Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Weekly Email September 11th, 2013
Hey Mom,
Frick you are so busy! I really hope I never get that busy. Being serious.
Happy Birthday by the way, I sang to you in my head on Sunday, so hopefully you heard it.
Wish I had been there in person, but I love it, out here in the field. Yup. The food sounds like it was really good. I really do miss your cooking. Nothing beats Mom's home cooking.
Foggia is nice. It's a bigger city than Sassari, so there's that. The Vatican was interesting, but cool. Saw the Sistine Chapel, but that was super cool. I really wanted to see the table that shows the line of authority for the Pope's. I didn't but oh well.
I'm basically speaking solo italiano adesso, but I don't mind. It's nice. I'm back in a ward, but I miss my branch. Oh well, whatever. The apartment is so much bigger than Sassari, which is nice. I'm probably going to learn how my Italian is, and how to really love the people.
Pictures will come next week. My camera is charging.
Love you,
NaNa
Hey Dad,
Sorry Mom's a little busy, but I am as well, so short email this time around...again.
I like Foggia so far, it's not to bad. I've only met the people in the city, since we're our own district, so yeah. Anziano Curzola is a great guy and we get along really well. He's been here for a transfer. I'll definitely get better at the Italian, so I'm not too worried about it. Will I be fluent, probably, but we'll see. I'm at a 6-7 in my opinion right now, so yeah.
From what I've seen of the bishop he is very awesome, so we'll see. Haven't talked with him a whole lot, but I plan on it. Most people said I'll love Foggia, so yeah, I believe it.
I'm just serving everyone I can, even the other missionaries. I guess that's what the Lord needs me to do. So, yup, that's what I'm doing.
Okay well, that's it for me, talk to you next week.
Nathan,
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Weekly Letter and Transfer, September 4th, 2013
Anziano Eads is no longer in Sassari, Sardegna. He is now moving to serve in Foggia on the mainland. Here is a map of his new location.
Here is his combined and short email since he is traveling:
Hey you guys!
Sorry, I don't really have time to do two seperate emails, since it's transfer week. So, I got transfered to Foggia, on the eastern end of the mainland. I'm waiting to go there, so I'm chilling in Rome right now. We've got a plan to go and see the Vatican, so I'm going to be a little short on the email this week. I'll have pictures from my visit to you then.
My new companion will be Anziano Curtzla (or something like that), and he's a native, so I'll be speaking Italian close to full time. It'll be a great chance for my language ability to grow. Am I sad that I'm out of Sassari, and Sardegna, yes, but I'll go where the Lord needs me to go.
As a missionary, I'm good. Tired, tanner, and definitely skinnier, but I'm good. Still loving this experience and doing all I can to learn and grow from it. It's hard, but still good.
Sorry you people have been very tired, just try you're best to get some sleep. That's about all I can say regarding that.
I'm trying to be as nice as I can and keep this email long, but I really don't have anything else to say. Sorry.
Well, love you guys, talk to you more next week.
NaNa for mom, and Nathan for Dad
Here is the wiki link for Foggia. Of course many other missionaries have served there and of course they have pictures. Anziano Nathan Turner at his Blog located at this link shows some of the pictures he took while serving in Foggia. We are excited that Anziano Eads is serving with a native Italian though I am not thrilled that Foggia is the wheat capital of southern Italy since I suffer severely from Celiac Disease. We know Nathan will continue to grow and develop as both a missionary and as the wonderful human being and son of God that he is.
Here is his combined and short email since he is traveling:
Hey you guys!
Sorry, I don't really have time to do two seperate emails, since it's transfer week. So, I got transfered to Foggia, on the eastern end of the mainland. I'm waiting to go there, so I'm chilling in Rome right now. We've got a plan to go and see the Vatican, so I'm going to be a little short on the email this week. I'll have pictures from my visit to you then.
My new companion will be Anziano Curtzla (or something like that), and he's a native, so I'll be speaking Italian close to full time. It'll be a great chance for my language ability to grow. Am I sad that I'm out of Sassari, and Sardegna, yes, but I'll go where the Lord needs me to go.
As a missionary, I'm good. Tired, tanner, and definitely skinnier, but I'm good. Still loving this experience and doing all I can to learn and grow from it. It's hard, but still good.
Sorry you people have been very tired, just try you're best to get some sleep. That's about all I can say regarding that.
I'm trying to be as nice as I can and keep this email long, but I really don't have anything else to say. Sorry.
Well, love you guys, talk to you more next week.
NaNa for mom, and Nathan for Dad
Here is the wiki link for Foggia. Of course many other missionaries have served there and of course they have pictures. Anziano Nathan Turner at his Blog located at this link shows some of the pictures he took while serving in Foggia. We are excited that Anziano Eads is serving with a native Italian though I am not thrilled that Foggia is the wheat capital of southern Italy since I suffer severely from Celiac Disease. We know Nathan will continue to grow and develop as both a missionary and as the wonderful human being and son of God that he is.
