Its been another great week in Oakville!
Just when I thought that summer was over we had a fairly hot and humid day yesterday and it sounds like it will be like that for the rest of the week. Luckily we have quite a few appointments this week with investigators. The work is really starting to get going again. Hopefully by the end of the month we will have three or four baptismal dates. We had a really fun time last week at the zoo and arch. Luckily we didn't get towed, we did however, get a parking ticket!!! It wasn't really our fault though, there were three signs all saying different things, so we just decided to park. Lucky for us, it wasnt quite $400, only $25. I have decided after that, that I refuse to drive/park in the city anymore.
This past weekend was really great too. We had another leadership training, a zone leader council, priesthood leadership meeting, and a special zone conference with Elder Richards from the second quorm of seventy. Oh yea, we also had our stake conference in the middle of all that and one of our area authorities was there. Needless to say, we had lots of meetings this weekend (thats also why we are having P day today, because of zone conference yesterday). We got some great council from Elder Richards. He talked about how to have effective councils, becoming sanctified, leadership, and a bunch of other stuff that I cant remember right now. We also had our team ups with the assistants last week. I reminded Elder Nelson how long I've been a zone leader, nine and a half months, sounds like I might go another transfer though. I wouldn't mind, but we'll see what happens.
During stake conference the area authority, Elder Deshler, talked about "multitasking." he said that when someone multitasks they only focus a little bit on everything. He then related it to the gospel. if we are trying to include the gospel in our "multitasking" we won't get very much out of it. Instead, we need to make sure that we are fully engaged in the work of the Lord in every calling we have, every time we read the scriptures, or every time that we pray. It was really a good reminder.
Mom-My mouth is doing good. we have a ton of dentist and orthodontists in the ward if anything were to happen.
Dad-I dont entirely remember the bishops son referring us to anyone, we did have our ward mission leaders son introduce us to one of his friends. nothing really came of it though. We'll get big rain storms here too, but in about 5 min. everything will be dried up though.
Anyway, have a great week.
Love,
Elder Egan
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Going Through Hard Time???....Shake a Hand!
Its been another great week in Oakville!
We were on a bunch of team ups this week with the zone. We were up in the city again (we made sure to get a parking pass this time) and then the next day down in Crystal City. Team ups are really tiring but I love being able to spend the time with the other Elders. We had a really good week otherwise, when we were able to work our area. Most of our stop bys and appointments all worked out. It was a well needed "tender mercy." It seems that the work is starting to pick up again and people are getting more excited about missionary work.
We had a really good day at church yesterday. In our PEC/ Ward Council we focused on not only missionary work but also retintion and reactivation. The Bishop challenged everyone to make sure and greet everyone they see, active members and everyone. You never know when someone is going through a hard time and just needs a simple hand shake and hello. He also said that we should make sure to shake at least 15 peoples hands. We made is sorta a game between the four of us elders, and we saw a huge improvement on everyone we saw. It was a nice little reminder from Bishop. One of the talks was something about "purity" and how the pure only see pure. I think he read from Titus or something like that but he talked about how when we're pure that we only see/look for the good or pure in everything/everyone else. The deaf couple wasnt there today, but we still pray for them. Today is E. Ipsen's birthday, so we're going down town to go the the Arch and the Zoo, so its going to be really fun, and on top of that, its a great day. The sun is out, and its not to hot or humid!
Mom-yeah, the Bankheads got home Sat (well Pres. Bankhead did. Sis. Bankhead is still out for another week) and we got our mail. Thats crazy to think that Ryan is already home and Jeff isn't too far behind. And I guess now that I think of it, my time is coming much faster than I want.
Dad-I've been hearing alot from Ether 12:27 this week. I guess I should study it again, maybe the Lord is trying to tell me something. It's a great scripture and one that you can never read too many times. I've been reading lately in Enos, Jarom, and Omni and even though they are not very big, they sure are full of great things.
Love you lots and thanks for everything,
Elder Egan
We were on a bunch of team ups this week with the zone. We were up in the city again (we made sure to get a parking pass this time) and then the next day down in Crystal City. Team ups are really tiring but I love being able to spend the time with the other Elders. We had a really good week otherwise, when we were able to work our area. Most of our stop bys and appointments all worked out. It was a well needed "tender mercy." It seems that the work is starting to pick up again and people are getting more excited about missionary work.
We had a really good day at church yesterday. In our PEC/ Ward Council we focused on not only missionary work but also retintion and reactivation. The Bishop challenged everyone to make sure and greet everyone they see, active members and everyone. You never know when someone is going through a hard time and just needs a simple hand shake and hello. He also said that we should make sure to shake at least 15 peoples hands. We made is sorta a game between the four of us elders, and we saw a huge improvement on everyone we saw. It was a nice little reminder from Bishop. One of the talks was something about "purity" and how the pure only see pure. I think he read from Titus or something like that but he talked about how when we're pure that we only see/look for the good or pure in everything/everyone else. The deaf couple wasnt there today, but we still pray for them. Today is E. Ipsen's birthday, so we're going down town to go the the Arch and the Zoo, so its going to be really fun, and on top of that, its a great day. The sun is out, and its not to hot or humid!
Mom-yeah, the Bankheads got home Sat (well Pres. Bankhead did. Sis. Bankhead is still out for another week) and we got our mail. Thats crazy to think that Ryan is already home and Jeff isn't too far behind. And I guess now that I think of it, my time is coming much faster than I want.
Dad-I've been hearing alot from Ether 12:27 this week. I guess I should study it again, maybe the Lord is trying to tell me something. It's a great scripture and one that you can never read too many times. I've been reading lately in Enos, Jarom, and Omni and even though they are not very big, they sure are full of great things.
Love you lots and thanks for everything,
Elder Egan
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Busch Stadium and The Cardinals
Its been another great week in Oakville!
Lots of meetings at the begining of the week and then the Cardinals game on Sat, so we weren't able to teach a whole bunch of lessons. It was really fun though. Busch Stadium is really nice and since everyone was there, we had a lot of fun. Then after the game we stayed in the city to see a baptism. It was a great way to end the night, even though the Cardinals lost. It has been a great weekend weather wise too. Then today it started raining again, oh well. We were tracting yesterday and we found a new person to start teaching. He's been Catholic for his whole life but was really open, let us in, and accepted a Book Of Mormon. Then before we could ask for his number he offered it to us! it was really neat. Then on Sunday, two people walked into sacrament. She is deaf and her boyfriend interperts for her. As we were talking with them, we found out that they've been looking into the church for a while on their own. We asked if we could come by and teach them but they said not yet. So hopefully they'll come back next week.
Mom- When does Trevor report to the MTC? Has Tyson already left? Doesn't Jeff get home next month?
Dad-Sounds like your having fun. We'll try to have a baptism for you to report for next month. Thats our goal anyway.
Anyway, we had to work yesterday and only have till 3 today to get everything done.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
Lots of meetings at the begining of the week and then the Cardinals game on Sat, so we weren't able to teach a whole bunch of lessons. It was really fun though. Busch Stadium is really nice and since everyone was there, we had a lot of fun. Then after the game we stayed in the city to see a baptism. It was a great way to end the night, even though the Cardinals lost. It has been a great weekend weather wise too. Then today it started raining again, oh well. We were tracting yesterday and we found a new person to start teaching. He's been Catholic for his whole life but was really open, let us in, and accepted a Book Of Mormon. Then before we could ask for his number he offered it to us! it was really neat. Then on Sunday, two people walked into sacrament. She is deaf and her boyfriend interperts for her. As we were talking with them, we found out that they've been looking into the church for a while on their own. We asked if we could come by and teach them but they said not yet. So hopefully they'll come back next week.
Mom- When does Trevor report to the MTC? Has Tyson already left? Doesn't Jeff get home next month?
Dad-Sounds like your having fun. We'll try to have a baptism for you to report for next month. Thats our goal anyway.
Anyway, we had to work yesterday and only have till 3 today to get everything done.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
Monday, August 30, 2010
Another Interesting Week
Its been another great week in Oakville!
