Life with the Carters

D.A.R.E. Graduation

2011-12-13T11:14:00.004-07:00

I attended Dawson's DARE graduation today. They had several speakers then honored the kids whose essays were chosen as best. The mayor, the chief of police, their DARE officer, Miss Rodeo Ogden and the principal, Dr. Pead all spoke. The kids ended by singing a song - Hot to Not- before receiving their diplomas. Each of them earned their DARE shirt!

Dawson gets his Arrow of Light!

2011-11-16T09:58:00.006-07:00

Dawson received his Arrow of Light with two other cub scouts.
Will, Dawson and Candice.
Dawson loves cub scouts and received his Webelo as well as several other pins at the pack meeting last night. It was a nice program and we are very proud of our cub scout!
(Not sure who the little girl is in the picture - she was bouncing around through the program.)

Handcart Days Half Marathon

2011-08-08T16:36:00.006-06:00

No, I didn't run a half marathon, Cory did! He trained for a couple of months and ran in Bountiful's Handcart Days Half Marathon. Here are pictures . . .

Cory's the one with the long curly locks and moustache. I thought he would be more aerodynamic with short hair, but my opinion doesn't count much. He came in 4th place for his age which, I thought, was pretty good for his first time in a race that long. He ran with one of his friends, Caitlin Duncan.

Brynlee Blessing Day

2011-07-11T08:55:00.003-06:00

Stephanie decided to have Brynlee blessed at the sacrament meeting where Cammie reported her mission. Cammie returned from Croatia the evening of July 4th and we had a great airport reunion. Lots of family came to hear Cammie and it seemed a good time to have Brynlee blessed while so many family members were in attendance. Terry gave Brynlee a beautiful blessing and even got the name right - Brynlee Ava Carter lol! We were able to have Terry's niece, Erin, and her family come as well. What a fun day!

That beautiful dress was made by my aunt Shayla. She is an amazing seamstress!!! We are so lucky!

More pictures of Brynlee

2011-07-01T15:28:00.007-06:00

Brynlee Ava Carter

2011-05-04T16:07:00.006-06:00

This little girl tried to share a birthday with me, but didn't quite make it. She was born April 16th at 1:04 a.m. The big surprise was that she weighed 10 lb. 6 oz. and measure 21 3/4 inches long. Stephanie had to undergo a C-section to give birth to this sweetheart. Brynlee was in the NICU for several days to watch her lungs and blood sugar as well as making sure there was no infection. Stephanie had to stay in the hospital for a few days because of the surgery so it worked out that they both came home the same day! Here are some pictures:

New Doors and Flooring

2011-03-11T11:18:00.014-07:00

Here are pictures of our wood floor, the new french doors and some of the carpet.
We have slowly started moving furniture back in. Terry is enjoying the openness of little or no furniture, but definitely wants the cable hooked back in to his big t.v.! Love the looks of the wood flooring and the carpet is a nice espresso color. Better than the taupe that looked more pink than tan carpet we had previously!

One thing after another!

2011-02-28T19:26:00.005-07:00

So Stephanie is expecting a baby girl in April. Candice and I are throwing her a shower this Saturday. That wouldn't be such a big deal, but we decided a few months ago to replace our linoleum and some of the carpet. When we finally found someone to do the work and decided on the flooring we wanted, we put down a deposit and waited for a phone call saying the wood and carpet were in. When that call came, we scheduled the flooring guys to come. They pulled out the linoleum and could see water damage by the french doors and would not lay the wood until that was fixed. Which meant getting a new patio door! Nothing like unexpected expenditures. So on Valentine's evening we were at Home Depot looking for doors. We ended up using the local guys to install the door which took place the following Wednesday. Terry sanded and painted over the weekend and the guys were back today to work on the floor. The guy said it would probably be finished by Wednesday and we can have the carpet done as soon as they are finished. (Cross your fingers!)

Back to the baby shower. It's this Saturday! If any of you have done remodeling you will understand that we are in a state of messiness! Sheets covering everything we don't want covered in dust from the work and lots of other things in every single ounce of space not being remodeled! Hopefully it can all be done before Saturday and we can put a few of the things back in place.

I'll post some pictures when we get back to normal!

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-12-02T10:13:00.002-07:00

We try to take a family photo each Thanksgiving. Left to right: Cory, Candice, Kayleen and Dawson, Terry, Stephanie. Thanks for getting a good shot of us, Andy!

Grandma Bodily

2010-08-25T16:24:00.003-06:00

This is a picture of my dad, grandma, and mom the last time Grandma came to visit. This was about two years ago. My grandma was finally reunited with her husband this morning. Her children had been taking turns caring for her at home for the last couple of months. She was 93 years old. I took a turn staying with Grandma and we reminisced about all the fun things I could remember her doing for us grandkids when we were young. She had a spook alley at her house for Halloween, an Easter Egg hunt that we always looked forward to and a small pond in her yard with goldfish. She also raised fish (guppies) to sale to Grand Central (where she worked). So many fun memories of Grandma. Mustn't forget her playing spoons with us at the holiday table! She was very competitive!!!! I'm glad her suffering is over, but there is a void that will be filled with all these fond memories. Good-bye Grandma and much love and thankfulness for all you have shared with me!

Pictures from San Francisco 2010

2010-07-28T14:10:00.009-06:00

Our first dining experience in Oakland at Francesco's. Look at that pasta!!!!

Dinner at the Stinking Rose (Connie, Sharon) Kayleen, Mom

View from top of Macy's Department Store - notice Saks Fifth Avenue and Tiffany & Co.

Ghirardelli Square

View from Fisherman's Wharf

Mom, Sherice, Sharon, Alecia

at the Orpheum Theater to see Wicked

Mom, Sherice and Kayleen

Connie was picking up the tickets and we forgot to include her in this picture. Sorry, Connie!

San Francisco Sisters Trip 2010

2010-07-27T16:40:00.004-06:00

Six girls together in San Francisco - scary! Not really, but we know how to have fun!!!!! The first night there we saw Wicked. AMAZING!!!! A definite must see.

We went to Union Square then Ghirardelli Square and Fisherman's Wharf, incluing Pier 39! Connie and I were taking the bags to the hotel after shopping at Union Square and met the rest of the girls at Pier 39. They were able to catch a trolley and we headed to to the hotel. We caught the trolley not far from our hotel, but it was only three blocks to the end of the line so we walked and walked and walked the rest of the way to Ghirardelli Square. Of course, you have to have a hot fudge sundae if you are at Ghirardelli Square, so Connie and I put our feet up and shared an amazing treat. As we proceeded down Beach Street we noticed a silver man. I'm not kidding. His face and hands were silver, his hair was silver, his clothing was silver. Even the boombox he was using was silver. There were people standing in a line to take pictures with him (for a small fee, of course). We passed on that, but noticed a guy who was inside a garbage can! He was making all kinds of noise and waving his hands. We laughed as we walked by that one, then all of a sudden this tree jumps toward Connie and she screams! Actually, it was a guy holding a huge tree limb with lots of leaves and as some unsuspecting soul walks by, he jumps up at them to scare them! Well, it worked and the people across the street cheered and clapped. Funny part of all this, I didn't jump or scream or anything. For those of you who know me at all you know I jump at the tiniest thing. Connie just kept saying, "I knew he was there. How did that happen?" She thought she should take a bow for providing their entertainment.

We did some shopping at the outlets in Vacaville and loved the Jelly Belly Store where we bought Belly Flops. The factory wasn't running on Saturday or we would have gone through to see how they are made, but we watched the video at the store. We ate at a fabulous Italian restaurant in Little Italy - "The Stinking Rose"!!! Yes, they believe in serving food with their garlic! Not a place for vampires, but the food was wonderful. We each shared our plates with each other so we tried prime rib, halibut, salmon, and a pasta dish. I would recommend this restaurant when you visit San Francisco!
Here is a picture of the restaurant. I'll post some other photos when I can.

Fishing

2010-07-13T17:29:00.003-06:00

Cory took Dawson fishing and these are what they caught. Dawson was so excited. He's having fun now that Cory's home and can do things with him.

Photos of a cathedral in Mexico City

2010-04-02T16:20:00.005-06:00

I just can't seem to get the pictures together on the blog. Sorry. I can't believe how ornate this building is and everything is in gold!

A couple of pics from Mexico City

2010-04-02T16:05:00.007-06:00

Cory's friend, Mauro, picked us up at our hotel and took us to Teotihuacan. There are several pyramids and amazing artwork for that time period.

Pictures from Trip to Mexico

2010-04-02T12:04:00.004-06:00

This is the Castelan family minus their two older daughters.

They drove us to all the wards we attended on Sunday as well as the baptism and friends Cory had made at the beginning of his mission. What a wonderful family! We really miss them and look forward to seeing them again (two years from now or sooner)!

Some photos from the airport and Sunday

2010-03-16T15:19:00.013-06:00

We finally got through customs and came out and I could hear Dawson yell, "Cory!" He ran up to him and jumped in his arms. That was sweet!!! After a long day, it was nice to come home where we understood what people said and we actually knew which direction to go (thanks to the mountains)!

Cory's report in sacrament meeting went very well and we had people come to visit afterwards. It was a GREAT day! Glad he is home safe and sound [well maybe just safe ;)]!!!

Our Missionary is Home!!!!

