.org site and found this quote. It's a cool one. I'm so glad to be married to a valiant priesthood holder. He is a great man and blesses my life daily because he honors his priesthood. Skylar, the most important thing you can do for your future family is to be a great priesthood holder, and a great missionary now. The lessons you are learning now will be ones you will use daily as a husband and father. It's wonderful that the Lord has given you this opportunity to learn and grow. Make the most of it and be sure to write your experiences down--you will need to be reminded of them later on, and will be so glad you have them recorded.

~“As you read the scriptures and listen to the words of the prophets with all your heart and mind, the Lord will tell you how to live up to your priesthood privileges.”
—President Dieter F. Uchtdorf


Serve well, and work hard--you will never regret that you did!
Love,
Onnie
LOVES!!!

Funny kid!

May 16, 2011

Dad writes: (Skylar replies)

How was your week? It was great to talk to you on Mothers day and hear that you are doing so well, The people of Portland are lucky to have you
And think how blessed your life will be from serving so faithfully. The weather here is getting hot so you might be glad to be there through the summer.
How are you doing with the French, and are you able to ask where the bathroom is yet. You know that can be the most Important question that you
May ever ask. What's new there? NOTHING MUCH JUST KEEPIN ON KEEPIN ON,,, NO FRENCH YET SILL REALLY BUSY TRYING TO GET THE WORK IN THE AREA MOVING.
Joe Maldenado got his call, He is going to Guatemala City, North mission.
Vance is going to Paraguay. YA HE SENT ME AN EMAIL!! GOOD FOR HIM
The ward is going to have a re alignment and the whole ward is in fits over it. TELL THEM TO PULL UP THEIR DRESSES AND DEAL WITH IT.. MANY A PROBLEM CAN BE SOLVED WITH IT..
The girls are about out of school for the summer, and over all things are going good here.
Worked at the cannery last week, it was fun, we bottled peach jam.
The grandparents survived the trip to Cali, and they didn't even go to the Hospital, But Kelsey had to go the insta-care, she had strep-throat.
Sounds like they all had a good time.
Do you have any new prospects? NO.... BUT SOON!!! I CAN JUST FEEL IT!!!
Any new animal sightings? NOPE
We are building a fence for Levi and Lil, the will be glad to go out when they want to and not when they talk me in to walking them.
Just remember dads rule, if it eats or craps we don't bring it home. WHAT ABOUT A WIFE??? IS THAT OK?? SHE CAN STAY IN MY ROOM AND I WILL FEED HER AND GIVE HER WATER AND PLAY WITH HER.. PLEASE!!!PLEASE!!PLEASE!!! I REALY WANT ONE!!!
Any plans for the day? NA.. I JUST GOT PENS SO.. OFF THE BDAY LIST.. BUT I WOULD LIKE VAN HUSEN SHIRTS.. ATHLETIC FIT 16 NECK!!
How's the companion? HE IS A HUGE JERK!!! I HATE HIM AND HOPE THAT WE STAY COMPANIONS FOR THE REST OF MY MISSION.... HAHA. I LOVE HIM.. WE HAVE TOO MUCH FUN!!
Do you need anything? THE SHIRTS.. I MIGHT BE GETTING BIKE REPAIRS.. JUST PREVENTATIVE MATINANCE.. WE DEFINITLY NEED TO BRING IT HOME. HAHA IT WILL BE MY MODE OF TRANSPORTATION SICE MY CAR WILL BE TOTALED IM SURE haha jk
Read your scriptures.
Don't forget to pray.
DO YOUR BEST.
What's the scout law, oath, motto, and slogan- live by them and you'll do ok.
Love you buddy, have a great week, and I'll talk to you soon.
Love Dad
THAKYOU SO MUCH!!! HAVE A GOOD WEEK!!


Onnie writes: (Skylar replies)


Hi Skylar!

Hope you are doing well. It was so fun to talk to you on Mom-day. You sounded so good!