It was another interesting week anyways. Friday morning we got a called from a ward member and they asked us to help them move some things that evening. I said yes not realizing what I was getting us into. They drove us about 15 min. outside the zone to an office building, where we loaded up two trailers full of stuff, big and heavy stuff. After the first one was full E. Westfall and I jumped back into the truck and drove to the new office and unloaded the truck. Then when the other trailer came (with the two other elders) we unloaded that one as well. there wasn't an elevator so we had to carry everything up two flights of stairs. one of these items was a side by side freezer/fridge. we had it strapped on the dolly and I was pulling from the top (taking it up the stairs) and the other two elders were pushing from the bottom. Well, it came off the dolly and fell on my leg, luckily they got it off quick but it still wasn't very fun. Then later as we were carrying up a really big desk, I tripped going up and the desk fell on me too! By the time we got home it was about 12:30 that night! We were dead.
Then Sat. our ward mission leader calls up and invites us to breakfast (he lives across the street). The thing is, that John Bytheway and his wife were also staying over there. So we ate breakfast with the Bytheways. It was really neat. Then he gave a youth fireside that afternoon. It was great. He had a lot of great insights. some that I really liked were about the Sabbath. He said "Our great grandfathers called it the Holy Sabbath, Our grandfathers called it the Sabbath, our fathers called it Sunday, and we call it the weekend." It really shows how the world views the sabbath day. He also talked about Charity and what it was. He said that Charity is "the love for God, the love from God, and love like God."
Then last night we went over to a couples house to eat with one of our investigators. She is a proffesional pianist and plays for Walt Disney. She asked for a hymn and she made her own arrangment right there on the spot! it was way good!! The lesson went really good too, it was all in all a really fun night and "weekend."
Mom-E. Westfall and I are doing really great. Sometimes we get a little distracted because we'll remember something from the MTC or something, but like i said, we're doing really good. Its going to be a fun transfer. Yeah, he's the one from BYUI. My clothes are fine. Everyone gets those rubber bands in the MTC. I never used mine and gave it away. Depending on the area you do different things. In St. Peters we just did push ups and stuff you can do by yourself. In Chesterfeild we had limited weights to use. In Columbia we had a full bench and a ton of weights, (it helped having two football players living with you). Then at Brent Bankheads, we had a full workout room where we lived downstairs. Now im back to just a few weights and pushups. Exciting stuff.
Dad-the Bankheads are out of town right now, I'll have to get more info on the Egans later. I know they're somewhere in Idaho.
Anyway, I'm trying to read the Book of Mormon this transfer with another couple of elders. I've slowed down though since I've got to Isaiah. I still can't quite get a hold of what he's saying. I'll have to take a class or two on him when I get back.
Have a great week,
Love,
Elder Egan
It was another interesting week anyways. Friday morning we got a called from a ward member and they asked us to help them move some things that evening. I said yes not realizing what I was getting us into. They drove us about 15 min. outside the zone to an office building, where we loaded up two trailers full of stuff, big and heavy stuff. After the first one was full E. Westfall and I jumped back into the truck and drove to the new office and unloaded the truck. Then when the other trailer came (with the two other elders) we unloaded that one as well. there wasn't an elevator so we had to carry everything up two flights of stairs. one of these items was a side by side freezer/fridge. we had it strapped on the dolly and I was pulling from the top (taking it up the stairs) and the other two elders were pushing from the bottom. Well, it came off the dolly and fell on my leg, luckily they got it off quick but it still wasn't very fun. Then later as we were carrying up a really big desk, I tripped going up and the desk fell on me too! By the time we got home it was about 12:30 that night! We were dead.
Then Sat. our ward mission leader calls up and invites us to breakfast (he lives across the street). The thing is, that John Bytheway and his wife were also staying over there. So we ate breakfast with the Bytheways. It was really neat. Then he gave a youth fireside that afternoon. It was great. He had a lot of great insights. some that I really liked were about the Sabbath. He said "Our great grandfathers called it the Holy Sabbath, Our grandfathers called it the Sabbath, our fathers called it Sunday, and we call it the weekend." It really shows how the world views the sabbath day. He also talked about Charity and what it was. He said that Charity is "the love for God, the love from God, and love like God."
Then last night we went over to a couples house to eat with one of our investigators. She is a proffesional pianist and plays for Walt Disney. She asked for a hymn and she made her own arrangment right there on the spot! it was way good!! The lesson went really good too, it was all in all a really fun night and "weekend."
Mom-E. Westfall and I are doing really great. Sometimes we get a little distracted because we'll remember something from the MTC or something, but like i said, we're doing really good. Its going to be a fun transfer. Yeah, he's the one from BYUI. My clothes are fine. Everyone gets those rubber bands in the MTC. I never used mine and gave it away. Depending on the area you do different things. In St. Peters we just did push ups and stuff you can do by yourself. In Chesterfeild we had limited weights to use. In Columbia we had a full bench and a ton of weights, (it helped having two football players living with you). Then at Brent Bankheads, we had a full workout room where we lived downstairs. Now im back to just a few weights and pushups. Exciting stuff.
Dad-the Bankheads are out of town right now, I'll have to get more info on the Egans later. I know they're somewhere in Idaho.
Anyway, I'm trying to read the Book of Mormon this transfer with another couple of elders. I've slowed down though since I've got to Isaiah. I still can't quite get a hold of what he's saying. I'll have to take a class or two on him when I get back.
Have a great week,
Love,
Elder Egan
Monday, August 23, 2010
Worn Out Shoes
Its been another great week in Oakville!!
Transfer calls were Sat. Yeah, Elder Jenkins is going home and you'll never guess who I'm getting, It's Elder Westfall, my MTC companion! Its going to be a fun transfer. We are also getting a lot of other really good Elders in the zone, its going to be a really great transfer. Speaking of a great transfer, the whole misison is going to a Cardinals game on the 4th. The mission arranged for a "Mormon night" at the stadium. It's going to be a lot of fun.
We were sitting at church yesterday and I looked at the bottom of my shoes, and the heels were starting to peel offI was kinda mad because they are really good shoes. I'm pretty sure that they'll last the last 8 months but if not I have my other pair.
Our investigator finally stayed for all three hours of church yesterday, we were really excited and she loved it.
We were able to go to the temple on Sat morning. It was great and I got a lot of neat insights that connected a bunch of my studies dealing with the Tree of Life vision and "mountains" in the scriptures. However, I also came up with a ton of questions that I really want answered, but it will be hard especially only going to the temple once a transfer. Oh well, good thing there are plenty of temples to go to when I get home.
Mom-No, i wasn't able to go to Linda and Seans baptism this weekend. I wanted to really bad though. I interviewed Sean for baptism and Elder Jenkins interviewed Linda. We were planning on going, but we had to do some team ups with some elders that we had kept putting off. We were really disappointed that we missed it. "Have you been to Forest Park?" YES, the zoo and everything is there. "Route 66?" YES, thats were Ted Drews is. "Ted Drewes restraunt??" YES, its delicious. We're going again tonight. "Have you tried Fitz's Rootbeer?" YES, its alright. "People have raved about the Botanical Gardens...which I know you went to...then of course there are alot of museums." Yes, working on all those. "Have you been to the one with the bus hanging halfway off the roof?" YES and no. The building is the City Museum and its crazy fun, but the roof was 5 more dollars so we didnt go up there.
Dad-I was looking through a book that the Bankheads had about their family history and came across some Egans that live out somewhere in Idaho. Wade William Egan and his dad William Alva Egan. Wade married one of the Bankheads Nieces. Crazy who you run into out here.
Anyway,
Love,
Elder Egan
Transfer calls were Sat. Yeah, Elder Jenkins is going home and you'll never guess who I'm getting, It's Elder Westfall, my MTC companion! Its going to be a fun transfer. We are also getting a lot of other really good Elders in the zone, its going to be a really great transfer. Speaking of a great transfer, the whole misison is going to a Cardinals game on the 4th. The mission arranged for a "Mormon night" at the stadium. It's going to be a lot of fun.
We were sitting at church yesterday and I looked at the bottom of my shoes, and the heels were starting to peel offI was kinda mad because they are really good shoes. I'm pretty sure that they'll last the last 8 months but if not I have my other pair.
Our investigator finally stayed for all three hours of church yesterday, we were really excited and she loved it.
