Chris’ Mission–Cheboygan with Elder Dickinson
Well we were up at 3:45am today and off to the bus stop in Mackinac City. I waved goodbye to Elder Bush. He was a wonderful companion and one heck of a guy. Then I slept on the Wilson’s couch for awhile. The Wilsons are a cool family. Br. Wilson put me to work and we worked hard. I helped him on his deck and it was a tough job. My greenie, Elder Dickinson, came in at 5:40 and I met him for the first time. He seems like a really cool guy. I will enjoy serving with him and training him. We did some shopping tonight and got him situated and everything. It will be cool having a greenie. Chris Journal, Thursday June 24
Today was pretty cool. We were in St. Ignace and Dickinson got to meet all the sweet members up there. We had a pretty good appointment with Winifred and just checked referrals and stuff. Then we went to Eve’s house for a “Green” dinner for Dickinson. That was really cool. Then we walked down to the main drag and watched the car show parade. Chris Journal, Friday June 25
Today was pretty cool. We studied really good in the morning and went door knocking for our morning and had a little bit of success. This afternoon, we checked referrals out by Levering and Mackinac City and talked to Eves counselor, Judy Wilcox and she seems awesome. Chris Journal, Saturday June 26
This was a normal Sunday for up here. I had to help Primary for both hours at church. I taught Eve’s class and then I played the piano for it. But I enjoy working with the primary. They are really fun. We had a good time at Olga’s of course and then we went to Gaylord tonight. We visited Debbie Davis, the woman pastor for the Reorganized Church there. She is pretty cool, but weird that she feels like she holds the priesthood. Chris Journal, Sunday June 27
Today was a sweet day, we were so busy. We rode around on bikes this morning and got some things done and read the Book of Mormon with Cynthia Blankenship. Then we rode home and Olga took us to Rogers City. We talked with Terry Lewis and Amina. They were both good, Book of Mormon oriented discussions. Then we met with Pam and just resolved some of her concerns. Chris Journal, Tuesday June 29
Olga is so awesome. She takes such good care of us. This morning she picked us up at 9:30 and we headed to St. Ignace. We didn’t have much success there in the morning. We had a good discussion with Winifred. Then we watched “Saturdays Warrior” at Eve’s house. That is such a sweet show. Then Olga bought us Chinese food for dinner. It was so good. Tonight, we went back over to the Bourries to teach Pam and it was such an awesome discussion. We watched a seminary video about the atonement that was excellent. It really hit home with all of us. I was really touched. It related the last few days of Jesus Christ’s life and it was portrayed so well. The spirit was strong and then we talked a little about the atonement, restoration, and modern day prophets. Then we watched two talks from this past General Conference. Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin’s talk about building spiritually strong homes and families. It was perfect for Pam. Then Pres. Hinckley, the stud of all men, talked about temples and their importance and of course that was great. We really helped to resolve some of Pam’s concerns and it was such a sweet meeting. She knows it is true, now she just has to act on that. The spirit is so important in discussions, it really works. Chris Journal, Wednesday June 30
I can’t believe it is July already. We had a pretty good day today. We checked a bunch of people this morning and we got to talk with Effie. She is an old investigator that is really nice. We had a nice talk. This afternoon, we went tracking and had some good success. We gave some books to some really nice people. The appointment we had with Darlene Heckman didn’t work out and so that was a bummer. But these things do happen. Chris Journal, Thursday, July 1
Today was service day. We worked at Beth’s all morning and worked at Eve’s a little also. It was good to do some labor. Then we went and saw Winifred and had a pretty good discussion with her. She needs to get baptized. Tonight we stayed at Wade’s house and read the Book of Mormon with them and read and prayed with them. Wade is doing wonderful. He wants to tell everyone on the street he loves them. Sweet. Chris Journal, Friday July 2
Today started out so awesome and the rest of the day was awesome also. Wade woke me up a little before six and we went in his garage and worked out for a while. It was fun and got my blood pumping so I wasn’t tired. Then as we got ready, Wade was reading the Book of Mormon with Jessica and Samantha. It was such a neat experience for me to hear it. I know of eaves dropped a little. They read 2 Nephi 4 and Wade was really touched by the chapter. He was sobbing as he read it and then he would ask the girls questions about it and hen help them with the answers. It was so neat because he is changing his life so much and the gospel is helping so much. It was just cool to see the gospel in action with his family. Today was the branch party at grand lake and we rode over with the Weiss’ and Olga and Mike. And we had a blast. While driving, we listened to “Raffy”, one of Joey’s kid tapes and all sang along. Me and Sister Weiss really got into it and had lots of fun. The party was fun and the Elders from Alpena and Oscoda were there (Wright, Shurtleff, Muir, and Utley). It was cool to get to know them, including Elder Utley, Dave and Chad’s cousin. Chris Journal, Saturday July 3
Happy 4th of July! We had a pretty fun 4th. It was fast Sunday and I bore my testimony so that was cool. Then me and Dickinson had a good companion inventory and set some good goals and we then started to clean the apartment, starting with the loft. We got it looking pretty good but there is still quite a bit of work to do. We had a great dinner at Olga’s and her kids were there again. Tonight we went to Mackinac City and watched a good fireworks show. It was really cool and we were right on the waters edge. Chris Journal, Sunday July 4