2010-03-05T08:45:00.002-07:00

On Tuesday, February 23rd, Terry and I flew to Mexico City arriving there about 2:30 p.m. We were supposed to be met by a driver, but no one was there so we bought a phone card and had a gentleman help us call the numbers I had for the hotel. They sent a car (it was about 4 p.m. by this time) and we arrived at the hotel and checked in. Of course the voucher I had for the car wasn't valid with this so we had to pay for the ride. What I didn't realize was $500 pesos was an outrageous amount for that short ride. I was happy to finally be at the hotel. We called several numbers to let Cory know we had arrived. We were unable to reach him and left messages. Terry and I walk around the area by our hotel to find somewhere to eat and then get back and settled a bit. It's about 9 p.m. and Terry is ready for bed. I sat up and read for an hour and half before deciding I should get some sleep. I turned out the light and just about fell asleep when the phone rang. I answer it (Terry is startled and think it is the post office calling him to come in early) and the voice on the other end says we heard there were some Americans in a Mexican hotel. I ask if it's Cory and it is. Then I ask where he is and he tells me he is downstairs and we need to come get him and his stuff so these other Elders can get back to the mission home. Needless to say, I was up and dressed and Terry is still wondering what is going on. He says to me you can't go without me. We are on the 5th floor of the hotel and as we get to the elevator, Terry tells me to wait while he goes down the stairs. I gave him some time, then called the elevator and went to the lobby. As I walked toward the front desk I could see three young men seated on a sofa with their backs to me. I ran over in front of them and Cory stood up and I just hugged him and let go, then hugged him again. It was sooooo good to see him. We talked with the other Elders for a minute and then went out to the huge van to get Cory's things. I forgot how big his suitcases were and they were stuffed! He also had three boxes and his backpack. The doorman was surprised at all we were bringing in and the bellman who took it upstairs was even more surprised!
The room is full of suitcases now!!!!! What a wonderful day it was and just the beginning of our adventure in Mexico!

Message from Mexico 2-9-2010

2010-02-09T14:16:00.005-07:00

Wow that's cool the missionaries stopped by the house. E actually had a few investigators in church this week and we're looking to put a baptismal date with them later this week! I do have a trip planned to go to some Pyramids and I wanna visit at least a few people in each of my areas and go to maybe two or three wards on sunday . . . we'll have to see how that works. You'll probably want to bring two pairs of sneekers for the rain, if it rains it's not fun to walk around in wet shoes.
Love you tons Mom Say hi to the ward family and dawson for me!

Making Tamales

Final Companero (Elder Robertson):

News from Cory 1-25-10

2010-01-25T15:49:00.002-07:00

We are working super hard and getting lots of work done the members hare helping us out a ton. I think they all see that elder posada was dead (lazy) and that I still want to give it a go before i go hahaha as far as converts going through the temple I have a few that can but only in like six seven months or so. I won't be able to visit any before I go home
I heard elder Holland Twice while in the mission. Once in the mtc and the other time in the mtc in Mexico!!! It was pretty much the same talk the one that he has a video of the Don't go home talk which is cool but I be it's fun to hear some new stuff!! I'm working super hard here with my compe we are tearing this place up!!!

The Final Weeks

2010-01-21T11:47:00.002-07:00

I wrote to Cory about how his serving a mission had affected me to this point. There are many people I work with who have missionaries out and we have become quite the club. The people in our ward ask about Cory all the time and can't believe he is close to coming home. I also have a gal in our ward who has been trying to teach me Spanish each week. I have become good friends with her as well and her son left last summer for his mission in Missouri so we are always talking about our boys. Anyway, this is his email back:

(CORY)glad to hear that you've made some more and better friendships!!! Always glad to hear that i've had a good influence or effect in your life. I've seen myself grow up catch myself in nieveness learn a new language meet many new ppl and have the joy of bringing happiness into other ppl lifes. I'm glad i've made it as far as I have and set a good example for those that come after me.

(KAYLEEN) We had a neighbor from our old house pass away the first part of January and I told a little about her funeral.

(CORY) Sounds like ruth was a very treasured person to the people that surrounded her. It's good to look back on the past of those that have impacted our lives sometimes it's hard to remember things that have happened but the memories is what helps us move on in life.
Sounds like fran and Cammie are doing awesome! I really can't believe that Fran will be home so fast that is super crazy!!! (Fran and Cammie are Cory's cousins who are serving LDS missions, too. Fran is in Australia and should be home this summer and Cammie is in the MTC getting ready to go to Croatia.)
My companion Elder Robertson is 5'10 weighs 150 has read hair and ten months in the mission he is from orem utah has been in chalco and valle de chalco in two other areas his first comp or "dad" was my last comp he enjoys rock climbing. we get along rather well and are trying to get the best work done that we can. luvs

Christmas Phone Call

2009-12-30T10:55:00.002-07:00

We just love talking with Cory on Christmas. It makes for the best holiday gift ever!!! He played the guitar and sang songs for us, some in English and some in Spanish. He sounded absolutely wonderful. He was at a member's home when we called him and there was a parrot next door that kept making noises as he played the guitar. That morning he and his companion were playing futbal and had a great time. He thinks he would like to play on a team when he comes home. Cory is in a new area, Tlalpan, which he is enjoying. The Lord has blessed him so much and in just a couple of months he will be home!

Cory's Latest Email

2009-12-21T20:43:00.001-07:00

Haha I think there is more smog and haze or all that nasty air contaminated stuff here in mexico but the whole no sun thing is killing me especially my having a great tan when I get home idea... oh well. We had a christmas party aka Posada on saturday. They sang and danced some Blue Canary song.... super wierd not sure what it had to do with christmas.... anyways!!!! hahaha A missionary returned back to our mission to marry a girl from his old area.... MY AREA.... we went to the reception for food super AWKWARD AND WIERD!!!! I think he has a name but all i could remember was Elder Chavez....
Wow Casey is almost gone. I`m happy for him glad to see that he made up his mind and decided to go through with the mission. I always wanted to go to Africa but I guess he beat me to it. I bet grandpa would love to talk to him because he`ll be going into Johannesburg...
That`s crazy to think i`m the next one coming home I know a few guys that should be coming back home a little after me and TONS AND TONS that will leave just after I get home too. Haha Not sure how excited I am to Talk in a bunch of sacrament meetings especially when I don`t know half of my ward.... lol Lots of changes.... I guess it`ll be a good way to get to know ppl. I really hope they don`t have me talk in the singles ward though.... ugh
Right now we don`t live with any members however a member used to live in the house right next to us... I don`t think that counts for anything. My area has some poor parts and some wealthier parts but nothing to rich or too poor.
As far as numbers and times to call on christmas still not sure but i`ll try and inform you as I find out. Hope everything is well Love you tons!!!!!!! Elder Carter

Cory's News

2009-12-15T09:51:00.002-07:00

(My friend, Marie, recently passed away and had a Catholic service that we attended which I wrote Cory about.) The incenses in the special container yep definitly have seen those ALOT!!! I think the catholic church back home is better than the catholic church hear but in the end they are all just churchs ran by men and their thoughts.

Wow sounds like some fun holidays and especially with all the snow!!! Glad to hear that there is a chance for me to see snow when I get home maybe even do some ice fishing. Also don't know if you could help me out with a question. I wanna donate blood when I get back, but I don't know that if being here in mexico would brake a rule about that or not. . . Elder posada is pretty dead but I'll see what we can do. Love you tons and hope you have a great week definitly thinking about you.

What's Happening in Mexico

2009-12-08T10:54:00.002-07:00

That really is pretty hard about Marie and the principal. To help Maries family just let them know how you feel, share your testimony just a little bit, I'd say give them a plan of salvation pamphlet but I doubt you have one of those. We can all help her, when it's our time to leave I think having a friend she knows will help her alot! (My friend, Marie, was recently diagnosed with cancer and passed away Monday and the principal has been battling cancer for years and passed on Friday.)

Time is flying fast super super fast huh??? Elder Posada is from Monterrey, we are now working in a part of df (Distrito Federal) called Tlalpan it's kinda high in the mountains so i feel like park city alpine type of thing but it's kinda hard work lots of hills. My companion is so so...he leaves next change so hes not too excited to go to work...but oh well we moved houses just the other day that was kinda exhausting but now we're all set. We had stake conference on sunday along with the christmas conference later on in the night as well it was a really good sunday a great way to start off december!!! Love you tons Wish dawson A Late Happy Birthday for me!!!

News from Cory 11-30-09

2009-11-30T15:57:00.002-07:00

Sounds like thanksgiving went super awesome we ate tacos here hahaha they were really good but nothing compared to turkey for and turkey for me!!!! (He's making a play on the song that Adam Sandler sings) That's super awesome about cammie!!! I bet grandpa is super excited to have so many grandkids in the mission!
Dawson is growing up so fast!!! he is getting so big! I wonder if I've changed at all...appearance wise...I don't think so.
I'm getting changed to a new area I'll still be district leader to a different district. My new companion should go home next change he is mexican and is named Elder Posada... He isn't too far from my first area... we'll see if we have as much success there as here. I've had over twenty baptisms here...nine this month!!! Love you tons
Elder Carter

I'll just act like I didnt' hear anything about the COUGARS winning...cuz we all know that could never happen...hahaha Sounds like the missionaries back home are pretty into the work it really is kinda surprising especially because I had seen the elders back home like three times in my entire life before the mission!!!!
Sounds like Cammies farewell went great I kinda wish I was able to see the farewells of all the cousins...but I guess that isn't always possible...oh well at least I know from you guys that everything went great!! What time will our church start at when I get home??? Grandpa is getting to be a little old now isn't he. a 100 year old member died last saturday it was kinda a big thing... Be sure to say hi to all the family for me!!! Love you tons
Elder Carter

Missionary News 11-23-09

2009-11-24T09:27:00.002-07:00

We've had a great week!!! We taugh 50 lessons this week along with some baptisms and confirmations!!!woo woo!! We went to central today and ate some super chinese food!!! ahh and I've got a fun place for dad and I to buy some fun ties super cheap!!! I've been trying to think of all the fun stuff I wanna do when you guys get here. We will have a session in the temple here in december not sure if it'll be as a mission or what but I'm stoked!!!