We were able to go to the temple on Sat morning. It was great and I got a lot of neat insights that connected a bunch of my studies dealing with the Tree of Life vision and "mountains" in the scriptures. However, I also came up with a ton of questions that I really want answered, but it will be hard especially only going to the temple once a transfer. Oh well, good thing there are plenty of temples to go to when I get home.
Mom-No, i wasn't able to go to Linda and Seans baptism this weekend. I wanted to really bad though. I interviewed Sean for baptism and Elder Jenkins interviewed Linda. We were planning on going, but we had to do some team ups with some elders that we had kept putting off. We were really disappointed that we missed it. "Have you been to Forest Park?" YES, the zoo and everything is there. "Route 66?" YES, thats were Ted Drews is. "Ted Drewes restraunt??" YES, its delicious. We're going again tonight. "Have you tried Fitz's Rootbeer?" YES, its alright. "People have raved about the Botanical Gardens...which I know you went to...then of course there are alot of museums." Yes, working on all those. "Have you been to the one with the bus hanging halfway off the roof?" YES and no. The building is the City Museum and its crazy fun, but the roof was 5 more dollars so we didnt go up there.
Dad-I was looking through a book that the Bankheads had about their family history and came across some Egans that live out somewhere in Idaho. Wade William Egan and his dad William Alva Egan. Wade married one of the Bankheads Nieces. Crazy who you run into out here.
Anyway,
Love,
Elder Egan
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Uneventful Week....Sorta
Its been another great week in Oakville!
Its been a fairly uneventful week, sorta. A couple weeks ago one of the other oakville elders crashed on his bike and landed on his arm. well he was having trouble with it this week and still didn't have a full range of motion. So on Tues we took him to the urgent care. Turns out that he broke his elbow. Luckily for him, it had already started healing and was healing right. He has to go to therepy now every once in a while. He's doing good though. Then on Friday we met with the lady that has a baptismal date for the 21st. we talked alot about convenants and ordinances, and asked her to pray about baptism once more and call us on Sat. She did and doesn't feel ready, so we pushed the date back and will re set it for another time. She is doing really well still though, reading and coming to church.
Mom-thanks for the letters/ballot. I sent it in already.
Not much else to say this week.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
Its been a fairly uneventful week, sorta. A couple weeks ago one of the other oakville elders crashed on his bike and landed on his arm. well he was having trouble with it this week and still didn't have a full range of motion. So on Tues we took him to the urgent care. Turns out that he broke his elbow. Luckily for him, it had already started healing and was healing right. He has to go to therepy now every once in a while. He's doing good though. Then on Friday we met with the lady that has a baptismal date for the 21st. we talked alot about convenants and ordinances, and asked her to pray about baptism once more and call us on Sat. She did and doesn't feel ready, so we pushed the date back and will re set it for another time. She is doing really well still though, reading and coming to church.
Mom-thanks for the letters/ballot. I sent it in already.
Not much else to say this week.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
Monday, August 9, 2010
This Too Shall Pass
I'ts been another great week in Oakville!
As i said last week, we had our three day meeting this past week. Breakfast started at 8 am and we didn't leave the building til 9 pm. So...needless to say, it was really, really long. Learned alot though. Pres. and Sister Clark trained along with the Assistants. The church is putting another emphasis on Preach My Gospel, but this time focusing on Teaching skills. There are eight main ones; the doctirne of Christ-our purpose, the Holy Ghost, revelation through prayer, the BoM, Church attendance, teaching people not lessons, how to begin teaching, and something else I can't remember. Almost all of my past companions were there (everyone but the two that have gone home and one other person). So it was fun to see them all again.
You might have seen/heard (maybe not) the new ads the church is putting out. its called "I am a Mormon" they are really good and just show normal everyday people talking about their lives. Then at the end they say "and I am a Mormon." they are really well put together. Pres. Clark called up the head of Church PR or something like that and he was able to tell us a little more about it. It goes along with the updated mormon.org where members can create profiles sharing their testimones and what not. it sounds really neat, you should look into it.
Then on Sat. we went on team ups with the assistants. I went to Frontnack with Elder Nelson. It was good to work with him again. Then Sunday was really neat. There is a family in our ward, the Branhams, who we talked to last week about some of their friends. We had already started teaching the daughters friend and we were trying to set up another time to teach her. Then their three kids got really excited and started inviting a bunch of their friends. The daughter had three friends over and each of the two boys also had a friend over. Then bro. Branham had his nephew over too! All in all there were 7
non members that we taught and each took a Book of Mormon! It was great!! We'll be going back by to set up another time to teach them.
Then today, Pres. Bankhead asked us for some help. He was having his septic tank cleaned out, so we had to dig out the hole to get in there. It smelt terrible, even with the lid closed. now we have this permi stinch on us, oh well, this too shall pass. We were going to go up to the zoo and arch with some of the new elders but its supposed to be in the 100's so we thought it would be better to go next week, hopefully.
Mom-Sis. Bankhead is a big quilter/sewer too. She's always making something. No, my contacts are fine. I think ive changed them maybe three times...so yeah I'm good on those.
Dad-yeah, from what I understand the whole church is starting this new focus on PMG.
Josh-Wow. that's a busy summer. I don't know if I can say that mine has been quite that exciting...well maybe, in a different way though. Have fun at band camp.
Hopefully this is our last crazy week of the transfer. all we need to do is finish up our team ups and then we can focus more on our area.
Love,
Elder Egan
Oh and thanks for the package :)
As i said last week, we had our three day meeting this past week. Breakfast started at 8 am and we didn't leave the building til 9 pm. So...needless to say, it was really, really long. Learned alot though. Pres. and Sister Clark trained along with the Assistants. The church is putting another emphasis on Preach My Gospel, but this time focusing on Teaching skills. There are eight main ones; the doctirne of Christ-our purpose, the Holy Ghost, revelation through prayer, the BoM, Church attendance, teaching people not lessons, how to begin teaching, and something else I can't remember. Almost all of my past companions were there (everyone but the two that have gone home and one other person). So it was fun to see them all again.
You might have seen/heard (maybe not) the new ads the church is putting out. its called "I am a Mormon" they are really good and just show normal everyday people talking about their lives. Then at the end they say "and I am a Mormon." they are really well put together. Pres. Clark called up the head of Church PR or something like that and he was able to tell us a little more about it. It goes along with the updated mormon.org where members can create profiles sharing their testimones and what not. it sounds really neat, you should look into it.
Then on Sat. we went on team ups with the assistants. I went to Frontnack with Elder Nelson. It was good to work with him again. Then Sunday was really neat. There is a family in our ward, the Branhams, who we talked to last week about some of their friends. We had already started teaching the daughters friend and we were trying to set up another time to teach her. Then their three kids got really excited and started inviting a bunch of their friends. The daughter had three friends over and each of the two boys also had a friend over. Then bro. Branham had his nephew over too! All in all there were 7
non members that we taught and each took a Book of Mormon! It was great!! We'll be going back by to set up another time to teach them.
Then today, Pres. Bankhead asked us for some help. He was having his septic tank cleaned out, so we had to dig out the hole to get in there. It smelt terrible, even with the lid closed. now we have this permi stinch on us, oh well, this too shall pass. We were going to go up to the zoo and arch with some of the new elders but its supposed to be in the 100's so we thought it would be better to go next week, hopefully.
Mom-Sis. Bankhead is a big quilter/sewer too. She's always making something. No, my contacts are fine. I think ive changed them maybe three times...so yeah I'm good on those.
Dad-yeah, from what I understand the whole church is starting this new focus on PMG.
Josh-Wow. that's a busy summer. I don't know if I can say that mine has been quite that exciting...well maybe, in a different way though. Have fun at band camp.
Hopefully this is our last crazy week of the transfer. all we need to do is finish up our team ups and then we can focus more on our area.
Love,
Elder Egan
Oh and thanks for the package :)
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Another Crazy Week
Its been another great week in Oakville!
