September 24, 2012

Hi Dallin!

 

How was your week?  Any new investigators?  Is this transfer week?  Your last letter sounded like you may have hit a small plateau in your work.  That's ok.  It's normal and will come in waves.

 

We had a great week.  Beau came home for a visit and we have had the usual influx of Matt, Chase and Caleb in the house and hottub.  Beau will be here until the middle of October and then he will go back until Christmas. I think he really likes it and he has grown up.

 

We had Grandma and Grandpa Tall here for the weekend as well. Dad was ordained and we then we went to the temple.  It was a great experience.  Angie says that Dad now needs to have a pair of tan slacks with a blue blazer- the High Priest uniform:)  Kerry Kimball was also ordained a high priest.  We are going to Nathan's wedding this weekend.  You will really like his wife, Katie.

 

I hope you have a great week.  I'm a little pushed for time today.  I love you and we pray for your work everyday.

 

Love,  Mom

Hey!

I am so excited about Dad! I love all this good news. 

This week was...well we are past the plateau and continuing to ascend! This ward is getting so excited to do missioanry work. We got invited to teach the Young Women on Wednesday, and teach the 5th sunday third hour next Sunday. Members are consistently offering rides and meals. They also seem to be changing their outlook on missionary work as we have followed the counsel in PMG and taught members the investigator lessons. Our ward mission leader said that ward council now focuses strongly on missionary work and how the ward can double their efforts. Elder Musick and I have been doing everything we can to gain the trust of the members and show them our sincere desire to help their friends come unto Christ. Sunday at church is the most important time of our week. We follow up, set up lots of appointments, and follow up on commitments in the little spaces of time we have. Elder Musick seems to be learning quickly what it takes to love, serve, keep track of names etc, and encourage the members of a busy family ward. He is a great teacher and lets me know when he has a prompting, and I love to follow it and experience the benefits. 

We found 2 new investigators this week. We ended up spending alot of time around Patricia's non member family. Her niece (inlaw) has repeatedly turned us down, but we have developed a great friendship with her and her kids. Recently she had been humbled as her marriage is really struggling. She accepted the invitation to take the discussions and is committed to come to church next Sunday! We also have begun teaching a member's husband, who has never had religion in his life. He has met with the missionaries before and has attended church several times, but with faith I know he will accept the Gospel. Please pray for them (Kim and Earl).

Its not transfer week, and training takes two transfers(3 months) so I will be staying. 

Thanks for the love and prayers!

Elder Tall 

September 24, 2012 Ang & Dal

Hey Dal!

You've almost been out 8 months already?!?!?! Nuts. And so awesome. Some days go by slow, but over all you will be a man and home makin babies in no time. So much to look forward to. So on this end-we are still trying to find a place to move to due to the carbon monoxide that is the Middle-Eastern food smells oozing through my walls, but to no avail, nothing has worked out yet. I'm officially 17 ish weeks along and had a few complications, but I think we are good to go and the Doc says the baby is doing fine so that was good news. My next appointment is tomorrow, so we'll see then. Cade is funny as ever. He calls Beau 'Dal-nin' on skype. As usual I want to keep this short and sweet on my boring end so I can leave you time to give us a juicy fun fact filled one. Attaching a few other funny pics I found. LOVE YOU SO SO SOSO SO MUCH. 

Ang

PS-It's my birthday in a couple days. Keep a mental note of that would ya.

Ang, B & C.

Ang! 

This week was great! Things are picking up, and I am trying hard to keep up! Our entire ward are families like you and Chelsea, and the fathers are all doctor residents and U of I. We have had so many spiritual appointments with them. I love this ward so much. This one little kid (bout 4 years old) snuck up behind me and jumped on my back and he whispers in my ear "Ewda Tall...you fascinate me" haha. So random. 

I also forgot to tell you this story. So one of Elder Musick's first doors he knocked and talked was so funny. This guy answers talking in some Bosnian or something. He is like 6'2 and looks like hes been up for three days. Hes super skinny and wearing nothing but some way too tight white Euro boxers with racing stripes on em...completely see through.

 I just look over trying to contain myself and just lost it as Elder Musick stood there trying to do a door approach. The guy just stood there straight faced like he had no idea why I was laughing. What a good trainer I am ha. 

Love you

September 17, 2012

Hi Dallin,

 

I can't believe the weeks are flying by so fast!  It's already time to write again :) I received some insurance notifications that you went the the doctor.  What was that about?  It looks like they gave you 3 meds. 

 Let me know please.

 

How is Elder Musick doing?  Are you drumming up some investigators? (ha-no pun intended :)

 Is it getting a little cooler there?

We hope you are continuing to be motivated and happy. 

