I recently got a new mattress. (Thanks Mark, Lisa, and Travis for driving me there with the truck!) It's a pillow top, so I also had to get new sheets and a mattress pad.
I have a full size mattress, very good condition (as long as your back is under 40) and several sets of sheets plus a good mattress pad if anyone needs them.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Monday, November 27, 2006
Justin's Letter, Nov 26
Hello yall and hope your thanksgiving was awesome. It definitely sounded like it was.
Thanksgiving was a blast. In the end we only had 4 dinners and that was definitely enough.
I wasn't doing to bad actually as long as i rationed to one plate a house and one dessert
a house, i was usually pretty hungry by the time we got to our next house. As for elder
greiner, we had to come back to our apt. and he...well let's just say he made room for
more by clearing it out of him. Yeah, it was gross! But hey, that's what we do as to not
offend anyone! So lesson to you, is don't ever be too forceful when you have the
missionaries over for dinner. It might not be so good for them that night.
Pres. and Sis. Warner are the greatest parents i have here and i can always call them. I
will be calling them tonight, because i've been having trouble staying asleep at night.
Not sure why, but i just fall asleep then few minutes later i am woken up by something.
It's not worrisome bad, i am probably getting about 2-3 hrs. a night, the only problem is
it affects my studies and our times at church and lessons. So it's only happened like 4
days now, so i'll let ya know what's going on. I know how to deal with these types of
things now, after that year at USU.
Well christmas is definitely here already and it sure shows here in frisco. We went on
exchanges with the ZL's and we saw some awesome christmas lights and i'll send some pics
home soon so you can see 'em. Christmas in Texas is so cool, well i could definitely use
some snow. It's been great here! I just love this season! Especially the lights and the
music. Greiner hates music cuz his dad always played it like at halloween and so he got
pretty sick of it, but that's cool.
As for our companionship it's going a lot better. We still have our disputes, but we tend
to work them out really well. It's coming along, and we realized we looked at each other
the other day and said, Wow we've been together a long time, and it's only been 4 weeks.
Time is flying. Exchanges are on the 13 Dec, but we believe we are both staying here so we
can really be effective. The work is great and we are doing very well in getting the
members more excited to do their part. If you ever have an opportunity to give a referral
to the missionaries then do it. I know it's different in utah. Here the neighbors you have
you'd be lucky to have two other families on your street to be LDS. Wow the world is
different. But that's what i love best here is being able to learn all i can while i can.
I'm glad the ward there is going good for yall, and wish you the best there. You should
see the faces out here when i tell them that my family moved the day after i reported.
First instinct is like on the RM, but then i do tell them all the story and they relax a
little, but it's definitely a great conversation starter.
Hey guess what Elder Greiner got. He ordered a universal remote that turns off any tv, and
it works!! It's so cool, when we ever are teaching and the tv is on just one click and
it's gone. It's great to show to members too, they just totally love us here.
The greatest thing out here is the members and working through them is definitely the most
effective. They have us over for dinner all the time.
Oh yeah, tell aunt amy to hold off on sending me the stuff for the shephards pie, cuz we have so much food and dinner apt. that it's crazy. On thanksgiving i gained 6 lbs by the end of the day, of course with my blessed metabolism i'm back down to where i was originally.
Let me give you my poem for the week...
When you get into that mood that takes you so high
So far above the problems of the world
Keep up that attitude and strectch beyond the sky
And all the answers will be unfurled.
Well that's been my attitude for this week and i leave you by saying, Enjoy this season
and always remember the reason for it. All the unity it brings to the world and the joy
thats being spread. Take hold of that and run with it. This is definitely my most favorite
season of the year, and i'm now realizing that cuz i'm here. And it's still christmas. The
lights, the joy, and most of all the love. Christ is the reason for the season. God be
with you as you serve others and spread happiness to all you encounter. Charity never
faileth. I love you all so much and hope you all sieze the day, "Carpe Dium".
Happy Holidays, YEEHAW!!
Elder Denny
Thanksgiving was a blast. In the end we only had 4 dinners and that was definitely enough.
I wasn't doing to bad actually as long as i rationed to one plate a house and one dessert
a house, i was usually pretty hungry by the time we got to our next house. As for elder
greiner, we had to come back to our apt. and he...well let's just say he made room for
more by clearing it out of him. Yeah, it was gross! But hey, that's what we do as to not
offend anyone! So lesson to you, is don't ever be too forceful when you have the
missionaries over for dinner. It might not be so good for them that night.
Pres. and Sis. Warner are the greatest parents i have here and i can always call them. I
will be calling them tonight, because i've been having trouble staying asleep at night.
Not sure why, but i just fall asleep then few minutes later i am woken up by something.
It's not worrisome bad, i am probably getting about 2-3 hrs. a night, the only problem is
it affects my studies and our times at church and lessons. So it's only happened like 4
days now, so i'll let ya know what's going on. I know how to deal with these types of
things now, after that year at USU.
Well christmas is definitely here already and it sure shows here in frisco. We went on
exchanges with the ZL's and we saw some awesome christmas lights and i'll send some pics
home soon so you can see 'em. Christmas in Texas is so cool, well i could definitely use
some snow. It's been great here! I just love this season! Especially the lights and the
music. Greiner hates music cuz his dad always played it like at halloween and so he got
pretty sick of it, but that's cool.
As for our companionship it's going a lot better. We still have our disputes, but we tend
to work them out really well. It's coming along, and we realized we looked at each other
the other day and said, Wow we've been together a long time, and it's only been 4 weeks.
Time is flying. Exchanges are on the 13 Dec, but we believe we are both staying here so we
can really be effective. The work is great and we are doing very well in getting the
members more excited to do their part. If you ever have an opportunity to give a referral
to the missionaries then do it. I know it's different in utah. Here the neighbors you have
you'd be lucky to have two other families on your street to be LDS. Wow the world is
different. But that's what i love best here is being able to learn all i can while i can.
