Chris’ Mission–Assistant to the President with Elder Tuckfield and Elder Rowley

This was a good Sabbath day. Church was excellent with some good meetings. And the rest of the day was somewhat relaxed. I really needed that because it has been so hectic and stressful recently. My companion is Elder Tuckfield. The Traveling Elders are Elder Rowley and Elder Wright. We did a lot of planning for the upcoming week and for the mission and for what the traveling Elders are going to be doing. These are great missionaries living with me here. They are really strong and committed and have such a strong testimony. Tonight we visited President and of course had an excellent time over there. President and Sister Waite are just fun to be around. They always teach me a lot. Sunday, July 24

We had an awesome Zone Leader Conference today. I was kind of worried about it because we didn’t really plan any of it until Sunday. The spirit was very strong throughout the entire day, but especially during the testimonies. We had Elder Peery lead a discussion on “Presenting the Message”, Elder Jenkins on “Charity”, and Elder Tuckfield on “Serving with you heart, might, mind, and strength”. These were all good. We also had a whole bunch of time where we just talked about issues as a group together. That was very beneficial to everyone. We got some important issues resolved. After Sister Waites lunch, we started our fast for Wilford Woodruff week. I think that helped to increase the spirit that was there during testimonies. It was a great conference. I hope the Zone Leaders can take that same spirit and information to their zones and relay it the same way. After the meeting, we got pictures and paperwork done. This conference was at the perfect time for me. I needed it so bad to lift me back up and get me where I want to be. So it was an extra special day for me. Tuesday, July 26

This morning we kicked off our Wilford Woodruff Week with an awesome Zone/District meeting. The Lansing Zone is looking pretty good. The Zone Leader, Elder Jenkins, did a great job and so did everyone else who contributed to the meeting. Basically it was a continuation of Zone Leader Conference yesterday. The spirit was the same. We had a day in the office after our meeting but tonight we were able to get some proselyting in so that was really good. Wednesday, July 27

Another full day in the office, but we accomplished some important things. We got the batch sent and a bunch of other things taken care of. Tonight we ate at Sister Waites and then headed to Kalamazoo with President. He talked at a meeting of the General Priesthood about missionary work and then we showed some role plays of how to talk to people about the gospel. I think it went very well. President did a great job, of course, and he also spoke to a group of stake missionaries about their responsibilities. It was a great evening. Thursday, July 28

Not too much out of the ordinary happened today. We worked in the office and then got out tonight to do some missionary work. We showed Qing and Dai a video and visited with them for a while. But the rest of the night was discouraging. Debbie dropped us and we didn’t have any success elsewhere. I was pretty discouraged, so when we got home, we went for a little jog. That felt good to get some exercise. Tomorrow will be better. Friday, July 29

We had a pretty good day today. We were in the office for much of it. We worked on all the bills in our Quick books computer program. We are getting all our systems cleaned out. I also worked a lot on the Mission History and started to get that all caught up. That is going to be quite a chore for me because I like to be so exact and detailed. I probably write too much on it. Sister Waite had us over for dinner. Great food and enjoyable company. I sure love them a lot. We got President to play some HORSE and I whooped them both but it was a good time. President is so hilarious. And then President had an interview with Elder Tuckfield which allowed me to have a nice visit with Sister Waite. It was a great night. Saturday, July 30

This was an awesome day. I felt the spirit of God with me so much. I woke up and had good scripture study, started my memorizing 1 scripture a day, had good talks with my compadres here, it was just good to focus again on the basics. At church, I really enjoyed the messages and really appreciated the sacrament. We had a sweet companion planning session today and set some challenging goals for the week and month. Elders Tuckfield, Rowley, and Wright are great missionaries. I appreciate being around them. We got to eat at the Hibberts today, possibly my last time because Melinda is heading out to spend a month in Utah and Steve will be going out there soon as well. They are awesome people. I have made some great friends on my mission. We got some good proselyting in, checked a bunch of call backs, and then had a late night talking totals at the office. But it was a wonderful Sabbath day. Sunday, July 31

I can’t believe it is already August. We had a good P-day. we were in the office for the entire morning and we almost had to drive down to Jonesville to pick up an Elder who has to get sent home for a belated confession. It’s really too bad because he would have been a good missionary. But it is important to repent appropriately. We got our P-day stuff done and didn't play any basketball because we were sacrificing. Then we got out and did some thrusting. Tuckfield and I got some good PCs and had a good night. Monday, August 1

Today was Kokwe’s birthday. I sent her a card. We had a very full day in the office. We were busy all the time. Another greenie came in to be with Elder Harps so we welcomed him with a great dinner with Sister Waite. Then they began their drive to Jonesville and we visited with the Waites for a time and then it was back to the office. We had a really late night because of Stake Correlation Reports, Zone Conference agenda, and straight gate totals sheets that we had to accomplish before Grand Rapids Zone Conference tomorrow. We finally got home and to bed about 12:30. Tuesday, August 2

This was a wonderful Zone Conference over at Grand Rapids. The missionaries there have really caught the vision and are serving with all their heart, might, mind, and strength. There is an exciting feeling and good spirit in the Grand Rapids and Muskegon zones. We heard some great discussions, but the best part of it all was the experiences that were shared from Wilford Woodruff Week. They were so blessed. In the Wyoming area, Sister Walker and Cox just ripped it up and got like 43 PCs, 19 New Finds, 16 Discussions. Grand Haven, Elder Jensen and Archibald, were close behind with 62 PCs, 12 New Finds, 11 Discussions. And many other areas did wonderful. In Hart, they found a lady on Friday (a member called them to teach her), taught her 3 discussions, she came to church, taught her 3 more discussions, and she was baptized on Tuesday. The entire process took place during Wilford Woodruff Week. We are just getting so blessed in the mission because of our extra diligence. We are being blessed, but the devil is also working overtime to try and get the mission discouraged and to stop this work. There have been 2 cars totaled in the last short while, much sickness, and dire circumstances that have required hospitalization. He is giving it his all to stop us,

BUT The Standard of Truth has been erected. No unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing. Persecutions may rage, mobs may combine, armies may assemble, calumny may defame. But the Truth of God will go forth boldly, nobly, and independent until it has penetrated every clime, visited every continent, swept every country, and sounded in every ear. Till the Purposes of God shall be accomplished and the great Jehovah shall say … The Work is Done!!!