 

We had a great, impromtu, stake conference yesterday.  Elder Steven E. Snow was there and the new mission president and his wife.  There were several investigators with our missionaries and the spirit was really strong.  It's always nice to see people we haven't seen in a long time.  Tim Light got his mission call to Korea.  Wow!  Same mission as John. 

 

This is the poem Elder Snow read in Stake Conference:  So cute!

 

Cowboy Poetry

Jake, the rancher, went one day to fix a distant fence.
The wind was cold and gusty and the clouds rolled gray and dense.

As he pounded the last staples in and gathered tools to go,
The temperature had fallen, the wind and snow began to blow.

When he finally reached his pickup, he felt a heavy heart.
From the sound of that ignition, he knew it wouldn't start.

So Jake did what most of us would do if we had been there.
He humbly bowed his balding head and sent aloft a prayer.

As he turned the key for the last time, he softly cursed his luck.
They found him three days later, frozen stiff in that old truck.

Now Jake had been around in life and done his share of roaming.
But when he saw Heaven, he was shocked -- it looked just like Wyoming!

Of all the saints in Heaven, his favorite was St. Peter.
(Now, this line ain't needed but it helps with rhyme and meter)

So they set and talked a minute or two, or maybe it was three.
Nobody was keeping' score -- in Heaven time is free.

"I've always heard," Jake said to Pete, "that God will answer prayer,
But one time I asked for help, well, he just plain wasn't there."

"Does God answer prayers of some, and ignore the prayers of others?
That don't seem exactly square -- I know all men are brothers."

"Or does he randomly reply, without good rhyme or reason?
Maybe, it's the time of day, the weather or the season."

"Now I ain't trying to act smart, it's just the way I feel.
And I was wondering', could you tell me -- what the heck's the deal?!"

Peter listened very patiently and when Jake was done,
There were smiles of recognition, and he said, "So, you're the one!!"

"That day your truck, it wouldn't start, and you sent your prayer a flying,
You gave us all a real bad time, with hundreds of us trying."

"A thousand angels rushed, to check the status of your file,
But you know, Jake, we hadn't heard from you in quite a long while."

"And though all prayers are answered, and God ain't got no quota,
He didn't recognize your voice, and started a truck in North Dakota ."

Ha! 

 

Dad probably told you that he has been called as the assistant to the High Priest Group President.  That means grandpa will come up and ordain him a high priest.  Miracles are real and some take a long time and continue.  As I watch his change occur, the power of prayer and the spirit are so real.  The power of the scriptures to 'calm our troubled hearts' is SO REAL.  This morning we were in our usual dither trying to get to work.  I stopped, grabbed my scriptures, knelt down and made sure I put the Lord first.  Dad stopped and knelt by me, I read to him and we said our prayers.  There was an immediate calm to our morning!  It's real and true.

 

I hope you have a great P-day.  Keep your room and car clean!  We love you so much.

 

Mom

Hey!

That was an awesome poem! I need to find a way to use it. I think president Jergensen would like it. 

It is getting a bit cooler here. It still hits 90 and humid, but it is way better than 100. 

Thanks for the little story about you and Dad. I loved it. It reminds me of Alma 13:28-29. This is after Alma is teaching about The melchezidek priesthood, and especially the office of a high preist. He explains the sacredness of the Melchezidek priesthood, and then finishes off by explaining the only way to maintain the power of your priesthood, which is through love...Its interesting, I was reading Alma 13 today in my studies. 

Elder Musick is doing really well. He has some of the same focus issues as me, and I try to lead by example to help him overcome those. It is really through the power of the spirit, and Jesus Christ that weaknesses like ADD or anything else can become strengths. He came into the area when we were in finding mode, so he is having to be patient with the work, and love it when we seemingly fail. There is no failure if your work was consecrated. 

So as of two days ago I have been out 7 months. Weird. Yesterday we had dinner with the Murdocks. They have four little kids. We taught them about prophets, and the restoration. First we had them all pick a random verse in the scriptures. I said "when I say go, everybody read your verse out loud." Of course it was a jumbled mess. We explained that after Jesus and the apostles passed there were no more prophets, and it sounded alot like when we read. It was hard to understand what God's commandments were. Then we had one of the kids be the holy ghost, and  Brother Murdock be the prophet. The kid whispered a verse into his ear, and Brother murdock read it aloud. We had Sister murdock tell everyone what she learned, and she heard it all just right! We explained that God called another Prophet so that we could hear everything from God clearly, and we helped one of the kids recite Joseph Smith's account of the First Vision. The spirit was really strong, and it was so fun. 

