December 15, 2008
Hey,
No, I don't have a new companion. It was a temporary exchange for the day since I was having so much pain. No, I didn't get the push-up things today. Things are getting hard for me. Of course, everyone around me says to stick through it. I'm trying, but no one understands exactly what I am going through. It is hard to focus on anything. That plus lack of sleep does not help. It is still a rollercoaster right now. I'm just really glad about the advice Uncle Chuck gave me.
Other than that, plus other things which just piled up, the week has been alright. We had a baptism Saturday. Marie Gonzales. She's cool. Yeah. Had a lot of success yesterday as far as getting referrals, giving blessings, learning stuff, and finding out how to meet Elder Perry's baptismal, activation, and teaching goals.
I'm only giving this one more shot. I read in D&C today that 3 times is the charm. I forget the section. I have had more injuries, sicknesses, and problems in the time spent here so far than I have ever had in several years at home. It is official...Utah hates me. I'll stick it out as long as I can. Just know that I am doing my best here.
Love,
Elder Waller
...................................................................................................................................................................
December 22, 2008
Hey,
Not a good week at all for me. All the things that happened were great. But physical pain is just getting intense. I'm playing it off that I have none because they only say the same things over and over. "Rely on the Lord. Trust in Him." They don't realize that I have been doing this ever since it has started. I even tell them this. I have been praying and fasting recently, exercising my faith just so I can get a complete answer to things. Mental anguish is again on the rise. I have set a specific date and place in the basement where I will pray. Dehydration is far to hard for me to control out here. I can't focus on multiple things at once. So it is either missionary work or hydrate. There is only one person here who was a missionary and is now a nurse that really understands my issue. There is far too much stress right now. Far too much. It is all going downhill once again.
I got the Perfect Push-up box today. Didn't get to go all the way through it right now. Some of our investigators are really excited. Two have given me Christmas cards with some uplifting messages. One gave me a hot chocolate mug (YAY!). That is pretty much it.
Don't think I am homesick. I'm not. If anything, I'm having far more spiritual experiences right now than I have ever had. I have been studying on revelation, guidance, the Holy Ghost, and other things relating to that. Prayer has been extremely important for me since all this started. I feel as if I am being prepared for something big. The missionaries tell me that I am going throgh more these first months than they have seen. It is as if I am on this extreme grinding stone, being taken to the very edge. It is hard to explain what is happening. My journal could explain it better. Just please support me all you can. It is hard to do anything right now.
With all the love I can muster right now,
Elder Waller
..............................................................................
December 22, 2008
Hey....again,
I just sent a package to you with stuff I don't need to be lugging around. Also, I need to know how to put up crown molding. Yes, crown molding. One of the people we are working with is doing this and I remember vaguely how to do it. There is a potential investigator that comes from this service.
Love again,
Elder Waller
Austin's address is:
Elder Austin Waller
Utah SLC South Mission
8060 South 615 East
Sandy, Utah 84070
e-mail: adwaller@myldsmail.net
Monday, December 22, 2008
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Weeks 12-16
Austin's knee injury kept him and his companion from going out much and created some doubt about being on a mission. His Mission President, Uncle Chuck, Stake President, mission companion, Bishop and us, his parents nurtured him through this difficult time. I will keep the contents of his letters from weeks 12-15 private but week 16 (2 e-mails) are as he sent them.
As a family, we love movies and the ones with great musical scores are purchased and listened to regulary. Lord of the Rings, a composition of Howard Shore and is one of our favorites. Austin often played several of the tunes on his viola.
December 8th, 2008 (week 16)
The really cool, funny picture!
Far right, is Austin and to his left, Elder Peters.
As a family, we love movies and the ones with great musical scores are purchased and listened to regulary. Lord of the Rings, a composition of Howard Shore and is one of our favorites. Austin often played several of the tunes on his viola.
December 8th, 2008 (week 16)
Hey,
A lot of things are better now. Back and joints hurt for some reason. No idea. I already wrote you what I want. I want a picture of you two. Framed, one I can put on a shelf or something.
Heavenly Father really knows how to help me out. Through that thing I was going through recently I kept praying and praying, trying to find a way out of it. Then, something simple happened. A song that MoTab sang, But In Dreams. It is on the LOTR: Fellowship of the Ring CD. I heard that song and immediately thought of those two and what they had to go through. I compared myself to Sam and what he had to go through. He volunteered, like me, no pushing involved. He knew he had a mission to accomplish and he did it. That is really what I realized I had to do. A simple song made me think of something I could compare with. It has helped me tons.
I have seen two extremes now on the mission, both comparable to each other, because they are opposites. Both of these families have similar issues. One is prideful and covetous, the other is humble and grateful. The same Ward Mission Leader is helping both. Talk about the one being stubborn. They treat us as kids, not knowing what we are talking about and having no idea how to help them. Sadly, we know exactly what they need. Yeah...sad.
By the way, I did the transaction today. My coat wasn't keeping out the wet snow....yes...it is snowing now. Curses. I believe the cold is making my joints hurt, but my spine, I have absolutely no idea why it is hurting. It has been doing so for the past two weeks now. We even replaced the mattress. Still hurts. It stops hurting whenever I lay down. I'm going to the mission doctor tomorrow, but I refuse to take pain relievers because they only reccomend those that are fever reducers. Those have actually been inducing fevers. Yeah...bummer.
Anything else? Uhhh....not really.....but I have a really cool picture for you! Haha! Tis funny. By the way...it will be impossible for me to use all of the memory you sent me...even on the highest setting. It is insane how much I have. It shall work though! HAHA!
Love ya,
Elder Waller
The really cool, funny picture!
Far right, is Austin and to his left, Elder Peters. I asked Austin about Thanksgiving and this was his report:
The day of the giving of the thanks? Otherwise known as Thanksgiving?
Let's see. At 10:00 am we went to Bro. Stephens for Thanksgiving breakfast. It was really good, especially breakfast consists of cereal.
At 1:00 pm we went to dinner with Sis. Neff. It was...insteresting.
At 2:00 pm we went to our landlords for dinner. It was from a restaurant called Marie Callendar's. They are known for their pie.
At 3:00 pm we went and checked on refferals and were hated for it. People don't like it when you do proselyte on holidays. Especially bishops, unless they are from South Africa.
At 4:00 pm we went to Bro. Moore's for another dinner. He is another Ward Mission Leader. He has some amazing stories from the post office of all places. Interesting people there.
At 6:00 pm we went back to Bro. Stephens and had dessert. We also did a lot of correlation at the time.
The rest of the night was going and checking refferals for people who were not home. I was alright as far as eating. I know how to keep myself from getting sick. Elder Peters on the other hand, ate way too much and was sick the rest of that night. He keeps forgetting that he cannot eat as much as he used to because we are no longer on bikes. I thought it was hillarious.
One request...can I get my push-up things sent here? They should be on the lower shelf of the thing on the right when you enter into my room. They look like handles, and they rotate. Yeah.
Love ya,
Elder Waller
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Week 11
Austin's e-mail was a couple of days late. He explains why.
Here is his address and e-mail address again so you don't have to scroll down.
Elder Austin D. Waller
Utah Salt Lake City South Mission
8060 South 615 East
Sandy, Utah 84070
Here is his address and e-mail address again so you don't have to scroll down.
Elder Austin D. Waller
Utah Salt Lake City South Mission
8060 South 615 East
Sandy, Utah 84070
Hey!
Sorry, we had a Zone Conference on Monday. So today is my P-Day!
Good news. Had a leg and knee doctor look at it. From the X-Rays and other stuff he concluded that something happened with the cartilage under my kneecap. I have a brace on and can already walk better because it is being held in a sturdy poistion. It only hurts when there is pressure on it. I will not be biking because of the grinding that occurs. Do not want this problem to happen again!
News on Great Grandpa Waller. The one who was in Utah is not ours. In fact, it is highly likely he was never even IN Utah. It looks like he was born in Kentucky and died in Ohio. I feel strongly....very strongly that this is him. Why? I have prayed about it several times and kept getting that strong feeling that this is him. Just tell me who I should send this information to. I am getting extremely excited about this.
At Zone Conference, I gave possibly my strongest testimony. I do believe that this is the reason why President Laney kept calling me "a good one." During the testimony, I was shaking, but firm. It was powerful. Everyone saw and felt it. There is a long entry about it in my journal, so I could remember what I said. YAY!
Cabin fever is not good at all. However, we found ways to combat this. Cleaning (mostly Elder Peters), studying, contacting investigators with the phone. Not much we could do. But, we are coming through.