Things here are going well. We had a great trip to Disneyland--just got back Friday. The kids LOVED it and it was so much fun to see their excitement for everything. I will send you some pics as soon as we get settled here again. Yesterday we had the opportunity to attend the temple marriage of one of the young women I was over. It was such a neat experience. Her new husband seems so sweet and they are a darling couple. We felt so blessed to share that day with them. We are also very excited to attend Jentry's wedding here very soon. The temple is such a blessing and I have a strong testimony of forever families and the power of the marriage covenant--it's awesome!!! This week looks to be busy for us as Casen has end of the year school activities, we say goodbye to some dear friends who are moving and have an unexpected stake conference. Our stake presidency is being reorganized and because Uncle Scott sits on the high council he has an appointment to meet with the visiting general authority. The General authority will pick the new stake president from a group of about 15-20 men--exciting stuff.

Well some questions for you:

How many pairs of socks do you have? I JUST GOT 4 PAIRS TODAY!!
Is it still raining? NO IT IS SUNNY TODAY.. BUT THE RAIN WILL BE BACK IM SURE
Who is your favorite person in your new area? ELDER SHONEFELD!! AND THE RAFAHIS!!
Does your companion snore? NOPE!!!
Now that you are living with members--what time do you have to be home at night?SAME TIME 9
Do you have a separate living area from them? YA WE LIVE IN TEH BASEMENT.. WE CALL IT OUTER DARKNESS
If you had the opportunity to meet Joseph Smith and he could take you to one spot and answer your questions about what happened there--where would you have him take you??? KIRKLAND TEMPLE..

Now a quote:

“May we show our love and appreciation for the Savior’s atoning sacrifice through our simple, compassionate acts of service.”

—Elder M. Russell Ballard


We love you! Take care.

Onnie
LOVES!!

Letter to the Mission President

Hello President,

This week has been epic.. we got our 20 hours of trating we have been shooting for and are looking to replicate it.. We only got to teach one lesson to Lisa. She set a date and we are STOKED!!!! she wants this for her and her daughter. I know that it will be a life changing thing for them.
We are striving to set up appointments but we are not having any luck.. we are seeking referals dilligently and are rummaging through the formers and potentials but still are not having any luck. I feel great nonetheless. I think its because with the 20 hours i feel like its ok because i can go to sleep on sunday night knowing that i have done everything i could. so we just press forward!!
I am doing Great.. studying and thinking allot more about what i am reading.. i am focusing on my prepration to teach the lessons and not just the fundamentals. I am doign that by deepening my understanding on the principals. I am trying to milk the mission for all that it is worth. letting it be my school for eternity.. I have thought allot about that this week. I have concluded that obediance is excercise for the rest of my life.. i am developing the habit of doing what the lord tells me to do.. thus preparing me for exaultation. returning and reporting stats are helping me to understand that these principals of charity and obediance and accounting are eternal principals.. whenever i wander away from these i am retarding my progress and putting off things that i will have to know eventualy anyways. just some thoughts haha.
Elder Schonefeld is a beast!! i love working with him! he is as dilligent as they come and he is willing to work side by side with me. I think the fact that we have bolth struggled in our missions and had less-desirable companions we know what it takes to be a good companion and how to make it work.

p.s. : since this is the letter you will probably read to me in our interview i would like to as a few Q's : one is about goals, an investigator is someone who has been taught and kept a commitment. and zero is not a goal. is it realistic to set a goal foe 1 new investigator if you dont have anyone that can fit in that critiria? if you find someone they wont be an investiagator till you call and find out if they read. just asking... and the other was about comp inventory.. In my past three companionships i have found that it is a struggle. I think allot of missionaries struggle with this because they dont understand how it cam be effective.. I would be greatful for a little guidence on how to make it effective? please...

thank you in advance,
Elder White

May 2, 2011

Skylar writes:

THIS WEEK WAS WAY GOOD.. I WAS REFLECTING ON MY MISSION ALLOT AND THINKING ABOUT WHAT I HAVE LEARNED.. WELL I HAVE A PERSONAL PROGRESS
THING. I CAN MAKE OMLETS AND IM GETTIN DANG GOOD AT IT. I GOT THE PACKAGE AND I LOVED IT!! THELL CATHY THANKS! IM SHORT ON TIME SO I WILL TALK TO YOU GUYS SOON!!