This work will go forth and continue to roll until if fills the whole earth. I am so grateful for my opportunity to be a part of the progression. This is where my true happiness comes from, serving my Father in Heaven will all my heart. I love this work, it is the best. Wednesday, August 3

We had a very similar experience in the Lansing Zone Conference today. This stake has been leading the mission in baptisms and I think good things will continue to happen here. Tonight we got out and got some good proselyting in. We had an appointment with Charles, a man who we had contacted on Monday night. And then other people started rolling into his apartment. We met Al, his brother, and probably the main reason we were led to Charles. Al is awesome and interested. We were having a great first discussion, but then a man dressed as a woman and a couple friends came in and wanted to bash on us. They were sharing their wicked our opinions on God and Christ and all sorts of things. It chased the spirit away immediately. But I got bold and just bore my testimony that I know that God lives and that Jesus Christ is his son. And as I testified, the spirit hit me so strong and I knew it was true. I’m so grateful for the knowledge that I have been blessed with that God has a purpose and a plan for me. That is a pearl of great price. Al was still interested, however, and we will get back with him for sure. Thursday, August 4

This was such a fantastic day. We were at the office all day trying to get caught up on all of our responsibilities. We got a lot done. We finally got out door knocking at 7:30pm and the second door we knocked on, we found a man named John. He is from mainland China and is totally prepared for the gospel. He has been here in the United States for about 5 months. We talked to him for a minute and then decided to walk over to Qing and Dai’s house to see if they could help us teach him the first discussion. They were home and I am so glad. We introduced them to Joh and they became friends instantly. We taught him the first discussion and it went so well. He accepted everything we taught him and is very excited about the gospel. It is a privilege to teach him. And Qing and Dai are great helpers. It was an awesome night. We were led right to our next baptism. This work is the best. Friday, August 5

Yesterday we just pretty much worked in the office but today was another extraordinary day. We had the Lansing Stake Correlation meeting which was a good one. The stake had another great month. At church this morning, John came with Qing and Dai,and it ended up being the best day. Day was able to pass the sacrament for the first time today. I was just so happy for him and he did a great job. And then Dai and Li both shared their testimonies for the first time. It was so sweet. They were both very sincere and heartfelt and they expressed so much gratitude for everything. They both talked about Christofferson and the 2 Johnsons. It was so touching to me as I listened to them share their testimonies about what we had taught them. I couldn't stop the tears from flowing. I’m so grateful to be a part of their conversion. And as if the day wasn’t already awesome enough, we went to Qing and Dai’s and taught John (or Chen Jun, his Chinese name) the second discussion. He had loved church. After every song or prayer, he would ponder a little and then say, “Wonderful”. It was so neat. And he also loved the 2nd discussion. The spirit was so strong as we taught him about the atonement and Faith, repentance and baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost. He was just eating it up. And every time I testified of Jesus Christ, I was near tears. I was just really touched and in tune today. It probably has to do with my fasting and with how well everything is going. As we taught John about baptism, we helped him to create a strong desire to be baptized. He would say with such sincerity, “I want to be baptized.” We committed him for August 16 just in case I end up getting transferred back out in the field this month. I want to see him get baptized for sure. It was a great discussion. We are already like best friends. It is so neat how fast we can create these eternal ties as we teach the true gospel of Jesus Christ. There is nothing better in the world. This is truly the greatest work. I love it. Sunday, August 7

This was a pretty good P-day. We had our office and transportation meetings this morning, then we got all our P-day stuff done just in time to play a little basketball over at the church. Dave Rasmussen was there, the 6’7” guy who played for Wake Forest and is now playing professionally in Peru. And he was my man the entire day and he shut me down big time, but it was still fun. Tonight, we taught John the 3rd discussion. It went just as well as the first 2. He is so awesome. He wants to meet Jesus Chris to thank him. What a guy. Monday, August 8

We had another Zone Conference. Today we were in Kalamazoo and that zone gets better every month. There is not the excitement and enthusiasm like there is in other zones, but there are some good things happening. On the way home, we stopped in Battle Creek so that President could visit with another man named Waite to determine if they were related. Their family is awesome. They reminded me of home. Tuesday, August 9

Today we pretty much tried to get all ready for the busy weekend ahead of us. We had to prepare Zone Conference agendas, and Stake Correlation report, and all kinds of other things to make sure we were all set. It took us all day, then we taught during the evening, and then we had to go back to the office until really late. We have had a few days like this recently. But it is worth it for the opportunity to teach the gospel for a few hours every day. We went on splits tonight. Elder Tuckfield went with Roland James and taught Al the first discussion. And Blaine Tuft went with me to teach the fourth discussion to John with Li and Dai. Once again it was a fantastic discussion. He just keeps getting stronger and stronger. It was also neat because Dai believes that we must have known each other in the pre-existence. They are really catching on to the Plan of Salvation. It is awesome for me to watch Dai and Li explain the gospel to John. They have such strong testimonies and they continue to grow. John is progressing an an amazing rate, and retaining everything very well also. I love teaching these Chinese people. I now want to serve a mission over in China and open up the areas over there. I love being a missionary because of these experiences. Nothing could be better. Wednesday, August 10

We started on the road today heading up to Midland for Zone Conference. We just split up the Midland Zone and created the Saginaw zone this last transfer and it is helping a lot. It seems like these smaller zones are a lot better. All of my time as a Zone Leader was over the large zones and I know how hard it was to keep track of everyone. I wish they would have split Midland up when I was the Zone Leader. It allows you to get more personal and involved with all your missionaries. It was a good Zone Conference. Then we had our Stake Correlation meeting. And President was of course busy with interviews. I learned a new piano song, “A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief” arrangement. It is totally sweet. President had a long interview with Elder Hartvigson. He wants to go home and even bought a plane ticket for next Monday. That is so crazy. He says he is not having any fun out here, and do you think Jesus doesn't want me to have any fun? He also says he fulfilled his mission and that was to know Christ. He says he has done that so he can go home. President wasn’t able to get anywhere with him. Hopefully he will figure out what he is doing before it is too late. After all the interviews and everything, we finally headed towards Traverse City at about 10:00. It took a while to get President and Sister Waite into a hotel and then we drove to the Zone Leaders apartment, finally getting to bed at 2:00. Thursday, August 11

We have a good zone here in Traverse City. All of the Elders are good ones so of course we had a great Zone Conference. Olga had driven the Elders down se we had a nice talk and of course she invited me to stay at her house. Jon Hoover was also there - what an awesome guy. He pumps me up so much. After Zone Conference and Stake Correlation meeting, I headed North with the traveling Elders. I drove and it was so awesome to drive through Petoskey and up to Cheboygan. I was so excited the entire way because all the memories were coming back. I just love that area. I had some of the greatest times of my mission there. And it was the best staying at Olgas again. I walked on the beach and just wanted to sit up and reminisce all night. I kind of felt like going home. Friday, August 12