Dad, the violin's tone is fine. It might not be giving the SOUND you want because it isn't very good quality. Another thing that will help with your tone and sound will be your bow control. You do remember that we had the Pirates Music already right? It didn't have the accompaniment and was for piano, but we had it. Yours might be different. I don't know.
Not much else to report. Oh yeah! We had a baptism of a 9 year old girl named Alex Halkney. My first one that I taught every lesson! WOO! Don't have my camera with me, so I can't give you the image now....bummer. Anything else? It snowed at least 6" today. The "fleet" (cars) got grounded for a while. They are back up now. The nasty slush is around now...boy is it nasty.
Anyways, I still get that feeling that Great Grandpa Waller was never in Utah. I only get the strong feeling whenever I think about this one who was born in Kentucky and died in Ohio. I'll look at this more and pray about it everyday till I hear back from you about it next week.
Love ya,
Elder Waller
Monday, October 27, 2008
Week 10
Hey,
Nothing good is happening this week. Sleep is perfectly fine. It is my knees. So I got my new bike, and no knee problems, till maybe Tuesday. It felt as if they were grinding together again. Then on Thusday (or around then) my knee popped just above the knee-cap on my right leg. Since then I have been limping everywhere. It hurts to walk on it for a long time and biking is completely out of the picture now. If I go biking again, my knees will just get worse. Going up and down stairs is not good, especially if they do not have a rail or something to hold on to. I have been getting better lately and am able to walk much better, but still limping. It is likely that we will get a car.
Total on the bike is $600. It is a really good bike. It sold for nearly 65% off the price of a new one. It really does not help now that I cannot ride a bike anymore. If I were using it, I would be happy. But, since I am not, I am kinda frustrated.
That is really the only thing this week. I am still in my original area. Others count their transfers, I don't. It is too confusing. Friday was insane. We were basically stuck in the apartment, not able to do much of anything the entire time except study. We were getting cabin fever. We were able to get out of the house and get rides from people to places. When we got back, the house was full of people. Now I do mean full. Complete with kids running up and down the stairs with lightsabers and playing in our basement. We hunkered down in our room, unable to study because of the noise. Cabin fever made us go insane with all of that going on. This lasted for maybe two hours. After one hour though, the kids were forced upstairs. My mind basically whited out. Here I am, crippled, have cabin fever, and there is noise everywhere and you cannot study or get much of anything done. I was near the point of insanity.
As I said, this week was not good. I hope we can get a mode of transportation soon. By the way, the thing about Elder Packer. Aparently it was primarily towards that group. Many people in there are living beyond their means. I've noticed that here. Houses are at least 3,000 sq. feet. Some have two, one for warm weather and one for cold. That is basically it. I just hope I can get back to work soon. I feel as if I am holding things back because of this knee. I'll be alright...just my moods are down.
Love ya,
Elder Waller
We are concerned about the knee issue. I will have to call to get a better understanding.
Hey,
Forgot to mention something. The people here at the Family History Center are doing work on the Waller line. They found Great Grandpa Waller, his father and mother, some others, and also a line that no one has found out yet. Her name is Mary Land. She is the part of a line no one knew about. When I get this information in a packet, I'll send it out to you.
Love ya,
Elder Waller
I hope he is right about this. We waited a long time for a break. I'll need to get Chuck over there to check it out.
Nothing good is happening this week. Sleep is perfectly fine. It is my knees. So I got my new bike, and no knee problems, till maybe Tuesday. It felt as if they were grinding together again. Then on Thusday (or around then) my knee popped just above the knee-cap on my right leg. Since then I have been limping everywhere. It hurts to walk on it for a long time and biking is completely out of the picture now. If I go biking again, my knees will just get worse. Going up and down stairs is not good, especially if they do not have a rail or something to hold on to. I have been getting better lately and am able to walk much better, but still limping. It is likely that we will get a car.
Total on the bike is $600. It is a really good bike. It sold for nearly 65% off the price of a new one. It really does not help now that I cannot ride a bike anymore. If I were using it, I would be happy. But, since I am not, I am kinda frustrated.
That is really the only thing this week. I am still in my original area. Others count their transfers, I don't. It is too confusing. Friday was insane. We were basically stuck in the apartment, not able to do much of anything the entire time except study. We were getting cabin fever. We were able to get out of the house and get rides from people to places. When we got back, the house was full of people. Now I do mean full. Complete with kids running up and down the stairs with lightsabers and playing in our basement. We hunkered down in our room, unable to study because of the noise. Cabin fever made us go insane with all of that going on. This lasted for maybe two hours. After one hour though, the kids were forced upstairs. My mind basically whited out. Here I am, crippled, have cabin fever, and there is noise everywhere and you cannot study or get much of anything done. I was near the point of insanity.
As I said, this week was not good. I hope we can get a mode of transportation soon. By the way, the thing about Elder Packer. Aparently it was primarily towards that group. Many people in there are living beyond their means. I've noticed that here. Houses are at least 3,000 sq. feet. Some have two, one for warm weather and one for cold. That is basically it. I just hope I can get back to work soon. I feel as if I am holding things back because of this knee. I'll be alright...just my moods are down.
Love ya,
Elder Waller
We are concerned about the knee issue. I will have to call to get a better understanding.
Hey,
Forgot to mention something. The people here at the Family History Center are doing work on the Waller line. They found Great Grandpa Waller, his father and mother, some others, and also a line that no one has found out yet. Her name is Mary Land. She is the part of a line no one knew about. When I get this information in a packet, I'll send it out to you.
Love ya,
Elder Waller
I hope he is right about this. We waited a long time for a break. I'll need to get Chuck over there to check it out.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Week 9
Mom notes: I didn't get the names of everyone in the photo. Of course Austin is on the far left. Last week Austin seemed so down, I put together a care package. It had punching ballons, a balloon inflator, Gold Fish Crackers, Nibbles Pretzles, Trail Mix, Halloween Eyeballs with a scripture referenceing "eyes", Gummy dinoasurs, and a cute toy snake stuffed in the bottom. When I got this e-mail from him I laughed to tears in his deep, almost reverent appreciation for the snake. Yep, he is still Austin. This is the kid we had to force to read fiction. Until fiction, it was dinosaurs, alligators, crocodiles, snakes, etc. Even in a collge science class he challenged his professor on some facts and she acknowledged he was right. She wants him to change his plans to major in Film Studies to a science. But he's not blinking.
Hey all!
So, the bad stuff first. I haven't been able to get a full nights sleep for the past three days. The first one, I just kept waking up. Same with the third. But the second is special. Elder Kemer decided to play a joke on us, so he put an alarm on the cell phone. Elder Peters and I were asleep when the cell phone alarm goes off (note that we only use my clock alarm). I get up, knowing that it was Elder Kemer since he was messing around with the phone earlier, and turn off the alarm. I find Elder Peters getting on his knees, seeing how the alarm going off meant morning prayer. What he didn't realize was that it was 2 in the morning. I ask him what he was doing. His response, "Getting ready to pray, what else?" Of course then I tell him to go back to bed that it was 2 in the morning. He lets out this groan and rolls back into bed. Hillarious over here.
I did get the care package today. I love it! It has candy! But that isn't the best part. The eyeballs were very clever, same with the balloons. But what really made me happy was the snake. That REALLY made me feel good. Thanks for that.
Had a spiritual experience. We were trying to find someone to go with us to an investigators home. We needed an adult male to be there. So I call around. Her fellowshippers wife hung up on me. The Ward Mission Leader was gone. The Priests could not come for family reasons. Called some Ward Mission Leaders out of Stake. The UF7 wasn't there. So I was finally able to get Bro. Mayhew. When we had that lesson, those two connected with a similar problem. Both had their original spouse cheat on them. Bro. Mayhew knew exactly how to help her. Also, the scripture we read, Alma 5, applied directly to her at her stage in life. It was amazing. Everyone else was gone so that I could call Bro. Mayhew. When our lesson was ending, Bro. Mayhew said he had a meeting he had to get to. He thought he just lied to end the lesson. When we got to his home, his wife was waiting outside and told him that the RV had been broken into and the police wanted to see everyone at the same time. Funny how those feelings work.
Other than that...nothing.
Business. I have done each and everyone of those transactions. I can only tell you about these on Monday since this is the only day I can e-mail. :P And today will be my last day for huge withdrawals of cash.
Bike. YAY! MY KNEES NO LONGER HURT BECAUSE OF AN OVERSIZED BIKE! The bike I was riding was really killing my knees in the end. I now have a bike that eliminates that for me since it is my size. Not to mention I can travel faster because it a more efficient size. Yay!