Another boring P-day. We played basketball, nobody here can take me though. It is kind of boring because I just thrash on these guys. We are doing laundry right now and in a little while, we are going to the Bourries for dinner and a discussion with Pam. So that should be a good evening. Chris Journal, Monday July 5
We had a really good day today. It was just a continuation of last night when we visited with Pam Wheelock. We had a really good discussion with her. She is basically ready to be baptized right now. It’s a bummer that she has to wait and that it will be in another area after her husband returns from Korea. But as long as they do join the church, I will be happy. This morning, we spent it cleaning out the loft here in the apartment. It was about time we got that clean. It looks good now. We then went to Rogers City and taught Amina and Terry Lewis. Then we raced home, ate dinner at the Muchilles, and headed up to Moran to teach Jessica and Samantha. And I couldn’t believe it but I got a ticket going up. I was just sort of daydreaming away and exciting the speed limit by 18 mph and i got busted. Dang, that sucks. But our discussion with the girls was great so that made up for it. They are preparing for baptism so that should be really cool. Chris Journal, Tuesday July 6
Happy 9 month mark. Sweet, I have been on a mission for 9 months. That seems so long. The sister missionaries who I came out with are halfway through with their missions. Wow. Time flies when you’re having fun. We had a pretty fun day today except everyone dogged us. Nobody was home in St. Ignace except Winifred so we taught her. Then tonight, we ate diner with Wade and Misty at a restaurant and played miniature golf with them. It was pretty fun. It’s always cool to spend time with them. Chris Journal, Wednesday July 7
We did a bit more cleaning and then got out to do some work. We had dinner at Wade’s house and then we showed a couple of primary videos to the girls. One on baptism and “Teacher, do you love me?” They were both good. Then we went out and made amores over the fire. They were yummy. Wade is so great. Chris Journal, Thursday July 8
I had some really good study time this morning and we read the Book of Mormon with the girls before we left. They are both learning wonderfully. Then we checked people, had lunch with Sister Weiss and Savard. Then we went door knocking and we were finally able to meet with Don Reid and Tres again. We showed them “Our Heavenly Fathers Plan” and they really enjoyed it. Dons wife is really against us coming over but I hope it works out so we can teach him the discussions. He is a great guy and really open to learning. On our way home tonight, we stopped to see Misty and visited with her for probably 2 hours. She is awesome.. And tonight, we also went and worked out. I need to be buff. Chris Journal, Friday July 9
We met an awesome couple this morning. They visited Temple Square so they were a referral. They had a really good time there and so it was easy to build upon that positive experience. They live right on Burt Lake and they had a beautiful view. We sat out on their deck and taught them the first discussion. It went really taught them the first discussion. It went really well. The spirit was strong and they will be reading the Book of Mormon. They are Jim and Jean Valrance and they were really cool. Jim wanted to take us fishing in his boat but we told him we couldn’t so now he wants to take us golfing. That would be so much fun. They were really neat and I hope to get to know them and teach them. It was also great to talk about Utah and Salt Lake City. I love that place and miss it, but I will be back there in only 15 months. Chris Journal, Saturday July 10
We had a great sacrament meeting today. Olga gave a great talk on freedom and then Tom Johnson gave an even better talk on the subject. I learned a lot. Wade and Misty and the girls were at church. Olga fed us a huge dinner today and it was my favorite - Lasagna. It was dang good. Plus it was better because we had been fasting for 24 hours. It was good to fast for our area. I know it helps me if nothing else by me submitting myself to sacrifice. Chris Journal, Sunday July 11
We finally had a sweet P-day. Maybe because we didn’t have to be with any other Elders. Olga took us to Fort Michillimackinac and to the sawmill at Mill Creek. They were both a lot of fun and very educational. Especially since Olga was our guide. Then tonight, we ate with the Bourries and had a sweet discussion with Pam. We showed her “Called to Serve” and that is such a good show. It chokes me up. Then we talked about missions and Christmas and baptism, etc. It was wonderful. Pam had attended mass at the Catholic Church on Sunday but it actually strengthened her testimony about the true church. I’m so glad she is accepting the gospel. It will change and improve her life so much. She is awesome. Chris Journal, Monday July 12
The Gaylord Elders were with us today. Johnson and Dickinson went to Rogers City and worked there while Hall and myself stayed here. We ate dinner with the Johnsons and so it was a big house full of 9 Johnsons. That was cool. Then Sister Debbie Weiss took me and Elder Brad Johnson to Wades and we taught the girls the 4th discussion. It went really well. They are learning quickly and doing well. Chris Journal, Tuesday Jul 13
Me and B. Johnson had a pretty good day here in St. Ignace. We taught Winifred and had lunch at her place with Olga and her. That was really good. Her and Olga get along really well. Before that, while checking people, we talked to this guy on the street for about 30-40 minutes. He was pretty set in his ways but I was careful not to bash and hopefully a seed was planted. It was a good street contact. I also got a haircut today from Valerie Roberts. She has a book of Mormon and was interested and so I got her asking questions. It went really well. She asked some good questions and hopefully I gave her some good answers. She has my card now so I hope to hear from her. Then we taught Don Reid. We just read with him but any contact is good. We ate at Sister Savards and she took us home. We had Hall’s 6 month tie burn and we played basketball. Me and Hall killed the other two. It was so fun. Then we played 21 and I beat them all 21 to 0. So they started fouling and I shot free throws with my eyes closed and stuff. I still demolished them. Chris Journal, Wednesday July 14