We woke up and of course Olga had a wonderful breakfast for us. Then we headed to St. Ignace for the rural harvest up there. I was so anxious to get there. Driving across the bridge again was a great thrill - the Mackinac Bridge is awesome. And then the reunion began. It was so sweet to see everyone - Debbie Weiss, Jane Weiss, President Weiss, Eve Oneal, the Truesdales, etc. I just wanted to visit all day, but we had to go out door knocking. They assigned me to Sister Suzy Mercer and Sister Melissa Mayer. Two of the most recent converts up here. We had a good time. But halfway through the day, I got transferred to be with Elder Warren because his companion got sick. Elder Warren is a blast to be around. We had fun. We all met back at Weiss Corp. at about 3:00 and the rest of the night I spent visiting with the members. We went over to Eve’s house and saw Esther. She is great. We spent some time with Eve and then went to Debbie Weiss’ for some homemade hamburgers. The St. Ignace Elders, Dupont and Cash, came with me and Elder Wright. Rick and Debbie are great hosts. We also met Jason’s girlfriend, Michelle, and she is going to start taking the discussions. After dinner, we met Tuckfield and Rowley over at Gary and Jane’s house. It was awesome to be back there also and to visit with them. Sister Weiss is the best. And then we had to head home in order to make it for church tomorrow. We left at about 9:00 and got home at about 1:00am. I drove for most of it and then slept the last leg. Well, it was a wonderful day. I love those people up there so much. I hated having to leave again. But I can’t wait to go up there again in October - that will be the best. So we will have an awesome time with my Mom and Dad in October. I can’t wait. Saturday, August 13

John came to church with Li and Dai again. He is doing great. Church was all really great, and so was the rest of the day but most of it was spent at the office. Being gone the last few days and with upcoming transfers made for a lot to do. But it is coming together. We attended the baptism of Bill Bloom also. The sisters at the University taught him. It was another late night. We didn’t get home from the office until after midnight. And there will be a few more late nights before this week is through. Sunday August 14

We had our office meeting as usual this morning. We basically just went over business and got acquainted with the new couple. Then we had our transfer meeting, finally. It took us a few hours, but it wasn't too bad with the number coming out and going home. We have about 25 moves planned, but of course there will be some changes before Wednesday as we ponder on it. Transfers are always fun to be involved in. We played some really good basketball in the afternoon. Then we got our laundry and stuff done. Tonight we taught John the 5th discussion with John Coakley and it went very well. He is doing awesome and he is great to teach. As we invited him to pay tithing there was no hesitation. Of course he will pay tithing. It was another sweet discussion and a great night. Monday, August 16

We worked all day in the office to prepare for this hectic week ahead of us. We have everything all ready and taken care of for the new missionaries and transfers and departing missionaries. I also got the transfer schedule for the Action Van all set up. So we are all ready. Tuesday, August 16

We started making calls at 7:00 this morning and finished before 9:00 so they went very smooth. There was only a couple of unhappy people and we knew they would be upset. But everyone else seemed happy. After the calls were over and we talked to all of the Zone Leaders to give them the scoop and then answered the swarm of phone calls that always come after transfer calls, we headed over to Presidents for some breakfast. He cooked up some awesome waffles again. I stuffed myself until I was sick but boy were they good. We hung out there for a while and then we had to run some errands. We got the oil changed on the van and I bought a watch and a pen. Then we headed to the airport and arrived just in time to greet the new missionaries. It ended up being the same scenario as last month. We were expecting 5 Elders but only 4 arrived. Once again, that put us in a major bind. We have to say “never mind” to one of the trainers, and make a whole bunch of other changes to make things work out. It turns out that we are going to have to send Elder Wright out into the field where the greenie was supposed to go and bring Elder Rowley into our companionship as an Assistant. So for the time being, we have lost our traveling Elders. But hopefully we can get a reassignment and work everything back the way we had planned. The greenies that did come look pretty good. A couple of them seem kind of head strong, but we hope their trainers can tame them and make them into good missionaries. There is one in particular that we are worried about. The sisters are going to be awesome missionaries, especially Sister Nannete White. I was very impressed with her. We got them all oriented and fed them a fantastic meal at Sister Waites and had a nice testimony meeting. It was a good evening. Another big day tomorrow. Wednesday, August 17

Well, I did my monthly tour of the mission again today. I drove the Action Van to do the transfers once more, but it was a very easy trip this time. I laid out a nice easy course and gave myself plenty of time to get everywhere. It was nice because I was always on time to every stop. I started out at the mission home loaded with Elder Sandoval, Wright, Sister Remington, and 4 greenies. We didn’t leave until 8:00 so we could enjoy a nice breakfast and morning. Once on the road, we headed to Battle Creek, then to Kalamazoo, then Grand Rapids, Mt. Pleasant, Midland, and then back to Lansing. I transported over 15 missionaries and it took 8 hours. Tonight we had the departing missionary testimony meeting and it was weak. I do not want to go home without a firm, unshakeable testimony. But some of this group, actually almost all of this group were lazy missionaries and don’t carry much power with them. Thursday, August 18

Well, we took those missionaries to the airport this morning, and it is good for the mission to see them go. We have to make the most of our missions and go home with power and with the countenance of Jesus Christ or else we didn’t do all that we could while serving. I have realized that I still have a long ways to go before I’m ready to go home. I want to go home on a high and to take all the growth that is possible with me. So I have a lot to do these last 2 months. The rest of the day we worked in the office and got things taken care of and got some proselyting in tonight. Elder Wright had to replace that greenie that didn’t show up so I am in a threesome again. Elder Rowley and Elder Tuckfield are both awesome companions. They love the work and have strong testimonies. I appreciate them and their desire and example. Friday, August 19

We were in the office most of the day. I was so glad to get out of the office when we did. We left at 3:00, ate a late lunch/early supper and then began a fast. This fast is what I need right now. The evening was filled with checking on some people and then we got a referral when we stopped into the office for a brief minute to pick up some things. While there, a lady from St. Louis called . She was a member, but her husband and brother-in-law were not. They were together here in Lansing and the nonmember husband told her on the phone about the rough time his brother is going through including divorce, lost business, economic problems, etc. He felt the only thing that could possibly save his brother was the Mormon church. So we were over there within 30 minutes. That impressed them and it was a good start. We taught him the first discussion. The spirit just wasn't as strong as normal. We can’t figure out why it wasn’t. We went to visit the Waites afterwards. They are awesome. Saturday, August 20

We had an awesome day all around. Church was wonderful. I played a piano solo for sacrament meeting. A very beautiful arrangement of A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief. John was at church, of course, and I just felt really good all day. After church, we had a companion planning session and then got some really good proselyting in. We only got to work for about 2 hours, but it was very productive. We found some good people. Then we broke our fast. It always feels good to fast. Then we headed to the church to prepare for and attend the baptism of Chen Jun. It turned out to be the sweetest baptism. We got it all set up and John arrived with Dai at 6:30pm. John and I changed into our whites and we were both styling. As I baptized him, I felt such a power between us. I have never felt the power of the priesthood that strong. As I said the prayer, I just baked in it and as I brought him up out of the water, he truly looked as if he had been reborn. He came up with a big grin and could barely contain himself and his excitement. he looked out at all the people then gave me a big hug and said Thank You. There could never be a greater experience than that. It was amazing. As we got changed back into our suits, he was so happy. John kept saying things like, “I will never forget this day” and kept talking about how good he was feeling. He told me whenever he things about his baptism, he will think of me. I have definitely made an eternal friend. The rest of the baptism was also great. Dai Wei had given the talk on baptism and did a great job. Elder Rowley talked on the Holy Ghost and Elder Tuckfield confirmed him a member. It was wonderful. A day that I will never forget. Sunday, August 21