Other than sleep deprivation, a new bike, and a spiritual experience, there is only one thing I need to say. Things are going to be getting hard here soon. It seems almost like a second Depression will come. As far as money is concerned, only spend it on what you need. If you can live without it, do it. Minimize your cost of wants. Also, plan on picking me up at the end of my mission. Why? Planes will not be flying here soon. Another good thing is to build up food storage. I see fallout shelters over here full of food. Now you ask, why am I saying this? Elder Packer gave his testimony for 45 min. or so, all about this. President Hinckley said that we would have 7 years of abundance. That was in 2001. It has been 7 years since that conference. From what I heard, this month alone, stocks went from 13000 to 7700. He also said that there would be 7 years of hardship. Guess what, that starts now. I feel that missionary work is going to accelerate because of this. People will be humbled. Also, I noticed that before a big scientific boom, there is a Depression or a big war. Just be ready.
One thing. Could you make a list of good movies while I am on my mission? I would like to see them when I get home. Why do I say this now? It is going by really fast.
Take care, and tell Ace thanks for the snif. It is amazing how good he is with spelling snif!
Love ya,
Elder Waller
So, the bad stuff first. I haven't been able to get a full nights sleep for the past three days. The first one, I just kept waking up. Same with the third. But the second is special. Elder Kemer decided to play a joke on us, so he put an alarm on the cell phone. Elder Peters and I were asleep when the cell phone alarm goes off (note that we only use my clock alarm). I get up, knowing that it was Elder Kemer since he was messing around with the phone earlier, and turn off the alarm. I find Elder Peters getting on his knees, seeing how the alarm going off meant morning prayer. What he didn't realize was that it was 2 in the morning. I ask him what he was doing. His response, "Getting ready to pray, what else?" Of course then I tell him to go back to bed that it was 2 in the morning. He lets out this groan and rolls back into bed. Hillarious over here.
I did get the care package today. I love it! It has candy! But that isn't the best part. The eyeballs were very clever, same with the balloons. But what really made me happy was the snake. That REALLY made me feel good. Thanks for that.
Had a spiritual experience. We were trying to find someone to go with us to an investigators home. We needed an adult male to be there. So I call around. Her fellowshippers wife hung up on me. The Ward Mission Leader was gone. The Priests could not come for family reasons. Called some Ward Mission Leaders out of Stake. The UF7 wasn't there. So I was finally able to get Bro. Mayhew. When we had that lesson, those two connected with a similar problem. Both had their original spouse cheat on them. Bro. Mayhew knew exactly how to help her. Also, the scripture we read, Alma 5, applied directly to her at her stage in life. It was amazing. Everyone else was gone so that I could call Bro. Mayhew. When our lesson was ending, Bro. Mayhew said he had a meeting he had to get to. He thought he just lied to end the lesson. When we got to his home, his wife was waiting outside and told him that the RV had been broken into and the police wanted to see everyone at the same time. Funny how those feelings work.
Other than that...nothing.
Business. I have done each and everyone of those transactions. I can only tell you about these on Monday since this is the only day I can e-mail. :P And today will be my last day for huge withdrawals of cash.
Bike. YAY! MY KNEES NO LONGER HURT BECAUSE OF AN OVERSIZED BIKE! The bike I was riding was really killing my knees in the end. I now have a bike that eliminates that for me since it is my size. Not to mention I can travel faster because it a more efficient size. Yay!
Other than sleep deprivation, a new bike, and a spiritual experience, there is only one thing I need to say. Things are going to be getting hard here soon. It seems almost like a second Depression will come. As far as money is concerned, only spend it on what you need. If you can live without it, do it. Minimize your cost of wants. Also, plan on picking me up at the end of my mission. Why? Planes will not be flying here soon. Another good thing is to build up food storage. I see fallout shelters over here full of food. Now you ask, why am I saying this? Elder Packer gave his testimony for 45 min. or so, all about this. President Hinckley said that we would have 7 years of abundance. That was in 2001. It has been 7 years since that conference. From what I heard, this month alone, stocks went from 13000 to 7700. He also said that there would be 7 years of hardship. Guess what, that starts now. I feel that missionary work is going to accelerate because of this. People will be humbled. Also, I noticed that before a big scientific boom, there is a Depression or a big war. Just be ready.
One thing. Could you make a list of good movies while I am on my mission? I would like to see them when I get home. Why do I say this now? It is going by really fast.
Take care, and tell Ace thanks for the snif. It is amazing how good he is with spelling snif!
Love ya,
Elder Waller
Week 8
I didn't get an explanation of the photo. Looks like a basement where children play. momHey,
The bike at home will not last out here. The cheap ones out here are not worth it because of all the maintenance costs. A professional is building a bike for me that will be well-to-do for a decent price. As soon as this bike stuff is done, my bank account will be almost completely unused.
I have been eating my vegetables and have lost 8-10 pounds.
I was just able to buy some winter clothing today from Target. All of the purchases you see have been made by me. Don't worry. I just learned today that we can use the missionary fund to buy other necessities as well as food.
E-mail can only be sent to immediate family. If grandma needs me to write to her, I'll need her home address.
The voting thing is too complicated. I did what you said to do and that was what they sent me. I don't have that information.
I can only give you the mission office address. Rules.
Snow yes. Slush no. Just really cold water.
Had two baptisms and confirmations this week. Chase and Alexis Westberg. Really nice.
Had a fireside yesterday. President Laney was the key speaker and kept telling me in front of everyone what an extraordinary missionary I am. I have yet to find out why he and the other missionaries say that, yet they don't say that to anyone else. Has me puzzled.
Again, I'm doing my absolute best with managing the money. The first transfer is always like this. That is what the missionaries have told me. Don't worry. Last night I got an answer to my prayer about some things. One is that money will not be a problem. How will this happen? I have no idea. All I know is that He said it would happen, and as long as all of us have faith, it will. This mission is not just blessing my life. It is yours as well in terms of many things. You don't realize how often I pray for your well being and ability to be well-to-do while still managing to finance this mission. If I told you all the answers I have received about finances, you would be quite surprised. I put a lot of effort into my prayers, knowing that they will be answered.
I don't know why, but I feel really down at the moment. It will likely pass. Anyways, that is really it. It is good to hear that everyone is doing fine. Wish I could write more.
Love ya,
Elder Waller
The bike at home will not last out here. The cheap ones out here are not worth it because of all the maintenance costs. A professional is building a bike for me that will be well-to-do for a decent price. As soon as this bike stuff is done, my bank account will be almost completely unused.
I have been eating my vegetables and have lost 8-10 pounds.
I was just able to buy some winter clothing today from Target. All of the purchases you see have been made by me. Don't worry. I just learned today that we can use the missionary fund to buy other necessities as well as food.
E-mail can only be sent to immediate family. If grandma needs me to write to her, I'll need her home address.
The voting thing is too complicated. I did what you said to do and that was what they sent me. I don't have that information.
I can only give you the mission office address. Rules.
Snow yes. Slush no. Just really cold water.
Had two baptisms and confirmations this week. Chase and Alexis Westberg. Really nice.
Had a fireside yesterday. President Laney was the key speaker and kept telling me in front of everyone what an extraordinary missionary I am. I have yet to find out why he and the other missionaries say that, yet they don't say that to anyone else. Has me puzzled.
Again, I'm doing my absolute best with managing the money. The first transfer is always like this. That is what the missionaries have told me. Don't worry. Last night I got an answer to my prayer about some things. One is that money will not be a problem. How will this happen? I have no idea. All I know is that He said it would happen, and as long as all of us have faith, it will. This mission is not just blessing my life. It is yours as well in terms of many things. You don't realize how often I pray for your well being and ability to be well-to-do while still managing to finance this mission. If I told you all the answers I have received about finances, you would be quite surprised. I put a lot of effort into my prayers, knowing that they will be answered.
I don't know why, but I feel really down at the moment. It will likely pass. Anyways, that is really it. It is good to hear that everyone is doing fine. Wish I could write more.
Love ya,
Elder Waller
Friday, October 10, 2008
Week 7
Hey,
So conference! WOO! YEAH! TV! Hey, during the first two sessions I made myself a winter hat (beanie thing). Yay! No picture of it yet though. Ends up that I will indeed have to buy a bike. Bummer. Now watche me buy it and find myself in a car this next transfer, which is in about 2 weeks.
We have been teaching more and more people. Our baptismal projection for this month so far is 24. It is likely to rise. We are already past our projected goal. Yay!