Today was zone conference in Petoskey and it was awesome. Pres. and Sister Waite are both really nice and I am going to like them a lot. Pres. Waite talked about some cool things. He taught us doctrine and about some mission changes. He is going to be a lot stricter than Pres. Taylor but really , this mission needs it. He asked some questions to us and I answered them. He did interviews as companionship and that was different but cool. I also got to see Christofferson and Bush and Monty. Zone Conferences are pretty awesome. I always feel the spirit strong at them. I hope Pres. Waite does some good changes with the mission. There are a lot of things that need to be done. I also got to know Elder Mogle a little and he is a stud. He is an awesome missionary - I can tell and he taught me tons of things when we were together. After zone conference, Olga took us up to Wade’s and we had dinner and a short discussion with the girls. It was a great day. Chris Journal, Thursday July 15
Today was pretty cool. We had a really fun lunch with Sister Weiss and then Pres. Weiss took us to Winifreds and we talked to her about Pride and things like that. It went pretty good. Then we went and saw Beth’s new baby girl. She is 9 days old and she is adorable. I held her for a while and didn’t want to give her back. I want a lot of kids. Eve fed us dinner tonight and then took us back to Cheboygan. She is great, too. Chris Journal, Friday July 16
Br. Volz picked us up at 4:00am and we headed down to Merrill Michigan with Pres. Weiss to work on the Stake Welfare Farm. We got to weed the beet fields. There were tons and tons of beets. Each row was 1/2 mile long and I did 14 rows (2 at a time). It was pretty cool to do. I also saw and talked with tons of missionaries including Bush and Sullivan. It was a fun day. Chris Journal, Saturday July 17
Today was great fun. Church was really cool and then we went on splits after church. Br. Truesdale went with me to the Bourries and John Truesdale went with Dickinson checking a family and door knocking. At the Bourries, they had a birthday cake and a card with $5. That was so cool of them to think of me that way. Then we read the last chapter of 1st Nephi with them to get Pam going on her reading. Then we watched Mountain of the Lord with them. Such a cool movie. I love it, and so did they. Pam also talked some more about her baptism. She may want to be baptized soon. Chris Journal, Sunday July 18
Happy Birthday! I can’t believe I’m 20 years old. I don’t feel 20 and this definitely didn’t feel like my birthday. But it was a sweet day. We went fishing. I found my favorite hole where I had luck before and caught 3 fish. It was awesome, and Joey was with me and he loved it too. He would hold the net and try to help me. Then we headed upstream and I caught another one. Then we had a late breakfast - eggs, potatoes, sausage, bacon. I caught one more fish after that - five brook trout in all. No one else caught any so I was lucky. We went to Wade’s and showered and ate my fish and Wade’s fish from before. They tasted good and fresh. Then we headed over to the Weiss’ for my surprise birthday party. It was so awesome. A lot of people were there. The Truesdales, Weiss’, Olga, Eve and her ladies, Dewitts, and us missionaries. We had cake and ice cream and I opened all my presents. I got tons of awesome stuff. A blue Eddie Bauer jacket, a door knocking bag, a Mickey Mouse hat, a sweet rugby shirt, the book Believing Christ, the movies “On the Way Home” and The Prodigal Son”, Saturday’s Warrior tape, film for my camera, a bunch of food, a sweet Mackinac Island sweatshirt from Olga and a Michigan t-shirt from the Weiss’. It was so cool. The people up here are outstanding. It was such a nice party. I can't describe how cool it was. My family also sent me a $100 check and G&G Polson also sent me $40. I also got a tape from my family that I listened to. They even got a lot of my friends to talk on it. I feel so loved not only by my family but also from the people around here. I like being 20 years old. Chris Journal, Monday July 19
Today I was reading the book “Spiritual Roots of Human Relations” that I got from Dave Johnson. It is a good book and I am going to learn a lot. We went door knocking with the focus of finding people to baptize instead of just finding people to give away books to. We had a good experience and I like the new focus a lot better. And we are going to do a lot more doorknocking. Chris Journal, Tuesday July 20
We checked call backs this morning and had lunch and a nice visit with Effie and Lynn. This afternoon, our appointment with Don Reid fell through. We had an awesome dinner with the Dewitts and we watched “On the Way Home”. Chris Journal, Wednesday July 21
We did a bunch of door knocking today and checked a bunch of our call backs. But we didn’t get into anyone’s home. It was a nice hot day and it felt good to be walking around in it. We met the Zone Leaders at the Wilsons for dinner and then we started trade offs. I took Elder Bush with me up to St. Ignace and we taught Wade and then stayed at the Weiss’. I gave Wade a blessing tonight and I hope it helps. While I was administering to him, my mind was swirling and all I could see in my head were the words I was saying. I left like I was dizzy but my body wasn’t. The Priesthood Power is real. We visited with the Weiss’ until late tonight. The are so awesome. I love their family. Chris Journal, Thursday July 22
