Dear Mom,
The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: How are things going? 1. Pretty well. Did you guys carve your pumpkins? 2. No, but I am using them to cook something tonight. Sorry for not carving them, but the problem was that there really was not enough time. Hows the companion thing going? 3. Very well. How's the new assignment as a problem solver going? 4. I am only just getting started. Can you explain more of what you do? 5. Basically, the idea is that before a project gets sent out, my job would be to look for any possible problems with it. Perfect for me, eh? Is there anything you need? 6. No, not really. Any more birthday suggestions? 7. Maybe just one thing, although it might be difficult to send. If it isn't too much too ask, could you maybe send me a bottle of Glogg? I don't know why, but I have had the strangest craving for it lately.
Anyway, a couple of new mission rules initiated. For example, the big Smith's (the one everyone went to before we had the vans) is now outside our normal boundaries; in other words, we can't go there w/o special permission. Also, family is no longer allowed to visit. The only time they can come is if they are dropping something off. I swear, the rules here are getting more & more strict by the week, all because SOME PEOPLE RUIN IT FOR THE REST OF US! (Sorry about that, it just gets really annoying after awhile).
I love you all so much.
Love,
Elder Huston
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Saturday, October 30, 2010
October 30th letter to mom
Dear Mom,
The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: How are things going in the new apartment especially with the new Elder? 1. Good. Elder Olson is nowhere as scary as he really seems. Heck, Elder Shipton (my old senior companion), because of the facts that he is a big guy and is always scowling, everyone thought he was a serial killer! But, in reality, he is totally harmless Did you get the pumpkins? 2. Yes. Were they all smashed up? 4. No. How are you doing on money? 5. Good. I'll be sending a package soon, any requests? 6. A CD player with speakers(we can't use headphones) and some Mo-Tab CDs. Tell me about your new position. 7. Basically, it is a job that fits my likes and dislikes better. I don't know how to explain it, but it is more of a job that is for a problem-solver...like me!
Well, I gotta get going. There's so much time and so little to do. (Wait, strike that; reverse it.)
Love,
Elder Huston
The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: How are things going in the new apartment especially with the new Elder? 1. Good. Elder Olson is nowhere as scary as he really seems. Heck, Elder Shipton (my old senior companion), because of the facts that he is a big guy and is always scowling, everyone thought he was a serial killer! But, in reality, he is totally harmless Did you get the pumpkins? 2. Yes. Were they all smashed up? 4. No. How are you doing on money? 5. Good. I'll be sending a package soon, any requests? 6. A CD player with speakers(we can't use headphones) and some Mo-Tab CDs. Tell me about your new position. 7. Basically, it is a job that fits my likes and dislikes better. I don't know how to explain it, but it is more of a job that is for a problem-solver...like me!
Well, I gotta get going. There's so much time and so little to do. (Wait, strike that; reverse it.)
Love,
Elder Huston
October 23 letter
Dear Mom,
The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: How are you doing?1. Fine, except for the fact that I found out yesterday that I'm moving. Although it isn't the fact that I'm moving that bums me out; it's who I'm moving in with that's bad. Not only am I a junior companion AGAIN (sometimes I think that I am destined to be a junior companion for the entirety of my mission), but I am going to be the junior companion to an elder I’m not real fond of. Other than that, I'm doing fine. Are you getting cold yet? 2. Yes. Do they have a Krispy Kremes close by? 3. None that I know of. Hey, do you get the ensign or New Era? 4. Yes, I actually get them both. Are you getting enough to eat? 5. Yes. Are your clothes still fitting ok? 6. Yes. Hey, have you sent back your cameras yet and do you have minutes left on your phone or should I add some for your Christmas phone call? I have not sent those cameras back yet and I am out of minutes on my phone. What are some ideas for people to sendyou for birthday/Christmas presents? You can send me some snacks and prayers. Oh, there are a couple of restaurants out here I could use gift cards for, i.e. Subway (Eat Fresh), Sbarro's and Great Steak.
I love you all.
Love,
Elder Huston
The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: How are you doing?1. Fine, except for the fact that I found out yesterday that I'm moving. Although it isn't the fact that I'm moving that bums me out; it's who I'm moving in with that's bad. Not only am I a junior companion AGAIN (sometimes I think that I am destined to be a junior companion for the entirety of my mission), but I am going to be the junior companion to an elder I’m not real fond of. Other than that, I'm doing fine. Are you getting cold yet? 2. Yes. Do they have a Krispy Kremes close by? 3. None that I know of. Hey, do you get the ensign or New Era? 4. Yes, I actually get them both. Are you getting enough to eat? 5. Yes. Are your clothes still fitting ok? 6. Yes. Hey, have you sent back your cameras yet and do you have minutes left on your phone or should I add some for your Christmas phone call? I have not sent those cameras back yet and I am out of minutes on my phone. What are some ideas for people to sendyou for birthday/Christmas presents? You can send me some snacks and prayers. Oh, there are a couple of restaurants out here I could use gift cards for, i.e. Subway (Eat Fresh), Sbarro's and Great Steak.
I love you all.
Love,
Elder Huston
October 9th letter to mom
Dear Mom,
The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: How's my favorite missionary? 1. Pretty good. What did you think of conference? 2. It was awesome! Did you get to sit in the conference center? 3. No; it's a funny story, actually. You see, someone came into my zone asking if anyone wanted to swap him for a Sunday afternoon ticket. It just so happened that I had one, so I traded him for a Saturday afternoon session ticket. Problem was, he had apparently come all the way from Brazil to come here, so, naturally, it was in the Portuguese section, & by the time I realized this, it was too late. Plus, I had a SERIOUSLY BAD MIGRAINE all day Saturday. Still, I was glad that I was able to help someone out. Did you see anyone you knew from home? 3. No. Hey, did you get my package? 4. Yes, I just got it on Thursday. Are you still with the same companion and in the same apartment? 5. Yes. Tell me something great that has happened in the last month. 6. See #3. What's you favorite part of your mission? 7. I feel like I'm doing something that is benefiting others.