There really hasn't been anything exciting happening out here. I was able to participate in a priesthood blessing for this sister who needed comfort. It was amazing how fast it happened. Then we met this guy named Paul Clemens. He is a convert and looks up to Paul, the apostle. Really neat stories he has. Was wondering how he could do missionary work, and we told him about referrals. Oh yeah! Elder Peters and I ran into this really cooky lady. She had the truth, she just didn't use it to the fulness. She said salvation is through Christ (correct) but that baptism is done at birth (wrong). She thought born of water means birth and born of the spirit is conversion. Elder Peters called her a Born Again Christian. I really wanted to tell her that faith without works is dead, but that would have led to an argument.
I have heard possibly the most honest and sincere prayer ever. Doug Dunford is an inactive who only made it to the office of teacher. He knows the church is true, but certain members drove his family away by their constant judging. This was during an exchange, so he is not in my area. He wants to be able to feel the spirit again, and he said he could feel it while Elder Kemer (batman) and I were there. He said he wasn't ready, but we came at just the right time when he needed it most. He is a film editor (YES!!!). Anyways, we offer a prayer and told him that we would like him to offer a prayer at the end. At the end of our prayer, he automatically goes into his own prayer. I will tell you, the spirit has never hit me so strong in a normal home as it did to me there. He did not have a Book of Mormon, so we got him one. I grabbed one from my bag and remembered that I had written my testimony on both. I grabbed both and skimmed over it. Honestly, one of them had the perfect testimony for him. I gave that one to him and he nearly broke down into tears (again). He said it was very personal for me to do that. He is the first person that I wrote down his mailing address because I want to keep in contact with him. It was a sad story with a great ending. Elder Kemer and I set up a return appointment, of which I would not be there, and left feeling great that we had truly helped someone.
That is about it. Nothing else other than a couple from Germany. I'll have more stories on them later.
So how is everything going?
Love ya,
Elder Waller
So conference! WOO! YEAH! TV! Hey, during the first two sessions I made myself a winter hat (beanie thing). Yay! No picture of it yet though. Ends up that I will indeed have to buy a bike. Bummer. Now watche me buy it and find myself in a car this next transfer, which is in about 2 weeks.
We have been teaching more and more people. Our baptismal projection for this month so far is 24. It is likely to rise. We are already past our projected goal. Yay!
There really hasn't been anything exciting happening out here. I was able to participate in a priesthood blessing for this sister who needed comfort. It was amazing how fast it happened. Then we met this guy named Paul Clemens. He is a convert and looks up to Paul, the apostle. Really neat stories he has. Was wondering how he could do missionary work, and we told him about referrals. Oh yeah! Elder Peters and I ran into this really cooky lady. She had the truth, she just didn't use it to the fulness. She said salvation is through Christ (correct) but that baptism is done at birth (wrong). She thought born of water means birth and born of the spirit is conversion. Elder Peters called her a Born Again Christian. I really wanted to tell her that faith without works is dead, but that would have led to an argument.
I have heard possibly the most honest and sincere prayer ever. Doug Dunford is an inactive who only made it to the office of teacher. He knows the church is true, but certain members drove his family away by their constant judging. This was during an exchange, so he is not in my area. He wants to be able to feel the spirit again, and he said he could feel it while Elder Kemer (batman) and I were there. He said he wasn't ready, but we came at just the right time when he needed it most. He is a film editor (YES!!!). Anyways, we offer a prayer and told him that we would like him to offer a prayer at the end. At the end of our prayer, he automatically goes into his own prayer. I will tell you, the spirit has never hit me so strong in a normal home as it did to me there. He did not have a Book of Mormon, so we got him one. I grabbed one from my bag and remembered that I had written my testimony on both. I grabbed both and skimmed over it. Honestly, one of them had the perfect testimony for him. I gave that one to him and he nearly broke down into tears (again). He said it was very personal for me to do that. He is the first person that I wrote down his mailing address because I want to keep in contact with him. It was a sad story with a great ending. Elder Kemer and I set up a return appointment, of which I would not be there, and left feeling great that we had truly helped someone.
That is about it. Nothing else other than a couple from Germany. I'll have more stories on them later.
So how is everything going?
Love ya,
Elder Waller
Week 6
We received this message October 9 although we should have received it Sept 30. di
Danny thinks this Liahona bike runs on faith.
Hey,
This week. Man that is a lot to remember. I would have to say the most exciting thing was this little rat of a Chihuahua. Here are Elder Peters and I, tracting around in this apartment complex. I knock on this door and a member pops her head out, trying to keep the door shut. We begin to talk and then this black thing shoots out the door. She starts screaming for her kid to get it! We look and realize it is a Chihuahua! So here we are, in white shirts, slacks, backpacks on, and me with a Book of Mormon in my hand, chasing and herding this dog back. The sucker was quick! I managed to block its movements with the power of The Book of Mormon. It is a powerful book, I will testify to that. It cannot read and it still felt the spirit! Wow! Anyways, I grab the dog and get it back to the lady. We had quite a funny discussion after that.
Oh, what else happened. Spiritual experience! Sunday, I had this horrible cold. It was near migraine capacity. The lights hurt, sound hurt, I could hear the lights if they were on. Miserable. So I prayed that the Lord would heal me. During it I also asked if it would be better for me to stay at the basement or go to church. Of course, go to church. Here is where it gets cool. I basically have no energy at all. My muscles could barely get me up the stairs. Got on the bike, and began to pedal. I could not feel my legs. All I was doing was steering. I found my legs moving by some other force. It was cool! This happened the entire day. Also, each sacrament meeting we attended, my health improved. Really cool.
Another thing that happened that day. Not so cool. Elder Peters thought it was hillarious though. I nearly got ran over by a car I was trying to get into. A 91 year old was driving and thought I had got in. Well.....I wasn't in. Long story short, we got the guy to stop. I almost had to dive inside.
One thing I do not like about Sundays. It is required that we wear our suits. Being on a bike makes this sort of inconvenient. We have to put our coat in our backpack, and make sure our suit pants do not get caught in the chain or gears. I've already seen the damage those things can cause. Elder Peters is a testament to that.
Speaking of bikes, that free one is only worth parts. The only good things on it is the reflectors and the seat. Nothing else. Very sketchy. I'm going to have to either get a new one or get one from either Elder Kemer (batman) or Elder.....someone who is about to leave. Kemers is a Liahona (one of the worst bikes in the world) and the other one is very good (according to Elder Peters). He doesn't know what brand it is.
By the way. I need all the genealogy information you can get me. All of our family information. Both Harper and Waller sides.
Q and A time.
I don't have time for Thermal Garments. Just need regular thermals. Hi Sis. Momerak! An alarm for my blog? AMAZING! Hey, just be glad those books got me into a better relationship with a prospective baptism. Everyone asks where I am from. No one can detect an accent. Really funny. I get offended when some refer to everyone in North Carolina as hill billies. I have gotten pretty good at hiding my true feelings. I've pretty much solved to problem with the lessons. Just need to keep at it. Uncle Chuck is coming here? Does he even know which Zone I am in? Technically, I can't make those appointments. Do I care...not really. The acting advice...nearly everyone around here. Of course, they all talk highly about BYU, trying to convert me to BYUism. I am staunch UNCW. Yes the Bears are members of the church. The parents did all the work, the kids played. Five people in the family total. No, luckily it was not raining. I knew it! I shall be happy when I don't have a crazy companion who loves lightning and rain. No...the font does not make me hungry.
Anything else? If not...
Love ya,
Elder Waller
In the last paragraph, Austin is responding to some questions I asked him. Such as, do people ask you where you are from based on your accent? And answers in reference to comments from his previous letters. di
PS: This message was returned back to me because I tried to send pictures. So I did send it, it just didn't make it.
Hey,
This week. Man that is a lot to remember. I would have to say the most exciting thing was this little rat of a Chihuahua. Here are Elder Peters and I, tracting around in this apartment complex. I knock on this door and a member pops her head out, trying to keep the door shut. We begin to talk and then this black thing shoots out the door. She starts screaming for her kid to get it! We look and realize it is a Chihuahua! So here we are, in white shirts, slacks, backpacks on, and me with a Book of Mormon in my hand, chasing and herding this dog back. The sucker was quick! I managed to block its movements with the power of The Book of Mormon. It is a powerful book, I will testify to that. It cannot read and it still felt the spirit! Wow! Anyways, I grab the dog and get it back to the lady. We had quite a funny discussion after that.