So we've had another crazy week, this time it was good though. We spent tues and wed in Crystal City on team ups. We originally we planned team ups on wed, and we were going to do a baptismal interview while we were there. But then the assistants called up and moved their team up with us to wed, so we had to go down to Crystal City on tues. Then while were down there they cancel our team up wed. so we had to go back down wed. and used a bunch of miles. it was really frustrating, but oh well. Then because the assistants kept moving our team up around, we had to cancel a bunch of stuff to try and work around it and we still havent had it yet. On friday we walked around the temple with our investigator with a date. It went great. We went with a couple from the ward that are working on being temple ready by the end of the year, so it was a double great thing. Tonight we have all of our district leaders and the one trainer in the zone coming down to stay with us for 3 days. We have a leadership training in Chesterfield tues through thurs. our meetings are all day for all three days. Not quite sure how it'll go but I guess I'll find out.
This morning the same guy that took us out to eat while we were in the city took us and the city elders to the Botanical (sp?) garden. It was pretty cool. Then after we are done emailing we are going mini golfing with the other Oakville elders. It'll be a fun day.
Mom-Sounds like camp was fun. I'll try to get a pic of a tow truck just for you guys.
Love,
Elder Egan
So we've had another crazy week, this time it was good though. We spent tues and wed in Crystal City on team ups. We originally we planned team ups on wed, and we were going to do a baptismal interview while we were there. But then the assistants called up and moved their team up with us to wed, so we had to go down to Crystal City on tues. Then while were down there they cancel our team up wed. so we had to go back down wed. and used a bunch of miles. it was really frustrating, but oh well. Then because the assistants kept moving our team up around, we had to cancel a bunch of stuff to try and work around it and we still havent had it yet. On friday we walked around the temple with our investigator with a date. It went great. We went with a couple from the ward that are working on being temple ready by the end of the year, so it was a double great thing. Tonight we have all of our district leaders and the one trainer in the zone coming down to stay with us for 3 days. We have a leadership training in Chesterfield tues through thurs. our meetings are all day for all three days. Not quite sure how it'll go but I guess I'll find out.
This morning the same guy that took us out to eat while we were in the city took us and the city elders to the Botanical (sp?) garden. It was pretty cool. Then after we are done emailing we are going mini golfing with the other Oakville elders. It'll be a fun day.
Mom-Sounds like camp was fun. I'll try to get a pic of a tow truck just for you guys.
Love,
Elder Egan
Sunday, August 1, 2010
What's a Parking Pass?
Its been another great week in Oakville!
So story time...
Once upon a time there were two Elders that had to go on team ups with some other missionaries in down town St. Louis. Going on team ups downtown is always fun, there are great elders there and your bound to see something funny happen. (So last transfer we parked in the parking lot and got a warning sticker. We went and talked to the Appartment managment and got a parking pass). Well we parked once again in the parking lot, at about 9:30, and went upstairs to get the pass out of their room. Well, as tends to happen when Elders get together, we started talking. When we realized what time it was 10:30-11
(yes we were up a little late) we ran down to put the pass in the car. By this time, one of St. Louis' wonderfully awful thunderstorms hit. One of the other Elders, E. Tanzie, ran outside with to the car but couldn't find it. So then E. Jenkins runs out too. Then we realize that it had been towed. So after the District Meeting in the morning we call the tow company and they tell us that becuase they got it at 10:00 they'd be charging us for two days since it was there over midnight! So it was $35 per day and a $300 flat fee!! The lady tells us to call back an hour before we are going to get there, so they can make sure someone is there and have the car ready. We'll we wait outside (in the high 90's plus humidity) for another 30 minutes after we told her that we were going to be there. Even though the charge was ridiculous what really got to me was the condition that the place was in. I could have easily broke down the door and got our car back. the roof was leaking, there were old, beat up recliners, and it was just filthy. So we finally get our car back. (E. Jenkins tried getting his money out but all he had was a credit card and we couldnt figure out how to get any money, so thats why I took the punch. He is in the process of paying me back for his half though). Anyway, so our day is just about all spent. But the other elders made it up to us. We ate with a man who is an ER doctor and is single. so in other words he has mucho money. He took us out to a sushi place, and of course i wasn't too happy when I learned that. But after eating I changed my mind. It was delicious. Before we ordered though he said something like this. "so i want to get this being modest out of the way. I have a certificate here for $100 off our ticket, but in order for that to happen I have to spend $200!" so we did. We not only had sushi, but steaks and dessert too. Then afterwards he had us do a "wasabi challenge." It was the craziest experience. Its a whole different kind of hot. I got it on video, you'll just have to wait to see it, its hillarious.
So that was pretty much the exciting part of my week this week, I think. It's the only thing that stands out anyway. Oh wait. I forgot, we set a baptismal date last Friday! It's for Aug 21st. It's really great for many reasons but one of them is because it will be E. Jenkins last one, he goes home on the 26th.
Mom-we get a call from Sis. Clark Fri night, but because we were setting the date, we obviously didn't answer. When I listened to the message it said "E. Egan I need to talk to you. Your mom just called. Give me a call back." Well, i wasn't sure what I'd done wrong so i wasnt sure what to expect when I called her back. When she told me that you'd called I just laughed, as did she. It was funny all around. From what it looked like, I don't think I overdrew too much. I knew there was almost that amount in there, I couldn't remember though. (hopefully this letter is long enough). Oh yeah, I tried to activate my new card but it won't let me. Do I have to wait till my old one expires? Just let me know when you can.
Dad-I finished the book of mormon again last night. It was great! there are so many wonderful things in Moroni 10 other than his promise like spiritual gifts and grace, just so much to learn!
Anyway I'll try to avoid tow zones this week. Can't promise anything though.
Love,
Elder Egan
So story time...
Once upon a time there were two Elders that had to go on team ups with some other missionaries in down town St. Louis. Going on team ups downtown is always fun, there are great elders there and your bound to see something funny happen. (So last transfer we parked in the parking lot and got a warning sticker. We went and talked to the Appartment managment and got a parking pass). Well we parked once again in the parking lot, at about 9:30, and went upstairs to get the pass out of their room. Well, as tends to happen when Elders get together, we started talking. When we realized what time it was 10:30-11
(yes we were up a little late) we ran down to put the pass in the car. By this time, one of St. Louis' wonderfully awful thunderstorms hit. One of the other Elders, E. Tanzie, ran outside with to the car but couldn't find it. So then E. Jenkins runs out too. Then we realize that it had been towed. So after the District Meeting in the morning we call the tow company and they tell us that becuase they got it at 10:00 they'd be charging us for two days since it was there over midnight! So it was $35 per day and a $300 flat fee!! The lady tells us to call back an hour before we are going to get there, so they can make sure someone is there and have the car ready. We'll we wait outside (in the high 90's plus humidity) for another 30 minutes after we told her that we were going to be there. Even though the charge was ridiculous what really got to me was the condition that the place was in. I could have easily broke down the door and got our car back. the roof was leaking, there were old, beat up recliners, and it was just filthy. So we finally get our car back. (E. Jenkins tried getting his money out but all he had was a credit card and we couldnt figure out how to get any money, so thats why I took the punch. He is in the process of paying me back for his half though). Anyway, so our day is just about all spent. But the other elders made it up to us. We ate with a man who is an ER doctor and is single. so in other words he has mucho money. He took us out to a sushi place, and of course i wasn't too happy when I learned that. But after eating I changed my mind. It was delicious. Before we ordered though he said something like this. "so i want to get this being modest out of the way. I have a certificate here for $100 off our ticket, but in order for that to happen I have to spend $200!" so we did. We not only had sushi, but steaks and dessert too. Then afterwards he had us do a "wasabi challenge." It was the craziest experience. Its a whole different kind of hot. I got it on video, you'll just have to wait to see it, its hillarious.
So that was pretty much the exciting part of my week this week, I think. It's the only thing that stands out anyway. Oh wait. I forgot, we set a baptismal date last Friday! It's for Aug 21st. It's really great for many reasons but one of them is because it will be E. Jenkins last one, he goes home on the 26th.
Mom-we get a call from Sis. Clark Fri night, but because we were setting the date, we obviously didn't answer. When I listened to the message it said "E. Egan I need to talk to you. Your mom just called. Give me a call back." Well, i wasn't sure what I'd done wrong so i wasnt sure what to expect when I called her back. When she told me that you'd called I just laughed, as did she. It was funny all around. From what it looked like, I don't think I overdrew too much. I knew there was almost that amount in there, I couldn't remember though. (hopefully this letter is long enough). Oh yeah, I tried to activate my new card but it won't let me. Do I have to wait till my old one expires? Just let me know when you can.