Anyway, our apartment just got one of the new guys this month. His name is Elder Thomas. He's pretty cool.
Well, I gotta run. Lots to do today.
Love,
Elder Huston
The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: How's my favorite missionary? 1. Pretty good. What did you think of conference? 2. It was awesome! Did you get to sit in the conference center? 3. No; it's a funny story, actually. You see, someone came into my zone asking if anyone wanted to swap him for a Sunday afternoon ticket. It just so happened that I had one, so I traded him for a Saturday afternoon session ticket. Problem was, he had apparently come all the way from Brazil to come here, so, naturally, it was in the Portuguese section, & by the time I realized this, it was too late. Plus, I had a SERIOUSLY BAD MIGRAINE all day Saturday. Still, I was glad that I was able to help someone out. Did you see anyone you knew from home? 3. No. Hey, did you get my package? 4. Yes, I just got it on Thursday. Are you still with the same companion and in the same apartment? 5. Yes. Tell me something great that has happened in the last month. 6. See #3. What's you favorite part of your mission? 7. I feel like I'm doing something that is benefiting others.
Anyway, our apartment just got one of the new guys this month. His name is Elder Thomas. He's pretty cool.
Well, I gotta run. Lots to do today.
Love,
Elder Huston
September 25th letter
Dear Mom,
The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: How are things going? 1. Good. How’s the companionship? 2. Same as #1. Have you made any great meals lately? 3. Not yet. Do you shop at Smiths? 4. Yes. How's the money situation? 5. Same as #'s 1 & 2. Hey, I talked to Sister Brown and she asked if you had gotten her package. Have you? 6. Not yet. How's the temple attendence going? 7.Pretty good. Any requests for your package? Do you need anything? 8. You know the button-up shirt I would always wear to my Institute classes, the one w/ all the overlapping circles? If you could send that along w/ some more cactus jelly and/or syrup and some snacks, I would GREATLY appreciate it.
I love you all, and I pray as often as I remember that you all get along w/o me to help keep the peace.
Love,
Elder Huston
The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: How are things going? 1. Good. How’s the companionship? 2. Same as #1. Have you made any great meals lately? 3. Not yet. Do you shop at Smiths? 4. Yes. How's the money situation? 5. Same as #'s 1 & 2. Hey, I talked to Sister Brown and she asked if you had gotten her package. Have you? 6. Not yet. How's the temple attendence going? 7.Pretty good. Any requests for your package? Do you need anything? 8. You know the button-up shirt I would always wear to my Institute classes, the one w/ all the overlapping circles? If you could send that along w/ some more cactus jelly and/or syrup and some snacks, I would GREATLY appreciate it.
I love you all, and I pray as often as I remember that you all get along w/o me to help keep the peace.
Love,
Elder Huston
September 18th letter
Dear Mom,
The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: How's my favorite missionary? 1. Pretty good. Zach finally got a job selling security systems. It ought to be interesting, don't you think? 2. ZACH GOT A JOB SELLING SECURITY SYSTEMS How?! How is you companionship going? 3. Pretty well. Have you been able to go to the temple lately? 4. No. Speaking of eating, are you eating well? 5. Yes. Do you need any new cookbooks or treats or anything. 6. If you could send me some more goodies, that would be great.
Oh, by the way, Dad said that he found some more info on John Huston. If he could email that to me or print it out and put it in the package, I wouldn't mind.
I love you all so much, and tell everyone I said hi.
Love,
Elder Huston
The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: How's my favorite missionary? 1. Pretty good. Zach finally got a job selling security systems. It ought to be interesting, don't you think? 2. ZACH GOT A JOB SELLING SECURITY SYSTEMS How?! How is you companionship going? 3. Pretty well. Have you been able to go to the temple lately? 4. No. Speaking of eating, are you eating well? 5. Yes. Do you need any new cookbooks or treats or anything. 6. If you could send me some more goodies, that would be great.
Oh, by the way, Dad said that he found some more info on John Huston. If he could email that to me or print it out and put it in the package, I wouldn't mind.
I love you all so much, and tell everyone I said hi.
Love,
Elder Huston
September 4th letter
Dear Mom,
The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: How is your mission going? 1. Pretty well. Have you had any great experiences this week? 2. Not really. Did Sister Brown send you a package? 3. Yes. Any break throughs on the Huston line? 4. Not yet, but I'm working on it. How come you didn't tell me you saw the Hamelwrights? 5. Honestly, I thought I was hallucinating. How is the new companion going? 6. Fine. Have you found out about the digital camera? 7. No. Can you download pictures to us? 8. I don't know.
Anyway, we just got a bunch of new elders in the mission, which is good, because we have been getting seriously low on those lately.
Well, I gotta run. Lots of time, little to do. Wait, you know what I mean.
Love ya,
Elder Huston
The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: How is your mission going? 1. Pretty well. Have you had any great experiences this week? 2. Not really. Did Sister Brown send you a package? 3. Yes. Any break throughs on the Huston line? 4. Not yet, but I'm working on it. How come you didn't tell me you saw the Hamelwrights? 5. Honestly, I thought I was hallucinating. How is the new companion going? 6. Fine. Have you found out about the digital camera? 7. No. Can you download pictures to us? 8. I don't know.