This was a good P-day. We spent too much time in the office this morning trying to work out mile for next month. When we finally sorted it all out, we didn’t have much time left to get all the necessary things finished. But somehow we did it. And we had a little time for some good hoop. Monday, August 23

This was a sweet day. We got a lot accomplished in the office and then we got some awesome proselyting in during the afternoon. We found some really neat people to teach. Then we headed down with President Waite to Battle Creek to participate in the local vision TV program. We were there to be on television and it was a ton of fun. There was me, Rowley, Tuckfield, and President Waite. President took time at first and spoke to the camera. He was bold. It was awesome. Then the organizer of the show started asking us some questions about why we came on a mission and why we don’t date etc. Then he started asking the most common questions and it turned out that he gave me all the hardest ones. “Why do bad things happen to good people”? How many wives can a Mormon have”? I said my Dad had three, but then laughed it off and answered the question. It was a fun time on camera. Tuesday, August 23

We got some good work done in the office today and some good proselyting. But the fun started tonight when we went over to visit the Waites. We had a great meal and then President gave me a haircut. It is really short, but I think it looks good. Then we just chatted forever. President told us all kinds of stories about everything. We were also trying to fix his computer and we didn’t leave until after 3:00 am. Crazy. I finally went to sleep on the couch at 1:30 but still didn’t get enough sleep. Wednesday, August 24

Merry Christmas! I wore my Christmas tie and suspenders today and talked Rowley and Tuckfield into joining me. So we celebrated and even listened to a little music for Christmas. We were able to teach a first discussion to a man named Claude from South Africa and we did some work in the office, but otherwise didn’t get much done today. Thursday, August 25

Today was a good day, we got a ton accomplished. We took Presidents Pontiac for the oil change and did a ton of work in the office. This evening we had dinner with Li and Dai and the Ereksons and John and his tutor. It was a great time. They all continue to do very well and it is so wonderful to see. Friday, August 26

This weekend has been wonderful. We spent much of Saturday over at Presidents for a good breakfast and a productive discussion about what we need to do in the mission to get us to the next level. We talked about a bunch of important things and I think we came up with some good answers. We also started a fast this afternoon with President and Sister Waite and the Zone Leaders and their companions. It was a good fast and will bring a lot of power to our Zone Leader Conference on Tuesday. I love to fast, I feel such a strength from it. We taught a couple of very nice young men from mainland China. Their names are Guangfie and Unchang. It was a great discussion. And tonight we taught Latrice. It was one of the most spiritual first discussions ever. She has the light of Christ with her very powerfully and I related very well with her. I taught the second principle about Jesus Christ and felt near tears. And then after Joseph Smith was taught, I followed up with possibly the most powerful testimony I have ever shared of Joseph Smith. Tears came, and I felt the spirit so strong. It just burned inside of me. My testimony was strengthened. Elder Rowley later said, he was just trying to stay out of the way of the incredible spirit that was flowing from me to her. So Saturday was a great day. Sunday was also great. I love being in this ward. Sunday, August 28

What a P-day. We did all our regular meetings and P-day necessities this morning. Then we met the Zone Leaders and companions at the church for some of the best ball of my mission. we had quite a few college level players and there were some competitive games. So fun. Tonight I went out and worked with Elder McMorrow. He is a stud and we had a blast. we contacted on campus and walked all the way to University Village to talk with a wonderful family who have been on my mind a ton lately. We visited there and got a return appointment and then started jogging back to Campus. When we got there, we set a goal to get at least 3 more Personal Contacts before we got back. We said a prayer, covenanted with the Lord, and turned around to look for people. We saw two girls, walked to cut them off and got 2 PCs. We soon got one more. The Lord provided more and my faith and wonder grew even greater. What a great work. Monday, August 29

We had our Zone Leader Conference today and it was a wonderful meeting. Most of the time we just turned over to President Waite and he totally inspired us all. I conducted the meeting and there was a very good spirit to it. We talked with the Zone Leaders about what we are going to do to get the mission going. Last Saturday, we had come up with the problem being that the missionaries don’t know Jesus Christ well enough. So our focus now is to help them to really get to know Jesus Christ. And what is our greatest tool for that? The Book of Mormon of course. So we set up a Book of Mormon study schedule that the whole mission will be following. And it is definitely inspired. Our focus is to go slower through the Book of Mormon and really feast on it. And this has already helped me. I have grown as I have refocused my efforts in studying from this wonderful book. And I look forward to a lot of growth ahead of me as I continue to do so. The conference was great. The Zone Leaders are all very excellent missionaries and are fully supportive of this new program. I am excited to see what will happen. It will be awesome. Tuesday, August 30

Today was the Lansing Zone Conference. It was a great meeting of course. President pretty much filled the entire morning in the schedule talking about what we are going to do as a mission. He was awesome of course. I took some time to give some insight on 1st Nephi in the Book of Mormon. The afternoon was filled by a couple of discussions and testimonies. Tonight, Elder Wright and I went on splits with Rob McDaniels. I went to high school and Junior High with Rob. We hung out a little bit but not much. The awesome thing is that he was a nonmember at the time, but has since joined the church and is very strong and is engaged to be married in the temple this October. It is wonderful how the gospel works and what a small world it is. It was awesome to see him. Friday, September 2

This was a great day. We spent some time with Chen Jun to teach him about the priesthood. he will be ordained tomorrow. We also got a bunch of work done in the office, trying to get ahead before next weeks 3 Zone Conferences. Yesterday we got the new Elder from the Philippines and sent him to be with Elder Moore in Kalamazoo so Elder Wright is back with Elder Rowley as a traveling Elder. It is good to have them out helping to train missionaries again. And it is good to be just with Elder Tuckfield again. Saturday, September 3

This was such an awesome day. The Sabbath really has been a treat for me recently. We were fasting of course and I get so much strength from that. The highlight of the day was I got to ordain Chen Jun to the office of a Priest in the Aaronic Priesthood. That is such a great opportunity. And Dai Wei was able to participate in the circle as a priesthood holder. Awesome. After church, we had a wonderful discussion with Claude. We taught him the second discussion and he accepted everything well. I think he will be baptized for sure. It was a very spiritual discussion. Tonight we were at President’s until really late and had a wonderful time as always. They got into their childhood tonight. It was a blast to hear all their stories. They are the greatest. Sunday, September 4

I can’t believe it is already Labor Day. We didn’t have an office meeting because of that so we actually had a pretty normal P-day. It was nice. We got to doc normal studying this morning and completed all of the necessary P-day activities and we even got to go golfing. That was pretty fun. I got one birdie and ended with a 43, but it was a pretty easy course. We had a barbecue at the Steeds for lunch with Elder Halliday and Gyori and then had a barbecue at the institute for dinner. And tonight we got some good proselyting in. It was a great P-day. Monday, September 5