Dad-I finished the book of mormon again last night. It was great! there are so many wonderful things in Moroni 10 other than his promise like spiritual gifts and grace, just so much to learn!
Anyway I'll try to avoid tow zones this week. Can't promise anything though.
Love,
Elder Egan
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Work Hard...Play Hard
Its been another great week in Oakville!
We had a really great lesson with Margret, the investigator we've been working with. We talked about testimonies and then pointed out that she had one as well. It was neat. she said that she was coming to church. The weather was a little nasty so that may have prevented her from coming. Then on Sat. Christian Bankhead, the ones we use to live with, brought over one of his friends so that we could teach her. It went really really well. We taught a 1st lesson gave her a BoM and commited her to read and pray. She accepted and we have another appointment for next Sunday. We're really excited for her. Hopefully we'll be able to see both of them get baptized this or next month!
We had ZLC this past weekend. It was really intense with the two new zones. It was crazy trying to figure out all the new policies and what not, even the language between us was different. We now have to wear our suits to ALL of our dinner appointments. that means that we either have to run home and change before we eat or we have to tract/work in our suits all day (it was something the other mission did). There was a lot of heavy "council" about it but we decided to try it for a transfer and we're planning on bringing it back up next transfer. Pres Clark is also trying to see if, for next year, he can get permission to go up to Navuoo for the pagent! that'd be great except I'll be home before that happens (crazy to think about). He has a policy of "Work hard, play hard." It'll be good for the mission.
We also had our monthly meeting with the Stake Pres. and high councilor over missionary work. it was really good too. We are rolling out a new member program that we are going to try in the stake We're really excited for it.
Mom-yeah, Elder Jenkins and I are still together and we're doing good. Yes I got the package.
Dad-sounds like you all are busy and are enjoying all of it. Hopefully I'll finish the Book of Mormon again this week. I just started Ether. I just love that you are always learning and drawing closer to our Savior each time you pick it up.
Love you all and have a great week,
Elder Egan
We had a really great lesson with Margret, the investigator we've been working with. We talked about testimonies and then pointed out that she had one as well. It was neat. she said that she was coming to church. The weather was a little nasty so that may have prevented her from coming. Then on Sat. Christian Bankhead, the ones we use to live with, brought over one of his friends so that we could teach her. It went really really well. We taught a 1st lesson gave her a BoM and commited her to read and pray. She accepted and we have another appointment for next Sunday. We're really excited for her. Hopefully we'll be able to see both of them get baptized this or next month!
We had ZLC this past weekend. It was really intense with the two new zones. It was crazy trying to figure out all the new policies and what not, even the language between us was different. We now have to wear our suits to ALL of our dinner appointments. that means that we either have to run home and change before we eat or we have to tract/work in our suits all day (it was something the other mission did). There was a lot of heavy "council" about it but we decided to try it for a transfer and we're planning on bringing it back up next transfer. Pres Clark is also trying to see if, for next year, he can get permission to go up to Navuoo for the pagent! that'd be great except I'll be home before that happens (crazy to think about). He has a policy of "Work hard, play hard." It'll be good for the mission.
We also had our monthly meeting with the Stake Pres. and high councilor over missionary work. it was really good too. We are rolling out a new member program that we are going to try in the stake We're really excited for it.
Mom-yeah, Elder Jenkins and I are still together and we're doing good. Yes I got the package.
Dad-sounds like you all are busy and are enjoying all of it. Hopefully I'll finish the Book of Mormon again this week. I just started Ether. I just love that you are always learning and drawing closer to our Savior each time you pick it up.
Love you all and have a great week,
Elder Egan
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Good Week
Its been another great week in Oakville!
We had a really good lesson with one of our most progressing investigators this past Friday. We watched a movie about the prophet Joseph Smith and then extended a baptismal commitment. she said not yet but is definitley thinking about it. She's come to church the past three weeks. Other than her, we're doing a lot of tracting and trying to get the members more into Preach My Gospel. So far the member work is going pretty well and they're getting excited.
We just moved all our stuff this morning. The younger Bankheads have had Elders for about six months which is about normal time for a family to house the Elders here. The room we're in is a little smaller but we're excited to be there.
Dad-We do a lot more district things. Its hard to get the whole zone out and we're supposed to avoid gathering in large groups of missionaries, so doing district things are lot easier to pull off and handle.
Mom-Our meeting with Pres. Clark went really well. He is sorta a mix between Pres. Turley and Pres. Briggs. He also told us about a few changes that the church is making in the missionary program. We're not having any more zone conferences and we are only going to get interviewed once a quarter. They are also starting a three to four day leadership training thing once a quarter as well. we're not sure what that'll entail but we'll see. I got the envelope with the pics and stuff, it was great. They are probably holding anything else til after transfers. Ill send you my new address this week (hopefully)
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
We had a really good lesson with one of our most progressing investigators this past Friday. We watched a movie about the prophet Joseph Smith and then extended a baptismal commitment. she said not yet but is definitley thinking about it. She's come to church the past three weeks. Other than her, we're doing a lot of tracting and trying to get the members more into Preach My Gospel. So far the member work is going pretty well and they're getting excited.
We just moved all our stuff this morning. The younger Bankheads have had Elders for about six months which is about normal time for a family to house the Elders here. The room we're in is a little smaller but we're excited to be there.
Dad-We do a lot more district things. Its hard to get the whole zone out and we're supposed to avoid gathering in large groups of missionaries, so doing district things are lot easier to pull off and handle.
Mom-Our meeting with Pres. Clark went really well. He is sorta a mix between Pres. Turley and Pres. Briggs. He also told us about a few changes that the church is making in the missionary program. We're not having any more zone conferences and we are only going to get interviewed once a quarter. They are also starting a three to four day leadership training thing once a quarter as well. we're not sure what that'll entail but we'll see. I got the envelope with the pics and stuff, it was great. They are probably holding anything else til after transfers. Ill send you my new address this week (hopefully)
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Week of Faith and Humbling
Its been another great week in Oakville!
It was a week of faith and humbling from the Lord. We had a baptism scheduled for sat evening. and before that on friday we were to have a lesson with her to resolve some last concerns (I dont remember if I told you last week but she comes from a Muslim background and had a few questions about still believing in the Koran and "Alla"). Well, we show up sat. but her mom said that she was out with her dad. I was a little concerned thinking that maybe he was trying to "keep her a Muslim." So then sat rolls around and we still haven't heard anything from her. We finally get through at about 2 and she said that she wouldnt be able to make her baptism that evening. She was having family coming in from out of town and her mom wouldnt let her leave.
So in the meantime we had said many prayers in faith and went out and worked. As we are stressing about the bapitsm, we checked on a family that we'd tracted into last week and taught a really solid lesson and they were almost speechless when we talked about modern prophets and apostles! They didnt make it to church but we have high hopes for them (they have a little five year old, Johnathan, that just makes it that much better to teach). We still havent heard at this time about our baptism so we call Christian Bankhead (we live in his basement) to text her about it. He finally calls us back and tells us we're on. So we run home change and finish filling the font (there was a baptism earlier so the font was already mostly full). So we're all ready and everyone is there when we get a call from her saying that she can't make it. We tried to reschedule for sun, then tues, but couldnt and finally she said next sat. SO, we have a baptism this sat. and hopefully her younger sister will be ready by then too. Despite all that, we were reminded to put our trust in the Lord and that this is HIS work and not ours.
Anyway, there was a musical put on last night by the Navoo Pagent people. We were all invited to it. The play was alright, but the best part was probably seeing everyone. It was for all the St. Louis stakes so all of my old areas, except Columbia, were there. We also got to see Pres. and Sis. Briggs one last time before they leave on Thurs.
Mom-Sounds like dance festival was great. Do you get a break now? or are you already doing something else? Wow, Lauren's already home, thats crazy. Ryan should be getting back pretty soon now too, right? There was a missionary that just returned in our ward who just got done serving in Vegas, Elder Bronson, he said that he knew Jeff, not well just knew of him. Speaking of which, there is another kid who will be leaving for Vegas next week, Elder Dixson. and yes I called columbia and talked to them about it. It'll be taken care of.