Oh and the doctor's visits ha. Well first someone in the ward thought I had shingles, and didnt take a look at it. So he ordered me some stuff. It was extremely painful and I biked on it alot for a few days and all this, and I couldn't sleep at night. So I felt like I should figure it out. Went to the clinic and I had some kind of cyst and infection. I got some anti biotics and now it is fine. It was rough. I was blessed. A lot of people have to have surgery done, but the antibiotics took care of it. 

Pray for our members to share the gospel!

I love you 

September 10, 2012

Hi Dallin!

 

Can you pleeeeaaaasssse send a good pic of you for the plaque!!?? Thank you (said in the cheech and chong voice).

 

 

How was your week?  This will be short letter because I am running so late this morning. 

 

Lots of good things happening.  Dad and I are beginning the tear out/clean up of a small house we bought.  It's a small house in the north side of Wal-mart in the Heights.  I'll send you a pic so that you can wish you could be involved in removing pet stained, stinky carpet and mouse droppings everywhere:)

 

We have been praying for missionary opportunities and it seems we are getting questions and discussions from lots of people.  How are your investigators doing?  All we are required to do is plant the seed and testify and the spirit will take over.  Dad and I read a good article in the Ensign this morning about a man whose wife was not a member and that he would push her to join the church but that always ended in an argument.  He stopped pressing and other members began befriending her and she eventually WANTED the gospel.  The spririt leaves when we push too hard. 

 

I don't know if you remember Sister Cunningham in our ward.  She looks like Edna Mo from the Incredibles :)  Her husband just joined the church after many sets of missionaries being fed in their home.  She is so happy.  He gave the sweetest testimony in Sacrament meeting.

 

Well, all is well here.  We are looking forward to seeing Beau next week.  He has been really working hard and Uncle John has been very good to him.  He has made a lot of money and is looking forward to getting into college as soon as he can.

 

There are more protein bars on the way.  Is there anything else you need?  When are transfers?

 

We love you so much and are so thankful for your great attitude.

 

Mom

Hey!

                     I haven't been able to take a picture because my camera is dead and I can't find the charger. Sorry. It will turn up. You could crop one of the ones I have sent :)

              This week was very humbling. We had alot of appointments fall through, a lady that seemed solid dropped us, and we are struggling to find new investigators. We did receive a few referrals that we plan on contacting asap. Things are still looking up though because I know the member are going to start having good missionary opportunities. We are getting there! 

                 I have had several opportunities to serve though. Patricia's sister, Mary Rose, has a niece who is getting very interested in the church because of service. The other day we went and taught her son how to mow a lawn, and she said she would be coming to church this coming Sunday, and that we could come visit the family after they get settled into the new house. Her husband could get in the way though, so we will see.

               We are still being persistent with Mary Rose too. Please pray the the spirit will guide us to those who are prepared. And that we will have the faith to find them.

                                                         Thanks and I love you 

                                                                       Elder Tall

September 3, 2012

Hi Dallin,

I need a good pic of you to put on your plaque at the Stake Center.  The pics you've sent either have a shadow across your face or you are with someone else....or whatever.  Take a nice pic and download it so I can get you up on the board.

It's Labor Day and I have the day off.  Yea!!  I get to labor at our house :)

How has your week been?  Have you had anymore investigators? How is Elder Musick liking the mission?  I love the idea about you going into RS to teach the women how to more easily share the gospel.  I'm going to share that idea with Sis. Bennion, our RS president.  Dad and I were eating Sunday dinner and wondering where you might be having dinner that day.  :)

We've had a good week.  Busy as usual with work and church.  Vance is feeling better, thankfully.  That was a scary situation. Saw Caleb at chuch yesterday.  He was having his mission interview with the Bishop and then he'll have his Stake President interview thereafter.  He's very excited now to get his papers in.  Connor Reid got is call to Arkansas- same mission as Eli Webster.  It's exciting to watch these boys move forward, no matter what the rate of speed.

It's interesting how much the dialogue has increased about the church due to Mitt Romney's run for the presidency.  They had a piece on the National news about temples and garments.  Elder Ballard and Elder Cook were asked some good questions and they answered them really well.  The other day, Dad had a sub-contractor riding in the car with us and dad keeps a Book of Mormon on the center console.  The guy was blabbing on about his ex-wife and then stopped mid sentence and said, "are you guys mormons?"  We had the nicest discussion where I explained the need for a restoration. He said, "thank you for telling me that.  That is the best explanation I have ever heard and it makes sense."  It was great.

Well, I better get this sent off.  We are going to make an attempt at cleaning the garage.  

It's like laundry.  It never goes away.  

Love you! 

Mom

                                                                             Hey!