Anyway, we just got a bunch of new elders in the mission, which is good, because we have been getting seriously low on those lately.
Well, I gotta run. Lots of time, little to do. Wait, you know what I mean.
Love ya,
Elder Huston
Saturday, August 28, 2010
August 28th letter from my favorite missionary
Dear Mom,
The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: How is life in the great state of Utah? 1. Pretty good. Are your suits and shirts holding up and are they still fitting? 2. Yes. Zach wants to know what you thought of the rubberband ball he sent in the last package...that was his favorite pick! 3. I saw it and I thought to myself, "Some things never change. Zach's goofiness is one of them." Hey you mentioned in your last letter that you had a hard time getting up last week. Were you sick? 4. No, I don't think so, I think I was just having an off-day. You said your new companion is "not so motivated" I hope it isn't wearing off on you. I'd hate for you to become lazy, that's just not your style. What's going on? 5. Nothing, really. He is a great guy. I just have to stay strong.
Oh, by the way, I forgot to tell you last week that someone dropped by at work. He told me to tell you that Bob Burr says hi (not sure if that is how his last name is spelled, though). By the way, what happened to you sending me a picture of the whole family? Not that I'm complaining, but I thought it would be nice to have it.
I love you all, and I hope that everything is going as well for you as it is for me.
Love,
Elder Huston
The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: How is life in the great state of Utah? 1. Pretty good. Are your suits and shirts holding up and are they still fitting? 2. Yes. Zach wants to know what you thought of the rubberband ball he sent in the last package...that was his favorite pick! 3. I saw it and I thought to myself, "Some things never change. Zach's goofiness is one of them." Hey you mentioned in your last letter that you had a hard time getting up last week. Were you sick? 4. No, I don't think so, I think I was just having an off-day. You said your new companion is "not so motivated" I hope it isn't wearing off on you. I'd hate for you to become lazy, that's just not your style. What's going on? 5. Nothing, really. He is a great guy. I just have to stay strong.
Oh, by the way, I forgot to tell you last week that someone dropped by at work. He told me to tell you that Bob Burr says hi (not sure if that is how his last name is spelled, though). By the way, what happened to you sending me a picture of the whole family? Not that I'm complaining, but I thought it would be nice to have it.
I love you all, and I hope that everything is going as well for you as it is for me.
Love,
Elder Huston
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Aug 14th
Dear Mom,
The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: What is your new companion like? 1. He is an even bigger sloth than I was before coming out here (I know, I didn't think that was possible either). Other than that, he is pretty cool. Where is he from? 2. He is from Idaho. Tell me about the family history work you are doing.3. I have been trying to further Dad's line (the one that bears the Huston name), and boy, is it hard. Have you gone to the temple lately? 4. Yes, I just went on Thursday and was able to do an endowment session and I put Uncle Donald's name on the prayer roll. Is it starting to cool off up there yet? 5. Not yet. Would you be interested in a digital camera? 6. Sure, I guess. Can you down load the pictures on the computer and send them to us if you did have one? 7. I am not 100% sure I am allowed to do that. I will have to get back to you on that. Hows the cooking going? 8. Very well. Who drives the van?9. Elder Temple.
I am really starting to enjoy being out here (I could do without all this humidity, though). Say hi to everyone for me.
Love,Elder Huston
The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: What is your new companion like? 1. He is an even bigger sloth than I was before coming out here (I know, I didn't think that was possible either). Other than that, he is pretty cool. Where is he from? 2. He is from Idaho. Tell me about the family history work you are doing.3. I have been trying to further Dad's line (the one that bears the Huston name), and boy, is it hard. Have you gone to the temple lately? 4. Yes, I just went on Thursday and was able to do an endowment session and I put Uncle Donald's name on the prayer roll. Is it starting to cool off up there yet? 5. Not yet. Would you be interested in a digital camera? 6. Sure, I guess. Can you down load the pictures on the computer and send them to us if you did have one? 7. I am not 100% sure I am allowed to do that. I will have to get back to you on that. Hows the cooking going? 8. Very well. Who drives the van?9. Elder Temple.
I am really starting to enjoy being out here (I could do without all this humidity, though). Say hi to everyone for me.
Love,Elder Huston
August 7th
Dear Mom,
I am doing fine. Answers to your ?'s, in order, are: How's the new apartment? 1. Great. I am so glad that I am away from that evil little munchkin. What is your new senior companion like? 2. He is... well, let's just say he is a challenge. Tell me the names of all the guys in your apartment now.3. Elder Shipton(my senior companion), Elder Temple, and Elder Swenson(who, incidentally, also had Elder Squire as a trainer).Were you able to use either mine or dad's story? 4. No. But don't worry, I found something. 5 Was it for a district meeting or something? . Yes. Anyway, we get to use vans now for grocery shopping. It is pretty cool. I hate to cut this short, but I have some family research I wanted to do.Tell everyone I said hi.
Love,Elder Huston
I am doing fine. Answers to your ?'s, in order, are: How's the new apartment? 1. Great. I am so glad that I am away from that evil little munchkin. What is your new senior companion like? 2. He is... well, let's just say he is a challenge. Tell me the names of all the guys in your apartment now.3. Elder Shipton(my senior companion), Elder Temple, and Elder Swenson(who, incidentally, also had Elder Squire as a trainer).Were you able to use either mine or dad's story? 4. No. But don't worry, I found something. 5 Was it for a district meeting or something? . Yes. Anyway, we get to use vans now for grocery shopping. It is pretty cool. I hate to cut this short, but I have some family research I wanted to do.Tell everyone I said hi.