The Continuing Saga . . .

2009-11-17T15:41:00.002-07:00

That's so awesome that davis is going to state once again!!!! Must be great for parker in his senior year!

This week we had three baptisms and one confirmation!!! we are super stoked! one of the baptisms Hector didn't show up to church on sundary so we still have two more confirmations we need to do!

Today we went and played basketball at the stake center with the youth because it's the revolution day so they didn't have to go to school or anything. We lost both of our games against them but we gave them a great look!!!

Sorry to hear about Kim I hope she is able to handle it well. (Kim is our neighbor and her mother passed away - her parents live in Pennsylvania so it has been difficult for her.) It's one of those things that you can never prepare yourselves for. Just knowing what happens after this life is the only preparation ... I hope she is doing good.

A Mexico Update

2009-11-10T10:19:00.003-07:00

Wow I guess parker is amazing and super loved. (Most of the family was at Parker's quarter final football game last Friday-Go DAVIS DARTS!) Yeah I got the package thanks a ton!! I won't need toothpaste when I get home! (Apparently I have sent toothpaste in most of the packages so he has a two year supply and then some.)
We're doing great and rocking up some baptisms for next week. If you wanna send me granola like the kind the church packs that'd be awesome!!! Thanks a ton mom I love you.
I found a member who is a taxi who said he would be more than willing to help us out with travel!!! (I think he means the member owns a taxi or is a taxi driver. We have made our reservations to go pick Cory up from Mexico and hoped we could find someone reliable to take us places.)

Mexico News from Cory

2009-11-03T08:31:00.002-07:00

you'll have to be there for cammie for me since I won't be able to...Sorry about the shortness just not a lot of time to write we have appointments love you tons and good luck with the call to the travel office :)

I wrote Cory about two baptisms in our ward this week - one was a little girl, almost nine and the other was a young father. This is his response:

that's funny we've had a few cases where they never got baptised till they were older gotta love those as a missionary!!! This week we had confirmed a boy and baptized a guy we're looking into haveing a few more this week or the next with a few unsure possibilities as well so we're pretty excited for the month of november!!

Update from Mexico City

2009-10-20T09:07:00.002-06:00

I`m thinking about maybe going on a sick diet when I get home after trying all the food that i`ve missed haha maybe some type of pure soup diet or something and lots of running and working out haha. Congrats for Dawson and his game Hes becoming a super all star at all the sports isn`t he!!!
I`d so love to have some type of scholarship money to go to school when I get home School is kinda exspensive but with as much extra money I can get it helps out right :) Sounds like your super busy!!!! with dawson your work then your side job and all that other fun fast stuff that you do!!! As far as packages thanks a ton mom!!!! I don`t think I`ll really want much of a christmas package this year especially because of the short time I`ll have left when I get it... However I can`t lie I loved the Peanut butter m &ms!!!! hahaha
Well I`m not moving I`ll be here for another six weeks. However I think Dad knows My new Companion Elder Benjamin Coles...!!! Hes from Woods cross and is friends with monica Stephs friend so we`ll see how that goes.
And as far as hotels hahah I think anywhere would be pretty good compared to where I have lived hahaha but whatever you decide is perfect!! Love you tons mom!!!
Terry and I are planning to go to Mexico City to pick Cory up and bring him home. I just want to be sure we stay in a safe place.

More Mexico News

2009-10-13T10:18:00.002-06:00

I asked about when his Visa expires so we would know how quickly he needs to get back to the US.

Alright Visa expiration date not entirely for sure i'll have to get back to you on that one. The mission office is pretty close to the Airport. Iztapalapa is a pretty ghetto area but that it's really poor not so much. It is a little harder because it is one of the biggest delegation in all of DF. (I had been told that Iztapalapa is the scariest part of Mexico City so I asked Cory about that.)

Yeah next week I will probably be changed to a new area. Right now we don't officially have anyone with a baptismal date the ones we had fell through so we are working to find new ones more than anything. we're feeling like we will be catching a pretty big break here in just a little bit . . . Tell Jordan I'm behind him. There is a little boy here in our area that got burned really really bad all of his right leg. But it looks like after his skin grafs he is doin better so I'm thinking Jordan will be ok.

Continuing Saga from Cory

2009-10-06T09:35:00.001-06:00

Yeah the time is going by super fast isn`t it!!! I can`t believe it`s already october either!!!! It seems like once you get into fall season time just goes by so much faster!!! Conference was super awesome!!!! but really really awesome! I loved all the talks they were all really interesting!
Things here are going pretty good we`re hunting out investigators so we can get them baptized!!!!

Short News Clip

2009-09-21T16:08:00.002-06:00

Don't really talk with the pres personally that much but I'll see what I can find out about you being able to come pick me up. WOW 32 YEARS!!! WOO WOO WOO that's super awesome Mom. If you guys do end up going to Idaho Say hi to everyone for me.

News from Cory

2009-09-14T22:07:00.002-06:00

Wow sounds like a crazy week back home! I'd love to be ther but I've got to get some ppl baptized here. Once again we married and baptized another family that makes nine and ten with elder richmond and I. We are really tearing this area up, we still have a few prospects but we've got to put this work into overdrive and haul out of september with tons of success!!!! Whenever you want to find some good mexican food when I get home you let me know I'll talk to find out some of the better areas and from there we'll find ourselves some real good mexican food! I've bought a few things from here, I'm kinda worried about going over the weight limit with my luggage so I haven't bought alot of stuff just yet, we'll have to see what I can find in this last little bit of time I've got left. Sounds like you are doing great and be sure to tell Beverly (a widow in the neighborhood and one of Terry's lawn customers) I said hi, she is a really nice lady and even as far away as she is now and how little of relationship we had she still is supporting me a ton while I'm out here I'm super greatful for everything!!! Love you so much dad be safe!

Latest News from Mexico

2009-09-08T16:25:00.002-06:00

I wrote Cory about the Davis High game on Friday against Weber. Of course, Davis won. Here's what he had to say:

Wow, that's way cool. Tell Parker I said great job!!! Things are going good here. I haven't got the package with the letter just yet but this week are the changes so they'll probably bring it to me. I didn't get changed nor did my companion. We had a baptism on Saturday just after marrying her and her husband!!! pretty crazy weekend!

We are contemplating going to Mexico to pick Cory up, but we need to find out what the mission president thinks about it. Here is what Cory wrote about it:

I guess we'll have to see what happens with pres and all that stuff who knows if he'll let us end on a vacation . . . jajaja

Glad to hear that everyon eis enjoying the little blogs you post of me you'll for sure have to hook me up with where cammie goes on the mission!!!! LOVE YOU TONS

News from Cory

2009-08-31T17:19:00.001-06:00

Wow sounds like you guys had tons of fun and like dawson is becoming the new allstar of the family he`ll probably end up being better at all the sports than I ever was as long as he can grow a little bit haha. Things are going really good here. This could be my last week with Elder Richmond I hope not cuz we get alot of work done here!!! We had another two baptisms on saturday and seven confirmations on sunday our ward is super stoked to see all the work we`ve been doing especially cuz no one really knew our converts... It`s all good though we`re going to have the stake president go on splits with us or teach a lesson with us this wednesday with some investigators who are for sure going to get married super cool!!!!

More News from the Missionary

2009-08-27T11:54:00.002-06:00

Yeah we had the baptisms how was the dedication? I`d love to have a little bom reading family program thing like that when I get back. I believe my companion remembers her too (Cammie's roommate) and if it is her tell Cammie to talk me up for her hahaha, No but Elder Richmond would like to have her E-mail so he can talk with her, he knows her from byu Idaho. Things are going good here, we might have another three baptisms this sunday or saturday we have to marry one of them first so we`ll see what happens right??? Love you tons mom and Tell Grandpa That I love him tons too and Am always thinking of him.

I told Cory about going to Lagoon and getting heat stroke. Here is what he wrote:
That sounds like some of the days I have here just not feeling to well I get heat stroke alot but not much I can do to prevent it. I guess I`ll just get use to it huh. lol Things are good here we had five baptisms this sunday for stake conference which was really awesome especially because we had a really great baptisimal program. I`ll try to send some pics here in just a little bit from the Volcanoe and the baptism. Love you tons mom If you can find some root beer barrels those would be great too!!!!

Mexico Missionary News

2009-08-18T12:09:00.002-06:00

The camera I had along with the one you sent me don't work well with the rechargable batteries I have everything else that I have works fine but the camera doesn't. Wow sounds like everyone has grown up a ton to tell ya the truth I didn't even know that Jenny had two kids but thats some good news. Sounds like things are good back on the farm, not sure what's up with all the buying husbands cars for fathers day, hope I can become that good of a father! haha Things are going good here not alot of new news, we may have up to five baptisms this week I'm not thinking they'll all fall through but it could happen right??? hahaha Haven't got much guitar time in so it's kinda like a big pause right now especially with the lack of sleeping time we have, I usually get in about 5-6 hours a night. Kohl's is a great store isnt it!!!(Our school district had a child spree where donations were made for students to shop at Kohl's with a volunteer and I told Cory about it since I was one of the volunteers.) I miss going shopping for normal clothes and being able to wear them, we don't wear normal clothes on mondays anymore we wear our church clothes seven days a week! Right now I haven't had lots of time to read in the bible like I want to but I am reading it in spanish hoping to finish it along with the triple before I get home we'll see what happens. Love you tons mom thanks for everything!!!

Mexico Missionary News

2009-08-11T14:42:00.002-06:00

Now that my comp is from SD California I have some hookups from back there!!!! My comp has been out for about 11 months. We live in a separate apartment on the first floor of a member's house. Today we hiked up a sick volcano so hopefully if my comp can hook me up with pics I'll send you some. If you want to send some peanut butter M & M's but I don't really know of anything else.