What an awesome story about your missionary moment there in the car! On Sunday we ate with the relief society president, her husband, and two little guys. She made some incredible rolls, and we set a date with her to invite her friend to come to dinner with the missionaries.

          So something amazing is happening in our ward. The missionary fire is lighting. We had members testifying about their experiences in investigator lessons that we had them along for. They testified in all three meetings of church. People are getting excited! That makes me excited. We are so close to having a miracle take place in first ward (the miracle being a domino effect in member referrals: mucho people coming unto Christ). 

So we have two new investigators that are pretty solid. One is a nice old lady that is progressing just like Patricia did. We even mow her lawn and everything. Her name is Carol, and we found her when I was out with that mini missionary a while ago. We also took a lady named Melanie on a church tour. 

She liked it and wants us to help her quit smoking. I am so excited to see what happens this transfer.

 I don't feel like I have enough time, but I know the Lord will help us accomplish his will. 

       We found a new apartment in North Liberty, which is the heart of our area. When we move we will save tons of time and miles when we have the car. I don't know if I told you, but our area is a car share area again, which          means no car every other week. It is more interesting that way.

                Elder Musick is progressing really well. He is still nervous about alot of things, but it will get better.     He is a stud. 

All is well. Please pray for our members to keep getting excited, and for Carol and Melanie!

I love you

                                                                           Elder Tall

September 3, 2012

Hi Dallin,

Mom and I were just talking about you and I thought I better write you. 

Things are very busy here for me work wise.  It’s crazy!!  I have BIG projects and lots of them. 

I bulldozed and made a road and then laid gravel.  Then I reshaped a couple of earthen dams to this guys place.  Then I came back and put in a 2200 gallon cistern, connected it to his house and installed a pressure pump and pressure tank for his house water.  We also put in a septic system.

I have 5-6 other jobs that are just as involved but more towards house lifting and new concrete driveways etc.

How’s the work??  Have you heard anything about Elder Davey?  I read your last letter.  I love that you get to really get to know the people in Iowa City.

What did you do for Sunday dinner yesterday?  Mom and I were sitting on the deck eating our lunch and we commented on what we thought you might be doing for lunch.

I’m attaching a couple of photos for you just for fun. 

The first is a basement wall that is caving in and I am going to jack the house and replace the wall.

Second:   This is a grizzly a few miles from where mom and I camped.  He was just outside of Cooke City.

Third and fourth:     This is me, Jayden and this French exchange student Antoine (Antwaan) (stupid French names) out in front of U-Haul where I have been doing quite a bit of commercial work.  I was grading out this area next to the sidewalk and BAM! The skid steer got a jolt from something from H***!  I started pushing tugging and digging.  What I thought was just a little concrete post that was cut off and abandoned turned out to be a monster!  I slayed it and there it lies in the trailer.  I actually got it out using the forks only.

I’ll send more pics next time.

We pray for you all the time.  I hope you feel our faith.  I love you very much. 

Everything is how it should be.

Have fun on your p-day.

Love Dad

Hey Dad!

            It is so cool to hear about all these projects you have going! The Lord is blessing our family so much. Ha the kid comes all the way from France to be hired on classic Tall jobs in Montana. Thats too awesome. 

I'm glad the skiddy survived that post. That thing was huge!

          On Sunday we had some lemon pepper chicken, homemade rolls and jam, and salad at the Relief society President's house. She is excited to start sharing the gospel. The families in the ward are all here for residency programs at the university, so the sisters are all full time moms and amazing cooks, like my sisters. 

           They are busy families, but always willing to help us if we need it. Once in a while I get to work with my hands out here, and today I get to help cut down a tree at our ward mission leader's house. Great things are happening in our area, and the Lord is really changing me. I am discovering how to turn my will over to his, and life is not only better, it is easier. 

          It is all about praying for charity, and acting on it in every little decision. 

Love you Dad Elder Tall

September 3, 2012 Ang & Dal

Dal-babe-

I am so sorry I missed again last week, I know you were just sobbing-devastated 

at missing a tidbit or 50 from me. How's it going?

 I can't imagine the gusto and dedication it takes to do what you do everyday, in and out. That's hard and we're proud...

Beau just skyped me so I talked to him for an hour or so and now it's Monday morning and

 I'm hoping I haven't missed you for the day! 