Love,Elder Huston
July 31st
Dear Mom,
It is alright about the pioneer day thing, it surprised me too, mostly because Utah is apparently the only state that celebrates it. Go figure! Anyway to answer your ?'s: Did you get my letter last week with the money.1. Yes. How are you doing on allergy medicine? 2. Fine. Is there anything you need/want? 3. I could use some more cactus jelly, and maybe a picture of the whole extended family, if possible. It turns out that I was being moved, and it just happened yesterday. I have a new senior companion. There was one good thing about moving, however. I finally got away from a companion that was difficult to work with. Other than that, nothing noteworthy happened this week. I love you all so much, and wish I could do more for you.
Love,Elder Huston
PS I will have to send home my video camera. The mission pres. just banned them. Something about someone posting video of us on Youtube.
PSS Happy Birthday Bekkah!
It is alright about the pioneer day thing, it surprised me too, mostly because Utah is apparently the only state that celebrates it. Go figure! Anyway to answer your ?'s: Did you get my letter last week with the money.1. Yes. How are you doing on allergy medicine? 2. Fine. Is there anything you need/want? 3. I could use some more cactus jelly, and maybe a picture of the whole extended family, if possible. It turns out that I was being moved, and it just happened yesterday. I have a new senior companion. There was one good thing about moving, however. I finally got away from a companion that was difficult to work with. Other than that, nothing noteworthy happened this week. I love you all so much, and wish I could do more for you.
Love,Elder Huston
PS I will have to send home my video camera. The mission pres. just banned them. Something about someone posting video of us on Youtube.
PSS Happy Birthday Bekkah!
July 23rd
Dear Mom,
I am sorry that I am doing this a day earlier than usual, but the the Library is closed tomorrow for Pioneer Day, so I will not be able to do this tomorrow. Anyway, I have a favor to ask of you. I need a family history story that teaches a principle of the Gospel. I have looked far and wide, but I have not found anything so far. Oh, and it is due at the end of next week. So if you could just scan something and email it to me, that would be great. By the way, it turns out I am moving, AGAIN! Just when I am really starting to get used to everything, I get moved. Typical.Anyway, other than that I am doing pretty well. Hate to cut this short, but there's so much time and so little to do. Wait, strike that, reverse it.
Love,Elder Huston
I am sorry that I am doing this a day earlier than usual, but the the Library is closed tomorrow for Pioneer Day, so I will not be able to do this tomorrow. Anyway, I have a favor to ask of you. I need a family history story that teaches a principle of the Gospel. I have looked far and wide, but I have not found anything so far. Oh, and it is due at the end of next week. So if you could just scan something and email it to me, that would be great. By the way, it turns out I am moving, AGAIN! Just when I am really starting to get used to everything, I get moved. Typical.Anyway, other than that I am doing pretty well. Hate to cut this short, but there's so much time and so little to do. Wait, strike that, reverse it.
Love,Elder Huston
Saturday, July 10, 2010
July 10th letter
Dear Mom,
The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: How are things going in Utah? 1. Pretty good. Are you getting hot? 2. Yes (I miss that dry heat). Do you need me to send you anything besides your $30? 3. No. Are you eating well? 4. Yes. Tell me about your Family Home Evenings. 5. It is called District Meeting, and it is not in any way, shape, or form like FHE, except for the fact that it takes place on Monday night. Do the sister and senior missionaries join you? 6. No. Where do you have them? 7. At the church building. Do the missionaries take turns doing the lessons? 8. Yes. Tell me about the Colemans. Are they pretty cool? 9. Yes. Tell me who's in your apartment now. Is Elder Talbot and Elder Squire still there? 10. Elder Talbot is still my senior companion, but Elder Squire is not in our apartment. I am doing very well, actually. We got some coupons for some restaurants, so I am eating very well.
Well, I still have some things to do. I love you all and miss you like crazy.
Love,
Elder Huston
The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: How are things going in Utah? 1. Pretty good. Are you getting hot? 2. Yes (I miss that dry heat). Do you need me to send you anything besides your $30? 3. No. Are you eating well? 4. Yes. Tell me about your Family Home Evenings. 5. It is called District Meeting, and it is not in any way, shape, or form like FHE, except for the fact that it takes place on Monday night. Do the sister and senior missionaries join you? 6. No. Where do you have them? 7. At the church building. Do the missionaries take turns doing the lessons? 8. Yes. Tell me about the Colemans. Are they pretty cool? 9. Yes. Tell me who's in your apartment now. Is Elder Talbot and Elder Squire still there? 10. Elder Talbot is still my senior companion, but Elder Squire is not in our apartment. I am doing very well, actually. We got some coupons for some restaurants, so I am eating very well.
Well, I still have some things to do. I love you all and miss you like crazy.
Love,
Elder Huston
July 3rd
Dear mom,
I am doing well here. The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: some ward members were helping me get all the laundry done, and one sister found $30 in your black jacket pocket! I can either send it to you in your next box, or deposit it in your account, just let me know.1. Send it in the next box. Speaking of boxes, did you get your last one? 2. Yes. Did you send Grammy a thank you card? 3. Yes. Any awesome meals you've cooked? 5. Yes, just yesterday I cooked a London Broil. It was awesome. Is there anything you need us to send you? 6. No. How are your pants and shoes holding up? 7. Fine. I am sorry that I was unable to email you on Saturday, but the library was closed.
I love you all so much, but there are things that need to be done out here.