It sounds like tons of fun getting together as a family and reading the BOM. Maybe when I get back along with the other three or four missionaries that'll be back from our family we can get together and have tons of fun reading right. Things are going good here right now I'm reading the bible my plan is to finish the bible and the book of mormon before I get home. we'll have to see if I can do it . . .

The Continuing Saga

2009-07-28T08:15:00.003-06:00

That`s good to hear that the bishop (our former Bishop is our home teacher) enjoys seeing the pictures I send him. I haven`t heard from bishop brown(our new Bishop) yet though. things are going good, tomorrow my comp is getting changed and I`ll get a new comp from the U.S. Maybe we`ll be able to talk a little bit of english. Also saturday I made my way back to my last area to baptize some of my old investigators it was really cool. The new pres is cool I had a really short interview with him so he doesn`t really know me too well just yet. he does have some family with him though. We live beneath a members house in an apartment. I`m gonna be getting out some of the shirts I saved so no worries with that. we have a washing machine and hang the clothes to dry, I should be getting your package tomorrow at the changes. as for every thing else I`m good right now. love you

The Mexico Buzz

2009-07-20T16:39:00.000-06:00

Wow sounds like a blast last night I had a dream that I was back home that I was gonna come back to the mission cuz I had a few months still left but I kept thinking I`m back home what am I gonna do and the first thought that popped into my head because I couldn`t be with any family or that is that I`m going for a burrito!!! haha i was so full but just wanted one to have it haha things are going good here my district is doing well and we`re working on our faults... my comp and I are still kinda well we`re different my zone leader is trying to get him changed he doesn`t really want him here with some problems that have passed. Today we played some soccer and some basketball and one of the elders elbowed me in the head it started bleeding and all that fun stuff, but no worries everything’s alright and I`m ok :) I heard today that I got some packages from the mail they are in the offices they are probably from you guys and Kerst.... Thanks a ton mom for all the love and support especially for all your help. I`ve seen some of the blessing just now of being a member all my life and having the influence i had in my youth that i`m so thankful for. Love you tons

Cory

Mexico Update

2009-07-14T22:25:00.004-06:00

Sunday Terry and I went to the homecoming in Pleasant Grove for President and Sister Doxey, Cory's mission president. It was nice to see them in person and meet some of the missionaries who knew Cory, even his first companion, Elder Canard (from Layton, Utah)!

From Cory:
Wow sounds like President Doxey is quiet the guy all pretty famous people in his family i guess haha sounds alot like his last conference here with us. That`s cool that their were a few RM`s from the mission their I`m sure their may have been more but who knows. I sent a letter to Canard I`ll see if he writes me back or not. haha

Terry's nieces and nephew from Hawaii were here for a visit so we had them over for a barbecue. Terry's two brothers also came and Dick brought his three kids, their spouses and his granddaughter. We had 27 people!

From Cory:
Wow everyone is all married and has lots of kids I`m gonna have tons of Carter family that I don`t even know!!!! how crazy! at least I`ll have lots of Stokes I know maybe not the Bodilies so much just cuz I don`t know half of them but whatever it`s all good right???

we baptized this week a young guy named Daniel. He was pretty excited it was really pretty awesome! Some of my favorite fruits here are the mangos, guayabas or guava, and the tunas... it`s a fruit from a cactus... their really wierd but taste great!!!

Mexico City News

2009-07-08T20:30:00.002-06:00

Cory's District

Haha sounds like an awesome fourth of july! That`s surprising that they still have the water section with the young kid that died or got hurt last year but I`m definitly glad it`s still there I love that part!!! Haha I hope you all are doing great. We had two baptisms this last weekend and hopefully one this week we`ll see what we can do... Love you tons

A "Little" More from Mexico

2009-06-30T08:03:00.002-06:00

Mexico City isn't too sunny right now haha been raining alot Hope I'll be able to see them (the family across the street has to move in with family in Syracuse) when i get back . . . that's sad to hear
We'll have to go on a zoo date sometime I miss the zoo it's a lot of fun!!! things are going good here we got some pet mice and should have some baptisms so things are going good:) haha Love you tons!!

News from Mexico

2009-06-23T09:24:00.002-06:00

Elder lopez is from Veracruz! He is a kinda cool kid, he has had a bunch of problems but things are gonna get better. WE really didn`t work that much this week but we did get an investigator to church. Its an improvement from how work was with Solis. Not really sure why Pres sends me all these dead comps. This thursday we will meet our new pres and say goodbye to President Doxey!.... As District leader everyone has to report to me and I try and capacitate them on how to be better missionaries hope everything is going good Loves

Tell Dad I love him and I think about him everyday. I have his picture with the Wig on the side of my bed to help me laugh and start the day of right ;) HAPPY FATHERS DAY!!!! FELIZ DIA DE PADRE

Haha I`m sure you made their day, I always feel crappy when the ppl here offer me money. But great job mom!!! Sounds like fun with the BOM Game! Maybe when I`ll get home I can play and see how I do, I`ll still probably lose lol! Love you tons!!!

So you understand the last paragraph from Cory, I sent an email telling him how a friend from work and I were at lunch and saw two missionaries come into the restaurant so we both got $5 out to give them and talked about where they were from and told them about Cory. The BOM game is something my sister, Sherice, has come up with where we (the family) read the Book of Mormon in a short period of time then have a party and play BOM Jeopardy. Should be fun!!!

Candice's Surprise Party

2009-06-16T12:24:00.003-06:00

First of all, I want you to know that Candice may be 30, but I couldn't possibly be her mother since I'm only 39! Second of all, don't ever try to throw a surprise party for Candice. We had about four different scenarios to trick her into coming to the house so we could surprise her. Well, come Saturday, we just had to fly by the seat of our pants. First, she wanted to take Dawson to see the movie, "Up", which would have been alright except Dawson wanted to be at the house when Candice got there to spray Silly String all over her. So, we told her that Dawson didn't wanta to see the movie and she asks why so we had to tell her he was planning a surprise for her and needed to stay at Grandma's most of the day. So, she and Andy went to a movie themselves which would have worked out just right, however, when it is over she wants to stop at WalMart then meet us for dinner at Outback. No matter what we tried, she was always throwing a wrench into the plan. We finally got her to come to the house and she usually just walks right in, but she knocked and rang the doorbell. We are all just trying to be quiet and finally she opens the door. She was very surprised!!!! And, Steph and I were very relieved!! The rain let up long enough for Terry to barbecue the burgers and hot dogs, so all went almost as planned. Here are some pictures:

Continuing Mexico City saga

2009-06-16T09:00:00.003-06:00

my comp willbe heading homehearin just a few days he'll be in his house wednesday. My new comp is really wierd and lame. He is kinda a creep and doesn't like to work he is kinda known in the mission for being the way he is ...But it's all good they moved me up to district leader which means I have to teach in the district meetings everyweek and have to interview people for baptisms a little scary but we'll see how things going. . .
(We asked about making plans for a short trip in the states when he gets home) I'm gonna have to say that that is an awesome idea and i am totally up for going with ya'll as for flight plans I won't get them untill maybe a month before I leave. The baby in the picture is my godaughter from San Juan and the monkey is a local famous haha he is a pet :)

Retirement for Edrice

2009-06-08T10:04:00.003-06:00

A special friend retired this year. I have worked with her since I came to the District Office in 1992. So, Kathie Bone and I decided to make a small Dick and Jane quilt for her. My niece, Cammie, did the quilting and put the following words in as she quilted: 20 years, PTA, Volunteer, Davis School District, Kids, Kendell, White, Bowles, Edrice. She has worked in Volunteer Services under three Superintendents (Kendell, White and Bowles) and has been involved in PTA since her kids were in school. We hope she knows how much we will miss her and have fond memories when she looks at this quilt.
Congratulations, EDRICE!!!!!!

The Saga II

2009-06-02T08:56:00.003-06:00

On Memorial Day we head to Price for breakfast at Ricardo's then on to Cleveland to decorate graves from my father's side of the family. Afterwards we head to a park in Cleveland that just happens to be land that my grandfather gave to the city. My dad loves to tell us just where things were when he was young and points out areas on the mountainside that lead to campgrounds and memories he shares. Fun times! This year, however, when everyone played baseball at the park, Terry made a catch using the hand without the glove and came away with a badly bruised and throbbing thumb. We sure love the tradition of Memorial Days.

Now for Cory's email:

Sounds like eerything went really good on your end except for maybe dad and the whole barehanded catch. As well things went good this week for us. Our baptism Geovani who is 16 and a boy, went good and we had him confirmed on sunday as well we had found a few new investigators that were able to make it to church as well. My comp is really cool he sin't really a working guy so the missionary part isn't as good as it could be, but things are going good. My new area is nice the members are kind and are usually active and supportive in the church activities:)

I sent an email telling Cory about Elder Russell M. Nelson's robbery experience in the Mozambique Mission Home and how I was glad he was in Mexico rather than South Africa (like he wanted). Here is the response:

Well just a little good news nothing like that has happened to me so maybe it's better I came here and not to Africa!!

The Saga from Mexico City

2009-05-27T16:46:00.002-06:00

I thought I would start this post with the email I sent Cory so you would get a feel for what he is talking about in his email back.

Hola hijo mi:

How are you liking your new companion, Elder Solis? I guess you have moved. What is the area like? Since Elder Solis doesn't have much time left, are you learning more about the responsibilities of a District Leader? Are you still in Iztapalapa? Do you have personal study time each day? What kinds of things do you study? Do you have study materials in Spanish or English? Did you get our package? I thought you could give the aprons to the sister whose house you lived in for Mother's Day. Looking forward to hearing about your experiences.