Dad writes: (Skylar replies)

How was your week? WEEK WAS GREAT!!! I LOVE MY COMP AND LOVE HOPE TRANSFERS DOSENT HAPPEN!!
The weather was great here this weekend and I got alot of yard work done.
How are things going there any new prospects? NO BUT WE ARE WORKING ON IT
What do you know about your call for Mothers Day? CAN YOU SEND ME THE NUBER.. AND I WILL GET IT ON THURSDAY.. AND I WILL CALL AT 330
How have you been feeling? AWESOME!! GETTING A COLD BUT NO BIGGIE!! I AM HAVIN THE TIME OF MY LIFE
Well how about the news on Bin Ladine, Its hard not to be happy he's gone but I always think that he's still one of our fathers children. (...and now he's fish food!)
It looked like you were still getting rain and snow in your state, is it warmer and wet or just wet.
What is your favorite thing about your new area? UMM. MY COMP.. LIVEING WITH MEMBERS.. COOL MEMBERS!! YA.
Is there anything but house around your area, I googled it but I'm not sure I was in the right area.UMM YA EVERYTHING! PANDA. TACO BELL. MCDS..
How's your companion?
How is the Spanish going are you learning any or do you even need to? Does you companion speak Spanish? NO HE DOSENT BUT IM LEARNING MORE FRENCH THAN ANYTHING THE MEMBER WE LIVE WITH TEACHES IT
Grandma and Pa should be released soon. That was quick.
what's new, anything?
Kylee started her job on Friday, I think she likes it,
What are your plans for the day? LAZER TAG!!! AND PLAYING GUITARS
What are you reading right now. UM MOSIAH ITS SUPER SWEET!!
How are you doing on the teaching, do you feel like the spirit is helping you convey the message. WE ARNT TEACHING REALY NO PEOPLE!!!
Dallin is at the MTC, I'll have Mom get you the Info.
How is the new place, are you liking it there.
What can we send you to , snack on? UMM.. IDK I WILL LET YOU KNOW..
Well I will save some Questions for when you call so have a great week and know we love you and
That we are all proud of you.

Love Dad



Onnie writes: (Skylar replies)

Hello to you!

I hope you have had a great week, and that the springtime in OR is glorious!

We have had a rough week. Marley (our dog) died in a terrible accident. Our family has really had a hard time. It's amazing how animals become part of the family. We have really prayed a lot and have felt peace from our Heavenly father. Prayer is such a gift. And so is the knowledge of the gospel and our Father's plan. I was very grateful to be able to tell our kids that every creature is precious to our Heavenly Father and that all will resurrect.

We are excited to have a trip to Disneyland coming up! And the kids have lots of fun stuff with school coming up too.

Well here are a few questions:
Is it still really rainy? YES.. BUT WE MIGHT GET A BREAK.. SUMMER IS SOPOSED TO BE ON A THURSDAY THIS YEAR
How is it living with members? I LOVE IT TO DEATH IT MAKES LIFE ALLOT EISIER.
Do you get to see old companions often?NO.. MUST OF MINE HAVE GONE HOME AND THE OTHERS THERE IS NO DESIRE TO SEE
How many wards are you serving in now? STILL ONLY ONE
Are you in a new stake? YES I AM
Any favorite spots in your new area? UM.. THE GUITAR STORE

Since this week was especially hard on me, Scott sent me a great quote. I thought I'd share it with you too:

Elder Maxwell said:

“…God will not withhold from us certain growing experiences that He, in His infinite wisdom, allows us to undergo for our eternal benefit. His timetable, if followed, prepares us incrementally for the journey of discipleship and for going home.”

Have a great week! We love you!
Onnie

April 25, 2011

Skylar writes:

MOM MOM MOM MOM MOMMY MOMMY MOMMY MOMMY CHERI CHERI CHERI CHERI!!!!
HEY SIT DOWN AND TYPE OUT YOUR FLIPPIN CONVERSION STORY!!!!
PLEASE AND THANK YOU

LOVES!!!