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Anziano Eads Letter August 28th 2013, Pictures Again!
Some pictures of Anziano Eads (Nathan) street meeting with people. Here are the letters for this week which are back to his happy, positive self.
Dearest Mum,
Yes, it did have top secret birthday information in it. I know exactly what's going to happen, and what he's going to be giving you as a gift. I love being this far away from home, so I don't get pressure to tell you what it is! MWAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!
Sorry about the dinner and cake. I would totally make you something, but it might mold in the time it gets to you back in Utah. Also, I can basically only make pasta. Sorry. Here's some advice for when I get home: Don't make pasta when I'm around. I'll be sick of it by the end of the mission.
HA! You as primary choirster. Oh boy that'd be cool. You'd do a good job, though. But, yeah, you love to play the piano and you are amazing at it. I really do miss hearing you play sometimes. Maybe when I get home, you can lure me to sleep with a piano song. PLEASE!
I'm glad you love the pictures, I got a few more from me coming this week. Thank you for the weight lost complement. I have tried to get myself in shape, and I think it's working. I just really want this to become a habit, so I can keep it up when I get home. And since I realized I can live off of 12£, it should be pretty easy when I get home.
Yup, I'm playing the piano again. Everyone loved my own personal arrangement of Come Thou Font of Every Blessing, and I worked hard on that. See? You still are influencing me! I really am trying to get better at the piano. It's going to take a lot of work (and I mean a lot), but I think I can get good at it again.
One thing that made me laugh hard: We got drenched by a rain storm this Monday. Hoo boy! We were soaked to the bone! That was hilarious.
Something that's the same: Religion plays a huge role in everything.
Nothing is hard to teach, it's just getting the words, and then helping them understand why these things are important. Restoration's the easiest, but it just depends on the person. Everyone's different.
Music Names: Zelda's Lullaby, Midna's Lament, Dearly Beloved. That's really all I got. I would appreciate it if you could email them to me, so I can print them off here, as well. That just makes it easier.
Well, you have a good week as well. Work hard, poke Dad for me, and tell Kendra that she needs to get better at emailing me.
NaNa
Hey Dad,
I'm glad you're loving the new school! It really is a good thing when change happens. Look at me! I'm experiencing a great change, and it's been so good for me.
About the blog comment: Whatever. I don't mind knowing my father inspired my Mission Mom. That's just something that makes me a little proud. My Dad is still influencing people to get to me. You really do care!
Going to the _______ again eh? Well that's cool. Should be fun! Tell Mom I'll be singing happy birthday to her on the 8th! As for transfers, well, I'm probably going to be going else where. I've been in Sassari for three transfers, for 4 plus months. I'm old, and it's time to get out of this place. I love it, but I think I've grown complacent. I need a change.
Well, now you just need to encounter a bear, and I will consider you're animal experiences while doing your astronomy observing complete. However, don't do anything stupid if you do encounter one. I don't want to open my email and see pictures of you mauled (although, granted, that'd be kinda cool).
Yup, I'm down to 218 lbs. It's feels awesome! I feel like I'm floating on air, and I have so much more energy. Thank you less food!
Let's see, what do I want to share with you this week...hmm. Well, the only thing I can really say about this last week is that I've hit the scriptures really hard in study session. I'm getting a lot of good stuff from it, and it's nice to know that the Spirit is guiding me. I get some good stuff for our investigators, and for myself as well.
It's been a good experience thus far. It's gone by a lot faster, like people have said, but I'll be the first to admit, when I think about it, it feels like it's been about 5 months. But that ìs the key, I don't really think about it, because that's when I get trunky, and start getting down. The Savior doesn't want me trunky or down so stay positive, right!
So, yup, that's what I got this week. Sorry it's nothing miracolous(sic), but it's good. so that's it for me.
Love you too,
Nathan
Friday, August 23, 2013
Pictures of Nathan at his Zone Conference August 22nd, 2013
Here are some pictures of Anziano Nathan Eads from the Sardegna Zone Confernce. He is looking tired but good. His good old positive spirit came right back.
Nathan with his companion.
Anziano Eads and his companion Role Playing above and below. Above President Waddoups observes by them.
Nathan in background as they get their new Teaching English Program that they do.
Anziano Eads with his BIG mouth ready to do one of his favorite things: EAT GOOD FOOD!
Anziano Eads (Nathan) role playing with another missionary; Yes, he has lost a good deal of weight and his clothes are looking baggy!
Anziano Eads doing one thing he loves, singing.
Aziano Eads (Nathan) singing again.
Anziano Eads singing (with a ring, he loves having a ring on).
Anziano Eads singing and I have to say in this picture, he rather reminds me of my Dad when he was younger.