Love you,

Mom

Hey! Ya I`m still in iztapalapa. Things are going good here we have a baptism tonight so that`s pretty awesome! Not really learning a whole lot about being district leader I ask a few questions every now and then just to know but i don`t know... I think i`ll probably stop by her house after I get the package so no worries... Right now in the mornings I`m studying the bible in english to learn more about why everyone hates the book of mormon and to learn more so I can use it more :D

Next email:

Yeah it's the first earthquake I've ever felt and boy was it awesome!! haha I couldn't tell what was happening at first then my comp and I freaked out!!! haha love you tons!!! have a great time on the Memorial day!!!

Cory's Latest

2009-05-20T12:38:00.004-06:00

That'll sure be a fun thing to look at and remeber when I get back home. (We received a letter from his mission president, dated March 30, 2009 stating that he had been made a missionary trainer.) I didn't move to far from my last are this time we are actually toching corners of my new area and my old area. My new comp is from Chiuahua and his name is elder Solis. He has 23 months in the mission and is our district leader.

Sounds like everything went really good with the ribbon cutting. (I (Kayleen) have been involved at work with a committee to get the Community Learning Center up and running in Clearfield next to Wasatch Elementary.) I haven't gotten the packages just yet but I'm sure it won't be much longer until they get here no worries. I hope those who live back home can't recognize if I have a Gringo accent or not haha (In talking to him on Mother's Day, he spoke some Spanish and it sounded like someone entirely different.)

Hahaha we'll have a competition to see who speaks better spanish when I get back. . . That's crazy that Sam is going to be gone too! I know I've asked a million times but if you could hook me up with their address that'd be awesome, aslo if you can their mtc ones I wanted to dear elder a few of them:D Love you tons

A Real Letter!

2009-05-04T11:44:00.004-06:00

Cory posted a letter (dated April 15, 2009) to us which we received Saturday, May 2, 2009! Here are some excerpts:

"So I'm getting the idea that maybe you want me to write more with the envelopes and eight pads of paper. I've received all your packages My comp & I both really enjoy each of them the latest ones were full of peanut butter cups and tons of Valentines candy from ya'll Alecia & Kersten. I've also received letters from Grandma & Grandpa Elder Blake Carter Colton Smith & one of the latest from Dad. Maybe the best things I've gotten are the cards & pictures their things I can always enjoy & always make me smile.

I'm still working on playing the guitar. I might not have learned all the Hymns on the piano but, I can play most of them on the guitar. My comp & I had interviews with President today it all went really good. I think he has alot of confidence in me as a missionary. Last week we had a ton of people to teach and a lot of success, this week has been a little bit harder. Last week we had a great car wash activity with the young men & young women. They washed the cars as we taught the owners and got lots of references.

My comp told me dad looks like the actor from Pretty Woman and Grandpa Looks like some general Authority. . . everyone here in Mexico says grandpa does. It's kinda cool being a "dad" in the Mission (I think he means the senior companion) but even more cool to someone from Peru. I get all the benefits of him already knowing Spanish like a Mexican but get to teach him the ropes of Mexico lifestyle & what not like an Elder from the States it's cool & makes me laugh especially when the "Gringo" helps the "Mexican" out at the store and the owners look at us wierd. HAHAHA Love You all tons !! ELDER Carter Stokes"

Cory Received Our Package!

2009-04-21T19:35:00.003-06:00

Yeah All the packages and letters I´ve gotten have had all the stuff in it that they sent me, even the card from gerarda it had twenty dollars. That´s awesome to hear about her grandaughter though how exciting to go to Florida on her mission!!! Wow Sounds like lots of wedding bells. Haha and I know the ppl that are getting married too... that´s actually kinda wierd... If you can send me pics I wanna see what their husbands look like... Love you
I was hoping to not have to respond to you to say happy birthday but... HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!! haha Sounds like a beautiful most part of the day. I get so many migraines here in the mission who knows why.... That´s way crazy that he (Cory's friend Marcos got his mission call) is going to Missouri you HAVE to hook me up with the address please haha I might just go see those parts of town when I get back...... ;) hahaha We got some good work done this week just looking to see what god thinks about answering the questions the investigators have...

That´s good to hear that she (Margaret, the widow Terry home teaches) is doin better she has had some really hard times in her life huh... It´s gonna be wierd having Bishop Brown, (we had a new bishopric sustained two weeks ago) but I guess I´ll have Bishop Thatcher (he is the bishop of the singles ward) huh ahaha. Two guys including Robby Jones who gave the Nelson family the camara that I know of had their families come and pick them up. Others i´m not too sure about I don´t know... If you could send me some taco seasoning paquetes and the ranch ones that candice uses for her salad That´d be awesome!!! I loved the candy I got in the package. My comp likes them too he liked the card you sent him!!! Thanks a ton mom for all the support it really does help me a ton!!!

The Latest from Elder Carter

2009-04-07T10:31:00.002-06:00

I will preface Cory's email since he doesn't write a complete sentence in response to my question. . .. I told him about Terry and I obtaining tickets to attend General Conference at the Conference Center and also about going through the temple with our neighbor who was sealed to her husband who died when Cory was in the MTC.
That´s way awesome!!! I was thinking about when I get home to try and get into all or most of the sessions of conference cuz I think that´d be way so awesome!!! I was able to make it to all the session and listen to them in English in a different room but it was really good I can´t wait untill all the talks come out in the ensign so I can read them again. They give us the ensign in the mission. Love you lots mom Hope all goes well.

I sent his Easter package a few weeks ago and always ask if and when he gets it so I have an idea how early to send them. I also asked about his debit card so I can be sure to have enough money on it if he needs to make large purchases (shoes, clothes, etc.).
Yeah I got the package and am waiting till sunday to open it up, don´t worrie about the shoes mom there are tons to choose from here they are all way cheap and i have plenty of money to buy them no worries love you tons mom!!!

This is in answer to where he gets the guitar he has been learning to play. . .
it´s from the church but I´m thinking about maybe buying one here soon it´s like 25 30 dollars... way cheap

More News from Mexico

2009-04-02T11:58:00.003-06:00

That´s way awesome mom! Your gonna have to tell marcos to finally write me one of these days and also Be sure to Congratulate Colby Wilcox He completed a year on the 28th!!!!! WOOT WOOT My new comp is Elder Segura he is from Peru!!!! He talks kinda like Piglet from Winnie the Pooh but It´s all good a little wierd but good :) My comp is really wierd, but He is really excited to work so everything is good!!!! We´ll see what happens this week! :)

(Just to clarify some of Cory's comments: One of his friends was called to the El Salvador Mission and Marcos is another friend who should receive his call in the next couple of weeks. Colby is Cory's friend who is serving in Hungary.)

Cory's News

2009-03-23T17:19:00.004-06:00

My comp is only 18 but all the Native missionaries have gone through the temple here. I´ll miss dad a ton during this conference session but also I´m learning to enjoy it more and learning how to enjoy it without the materials aspects of those saturday nights :D (Terry would take Cory to dinner after the Priesthood session.)
Sounds like Philip is really doing great!! Hope the best for all of you love ya tons!!!
Love the good news mom! that´s all way awesome! That´s great to hear about Doug Lister. (Doug died while Cory was in the MTC and this Saturday I went through the temple with his family as they did his work and his niece also did her endowment session.) There are tons of ppl I´m really gonna miss when I get home! Especially you guys right now but all those that have passed away and all my friends that´ll be gone on their missions... haha But I´m trying to stay in touch with my friends that are out right now :D Give Colton a big hug from me when he gets home! He has been a great friend to me!

2009-03-02T16:30:00.003-07:00

I asked Cory what Iztapalapa was like in reference to areas here and also asked him to share any experiences:

Iztapalapa is like Rose Park a little bit maybe a little bit more jammed packed. On the other side of our area is a little more open but still kinda empty there are a lot of factory of refinaries in our area so there is lots of area to work but not as many houses as you would think but there are still a good few of ppl here. As far as work goes there are the biggest range of work here from welding to recycling to taxis to who knows what else.... The biggest thing that happened was finding one of our investigators and having him feel comfortable opening up to us to share his feelings and experiences in life one of which is that he has died. Also being able to feel the spirit throuch fasting and praying.

I told Cory about Larry H. Miller passing away after having his legs amputated, but also about all he has done with the Joseph Smith Papers:

Wow that´s crazy all the changes that are happening back home and that´s amazing the great response that he has had on the church I had never known about any of that.

A Little (emphasis on little) News from Cory

2009-02-24T08:55:00.003-07:00

That´s great ya´ll had such a great time in the sisters trip! (I had asked what kinds of things keep people from joining the church in Mexico and here's the answer he gave. . .) Yeah those are the pretty classic things that or the ppl just don´t want to hear us but W O W, L O C, and the first vision book of moron thing is the usuall excuse. I haven´t gotten the package yet but i´m sure I´ll get it here soon. (I sent a package for his "hump day" with a camel in it and a story about how camels follow their master.) I´m still here and with elder Narro until the end of March Love you tons mom!!!

More News from Mexico City

2009-02-17T14:07:00.002-07:00

I'm glad that Terry read me the note Cory e-mailed him. It let me know that he is in an area that is known for robberies. They were sitting somewhere in town when a car came careening around the corner and Cory thought it might crash, but it didn't. The car had been stolen. I guess it's not much worse than places here, but I'm not letting up on my "safety" prayers!!!

Here's a little from his e-mail this week:

(Referring to the pictures) Yeah, that was Elder Narro and the people we live with. I think Marcos (a friend whose mother is teaching us Spanish) is gonna go to El Salvador with his family. You have to tell the boys to write to me and keep in touch so they have someone writing to them when there out in the mission field.