St. Ignace is a happening place. we hung out at the Weiss’ while we got ready and stuff. They do so much for us as missionaries. We also went to lunch at the Dockside with Sis. Weiss Eve, and Sis. Savard. That was really fun. We checked call backs and talked to Lynn Piippo for a while. We committed her to the smoking program, so we will be giving her that next week. We also taught Winifred today. Her visits are becoming less and less productive, though. She needs to commit herself. Eve fed us tonight - she is awesome too. I loved being with Bush today. He is a stud. Chris Journal, Friday July 23
Today is Pioneer Day and Sis. Weiss birthday. Wow - what a celebration. We all went to Pams today and read the book of mormon with her. It was cool. Then me and Beaver door knocked for 2 hours with no success. Olga took us out to Chinese food and that of course was awesome. Chris Journal, Saturday July 24
Merry Christmas! I had to wear my Christmas socks and tie to church today to celebrate. Church was cool except Wade and Misty didn’t come. But Pam came and the medical student girls brought a friend. It was a good sacrament meeting and then we taught Pam the sixth discussion. She is gaining a strong testimony and her and Greg will make great members as soon as he gets home from Korea. Then we ate at Olga’s. She is so awesome. Tonight we slept in Petoskey because we’re going to to have a sweet P-day tomorrow. Chris Journal, Sunday July 25
Today was awesome. We had such a cool P-day. During laundry, I sat outside and juggled my soccer ball. Then we all went and played soccer - 4 on 4. It was so fun. Elder Post plays soccer so I had someone to match up against. He is pretty good. We just played for a long time and then we shot some penalty shots. Then we went to a lunch appointment with the Belfords. We had a blast there. Sister Belford played the piano and me and Post accompanied her. Him on the guitar and me on the Mandalin. I just learned some chords really fast and it was cool. Then we played some basketball in their front yard. But then we went and played some really basketball at the church. I was playing great and kicked too of their butts. My outside shot was on and my drive was perfect. It was the best basketball we have had up here. I rocked the world today. Chris Journal, Monday July 26
Transfer Calls, but we didn’t get a call of course. We talked to Lynn Piipo again about the smoking program and hopefully she will do that soon. We spent a lot of time with Sister Weiss and she is so awesome. She’s a lot of fun to be with. We taught Wade a new member lesson and talked about a bunch of other things. The book that Dave Johnson gave me is so good. I have learned so much from Stephen R. Covey’s “Spiritual Roots of Human Relations”. I love the gospel and I am not ashamed of it. I know if I have faith that the Lord will help me and bless me. I have so much potential, but I must overcome my flesh and all other weaknesses before I can progress towards that eternal goal. Winning and success are not a once in a while thing, they are all the time things. I love missionary work and what an opportunity I have to spread the gospel. It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it. My efforts and diligence must be coupled with my faith for me to succeed. I must obey the law upon which blessings of baptisms are predicated. I must obey every mission rule and be bold and open my mouth. I must love my companion. Let’s rock this area. Chris Journal, Wednesday July 28/Thursday July 29
Today we met Misty at 8:00 and visited with her for a while. It was a good visit. The spirit was present as I testified to her that Heavenly father loves her and always will no matter what. She is having some rough times but I know that we can help her. The gospel can help her. I know that. I want so bad to show her how important she is to Heavenly Father. We hope to meet with her for breakfast on Saturday. Every chance I get I must teach her gospel principles. She needs our influence in her life at all times. She must build her foundation, her testimony, so that she can stand on it and rely on it. That is so important for her. With the Lord’s help and his spirit, we can do it. I love the gospel. Chris Journal, Thursday July 29
Today was a really busy, hectic day. We were going to go up to St. Ignace after Pam’s discussion but she had to cancel so we called up Rogers City people and headed over there. We taught Terry Lewis and I was really bold with him. I basically gave him the baptismal challenge. He either needs to commit to something or else we need to drop him. Then we checked some call backs, Amina, and did some door knocking. It was a good day. Then we headed backhand set up our booth for the fair. I hope we get a lot of names at our booth. This is a good opportunity. Chris Journal, Friday July 30
Today was pretty sweet also. We worked at the fair all morning and then we went door knocking for the whole afternoon. It was way hot and humid and a lon walk but we met a couple of cool people so it was worthwhile. We had a bunch of people sign up for Book of Mormons and for pictures at the fair also. We are giving away free pictures of the “Red Robe and “The Second Coming”. They attract a lot of people. So we added quite a bit to our finding pool today. And we need that. Tonight we stayed at Wade’s house and cooked smores and visited with them. I had a blast with Jessica and Samantha. Chris Journal, Saturday July 31
I can’t believe it’s already August. Time goes so fast. We had a good church meeting today. It was the last Sunday for the Alabama chick, Erin Johnson. Sister Weiss was trying to set us up and she said she was still going to get her address and make me write her. She thinks we would make the perfect couple - pretty funny. But she was really cute. We worked at the fair until 5:00pm and then went to Olga’s and had a huge dinner. Chris Journal, Sunday August 1
We were at the fair all day working our booth. But it was a good day. The Gaylor Elders came up to help us out and so I gave Hall, Dickinson, and Johnson haircuts tonight. I did a pretty good job. It is a good skill to have. Chris Journal, Monday August 2