Mom writes:

mwa mwa mwa mwamwa...(Charlie Brown noise)


Skylar writes:

i run into all kids of different testimonies out here.. i dident realy mean that.. i just dident know how to react.. i was a stupid kid.. now im a stupid adult.. things a different.. and this kind of stuff is important to discuss. im going to be a father someday and im going to need to know how your faith influanced the way i was raised..i understand that in our house we had a different way of worship.. thats ok. our family is new to the gospel. that is bound to happen. but i have seen the differance that it makes when children hear their parents testimonies. i know that it can sound chezzy and cliche' but it makes a differance.. i remember when i went into the mtc i felt like everyone was the biggest loosers.. i definitly dident center my life on the gospel. i did not like the way people were.. but i learned that people were just happy with what they had found.. they talk about the gospel because it is a focus in their lifes.. i always avoided it because it was not something that i liked.. i wanted out really bad.. but the next day we went to the temple and it really sunk in that this is the real deal. this is it.. (this is the way. and there is none other way nor name given under heaven wereby salvation cometh.. only in and threw the name of Christ) this mean that it is normal to rejoice in Christ.. it is great once you embrace it.. being half in the door will give you the "sqish just like grape" after that i realized that i needed to have the knowledge that it was true.. i had read and prayed and went with the flow. but i needed to have the drive..
Quick discorse:
in the Preexistance there were many who chose not to follow Christs plan.. the true origional is was a lack of faith in Christ. those spirits never had the opertunity to come to earth.. they have limeted their agency. now, lets face it.. all the pretty frilly doctrine asside we are here for one purpose.. to become like God. we desire to live forever with him and expiriance the lifestyle he has.. we want to be happy. there were some in the preexistance who did not know exactly how to be happy. they chose to follow Christ. possibly just because the alternative did not seem appealing. this life is a time to sort out the fence-sitters. who realy want to become like God? and who is just takeing the path of least resistance.. well seing as how saten only took a 1/3 part. coming to earth may very well have been the path of least resistance.

now.. i did as my mamma always told me.. and that was never cross the same line twice.. do what you do and do it all the way.. "if your gonna swear just do it!! but you better not'- mamma cheri

so i prayed and prayed and did all the stuff that i felt was stupid.. reading...praying.. paying attention in church... i lived by the scripture(if any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine)
i went all out. and if i dident feel satisied and like it made my life better in 2 weeks i was going home. and i was done with the church.. i went on a mission to find a purpose for life... i found it!! if had any doubt that this was true there would be no incentive to be here. there would be no reason to do anything but drink myself into oblivion and just ride out my life with no agency.. no agency because there would be no choice for eternal life... that would suck... allot..
but the reality is that there is something to hope for.. there is an eternal goal. there is a reason to rejoice.. there is a reason to give it our all.. resurection is not a fix all. our spiritual progression is not set because we are resurected.. just because our bodies are perfect does not mean that our testimonies are. we need to make sure that we are being valiant in our testimonies.. not im not calling anyone out.. only we threw christ can evaluate that and make that call. the question to ask is.. am i doing everything that i can to fully convert myself.. as a parent i hope that i will be able to answer the questions i am asking you and dad. i feel like i have missed out on so many years of spiritual guidance from you guys..(not you faults) i never asked or listened.. i just want to catch up.
i a none threatening non argumentative, non judgemental way..

so yeah.. love you!!

Letter from Bro. Howell

April 20, 2011

Here is the email I sent Elder Skybuck.

Cam


Elder White,


Your letter to your family was awesome, please copy me on those anytime you can so that I can stay in the loop and feel of your great spirit. Sounds like you are doing amazing, a good companion makes all the difference (now you can see why some husbands are miserable and some are happy all the time—it is all in the companion that you are with) J Sorry for the marriage humor. Well life here has been awesome, I really appreciated the Red Post Card congratulating us on Blake. He is doing really good and starting to grow and pretty soon we will start working on PMG with him. (and the chip shot too).

The Quorum is doing really well, Cody should have his call any minute and Bishop just sent me a text saying that Joe’s papers have arrived at Church Headquarters. Dallin is ready to rock and pretty soon the quorum is going to be completely different. It already feels different because we have 10 members in the quorum and a lot of them are just 16. They have really stepped up to the plate and are participating the way that they should. We are heading to the Temple tonight to see the Easter Pageant, I wish you were here to join us but I’m sure you wouldn’t be able to sit still-- you would be out talking to all the non-members and trying to share the gospel.