Only news type of stuff that I have here is that USA beat MEXICO in soccer something that has become kinda normal now days ha ha ha but I think there are a lot of mad people about it all.
Did I tell you I'm learning the guitar and have learned a song or two!! I don't have to play the piano we have ppl that play in our ward.

Cory's Birthday Pictures

2009-02-10T09:02:00.009-07:00

I'm sure these people are the members whose home, Cory and Elder Narro are currently residing in.

What a nice family. Cory looks good so I can stop worrying.

Latest News

2009-02-03T10:14:00.002-07:00

Cory writing:

Thanks a ton mom!!! My birthday went good I ate tacos de cow brains and cow tongue and who knows what else but it was good!!! haha That´s awesome about everyone leaving for their missions I really just want their address for the mtc more than anything but whatever you can get is awesome!

Kayleen -

Cow brains?!?!!! I guess he's good to try things.

Cory News

2009-01-27T13:58:00.001-07:00

My comp is new so the work is really good, he is a little nervous or shy at times but it`s all good we get work done! he doesn`t talk very much so if he doesn`t like how we do things or what i do or if he is upset with me he doesn`t tell me and I tell him that he can talk to me and i`ll take care of whatever but who knows.... Saturday we had a baptism but three times, she couldn`t keep her feet in the water haha This saturday a member will baptise his son so we`ll for sure have baptisms for my birthday!!!! haha
Love you

Brother and Sister Missionaries

2009-01-27T10:30:00.008-07:00

Sunday we had an extra special day with the extended family. My nephew, Philip, and niece, Fran, spoke in church prior to leaving on their missions. Philip enters the MTC on February 4th and will serve in the Kennewick, Washington Mission. One week later Fran will enter the MTC to begin her mission which is in the Melbourne Australia Mission. How cool is that? I'm sure Sherice and David aren't quite as excited as we are. It is hard enough to send one out, but two and so close together?!?!?! Wow! Here are some pics from Sunday.

Dawson, the Cub Scout

2009-01-27T10:23:00.004-07:00

Dawson was excited to join the Cub Scouts. He has an awesome Den Leader who made arrangements for his shirt and kerchief! I just had to get a shot of the scout in uniform because he was so excited about it! Isn't he cute?
Dawson is a new big brother, too. His dad and stepmom were able to adopt a baby boy and picked him up Saturday. Candice took Dawson to see him Sunday afternoon and he was so excited to hold this little (5lb. 2oz.) guy and get to know him. All kinds of fun stuff happening for this little guy!!!

Week of January 19th

2009-01-21T11:09:00.004-07:00

Monday I received a short e-mail from Cory wondering if everything was okay since he hadn't heard from us. I quickly replied to it and then he answered back, but was out of time to say more. I guess there was a glitch on the myldsmail end of things since I had written at least three times that week. I was thinking how wonderful it was to communicate through e-mail, but I guess it isn't foolproof! Cory is loving the people and the work and we are happy that he decided to serve a mission. He is nearing the one-year mark on February 20th and we can't believe it. Stephanie and I need to get a move on with our Spanish lessons!!

On another note, wasn't it great to witness the historical inauguration of President Barack Obama on Tuesday? Time seems to be moving at such a fast pace. I'm glad we are able to witness some of these major historical events!

Just an Update on Cory

2009-01-09T10:40:00.003-07:00

Cory has been transferred to a new area, Iztapalapa in Distrito Federal, Mexico in the area of Meyehualco. His new companion is Elder Narro and Cory is the senior companion now. On New Year's Day they were with the bishop of his area, Cory said he is really, really cool and invited them to eat with them. They also ate grapes for good luck and shared a cake with the family. He mentioned that this bishop is 30 something and he kinda looks like Blake Bodily.

In the last posting Cory had cut his head open. Well he told us this week that he and his companion were locked out of their house and climbed up on a ledge to go through the window. That's when he fell and hit his head on some bricks. They did get into the house and he didn't require stitches.

Christmas Treasures

2008-12-29T21:10:00.001-07:00

Glad to hear that Christmas went as well as it did for all of you. As you know mine started off with me throwing up however it also ended with me cutting open my head a litte bit and breaking a window. I'm fine now, but my comp dropped my camera and it doesn`t work now, I sent it with an elder who will leave for his house soon, he lives in Orem. If you could let Sharon and Howie know that they with have an RM visiter in a few weeks that would be awesome!
I`m not sure what we can do with the camara.... Your gifts all worked out great and I loved each and everyone of them. They all helped bring the Christmas spirit in my life and helped me feel more at home during these christmas holidays! I took lots of pics and hope to send them to you in the next couple of weeks!
As for Changes, My area will be closed so both my comp and I have changes. I will move to an area that has had lots of success with a comp that only has 6 weeks, in missionary terms I will be his step dad. My comp will leave to a new area for 11 days and will leave home the 9th of January! It`s crazy sometimes how the mission is!
Love you all tons and tons
Elder Carter

Feliz Navidad!

2008-12-28T23:30:00.003-07:00

I think this Christmas will go down as one of the very best! Mostly because we were able to make a special phone call to Mexico and talk with Cory. How wonderful to hear his voice and how well he has adapted to Spanish! He is doing so well and it just gave each of us that extra boost to hear him talk and laugh. We were able to record most of the call - even the times when the calling card cut off the call and had us dial the number again (about four different times)! What a wonderful gift to all of us!
After our phone call, we opened gifts and made waffles. Dawson gets to spend Christmas morning with us before going to his dad's so we enjoyed every minute! Dawson has become quite the Ute fan and Grandpa Terry gave him a Sugar Bowl 2009 hat! He was wearing it the moment it came out of the wrapping paper. We also enjoyed a visit from Grandpa and Grandma Stokes and were able to share a little of Cory's telephone call from the recording.
Steph and I went to see Marley and Me in the afternoon and had to sit on the third row (not realizing how popular the 4:30 showing would be). I padded my head with my coat and sat back to enjoy a really good movie. You'll have to see it!
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

From Cory This Week

2008-12-19T21:38:00.003-07:00

That`s awsome about dawsons baptism it really sounds like things went spectacular!!! I really wish I could be home for the holiday season I missed out big time with thanksgiving but I guess that`s why they let us have a phone call with our famliy huh. You`ll probably want to call me, it`s less expensive that way maybe if you purchase a phone card it will cost even less. Glad to hear that your getting along good with your surgery and that everything went well with the program. I got the package from Candice today and our leaders told me there are two more waiting for me.... I think we`might have a baptism this week or next week so things are going pretty good :)
Thanks a ton for writing me mom I know it`s not a lot but it means a ton to me especially after surgery. I`m glad to hear that your surgery went well, GET WELL SOON. All the members ask me about there problems and call me Doctor Carter because I know a little bit about how things work. Things are going alright with Elder Rosas and I. I don`t understand what some ppl are doing in their missions if they`re not here to work or be missionaries. We get to go to the temple on thursday.

Dawson's Baptism

2008-12-08T16:36:00.002-07:00

Dawson was baptized Saturday, December 6th by his Grandpa Terry. Dawson really wanted Uncle Cory to talk at his baptism, so we had Cory e-mail his talk and Grandma Kayleen read it. After the baptism, we changed rooms and waited for the new member to get dried off and dressed. Grandma Stokes gave a talk about the Holy Ghost that was wonderful. She was so nervous, but she really did well. Then Dawson was confirmed and all the Melchezidek Priesthood holders stood in the circle while Grandpa Terry confirmed him a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. It was a wonderful day. Lots of family and friends were able to attend. Dawson is sure loved!

Grandpa Jay's Surprise Party

2008-12-01T20:13:00.010-07:00

The birthday guy and his sweetheart! We surprised dad at the church on Saturday, November 29th. He thought mom had fallen and twisted her ankle so he was in a hurry to come to her aid. Fortunately, that was just a line to get him to the church for the surprise. The first thing he did after we surprised was look for his sweetheart and make sure she was okay! Then he let us sing Happy Birthday to him. How sweet!

Photos of Jay through his life. . .

Just part of the family tree. All five daughters were there with most of their family with them. We each shared memories and some talents. It was a fun evening and I think my Dad enjoyed his birthday celebration!!!!

News from Cory 11-20-08

2008-11-21T10:33:00.003-07:00

That was so awesome to hear that you were able to see the event it was so spectacular I really did just love it. I wasn´t able to see all of it but with president monson trying to speak spanish and his classroom events and everything was really special to hear. the rededication was also very very special I was able to attend both session and loved each one of them. I hope you were as happy and as excited as I was to be there and see everything!!!!

Well earlier in the week we married and baptized a Guy in our area his wife is a member and wow was it a long day but to see the happiness in their faces that day was spectacular. He really wanted to be able to go to the Temple Rededication with his wife which helped motivate him for his descison. The event was spectacular I was able to see some ppl from my old area and also able to see some of my favorite missionary friends. I have a new companion, Elder Rosas and He has about two months left in his mission he is mexican and so far things are fairly good.

Rededication of Mexico City Temple

2008-11-14T13:46:00.003-07:00

From Cory:
I`m not involved in anything for the rededication only for the Estadio Azteca event but it`ll be awesome.

From Kayleen:
The missionaries will be singing Called to Serve during this event. They have all been given matching ties to wear. The stadium seats about 100,000 people. This will take place Saturday and the dedication will be held on Sunday. What a wonderful event to take place while serving a mission!

The Deck that Terry Built

2008-10-30T21:17:00.005-06:00

The finished deck. Terry had a neighbor, Jim, help him put on the railing.

Halloween Parade

2008-10-30T13:25:00.003-06:00

Mr. Dibble, the principal wizard!
Dawson, Darth Vader.
Dawson and classmates.

Tender Mercies

2008-10-24T11:18:00.003-06:00

Cory sent Stephanie an e-mail that made us both shed some tears. Here is a portion of it . . .