We had to do so much paperwork today. We did totals for last week and worked on the Stake Correlation reports and Zone Conference agendas for the next 3 days. We also did some good finding and teaching. We went on splits with David Adams and got some sweet work accomplished. But then we had to go back to the office and had a late night finishing up all of our preparations for the rest of this week. Tuesday, September 6

We headed to Grand Rapids just after 7:00 and had a great Zone Conference. There are a few disobedient missionaries here, but many more good hardworking obedient missionaries. After the meeting, I had a good time visiting with a bunch of the missionaries. We got back to Lansing just after 10:00, ate some dinner, and then got some more paperwork done at the office. But we were in bed before 12:00 so it wasn't too bad. Wednesday, September 7

This was an awesome Zone Conference up in Midland. The spirit was here a lot stronger today. After the conference I had a sweet time talking to Elder Christofferson. Since I finally got my acceptance to BYU, we could finally make some plans with that. And we talked a lot about going home, our feelings about that, what it will be like, and what we are going to be like. It was really good to talk some of those things out with him. We had an awesome correlation meeting. The highlight was President Pulsipher. He has a wonderful spirit and totally inspires me. He gave some wonderful counsel and he makes me want to be like him. While listening to him, I put another goal in my planner. Be a leader in the church so that I can have that kind of a spirit and those leadership types of experiences. I hope that is a righteous desire. I drove up to Traverse City tonight and enjoyed the ride so much. Everyone else was asleep and I just pondered and contemplated many things. I really felt the spirit and worked out a lot of things in my mind for the rest of my mission and for when I get home. I really needed that time to think and work those things out. We got to Traverse City about 1:00 and got the Waites in a hotel and then headed to the Zone Leaders apartment to sleep there. But there were already the Gaylord Elders there, so we decided to go to the other apartment. I called Elder Warren up and he was still pretty much asleep and didn’t know what was going on so I had a good time messing with him. It was hilarious and he is a good sport so he takes it well. We finally got to be about 2:00am. Thursday, September 8

Elder Tuckfield woke up very sick today. So he stayed at the apartment in Traverse City all day and slept while I attended the Zone Conference. It was a good meeting. Everyone seemed really tired so it was kind of a slow day. I went with Elder Warren a couple times to check on Elder Tuckfield. It was a blast hanging out with Warren, but Tuckfield didn't get much better throughout the day. I was really worried about him. He didn’t loo like he could travel all the way back to Lansing. But President was also sick and it would be much easier for them both to recover at him so we headed out about 10:00. President was driving so I fell asleep in the back seat but woke up when he pulled over to get a little rest himself. Tuckfield was looking worse and had to go the bathroom. So I took him down off the road and after that we knew we had to get him to a hospital. We were about 20 miles outside of Clare so we went to the Emergency Room there. I was not impressed by the slow work there. It took forever to get him looked at and treated. But I was impressed by the doctor. He sure knew his stuff. Just from smelling Tuckfield’s breath, he thought he had a lower GI bleed. And it turned out much later that he was right. They had 2 IV’s in him and took a bunch of blood for tests. He had to do a rectal exam and also had to put a tube down his nose to drain his stomach. They pulled out some gross stuff from his stomach. I watched all this with much interest, both in how everything is done and especially to see how Tuckfield was doing. He didn’t look very good at all. He was pale and sick looking. It was bad and eventually they decided to admit him to the hospital. President and Sister Waite and myself finally left at about 5:00 to head back home. I drove all the way and it was one of the hardest times I have ever had driving. I could barely stay awake. But somehow I made it to the mission home and crawled upstairs and into a bed there. I couldn’t wait to sleep. Friday, September 9

For last night’s sleep, I went to bed at 6:30am when the rest of the mission was getting up. That was weird. I had to change my prayer all around before I crawled into bed. After about 5 hours of sleep, I woke up at 11:30 and had a wonderful Sister Waite breakfast. I visited with her and President Waite for a few minutes and then left on my own in the van. It was weird to be all alone without a companion. I drove to our apartment and got all cleaned up and then drove back up to Clare to be with Elder Tuckfield. I got there in the late afternoon and found him doing a little better. They did a scope of his stomach and found ulcers. They had been bleeding causing him to lose blood through his stools. So it was a very serious thing. It is good we got him to a hospital when we did. They are taking good care of him and we hope to get him better and out of her in the next couple of days. I haven't done much here, just journal writing and scripture study. Saturday, September 10

Elder Tuckfield was doing well this morning so the doctor released him and we got out of the hospital. We got back and got all cleaned up and headed to the office. We had our transfer meeting for this Wednesday and then just got ready for tomorrows Zone Conference in Kalamazoo. There was a ton to do and I didn’t get a single P-day activity completed. But I’m okay on shopping and I don’t have to do laundry for a couple more days. The transfer meeting went pretty good. There aren't too many necessary changes so we should have less than 30 transfers. We enjoyed a wonderful dinner with President and Sister Waite and spent some time with them. But I had to go back to the office again to finish up there. So it was another late night - I will have plenty of those this week, especially with Elder Tuckfield so sick. But with strength in the Lord, I can do all things. Monday, September 12

We were off early to Kalamazoo. I took Elder Wright as my companion today and it was a great conference. We had a Satellite broadcast from the MTC today that cut into our planned agenda. Me and Wright inspected all the cars while President took most of the morning. But he left about 45 minutes before the conference so I got up and winged a talk to fill that time. I love being able to just share things without preparing. There is no way I could ever do that before my mission. Then we watched the Satellite broadcast and it was excellent. Looking back, I was pretty foolish. I sandwiched myself between President Waite and the General Authorities. Oh well. We heard from Elder Haight, Maxwell, Ballard, and then President Howard W. Hunter. As he came in, everyone sang We Thank Thee Oh God for a Prophet. It was powerful. I felt the spirit strong and knew that he was a prophet of God. I wanted to convey my love to him. He gave us a wonderful address, so nice to hear the words directly from the mouth of the Prophet. Then we had testimonies and they were all very powerful. It was the best Zone Conference we have had in Kalamazoo. The ride with President and Sister Waite was awesome as usual. I learned a ton as we discussed the scriptures and the gospel. We got back about 10:30 and I did some things at the office to prepare for transfer calls in the morning. I finished about 12:00 and then Elder Wright and I talked for a couple hours. I have a lot of concerns about going home and it was great to talk to him. Tuesday, September 13