Well don’t shed a tear but the Chrysler 300 is gone, I traded it in for a 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee and I must say that I am a happier man. Of course it is all dark with Black leather so that I can keep my mafia thing going.

Take luck and keep up the good work! Sure love you bud!

Brother Howell

New area

April 25, 2011

Skylar writes:

hey guys new area rocks!!! Elder Shonefeld and myself are tearing it up!! it looks like the last elders left us a mess but thats ok!! we are prepared for it. we started teching some investigators and we have a goal to have a new one this week!\
So yesterday i went back to mt. scott for Taylors Baptism.. her mom and her bf came and picked us up.. the distance was like them going to globe to pick me up! a heca far way but she said that i just could not miss it or she would kill me!! I love cassie so much. i have loved teaching her and her family.. so.. i was telling her about how she needs to get married in the temple.. (she hates marrige) and she finaly said she would pray about it.. and guess what!! she is getting maried in themple on her year mark!!! and i will still be in the mission!!!! so i get to go to that as well! and for her ring cerimony she is doing a totaly hardcore reception at wich she wants to mix up traditions.. so insted of brides maids she is haveing best men.. and i guess i am one of them.. fun stuff! the Filer Family has realy made me see what a mission is all about.
One of our investigators in the book has a teaching record that says that they are training for the olympics.. but they arnt sure witch olympics!! haha.. and the family for little people big world are here in my area.. yes we will baptize them!! so if we teach them you might see me on tv.. just a fyi



Dad writes: (Skylar replies)