I'm glad the ward there is going good for yall, and wish you the best there. You should
see the faces out here when i tell them that my family moved the day after i reported.
First instinct is like on the RM, but then i do tell them all the story and they relax a
little, but it's definitely a great conversation starter.
Hey guess what Elder Greiner got. He ordered a universal remote that turns off any tv, and
it works!! It's so cool, when we ever are teaching and the tv is on just one click and
it's gone. It's great to show to members too, they just totally love us here.
The greatest thing out here is the members and working through them is definitely the most
effective. They have us over for dinner all the time.
Oh yeah, tell aunt amy to hold off on sending me the stuff for the shephards pie, cuz we have so much food and dinner apt. that it's crazy. On thanksgiving i gained 6 lbs by the end of the day, of course with my blessed metabolism i'm back down to where i was originally.
Let me give you my poem for the week...
When you get into that mood that takes you so high
So far above the problems of the world
Keep up that attitude and strectch beyond the sky
And all the answers will be unfurled.
Well that's been my attitude for this week and i leave you by saying, Enjoy this season
and always remember the reason for it. All the unity it brings to the world and the joy
thats being spread. Take hold of that and run with it. This is definitely my most favorite
season of the year, and i'm now realizing that cuz i'm here. And it's still christmas. The
lights, the joy, and most of all the love. Christ is the reason for the season. God be
with you as you serve others and spread happiness to all you encounter. Charity never
faileth. I love you all so much and hope you all sieze the day, "Carpe Dium".
Happy Holidays, YEEHAW!!
Elder Denny
Saturday, November 25, 2006
THE DENNY FAMILY CHRISTMAS PARTY
2006 DENNY FAMILY CHRISTMAS PARTY 2006
Saturday, December 16th @ 4:30
We will gather at Ostler's House (732 S. 100 E.) in Ephraim at 4:30. Come whenever you can.
We will provide rolls, main dish, and drinks. Please bring a salad or side dish and a Christmas goodie to share.
1 Pound White Elephant Gift Exchange: Please bring a 1# wrapped gift per person. (may or may not be edible)
Optional: (but highly recommended:) Each family come prepared to share one thing. A short story, song, talent, poem, musical number etc.
Please let Val know if you will be able to come so we know how many to plan for.
Thanks and Enjoy the Season
News from Andrew
Dear Family,
After a long time of being banned from e-mail, President Francis has finally decided to let the mission use e-mail again! He is now going to punish individual missionaries that violate the rules of e-mail instead of everyone in the mission. It has been so long since I have been able to e-mail that it almost feels weird. This week at church we had a less-active, Sister Miller, come back for the second week in a row. We didn't do anything special to get her to come back, all we did is stop by her house and talk to her and show her that we care about her. We took a member with us, and she is now beginning to build a relationship with that member, and with us. I love seeing less-actives come back to church again, and see the change that happens in their lives.
Mom, thank you for the printed letter I got a few days ago. It looks like you guys have a nice printer now, so make sure it doesn't get beat up too much! Also, I want to thank you so much again for the awesome package I got for my year mark. It is great to see pictures of the family growing up so that I can still recognize them when I am done with my mission. :)
The greatest part about being a missionary is seeing all of the work that you've put into people pay off. Now that I have had a baptism that I have been a part of, I have a great happiness that I was able to help someone receive the restored gospel, and they went through and took all the steps necessary to enter into the gate. It is a great feeling to know that I have had some small part in helping them receive their salvation.
I miss all of you, but I know that you are doing good things in Ephraim. You can make a huge impact, just by living Christ-like lives each day, and doing what He would do, no matter where you are. Your actions each day affect many other people besides yourself. Be a shining example in all that you do and continue to choose the right, especially when it's not popular to do so. I love all of you so much, and I have realized since I came on my mission that family is the one universal thing that everyone tries to hold onto. I am glad that our family is eternal, and that we don't have to worry about so many problems of the world that are so prevalent out here in families. It has been a while, so hopefully this first e-mail is a treat for you. Next week I will try to get on the ball and send you guys some more pictures through e-mail so you will have something more than just my words. I hope you all have a great week and enjoy this e-mail.
Love, Elder Andrew J Ostler
PS - I will continue to write snail mail, but it probably won't be every week, it will probably be every other week.
After a long time of being banned from e-mail, President Francis has finally decided to let the mission use e-mail again! He is now going to punish individual missionaries that violate the rules of e-mail instead of everyone in the mission. It has been so long since I have been able to e-mail that it almost feels weird. This week at church we had a less-active, Sister Miller, come back for the second week in a row. We didn't do anything special to get her to come back, all we did is stop by her house and talk to her and show her that we care about her. We took a member with us, and she is now beginning to build a relationship with that member, and with us. I love seeing less-actives come back to church again, and see the change that happens in their lives.
Mom, thank you for the printed letter I got a few days ago. It looks like you guys have a nice printer now, so make sure it doesn't get beat up too much! Also, I want to thank you so much again for the awesome package I got for my year mark. It is great to see pictures of the family growing up so that I can still recognize them when I am done with my mission. :)
The greatest part about being a missionary is seeing all of the work that you've put into people pay off. Now that I have had a baptism that I have been a part of, I have a great happiness that I was able to help someone receive the restored gospel, and they went through and took all the steps necessary to enter into the gate. It is a great feeling to know that I have had some small part in helping them receive their salvation.
I miss all of you, but I know that you are doing good things in Ephraim. You can make a huge impact, just by living Christ-like lives each day, and doing what He would do, no matter where you are. Your actions each day affect many other people besides yourself. Be a shining example in all that you do and continue to choose the right, especially when it's not popular to do so. I love all of you so much, and I have realized since I came on my mission that family is the one universal thing that everyone tries to hold onto. I am glad that our family is eternal, and that we don't have to worry about so many problems of the world that are so prevalent out here in families. It has been a while, so hopefully this first e-mail is a treat for you. Next week I will try to get on the ball and send you guys some more pictures through e-mail so you will have something more than just my words. I hope you all have a great week and enjoy this e-mail.