Today was a totally radical day. We had a sweet district meeting in the morning. Then me and Hall had a nice visit with Pam and Sister Bourrie. We talked about a variety of subjects from temple to family home evening. It was really good. Then we worked at the fair until 5:00 when we went to dinner at the Muchilles. Chris Journal, Tuesday August 3
Today was really fun. We played some good basketball in the morning and then we headed to Traverse City late in the afternoon. While there, we did some good mall shopping at the Grand Traverse Mall and at the outlet mall. I bought a pair of Karl Malone Catapult B-ball shoes. I hope I like them. And I bought a soccer T-shirt and some new shorts. They are cool. Traverse City is a cool area. I would love to serve there. Chris Journal, Wednesday August 4
What an awesome day. Zone Conferences are just rad. I love them. We slept at Olaveson and Purringtons’ apartment and left there by 7:30 so we could get the car washed before our meeting. We got there and Waltman had come with President Waite. Elder Christofferson is a new Zone Leader with Elder Bush. They are awesome. Waltman did a great job with all his talks and his departing testimony They were inspiring and uplifting. And Christofferson gave an awesome talk on Leadership. He is just a stud. He is a great example and friend. I love those two guys a lot. And Pres. Waite have us some great counsel about goal setting and determination. He also talked about some changes that are taking place in the mission and I am stoked for the changes. They are all good and inspired and important for this mission right now. I like the shift of important leadership to the district leaders and the fact that now you will become a leader if you deserve it, not based on time you have out on the mission. We are going to set some good goals and I am going to see to it that they get accomplished. Waltman gave an awesome quote in his departing testimony. It says, “There is no chance, no fate, no destiny that can circumvent or hinder or control the firm resolve of a determined soul”. Hyrax Smith That is awesome and that is what I am going to do. Tonight we stayed at Wades. We didn’t get there until late but we got to talk just a little bit with him. It was a good talk. I felt the spirit strong. I taught him about Peter walking on the water, focusing on Christ and that if we can just focus on Jesus Christ, then we will reach our destination. As I testified of this to him, I liked at the pictures of Christ and the spirit plainly manifest to me - I mean powerfully - that this sweet principle is true. it was the perfect ending to a marvelous day. I really felt the spirit and am resolved to keep it and have it and use it. I know I can if I just focus on Jesus Christ and work towards my goals with him. I love the gospel. It is so true. It applies to everything. Chris Journal, Thursday August 5
The morning didn't start out the greatest because we were trying to teach Wade’s girls but they are busy doing other things. Then we had lunch with Sister Weiss and Jason at the truck stop. That was real fun. Then I was not very motivated so I knew we needed to go door knocking and it was pretty good. We talked to one lady who seemed very interested. We also taught Winifred today. I think she is ready for the fifth discussion. Today we just talked about temples and stuff like that. Tonight we ate at Eve’s with the Savards. It was an awesome meal and then we had a really good discussion with them. I got a letter from Chad Utley today. It was sweet to hear from him. Chris Journal, Friday August 6
Today was awesome. We had a good study session, then we stayed at the fair for about 5 hours. But tonight was the best of all. We started a fast after dinner. Then we had a companion inventory. We talked about goals and set tons of them - weekly, monthly, companionship, personal, etc. They are tough but attainable goals. I know we can do it if we work hard. We have committed to a schedule every day and as we follow it we will have the spirit and be successful. I am totally psyched for our area and for the things that are going to happen. We are going to have baptisms this month - it will be sweet. Me and Dickinson are both stoked and motivated to work together with Jesus Christ to accomplish the things we want to. Starting it out with a fast is the best way and tomorrow is going to be an awesome day. Chris Journal, Saturday August 7
Today was AWESOME! We woke up and followed our schedule to a tee. It was sweet because we got so much done. I read from the bible, Book of Mormon, memorized a scripture to help motivate Dickinson to memorize his scriptures for his pass off, and we had a sweet companion study. It was cool. At church, Dickinson gave a good talk and sis did Br. Johnson. And then I played “I Am A Child of God” on the piano. It was the best I have ever played it. It is a cool song and I love being able to play the piano now. It is a great gift. It comes in handy so much. And then was the best part - President Hoover was here for the day and he gave the best talk. He talked about his testimony of and experiences with the living prophets. And while he was sharing one story, the spirit overpowered me and plainly manifest to me that President Benson is a true and living prophet. I taught Eve’s class and then led the music for primary. And then after church we had the best correlation meeting because President Hoover taught us some sweet principles. He taught us about faith and showed us some promises contained in Jacob 5. it was just awesome. Anytime he speaks, I feast on his words. He has such sweet knowledge and knows how to teach it. I want to be like him, I really do. I seriously love that guy. We got 66 referrals from the fair, and 45 are for our area so the fair was worth it. Definitely. We had a sweet district meeting tonight. I made them come to the church here in Petoskey and it was another spiritual experience. I challenged and committed them to work hard with all their heart, might, mind, and strength. It was awesome. Oh year, I almost forgot. While organizing our referrals, Pres. Weiss called and told us about a man named Rocky who was having emotional distress and wanted to see us. So we prayed and warily drove over there. The guy was outside and looked kind of rough. As we got out of the car, I saw him grab a knife and walk towards us. I was about to freak out but then he said, “Don’t worry, I’m not violent” and put his knife in his sheath. But it scared me. I was about to take off or kick his butt. But it turned out alright. We will be teaching him on Tuesday. He needs to make a lot of changes but the gospel can work it. It was a great day. Chris Journal, Sunday August 8