Anziano Eads singing more!
WOW!!!! Anziano Eads (Nathan) made his Mom faint when she saw this picture. He is actually playing the piano again. He did take for 8 years so he should remember how. His Mission President, Presidente Waddoups listens in. I hope he played well!
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
August 21st, 2013 Hard Times
Anziano Eads' emails to his mother and father this week.
To Mom:
Good job on the yard work! I know that those pesky weeds are scared, and are saying their final prayers with you on the hunt. However, I would like to remind you that I would love for you to not have a bad back for when I get home. Just because I don't want to break it even more when I hug you for ten minutes.
I am also glad that Primary went rather well. When Dad can hear the kids in the hall, you know they are singing loud. Sorry I'm ripping one on Dad. I haven't been able to do it in a few months, so....yeah.
MORE PIANO STUDENTS!!!! See, I knew it would happen. Everyone is seeing the progression of those who take from you and want that same progression for their kids. Soon, it'll be like Clinton again. Huge amounts of piano lessons!
HEY! I miss that beagle and his annoying ways! I swear, every time I hear a dog bark, I just want to say: "Coda, mommy's home!"
IN answer to the headaches thing: They've gotten worse, and I get them a little too often for my liking. Luckily I still have ibuprofen, so that helps, and I always have a little carbonation on hand.
If I could do anything in Italy a second time, I don't know. I just started. Please ask me this question at the end of my mission please! I'll probably say I'd do it all again!
I have learned to stay optimistic about the work. Granted, it's hard, but that doesn't mean I should get down about it. I gotta stay happy!
Bo. I just read Joseph Smith--History and taught the Restoration. Does that count? We actual did make some progress with the investigator I talked to Dad about. Some stuff Dad shared came in useful, can't remember exactly what, but yup! Progress has been made!
Yup, got my sister's email. All is good. You are not boring this week. Blame technology. It's what I do.
Much love,
NaNa
To Dad:
Hi.
It goes. I can't believe it's nearly September, but whatever. The heat isn't the issue, the actual temperature is similar to Utah, but it's that STUPID. HUMIDITY. That's what kills me. No, no yellowing yet in the armpits, but I'm expecting that next summer or so....if the weather doesn't kill me...or the mosiquitos (sic).
Things are hard right now in the field. Let's just say that when an entire country takes the month of August off for vacation, things can get a little hard for a missionary.
I'll let you know about Zone Conference next week. Ours is tomorrow, however, thank you for letting me know what may or may not be happening at this one.
My journal is fine. Still got plenty of room. I'm not worried about it. I should be able to buy another one, if not, then it's back to writing.
Monthly allowance is 193 euros (about $258 U.S. dollars they live on). I can typically make it through the month, unless we have to do a lot of travel, like this transfer, in which case I am broke, as I am currently. I'm grateful for reimebursements though, since I can get a ton of money when I get done.
I like the working out in the morning, personal study, and the wind down time at the end of the day. Good times to just think about how things are going, and what not and plan to adjust. Now I know why you always spent time in your office reading the scriptures and in prayer and reflection.
Haven't really had a funny moment this week, sorry to say. Two things I learned from the Spirit: 1. Trust that things will start looking up. 2. I'm awesome.
Have fun in school and all that.
Sucks that you people get rain. I miss the rain. It's so dry here. I woke up this morning, and what luck! We had a rain storm! It was so nice.
Glad that you did good on that lesson in HIgh Priests, and that your sisters liked the Mormon Message. Those tend to do some great things for getting people's interest in the Church up.
Yes, I remember Mom's brownies, and yes I miss them. Not really a big peach guy, so good for you.
Also, yes, I eat mozarella balls all the time. You just can't get mozz in the States, because of health codes and all that. So unhealthy, but sooooooooooo gooooooooooooooooooooood!
Think that's it. Sorry this email is not up to my normal standard. I'm tired.
Love you still the same,
Nathan, the tired one
To Mom:
OH HECK YES!!!!!!!!! I'M DONE BEING TIRED!!!!! SEATTLE BABY!!!!!!
Yes, that's my team! I'm smelling a year of wins for Seattle Seahawks! Let's just hope they CREAM the Niners this year. I want to wipe Dad's smirk off his face. Okay, granted, he doesn't, but still. I want him to lose!To Dad:
Hi.
It goes. I can't believe it's nearly September, but whatever. The heat isn't the issue, the actual temperature is similar to Utah, but it's that STUPID. HUMIDITY. That's what kills me. No, no yellowing yet in the armpits, but I'm expecting that next summer or so....if the weather doesn't kill me...or the mosiquitos (sic).
Things are hard right now in the field. Let's just say that when an entire country takes the month of August off for vacation, things can get a little hard for a missionary.
I'll let you know about Zone Conference next week. Ours is tomorrow, however, thank you for letting me know what may or may not be happening at this one.