Love,
Elder Huston
I am doing well here. The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: some ward members were helping me get all the laundry done, and one sister found $30 in your black jacket pocket! I can either send it to you in your next box, or deposit it in your account, just let me know.1. Send it in the next box. Speaking of boxes, did you get your last one? 2. Yes. Did you send Grammy a thank you card? 3. Yes. Any awesome meals you've cooked? 5. Yes, just yesterday I cooked a London Broil. It was awesome. Is there anything you need us to send you? 6. No. How are your pants and shoes holding up? 7. Fine. I am sorry that I was unable to email you on Saturday, but the library was closed.
I love you all so much, but there are things that need to be done out here.
Love,
Elder Huston
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Yellow denotes mom's questions
Dear Mom,
How is the work going?
Everything is fine here.
Hey, I heard that Elder and Sister Ford were leaving soon [Directors of young missionaries]. They're in Grammy's ward in Kanab, remember. Do you know who will take their place?
It turns out that a couple by the name of the Colemans Are taking Elder & Sister Ford's place.
Is Elder Talbot still your campanion? Any new Elders? Seems like you guys change a lot. Are there specific days for transfers?
There is no specific days for transfers that I know of. There are no new elders.
Any other exciting or faith promoting things happen to you lately?
Nothing new or faith promoting has happened. Oh, except for something I keep forgetting to tell you. A few weeks ago, there was a temple devotional, and you would never believe who gave the talk... ELDER RUSSELL M. NELSON OF THE 12! AND I GOT TO SHAKE HIS HAND
Sorry to cut this short, but I still have a lot to do today.
Love,
Elder Huston
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Dear Mom,
Things are fine here, although I had a bad experience today. Just as we were getting on the Trax, THE GAY PARADE DECIDED TO PASS IN FRONT OF US!
My chicken dinner went very well, actually.
No, I do not cook for everyone very often.
Yes, I am still at the JSMB, even though everyone else in my apartment works in the Family History Library.
I love you all so much, and miss you all terribly.
Love,Elder Huston
Things are fine here, although I had a bad experience today. Just as we were getting on the Trax, THE GAY PARADE DECIDED TO PASS IN FRONT OF US!
My chicken dinner went very well, actually.
No, I do not cook for everyone very often.
Yes, I am still at the JSMB, even though everyone else in my apartment works in the Family History Library.
I love you all so much, and miss you all terribly.
Love,Elder Huston
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Dear Mom,
Things are going pretty well over here. And yes, we have a new elder in our apartment. His name is Elder Mortenson. He is from Florida. I am going to make a chicken dinner for my apartment tomorrow. It just rained yesterday. I am so glad that Jack does not have leukemia. I put his name on the temple prayer roll again. Sending me that jelly and those shirts is about all I could really use now. Oh, and thank you for the treats, especially those fortune cookies.
I love you all so much and I truly hope all will go well.
Love,
Elder Huston
Things are going pretty well over here. And yes, we have a new elder in our apartment. His name is Elder Mortenson. He is from Florida. I am going to make a chicken dinner for my apartment tomorrow. It just rained yesterday. I am so glad that Jack does not have leukemia. I put his name on the temple prayer roll again. Sending me that jelly and those shirts is about all I could really use now. Oh, and thank you for the treats, especially those fortune cookies.
I love you all so much and I truly hope all will go well.
Love,
Elder Huston
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
May 8th 3 months out
Dear Mom,
I am doing just fine, and man, do I have some funny stories to tell you guys! I will be calling you at around 8 AM tomorrow; however, you should know that it will not be from my phone, as I sent it in the package I sent you for Mother's Day. Which reminds me: I AM VERY SORRY THAT YOU WILL NOT GET THE PACKAGE IN TIME! There was a mix-up in the mail, which I will explain tomorrow. By the way, did you get an email from a company called Family Odyssey? If so, I hope you responded with a yes to it. I love you all, and am also very excited to talk to you. Talk to you soon.
Love,
Elder Huston
I am doing just fine, and man, do I have some funny stories to tell you guys! I will be calling you at around 8 AM tomorrow; however, you should know that it will not be from my phone, as I sent it in the package I sent you for Mother's Day. Which reminds me: I AM VERY SORRY THAT YOU WILL NOT GET THE PACKAGE IN TIME! There was a mix-up in the mail, which I will explain tomorrow. By the way, did you get an email from a company called Family Odyssey? If so, I hope you responded with a yes to it. I love you all, and am also very excited to talk to you. Talk to you soon.
Love,
Elder Huston
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Mom's questions are in blue:
Dear Mom,
The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: Did you get a chance to go to the temple?
1. Yes. What is your favorite thing you have cooked so far on your mission?
2. Rocky Road Cookie Pizza. Will you be able to call me on Mother's Day? 3. I hope so. Hey, what happened with the report thing, did you figure out how to get it to the mission president?4. Yes, I figured it out. It's getting pretty darn hot out here, what's it like for you. Is the snow pretty much gone now?5. It snowed JUST LAST WEEK out here, for the love of Pete!!! IN THE SUMMER!!!!
Do not worry, I will be sending the camera to you very soon. I can't promise it will get there in time, but I can promise I will send it, along with my phone, ASAP. Oh yeah, and when you check your email and you see an offer to beta-test a game, SAY YES! I got the people at the NGS (National Genealogical Society) to offer you guys the chance to test a new FAMILY HISTORY VIDEO GAME, FOR FREE! You can thank me by sending my good umbrella up in my next package, along with some snacks.
I love you all so much.
Love,
Elder Huston
Dear Mom,
The answers to your ?'s, in order, are: Did you get a chance to go to the temple?