So I'm sending this in case and I'll finish in another one...\

Part2: Dal-

Beau sounded good, he is so funny, he has to go to McD's for internet and so he sits in his vehicle on a tablet at night lookin like a total parking lot creeper. hahahaha!  These last few weeks have been good, except for Taco Bell switching their #2 Grilled Stuft burrito meal to some nasty wanna be version called the XXL burrito. Sick. Mom, me Chels and Steph are NOT HAPPY. I am not as morning sick anymore which is AMAZING because that was miserable. Hard to be grateful to be pregnant when everything makes you wanna barf. For months. Not days. But it's getting better and I'll attach a picture of the little nugget. It's from his/her backside because the doc was looking at the baby's spine, SO EXCITING!!!!!! It was amazing to see the little heart beat and face. Pretty cool. I don't know how anyone who has had a baby in them doesn't believe there is a God. It is unbelievable what the body does. Sending a few pics, hopefully I'm not too late. In lieu of a deep thought I found some HILARIOUSSSSSSS pictures:):):) I even saved them as "dallinjoke1, dallinjoke2..." LOVE TO THE MOON AND BACK!!!!! 

Ang, B &C

ANG!!!!

And again Im embarrassed in the Library because of the uncontrollable volume of my laughing. Plus its like a wood cubicle thing that acts as an amplifier. Oh man that mario one bout killed me. 

Are you going to wait to find out the gender or are you going to be nice and tell me asap? Hey when you have that baby Ill be like a year and a half out. Im workin on seven months. crazy.

It is nice to be in 1st ward because I am watching these little families, and it is kinda like watching your little families. I love all the little kids in the ward. We aren't really allowed to play with them or anything so it can be hard sometimes. I'm affectionate.

The work is going great! I love you
Kiss Cade for me

August 27, 2012 Chels & Dal

Dal! 
So this week has been crazy in a bad and good way. I told you last week that Vance was going to get treated for some bumps on his skin and so thats what we did. Last monday we had him treated by a dermatologist and she applied the saliva from beetles(very very poisonous) which causes a little blister to draw out the head of the bumps so that they will fall off and disappear. Come to find out, you are only supposed to treat no more than 10 at a time and the doctor treated about 50 on Vance's abdomen and about 10 on his arms. He began to pee blood and have really high fevers. We ended up in the ER and the Vance was hospitalized for 5 days because the poison had put blisters on his kidneys and bladder and left his skin with 2nd degree chemical burns. The burns were bad enough that we were almost transferred to the burn unit up at primary children's in SLC. Can you say malpractice?!?

We are very very upset to say the least. This shouldn't have happened. He is now in an outpatient situation where we go in and he gets sedated to change his bandages because they are so painful still and too intense for me to change the dressings. The burns look way way better now than they did. Luckily, children grow skin very quickly so he has healed much quicker than everyone thought he would. We are very grateful for good nurses and to be able to stay in a very nice hospital. Most countries don't get room service when they are staying in a hospital. We are grateful for his quick recovery and that he is so happy still. He is skeptical of all nurses and doctors now and screams when we even go near the burns. I feel so bad for him. 

I got a very small glimpse of how the Heavenly Father felt when he saw his son suffering and couldn't do anything about it. I wanted to take all the pain away from Vance and switch positions with him. I have shed so many tears and my love has increase immensely for the Savior and for Heavenly Father. 

Anyway, we have some decisions to make about legal things. We are not sure what to do quite yet. We are just trying to focus on Vance and getting him healed. 

So is this transfer week? Did you get a new missionary to train? I am excited for you to be able to have a greenie who is excited to be there (hopefully) and that you can get back on the positive side of missionary work. I am grateful for you and your letters each week. I know how hard it can be to pull the weight of another, I did it all through high school, but I am sure you are better for  doing it. I am sure you have learned to be a lot more patient and understanding through your experiences. 

Well, I know you don't have a ton of time. We love you. Keep working hard! I have put some of the pictures of Vance in this email... they are kind of graphic. Love you:) 

Ches,

I feel so bad for my little buddy! I wish I could hug him and tell him I love him. 

Tell him for me. Those pictures were bad! I hope he heals up, I know he's a trooper. 

             I loved your perspective about Heavenly Father and all. I felt the spirit really strong when reading that.So this week went great. On thursday I did begin training a new missionary. He is so excited to be here, and honestly it is such a refreshing change. The Lord has really blessed me with the opportunity to train. 

                    I was really nervous about it at first. In training a fresh missionary you can honestly make or break their mission, and heavily influence their life, so it is a big responsibility. 

                     Something I have learned though: Whom the Lord calls, he qualifies for his work. 

             This means if we have complete trust in him, He will make up the difference when we fall short, and that is always through the atonement of Christ. So when I work hard to prepare to train, even if it is super inadequate, the Lord teaches him what he needs to know through the spirit. 

               I have a real testimony of that, and I am learning at a much deeper level how to give my will to God's.       I love you Chels. 

August 27, 2012

Good Morning, Dallin!