My journal is fine. Still got plenty of room. I'm not worried about it. I should be able to buy another one, if not, then it's back to writing.
Monthly allowance is 193 euros (about $258 U.S. dollars they live on). I can typically make it through the month, unless we have to do a lot of travel, like this transfer, in which case I am broke, as I am currently. I'm grateful for reimebursements though, since I can get a ton of money when I get done.
I like the working out in the morning, personal study, and the wind down time at the end of the day. Good times to just think about how things are going, and what not and plan to adjust. Now I know why you always spent time in your office reading the scriptures and in prayer and reflection.
Haven't really had a funny moment this week, sorry to say. Two things I learned from the Spirit: 1. Trust that things will start looking up. 2. I'm awesome.
Have fun in school and all that.
Sucks that you people get rain. I miss the rain. It's so dry here. I woke up this morning, and what luck! We had a rain storm! It was so nice.
Glad that you did good on that lesson in HIgh Priests, and that your sisters liked the Mormon Message. Those tend to do some great things for getting people's interest in the Church up.
Yes, I remember Mom's brownies, and yes I miss them. Not really a big peach guy, so good for you.
Also, yes, I eat mozarella balls all the time. You just can't get mozz in the States, because of health codes and all that. So unhealthy, but sooooooooooo gooooooooooooooooooooood!
Think that's it. Sorry this email is not up to my normal standard. I'm tired.
Love you still the same,
Nathan, the tired one
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
Email from August 14th, 2013
We'll start with Pictures!!!!! They went to a museum last Wednesday, their personal day. It is the day they get to get their shopping done, errands done, clean their apartment and then they are instructed to go and see things culturally. They went to this museum and to an underground city. No pictures were allowed at the underground city though.
Dear Mum,
Firstly, I want to tell you that you can call me NaNa for the rest of my life, if you want. I didn't tell him in his email, but please let Dad know that he can, in the words of Mr. Ball: "Stick it up his kilt" about calling me that. You can call me what you want. (Lynda told him to tease him that I said that since Nathan is all grown up she can't call him NaNa which is her nickname/term of endearment for him. She wanted a reaction and got one!).
Chef Luigi sounds fun! Made that in honor of me being in Italy, right? That's cool! Good Luck! You'll do fine, I know you will. You're my mother after all. Sad to see the Rigby's go, but it's probably for the best for them. Well, tell them I say good luck!
Perner's are moving huh? Never saw that coming. Oh well, tell them I say good luck as well. Tell the Brown's I say hi, and welcome to the neighborhood! And let them know that Dad will be willing to help them with shoveling in the winter. (Hard to believe it's nearly here!)
YAY! New doors! Can't wait to see them when I get home! It'll be fun!
Marcus is back at Texas Roadhouse huh? Well, hope it all works out for him. I need to email him this week, thanks for reminding me of that. Awesome!
Really? I left all my music on the piano. Oh well, don't worry about it. It's no issue. Also, I just searched the names on google (Nathan requested we scan some of his sheet music so we'll keep looking).
I am able to play piano because we have meetings in the Church, and the Church has a piano, and so I play it. My Zone Leader has cleared the music, that's how I'm able to play it. Yes, I do practice hymns...every once in a while.
I love you Mom. I'll try to ask you simple questions. I promise (Nathan had given us questions that a Jehovah Witness investigator had asked them and Lynda said they were too complicated for her, she needs simple questions . . . she really left it to me to answer).
Alma 32. Inspired him to have faith (see Dad's email).
Anziano Birberg is from Sweden. He quotes Bug's Life really well, (the caterpillar), and is cool. I like him.
I like to cook pasta, and experimenting with how I can change it up. I have an awesome recipe Anziano Robinson gave me: Pasta Calabrese. I don't have the measurements, but I can get it good. Eyeballing things is a key to cooking here. I really wish I could just cook up a good American style meal: Country style breaded chicken with white gravy, and corn with biscuits. I miss it.
We shop at Lidl. It's just a food store. They really don't have anything like Wal-Mart, or Target or Smith's here. We kinda have to shop around for things. Depends on what we need. We tend to just hit LiDL, and we're done.
Church is the same in that we head to a church building, we learn, teach, and talk, and enjoy time with members. It's different in that Sacrament is last in the bloc, and it's in Italian. Also, less technology is used. Totally different. Also, everyone jokes around with each other.
Sweet! Nice job on the comp hours! Can't wait to bring you guys here. I don't know what we'll do when you come, but it'll be awesome none the less.
Well, that's it. I'll get those pictures to you!
Love,
NaNa
To Dad
Hey,
Thanks for asking, my last week went well thank you. Glad to hear that everything is going good, and you've had some good observing. Very nice. Congratulations on the up-turn with the teaching! I'm sure you are up for the challenges, since you are always looking forward to the unexpected right?