Dad-yeah, we have a pair of sisters in the zone. one I served with in Chesterfield and the other one is sorta kinda new, she came out the transfer after I trained. I dont remember Sis. Plessingers cousins name. I may have met her, dont know though. There are lots of people that I dont know now.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
It was a week of faith and humbling from the Lord. We had a baptism scheduled for sat evening. and before that on friday we were to have a lesson with her to resolve some last concerns (I dont remember if I told you last week but she comes from a Muslim background and had a few questions about still believing in the Koran and "Alla"). Well, we show up sat. but her mom said that she was out with her dad. I was a little concerned thinking that maybe he was trying to "keep her a Muslim." So then sat rolls around and we still haven't heard anything from her. We finally get through at about 2 and she said that she wouldnt be able to make her baptism that evening. She was having family coming in from out of town and her mom wouldnt let her leave.
So in the meantime we had said many prayers in faith and went out and worked. As we are stressing about the bapitsm, we checked on a family that we'd tracted into last week and taught a really solid lesson and they were almost speechless when we talked about modern prophets and apostles! They didnt make it to church but we have high hopes for them (they have a little five year old, Johnathan, that just makes it that much better to teach). We still havent heard at this time about our baptism so we call Christian Bankhead (we live in his basement) to text her about it. He finally calls us back and tells us we're on. So we run home change and finish filling the font (there was a baptism earlier so the font was already mostly full). So we're all ready and everyone is there when we get a call from her saying that she can't make it. We tried to reschedule for sun, then tues, but couldnt and finally she said next sat. SO, we have a baptism this sat. and hopefully her younger sister will be ready by then too. Despite all that, we were reminded to put our trust in the Lord and that this is HIS work and not ours.
Anyway, there was a musical put on last night by the Navoo Pagent people. We were all invited to it. The play was alright, but the best part was probably seeing everyone. It was for all the St. Louis stakes so all of my old areas, except Columbia, were there. We also got to see Pres. and Sis. Briggs one last time before they leave on Thurs.
Mom-Sounds like dance festival was great. Do you get a break now? or are you already doing something else? Wow, Lauren's already home, thats crazy. Ryan should be getting back pretty soon now too, right? There was a missionary that just returned in our ward who just got done serving in Vegas, Elder Bronson, he said that he knew Jeff, not well just knew of him. Speaking of which, there is another kid who will be leaving for Vegas next week, Elder Dixson. and yes I called columbia and talked to them about it. It'll be taken care of.
Dad-yeah, we have a pair of sisters in the zone. one I served with in Chesterfield and the other one is sorta kinda new, she came out the transfer after I trained. I dont remember Sis. Plessingers cousins name. I may have met her, dont know though. There are lots of people that I dont know now.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Hot and Humid
Its been another great week in Oakville!
It was a vey fun week where we were able to hit the road and teach a lot of people. Not much has come from it yet but we have some great potentials. We have a baptism this week, that we are really looking forward to. She's the 18 year old, I don't remember if I told you about her or not. But anyway she and her 14 year old sister both went to youth conference this past weekend and really liked it. We are wanting to baptize her sister as well but we havent brought it up yet. We are planning on doing it tomorrow at our next appointment. We also taught another one of our progressing investigators on Sat. Last week we had set it up to meet and teach her at the church (we haven't been able to get her to come yet, so we thought that if we showed her around she'd be more willing to come). Well anyway, I mentioned that youth conference was last weekend too. We didn't realize that, until the stake pres. texted us while we were at another appointment and told us that she had got there early and that the youth conference dance was there! Well, we rush over there and as soon as I open the doors to the church this loud booming was going on! So our plan didn't go quite like we wanted but we took her into some of the stake offices, where it was a little quieter, and taught our lesson. It turns out that she was really glad that the building was loud and crazy because the kids were off the streets. And although she didn't come on Sunday, it was still a really good lesson.
We were on Team ups with some other elders this week, I went with Elder Westfall in his area and that night a member came to work with us. Funny part of it was that his younger brother was in the MTC the same time that Elder Westfall and I were there. His younger brother was actually our "Zone leader" in the MTC and we knew him pretty well. It was really neat to find out how he was doing.
Today, we're going downtown to go to the City Museum. From what I hear its a big playground with tunnels and crazy stuff to just mess around. We're going with four other elders so that'll be fun.
Mom-I'll call Columbia and ask about the letter. I have a birthday card for Josh, its been sitting on my desk for about a week now. Ill try to get it off today, just so you know that I didn't forget.
Dad-The summer is definitly starting. The heat alone isn't too bad but the humidity just kills you. Luckily enough people around here practice what they preach and are wonderfull Christians and give us water and stuff, even it they shut the door on us. We got our car back too, still not fixed, but right now we'll take it. I was just talking to Pres. Briggs about how we can always do more and whatever we do isnt good enough. That is why his council to relax and live life was so great. All we can do is the best we can and then through the Atonement everything else will fall into place.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
It was a vey fun week where we were able to hit the road and teach a lot of people. Not much has come from it yet but we have some great potentials. We have a baptism this week, that we are really looking forward to. She's the 18 year old, I don't remember if I told you about her or not. But anyway she and her 14 year old sister both went to youth conference this past weekend and really liked it. We are wanting to baptize her sister as well but we havent brought it up yet. We are planning on doing it tomorrow at our next appointment. We also taught another one of our progressing investigators on Sat. Last week we had set it up to meet and teach her at the church (we haven't been able to get her to come yet, so we thought that if we showed her around she'd be more willing to come). Well anyway, I mentioned that youth conference was last weekend too. We didn't realize that, until the stake pres. texted us while we were at another appointment and told us that she had got there early and that the youth conference dance was there! Well, we rush over there and as soon as I open the doors to the church this loud booming was going on! So our plan didn't go quite like we wanted but we took her into some of the stake offices, where it was a little quieter, and taught our lesson. It turns out that she was really glad that the building was loud and crazy because the kids were off the streets. And although she didn't come on Sunday, it was still a really good lesson.
We were on Team ups with some other elders this week, I went with Elder Westfall in his area and that night a member came to work with us. Funny part of it was that his younger brother was in the MTC the same time that Elder Westfall and I were there. His younger brother was actually our "Zone leader" in the MTC and we knew him pretty well. It was really neat to find out how he was doing.
Today, we're going downtown to go to the City Museum. From what I hear its a big playground with tunnels and crazy stuff to just mess around. We're going with four other elders so that'll be fun.
Mom-I'll call Columbia and ask about the letter. I have a birthday card for Josh, its been sitting on my desk for about a week now. Ill try to get it off today, just so you know that I didn't forget.
Dad-The summer is definitly starting. The heat alone isn't too bad but the humidity just kills you. Luckily enough people around here practice what they preach and are wonderfull Christians and give us water and stuff, even it they shut the door on us. We got our car back too, still not fixed, but right now we'll take it. I was just talking to Pres. Briggs about how we can always do more and whatever we do isnt good enough. That is why his council to relax and live life was so great. All we can do is the best we can and then through the Atonement everything else will fall into place.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Monday, June 14, 2010
Adjusting to a New Area
Its been another great week in Oakville!
We had a fun week. I finally got to meet the rest of our investigators this week. Its nice to finally put a face to the name and know who I'm talking about. Our car was leaking for about a week and we were not sure what it was. We couldn't smell anything but we thought that it was gas because we were having to fill up really fast. Anyway, the other day Elder Jenkins decides to "taste" it. We were right. So we take it into the dealership, it is still under warrenty, but they weren't very helpful or friendly. The guys I talked to said that the shop was closed and pretty much told us to leave. So we call the roadside assistance people and they tell us to just drop it off at the dealership and that they'll take care of it. We drive to another dealer and drop it off. However, we had no way to get back home. Finally some other Elders answered and picked us up. Then we get a call today from the dealership and they tell me that they couldnt find anything! I told them what was wrong with it again and they said that they'd take another look. So to make a long story shorter, we haven't had a car all weekend and are having to bum rides from the Bankheads. Only problem is, that tonight is FHE and we have multiple appointments and a funeral to be at. Oh well, it'll all work out.