Love, Elder Andrew J Ostler
PS - I will continue to write snail mail, but it probably won't be every week, it will probably be every other week.
Friday, November 24, 2006
Happy Thanksgiving
Happy Thanksgiving to the Denny family. Hope everyone had a good Thanksgiving. The Drapers sure did. There is much to be thankful for.
So how many Dennys hit the way too early and way too crowded sales on Friday morning? I'm sure Lisa was there. Anybody else?
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Thanksgiving.
I'm so thankful today for so many things. Especially my wonderful family of which you are all a part. This morning as I wrote in my "Gratitude Book" (a little book that each morning I write down things I am grateful for) I felt like I could have written for a week and still had things to write about. I hope all of you have a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner surrounded by not only mashed potatoes, stuffing, turkey, sweet potatoes, and homemade rolls, but also by LOVE. I love you all.
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
HAPPY B-DAY
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Getting You In the Mood with Some Thanksgiving Recipes
Here's a turkey I cooked using a recipe from my friend Elise, and it was absolutely the best turkey I've ever made. Every bit of the meat was moist and delicious. I can't link to her recipe because then people can find our blog from her Technorati page, but here's the short version of how she does it. (Send me an e-mail if you want the link to her actual recipe.)
Preheat oven to 400.
Rub the inside of the turkey with salt and juice of one lemon.
Combine cut up onion, celery, and carrots,and stuff into inside of turkey. (I mixed in some dried sage and thyme with the veggies.) Squish up a big sheet of tin foil and stuff it in to keep the veggies inside.
Rub the outside of the turkey with 1/2 stick butter, plus more sage and thyme.
Put turkey in pan UPSIDE DOWN. Cover and roast for 30 minutes at 400.
Reduce heat to 350 and roast another hour. Then reduce heat further to about 225 and continue to roast until turkey is done. (I was in a hurry and kept the heat about 300 for the final cooking time and it was still juicy.)
You can turn heat back up to 350, carefully turn the turkey over and cook uncovered the final 30 minutes if you want the top browned. (Meat thermometer shows about 170 when it's done. It takes about 15 minutes per pound to get to this temperature.)
Cooking the veggies like that inside the turkey creates an incredible juicy result. You throw away the vegetables, but all the juce has drained down into the pan, flavoring your gravy. I guarantee this is the only way I'll cook turkey from now on.
Here's my favorite new Thanksgiving recipe, which I got from Andrea's recipe blog. (I'm pretty sure E doesn't have a technorati page, so I can link to her!) I made it twice, with half sugar, half Splenda, and with all Splenda. Both versions were fantastic, if anyone is interested in limiting their sugar intake. It only has 1/2 cup of sugar, so even if you used all the sugar it's still pretty healthy for a dessert. Here's that recipe from my blog:Reduced Sugar Layered Pumpkin Cheesecake
(8 servings, recipe from Laura with adaptations by Kalyn)
2 packages (8 oz. each) light cream cheese (not fat free)
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup Splenda
1/2 tsp. Vanilla extract (I used a bit more)
2 eggs
1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp. apple pie spice (recipe called for a pinch each of ground nutmeg and cloves, but I didn't have any cloves)
1 (9-inch) purchased graham cracker crust
(get the lowest sugar crust you can find)
whipped cream (optional, I didn't think it needed it)
Preheat oven to 325F. In large bowl combine softened cream cheese, sugar, Splenda, and vanilla. Beat with electric mixer until smooth. Blend in eggs, one at a time. Remove one cup of batter and spread into bottom of graham cracker crust.
Add pumpkin and spices to remaining batter and stir until blended. Carefully spread pumpkin layer over first layer in the crust. Bake in preheated oven 35-45 minutes, or until center is almost set. Allow to cool, then chill several hours or overnight. Serve with whipped cream if desired and wait for compliments.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone.
Monday, November 20, 2006
Justin's Letter, Nov 20
Howdy yall from the Lone Star State,
Hey, I'm allowed to get on the blog once a week; I can't write on it, but I can read it, so thanks to all of you for posting stuff so I can keep up with the family haps. Andrea- I loved your picture! That's awesome! Congrats to yall.
For letters and packages, send them directly to me now, cuz it's taking forever to get word back and forth:
Elder Denny
8083 Stonebrook Pkwy #1014
Frisco, TX 75034
As for thanksgiving we have now six appts and are still climbing, everyone just wants to feed us. We have some that will have non members so they are at the top of the list. And we do get to play in the turkey bowl here cuz it will have many less actives and non members so lots of chances to reach out a hand of friendship to them who come. Well it's been hard to get a hold of steve cuz he works everynight and goes to school every day, but it's coming. And the others we're striving at as well. I'll let yall know if we have progression for anyone. Oh we did start meeting with gustavo, who i believe i mentioned in the last email, but he's brazilian and 7th day adventist and man does he know his scripture. Our religions are so close, but so very far away. He's out of town now and so won't see him for a couple weeks, but i'll let ya know if you remind me sometime.
So on sat. we blitzed an area for the sisters, which 6 elders and 2 sisters focused our entire efforts on one ward area, cuz sister rolfe has been sick and they're losing some of the work. We exchanged and i was with Elder Ard, our dl. we had an amazing time, we tracted, which was good since greiner doesn't like tracting. We had tons of contacts and many really good lessons with members and got some really promising referrals. Of course all the numbers are the
sisters, but hey we're all on the same team right? We even had the zl's helping us too.
Well today's pday and we're going out to play some flag football and run all of our errands. I have to fill my meds, and hey i filled my memory card so i am now deciding on how i'm gonna get all that to you. I think it's going to be best to just buy another and send home my full one and then switch off. Plus on my full one there is some short films of me for yall to watch, sorry if i'm a bad camera man but it'll just have to do. I only had about 5 min left so they're short clips of me. I'm not sure when i'll be able to get that out. I have a collection of stuff i want to send you, so you can get packages from me too, but not sure how i'm going to do it, since greiner doesn't send letters to his fam, then we don't ever go to the post office to send things home, but i'll get them out soon enough.