Yay for service! That's my old man! Sorry that you hurt, but blessings! (Am I right?). Don't worry, the Lord will make up for the pain (Yep, that and ibuprofen.)
School sucks, doesn't it. Oh well, don't worry about it too much. I'm sure you're going to get all A's again. Just don't try to hard, you may get higher up than you think. I have that road to travel when I get home but that's not for a long time.
Answers:
1. (Questions: What scripture has had an influence on you this week?) Hoo boy! Let's see, I read recently in 1 Nephi 19:9 and cross referenced to Isaiah 50:5-6, about how some will judge Christ to be a thing of naught. That struck me as truth, and I'll let you think about why. It just made me remember to keep the Savior in my life always, and remember that it is because of what He did for me that I am who I am today.
2. (How goes it with the investigators?) It's been hard to meet with investigators. Everyone goes on vacation is August, and so, it's been hard to meet with them. However, we had a lesson yesterday on the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and I shared Alma 32 with this investigator. I think it mad a good impact on him. He was definitely thinking about it.
3. (List two traits you admire in your companion please.) He's diligence, and his optimism.
4. (What is your favorite lesson to teach and why?) I love the Restoration. Enough said. Okay no, I love the Restoration because it just makes so much sense of things. So many people here admit that "Yeah, the Catholic Church is corrupt." And here we are presenting this message about the true church being restored. I love it, gets me hyped spiritually. The only thing that tops that is sharing our view of Jesus Christ as our Savior. The Catholics view of Christ is much different than ours and its nice to let them know that He truly paid the price for our sins, and wants us to have joy in this life. He has born our pains, our sufferings, our afflictions, our loss, and our sins. He stands ready to comfort us when we need to be comforted, and He is ready to apply the atonement to our lives as we repent so we can be clean from our sins.
5. (What service projects have you done?) Service has been hard to come by, but we love helping out at the Church and stuff. It's good, and it makes sure that we build relationships with members.
6. (How often do you do service projects?) Weekly...or so...depends on what we can find.
7. (How is your testimony of the Savior helping you in your daily life as a missionary?) I don't know. I just know that every time I focus on the Savior, things get easier. Maybe it's the fact that I know that He suffered so much for me and others, that I can alway turn to Him for strength and help. Dunno. I just can keep going even when I'm exhausted. He lifts me up, renews my body and allows me to do the work.
8. (What toothpaste do they have in Italy that you use?) THEY HAVE COLGATE!!!
9. (How are your shoes holding up?) Shoes are still fine. Have not even run down a little bit. Which is saying something because we walk....a lot. And yes, the insoles help.
10. (In what ways have you seen Heavenly Father answer your prayers this week?) He's helped me to not get discouraged. 2. He's given us teaching opportunities, and helped us to find people to teach.
(Nathan asked us some questions a Jehovah Witness investigator(?) asked which were, perhaps not sincere. I provided answers since Nathan requested some insight.) Thanks for the answers. I really appreciate them. Honestly, I don't think he is sincere, but I dunno. We're still writing our response letter, but we are using Preach my Gospel, and Bible, and BOM, nothing else. "Cast not your pearls to the swines." He's not ready for D&C or POGP.
(I like to share scriptures with Nathan and from the D&C I felt prompted to have Nathan read D&C 79:1-3 and to place his name in the place of Jared Carter, and then D&C 80:1-5 and to place his name in the place of Stephen Burnett and his companion's name for Eden Smith.) Thanks Dad, I will read that scripture! Love ya
Nathan
Lynda hates snakes but this was done via welding and thus some might find it interesting.
Here is a spider done in iron. I think it looks like one from The Hobbit . . .
A close up and a fear of spiders?
Okay, we know Anziano Eads (Nathan) is missing Coda, our Beagle . . . and perhaps he's missing him too much?
Tickle, Tickle the Spider (Nathan use to actually tickle Coda our Beagle this way) I will point out that though he is poising with permission he never touched the actual items, remaining respectful.
Here are some others that he took that I think are cool culturally.
An Ancient Sword.
A view of the Basilica di San Gavino and it's grounds. Learn more at this link.
Front view of the Basilica di San Gavino
Ancient Roman Fort, a model of it.
From the Museum; Nathan did not offer a description but liked it since he took the picture.
Sassari in Medieval Times with surrounding wall.
Top view of Sassari as a Medieval City. Look how tightly compact the buildings were. No wonder disease spread rapidly.
Okay, now to the emails:
To Mom:
Firstly, I want to tell you that you can call me NaNa for the rest of my life, if you want. I didn't tell him in his email, but please let Dad know that he can, in the words of Mr. Ball: "Stick it up his kilt" about calling me that. You can call me what you want. (Lynda told him to tease him that I said that since Nathan is all grown up she can't call him NaNa which is her nickname/term of endearment for him. She wanted a reaction and got one!).