We had a sweet P-day here. We did our laundry and stuff and then headed down to Charlevoix for the day. There we had an awesome time playing basketball and then beach volleyball. It was way fun and I got a little bit sunburned. Tonight we ate at the Bourries and then had a really enjoyable evening with them. It was cool. I am going to miss Pam when she leaves. That will be sad but exciting for her to see Greg again. Chris Journal, Monday August 9
Today was pretty cool. We spent the morning arranging all of our fair referrals. We divided them all into their different categories so that we will be able to check them easier. Then Olga took us to check all of the ones down in the Indian River, Onaway area. Only one person was home, however. But we found a good number of them at least. We will start concentrating on all of these Cheboygan ones. I know we will find success there. Chris Journal, Tuesday August 10
Today was pretty good. We were in St. Ignace and we only taught Winifred. But it was a really good discussion - we finally started the 5th discussion and it went well. We only got through half of it but that’s alright. I wish I knew how to get her to commit to baptism. She can’t continue to procrastinate the day of her repentance. We also helped Sister Savard move a bunch of stuff today and we ate with her. She is a great lady. It is neat that she is trying to improve her life by going back to school. I hope everything works out the best for her. Tonight we were at the Weiss’ and Joey got me and President Weiss to help him with a 500 piece puzzle and we couldn’t stop. Then there was a meteor shower so we went outside and watched it. It was totally cool. Meteors streaming through the sky. Me and Dickinson and Joey ended up sleeping out on the beach under the stars. It was really cool - a beautiful night to do it. Those stars really help show me that God lives - it is incredible. Chris Journal, Wednesday August 11
We had a pretty good day. we checked one lady this morning and gave her a picture of the second coming and talked to her on the porch for about an hour. We will be returning to give her and her husband the smoking program soon. Then after lunch, we headed to an appointment our on Riggsvilled Road and it ended up being about a 5 mile bike ride. It was very hot and we were sweating like crazy. But she was home and we delivered her picture and gave her a Book of Mormon also. For dinner we ate at Beth’s house and that was fun. I love her little baby Heather. She is adorable. Tonight we helped Sister Savard move some more things in preparation for her move next week. Then we slept under the stars again with Joey and their cat Nutsy. That was fun again. It was another beautiful night. Chris Journal, Friday August 13
Today was another day of service. We went out to Br. Cardigans farm and helped him “hay”. It was totally fun. Br. Hurdigan ran the tractor and Br. Trues dale, Pres. Weiss, me and Dickinson were all stacking hay on the tractor. It gave me a good workout and some sun also. We bailed about 80 bails or so. I wouldn't mind going out and helping him again sometime. Misty wasn’t able to meet with us tonight but I talked to her on the phone for a long time. Chris Journal, Saturday August 14
Today was pretty cool. Eve was the only one doing primary so I had to help her do that. But it was pretty fun. Wade didn’t come to church again, I don’t know what he is doing. I couldn’t sleep last night, laying there until 2:30. My thoughts were focused on Grandma Polson during my restless night. I don’t know why but I felt like something was wrong with her. I don’t know what I would do without my Grandma. She is the greatest and she would be a great definition of how to show love. Both her and Grandpa are so wonderful. I love them and miss them so much. I sent them a long letter expressing this. Chris Journal, Sunday August 15
P-day was pretty cool. I thrashed on those guys in basketball again of course. We did our laundry, shopping, and just wrote letters. But then Olga got off work and she took us to the Chinese Restaurant and then bowling. Olga won of course but I placed second. My scores were 109, 128 (high of everyone’s scores), and 92. It was a blast. Olga is awesome. Chris Journal, Monday August 16
We got to teach Terry Lewis and listened to a conference talk by Elder Lowell D. Wood and it was good for him. He finally asked some good questions and we were able to resolve some of his concerns. Olga drove us (me and Hall) there and back and she also took us to McDonalds for lunch. She is just awesome. Tonight was Donna Savard’s farewell party up at the Dewitts but we went down with Br. Trues dale to visit the Bolingers. We watched the firs vision video and talked to Jim about a lot of things but his heart isn’t open. But we were bold with him and that is important. Now it is up to him. Free agency is his gift also so he can do a s he wishes, unfortunately. We worked out at my Rec. Center tonight really quick and then watched What is Real as we ate some rice and pot pie. That movie is still my favorite. I just touches me every time. I love it and I do know it is real. The restored gospel of Jesus Christ is real. Chris Journal, Tuesday August 17