Well how is the new area going, and tell us all about your new companion? HE IS SUPPER SWEET!! WE HAVE ALLOT OF FUN AND GET GOOD WORK DONE. WE HAVE A COMPANIONSHIP IN THE DISTRICT THAT IS REALY STRUGGLEING GETTING ALONG.. AND THEY WANT TO NOT DEAL WITH IT AND EXCHANGE EVERY WEEK. LUCELY WE BOLTH HAVE EXPIRIANCE IN THIS FIELD SO WE ARE GOING ON ONE EXCHANGE AND HEARING THE DIFFERENT SIDES OF THE STORY.. THEN WE ARE HAVING A INTERVENTION.. AFTER THAT WE ARE TELLING THEM TO JUST "PULL UP THEIR SKIRTS AND DEAL WITH IT" AS IT WERE
How did the baptism go this weekend were you able to get back for it? SEE ABOVE
How was your Easter, ours was good and we had the best Easter program that I think I have ever been to, you could sure feel
That the spirit was there in abundance. The music was amazing.
So tell me all about your new companion, where is he from, what are his hobbies and how long has he been out? HE IS FROM HIGHLAND UT.. BEEN OUT 14 MONTHS AND HE LIKE GUITAR AND SINGING(WE ARE SPENDING LIKE ALL DAY AT GUITAR CENTER TODAY) AND HE UTILIZES ME VERY MUCH.. THE MISSION HAS TURNED MY BRAIN INTO A STEEL TRAP.. I ALREADY KNOW THE AREA AND ALL THE MEMBERS OF THE DISTRICT AND THERE AREAS AND NOTS ON THEM.. I LIKE BEING ABLE TO HAVE A SAY IN THE DISTRICT.. WITHOUT THE RESPONSABILITY
New area new chance for animal sightings, any to report.
So how is the new bike working out? You said it's shinny but that's not the part that gets you around, is it good at that? OH YA.. ITS A ROAD BIKE!! NUCE HANDLEBARS. I NEED TO TRUE UP THE RIMS AND CHANGE THE CABLES FOR THE SUMMER BUT OTHER THAN THAT ITS ALL GOOD!! I HAVE A KRIPTONITE LOCK!!
How about a good lock?
What are your plans for Pday? SEE ABOVE
Are you getting settled in at the new ward? I LOVE IT!! AND THEY LOVE US! THEY ARE HAPPY TO HAVE MISSIONARIES THAT WILL WORK. WE WERE WELCOMED VERY WARMLY.. WE STARTED TO GET THE L TOM PERRY PLAN MOVING.. WE TOLD THE AUXILLARYS TO DO IT.. IN A NICE LOVEING WAY.. THEY DIDENT WANT TO.. AND I WAS FED UP WITH WARDS NOT DOING IT.. SO I SAID "I KNOW IT SOUNDS HARD BUT ITS REALLY NOT.. AND WE HAVE BEEN DIRECTED TO DO IT BY AND APOSTLE OF THE LORD AND BY REVELATION.. IT IS YOUR CALLING TO CARRY THIS PLAN OUT AND SUPPORT IT WHOLEHEARTEDLY" I WAS FREAKING OUT AFTER THAT... I COULD NOT BELIVE THAT I HAD JUST CALLED OUT THE WARD ON MY FIRST SUNDAY.. THE BISIOP JUST STARED FOR A MINUETE AT THE WALL AND SAID... "THE ELDER IS RIGHT.. WE NEED TO DO IT..." I WAS SO RELIVED. HE PULLED ME ASIDE AND SAID THAT HE WAS GLAD THAT WE WERE WILLING TO DO THE HARD THING AND SAY WHAT NEEDED TO BE SAID.. WE GAIED HIS TRUST AND THE TRUST OF THE WARD... ELDER WHITE WINS!!!! CHINIESE FIGHT STYLE
How is it living with Members? IT IS SWEET!! THEY ARE SO COOL.. I AL NOW LEARNING FRENCH AND GEARMAN.. HE TECHES BOTH.. AND THE KITCHEN HAS ALL THE LITTLE GIZMOS AND GADGETS WE NEED.. JUST HAVE TO MAKE IT LOOK LIKE WE DONT EXIST.. (THAT JUST MEANS TO CLEAN UP OUR CRAP)
What is your new email time or do you have access in the new place. YOU SOULD HAVE EMAILS IN BY SUNDAY NIGHT TO BE SURE THAT I GET THEM..
I have been trying to do as much service as I can and it has been alot of fun, I am getting to see different workings of some of the churches programs
It's really amazing how things get done. THAT IS SO SWEET.. READ ELDER EYRINGS SERVING WITH THE SPIRIT. I THINK IT IS SO SWEET
So tell me what's around you, are you in a flat area now or is the still alot of hills, are you in town or more rural? IT IS MORE RURAL THE MEMBERS HAVE CHIKENS AND IT IS FLAT.. A BIG SWAMP.. VERY SUBURBAN.. ALLOT LIKE QUEEN CREEK
Sorry so many ? But I like to picture the area in my mind and it's easier with alitte info.
How is the new bishop, and ward. Are you getting fed? EVERY NIGHT (BISIOP MENTIOND ABOVE)
How is the weather, it is getting warm here, ok some might even say hot but you know I like it warm. IT IS GETTING A LITTLE WARMER BUT STILL IN THE 60S
Well I'm sure you have alot of people to answer so I'll let you get to it.
Love you have a great week, Love Dad LOVES!!


Onnie writes: (Skylar replies...no actually he didn't, he just FW JR's email to her...LAZY BOY!)


Hi there!

How ya doin? I hope all is well up there! And that things are going great with your new comp.

All is well here in AZ. We just got back from a camping trip. It was so cold and windy--eek. GLAD to be home. The kids loved it though, and Scott seemed to enjoy the hunting part (though, he didn't get a turkey). The bunny came and we had a really great Easter Sunday--great meetings, family study of the Resurrection, and a movie about Christ and dinner with the Slades. This week looks to be a busy one for us. We are feeding the missionaries tonight, and have invited a non-member to join us. We are hopeful that it will turn out well. Also, I wanted you to know I added a profile to mormon.org--at your request. That's a cool site. Thanks for letting us know about it. Scott will add one too! And I did bug your mom about getting hers on there too.

Some questions for you:

How are things with the new comp, one week later?
Do you like the new area?
Did you do anything special for Easter?
How is the bike?
Are you teaching anyone now? any baptisms planned?
Do you have a new mission president now?
How many scriptures have you memorized now?
If you could visit any church historical site--where would you go?

Found this quote on LDS.org and loved it:
“Truth, covenants, and ordinances enable us to overcome fear and face the future with faith!” ~Elder Russell M. Nelson


Have a great week. We love you and pray for you always!
Onnie