1. Yes. What is your favorite thing you have cooked so far on your mission?
2. Rocky Road Cookie Pizza. Will you be able to call me on Mother's Day? 3. I hope so. Hey, what happened with the report thing, did you figure out how to get it to the mission president?4. Yes, I figured it out. It's getting pretty darn hot out here, what's it like for you. Is the snow pretty much gone now?5. It snowed JUST LAST WEEK out here, for the love of Pete!!! IN THE SUMMER!!!!
Do not worry, I will be sending the camera to you very soon. I can't promise it will get there in time, but I can promise I will send it, along with my phone, ASAP. Oh yeah, and when you check your email and you see an offer to beta-test a game, SAY YES! I got the people at the NGS (National Genealogical Society) to offer you guys the chance to test a new FAMILY HISTORY VIDEO GAME, FOR FREE! You can thank me by sending my good umbrella up in my next package, along with some snacks.
I love you all so much.
Love,
Elder Huston
Sunday, April 25, 2010
2 months and 3 weeks
Dear Mom,To answer your questions, in order, are:
How's your new place? What's it like? Are you still as close to the temple as you were?
1. It is pretty cool, has a lot more space, and the apartment complex I am in now is right next to the old one.
Hey are you interested in us sending you general conference on CD what about any kind of music? Do you have a CD player in your apartment?
2. No, I am good.
Any other requests for your next package?
3. I would greatly appreciate it if you could send me some more cookbooks.
Tell me the greatest or most faith promoting thing that has happened these last couple weeks.
And 4. I had the craziest experience, the details of which are something I would only feel comfortable telling in person. But the synopsis is that I met a a man who claimed to be the son of an LDS bishop, and man was this guy drunk, and yet I had the impression that he still felt the Spirit. I would have to tell you the details at a later date, as it would take far too long to tell.
I will try my best to get Jack's name in. I am going to go ahead and get the last of the pictures taken, and then I will send the camera along with my phone.I love you all so much, and miss you terribly.
Love,
Elder Huston
How's your new place? What's it like? Are you still as close to the temple as you were?
1. It is pretty cool, has a lot more space, and the apartment complex I am in now is right next to the old one.
Hey are you interested in us sending you general conference on CD what about any kind of music? Do you have a CD player in your apartment?
2. No, I am good.
Any other requests for your next package?
3. I would greatly appreciate it if you could send me some more cookbooks.
Tell me the greatest or most faith promoting thing that has happened these last couple weeks.
And 4. I had the craziest experience, the details of which are something I would only feel comfortable telling in person. But the synopsis is that I met a a man who claimed to be the son of an LDS bishop, and man was this guy drunk, and yet I had the impression that he still felt the Spirit. I would have to tell you the details at a later date, as it would take far too long to tell.
I will try my best to get Jack's name in. I am going to go ahead and get the last of the pictures taken, and then I will send the camera along with my phone.I love you all so much, and miss you terribly.
Love,
Elder Huston
Saturday, April 17, 2010
2 months and 12 days out
Hey Mom!
You'll never believe 2 things: 1. As of May 1, young downtown elders are not allowed to own cell phones! And 2. They are closing down our apartment and giving it to a married couple!!!!! We are moving out on Monday! It royally STINKS! Anyway, I am probably going to have to send my cell phone back to you pretty soon.I love you all so much, and I really miss you guys.
Love,Elder Huston
You'll never believe 2 things: 1. As of May 1, young downtown elders are not allowed to own cell phones! And 2. They are closing down our apartment and giving it to a married couple!!!!! We are moving out on Monday! It royally STINKS! Anyway, I am probably going to have to send my cell phone back to you pretty soon.I love you all so much, and I really miss you guys.
Love,Elder Huston
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Out 2 months and 5 days
This picture was taken right after General Conference. Some friends of ours just happened to see Tres walking across the street. Thousands of people everywhere and they see my missionary! (Thanks Betty and Charlie!)
Here's Tres' latest letter with mom's questions in orange:
I'm guessing you didn't get a chance to check your email last week because of conference.
Hi Mom!You are correct there, the Library was closed for Conference.
Did you get to watch conference?
Did you get the Easter package I sent?
Was it all melted ans scattered everywhere?
Do you get to call home on Mothers Day?
Are your allergies making you crazy yet?
Are you staying in budget?
The answers to all of those is yes. (thanks for eleborating...NOT!)
Are you taking pictures?
I am taking pictures, but only of very special or VERY funny moments (although most of the ones I've taken so far lean more towards the latter).
Any requests for treats or anything in your next package?
Since you asked, do you think you could send me the following: a collared shirt (e.g. polo); a pad of graph paper; a lined paper notebook (for personal use); a zip-up tie/clip-on for quick occasions (like when I am emailing you);some more cactus jelly; some more of those disposable eyeglass wipes; a hoody; and some kind of awesome Arizona-themed tie tack? If you could I would greatly appreciate it. All the elders wanted me to thank you for the Easter baskets, by the way. Thank you for everything.
Love,
Elder Huston
Saturday, March 27, 2010
March 26 letter
Here are your questions in order:
What's you favorite thing to eat at the COB?
I really like the pizza bar on Mondays.
Do you have chores?
Not exactly.
Are there other elders that work with you in Data Analysis and how many things do you analyze each day?
There are no other elders in my district who work in Data Analysis. Come to think about it, only one other elder in my district who even works in the Joseph Smith Memorial Building, and that is the new guy.
Do you ever use your cell phone?
Not very often; I mostly just use it for an alarm clock.
Do you get to go to the visitor center?
I have only been there once, and that was my first week here.
Who's your favorite room mate/companion and why?
Definitely Elder Savage, because you can have a conversation with him on just about anything.
What's the best or most interesting thing that's happened to you this week?