 

How has your week been? How is you new comp?  I know it was a difficult week sending Elder Davey home.  I hope he does ok.  We have been praying for him and his family.  It should be refreshing to have a new companion who is new to the mission and excited to be there.

 

We have had a busy week.  I sent you some pics of Vance.  Chelsea may tell you his story.  He was treated topically with a poison called beetlejuice (truly extracted from the Blister Beetle-).  The nurse practitioner treated way too many of his "bumps."  He became toxic and started urinating blood and 1/2 of his torso was blistered.  He was in so much pain.  He was hospitalized for 5 days.  He went home yesterday and is doing fine.  He had to be sedated each time they changed his dressings on the wounds.  His skin condition was highly contagious as well. It was pretty traumatic. Thank goodness for prayer and priesthood.

 

Dad and I had a busy week as usual.  We are preparing to buy another flip house.  It's right next to Wal-Mart.  It's a doozy.  Dad will work his magic and we'll hopefully flip it within a couple months.  He has more work than he knows what to do with.  He really needs to expand.

 

I bought the granola bars and will send another package tomorrow.  Is there anything else you may need?  Are you out of subway gift cards?:)  Are you in the same apartment? 

  

We are thinking and praying for you daily.  Your example to others is invaluable. I got a letter from Mason.  He sounds great and still excited!  We will have him to dinner when he gets home.

 

I hear there are some exciting things stewing for Caleb as well.  He may be getting his papers in soon.  What a journey! 

 

Well, I better get this sent-

 

We love you so much-Keep working hard!

 

Mom

Hey Mom,

            Ha first of all, last week I had no idea you sent that package of bars already. Its funny how well you know me. I love protein bars. Actually out here I do take vitamins and protein bars because of the way we eat. Anyway, thanks so much for the cards and food.

              I am so glad to hear all is well with Vance. Poor little guy. Tell him I love him. 

             This week was so great. I cant believe how much this mission is helping me. Honestly, though it was hard, I would never trade my time with Elder Davey. Before transfer meeting I had to go to a new trainers meeting. It was humbling. President Jergensen told us how big of an impact we make on these new missionaries. He talked about how elder Hollands mission meant everything to him, and his trainer especially. Can you imagine being Elder Hollands mission trainer? Transfer meeting was exciting! We have 18 new missionaries, which is a huge increase in numbers. I know the Lord sent us that many to accomplish our mission goal of 400. Finally President called my area and announced the new missionary. 

             My "boy" as they call them in the mission is named Elder Musick. He and I are going to be great friends. He is fired up and wants to run before he walks, which reminds me of myself when I first came out. It helps me be a more effective missionary as a trainer because I know that he watches my every move, way I teach, and communicate with members. He is from Enomclaw Washington. Love the guy. We are working hard with the members. 

              Before Elder Davey left we were invited by the Relief Society to teach them about how they could more easily share the gospel. It was such an awesome experience! We taught them (this is a brief sketch) 

1.Pray for Charity

 2. Love the Gospel, not just live it 

3. Commit before the opportunity arises to bare testimony and invite 

4. never give up! 

              So we expounded on that and then had them practice with each other. Since the activity, the ward has been fired up. Every time I see members they discuss the activity. The Lord is really helping me understand member work, and its getting fun! Plus we have a new ward mission leader, who is a stud.

                I love you. Pray for solid investigators through our members please! We are on the edge!

                                                              Elder Tall

August 19, 2012

Hi Dallin,

Well, I know this has been another tough week mentally for you.  Did you get the transfer calls?  Are you still in the same area like Pres Jergensen said you would be?  If so, are you going to train another greenie and are you still considered a greenie?  When do you turn into a brownie? haha :) 

Do you like news from home?  Dillon doesn't like to hear news from his parents.  In fact, he's quite hostile about it.  If it bothers you, let me know.  

Sister Judy Lent died this morning and Kayci's mother passed away this week, too.  Judy has been battling several cancers for the past year.  It's so comforting to have the gospel perspective.  To know that the pains of this world are relieved for those who suffer so much.  It's Chase's 16th bday, Angie and Ashley made it home from Utah.  As they went thru Barstow, it was 120 degrees outside.  Ugly!! Kara had her baby-little boy Jackson.

Dad and I gave talks at Eagle Cliff this morning.  Good experience. Dad shared his testimony with two landscapers he works with.  One was impressed and is married to an inactive LDS girl.  We went to the temple on Friday and I couldn't help smiling at the memories of being there with you.  We are taking dinner to Harold and Carol (across the street). Carol is still fighting cancer.  These are the ways we are doing our missionary work. The show and tell style :)  Show service then tell testimony.  I love my primary calling.  The kids are so funny and I'm working with Christa (Bennion) Pearson.  Chloes' sister.  She is so great.