Well we had dinner with the Warners, (mission president and wife) which was awesome. They are like my parents here and especially sis. warner and all she does. Well we have zone
conference on wed, so i'll let ya know how that goes if i remember.
Oh yeah, we're getting new furniture cuz some members are getting rid of some and they called us first! AWESOME!! we'll have another couch and love seat. it's just great. So we sent the dinner calendar around in relief society in 2 of our 3 wards and let me tell you that i might just end up gaining weight for once in my life and we still have to pass it to the third ward. It's cool too, cuz we already have 2 christmas appts. so that's going well how much we're all one big happy family out here. Oh and dad it's christmas that i get to call home on, and are you still going to be at gma's so i know where to call? Let me know. As for my poem for the week, here goes nothin'
When one person falls and hits the ground
They believe no one notices, cuz they didn't make a sound
You lie there and struggle to regain your feet
And pray to the Lord that you'll never be beat
When all of a sudden there comes a hand
From no where His help comes and tells you to stand
I am pulled up and assisted all around
You feel so loved and your heart begins to pound
You thank Him for everything He gives
And praise Him for the way that He lives
He says to me that I will never leave you
Restores your faith and hope is like new
You stumble again and this time you're caught
His promise remains to never leave your spot
As you turn to Him for help, He takes everything in
The torment, pain, suffering, and sin
He takes it all because he loves you so
And asks that you have Him wherever you go
Using His guidance will never be a crutch
It's because of His love, He's helped me so much
Turn to him always and you shall ever have joy
Things of the world shalt never annoy
You're blessed and givin' one eternal friend
Who will be there to catch you even unto the end
Thank you all so much for all that you my family, my friends have given me and that definitely comes out in my poems. I love you all so much and ask you to enjoy this holiday season. We were driving to little elm where the dl lives and it was lit up in lights saying, "Jesus is the reason for the season" It made me smile and think of what these holidays truly are for. Family is key to his gospel and enjoy this thanksgiving, and don't worry because i am very well taken care of even when i'm alone. But it's impossible here to go unloved because of the kindness of all the members. It's time for me to end now and bid you adieu. I hope all is well and if not then you know who to turn to. I give you my blessing and love and care. And if you need anything then email and i'll try to get answers as soon as possible even though it takes a week to get back.
With all my prayers and love from this great state of Texas
Elder Denny
Hey, I'm allowed to get on the blog once a week; I can't write on it, but I can read it, so thanks to all of you for posting stuff so I can keep up with the family haps. Andrea- I loved your picture! That's awesome! Congrats to yall.
For letters and packages, send them directly to me now, cuz it's taking forever to get word back and forth:
Elder Denny
8083 Stonebrook Pkwy #1014
Frisco, TX 75034
As for thanksgiving we have now six appts and are still climbing, everyone just wants to feed us. We have some that will have non members so they are at the top of the list. And we do get to play in the turkey bowl here cuz it will have many less actives and non members so lots of chances to reach out a hand of friendship to them who come. Well it's been hard to get a hold of steve cuz he works everynight and goes to school every day, but it's coming. And the others we're striving at as well. I'll let yall know if we have progression for anyone. Oh we did start meeting with gustavo, who i believe i mentioned in the last email, but he's brazilian and 7th day adventist and man does he know his scripture. Our religions are so close, but so very far away. He's out of town now and so won't see him for a couple weeks, but i'll let ya know if you remind me sometime.
So on sat. we blitzed an area for the sisters, which 6 elders and 2 sisters focused our entire efforts on one ward area, cuz sister rolfe has been sick and they're losing some of the work. We exchanged and i was with Elder Ard, our dl. we had an amazing time, we tracted, which was good since greiner doesn't like tracting. We had tons of contacts and many really good lessons with members and got some really promising referrals. Of course all the numbers are the
sisters, but hey we're all on the same team right? We even had the zl's helping us too.
Well today's pday and we're going out to play some flag football and run all of our errands. I have to fill my meds, and hey i filled my memory card so i am now deciding on how i'm gonna get all that to you. I think it's going to be best to just buy another and send home my full one and then switch off. Plus on my full one there is some short films of me for yall to watch, sorry if i'm a bad camera man but it'll just have to do. I only had about 5 min left so they're short clips of me. I'm not sure when i'll be able to get that out. I have a collection of stuff i want to send you, so you can get packages from me too, but not sure how i'm going to do it, since greiner doesn't send letters to his fam, then we don't ever go to the post office to send things home, but i'll get them out soon enough.
Well we had dinner with the Warners, (mission president and wife) which was awesome. They are like my parents here and especially sis. warner and all she does. Well we have zone
conference on wed, so i'll let ya know how that goes if i remember.