Chef Luigi sounds fun! Made that in honor of me being in Italy, right? That's cool! Good Luck! You'll do fine, I know you will. You're my mother after all. Sad to see the Rigby's go, but it's probably for the best for them. Well, tell them I say good luck!
Perner's are moving huh? Never saw that coming. Oh well, tell them I say good luck as well. Tell the Brown's I say hi, and welcome to the neighborhood! And let them know that Dad will be willing to help them with shoveling in the winter. (Hard to believe it's nearly here!)
YAY! New doors! Can't wait to see them when I get home! It'll be fun!
Marcus is back at Texas Roadhouse huh? Well, hope it all works out for him. I need to email him this week, thanks for reminding me of that. Awesome!
Really? I left all my music on the piano. Oh well, don't worry about it. It's no issue. Also, I just searched the names on google (Nathan requested we scan some of his sheet music so we'll keep looking).
I am able to play piano because we have meetings in the Church, and the Church has a piano, and so I play it. My Zone Leader has cleared the music, that's how I'm able to play it. Yes, I do practice hymns...every once in a while.
I love you Mom. I'll try to ask you simple questions. I promise (Nathan had given us questions that a Jehovah Witness investigator had asked them and Lynda said they were too complicated for her, she needs simple questions . . . she really left it to me to answer).
Alma 32. Inspired him to have faith (see Dad's email).
Anziano Birberg is from Sweden. He quotes Bug's Life really well, (the caterpillar), and is cool. I like him.
I like to cook pasta, and experimenting with how I can change it up. I have an awesome recipe Anziano Robinson gave me: Pasta Calabrese. I don't have the measurements, but I can get it good. Eyeballing things is a key to cooking here. I really wish I could just cook up a good American style meal: Country style breaded chicken with white gravy, and corn with biscuits. I miss it.
We shop at Lidl. It's just a food store. They really don't have anything like Wal-Mart, or Target or Smith's here. We kinda have to shop around for things. Depends on what we need. We tend to just hit LiDL, and we're done.
Church is the same in that we head to a church building, we learn, teach, and talk, and enjoy time with members. It's different in that Sacrament is last in the bloc, and it's in Italian. Also, less technology is used. Totally different. Also, everyone jokes around with each other.
Sweet! Nice job on the comp hours! Can't wait to bring you guys here. I don't know what we'll do when you come, but it'll be awesome none the less.
Well, that's it. I'll get those pictures to you!
Love,
NaNa
To Dad
Hey,
Thanks for asking, my last week went well thank you. Glad to hear that everything is going good, and you've had some good observing. Very nice. Congratulations on the up-turn with the teaching! I'm sure you are up for the challenges, since you are always looking forward to the unexpected right?
Yay for service! That's my old man! Sorry that you hurt, but blessings! (Am I right?). Don't worry, the Lord will make up for the pain (Yep, that and ibuprofen.)
School sucks, doesn't it. Oh well, don't worry about it too much. I'm sure you're going to get all A's again. Just don't try to hard, you may get higher up than you think. I have that road to travel when I get home but that's not for a long time.
Answers:
1. (Questions: What scripture has had an influence on you this week?) Hoo boy! Let's see, I read recently in 1 Nephi 19:9 and cross referenced to Isaiah 50:5-6, about how some will judge Christ to be a thing of naught. That struck me as truth, and I'll let you think about why. It just made me remember to keep the Savior in my life always, and remember that it is because of what He did for me that I am who I am today.
2. (How goes it with the investigators?) It's been hard to meet with investigators. Everyone goes on vacation is August, and so, it's been hard to meet with them. However, we had a lesson yesterday on the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and I shared Alma 32 with this investigator. I think it mad a good impact on him. He was definitely thinking about it.
3. (List two traits you admire in your companion please.) He's diligence, and his optimism.
4. (What is your favorite lesson to teach and why?) I love the Restoration. Enough said. Okay no, I love the Restoration because it just makes so much sense of things. So many people here admit that "Yeah, the Catholic Church is corrupt." And here we are presenting this message about the true church being restored. I love it, gets me hyped spiritually. The only thing that tops that is sharing our view of Jesus Christ as our Savior. The Catholics view of Christ is much different than ours and its nice to let them know that He truly paid the price for our sins, and wants us to have joy in this life. He has born our pains, our sufferings, our afflictions, our loss, and our sins. He stands ready to comfort us when we need to be comforted, and He is ready to apply the atonement to our lives as we repent so we can be clean from our sins.
5. (What service projects have you done?) Service has been hard to come by, but we love helping out at the Church and stuff. It's good, and it makes sure that we build relationships with members.
6. (How often do you do service projects?) Weekly...or so...depends on what we can find.