 

It's still warm here but the summer is winding down.  It's my first year that I don't have to get someone ready for school :)   But, it seems that dad and I are busier than ever. 

 

I know you are short on time. So, just let us know how you are doing.  We are praying for you and also trying to do our missionary part here. I wonder if Elder Decker from Iowa is here in Montana yet?

 

We love you!!

 

Mom

Hey

This week was comforting. I feel like the Lord is carrying alot of my load. I know He is. I had great experiences.

Before I forget: 

Would you guys please loosen the strings on Mable. Probably shouldn't sit like that.

 Wouldn't want her to be uncomfortable. Thanks! 

Also if you find time: I am assuming those NuGo bars you sent me were from Costco, they help so much because they are filling and quick, 

so if you find time could you send some of those. I can't shop at Costco!

So President called and asked me to train a new missionary here in the Iowa City 1st ward. I will be here for another three months. Thats exciting I LOVE this ward. That means nine of the months on my mission will be in the 1st ward, and about five of them spent training. I love training because it keeps you studying the fundamentals, and I just love helping someone one on one. It will be awesome!

As for the work things are looking up. The highlight of this week was definitely the following story:

We have been trying to meet with this family that is really prepared and humble. Their son Jack had a brain aneurism (however you spell that) and will never be the same. He was seven years old. The whole family is relatively mad at God, yet wants to understand why this happened. We met with their other son Drew on Friday night because he was the only one home. He is 14 and just started Freshman year. 

I remember the weird stage of life that was. He expressed that he really wanted to know God. 

We had a great discussion about the Plan of Salvation, and why the Lord lets us struggle sometimes, 

and how Jesus knows how to help us because he had been there. 

The whole lesson there was this beautiful contrast of heavenly vs worldly. 

There were block parties and nasty music blaring throughout the neighborhood as we sat on the porch. After we invited him to baptism (said he would if he kept feeling the spirit) we knelt down on the porch and he said the most heartfelt prayer. Afterward he remained on his knees and said, "You know...I really admire you guys...I think the greatest gift you can ever give somebody is to help them know God."

That will be a cherished memory. This kid fully understood the purpose of missionaries, 

and through the spirit saw the intents of our hearts.

Mom and Dad,

Thank you for your love and following promptings, like when to share news and when to withhold it. 

Thank you for helping me develop critical social skills. I love you and thank God for you every day.

Love you guys

Elder Tall

August 6, 2012

Good Morning, Dallin!

I'm at work already and I thought I would get you a quick note before I start working.

How was your week? I didn't hear from you last week and I thought that maybe they changed their minds and transferred you. I assume you are still with Elder Davey.  How is he doing?  Are you still in the same ward or same apartment?  Are you using your bike?  How are your shoes doing?  Did you buy two pairs? 

My friend Katherin is moving to Arizona.  As I was saying my prayers this morning, I had a strong impression to give her a Book of Mormon.  I will write in it and give it to here this week.  No procrastination!

Things are going along ok.  It has been record heat here.  In fact, they are calling this the hottest on record and the dryest.  Dad and I went over the pass and hiked and fished the Clark's Fork a little bit.  It was so beautiful.  Heavenly Father really saved his best artistic gifts for the Yellowstone/Shoshone forests!  We found a beautiful swimming hole(s) that we can't wait to take all of our family to- maybe a family reunion up there or something.

I am taking a short trip to Utah this weekend for Syd's wedding.  I can't wait to meet her fiance.  I hope they will be happy.

I am sending you a package this week.  It has your new ATM card in it.  Make sure you take it out and activate it.  Should I send Zuccini bread or banana bread?  :)

Well, we think about you everyday.  I know you are very busy. We are so blessed even in our challenges. I gave this poem to Beau before he left.  It is one of my favorites- Since Beau has been cutting down trees for 3 weeks, he reminded me that this is quite literal for him :)

Good Timber

The tree that never had to fight
For sun and sky and air and light,
But stood out in the open plain
And always got its share of rain,
Never became a forest king
But lived and died a scrubby thing.
The man who never had to toil
To gain and farm his patch of soil,
Who never had to win his share
Of sun and sky and light and air,
Never became a manly man
But lived and died as he began.
Good timber does not grow with ease,
The stronger wind, the stronger trees,
The further sky, the greater length,
The more the storm the more the strength.
By sun and cold, by rain and snow,
In trees and men good timbers grow.

Where thickest lies the forest growth
We find the patriarchs of both.
And they hold counsel with the stars
Whose broken branches show the scars
Of many winds and much of strife.
This is the common law of life.