I’ve only got one more month from today as a missionary. That is scary. I woke up Elder Rowley at 5:30 so we could get over to the office to start transfers. We only had one phone line at first so it was going pretty slow, but then the other one started working as well and we got through all the calls. We made 29 transfers. We didn’t get out of the office until 1:00, grabbed some lunch, did my laundry and then headed out to the airport to pick up the greenies. A deaf sister was supposed to get here at 4:06 but she missed her connection. And the plane with the greenies was 30 minutes late so we got a late start. We got the Elders started on the orientation process and then Tuckfield and I ran back to the airport to get the deaf sister. We had a wonderful dinner and then went though the agenda for the evening with testimonies and interviews. It was a nice evening and this is a solid group. They will be good missionaries. After all was finished, they went to bed and we talked to President about assignments. Me, Tuckfield and President all had the exact same ideas about who should go where so we know they are right. Another testimony of the revelation process given in this work. It is neat to see. Wednesday, September 14

Another late night last night and early morning today. That is every day this week. We got up at 5:30, grabbed some breakfast , loaded up the van, and then I headed on my monthly tour of the mission. I did the loop counter clockwise this time, going to Midland, Mt. Pleasant, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Battle Creek, Jackson, and back to Lansing. I transported 20 missionaries, drove over 400 miles, but had a good time visiting with everyone and being with the missionaries. I have they Action Van transfer process down. This was my 4th time doing is and I am a pro. Anyway, we got back at 4:10 (10 minutes off schedule) and enjoyed the departing dinner at 5:00 after which we got to participate in the testimony meeting. Elder Gardner flew out on Tuesday, so departing tonight was only Elder McMorrow, Durtschi, and Sister Cahoon. Elder McMorrow was a great missionary and will be missed. Only 4 visitors came to see them off so it was a small but good gathering. I can’t believe it is my turn next. Not happy about that. Thursday, September 15

5:00 came awful early this morning, but I dragged myself out of bed ad Rowley and I took the departing missionaries to the airport. We got them off okay and then headed back to the apartment and I grabbed a couple more hours of sleep. I felt much better after that. Things at the office are way behind and disorganized so we headed there to try and get some things caught up. Me and Rowley left at 3:00 to deliver a video and then to teach David Johnson, a member referral, the first discussion. He has been so prepared to accept the gospel and will be baptized. It was an awesome, spiritual discussion. He has been praying and will continue to do so and to read the Book of Mormon. He is so golden, he said things like “I don’t know how long you want to wait in between discussions but I would like to go through them fast, in a couple weeks or so.” It is a total blessing to teach him. This evening, we taught the 2nd discussion to the Becerra’s. It went very well and I was glad to get to know them. They are an awesome family. And tonight, I finally got to bed on time. The first time in a long time. Friday, September 16

We are so far behind in the office. There is so much to do. We made an attempt to get caught up and almost made it. Notre Dame was on campus today playing against MSU and MSU lost by a point. We also had dinner with the Hibberts tonight. It was great to have them back from Utah. I am glad it is Sunday tomorrow so I can go to church and partake of the sacrament. It has been 2 weeks since I was in the hospital last Sunday with Elder Tuckfield. Saturday September 17

This was a great day. It felt so good to go to church and partake of the sacrament. It seems weird that I can tell such a difference after only one week off. I love church now. The rest of the day was so busy. We had a teaching appointment with David Johnson and taught him the second discussion. It was great. The spirit was very strong and he accepted our invitation to be baptized on October 2. I am so excited to have a baptism during my last 2 weeks. Tonight we had a missionary fireside so that all the members could bring their nonmember friends and we taught a first discussion. But none of the members brought any friends, so we taught a first discussion to a bunch of members. Sister Reber and Cox taught the 1st two principles and Rowley and I taught the rest. It was a lot of fun. We brought some humor into it to make it interesting for the members. It turned out good. Sunday, September 18

We headed to the office early this morning and got going on totals for the last 2 weeks. The mission is not doing great. We only had 15 baptisms so far this month. We have to get at least 30 a month. We can’t figure out why the baptism numbers aren't going up. We need to find a solution. This afternoon, we headed down to Battle Creek to be on the TV show “Meet the Mormons” again. It was easier this time. President and Sister Waite were on it with Me and Rowley and Tuckfield. It was a total blast. On the way home, the Waites took us to Cracker Barrell for dinner. It was a great night. Tuesday, September 21

Elder Rowley and Tuckfield dropped me off at the office this morning while they went and taught a first discussion to Dan Dugan. I worked on a bunch of things and then attended the District Meeting with the Lansing districts. I went to the first one and talked to them about how we can improve things, then jumped over to the other district and observed and talked with them. It was valuable for me to spend some time with them I think. Most of the rest of the day was in the office, but tonight Tuckfield and I taught Li and Shufin. They are from Taiwan and they are really messed up on the wisdom of the world. Rowley and Chris Vaas taught David the 3rd discussion and he continues to prepare for his baptism. Wednesday September 21

The office work is piling up. We had a big AP meeting today to go over our responsibilities and to prepare for Zone Leader Conference. Things are coming together and we will have a good month. We will be mainly focusing on training the leaders in the mission, especially the Zone Leaders. That will be our focus at ZLC and we will be going trade-offs with the Zone Leaders also. Tonight we got to teach Anthony. He is progressing very slowly. We also made good contact with David Johnson. It was a good day. Thursday, September 22

This was a pretty awesome day. Elder Rowley and Elder Tuckfield went and did trade-offs with Chamberlain and Gurr in Battle Creek. So I went to the office and worked there all day. I got all kinds of things done. It was very busy but productive. Then tonight I went home with President and spent the evening with the Waites at the Mission Home. It was a blast. I had dinner with them and visited with them forever. My companions got back about 8:30, but we stayed there until after midnight. The Waites are so fun to be around. Tonight, President played some old music and showed us his dancing moves. It was hilarious. They are the greatest and I love them a lot. Friday, September 23

We got caught up on everything at the office finally. It is a good thing because the upcoming schedule is crazy all the way until my departure. We got to spend a little time with the Waites. They have really been missing us because we haven’t come around much. So we will have to visit them more this next week. That is part of our responsibilities and privileges as APs. Saturday, September 24

Merry Christmas! My last Christmas out here as well as my last Fast Sunday. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to fast, to get closer to God. There is nothing quite like a good fast. It really cleans you out both physically and spiritually. Church was excellent. Dai Wei and Chen Jun are like official sacrament passers and Dai Wei is now called as the Aaronic Priesthood coordinator. That is so awesome. I love the Sabbath Day, especially Fast day because we get time to just meditate and ponder about things. That is time I really need every Sunday to work things our in my mind and heart. Tonight we took totals and things don’t look as bad as before. We have had 28 baptisms with a possible 2 more. Sunday, September 25

This was an awesome P-day. I hadn’t played any basketball for a month so I was excited to play. All the Zone Leaders were here and we played some good ball. There are some excellent players. Backus, Heiner, Halliday, and I am probably next best. We started playing at about 2:00 and I stayed on the court until 4:45 because my team never lost. I was playing so good, lighting it up from 3 and driving in for many easy layups. It felt good to play like that. Tonight I split with Elder Dickinson and we contacted on Campus. We had a great time working together gain and got 16 good PC’s. It was an awesome day. Monday, September 26