Hey thanks steph! That was really nice of you to share your testimony with me about your knowledge and belief in an alknowing God. The way you felt that night is how I feel very often here when ppl won`t even let us in there house to share our message. It`s hard because I have traveled so far and have given so much to come here talk and help them and they don`t accept me. I`m not saying I`m Jesus in any way but I feel very much like him. He came to fulfill all the profecies and to teach and redeem the ppl but they rejected him and ended up killing him. Try to always remember Steph you are a daughter of God who loves you. He wants the best for you and has blessings set aside especially for you in your time of need or in your regular daily life. Steph I know that this church is true, i put in time to find it out for myself, I didn`t let someone tell me but I didn`t reject it either. I tell everyone that they will know this church is true if they give it a chance with an open mind and promise that they will receive many blessings.

Love you Elder Cory Jay Carter

Dawson's new suit

2008-10-20T18:32:00.005-06:00

Check out the missing teeth!

Looking grown up.

Nice smile!

Terry building our deck

2008-10-13T21:52:00.005-06:00

Terry took apart the small deck coming down the french doors on the south side of our home. We wanted a larger deck that we could put a picnic area and our swing on. Terry talked with the guys at Lowe's and found out how to put together the deck we had in mind and started working on it. He used Lowe's Choice Decking so it is weatherproof and won't need painting. Yea!!!!
This is what Terry did on his vacation. Fun, huh?!!??!!

He has it covering the old cement patio and further out on the south and east side. He also has added stairs coming down the east side of the french doors and a couple of stairs on the west side of the deck. I'll have to post pictures of the finished project when he gets the railing put up. He has become quite the "handyman".

Pictures of our Savior of the World Production

2008-10-13T21:29:00.006-06:00

More from Cory

2008-10-13T12:33:00.002-06:00

That`s way awesome to hear about the program and even moreso that Andy was able to see it. I`m glad to hear that you enjoyed as much as you did I`m sure it helped unite many members in the stake as well as families in the wards.

I can almost sing I am a child of god in spanish with out the book!!!! I`m still trying to remember how to talk for church things in english for Dawsons talk... They Celebrate both Halloween and Day of the dead. I am able to purchase a coat here If i need one so no worries and I think it`d be spectacular to receive a package instead of some money it just feels cooler!!! Keep up the strong testimony that you have mom don`t be afraid to share it bare it and strengthen it. Love you mom.

The program Cory refers to is The Savior of the World. Our stake presented it last Friday and Saturday after three months of practicing. It was the most uplifting and testimony strengthening thing I have participate in as an adult. Dawson asked that Cory write a talk on baptism and then I will read it. He will be baptized in December and is getting excited about it.

2008-10-01T16:20:00.007-06:00

these are some latest pics of the water fall I went to and of an elder that´ll go home this next change

Cory sent this e-mail from a sister in his new area:

Hermana Judith wanted to say hi to you the next line or two is from here. Pues Primero No pasa nada.( it´s what I always say) jajaja Buenes tardes, Hermana Carter, Solo quiero dicirle que tiene un hijo maravilloso y especial. ¿por que? bueno el sobrepasa el amor y cariño para con las demas personas a pasar de tener diferente idioma, pero sorprende por que lo habla y entiende muy bien. Yo no se si antes era asi pero ahora que esta al servicio de nuestro padre celestial iradia ese amor!!!! Por ahora es lo único que puedo dicir esperando que pueda encontrarse bien con su familia ojala para la proxima vez pueda contar mas de lo que hace su hijo, Elder Carter.
That was the message she wanted to give to you. Love you mom

Stephanie and I are taking Spanish lessons from Hermana Rodas in our ward on Wednesday evenings. We will have to get her translation, although I think it says good things about Cory.

Missionary News 9-15-08

2008-09-15T14:00:00.003-06:00

From Cory's email on September 15, 2008:
That`s way cool about Abby Ball's talk. It`s about time I became famous. no just teasing, It`s deffinitly one thing that has been reinforced in my testimony in my mission is serving others through acts of service. we taught a family home evening last night and the family has six children ranging in ages 10-3 or something like that not sure, I taught the class and as scared as I was it really turned out good and the kids really enjoyed they really do love hearing stories. I`m glad to hear that Dawson is keeping the athletics going while I`m not their and that Davis is keeping in with tradition winning games!!!

Comments from Kayleen:
Abby Ball lives across the street and spoke in sacrament meeting yesterday. She talked about service and told the story of Cory putting on the Run to Remember when our neighbor, Anthony Deragon, passed away. Anyway, I shared that with Cory so that's what the first sentence is all about.

E-mail to Steph:

If you ever wanna see a big celebration go to mexico for the 15th of september. The parties here are huge the music isn`t too cool but the dances that they do are way awesome!!! WE have a huge activity with the members in the church today with food dances games and things like that.
I`ll be riding a donkey with a giant sombraro hahah I`m excited and plan on taking tons of pics. I`m really not sure about sending me things right now. I`m in an area where I can buy most of the things I need and many of the things I want. However if possible I would like a two
dollar bill to give to a member he collects one dollar bills but I think he`d like to have a two dollar bill with them bieng more rare and that sort of thing...

September 2, 2008 Update

2008-09-04T10:44:00.001-06:00

Yes I did change my area. I am now the very last mission again but this time to the south and east instead of the north and west... hahaha I did as well change my companion. I am now with Elder Salmòn. We have a little pueblo or town named san juan. It`s really little. but the members are awesome! And my district is pretty cool so it`s all good!!!
Well this first week of this change was a very challenging experience for me. This little town reminds me of where Barbara lived (Santaquin) or Heber or places really small and kinda hick like. The first few days were really hard but I'm starting to get use to the area and everything is looking up! I love the members here they are really different but are really nice too!!! I hope that Davis has the chance to sock it to Hawaii tell the boys to hang loose and all will go well. Love you tons dad. Stay safe and be careful in what you do!

Boyz II Men

2008-08-31T17:45:00.004-06:00

Thanks to Sharon and Howie, Stephanie had a dream come true. We were at the "Meet and Greet" with the Boyz II Men and had our pictures taken with them before the concert at the Scera Shell in Orem. Stephanie was so thrilled to meet them and then went backstage afterward. She couldn't ask for a better night!

Kristie, Steph, Kayleen and Candice

Missionary News

2008-08-28T13:31:00.002-06:00

I didn't hear from Cory on Monday, but Tuesday evening we got a quick e-mail. Last week they had a conference at the Mexico City MTC with Elder Holland speaking. Catolina is a girl from the ward who was called on a mission to Vera Cruz and was in the MTC at the time of this conference.
From Cory:
The conference wednesday was great I did get the chance to see Catolina and to hear Elder Holland was great!!! I didn`t think that packages would cost so much I don`t want ya`ll spending too much money only to send me packages, however, I am very greatful to receive each and every one of them. Thank you so much mom love you. I was able to catch a few parts of the Olympics and I wish I was home to watch them. I was able to see the Jamaican and man he is fast!!!

Kayleen's note: Did you notice the third to the last sentence? Thank you and love you in one!!!! We sent out a couple of packages with American candy and some casual clothes and pictures. It only cost $24 and took three weeks to get to him! I'm hoping his next area might be close to a Wal Mart and I'll put money on his debit card to get things.

Almost Six Months Out!

2008-08-18T16:01:00.002-06:00

This wednesday I get to hear from Jeffery R Holland at the Mexico MTC!!! Which means I will also be able to see Catolina, the missionary from our ward. I´ve done lots of thinking since I´ve been in Mexico, The Country lol, and our actions determine our salvation. That´s like the mathmatic code. Actions=level of salvation. And at times we all struggle with different things some are big and some are small some are hard and some are easy, Satan knows each and everyone of our weaknesses and at times we don´t even know our weaknesses. In this life it can be hard to be perfect and to be your best, and that´s ok, Cuz when God judges us he judges us on more than just one level, I´m not saying that there is lee-way or you can barter your way into the celestial kingdom, but I think along with actions your heart, diligence, integrity, and honesty all play a big part. If it´s hard to keep your actions perfect work on the others, or vice versa. I don´t think any of us can be perfect but why not try and get as close as we can!!! ;)
This week I´ve also learned that at times we can be strongly offended by the things others say, however mean, frank, rude, or kind hearted they may be. It´s difficult at times to listen to the critiques of others but at times we need to listen, and try to act upon our thoughts. Remarks can only have the effect we let them have on us. Try not to listen to all but be sure not to disreguard all of them.

August Update from Cory

2008-08-12T07:06:00.001-06:00

It´s been a while I know we weren´t able to get to the internet last week, but we´ve been doing alot of things. We had interviews with the president, painted a store of a members, went with a member to the mountains (gorgeous), taught lessons, knocked doors, and checked tons of houses to see if members even still live there or not. At times here it can be kinda depressing to work all week and not have any of your investigators in the church, however I always remember how important it is that this is Gods work and his plan his way. I know that all the work I put in here may not turn out here but will turn out and some point in time. We encountered a father of one of our strong members who really has a problem with the members of our ward. He told us that what we preach is a lie. He has faith he loves God but the happiness we preach he can´t find in our Ward. It really made me sad and made me think so much about our ward the members and how to help him. I helped him out by letting him know that none of the members of the church are important to his salvation, that he should try hard to follow the example of Jesus and forgive and bless those that hurt him, also to always remember that the church is perfect but the members aren´t and the message that we share with the ppl here is an invitation to follow the example of Christ and try to be more like him.
I hear a little here and there about the olympics but not much however the name Phelps was mentioned!!! lol Sounds like dad is working hard I wish I could be there to help him. I´m trying to do alot of service here but at times it can be hard to find ways to help.
I haven´t received any packages yet however I did get two letters from Grandma and Grandpa that were sent the 2nd and 12th of July.