The people we're teaching are great and we re-set a baptismal date with a young women the other day for the 26th. She is Bosnian/gypsy. There are a lot of Bosnian/gypsy people here. She also has a younger sister that we are trying to teach more regularly. We're also teaching an older lady who is very smart and accepts the Book of Mormon and everything but has an old family tradition of following the beliefs of a church but never joining. We're making a lot of headway though and will hopefully be setting a date in the near future.
Zone Conference is on Wed. It'll be the Brigg's last one. They leave on the first and the Clarks come in right after them. We had our last interviews this past week. In it he told me to "relax and live life." We were talking about not dwelling on what we could've done but looking forward. He mentioned how he can discipline a missionary sternly but then afterwards still consider him for leadership, not looking at the past. It was great advice.
Mom-Droping off those picture of Elder Adams wasnt weird at all. Its fun when that happens. When I was with Elder Nelson there was a family who were going to Bosie and they went to lunch with his family. It made his week.
Dad-I was reading in the war chapters of Alma and it mentioned that even with all the wars and contention among the people, it said how happy they were. It was interesting to think about how dispite their/our hardships we can still be "happy."
Anyway, we will be moving at the end of the month (we're actually going to Bro Bankhead's parents, the Bankheads, haha). I think it'll be on July 2 or something, just a heads up.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
We had a fun week. I finally got to meet the rest of our investigators this week. Its nice to finally put a face to the name and know who I'm talking about. Our car was leaking for about a week and we were not sure what it was. We couldn't smell anything but we thought that it was gas because we were having to fill up really fast. Anyway, the other day Elder Jenkins decides to "taste" it. We were right. So we take it into the dealership, it is still under warrenty, but they weren't very helpful or friendly. The guys I talked to said that the shop was closed and pretty much told us to leave. So we call the roadside assistance people and they tell us to just drop it off at the dealership and that they'll take care of it. We drive to another dealer and drop it off. However, we had no way to get back home. Finally some other Elders answered and picked us up. Then we get a call today from the dealership and they tell me that they couldnt find anything! I told them what was wrong with it again and they said that they'd take another look. So to make a long story shorter, we haven't had a car all weekend and are having to bum rides from the Bankheads. Only problem is, that tonight is FHE and we have multiple appointments and a funeral to be at. Oh well, it'll all work out.
The people we're teaching are great and we re-set a baptismal date with a young women the other day for the 26th. She is Bosnian/gypsy. There are a lot of Bosnian/gypsy people here. She also has a younger sister that we are trying to teach more regularly. We're also teaching an older lady who is very smart and accepts the Book of Mormon and everything but has an old family tradition of following the beliefs of a church but never joining. We're making a lot of headway though and will hopefully be setting a date in the near future.
Zone Conference is on Wed. It'll be the Brigg's last one. They leave on the first and the Clarks come in right after them. We had our last interviews this past week. In it he told me to "relax and live life." We were talking about not dwelling on what we could've done but looking forward. He mentioned how he can discipline a missionary sternly but then afterwards still consider him for leadership, not looking at the past. It was great advice.
Mom-Droping off those picture of Elder Adams wasnt weird at all. Its fun when that happens. When I was with Elder Nelson there was a family who were going to Bosie and they went to lunch with his family. It made his week.
Dad-I was reading in the war chapters of Alma and it mentioned that even with all the wars and contention among the people, it said how happy they were. It was interesting to think about how dispite their/our hardships we can still be "happy."
Anyway, we will be moving at the end of the month (we're actually going to Bro Bankhead's parents, the Bankheads, haha). I think it'll be on July 2 or something, just a heads up.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Oakville
Its been another great week in Oakville!
We've been running around all week. Our area was split in two, so there are four of us in the ward, and we've been trying to find them places to live, and get them all situated. But after a full weekend we were able to settle down. On Friday, we had our last Zone Leader Council with Pres. Briggs. It was really good and we were able to discuss a lot of things going on. Then when we got home we started to do our zone planning. About half way through it though, we got a call from Pres. Briggs. He said that there was a big scouting thing going on at Forest Park (I think its the biggest park in the country, even bigger than the one in NY) and that he needed all the Elders in the zone to be there to volunteer. You can imagine the pain that caused. Everyone having to cancel appointments and so on. After a lot of stressing and worrying about it though it went really well and everyone got there.
So Oakville is a lot like Chesterfield. We live with the Bankheads. They have three sons, Christian (18), and Samuel and Spencer (15, twins). Bro. Bankhead is an Orthodontist and has 6+ offices. Needless to say, we live in a really nice place. Christian is really neat though, he comes down and hangs with us when we're home.
Since the area got split, all of the people that were being taught in the ward are on the other side of our line. So we are going to be doing a lot of finding, luckily I've been doing that for 13 months. You'd think that by now I'd be good at it or something, guess not. The other two elders in our ward are great though. Elder Ipsen has been a Zone Leader for about a year before he came here and his companion, Elder Hendricks, is fresh from the MTC. They're both great though and fun to serve around.
Dad-there are ten companionships in the Zone, so a little smaller than Columbia. Geography wise, we are really small. most of the areas are 20ish minutes away so not too much driving.
Josh-sounds like a lot of fun and a good way to end the year.
Anyway love you lots,
Elder Egan
We've been running around all week. Our area was split in two, so there are four of us in the ward, and we've been trying to find them places to live, and get them all situated. But after a full weekend we were able to settle down. On Friday, we had our last Zone Leader Council with Pres. Briggs. It was really good and we were able to discuss a lot of things going on. Then when we got home we started to do our zone planning. About half way through it though, we got a call from Pres. Briggs. He said that there was a big scouting thing going on at Forest Park (I think its the biggest park in the country, even bigger than the one in NY) and that he needed all the Elders in the zone to be there to volunteer. You can imagine the pain that caused. Everyone having to cancel appointments and so on. After a lot of stressing and worrying about it though it went really well and everyone got there.
So Oakville is a lot like Chesterfield. We live with the Bankheads. They have three sons, Christian (18), and Samuel and Spencer (15, twins). Bro. Bankhead is an Orthodontist and has 6+ offices. Needless to say, we live in a really nice place. Christian is really neat though, he comes down and hangs with us when we're home.
Since the area got split, all of the people that were being taught in the ward are on the other side of our line. So we are going to be doing a lot of finding, luckily I've been doing that for 13 months. You'd think that by now I'd be good at it or something, guess not. The other two elders in our ward are great though. Elder Ipsen has been a Zone Leader for about a year before he came here and his companion, Elder Hendricks, is fresh from the MTC. They're both great though and fun to serve around.
Dad-there are ten companionships in the Zone, so a little smaller than Columbia. Geography wise, we are really small. most of the areas are 20ish minutes away so not too much driving.
Josh-sounds like a lot of fun and a good way to end the year.
Anyway love you lots,
Elder Egan
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Transfer Day
Some pictures we received recently
It was another great week in Columbia!
Transfer calls came. I'm headed back to St. Louis. I'll be in the south stake this time though. I'll be serving with Elder Jenkins. (He was my District Leader when I first came out. What's even funnier is that he was Elder Hoggs companion at that time). I'm really sad to leave here though. I was pretty upset when the call came because I didnt feel that my work was done here. I didn't sleep very well sunday night because of it. So in the morning I called and talked to Pres. Briggs about it. He told me that he was planning to leave me here for another transfer but there was a situation that came up in the south zone and was impressed that that's where I needed to go. After talking with him I felt much better about it and am looking forward to it, sorta. It'll be a new experience for sure.
Other than that our week was all over the place. We had to get new tires on the car which took a lot of time. Then over the weekend the AC in our appartment went out. Of course the landlord isn't in the office over the weekend so we have to endure it. It was 85+ in there. Then someone finally came on Monday. But they fixed everything but the AC! We were not in a good mood. Then when they did fix it, it took another day or so to finally cool off. We're still alive though.