Today was pretty cool. We started out great as we checked on the Harrisons. Jim Harrison came out and talked to us and he is a stud. We are going to give them the smoking program on Monday night so that will be sweet. I feel good about them. We had a fun time at lunch at The Dockside with Sister Weiss. She is so fun to be around. We then went and taught Winifred Weiss, the rest of the fifth discussion nd we watched the “Windows of Heaven”, a show about tithing. It was a really good discussion. I think she is progressing. We had an awesome dinner at the Dewitts tonight. She is such a good cook. I love eating at her place. Then tonight we went to Donna Savard’s and helped her load up the U-haul. We basically did the whole thing and did an alright job with it I do believe. She is heading for Big Rapids tomorrow. That is pretty exciting for her. I hope everything works out as she hopes. They will certainly miss her up here in St. Ignace. Chris Journal, Wednesday August 18
Today was so awesome. I woke up early at 6:00am, said a morning prayer on my knees, then read the Book of Mormon for almost an hour. I was reading the last chapters of Mosiah and I was in tune. I really saw how fresh and awake my mind was when I put it right to work on the right subject. I got more out of the scriptures today than I have for a long time. I also read some of my book “Believing Christ” and we worked on our area book quite a bit to update it. We checked all our fair referrals in town here. It was so cool. Nearly everyone was home and happy and receptive. We delivered a bunch of things and set up return appointments all over the place. We set up 5 in the next 5 days. And we will teach them all first discussions and get them to church and feeling the spirit and into the waters of baptism. Then tonight, we went and saw Pam off. It may be the last time I ever see her. It was great to get to know her and to especially teach her about the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. She is awesome. I hope we can keep in contact. Chris Journal, Thursday August 19
I thought yesterday was a cool day, but today just rocked. We had the best pre-lunch proselyting of my mission. We went at 10:00 and taught a first discussion to Gary and Tina Beckwith. It was a really cool discussion. They accepted it and seemed very interested. They both committed to read and pray and also attend church on Sunday so that is totally awesome. Then we left their home and went and taught a first discussion to Tracy Pitman. That was totally sweet also. She also committed to read, pray, and attend church. We are bringing Sister Truesdale over tomorrow to watch Together Forever and so they can get acquainted and go to church together. I am totally psyched for both families. They both have a one and two year old. Sweet! Today I had to practice for Sunday. I have to play the organ for sacrament meeting and Sunday School. That is 6 new hymns by Sunday on the organ. But they shouldn’t be too hard. It is a good experience for me. We ate at Eve’s house tonight and had a really good time. It was just a sweet day. Chris Journal, Friday August 20
Today was pretty rad. We spent some time at the church so I could practice my hymns. I have the songs down pretty well but it will be tough playing them on the organ. But it will be a good experience. We took Sister Truesdale with us and showed the Pitman family “Together Forever”. We got to meet Tracy’s husband Jim and he is cool. They should all be at church tomorrow. Plus the Beckwiths should be there. Tonight we got a present and cake mix for Olga’s birthday tomorrow. We are going to over in the evening and have dinner and then sleep out there. It should be really fun. Chris Journal, Saturday August 21
What an awesome day. It was so rad. At church, I did a pretty sweet job playing the organ. I played Thou Rock of our Salvation, God our father hear us pray, As sisters in zion, called to Serve, and I believe in Christ. And I did a good job. It was a good experience. The Pitmans did show up to church and I think they really enjoyed it. Jim and Tessa left after Sacrament meeting but I think he enjoyed all that he saw. Tracy stayed all 3 hours and seemed very happy and welcome. It was great. Elder Waltman and Elder Mogle were both here visiting. I can’t believe that Waltman goes home this Friday. He was one of my first familiar faces out here. He is a total stud. I’m glad I got to know him. The mission is going to miss him. He and Mogle both spoke and did a good job. They are both good guys and good missionaries. The other speaker was President Rogers of the stake presidency. He reviewed Elder Faust’s visit from Stake Conference for us. Elder Faust is such a stud. He quoted him saying, “I am as the brother of Jared, I no longer have Faith, I know the Savior.” Such a powerful witness. The spirit confirmed it as true to me. I long for that kind of witness in my own life. We spent most of the rest of the day at Olga’s house. It was her birthday, she turned 63 and we got to spend it with her. We had a great dinner of course. Then we baked her a cake that we had bought. We had candles on it and gave her that and 2 presents. It felt good to do something for Olga after the millions of things she has done for me. She is the greatest person. I am really going to miss her if I get transferred on Thursday. All all things are pointing to me getting transferred this week. But maybe there’s a small chance at me staying for just one more month. I would love it. I wasn’t too sure a few weeks ago but I do love this area. The people are the greatest. I love it here. Tonight we had a bonfire on the beach and we are sleeping at Olga’s. Chris Journal, Sunday August 22
We woke up at Olga’s and did our laundry at her house today and ate a good breakfast and just wrote letters. We went to Gaylord for P-day, but didn’t do anything there. It was pretty lame. Olga took us home because we had a split to go on tonight. Br. Trues dale and I went and saw Tracy Pitman and read Alma 32 with her and just visited about gospel subjects. It was a great visit. Then tonight we played horse at the rec center because we didn’t play any hoop today. Chris Journal, Monday August 23