7. (How is your testimony of the Savior helping you in your daily life as a missionary?) I don't know. I just know that every time I focus on the Savior, things get easier. Maybe it's the fact that I know that He suffered so much for me and others, that I can alway turn to Him for strength and help. Dunno. I just can keep going even when I'm exhausted. He lifts me up, renews my body and allows me to do the work.
8. (What toothpaste do they have in Italy that you use?) THEY HAVE COLGATE!!!
9. (How are your shoes holding up?) Shoes are still fine. Have not even run down a little bit. Which is saying something because we walk....a lot. And yes, the insoles help.
10. (In what ways have you seen Heavenly Father answer your prayers this week?) He's helped me to not get discouraged. 2. He's given us teaching opportunities, and helped us to find people to teach.
(Nathan asked us some questions a Jehovah Witness investigator(?) asked which were, perhaps not sincere. I provided answers since Nathan requested some insight.) Thanks for the answers. I really appreciate them. Honestly, I don't think he is sincere, but I dunno. We're still writing our response letter, but we are using Preach my Gospel, and Bible, and BOM, nothing else. "Cast not your pearls to the swines." He's not ready for D&C or POGP.
(I like to share scriptures with Nathan and from the D&C I felt prompted to have Nathan read D&C 79:1-3 and to place his name in the place of Jared Carter, and then D&C 80:1-5 and to place his name in the place of Stephen Burnett and his companion's name for Eden Smith.) Thanks Dad, I will read that scripture! Love ya
Nathan
Wednesday, August 7, 2013
Wednesday August 7th 2013 Weekly Email (Full of Good Stuff)
Lynda and I have gotten to where we ask very specific questions to Anziano Eads and he is doing a good job in answering them. Here are this week's emails, one to Mom, one to Dad, and a combined one.
Mom's email first:
Dear Mum,
Two years ago yesterday? I was wondering why I was thinking about him yesterday. That explains it. Yeah, I'm pretty sure he follows me around, keep the bees away from me. I miss him (speaking of Lynda's father, Nathan's grandfather).
One thing I see everyday that I don't see in America: TRAINS!!!!!!! Seriously, I have seen a lot of trains since I got here. They are just infiinte. It's so different.
ONe thing an investigator has asked me: How can I give up everything and come here for two years. Easy response. Told him I knew it was true. I also has some questions from our JW investigator that are funny. I'll share that with you and Dad in a joint email.
Yes, I've given a talk in the branch. Two talks actually. The first was on the importance of prophets, and the second was sustaining our leaders. It was in Italian, and everyone complemented me on how good of a job it was. One even said it was perfect.
Yes, the apartment has the bidet. No, I don't use it, we have toilet paper for a reason, am I right? If not, then whatever.
Things are going good with two other Anziani in the apartment. It's tight, not a lot of room, but it's going fine. We get along really well, so no fights. But we'll see how it goes. I'm not worried about it.
I went down to Cagliri, the southern most city on the Island. Worked with Anziano Loertcher (I butchered his name), whose only been out for 9 weeks now, so I got to be his "trainer" for a bit. It was fun. I liked it.
Those were some really good questions Mom. That's what I like to hear!
You made 300 dollars on your old garage sale? Good job! You'll probably do much better at the next one, if I know you. And I think I do....not sure...do I?
Well, tell everyone I say hi back. Congrats on the French doors. I know you love them.
You have a great week as well. Work hard, love everyone, and poke dad for me!
NaNa
Email to Dad
Hey.
Good job on the A's. That's the Dad I know. Well, enjoy the break, and enjoy teaching again. I'm sure you'll do fine.
Sorry observing was bad, but glad you helped someone out though. Tell Mat I'm sorry about his vans, and that he needs to keep his chin up (my friend Mat had his 6 week old van ruined by a deer when we were driving home).
The investigators are a long story, so I'll tell that near the end. Yes, I teach. Anziano Woolsey and I trade off on the points, but one of us always guides the lessons, and we take turns on that as well. We find people to teach by finding...or they come up to us. Happens more than you think.
How has my testimony grown on my mission? I've really come to rely on the Savior a lot more. When I get really down, I always pull out a picture of Jesus I got in the MTC, of him in the Garden of Gethsemane, and I am reminded that he suffered so much more than I do. Best example I have.
We actually do laundry when we need it, we're not limited to Pday anymore. So, laundry gets down pretty reguarly. Please refer to Mom's email for the Capi Conference.
No, I have not run into the "Mickey Mouse Club". At least not yet. I study in English, since we have been told to do so by our Area Seventy, but for language study, I'm in the Italian scriptures, reading out loud.
We buy our groceries separate. Since we are not communist, nor is the law of consecretion going to work until Christ comes, we go every man for himself with food.
Three greatest things I've learned on my mission: 1. I don't have to be a person I'm not. 2. The Atonement can work miracles with people. 3. There are countless people watching out for me, both here and on the other side of the veil.
Okay investigators.