Oh, what else happened. Spiritual experience! Sunday, I had this horrible cold. It was near migraine capacity. The lights hurt, sound hurt, I could hear the lights if they were on. Miserable. So I prayed that the Lord would heal me. During it I also asked if it would be better for me to stay at the basement or go to church. Of course, go to church. Here is where it gets cool. I basically have no energy at all. My muscles could barely get me up the stairs. Got on the bike, and began to pedal. I could not feel my legs. All I was doing was steering. I found my legs moving by some other force. It was cool! This happened the entire day. Also, each sacrament meeting we attended, my health improved. Really cool.
Another thing that happened that day. Not so cool. Elder Peters thought it was hillarious though. I nearly got ran over by a car I was trying to get into. A 91 year old was driving and thought I had got in. Well.....I wasn't in. Long story short, we got the guy to stop. I almost had to dive inside.
One thing I do not like about Sundays. It is required that we wear our suits. Being on a bike makes this sort of inconvenient. We have to put our coat in our backpack, and make sure our suit pants do not get caught in the chain or gears. I've already seen the damage those things can cause. Elder Peters is a testament to that.
Speaking of bikes, that free one is only worth parts. The only good things on it is the reflectors and the seat. Nothing else. Very sketchy. I'm going to have to either get a new one or get one from either Elder Kemer (batman) or Elder.....someone who is about to leave. Kemers is a Liahona (one of the worst bikes in the world) and the other one is very good (according to Elder Peters). He doesn't know what brand it is.
By the way. I need all the genealogy information you can get me. All of our family information. Both Harper and Waller sides.
Q and A time.
I don't have time for Thermal Garments. Just need regular thermals. Hi Sis. Momerak! An alarm for my blog? AMAZING! Hey, just be glad those books got me into a better relationship with a prospective baptism. Everyone asks where I am from. No one can detect an accent. Really funny. I get offended when some refer to everyone in North Carolina as hill billies. I have gotten pretty good at hiding my true feelings. I've pretty much solved to problem with the lessons. Just need to keep at it. Uncle Chuck is coming here? Does he even know which Zone I am in? Technically, I can't make those appointments. Do I care...not really. The acting advice...nearly everyone around here. Of course, they all talk highly about BYU, trying to convert me to BYUism. I am staunch UNCW. Yes the Bears are members of the church. The parents did all the work, the kids played. Five people in the family total. No, luckily it was not raining. I knew it! I shall be happy when I don't have a crazy companion who loves lightning and rain. No...the font does not make me hungry.
Anything else? If not...
Love ya,
Elder Waller
In the last paragraph, Austin is responding to some questions I asked him. Such as, do people ask you where you are from based on your accent? And answers in reference to comments from his previous letters. di
PS: This message was returned back to me because I tried to send pictures. So I did send it, it just didn't make it.
I think this is Elder Peters, Austin's 1st companion.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Week 5
September 23, 2008
Hey all,
Having lots of fun here, most of the time anyways. Jokes just fly left and right whenever someone feels down. Anyways, my P-day is Tuesday. This is the only day I will ever be able to read e-mail and mail and receive packages. Speaking about packages, I NEED THERMALS! It is only September and it is stinking cold! I can see snow on the mountains already! Mail? Physical mail is fun to have, but e-mail is fine.
By the way, there is a CD you guys should buy there. It is called The Garden. It is basically a musical about the Atonement. Awesome music. It is not a stage production, just sung. Highly reccommend it. It is very good.
Met my favorite investigators so far yesterday. Brandi Shilling is the one we are teaching, but I have just become close friends with Garth, the husband. He is an inactive. Who knew that Dungeons and Dragons could make us connect that quickly? Once that was brought up (somehow, I really forget how it did) it was an immediate friendship. He wished I could come and play with his friends every Friday. It was just really funny how quickly it happened.
Gave a talk on Sunday on.....missionary work! Wow! Who would've guessed! We were giving it in a 31-45 age Singles Ward that has 4 relief societies and 2 elders quorums. Its goal is depletion. Anyways, I gave the first talk and had everyone laughing with some of my quick thinking. I created the entire talk by following the Spirit. I just wrote down bullets in my little black book of talks and let the Spirit take over. Everyone said I gave one of the best talks they ever heard. Some said they felt the Spirit during mine stronger than during the talk the Seventy who was there gave. Overall, the whole lot of us got 400+ members there fired up about missionary work. The Spirit was strong, very strong. We could barely get out of the building. Amazing!
Something cool I just learned is Elder Perry's revelation about the missions of the world. He said that the Eye of the Lord is set on the Valley. The Salt Lake Valley. MY MISSION!!! I was blown away when I heard that. Statistics on the valley show that 1/3 of the people here are members. 1/5 of the members are active. Those numbers are not good in the heart of the church. Once we start getting 20 teaching appointments a week, then this mission alone will get more missionaries. The goal is to get a companionship per ward. Our small area alone has 12 wards. INSANE!
One thing that has me down though. Whenever I try to teach the lessons, my mind goes blank. I know everything, it just goes completely blank. I have no clue why, it just does! I try my hardest to study the lessons, then when we get there and it is my turn to teach, I was ready and had all I felt I should say, then I open my mouth and it all just whites out. Am I nervous? NO! Am I scared? NO! Do I know these things? YES! So I really do not know what it happening. The only part that I can do and really get across is my testimony. When I do, oh boy does the Spirit flood the room. Talks I can do, testimonies I can do, teaching, for some reason I cannot do. I was great at the MTC, but the field? Nope. Was I teaching with the Spirit in the MTC? Yes. Am I doing this in the field? Yes. My mind just goes blank. It disappoints me greatly.
I am getting a lot of advice for acting out here. They say to NOT take acting classes. They took them and it made it harder to get parts because they were using these certain methods. They said also to go into Film Studies and do something like lighting or some other production tool. I said writing. In response to that, they said that good writers are needed since the film industry is getting real bad. So basically, lots of people are excited to hear my stories about the musicals and how I came about with my focus on acting.
Food out here is great. We didn't have a dinner appointment one night and we were just tracting around. Came to this one door, the Bears, and just started talking. They asked us if we had a dinner appointment. We said no. They said, be back in 3 hours. So we were! They had canned at least 30 jars of tomatoes while preparing this. Sirloin steaks, corn on the cob, watermelon, garlic bread, salad, plus desert! In three hours! We said they didn't have to spend that much money. Their response....oh, this is all food storage. They apparently buy half a cow, freeze it, and store it. Everything else was freshly picked from the garden and homemade. 3 hours to do all that! It was amazing!
So uhh...there I one thing I don't like about being in the mission. It is something called lightning storms. Yeah, you guessed it. We were biking right in the middle of one. Here are these bolts of lighting, touching the ground mind you, and here we are, the tallest things in these bare streets, no trees around! I was highly inclined to seek shelter! Elder Peters just kept biking along. I yelled at him that he was nuts! Which he IS! The scariest moment I ever had!
Anyways....what is happening there? How is golf going? Is Ace still sleeping wherever he lays down? Am I getting those thermals that I really need (I'm not kidding)? I have an inquiring mind!
Love all,
Elder Waller
Austin's Address is
Elder Austin Daniel Waller
Utah Salt Lake City South Mission
8060 South 615 East
Sandy, Utah 84070
Austin's e-mail is adwaller@myldsmail.net
Hey all,
Having lots of fun here, most of the time anyways. Jokes just fly left and right whenever someone feels down. Anyways, my P-day is Tuesday. This is the only day I will ever be able to read e-mail and mail and receive packages. Speaking about packages, I NEED THERMALS! It is only September and it is stinking cold! I can see snow on the mountains already! Mail? Physical mail is fun to have, but e-mail is fine.
By the way, there is a CD you guys should buy there. It is called The Garden. It is basically a musical about the Atonement. Awesome music. It is not a stage production, just sung. Highly reccommend it. It is very good.
Met my favorite investigators so far yesterday. Brandi Shilling is the one we are teaching, but I have just become close friends with Garth, the husband. He is an inactive. Who knew that Dungeons and Dragons could make us connect that quickly? Once that was brought up (somehow, I really forget how it did) it was an immediate friendship. He wished I could come and play with his friends every Friday. It was just really funny how quickly it happened.
Gave a talk on Sunday on.....missionary work! Wow! Who would've guessed! We were giving it in a 31-45 age Singles Ward that has 4 relief societies and 2 elders quorums. Its goal is depletion. Anyways, I gave the first talk and had everyone laughing with some of my quick thinking. I created the entire talk by following the Spirit. I just wrote down bullets in my little black book of talks and let the Spirit take over. Everyone said I gave one of the best talks they ever heard. Some said they felt the Spirit during mine stronger than during the talk the Seventy who was there gave. Overall, the whole lot of us got 400+ members there fired up about missionary work. The Spirit was strong, very strong. We could barely get out of the building. Amazing!