We love you!

Mom

Hey!

         Last week I couldn't find your email, so I figured I would just wait for this week to write. Well this week, and last week have been rough, can't sugar coat it. I don't know how to say it in a way to simplify something so complex. Your leg gets tired when you are dragging a ball and chain. 

It got to the point where I was hating every moment of my mission so it was time to call President. 

       Understand, this issue with Elder Davey involves alot of people. Basically the ultimatum is that he cannot remain in the mission going from companion to companion destroying them ( his companions including me are far from perfect, but there is a difference in imperfection and constant cynicism and malice) so the behavior either changes or he goes home. I really love and care about this kid, and I still have pure intentions in helping him. Few people will ever get to know him as well as I have, and I would be sad to see him go. He has a world of people who will never understand him, and it makes me really respect the God Head. They understand him at least.

            Oh and to clear up the original story, he has no diagnosed mental disorders, and even family services can't figure it out. I feel bad for him. I have not been transferred. Transfers are in two weeks, and I'm sure I won't be staying with Elder Davey. If the pattern of crazy things in my mission continues I probably will though. We were biking alot, but his bike broke. My shoes are still recovering from the storm we had the other day. I only have one pair. I'll make em last! 

       The storm was something I have never seen. It was 70 mph winds and you couldn't even see ten feet in front of you because it poured so hard. We were bookin' it into Costco to get some lunch and the parking lot was like a river. It was up past my ankles within five min of the rain starting. So good to hear about your friend Katherin, and your impression! Let me know how it goes.

        So Jason and Pheobe successfully moved to Arizona. They are already meeting with the missionaries down there, so that will be awesome. Jason is so ready. I can't wait to hear about his conversion. Agusta is being a bit stubborn about her other church, but she is still progressing. If she had Word of Wisdom issues to deal with, then we will have to push the date back. Still workin hard to find investigators...Oh we got to watch the restoration movie with Momma Iniguez's staunch catholic sister!

                                                                          Love you guys,

                                                                            Elder Tall

August 6, 2012 Ang & Dal

DAL!!!!!

        I am the worst sis ever, I missed 2 mondays and I'm so sorry. Here's my best excuse: I have been sick for 3 weeks, like laying on my face moaning, because I'M PREGNANT! Due in March. Only 9 weeks along,  I'm so rediculously sick. At the cabin I was with Steph who is pregnant too ( due December, yes with her FOURTH child) and she gave me some sweet meds that seem to help, just make me uber-tired. I miss you so bad! 

       I'm watching the olympics with Gma & Gpa Tall right now and it's like 6000 degrees in here, give or take. If Gpa goes and turns the thermostat up one more time Ima swat his hand. So I am going on my 4th week away from home. I went to BIllings, then the cabin and stayed with Ally for a week after then came to Utah to deal with my condo, which is turning out to be so damaged I might let it go. Syd gets married this Friday then I go home. I CAN'T WAIT.

       I'll tell you what is hilar, is watching China's male gymnastics team do the floor exercises. Ribbons. You know, the whole she-bang. Or he-bang?

       Anyway, I wish I could tell you in words how much your journey and what you are doing right now inspires us here at home. Everyone. We pray for you every night and as much as I miss you everyday, I have no doubt that the people where you are need you. Be open, be happy and thoughtful. There are lots of changes back here at home, but just know that you are a champ and the apple of our eyes and you are exactly where you should be.

 I love this scripture in Matthew 11:28-30 we talked about today in Gma's ward that says:

 " 28 ¶^aCome unto me, all ye that ^blabour and are heavy laden, and I will give you ^crest.

29 Take my ^ayoke upon you, and ^blearn of me; for I am ^cmeek and^dlowly in ^eheart: and ye shall find ^frest unto your souls.
30 For my yoke is ^aeasy, and my burden is light.

I love this because it  is like the end-all-be-all answer to any questions people have about dealing with life. Here's my interpretation: you do your very best, and after that you just have to hand the rest of it to Christ and he'll carry you, so guess what? There is no reason for fear and unrest, because through Him you can always find peace and you always have a way to find healing and support. LOVE THIS. 

You're de best,

Ang

PICS FROM OUR TRIP:

ANG:

Aw I loved those pictures! Made me day. Oh how those scriptures apply right now. I am learning so much. It is amazing, and I wouldn't trade it. Wait your pregnant? Was I supposed to know that?

 If you are, then that is so awesome!  And if you're not...still love you.

I really hope that everyone is reading the scriptures and praying with sincerity, because 100% of all less actives we meet started with deficiencies in this spiritually nutritious area.

Love you, and thanks again for the love and support and pictures and neices and nephews. 

Elder Tall