2 years ago today was my farewell talk back home. I can’t believe it has already been that long and that it is almost time to return home. Today was Zone Leader Conference and it was the best meeting I have attended on my mission, or every in my life for that matter. We had put a lot of prayer and thought into this day and it paid off. Most of the morning was filled with training. The office couples took some time on their responsibilities and how they deal with the Zone Leaders. And President gave us a wonderful welcome where he talked about the Book of Mormon and really brought the spirit into our meeting. Then we took the rest of the morning and over an hour past normal lunch time to train the Zone Leaders in their responsibilities. It went very well. The spirit was really strong and many valuable items were discussed and clear ideas presented. It was time well spent. And then we got into the spiritual phase of the meeting. I knew it would be good because of how spiritual it had already been so far. Sister Waite shared a talk, a story called “My Big Brother”. It is one of my favorites and really got everyone thinking about Christ which fit in perfect with our plans. Right after she was done, I called Elder Backus up and really built him up in front of everyone. I just basically shared my thoughts about him and my feelings for him. I really have a deep love and respect for him so it was easy to be sincere building him up. Then I invited others to share something about Elder Backus. That really got the spirit even stronger. Then I began asking people questions. I first asked Elder Warren “How bad to you want to return to live with Heavenly Father?” The spirit was so strong and he was so choked up that it took him quite a while to answer. Then I told Elder Backus to do 15 pushups. He whipped them out and I asked Elder Jenkins, “What are you willing to do to return to God”. After his answer, Elder Backus had to do 20 pushups. I went on and asked about 20 different people questions. I also used “What think ye of Chris?” and “How important is it for you to return to live with God?” and What is your greatest goal in life?”. And I asked President Waite, “How important is your relationship with your wife?” All the questions were Christ centered of course and we received great responses. But President gave the greatest response. He explained how his relationship with Sister Waite and his relationship with God and Jesus Christ are essentially tied together. He taught some great principles. And in between every question, Elder Backus had to perform between 13-25 pushups. He is in good shape and didn’t have much problem with it, and we helped by counting them out for him. It is an object lesson that I really enjoy. Elder Backus had to count the last 25 out loud by himself while the rest of us faced the other way. I felt the spirit so strong right then and I wanted to help him so bad. He represented the Savior, of course, and how his suffering makes it possible for us to return to God. It went well and I think most of the missionaries caught the vision of what happened. Then we flipped on the video, “To this end was I born”. That is the most powerful thing I have ever seen. It depicts the Savior and makes it so real to me. It is so well done and has such a power with it. I cried like a baby through much of it because it strikes such a deep chord. Because he did that for me, He suffered and bled, and died for me. I love the Savior so much and am so grateful for his wonderful atonement. This was the strongest spirit and feeling of love I have felt for him. And in the video, as the Savior triumphed over death and returned to the Spirit World, I felt such love and gratitude for him and joy because he accomplished what he was sent to do. It was overwhelming. Words cannot express what I felt in my heart but I pray that I may always retain the feelings that I had. Oh it is wonderful that he should care for me enough to die for me. Oh it is wonderful, wonderful to me. The atonement of Jesus Christ is real. He did atone for our sins. What love, what compassion, what humility and condescension and dignity. I am ever grateful to him and will just follow him and try to be like him.

After the video, many people went for kleenex and to the bathroom real quick and then we started testimonies. They were wonderful, all of them, because they were centered on Jesus Christ. Everyone shed tears and felt the spirit and hopefully increased their testimonies. It was a privilege and a strength to me to hear the powerful testimonies that these fine Elders carry with them. After they were all through, I got up to give my Departing Testimony. I never thought this day would come, and I never imagined it would be as hard as it was. I was crying and had a hard time controlling it. It was hard to share all that I wanted to. I shared a little bit about my coming on my mission and how the Lord had a hand in my life to get me out here. I shared a couple of scriptures and talked a lot about my testimony of the Savior. I share my testimony of the Book of Mormon and the Prophet Joseph Smith. And shared a little bit of experiences I’ve had out here. I also hared a quote from Grandpa Poisons letter which says, “It would seem to me that being on a mission is much like raising a prize rose in the garden. When you have prepared the ground, planted the plant or seeds, tended to them to the best of your ability and then see the beautiful flowers that come from all your efforts, it is hard to have the end of the growing season come and see the petals wither and drop off and know that what you have cherished for so long is no longer a part of your life. At this time it is best to go on with your life and know that you can grow other gardens that are just as beautiful and rewarding, even though they are of a different nature.” That is such an awesome quote and Grandpa sent it so me just at the right time. After I shared my testimony, and realized it was time to sit down, it really hurt. I didn’t expect it at all, but it hurt bad. I shot out an ending, sat down and cried for a good 10-15 minutes. I have never cried that hard, I don’t think. I don’t think I have ever cried as much in a single day as I did today either. There are lots of tears, but it was a fantastic day. One that I will never forget. It is just so hard to see my mission coming to an end. I love this work so much. I’m so grateful to be a missionary and to have experiences like today. These days make all the struggles and challenges so worthwhile. I’m grateful for all the wonderful missionaries I am able to associate with and serve with and for the great love I feel for them. I’m grateful for President and Sister Waite for their great love and example. And I’m especially grateful for my Father in Heaven and for Jesus Christ and I will live with them again because they have provided a way. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen. Tuesday, September 27

We had such a wonderful day yesterday, but we got a bunch of trials today. One of our great sisters has had a lot of physical problems and was on some drugs for them and her companion had to play the organ at a funeral so they had a recent convert stay with her as she slept. Well, this lady molested her while she was sleeping. It is a bad situation. We also have an Elder who thinks his companion is of the devil and brings the devil into their apartment. So we are making a few transfers tomorrow. Also, one of the Elders has to go home for health reasons and so Elder Wright has to go back into the field again. Tonight, Elder Wright and I stayed up really late talking about a bunch of things. He is so awesome, a good friend. I will miss him. Wednesday, September 28

I did a bunch of transfers today so I was in the Action Van traveling around. We met at the mission home at 8:00am and headed out shortly after. I am usually rushed on these transfer days, but today I just took my time and visited with everyone I saw. I took Elder Wright to Athens, Elder Hodges to Jonesville, then back to Marshall where I picked up Sister Remington and Cox and back to Lansing with Elder Oyler to St. Johns and Olaveson with me. It was a pretty enjoyable trip. We got back and all finished up about 4:00 and went to the office where I wrote up our Straight Gate message for the month. Then Olaveson and I ate some dinner and headed up to Midland to do a trade off with Elder Jenkins and Peterson. We got up here about 9:30 so just visited until bed time. I am really going to miss spending time with other missionaries. It is so awesome to visit together about things and pray together. There is just a special missionary tie that we enjoy together. I really love that. Thursday, September 29