We had a pretty good day today. We were able to teach Tracy Pitman the second discussion and it went wonderful. We had to delve into a lot of details about the pre-existence and stuff like that to resolve a couple of her concerns but everything else went smooth. She accepts it all - she already knows the book of Mormon is true and everything else as well. We challenged her to baptism but she doesn’t feel like she has repented enough about one thing in her life and so I then modified the challenge and so she is praying to know the date by which she will be prepared to be baptized. As she learns and realizes the importance and significance of Baptism, and learns to Believe Chris, that he truly can save her. Then she will know she is ready. I am excited for her. The song “Oh Lord, My Redeemer” was just on and I love that song. It stirs up strong emotions for me about my savior. I do love Jesus Christ, my Elder Brother, so much and I know he died for me. I know how much he loves me and I know that he lives today and is pleased with my service to him on a mission. There is no better way to both learn of his love and to show him my love than by serving a mission. This is the greatest experience of my life. I am learning and growing so much. It is amazing the knowledge and testimony and faith that I have developed so far on my mission. It is truly the greatest blessing to be out here and I love my mission with all my heart. Chris Journal, Tuesday August 24
Merry Christmas! But the bummer is that my Christmas present from Pres. Waite is a transfer call. I am heading down to Ludington to serve with Elder Douglas. I will be district leader there and taking care of the old zone leaders area. Douglas was in Muskegon so we are both moving in brand new. It should be interesting. This morning I was kind of excited but the closer it gets the less excited I become. Or I guess the harder it is as I realize I have to leave this awesome area. The people are the greatest in the world. It took me all day and a million bags to pack today, but I finally stuffed it all in. Eve picked us up in Cheboygan and drove us to St. Ignace. There we helped Jane Weiss’ mom move some furniture and stuff. Then Sis. Weiss took us out to the Dockside for my farewell meal. Jason Porter was with us all night. He served in the Wisconsin mission and taught Ricky Weiss the discussions. He has been home for 1.5 years and is just visiting. We had a bonfire tonight at the Weiss. All of the people I love in this area were there. Wade and Jessica, Rick and Debbie and Stephanie Weiss, Gary and Jane and Joey Weiss, Olga Beth Beaudoin, Eve and Esther and Mayme. It was tons of fun. But I was at a loss for words and conversation. My emotions were so mixed up and my thoughts just weren’t organized. I feel bad because I should have been trying to make it fun for everyone but I was just bummed. It was really fun just to be with everyone, though. I still can’t believe it is over - I hate to leave these people. I sill miss them so much. This is terrible. But it is time to move on to do the things I need to do in Ludington.
Me and the Weiss’ and Jason Porter talked until really late at night - about 1:00 am. I had to get up at 3:00 to be all ready to be on the bus at 4:30am. So I slept outside to catch 2 hours of sleep. Pres. Weiss sleep inside and set his alarm so he could wake me up, but he didn’t get up. So he came out about 5:30 and told me that my bus was gone. Oops. We thought about driving down to Traverse City to catch the bus there, but we wouldn’t have made it so I had to call the APs. I talked to Mogle at 6:00 and explained the situation to him. Me and Dickinson and Pres. Weiss were pretty stressed out. But all Sister Weiss could do was laugh. Then she got me laughing because she was out of control. She knew it would work out and I found out later how that would happen. Eve Oneal came up with the plan for me to just drive down with them all the way to Big Rapids. We could visit Sister Savard there and then she could take me to Muskegon from Big Rapids. So when Ogle called back, I told him that plan and he said that would be alright. So now I am going on an excellent adventure with all the sisters of the branch. It is going to work out really cool because I will get more time to spend with all the members up here. So we are going to have a good time traveling down there. And I don’t have to ride a bus for 8 hours. Chris Journal, Wednesday and Thursday August 25-26
We had an awesome drive today. First of all, it was tough to leave President Weiss and especially Elder Dickinson. Pres. Weiss kept shaking my and over and over and Dickinson seems to have watery eyes. And then he put on his glasses and tears streamed down his face. I was really touched and had to give him one last hug. He is a stud and a great missionary. Then I was off with Sister Jane Weiss, Debbie Weiss, Jane Dewitt, and Eve Oneal. On the way, we listened to the tape I just got from home. And they all loved my family. I was so proud as they laughed at and complimented me and amy family. It was wonderful. We had a good ride - I enjoyed spending that extra time with them so much. We arrived in Big Rapids about 4:00. I gave them all another hug and it was hard. Then there were in the car, I leaned in and said goodbye. I turned around and fought back the tears. I couldn’t even wave goodbye. It was tough but as soon as they were gone, I was alright. I am going toms them all so very much. Sister Savard then drove me to Muskegon. We had a really good visit and a fun ride. As we pulled into Muskegon, I all of a sudden got really excited and anxious to see my old are and apartment and everything. It was really awesome. I saw all the sweet sights. If I was that excited to see Muskegon, I can’t even imagine returning to Cheboygan. It will be awesome. There, at my old apartment, I met Elder Douglas, Hunker, and Smith. My district. They are all pretty cool. I am excited to serve with them. We drove up to Hart and dropped those two off. Then we finally got to Ludington. The apartment is pretty sweet. We unpacked all night until 10:30. I got a lot done. The town of Ludington looks really cool. It is not a hole in the ground like I imagined. I will enjoy it here. Well, here I am, gone from Cheboygan, ready to rock this area away in Ludington. Let’s go thrusting. Chris Journal, Thursday August 26