Oh yeah, we're getting new furniture cuz some members are getting rid of some and they called us first! AWESOME!! we'll have another couch and love seat. it's just great. So we sent the dinner calendar around in relief society in 2 of our 3 wards and let me tell you that i might just end up gaining weight for once in my life and we still have to pass it to the third ward. It's cool too, cuz we already have 2 christmas appts. so that's going well how much we're all one big happy family out here. Oh and dad it's christmas that i get to call home on, and are you still going to be at gma's so i know where to call? Let me know. As for my poem for the week, here goes nothin'
When one person falls and hits the ground
They believe no one notices, cuz they didn't make a sound
You lie there and struggle to regain your feet
And pray to the Lord that you'll never be beat
When all of a sudden there comes a hand
From no where His help comes and tells you to stand
I am pulled up and assisted all around
You feel so loved and your heart begins to pound
You thank Him for everything He gives
And praise Him for the way that He lives
He says to me that I will never leave you
Restores your faith and hope is like new
You stumble again and this time you're caught
His promise remains to never leave your spot
As you turn to Him for help, He takes everything in
The torment, pain, suffering, and sin
He takes it all because he loves you so
And asks that you have Him wherever you go
Using His guidance will never be a crutch
It's because of His love, He's helped me so much
Turn to him always and you shall ever have joy
Things of the world shalt never annoy
You're blessed and givin' one eternal friend
Who will be there to catch you even unto the end
Thank you all so much for all that you my family, my friends have given me and that definitely comes out in my poems. I love you all so much and ask you to enjoy this holiday season. We were driving to little elm where the dl lives and it was lit up in lights saying, "Jesus is the reason for the season" It made me smile and think of what these holidays truly are for. Family is key to his gospel and enjoy this thanksgiving, and don't worry because i am very well taken care of even when i'm alone. But it's impossible here to go unloved because of the kindness of all the members. It's time for me to end now and bid you adieu. I hope all is well and if not then you know who to turn to. I give you my blessing and love and care. And if you need anything then email and i'll try to get answers as soon as possible even though it takes a week to get back.
With all my prayers and love from this great state of Texas
Elder Denny
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Another Great-Grandchild!
Just in case you're wondering...yes, that's a pregnancy test and yes, it says positive!!! We just wanted to announce the wonderful news that there will be yet another Denny to add to the bunch at the beginning of June. We are about 2 1/2 months along and Andrea is already over the morning sickness...knock on wood. We're absolutely lovin' life and feeling so blessed! Wow, we're gonna be parents...can you believe it?!
Friday, November 17, 2006
HAPPY "SWEET 27TH" BIRTHDAY!!
Kara, you are a wonderful Wife!
A super daughter!!---sorry I couldn't resist this picture.
An awesome MoM!!
(And an incredible NIECE! I snuck that in. (rand)
HAVE A SUPER, AWESOME, WONDERFUL DAY!!
WE LOVE YOU,
MOM & DAD
A super daughter!!---sorry I couldn't resist this picture.
An awesome MoM!!
(And an incredible NIECE! I snuck that in. (rand)HAVE A SUPER, AWESOME, WONDERFUL DAY!!
WE LOVE YOU,
MOM & DAD
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Justin's Letter, Nov 13
11/13/06
Dear Family, I love hearing all about the haps at home and really wish i could be there, but i know that yall can make the best. Well let me talk to you about the work.The Buccambuso family are set to the first week in december so that sat. will be their bapt. and then steve just has to get his consent form signed and he will be able to choose a date. That's coming along really well. we have some others that are coming too, but those are at the top of our list. I'm so sorry, that i can't make this as long as the other one, but we have a jampacked pday and have so much to do.
I don't even know what to say now, i just feel like last week i had to tell you everything and now you know all so i'm all empty. Sometimes, Greiner and i don't get along very well and it's effecting our work , but it's improving with time. Sometimes all ya have to do is let time take it's course and all will work itself out if you work at it. You have to be diligent as in DC 58:26-28. Read it and make a FHE out of it, cuz we talked today about it in Comp study. Oh, so some of the other elders in our district, Ard and Cranford, stayed the night last night so we could hang out on pday. It's so much fun when they come over and we play settlers of catan forever and just enjoy each others company. We are all going to play bball later today with the zone leaders and maybe some others. I have lots of things to get done today and it's tough when you want to play, but then never have time after to get laundry, mail, groceries, etc.. after you're done playing.
K, so ya know how thanksgiving is coming up. Of course all the families want us to have places to go. We were talking with the bishops of one of our wards and he had said he had 4 tday dinners once, so as a challenge we're shooting for five, cool huh! We're up to three right now and it's still a long way till tday, so i know we'll get a lot of love that day. We had a member over for study a couple times and he leaves the 29, for sao paulo and he's jazzed. he wants to be so involved with everything and anything we do it's awesome. He's gonna do great and we're teaching him and ourselves tons of stuff that will help us in the future. Study time is key when you need to learn more on how to focus on certain people you are teaching.
Oh so we were using "tell me" this morning for weather and heard it snowed in layton this morning, i am so jealous, we get nothing but rain here and sun, this is going to be the hardest winter season ever.
There are ups and downs, if i could compare this to anything it would definitely go to my first sem. at usu, except here i can't even call my family. I know i need to grasp the concept of focusing on all the good that's happened so far. We've been having so much success with all of our investigators and especially less active members. I am really conecting someway with all those that i am not so much trying to give them the church, but more along the lines of being a friend. If you're a friend to all then all are a friend to you.
As i leave you with this letter then i want yall to know how important friendship is. I thank you all for, not just being my family so we have to love each other, but that we all care deeper than just our bloodlines, that we have a bond of friendship that can never be broken. Now i'm feeling all excited to get on with my day. Focus on the good in life, cuz all the bad will do is drag you down. I love you all so much. You're son and brother, and most of all eternal friend,
Elder Denny
P.s.
To continue on with the focus in life,
Not looking upon what gets you down
But to gaze upon good things you've done
And mostly, getting rid of that frown
When you smile sencerely just thinking of best
There's no way that you could feel sad
It's just not possible to feel two things
If you just smile then you can't feel bad
Look and see the achievements you've made
And how they have helped those in need
Every action has a reaction
Every single word and deed
Be a friend to all you see
You can never have too many friends
Now that you have all them to turn to
When life just throws you some bends
Notice the sun and warmth it gives
Just by shining it's light
The effects you have in just an instance
Simply by doing what's right
Dear Family, I love hearing all about the haps at home and really wish i could be there, but i know that yall can make the best. Well let me talk to you about the work.The Buccambuso family are set to the first week in december so that sat. will be their bapt. and then steve just has to get his consent form signed and he will be able to choose a date. That's coming along really well. we have some others that are coming too, but those are at the top of our list. I'm so sorry, that i can't make this as long as the other one, but we have a jampacked pday and have so much to do.