It was actually something that just happened about an hour ago. I was coming back from grocery shopping when Elder Wilkinson (he is my assistant zone leader) and I stopped at Wendy's for a quick lunch. This man there gave us $10 for a meal. How nice is that? Anyway, they moved the young elders around a bit so we have a new companion in our district named Elder Walker. Unfortunately, they moved the young Elder Ford out. By the way, do you think you could send a few other things in my package? If so, I would greatly appreciate it if you could send a bunch of those funny lists (e.g. 50 Ways to Mess with People in a Computer Lab,etc.).
I miss you all.
Love,
Elder Huston
What's you favorite thing to eat at the COB?
I really like the pizza bar on Mondays.
Do you have chores?
Not exactly.
Are there other elders that work with you in Data Analysis and how many things do you analyze each day?
There are no other elders in my district who work in Data Analysis. Come to think about it, only one other elder in my district who even works in the Joseph Smith Memorial Building, and that is the new guy.
Do you ever use your cell phone?
Not very often; I mostly just use it for an alarm clock.
Do you get to go to the visitor center?
I have only been there once, and that was my first week here.
Who's your favorite room mate/companion and why?
Definitely Elder Savage, because you can have a conversation with him on just about anything.
What's the best or most interesting thing that's happened to you this week?
It was actually something that just happened about an hour ago. I was coming back from grocery shopping when Elder Wilkinson (he is my assistant zone leader) and I stopped at Wendy's for a quick lunch. This man there gave us $10 for a meal. How nice is that? Anyway, they moved the young elders around a bit so we have a new companion in our district named Elder Walker. Unfortunately, they moved the young Elder Ford out. By the way, do you think you could send a few other things in my package? If so, I would greatly appreciate it if you could send a bunch of those funny lists (e.g. 50 Ways to Mess with People in a Computer Lab,etc.).
I miss you all.
Love,
Elder Huston
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Dear Mom,
In order, the answers to your questions are:
We sent out your treat box on Monday. When did you get it? Just trying to figure out how long it takes a package to get there.
Friday.
General Conference is in a couple weeks, are you going to the conference center? Let me know so I can watch for you on TV.
Yes, but possibly only for the priesthood session.
Have you tried any good recipes?
Not yet, but I will pretty soon. Sunday, in fact.
Do you cook just for yourself or for the other guys too?
Usually just me.
When you go to the COB from the JSMB do you get to walk underground in the tunnels or do you walk outside?
I walk outside, mainly because even though there is a tunnel, it goes through the underground parking area.
The FDA (data analysis) department is really starting to grow on me. It is growing a little more enjoyable. Oh, for my next package, do you think you could send some short-sleeved church shirts? It is starting to get a little too warm for a full suit.
I love and miss you all terribly, but I am glad I came out here.
Love,
Elder Huston
In order, the answers to your questions are:
We sent out your treat box on Monday. When did you get it? Just trying to figure out how long it takes a package to get there.
Friday.
General Conference is in a couple weeks, are you going to the conference center? Let me know so I can watch for you on TV.
Yes, but possibly only for the priesthood session.
Have you tried any good recipes?
Not yet, but I will pretty soon. Sunday, in fact.
Do you cook just for yourself or for the other guys too?
Usually just me.
When you go to the COB from the JSMB do you get to walk underground in the tunnels or do you walk outside?
I walk outside, mainly because even though there is a tunnel, it goes through the underground parking area.
The FDA (data analysis) department is really starting to grow on me. It is growing a little more enjoyable. Oh, for my next package, do you think you could send some short-sleeved church shirts? It is starting to get a little too warm for a full suit.
I love and miss you all terribly, but I am glad I came out here.
Love,
Elder Huston
Saturday, March 13, 2010
March 13, 2010
Mom's questions are in red.
How do you like your new companion? He is pretty cool, although he has a tendency to go off on very intense tangents, and combine that with the fact that he talks just like someone who grew up in New York, and it is kind of weird.
Do the cookbooks I sent have what you're looking for or should I send you a different one? They have what I need for now. What are the Family Home Evenings like? Pretty much like any other, except we call it "District Meeting". Do you go to the temple every week? I try to. How's the Money situation? I am fine Tell me one good experience you've had so far. This Monday we had a talk given to us about Passover. I learned a lot about Jewish culture, and the talk was given to us by this guy named Daniel Rona. He is a Jew-turned-Mormon. How cool is that?!
In my next package, do you think you could send me some sweets and more cactus jelly? I have had a serious craving for sweets lately.
Say hi to everyone for me. I love you.
Love,
Elder Huston
How do you like your new companion? He is pretty cool, although he has a tendency to go off on very intense tangents, and combine that with the fact that he talks just like someone who grew up in New York, and it is kind of weird.
Do the cookbooks I sent have what you're looking for or should I send you a different one? They have what I need for now. What are the Family Home Evenings like? Pretty much like any other, except we call it "District Meeting". Do you go to the temple every week? I try to. How's the Money situation? I am fine Tell me one good experience you've had so far. This Monday we had a talk given to us about Passover. I learned a lot about Jewish culture, and the talk was given to us by this guy named Daniel Rona. He is a Jew-turned-Mormon. How cool is that?!
In my next package, do you think you could send me some sweets and more cactus jelly? I have had a serious craving for sweets lately.
Say hi to everyone for me. I love you.
Love,
Elder Huston
Saturday, March 6, 2010
week 4
Dear Mom,
If you could print out those maps and picture and send them, that would be great. I can print, but it costs money to do so. Also, if you could send me my dictionary and any Book of Mormon-ish card games you could spare, that would be great. You see, we are allowed to play games as long as: a) they are appropriate and b) they are not too competitive (e.g. Risk). Oh, and also if you could send me a couple of recipes for various marinades, that would be greatly appreciated. I love you.