Mom-yeah, Sis. Rider was in my district. I don't know what she's talking about though. Elder Nelson and I would always play the piano, while they were in the back laughing at us. But yeah, Elder Nelson is also from that same area. They knew each other in High School. Then along with that Elder Hogg is from that area too. I've had alot of companions from the Boise area. On of our recent converts was wanting to know how to get the Church History Books. I tried finding them but couldn't. How do you get them?
Dad-Ive been thinking alot about teaching with power and authority lately. Then on Sunday there was a talk about preisthood power and how it is service. Then I started rephrasing my thoughts to teaching with service and authority. I've been meaning to study more on it but my studies have been interupted lately with the transfer. I just thought that it was an interesting way of looking at it.
Anyway
love you lots,
Elder Egan
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Another Busy Week
Its been another great week in Columbia!
We had another busy week, but this time, unlike most others, we were actually busy working our own area. We went tracting just about every day and talked to lots of people. It was fun getting out again. We had a really good lesson last night. The bishops daughter is dating a nonmember, so they invited us to "drop by" last night when he was over. We taught the "cups" lesson last night which teach the first and third lessons. The spirit was really strong there and both Elder Hogg and I testified strongly of the truthfulness of what we'd taught. It was a great way to end the night.
Transfers are this coming Sunday, not sure what'll happen. I'm hoping for one more though.
Mom-yes I got the money, thanks. Tell Gideon and Trevor congrats for me.
Dad-sounds like conference was good there too.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
We had another busy week, but this time, unlike most others, we were actually busy working our own area. We went tracting just about every day and talked to lots of people. It was fun getting out again. We had a really good lesson last night. The bishops daughter is dating a nonmember, so they invited us to "drop by" last night when he was over. We taught the "cups" lesson last night which teach the first and third lessons. The spirit was really strong there and both Elder Hogg and I testified strongly of the truthfulness of what we'd taught. It was a great way to end the night.
Transfers are this coming Sunday, not sure what'll happen. I'm hoping for one more though.
Mom-yes I got the money, thanks. Tell Gideon and Trevor congrats for me.
Dad-sounds like conference was good there too.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
Friday, May 21, 2010
Great Conference Weekend
Recent Zone leader Conference
One year mark burning shirt and tie April 29,2010
Its been another great week in Columbia!
This weekend was one of the best ever. Elder Richard G. Scott was in town to reorganize the Stake Presidency. There was a YSA fireside Friday night that we were invited to. It was a question and answer session. Obviously there were a lot of questions on dating and what not (knowledge that I can store away for now) but good advice all together. Afterwards he shook everyones hand. He is suprisingly really short but when he looked into my eyes it was full of warmth and love, it was really a great thing. Then on Sat we went to the adult session. Once again it was a very powerful experience. He spoke a lot about his wife, who died 15 years ago on the day. It was very touching. Sunday was probably the longest one but well worth it all. After announcing the new Stake Presidency and when everyone was done talking (both the stake pres, Pres. Houseman and the 1st counciler, Pres. Mingus are in our ward. Pres. Mingus was the stake high councilmen over missionary work, so we met with him every week, and we are teaching a couple in the Pres. Housemans home) Elder Scott bore a very powerful testimony of the reality and divinity of Christ. In brief he said, "I can testify of Christ because I KNOW Him." He bore testimony in every session but Sundays just hit it home. Elder Lawerence of the 2nd quorm of 70 was also there. He gave just as good insights and remarks. He talked about how we dont have to go to the Holy Land to walk where Jesus walked, speaking about how we need to go to the Temple as often as we can. I thought it was a great reminder that the Temple is truly the Lords house.
Other than that we had another crazy busy week. We were on team ups with the Jeff City Elders again on Thursday (they live about an hour south of us) when we get a phone call from the assistants telling us that we need to be in St. Louis on Friday! We were really tired with all the driving and not being able to be home for more that a couple hours. We got alot of good council from Pres. Briggs and we talked a little about the change in Mission Pres. and Mission boundaries. It'll be an interesting July, thats for sure.
Mom-no the flash floods haven't really hit. We did get some amazing thunder storms. I'd live out here just for that reason alone. Its been wet all week but nothing too bad.
Dad-that's too bad to hear about Lyle. Is his wife still going to live there or are they going to sell the house?
Anyway,
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
I'm confused!! I thought I was in Missouri???
One year mark burning shirt and tie April 29,2010
Its been another great week in Columbia!
This weekend was one of the best ever. Elder Richard G. Scott was in town to reorganize the Stake Presidency. There was a YSA fireside Friday night that we were invited to. It was a question and answer session. Obviously there were a lot of questions on dating and what not (knowledge that I can store away for now) but good advice all together. Afterwards he shook everyones hand. He is suprisingly really short but when he looked into my eyes it was full of warmth and love, it was really a great thing. Then on Sat we went to the adult session. Once again it was a very powerful experience. He spoke a lot about his wife, who died 15 years ago on the day. It was very touching. Sunday was probably the longest one but well worth it all. After announcing the new Stake Presidency and when everyone was done talking (both the stake pres, Pres. Houseman and the 1st counciler, Pres. Mingus are in our ward. Pres. Mingus was the stake high councilmen over missionary work, so we met with him every week, and we are teaching a couple in the Pres. Housemans home) Elder Scott bore a very powerful testimony of the reality and divinity of Christ. In brief he said, "I can testify of Christ because I KNOW Him." He bore testimony in every session but Sundays just hit it home. Elder Lawerence of the 2nd quorm of 70 was also there. He gave just as good insights and remarks. He talked about how we dont have to go to the Holy Land to walk where Jesus walked, speaking about how we need to go to the Temple as often as we can. I thought it was a great reminder that the Temple is truly the Lords house.
Other than that we had another crazy busy week. We were on team ups with the Jeff City Elders again on Thursday (they live about an hour south of us) when we get a phone call from the assistants telling us that we need to be in St. Louis on Friday! We were really tired with all the driving and not being able to be home for more that a couple hours. We got alot of good council from Pres. Briggs and we talked a little about the change in Mission Pres. and Mission boundaries. It'll be an interesting July, thats for sure.
Mom-no the flash floods haven't really hit. We did get some amazing thunder storms. I'd live out here just for that reason alone. Its been wet all week but nothing too bad.
Dad-that's too bad to hear about Lyle. Is his wife still going to live there or are they going to sell the house?
Anyway,
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
I'm confused!! I thought I was in Missouri???
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Busy Week....But Not Much Happening
Its been another great week in Columbia!
We were in St. Louis for most of the week. We had transfers on Wed. so we drove up tues night. Then we stayed the night again Wed because we had a meeting at the mission home Thurs. That went most of the day and so we didn't get back home til about five or six on Thursday. Then friday we had to plan most of the day. With all that, we didn't get too much work done. It was good nonetheless. Thing is, Elder Hogg got food poisoning in his last area and hasn't been able to eat much since. We're excited about this new transfer though.
Then we had a meeting with all the District leaders last night. It went well. And we came up with some good ideas on how to help the zone out.
Mom-yes I got the packages and every thing was in one peice. Thanks. The weather has been really wet. A lot of the roads have been flooded. It's all good now though. Don't worry about the backpack. It's not worth the hassle.
Dad-I'm not really training my comp. he's been out longer than me. All I have to do is show him the ropes of being a zone leader. Nothing too much different than normal, just more meetings.
Anyway, not too much happened this week.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
We were in St. Louis for most of the week. We had transfers on Wed. so we drove up tues night. Then we stayed the night again Wed because we had a meeting at the mission home Thurs. That went most of the day and so we didn't get back home til about five or six on Thursday. Then friday we had to plan most of the day. With all that, we didn't get too much work done. It was good nonetheless. Thing is, Elder Hogg got food poisoning in his last area and hasn't been able to eat much since. We're excited about this new transfer though.
Then we had a meeting with all the District leaders last night. It went well. And we came up with some good ideas on how to help the zone out.
Mom-yes I got the packages and every thing was in one peice. Thanks. The weather has been really wet. A lot of the roads have been flooded. It's all good now though. Don't worry about the backpack. It's not worth the hassle.
Dad-I'm not really training my comp. he's been out longer than me. All I have to do is show him the ropes of being a zone leader. Nothing too much different than normal, just more meetings.
Anyway, not too much happened this week.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
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