Something cool I just learned is Elder Perry's revelation about the missions of the world. He said that the Eye of the Lord is set on the Valley. The Salt Lake Valley. MY MISSION!!! I was blown away when I heard that. Statistics on the valley show that 1/3 of the people here are members. 1/5 of the members are active. Those numbers are not good in the heart of the church. Once we start getting 20 teaching appointments a week, then this mission alone will get more missionaries. The goal is to get a companionship per ward. Our small area alone has 12 wards. INSANE!
One thing that has me down though. Whenever I try to teach the lessons, my mind goes blank. I know everything, it just goes completely blank. I have no clue why, it just does! I try my hardest to study the lessons, then when we get there and it is my turn to teach, I was ready and had all I felt I should say, then I open my mouth and it all just whites out. Am I nervous? NO! Am I scared? NO! Do I know these things? YES! So I really do not know what it happening. The only part that I can do and really get across is my testimony. When I do, oh boy does the Spirit flood the room. Talks I can do, testimonies I can do, teaching, for some reason I cannot do. I was great at the MTC, but the field? Nope. Was I teaching with the Spirit in the MTC? Yes. Am I doing this in the field? Yes. My mind just goes blank. It disappoints me greatly.
I am getting a lot of advice for acting out here. They say to NOT take acting classes. They took them and it made it harder to get parts because they were using these certain methods. They said also to go into Film Studies and do something like lighting or some other production tool. I said writing. In response to that, they said that good writers are needed since the film industry is getting real bad. So basically, lots of people are excited to hear my stories about the musicals and how I came about with my focus on acting.
Food out here is great. We didn't have a dinner appointment one night and we were just tracting around. Came to this one door, the Bears, and just started talking. They asked us if we had a dinner appointment. We said no. They said, be back in 3 hours. So we were! They had canned at least 30 jars of tomatoes while preparing this. Sirloin steaks, corn on the cob, watermelon, garlic bread, salad, plus desert! In three hours! We said they didn't have to spend that much money. Their response....oh, this is all food storage. They apparently buy half a cow, freeze it, and store it. Everything else was freshly picked from the garden and homemade. 3 hours to do all that! It was amazing!
So uhh...there I one thing I don't like about being in the mission. It is something called lightning storms. Yeah, you guessed it. We were biking right in the middle of one. Here are these bolts of lighting, touching the ground mind you, and here we are, the tallest things in these bare streets, no trees around! I was highly inclined to seek shelter! Elder Peters just kept biking along. I yelled at him that he was nuts! Which he IS! The scariest moment I ever had!
Anyways....what is happening there? How is golf going? Is Ace still sleeping wherever he lays down? Am I getting those thermals that I really need (I'm not kidding)? I have an inquiring mind!
Love all,
Elder Waller
Austin's Address is
Elder Austin Daniel Waller
Utah Salt Lake City South Mission
8060 South 615 East
Sandy, Utah 84070
Austin's e-mail is adwaller@myldsmail.net
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Week 4
September 16, 2008
Hey all!
Sorry I can't send anyone individual e-mails. I can with letter though! Takes time. Anyways, the field is much better. An answer to Elder Post's comment on the more righteous go to foeign countries, the more righteous actually stay inside the country. It is harder to teach here because less people are willing. So you need the strongest in the states. No joke. Taught my first lesson last night, an actual lesson. I was supposed to start off, but my mind went blank. Elder Peters took over and we kinda flip-flopped who taught what. I did fine after that. Dallan, the kid we were teaching, is really smart and basically absorbed everything like a sponge.
Well, it had to come. My first bike wreck. Dad will love this. So we were coming off the street going in between these wall things to get to another street. Elder Peters got through just fine. I apparently turned a little late and my left handle hit the wall. The wheel steered into the wall, the bike was leaning hard right. I managed to catch myself, but didn't go far enough off the seat. I basically got caught in a place no man should ever get caught. No dramatic flips or anything, just lots of pain. We were on our way to dinner too.....bummer. Yeah.
We met another guy named Michael Marshan, a Louisiana member. Tattoo artist with tattoos and piercings. Before knocking on the door we hear this heavy metal music, no lyrics. We knock and here is this guy, his eyes get huge and he yells "WHOA!" He jumps to his stereo and turns his music way down. He was shocked to see us, we were shocked to see what he looked like. Anyways, he is pretty cool. Ends up his daughter is asking him questions about the church he cannot answer. Funny how this works.
Later that night, Elder Peters and I were going past a house in the woods off the street. He got the feeling to go in, but didn't tell me till we crossed a bridge and got to a stop sign. He asked me if we should go back and I felt we should. Well, we get back to the bridge and both of us immediately get the feeling of NO. Well, you can imagine how confused we are, but that was so strong we discussed it but were not going any further period. Interesting.
Yeah! That is basically it! Good to finally hear from people. Went to the Jordan temple today. It was neat. People here belive I am the answer to their prayers. Apparently President Laney tells everyone that I am a gifted one. I don't know what he sees, but ok. Thanks for the memory cards. I wont be able to send all the pictures, but once I get back, they will all be available. Hooray!
Love,
Elder Waller
Austin's Address is
Elder Austin Daniel Waller
Utah Salt Lake City South Mission
8060 South 615 East
Sandy, Utah 84070
Austin's e-mail is adwaller@myldsmail.net
Hey all!
Sorry I can't send anyone individual e-mails. I can with letter though! Takes time. Anyways, the field is much better. An answer to Elder Post's comment on the more righteous go to foeign countries, the more righteous actually stay inside the country. It is harder to teach here because less people are willing. So you need the strongest in the states. No joke. Taught my first lesson last night, an actual lesson. I was supposed to start off, but my mind went blank. Elder Peters took over and we kinda flip-flopped who taught what. I did fine after that. Dallan, the kid we were teaching, is really smart and basically absorbed everything like a sponge.
Well, it had to come. My first bike wreck. Dad will love this. So we were coming off the street going in between these wall things to get to another street. Elder Peters got through just fine. I apparently turned a little late and my left handle hit the wall. The wheel steered into the wall, the bike was leaning hard right. I managed to catch myself, but didn't go far enough off the seat. I basically got caught in a place no man should ever get caught. No dramatic flips or anything, just lots of pain. We were on our way to dinner too.....bummer. Yeah.
We met another guy named Michael Marshan, a Louisiana member. Tattoo artist with tattoos and piercings. Before knocking on the door we hear this heavy metal music, no lyrics. We knock and here is this guy, his eyes get huge and he yells "WHOA!" He jumps to his stereo and turns his music way down. He was shocked to see us, we were shocked to see what he looked like. Anyways, he is pretty cool. Ends up his daughter is asking him questions about the church he cannot answer. Funny how this works.
Later that night, Elder Peters and I were going past a house in the woods off the street. He got the feeling to go in, but didn't tell me till we crossed a bridge and got to a stop sign. He asked me if we should go back and I felt we should. Well, we get back to the bridge and both of us immediately get the feeling of NO. Well, you can imagine how confused we are, but that was so strong we discussed it but were not going any further period. Interesting.
Yeah! That is basically it! Good to finally hear from people. Went to the Jordan temple today. It was neat. People here belive I am the answer to their prayers. Apparently President Laney tells everyone that I am a gifted one. I don't know what he sees, but ok. Thanks for the memory cards. I wont be able to send all the pictures, but once I get back, they will all be available. Hooray!
Love,
Elder Waller
Austin's Address is
Elder Austin Daniel Waller
Utah Salt Lake City South Mission
8060 South 615 East
Sandy, Utah 84070
Austin's e-mail is adwaller@myldsmail.net
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Week 3.5
Austin's e-mail is adwaller@myldsmail.net
Hey!
Pictures this time! Yay! So, my first area is the...Midvale area. It is really confusing here. The address system is much different as compared to that back home. It is a bike mission, and I WILL guarantee, that if I am not Lance Armstrong by the time I am back home, something has gone wrong.
My first trainer/companion I can tell was chosen by the Lord, not just the mission president. Why? He stresses water like there is no tomorrow. Oh yeah, news on the bike situation. Don't bother for now, I have a free one! It is a really good one too. The first day out though, I nearly died. You hear that...DIED.