This was an awesome day. I loved it so much. We got up and had good personal study, companion study, and a normal missionary morning. Then at 9:30 we started our missionary work for the day. I gave Jenkins a Personal Priesthood Interview which was awesome. I really enjoy a great love and friendship with him. He is an outstanding missionary. We had a good long visit where the spirit was strong and we discussed many important things. Then we got out and did missionary work. It wasn’t too productive but it was sweet to just be out doing the work. I had a great time, especially being in my old area of Midland. We checked for a lot of people that I knew but didn’t really find anyone home. We also had a few minutes at lunch where Christofferson and Nordahl came over and visited. That was sweet. Then at 3:00 we headed over to Saginaw to work with Elder Behunin and Painter. They are a couple great missionaries also. I worked with Elder Painter. He is excellent. Our highlight was a great third discussion with Loretta who will be baptized in a couple weeks. It was wonderful to be out on the front lines doing missionary work. That office syndrome caught me the last few months so it was great to be far away from the office. I love this work so much. I’m excited for General Conference tomorrow. Friday, September 30

I really can’t believe it is October. My mission is down to a matter of days. I am really going to miss it a whole lot. Especially days as awesome as this one. It was General Conference and it was the Solemn Assembly, so it was extra special. First of all, we sustained President Howard W. Hunter as a prophet, seer, and revelatory, and as President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. This was done in Quorums beginning with the First Presidency, the Quorum of the Twelve, the Seventy, High Priests, and Elders Quorums, and the offices in the Aaronic Priesthood. Then everyone was invited to stand and sustain the action. It was awesome to be part of this historic action. Then many marvelous messages were given. My favorite speakers were Pres. Hunter, Pres. Hinckley, Richard G. Scott, and Jeffrey R. Holland. Elder Scott never once looked at the teleprompter, he is amazing, and his message will help me as I return home. And Elder Holland, wow. This was the first time I have heard him speak and I was so impressed. I love General Conference and can’t wait for tomorrows session. Sunday, October 1

I wish we could have General Conference more often. This was the sweetest weekend ever. I felt the spirit so strong and learned so much today. We heard from al the greats in the First Presidency, Boyd K. Packer, Russell M. Nelson, etc. The speakers were al really bold. Elder Nelson gave a wonderful talk on the temples and got me all excited to go there. Elder packer gave some valuable insight on revelation and how it is received. And President Hunter’s concluding talk was amazing. It is so helpful to me to hear these powerful men speak for God. I know we have heard his will this weekend. I am so grateful to have living prophets to whom we can look for guidance. What a blessing. We ate dinner in between sessions at the Hibberts. I love them a lot . They treat us so well. Tonight while we took totals, we watched a couple seminary videos from the same tape as “To this end was I born”. They are excellent. Maybe I will be a seminary teacher. This was also a great day of scripture study. Now that I am really digging into the Book of Mormon. There just isn't enough time to study like I want to. I got 2 hours today, but even that wasn't long enough. Sunday, October 2

This has been quite a week, but I am behind in my journal with no time to write this week. Monday was a good P-day. I played the guitar with Elder Howell for which of the day and just wrote letters. It was nice and relaxing. Tuesday we began our Zone Conference tour hitting Lansing/Jackson first. It was one of the most spiritual Zone Conferences I have ever been to. And it sure beat the rest of the week. The big difference of course is that the missionaries are bringing the spirit with them,and this is because of our in depth Book of Mormon study. Our Zone Conferences really weren't very well planned but they were some of the best we’ve had (and I’ve now been to 39 Zone Conferences). Tuesday night, we had dinner with Dai and Li at Chen Jun’s house. They had quite the Chinese spread, and it was a great time. Wednesday, we headed to Grand Rapids for a great day. The Zone Leaders , Elder Backus and Peery are two of our very best missionaries. And they are good friends. Elder Tuckfield is getting sick again so tonight I gave him a blessing assisted by Elder Rowley and Olaveson. Thursday was Midlands day. It was great to be with Christofferson, my good friend, and the other missionaries there. We were shocked to hear that Elder Tuckfield had been admitted to the hospital and would possibly need a pacemaker implanted. That is crazy. We drove up to Traverse City tonight after our Stake Correlation meeting and we spent the night at Elder Warren’s apartment and had a great time. This travel is getting to us, though. Thursday, October 6

I can’t believe it but I have been out for exactly 2 years today. The time has gone by so fast. We had a great Zone Conference here in Traverse City, and then I really enjoyed our District correlation meeting with my hero, President Jon Hoover. He inspires me so much and I love him a lot. We headed home, arriving at 1:30am to find Elder Tuckfield here asleep at the apartment. They found some medicine to help him and so he should be OK without the pacemaker. That is so awesome, and can be attributed to many faith filled prayers and our blessing the other night. Another testimony to me of the power of the Priesthood and of prayer. These Zone Conferences have been really good ones. I have given my departing testimony 4 days in a row now. I really can’t believe that the time has come. Sometimes I feel excited to see my family and be home, but sometimes I feel so hurt with the knowledge that soon my mission will be over. But to say the truth, I want it to hurt. I want to look back with wonderful memories most of all. And I want to stay the same when I return home. I will miss it so much. This work is the greatest. I’m so grateful for my mission. Friday, October 7

It is late Wednesday night, actually Thursday morning, and I can’t sleep. This is just too crazy. My parents will be here with me tomorrow. I really can’t believe it but the time has come. I am doing my laundry right now and I guess I need to make some time to pack tomorrow. But tomorrow will be a crazy day just like these last 2 weeks. We did transfer calls this morning at 6:30. They went pretty smooth and we even got some waffles at the mission home. But we had to make it quick to make it to a lunch appointment with the Hibberts. I love them so much. They are so great and I will miss them. But we have vowed to keep in touch and get together. Right after that, we headed to the airport where we picked up a good group of greenies. They are choice. There were 8 Elders, 2 sisters, and Elder Howard. The rest of the evening was spent with them, of course. We did orientation, ate at Sister Waites, shared our testimonies, and made the assignments on who they would be serving with. It made for a very late night. We didn’t get in until 1:30am. But that is OK. I can’t sleep anyways. I need to accept the fact that my mission is over. The two years are up and it is time to move on. But it is so hard, though. Missionary work is all I have known for 2 whole years. I have really forgotten most everything else, and it doesn't seem to matter to me anymore. This is what I live for and soon it won’t be here for me. I seriously feel more nervous and scared now than when I came out on my mission 2 years ago. The future is uncertain and almost frightening. But I feel stronger than I ever have in my life right now as far as spirituality goes. I know that I will continue to serve and study and pray, etc. I am just sad that my mission is over. Life will never be the same. It has definitely been the greatest experience of my life. I have learned so much, and grown so much, and changed so much. And all the change is for the better. My mission has made me who I am today and will have an everlasting effect on me. I will never forget it, nor the blessings it has given me. I love this work with all my heart. There is nothing better. I know the church is true, Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior. I will serve him faithfully throughout my life. I love this work. Wednesday, October 12