Romanian couple is doing good, so far as we know. Haven't been able to meet with them recently, going to try.
ONe dropped us.
OUr agnostic has had signs from God, and he seems to be willing to listen to us now. He wants to hear all our beliefs, so we're going to teach him all the lessons, and do what he asks. We feel it's a good thing to do.
Well, Dad since you miss my hugs, refer to the email I'll send you and Mom.
Love,
Nathan.
The Combined Email:
So, I have to keep this short. Anyways, here's a spiritual experience I've had this week.
So, I've been reading the Book of Mormon a lot lately, and I've realized something. We, the members, really take it for granted. I went into this reading with a blank mind, and I'm really getting stuff out of it, almost like an investigator. My scriptures are all marked up and I have notes in them. It's beautiful.
Well, that's it for this week.
Next week,
Your son, Nathan
Mom's email first:
Dear Mum,
Two years ago yesterday? I was wondering why I was thinking about him yesterday. That explains it. Yeah, I'm pretty sure he follows me around, keep the bees away from me. I miss him (speaking of Lynda's father, Nathan's grandfather).
One thing I see everyday that I don't see in America: TRAINS!!!!!!! Seriously, I have seen a lot of trains since I got here. They are just infiinte. It's so different.
ONe thing an investigator has asked me: How can I give up everything and come here for two years. Easy response. Told him I knew it was true. I also has some questions from our JW investigator that are funny. I'll share that with you and Dad in a joint email.
Yes, I've given a talk in the branch. Two talks actually. The first was on the importance of prophets, and the second was sustaining our leaders. It was in Italian, and everyone complemented me on how good of a job it was. One even said it was perfect.
Yes, the apartment has the bidet. No, I don't use it, we have toilet paper for a reason, am I right? If not, then whatever.
Things are going good with two other Anziani in the apartment. It's tight, not a lot of room, but it's going fine. We get along really well, so no fights. But we'll see how it goes. I'm not worried about it.
I went down to Cagliri, the southern most city on the Island. Worked with Anziano Loertcher (I butchered his name), whose only been out for 9 weeks now, so I got to be his "trainer" for a bit. It was fun. I liked it.
Those were some really good questions Mom. That's what I like to hear!
You made 300 dollars on your old garage sale? Good job! You'll probably do much better at the next one, if I know you. And I think I do....not sure...do I?
Well, tell everyone I say hi back. Congrats on the French doors. I know you love them.
You have a great week as well. Work hard, love everyone, and poke dad for me!
NaNa
Email to Dad
Hey.
Good job on the A's. That's the Dad I know. Well, enjoy the break, and enjoy teaching again. I'm sure you'll do fine.
Sorry observing was bad, but glad you helped someone out though. Tell Mat I'm sorry about his vans, and that he needs to keep his chin up (my friend Mat had his 6 week old van ruined by a deer when we were driving home).
The investigators are a long story, so I'll tell that near the end. Yes, I teach. Anziano Woolsey and I trade off on the points, but one of us always guides the lessons, and we take turns on that as well. We find people to teach by finding...or they come up to us. Happens more than you think.
How has my testimony grown on my mission? I've really come to rely on the Savior a lot more. When I get really down, I always pull out a picture of Jesus I got in the MTC, of him in the Garden of Gethsemane, and I am reminded that he suffered so much more than I do. Best example I have.
We actually do laundry when we need it, we're not limited to Pday anymore. So, laundry gets down pretty reguarly. Please refer to Mom's email for the Capi Conference.
No, I have not run into the "Mickey Mouse Club". At least not yet. I study in English, since we have been told to do so by our Area Seventy, but for language study, I'm in the Italian scriptures, reading out loud.
We buy our groceries separate. Since we are not communist, nor is the law of consecretion going to work until Christ comes, we go every man for himself with food.
Three greatest things I've learned on my mission: 1. I don't have to be a person I'm not. 2. The Atonement can work miracles with people. 3. There are countless people watching out for me, both here and on the other side of the veil.
Okay investigators.
Romanian couple is doing good, so far as we know. Haven't been able to meet with them recently, going to try.
ONe dropped us.
OUr agnostic has had signs from God, and he seems to be willing to listen to us now. He wants to hear all our beliefs, so we're going to teach him all the lessons, and do what he asks. We feel it's a good thing to do.
Well, Dad since you miss my hugs, refer to the email I'll send you and Mom.
Love,
Nathan.
The Combined Email:
So, I have to keep this short. Anyways, here's a spiritual experience I've had this week.
So, I've been reading the Book of Mormon a lot lately, and I've realized something. We, the members, really take it for granted. I went into this reading with a blank mind, and I'm really getting stuff out of it, almost like an investigator. My scriptures are all marked up and I have notes in them. It's beautiful.
Well, that's it for this week.
Next week,
Your son, Nathan
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)