Left the MTC on a really good note though. Had the chance to see one of the rarest things at the MTC, one of the First Presidency. President Dieter F. Uchtdorf came in. He is hillarious! His laugh is addicting, especially when his wife was making jokes (accidentally) left and right. He tosses his head back and laughter and turns all red. Apparently he still writes her love notes. That was a funny part. But that was neat, Quentin L. Cook one week, then Pres. Uchtdorf the next. He was also speaking without a teleprompter! That was amazing! You could tell it was the Spirit there. I can't really say anymore, other than it was amazing.
My companions name is Elder Peters. He is quite funny, and quirky a little. He is the one without the glasses in the picture with the sign. Elder Douglas, the other one, left this morning for Mexico...Tiawanna (or something like that). Had to wake up at 5 this morning. Oh boy, am I sore! My thighs are killing me from biking uphill! IT HURTS!
I saw Elder Peebles. Notice how I said saw. SAW. Didn't get the chance to talk to him, on two occasions. Yeah. It was definitely him though. Other than that, nothing. Wait! Pres. Uchtdorf did something really cool before the devotional at the MTC was over. He left an Apostolic Blessing on the missionaries and their families that both would be successful and safe. It was cool! YAY!
Anyways, where is the mail? I was hoping for something. Did HANNA knock everything out or what? What is happening? Would just like to know. Don't send mail to the MTC address anymore, send it to the other address in there. I'll try to find the exact thing soon. Difficult to do at the moment.
I will certainly guarantee that I will look much different by the time I get home. Weight loss, muscle gain......knowledge gain.....spiritual gain......gain....gain. You get the picture. Please send e-mails or something. It helps keep my spirits up. According to the missionaries I have an hour to do everything. That is what they say, this clock here in the corner says differently. So on that, I am confused. I don't like it that we are doing this from the library. It costs a dollar. Anyways...please write.
Love,
Elder Waller
Hey!
Pictures this time! Yay! So, my first area is the...Midvale area. It is really confusing here. The address system is much different as compared to that back home. It is a bike mission, and I WILL guarantee, that if I am not Lance Armstrong by the time I am back home, something has gone wrong.
My first trainer/companion I can tell was chosen by the Lord, not just the mission president. Why? He stresses water like there is no tomorrow. Oh yeah, news on the bike situation. Don't bother for now, I have a free one! It is a really good one too. The first day out though, I nearly died. You hear that...DIED.
Left the MTC on a really good note though. Had the chance to see one of the rarest things at the MTC, one of the First Presidency. President Dieter F. Uchtdorf came in. He is hillarious! His laugh is addicting, especially when his wife was making jokes (accidentally) left and right. He tosses his head back and laughter and turns all red. Apparently he still writes her love notes. That was a funny part. But that was neat, Quentin L. Cook one week, then Pres. Uchtdorf the next. He was also speaking without a teleprompter! That was amazing! You could tell it was the Spirit there. I can't really say anymore, other than it was amazing.
My companions name is Elder Peters. He is quite funny, and quirky a little. He is the one without the glasses in the picture with the sign. Elder Douglas, the other one, left this morning for Mexico...Tiawanna (or something like that). Had to wake up at 5 this morning. Oh boy, am I sore! My thighs are killing me from biking uphill! IT HURTS!
I saw Elder Peebles. Notice how I said saw. SAW. Didn't get the chance to talk to him, on two occasions. Yeah. It was definitely him though. Other than that, nothing. Wait! Pres. Uchtdorf did something really cool before the devotional at the MTC was over. He left an Apostolic Blessing on the missionaries and their families that both would be successful and safe. It was cool! YAY!
Anyways, where is the mail? I was hoping for something. Did HANNA knock everything out or what? What is happening? Would just like to know. Don't send mail to the MTC address anymore, send it to the other address in there. I'll try to find the exact thing soon. Difficult to do at the moment.
I will certainly guarantee that I will look much different by the time I get home. Weight loss, muscle gain......knowledge gain.....spiritual gain......gain....gain. You get the picture. Please send e-mails or something. It helps keep my spirits up. According to the missionaries I have an hour to do everything. That is what they say, this clock here in the corner says differently. So on that, I am confused. I don't like it that we are doing this from the library. It costs a dollar. Anyways...please write.
Love,
Elder Waller
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Week 3
Hey,
I just sent you a letter with some more information on it. Hurricane? Hmm...
You can send as many e-mails as you wish, I will just have 30 minutes to read them all and then reply to them. Give everyone the e-mail address and mission address when you get it. The support really helps. I leave for the mission home tomorrow.
If there is one thing I miss, I mention this in the letter also, it is music. Hymns are being sung here nearly every hour of the day, and it is driving me up the walls. Sure, it invites the Spirit, but I'm the person who needs variation. They believe here that anything without an LDS logo on it is hypocrisy or something. I wish they would realize that there is other music out there that will invite the Spirit also. You don't know what I would do to get my hands on a violin or viola.
I'm perfectly fine now as far as sickness goes. Everyone who comes here will get sick. That is what the Branch President told me. The only problem now is exhaustion.
We had an Apostle talk to us last Tuesday. Quentin L. Cook. Ironically, it was the day I felt horrible and puked because of the food. I am really concerned with cafeteria food now. It happened at school, now it happened here.
I have had several personal spiritual experiences here, the strongest was Sunday night. I wrote that down in the journal. It is really hard to report on everything here. How do you like the pictures I sent you on the CD? Weidler is the tall one with brown hair. De Jong is the tall one with blonde hair. Prince is the blonde buzz with the chin. Buhler is the one with the really short hair. Faerbare (I think) is the one with....just a tad taller than me. Harris is the one with the weird haircut, one with the glasses. Jensen is the blonde with a long face. Marrott is the almost bowl cut with brown hair. Jones is, Jones. Pretty much it. Gotta go.
Love,
Elder Waller
This e-mail letter was dated September 9, 22008
Austin's e-mail is adwaller@myldsmail.net
One minute a kid
The next a teacher
Austin's District posing in front of the Provo Temple August 31, 2008
I just sent you a letter with some more information on it. Hurricane? Hmm...
You can send as many e-mails as you wish, I will just have 30 minutes to read them all and then reply to them. Give everyone the e-mail address and mission address when you get it. The support really helps. I leave for the mission home tomorrow.
If there is one thing I miss, I mention this in the letter also, it is music. Hymns are being sung here nearly every hour of the day, and it is driving me up the walls. Sure, it invites the Spirit, but I'm the person who needs variation. They believe here that anything without an LDS logo on it is hypocrisy or something. I wish they would realize that there is other music out there that will invite the Spirit also. You don't know what I would do to get my hands on a violin or viola.
I'm perfectly fine now as far as sickness goes. Everyone who comes here will get sick. That is what the Branch President told me. The only problem now is exhaustion.
We had an Apostle talk to us last Tuesday. Quentin L. Cook. Ironically, it was the day I felt horrible and puked because of the food. I am really concerned with cafeteria food now. It happened at school, now it happened here.
I have had several personal spiritual experiences here, the strongest was Sunday night. I wrote that down in the journal. It is really hard to report on everything here. How do you like the pictures I sent you on the CD? Weidler is the tall one with brown hair. De Jong is the tall one with blonde hair. Prince is the blonde buzz with the chin. Buhler is the one with the really short hair. Faerbare (I think) is the one with....just a tad taller than me. Harris is the one with the weird haircut, one with the glasses. Jensen is the blonde with a long face. Marrott is the almost bowl cut with brown hair. Jones is, Jones. Pretty much it. Gotta go.
Love,
Elder Waller
This e-mail letter was dated September 9, 22008
Austin's e-mail is adwaller@myldsmail.net
Austin sent a cd with photos. We've got pictures!
Danny and I haven't figured this one out yet. I have written Austin and hope he will share how these guys defied gravity.
One minute a kid
The next a teacher
Austin's District posing in front of the Provo Temple August 31, 2008
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Week 2
An e-mail from Austin: September 2, 2008
Hey!
I am about to go insane! Being here at the MTC is alright, the district is great. For pictures, I'm just going to send a CD. Letter? You never mentioned me sending any. That really boosted my confidence when I got the largest mail package. Hooray! Anyways, I have at least three headaches a day from how much I am learning here. My outlooks are changing on practically everything.
The sickness I had lasted for a long time, and now everyone else is sick and blaming me. The weird thing is, I suffered far worse than any of them are. It is just weird. Not much to report on other than that I am just ready to leave. I get out of the MTC next Wednesday, the 10th, around 6am. Our teachers are telling us that we are the craziest district by how we can be funny at one point and be focused the next. They brag about us to the other teachers about how good we are at teaching and how broad our talents. They range from an acappella group to various other things. These are being forwarded right?