I don't even know what to say now, i just feel like last week i had to tell you everything and now you know all so i'm all empty. Sometimes, Greiner and i don't get along very well and it's effecting our work , but it's improving with time. Sometimes all ya have to do is let time take it's course and all will work itself out if you work at it. You have to be diligent as in DC 58:26-28. Read it and make a FHE out of it, cuz we talked today about it in Comp study. Oh, so some of the other elders in our district, Ard and Cranford, stayed the night last night so we could hang out on pday. It's so much fun when they come over and we play settlers of catan forever and just enjoy each others company. We are all going to play bball later today with the zone leaders and maybe some others. I have lots of things to get done today and it's tough when you want to play, but then never have time after to get laundry, mail, groceries, etc.. after you're done playing.
K, so ya know how thanksgiving is coming up. Of course all the families want us to have places to go. We were talking with the bishops of one of our wards and he had said he had 4 tday dinners once, so as a challenge we're shooting for five, cool huh! We're up to three right now and it's still a long way till tday, so i know we'll get a lot of love that day. We had a member over for study a couple times and he leaves the 29, for sao paulo and he's jazzed. he wants to be so involved with everything and anything we do it's awesome. He's gonna do great and we're teaching him and ourselves tons of stuff that will help us in the future. Study time is key when you need to learn more on how to focus on certain people you are teaching.
Oh so we were using "tell me" this morning for weather and heard it snowed in layton this morning, i am so jealous, we get nothing but rain here and sun, this is going to be the hardest winter season ever.
There are ups and downs, if i could compare this to anything it would definitely go to my first sem. at usu, except here i can't even call my family. I know i need to grasp the concept of focusing on all the good that's happened so far. We've been having so much success with all of our investigators and especially less active members. I am really conecting someway with all those that i am not so much trying to give them the church, but more along the lines of being a friend. If you're a friend to all then all are a friend to you.
As i leave you with this letter then i want yall to know how important friendship is. I thank you all for, not just being my family so we have to love each other, but that we all care deeper than just our bloodlines, that we have a bond of friendship that can never be broken. Now i'm feeling all excited to get on with my day. Focus on the good in life, cuz all the bad will do is drag you down. I love you all so much. You're son and brother, and most of all eternal friend,
Elder Denny
P.s.
To continue on with the focus in life,
Not looking upon what gets you down
But to gaze upon good things you've done
And mostly, getting rid of that frown
When you smile sencerely just thinking of best
There's no way that you could feel sad
It's just not possible to feel two things
If you just smile then you can't feel bad
Look and see the achievements you've made
And how they have helped those in need
Every action has a reaction
Every single word and deed
Be a friend to all you see
You can never have too many friends
Now that you have all them to turn to
When life just throws you some bends
Notice the sun and warmth it gives
Just by shining it's light
The effects you have in just an instance
Simply by doing what's right
Friday, November 10, 2006
Happy, Happy, Happy, Happy, Happy, Happy.
Do you think it's possible to have every member of the family wish Dad/Grandpa a Happy Birthday today on the blog? I say we go for it. Pass it on and tell everyone in the family. Of course we hope your birthday is also wonderful Mark. We'll do the same for you when you turn 81. We love you Pops!
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Nate and Ben.
OK Nicole, here's your assignment: dig up some good pictures of Ben when he was a kid and share them with all of us. What better way for your hubby to celebrate his birthday than by seeing himself in his early days. Think chubby cheeked baby pictures, first prom pictures, and Jr. High...everyone looks funny in Jr. High! Happy Birthday Ben. We love you.
And as for you Sarah (I hope I spelled that correctly)...have you seen all those pictures of Nate BEFORE he grew ten feet? He was adorable. I think along with the cake and all the birthday trimmings there should be a little "show and tell" from Nate's early days. Dig out the boxes, light the candles and SHARE. We love you Nate. (All ten feet of you.) We hope you have a great birthday.
And as for you Sarah (I hope I spelled that correctly)...have you seen all those pictures of Nate BEFORE he grew ten feet? He was adorable. I think along with the cake and all the birthday trimmings there should be a little "show and tell" from Nate's early days. Dig out the boxes, light the candles and SHARE. We love you Nate. (All ten feet of you.) We hope you have a great birthday.
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
JUSTIN is in Frisco, Texas
Hi everyone!
We finally got a letter from Justin in TX and we wanted to share some of it with you. I'll create an e-mail list and send out a weekly letter from him if you are interested. So, if you want to be included, reply to this blog with your e-mail address and I'll put you on! (Sorry K, the capital letters and aren't all there!)
Dear Everyone,
Well I'm here in my first area; Frisco, TX, just north of Dallas. My comp's name is Elder
Christian Greiner and we are getting along pretty well. Today is our first pday and so i'm here at the library giving this whole email thing a shot. So just to start off, for mail and all that jazz just send it to the mission office:
Elder Denny
Texas Dallas Mission
13747 Montfort Dr. Suite 120
Dallas, TX 75240
It's easier just to send it all there and it will be forwarded to me wherever i am, but if you do need a specific address then just let me know. Thank you so much for the package, even though
greiner feels like he's lonely, cuz well he's a convert to the church and his family doesn't exactly support his mission, so he doesn't get too much mail.
Well we are covering three wards here in frisco and we have six prime people that we are
focusing on right now. Last night we just committed two of them to baptism and hopefully
shooting for the 18th of Nov, so pray for the buccambuso family in not delaying the salvation of their two girls katie and elizabeth, 13 and 8. We have others that are doing really well and
progressing immensely and by the end of this transfer(six weeks) we are hoping for many to
come unto the waters :) But it's really the feeling you get when lizzy buccambuso looks up at you at the end of a lesson and says, "When are you guys coming back". It's undescribable what goes through your heart at that moment and just can't wait until i see them come up out of the water and given the gift of the holy ghost. So, all in all the work's great, we even did some street contacting and talked with about 15 people or so, hope all goes well with them too. Well greiner doesn't find effectivness in tracting, but we've done a few doors here and there, but all the work here in frisco is all about working through the members and making friends to their neighbors and coworkers and getting them interested about the church and then refer them to us. Three of the six missionaries in my district are converts and all three came to the church through friends, not missionaries. That shows how much a friendship has an effect on people. So it's up to yall now to be a member missionary at all times.