Love, Elder Huston
If you could print out those maps and picture and send them, that would be great. I can print, but it costs money to do so. Also, if you could send me my dictionary and any Book of Mormon-ish card games you could spare, that would be great. You see, we are allowed to play games as long as: a) they are appropriate and b) they are not too competitive (e.g. Risk). Oh, and also if you could send me a couple of recipes for various marinades, that would be greatly appreciated. I love you.
Love, Elder Huston
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Letter for week 3
Dear Mom,
The answers to your questions, in order, are: (mom's question's are bolded)
Are you staying warm? Do you need a hat or anything?
Mostly. I could use a scarf.
Everything is so different, I am still a little shell-shocked.
- a picture of an ironwood tree;
- a scarf;
- earplugs;
- a pair of non-denim pants for P-days;
- and a street map of
Please and thank you.
Sincerely,
Elder Huston
Saturday, February 20, 2010
February 20, 2010
We added mom’s questions in red so his letter would make sense.
Hey there, Mom!
The answers to your questions, in order, are:
Are you having breakfast and lunch at your apartment, then eating at the COB(Church Office Building) for dinner? Do you need any menu ideas, or treats from home?
1. I have lunch at the COB, and no, I am good for now.
Did you get the other packages we sent? Funny t-shirt huh?! Who is the Elder we didn't meet? Tell us about the Elders in your apartment. Where are they from?
2. Yes; I LOVED the shirt!!!!!!! 3. The "Phantom Elder's" name is Elder Talbot; he's from Colorado Springs. There are 2 other elders you did not get to meet: Elder Ford, and Elder Temple (he's from Indiana). They're pretty cool, but... let's just say these guys make our family look normal by comparison.
Did you get to go to McDonalds with your gift certificates we sent? 4. Not yet.
How is the work going? What is your favorite thing so far—and don’t say the food! 5. Great; finding/researching new names;
Now that you’ve been here two weeks (for your training), are you going to be transferred? I don't think I am leaving this apartment anytime soon. I just got assigned to work at the JSMB, in Data Analysis
Tell everyone I said hi, and I will email you soon.
Sincerely,
Your loving son
McKenzie's Comments: I wished I had counted the number of times mom checked her email today waiting for this, but it was probably 500+!
Hey there, Mom!
The answers to your questions, in order, are:
Are you having breakfast and lunch at your apartment, then eating at the COB(Church Office Building) for dinner? Do you need any menu ideas, or treats from home?
1. I have lunch at the COB, and no, I am good for now.
Did you get the other packages we sent? Funny t-shirt huh?! Who is the Elder we didn't meet? Tell us about the Elders in your apartment. Where are they from?
2. Yes; I LOVED the shirt!!!!!!! 3. The "Phantom Elder's" name is Elder Talbot; he's from Colorado Springs. There are 2 other elders you did not get to meet: Elder Ford, and Elder Temple (he's from Indiana). They're pretty cool, but... let's just say these guys make our family look normal by comparison.
Did you get to go to McDonalds with your gift certificates we sent? 4. Not yet.
How is the work going? What is your favorite thing so far—and don’t say the food! 5. Great; finding/researching new names;
Now that you’ve been here two weeks (for your training), are you going to be transferred? I don't think I am leaving this apartment anytime soon. I just got assigned to work at the JSMB, in Data Analysis
Tell everyone I said hi, and I will email you soon.
Sincerely,
Your loving son
McKenzie's Comments: I wished I had counted the number of times mom checked her email today waiting for this, but it was probably 500+!
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Hi Mom!
I am checking in to tell you about my mission so far. All of the guys in my apartment are really cool (if a little crazy at times). I have found out a lot about our family's genealogy. I have solved a few problems with our records(finding out who people are, etc.). Please ask Dad if I could do the endowment for Daniel Clare Allison, because he reserved it and never did it. You see, this Friday I am going to the temple to do an endowment, and they recommend I do it for a deceased family member. Also ask him to look at the Church family history site, as well as ask him how it is possible for someone to be sealed to their spouse when they have not received their endowment, because a lot of our ancestors seem to have the same problem. I have a few requests for what to send in the next package you send me: my EFY photos, my high school year book, and some prickly pear jelly/syrup, if possible. I love you, and I will try to send an email every week.
Love,
Elder Huston
McKenzie's Comments: Anyone besides me think the EFY photos, a high school year book, and prickly pear jelly are odd requests? Now the pictures and yearbooks may not be so odd, maybe all the other missionaries are showing their pictures to him, but prickly pear jelly? Really?
I am checking in to tell you about my mission so far. All of the guys in my apartment are really cool (if a little crazy at times). I have found out a lot about our family's genealogy. I have solved a few problems with our records(finding out who people are, etc.). Please ask Dad if I could do the endowment for Daniel Clare Allison, because he reserved it and never did it. You see, this Friday I am going to the temple to do an endowment, and they recommend I do it for a deceased family member. Also ask him to look at the Church family history site, as well as ask him how it is possible for someone to be sealed to their spouse when they have not received their endowment, because a lot of our ancestors seem to have the same problem. I have a few requests for what to send in the next package you send me: my EFY photos, my high school year book, and some prickly pear jelly/syrup, if possible. I love you, and I will try to send an email every week.
Love,
Elder Huston
McKenzie's Comments: Anyone besides me think the EFY photos, a high school year book, and prickly pear jelly are odd requests? Now the pictures and yearbooks may not be so odd, maybe all the other missionaries are showing their pictures to him, but prickly pear jelly? Really?
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