I guess I'll start writing letters to you. Oh yeah! My box for the MTC is 113. You are going to love the pictures I have. Most are of the people in the district, but I have a couple good ones in there, plus a couple of the Provo Temple. Ends up there are 3 temples in my teaching area. You can also see most of my teaching area from our room. It is pretty neat.
And an answer for your water concerns, I am getting one 500ml water bottle in plus 2 glasses of water per meal. My weight dropped 6 pounds, but came back in the form of muscle. Food concerns? None. And no...there has been no green jello.
Elder Waller
Hey!
I am about to go insane! Being here at the MTC is alright, the district is great. For pictures, I'm just going to send a CD. Letter? You never mentioned me sending any. That really boosted my confidence when I got the largest mail package. Hooray! Anyways, I have at least three headaches a day from how much I am learning here. My outlooks are changing on practically everything.
The sickness I had lasted for a long time, and now everyone else is sick and blaming me. The weird thing is, I suffered far worse than any of them are. It is just weird. Not much to report on other than that I am just ready to leave. I get out of the MTC next Wednesday, the 10th, around 6am. Our teachers are telling us that we are the craziest district by how we can be funny at one point and be focused the next. They brag about us to the other teachers about how good we are at teaching and how broad our talents. They range from an acappella group to various other things. These are being forwarded right?
I guess I'll start writing letters to you. Oh yeah! My box for the MTC is 113. You are going to love the pictures I have. Most are of the people in the district, but I have a couple good ones in there, plus a couple of the Provo Temple. Ends up there are 3 temples in my teaching area. You can also see most of my teaching area from our room. It is pretty neat.
And an answer for your water concerns, I am getting one 500ml water bottle in plus 2 glasses of water per meal. My weight dropped 6 pounds, but came back in the form of muscle. Food concerns? None. And no...there has been no green jello.
Elder Waller
Week 1
Danny and I received this e-mail from Austin, Tuesday August 26, 2008
I cannot see posting a blog without a photo, so I'll use some of Austin a few years ago. This is Austin in early morning seminary, September 1, 2004. We were playing a Jeopardy style game. Austin had picked "Illustrate the Plan of Salvation" for 500 points. He got the points.
A few weeks ago we were sitting in Sunday School together when again, we were studing the Plan of Salvation/Happiness. He still remembered it. Although, I can say he seemed a little happier than it appears in this photo.
From Austin:
Hey!
Ends up we can use e-mail here at the MTC. Other than getting used to the immense compression of information and the extremely sore throat today, everything is fine. One day here feels more like a week, we are doing so much.
The elders here are cool. I am the most collected of the district. Have some pictures but forgot to bring the camera equipment. Sorry. Anyways, my first practice investigator teaching was awesome. My companion and I destroyed it! In the good way. There is no possible way to send everything that happened, there is way to much, especially in the last couple of days. That is why I am writing in that journal! Yay! Anyways, learning a lot here. Recalling scriptures from memory is the hardest thing for me, but I overcompensate by the depth I can go into them. Anyways, this one is going to be short, I am a little rushed.
Elder Waller
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Preparing for a Mission
Austin's Current address until September 10, 2008
Austin's Mission packet arrived June 5, 2008. His mission call was to Utah Salt Lake City South. His dad was reading over Austin's shoulder at the same time and was showing his disappointment. We were ALL disappointed.
But as it turns out, it appears to be a hopping mission. The Jarman's from our ward have a grandson in the same mission. They have forwarded a couple of letters and some cool photos. Missionaries golfing in lava lavas. They are teaching a man from Hawaii, who loves to golf.
Also a Raleigh temple worker has a granddaughter in this mission and after initial adjustment, finds it a wonderful place to be. This same temple worker has a grandson in South America and also a grandson in Hungary. Together they determined if you go to South America, you learn Spanish (or another language), if you go to Hungary you learn humility and if you go to Salt Lake, you learn the gospel.
Austin attended the Raleigh North Carolina Temple with mom and dad, August 6, 2008. Grandfather and Grandmother Harper, Aunt Sheryl and Uncle Mark and Aunt Barbara attended.
Diane (mom), Austin, Danny (dad) 08-06-2008
MTC Elder Austin Daniel Waller
Utah Salt Lake City South Mission
Provo Missionary Training
2005 N 900 E
Box 113
Provo, Utah 84604
He can receive letters and packages
After September 10, 2008: Austin's Address is
Elder Austin Daniel Waller
Utah Salt Lake City South Mission
8060 South 615 East
Sandy, Utah 84070
Austin's Mission packet arrived June 5, 2008. His mission call was to Utah Salt Lake City South. His dad was reading over Austin's shoulder at the same time and was showing his disappointment. We were ALL disappointed.
But as it turns out, it appears to be a hopping mission. The Jarman's from our ward have a grandson in the same mission. They have forwarded a couple of letters and some cool photos. Missionaries golfing in lava lavas. They are teaching a man from Hawaii, who loves to golf.
Also a Raleigh temple worker has a granddaughter in this mission and after initial adjustment, finds it a wonderful place to be. This same temple worker has a grandson in South America and also a grandson in Hungary. Together they determined if you go to South America, you learn Spanish (or another language), if you go to Hungary you learn humility and if you go to Salt Lake, you learn the gospel.Austin has a 1st cousin in his mission area. I have heard that her husband Aaron, is the Ward Mission Leader. And very soon, Erica's mom and dad will return from Cape Verde, their 3rd mission. It is not guarranted Austin will see his family, but it's nice to know they are close by.
Austin attended the Raleigh North Carolina Temple with mom and dad, August 6, 2008. Grandfather and Grandmother Harper, Aunt Sheryl and Uncle Mark and Aunt Barbara attended.
Diane (mom), Austin, Danny (dad) 08-06-2008at Raleigh Temple
08-17-2008 Just a few days before he leaves, family comes to listen to Austin talk at church. We came back to our home, took a quick photo, had a meal and did a great deal of talking. 
08-19-2008 President Reggie Brew after setting Austin apart for his mission in Wilmington, NC.
Austin's friends from UNCW. This is a photo from spring 2008. I wanted it to represent having a meal with Austin and friends on August 19. Kaeli was not with us when Danny and I took the guys to Olive Garden at which time I did not take a new photo. :(
This is 4:45 AM. Maybe that is the reason we are standing in the wrong line.
Got in the right line and things started moving. Here's Austin showing me "See, no hole mom!"
I am getting a look from the security guy. But he didn't say anything! to me!
Danny and I were looking out the observation area hopping when Austin came through he would turn around and wave. But he didn't so I didn't include those shots.
08-17-2008 Just a few days before he leaves, family comes to listen to Austin talk at church. We came back to our home, took a quick photo, had a meal and did a great deal of talking. Front Row: Cameron Harper and Virginia (Granma) Harper.
2nd row: Bruce, Amanda, Diane Waller (mom).
3rd Row: Alec Harper, Austin Waller (missionary), Bradley Harper, and Aunt Karen Harper.
4th row: Danny Waller (dad), Shanna Harper, Jerald Harper (grandpa), Aunt Sheryl Harper, and Uncle Jonathan Harper (Diane's baby brother).
08-19-2008 President Reggie Brew after setting Austin apart for his mission in Wilmington, NC.
Austin's friends from UNCW. This is a photo from spring 2008. I wanted it to represent having a meal with Austin and friends on August 19. Kaeli was not with us when Danny and I took the guys to Olive Garden at which time I did not take a new photo. :(
This is 4:45 AM. Maybe that is the reason we are standing in the wrong line.
Got in the right line and things started moving. Here's Austin showing me "See, no hole mom!"I am getting a look from the security guy. But he didn't say anything! to me!
Danny and I were looking out the observation area hopping when Austin came through he would turn around and wave. But he didn't so I didn't include those shots.
Danny was tring to get me to take the picture before they turned the headlights on. I think the light creates the focus of the photo. The plane is heading into very dense fog. Danny and I were going to stay and watch it take off. We couldn't see it at all. Not any kind of lights. Just the engine sounds coming from the fog. Twas a little frustrating.
This photo came in the mail Saturday 25th of August. There was a very short note explaining some volunteers are there to take photos of the nissionionaries as they enter the MTC, then send the photos to the missionaries parents. This was such an act of kindness. It was the most cheerful time in the Waller household since Austin left.
This photo came in the mail Saturday 25th of August. There was a very short note explaining some volunteers are there to take photos of the nissionionaries as they enter the MTC, then send the photos to the missionaries parents. This was such an act of kindness. It was the most cheerful time in the Waller household since Austin left.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)