Now, let's see...the weather here is awesome, so far anyway. It hasn't gotten above about 68 in the day and it's stayed really cool and nice. We had a huge rainstorm last night that lasted all night, which is just ending as we woke up and could still be more today.
So yesterday was my first sunday and everyone here is so amazingly welcoming and they bring us home to feed us and everynight we have dinner apt. So to everyone who thinks that 3 hrs of church is too much, well we are in church from 7 am to 6 pm, it's crazy how much we have and get to know everyone just through the sundays here, i have a ton of names to work on, but that will just come with time.
Our apartment is actually pretty nice and we even have a washer and dryer so we can do
laundry when it's needed, we have a dishwasher, and just amazing furniture that is so comfy, and even too comfy when you study in them and fall asleep. My study is going great by the way, i read our search for happiness, true to the faith, and just started our heritage, all very awesome books and recomend them to all. I learned so much about many aspects of the church. Well i'm starting over the BOM and started on wed and am already to 2 Nephi, so that's going strong. It really makes a difference in your day when you read the scriptures, i know every one always says that, but it truly does.
Oh yeah, guess what?!?! This one is for mom and grandma, but I am in a bilingual area, Greiner is actually called to spanish speaking, so i am developing my spanish quickly, but still need
some work. We have a lesson with a house maid for one of our members tonight and it's
spanish, so i'll do a lot of nodding, oh did i forget to mention that frisco is probably the richest areas in the mission, the houses here are huge and being missionaries we are welcomed and fed like kings, but don't worry i still weigh the same, for now anyway. Since Greiner is a spanish elder then in the mornings he has language study for an hour and in that time i am reading a verse of english BOM and then verse of spanish BOM, just like in the other side of heaven, but i'm not doing it straight, too much work to do for that kind of study. By transfer i'll have tons of new learnings under my belt.
Another cool thing, we have a car, and as a matter of fact there are no walking areas in this mission, all car and bike, and greiner hurt his back in the army and can't ride a bike so as long as i'm with him then we drive. But now i feel stupid for buying a new bike, that won't get used too much, also feel stupid about the coat we bought which i'll never wear here cuz it's too big, but i guess i was just being a boy scout and being prepared right. right? RIGHT!
Well i don't know how much you want to know, but just give me a snail mail and i will reply, cuz i've already found out that we do live off mail, at least when we go to the box, but all other times it's focusing on the work. I love the work, even though my love to study gospel every day wasn't too high at home, when you get out here it's really all you want to do is read, study, pray, teach, and bring anyone and everyone to the truth that we've taken for granted because we've grown up in the church. Be thankful daily for what you have and pray often and thank the lord for everything, it may take a while on your knees, but it's worth it forever and for always. We pray at least 30 plus times a day alone, comp, and travel, etc.. it's amazing how much you rely on prayer when that's all you really need to commune with our father in heaven. Lots of love and hope to hear of the haps at home. I've yet to run across a real texan cuz everyone here is from cali and utah and all rich too.
So much love to all who read this and i miss...well only miss you a little bit cuz it's so amazing out here, don't ever pass up the chance to partake in what i've been in for only a month now.
All the love from me to you,
Elder Denny
We finally got a letter from Justin in TX and we wanted to share some of it with you. I'll create an e-mail list and send out a weekly letter from him if you are interested. So, if you want to be included, reply to this blog with your e-mail address and I'll put you on! (Sorry K, the capital letters and aren't all there!)
Dear Everyone,
Well I'm here in my first area; Frisco, TX, just north of Dallas. My comp's name is Elder
Christian Greiner and we are getting along pretty well. Today is our first pday and so i'm here at the library giving this whole email thing a shot. So just to start off, for mail and all that jazz just send it to the mission office:
Elder Denny
Texas Dallas Mission
13747 Montfort Dr. Suite 120
Dallas, TX 75240
It's easier just to send it all there and it will be forwarded to me wherever i am, but if you do need a specific address then just let me know. Thank you so much for the package, even though
greiner feels like he's lonely, cuz well he's a convert to the church and his family doesn't exactly support his mission, so he doesn't get too much mail.
Well we are covering three wards here in frisco and we have six prime people that we are
focusing on right now. Last night we just committed two of them to baptism and hopefully
shooting for the 18th of Nov, so pray for the buccambuso family in not delaying the salvation of their two girls katie and elizabeth, 13 and 8. We have others that are doing really well and
progressing immensely and by the end of this transfer(six weeks) we are hoping for many to
come unto the waters :) But it's really the feeling you get when lizzy buccambuso looks up at you at the end of a lesson and says, "When are you guys coming back". It's undescribable what goes through your heart at that moment and just can't wait until i see them come up out of the water and given the gift of the holy ghost. So, all in all the work's great, we even did some street contacting and talked with about 15 people or so, hope all goes well with them too. Well greiner doesn't find effectivness in tracting, but we've done a few doors here and there, but all the work here in frisco is all about working through the members and making friends to their neighbors and coworkers and getting them interested about the church and then refer them to us. Three of the six missionaries in my district are converts and all three came to the church through friends, not missionaries. That shows how much a friendship has an effect on people. So it's up to yall now to be a member missionary at all times.
Now, let's see...the weather here is awesome, so far anyway. It hasn't gotten above about 68 in the day and it's stayed really cool and nice. We had a huge rainstorm last night that lasted all night, which is just ending as we woke up and could still be more today.
So yesterday was my first sunday and everyone here is so amazingly welcoming and they bring us home to feed us and everynight we have dinner apt. So to everyone who thinks that 3 hrs of church is too much, well we are in church from 7 am to 6 pm, it's crazy how much we have and get to know everyone just through the sundays here, i have a ton of names to work on, but that will just come with time.
Our apartment is actually pretty nice and we even have a washer and dryer so we can do
laundry when it's needed, we have a dishwasher, and just amazing furniture that is so comfy, and even too comfy when you study in them and fall asleep. My study is going great by the way, i read our search for happiness, true to the faith, and just started our heritage, all very awesome books and recomend them to all. I learned so much about many aspects of the church. Well i'm starting over the BOM and started on wed and am already to 2 Nephi, so that's going strong. It really makes a difference in your day when you read the scriptures, i know every one always says that, but it truly does.
Oh yeah, guess what?!?! This one is for mom and grandma, but I am in a bilingual area, Greiner is actually called to spanish speaking, so i am developing my spanish quickly, but still need
some work. We have a lesson with a house maid for one of our members tonight and it's
spanish, so i'll do a lot of nodding, oh did i forget to mention that frisco is probably the richest areas in the mission, the houses here are huge and being missionaries we are welcomed and fed like kings, but don't worry i still weigh the same, for now anyway. Since Greiner is a spanish elder then in the mornings he has language study for an hour and in that time i am reading a verse of english BOM and then verse of spanish BOM, just like in the other side of heaven, but i'm not doing it straight, too much work to do for that kind of study. By transfer i'll have tons of new learnings under my belt.
Another cool thing, we have a car, and as a matter of fact there are no walking areas in this mission, all car and bike, and greiner hurt his back in the army and can't ride a bike so as long as i'm with him then we drive. But now i feel stupid for buying a new bike, that won't get used too much, also feel stupid about the coat we bought which i'll never wear here cuz it's too big, but i guess i was just being a boy scout and being prepared right. right? RIGHT!
Well i don't know how much you want to know, but just give me a snail mail and i will reply, cuz i've already found out that we do live off mail, at least when we go to the box, but all other times it's focusing on the work. I love the work, even though my love to study gospel every day wasn't too high at home, when you get out here it's really all you want to do is read, study, pray, teach, and bring anyone and everyone to the truth that we've taken for granted because we've grown up in the church. Be thankful daily for what you have and pray often and thank the lord for everything, it may take a while on your knees, but it's worth it forever and for always. We pray at least 30 plus times a day alone, comp, and travel, etc.. it's amazing how much you rely on prayer when that's all you really need to commune with our father in heaven. Lots of love and hope to hear of the haps at home. I've yet to run across a real texan cuz everyone here is from cali and utah and all rich too.
So much love to all who read this and i miss...well only miss you a little bit cuz it's so amazing out here, don't ever pass up the chance to partake in what i've been in for only a month now.
All the love from me to you,
Elder Denny
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Happy Day.
How does it feel Brian to see people streaming out of their homes, and waiting in long lines, just to wish you a Happy Birthday? Oh wait, I've gotten that backwards. They're actually lining up to vote (and hopefully for a little balance in our government if you know what I mean). I hope everyone does vote today for at least one thing we can all agree on: Brian deserves the day off. It's all cake, balloons, presents, and fun. Happy Election Day Birthday Brian. We love you.
Monday, November 06, 2006
Brayd's Meme
What is one thing you doubt most of us don't know about you? I love playing basketball.
If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be and why? Ramen noodles because they are so good
What movie could you watch over and over again? coach carter
If you had to live outside the U.S., where would you live and why? china I like their food
What was your least favorite or most favorite subjects in school?least-english who cares about reading and spelling Favorite-gym(i like playing basketball)
What is something that makes you smile from ear to ear? winning a game in basket ball
What's a TV show you hate to admit you like? Oprah
Who are your favorite bands or music? Rap I like 50 cent mostly
What's your favorite fruit or vegetable? trees, and clouds
If you could vacation anywhere, where would it be? scotland
If you weren't doing what you are doing now, what would you be doing?
Playing basketball
What's one part of your daily routine you don't like? work
What is your favorite type of Candy (Bar)? bars. butterfinger
What is one of your favorite smells? gas
What is your favorite memories? 5th grade winning championship for basketball
I tag: jennica
If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be and why? Ramen noodles because they are so good
What movie could you watch over and over again? coach carter
If you had to live outside the U.S., where would you live and why? china I like their food
What was your least favorite or most favorite subjects in school?least-english who cares about reading and spelling Favorite-gym(i like playing basketball)
What is something that makes you smile from ear to ear? winning a game in basket ball
What's a TV show you hate to admit you like? Oprah
Who are your favorite bands or music? Rap I like 50 cent mostly
What's your favorite fruit or vegetable? trees, and clouds
If you could vacation anywhere, where would it be? scotland
If you weren't doing what you are doing now, what would you be doing?
Playing basketball
What's one part of your daily routine you don't like? work
What is your favorite type of Candy (Bar)? bars. butterfinger
What is one of your favorite smells? gas
What is your favorite memories? 5th grade winning championship for basketball
I tag: jennica
Saturday, November 04, 2006
Friday, November 03, 2006
Howell Halloween
Thanks Grandma (Janet) for making these adorable costumes. Our kids loved them. Hope you all had a great Halloween
Draper Halloween
Lots of fun in Lehi on Halloween. A big thanks to Ryan for taking the kids out. More thanks go out to Sandee and Clayton for coming with dinner, and of course to Becca for bringing treats and playing with Rylie. The pictures aren't too great, we were a bit busy playing fuse ball (did I spell that right?) and Littlest Pet Shop. This was definitely one of my favorite Halloweens.
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Today is Dave's Day.
Take today off Dave. That's what birthday's are for. An annual holiday just for you. A day just to celebrate how unique and wonderful you are. So call in well and train those camera trucks on you as you blow out the candles and eat a nice big piece of cake. We hope you have a wonderful birthday Dave. We love you.