Missionary Update July 31, 2008

2008-08-04T14:52:00.000-06:00

We didn´t have any money this week so we had to wait till today, thursday, to use the internet. It´s been so much more fun with my new comp we get along great, work hard and have lots in common. He is from Nicaragua has a year in the mish and just over a year in the church. It really helps to have his insite and his newness to the church to help show others that they can gain a testimony of their own. I´m learning more spanish and more about mission life everyday it´s Stellar!!! haha

No new is good news, right!???!

2008-07-31T09:40:00.003-06:00

I haven't heard from Cory this week. I keep trying to convince myself that no news is good news. The best thing I come up with is that he is so busy doing missionary work that he hasn't had time to write. Any thoughts?

Notes from Cory - July 21, 2008

2008-07-21T16:39:00.002-06:00

Well My comp has just over a year in the mission and I´m reminded of it everytime someone asks him. lol He is from Nicaragua. He has more time in his mission than he had time in the church before, which really helps with investigators. Me and him really get along well and he jokes around with our neighbors too which is cool.
I´m sure you could send chocolate elder canard got Cookies and cream chocolate in his but who knows! I´ll be sure to let you know when I receive it!
Haha wow this week was crazy!!! Full of tons of emotions, When I was going around saying bye to the members with my comp i felt like crap. I think it´s mostly cuz I know i´ll have to do the same. When I took my comp to the church for Changes I felt way excited I got to see alot of my friends from the mtc. As we started our way back to our house, that´s when the real fun started!!! I was nervous with my spanish, I had a teaching assignment for my priesthood class, just a bunch of different emotions it was crazy! After the first two days I started feeling like every day was two weeks long really hard I talked to my comp, he told me that´s how it always is but in my next area that´s when the times starts to fly by. Come friday everything started to plane out, I felt better we started having more fun talking to each other, My comp spent all of his money in his old area because he didn´t think he was changing, but a member gave us some cash which helped out a ton! I guess what it comes down to is it was really hard for me at first working with a new comp, improving myself, and trying not to screw everything up, but sticking through with it with faith and demonstrating my faith through all the stuff that had been going on. In the end everything turned out just fine. I´ve gained a bigger testimony this week in having faith in our trials. kinda cool story....
How the spirit does the directing work, in missionary work. One that was really cool this week was when my comp and I were walking I out of no where got a feeling to knock a door i pointed it out from a ways a way and told my comp lets go to the white door! when we got there a guy pulled up in a taxi I told him who we were and what not and he invited us in to talk. In actuallity he is already a member he used to live in Pennsylvania and wants to go to church this sunday and wants his wife and daughter to come as well. They are all members but are having some problems, he wants to get married in the temple forever!!! it was really cool

Cory's Shortest E-mail Yet July 9, 2008

2008-07-14T15:54:00.002-06:00

good night your more busy than I am!!! I'm really enjoying the tacos out here but I've just recently found that I LOVE tortas! My comp leaves tomorrow and I meet up with an Elder Castillo. I've gotta kinda hurry so my comp can pack and say goodbye.

Cory's Latest News

2008-07-08T07:06:00.003-06:00

Ppl here can´t believe that I hunt ducks and stuff its kinda fun. Yeah it really does rain every day!!! WE try and do all our work before the evening thats when it usually rains. This last week we had two family home evenings with members and friends of theirs that aren´t members they both went really good, the one on monday is not in our area but really enjoyed it and would like to do it again, the one from wednesday lives just down the street from the members house and we actually ate at their house the next day. The first week of every month is usually the best food. We both really enjoyed pizza and even steak on the 4th of July!!! It was our little celebration!!!! woowoo

I asked Cory what they do when they have a family home evening and this is his response:

we start off with a song then prayer then a scripture with a quick thought, then a main theme thought, we make those paper flowers I learned how to make end with a song and prayer then eat food!!! haha it works pretty good, we have to be fairly quick with the message and make it blunt but kind, and with the flowers each person writes a message to another family member and passes theirs around so each person has someone elses with a message written to them

Park City Weekend

2008-07-05T15:36:00.007-06:00

Candice, Dawson, Stephanie and I spent a weekend in Park City. We had to check out the outlet stores of course, but then we went to the Alpine Slide and Coaster. Dawson really didn't want to go on those so I took him miniature golfing while Candice and Stephanie rode the slide and coaster. I think the tram ride up to the slide was the most frightening part of the slide for them. They really enjoyed the new coaster. Dawson and I had fun playing golf and I actually got a hole in one. Probably the only way I will is on a miniature golf course! We had a great time and Dawson was able to show me how much he has learned from his golf lessons.

We were able to swim in the pool at the hotel and the next day went to Heber City to ride the train. It was a 3-hour roundtrip ride to Vivian Park in Provo Canyon and back. We saw a blue heron on the water, lots of cows including new little ones, and some goats. As we rode past Deer Creek Reservoir the cows decided to slow down the ride. We had to stop two times for the cows who were on the tracks probably making fun of how much control they had over the big train! There were lots of fly fishermen and several small canoes going down the river. When we stopped, the engine was taken off the front of the train and diverted to a track on the side where it drove to the back of the train and was reattached making that the front of the train. We saw a post with an eagle's nest on the top on our way back.

Latest Missionary News

2008-06-24T14:16:00.002-06:00

This is from Monday's e-mail (June 23, 2008) Cory's punctuation and all . . .

alright this week we went on divisions after our district meeting on tuesday which is a meeting for three areas and we meet in a church of the zone leaders to talk about our progress, help we may need and learn something new to help us through our missions. I went with elder busk in my area for one day. it was kinda scary cuz I had to show hime everywhere to go and guide him and I only have been here a little more than a month. We´ve been teaching most of the same investigators and trying to find new ones. All the baptisimal dates fell through. We have two new investigators a father and son. His son has some mental challenges due to a tumor in his head but he is searchin for the truth in his life very hard at this time. His dad helps him learn and at times helps him read things. His dad is very interested in our church mostly because as a child he had always wondered about God and Jesus role in the americas after he had explained that to us we shared a scripture in 3 nephi about the other sheep that I have that are not of this fold and told him that the ancestors in mexico were the other sheep and that Jesus came to the americas he was very thrilled by it. They both came to church along with Gabino who we have tried to get him baptised. An inactive member and his free union wife and jesus. Elder canard and I Sang Joseph smith first prayer in spanish on sunday he sang the first verse solo we sang the second I sang the third, in the come thou fount tune, solo and we both sang the fourth the same as the third. It was really cool I was really nervous. I think most everyone liked it because it was something different but also because we can, unlike some of the members, sing the church hymns correctly lol it was fun. Today elder canard got his hair cut by a member. Yesterday we went to a members house for his birthday where they had tons, and tons of meet for tacos i ate alot of tacos it was really cool. His name is Esau he is 21 and is the ward missionary. Our neighbor Catolina got her mission call to VERACRUZ!!!! she is really excited we´re trying to help teach her some of the missionary things.

Pictures from Tennessee

2008-06-16T15:04:00.004-06:00

Tasha and Emery

Kinzy and Kaylie

Lunch at Merridee's with Sharalee and Kinzy

Merridee's with Emery and Tasha

Fern and Kayleen on the way home

Tennessee Vacation

2008-06-16T09:46:00.003-06:00

My mom and I just returned from the most wonderful trip to Nashville to visit Sharalee, Tasha, Kinzy, Emery, Kaylie, Steve and Scott. These girls are the most accommodating hostesses. They dropped everything to take us to see the sights. We enjoyed the Belle Meade Plantation, Andrew Jackson's Hermitage (fantastic, especially with the head phones to listen to each area), and the Carnton Plantation (a must see). I even purchased the book "Widow of the South" on tape and have been listening to it and find that I am enjoying it even more since I know the places they are talking especially the parts of the house! It's amazing how historical these sights are and I'm glad they have taken the time to make them a place to tour and learn. We were able to take in a night of the Country Music Fest at the LP Stadium. We listened to eight different singers (Miranda Lambert, Carrie Underwood, Lady Antebellum, Keith Urban, Josh Turner, Julianne Hough, and much more) and had the seats where the breeze came through so we really enjoyed the concert. We thoroughly enjoyed breakfast at Monell's where the food is served family style and continuous. There were scrambled eggs, bacon, ham, sausage, cheese grits, hash browns, baked apples, pancakes, fried chicken, corn pudding, and biscuits and gravy! It was all very yummy! What a fun place - you sit at a long table with your group and others to fill the table and pass the food to the left. It was great food and lots of fun! We had dinner at the Bluebird Cafe and listened to four country music artists play while we ate. That was fun since you are so close to the people playing the music. We went to church at the chapel that is right beside the Nashville Temple. Scott and Tasha had us over for dinner and Scott made wonderful omelets for each of us! Tasha had prepared a delicious fruit pizza. And, we were able to get a game of Farkle in before the night was over. We did have a star sighting while we were in Franklin at Merridee's for lunch. Tasha and Sharalee were getting the girls settled in their chairs and I looked up to see a woman with dark glasses walk by and stop close to the table to look at the girls and their babies and smile then continue on by. It was Naomi Judd! One of the most amazing things we were able to see in Tennessee were the houses Steve builds. They are absolutely stunning! Wonderful floor plans and fabulous colors and the woodworking is something to see. I loved this trip even though it was 94 degrees and humid! The country is green and has beautiful rolling hills. The magnolia trees were in bloom and I have never seen such beautiful trees! It was especially fun to watch the lightning bugs in the early evening! I think this trip will have to go in my memories as one of the best. We saw wonderful sights, and I really enjoyed the time with my mom. I will miss spending time with Kinzy as she performs spinning wheel surgery on my body and tells me when to take vitamins and to make sure to have sugar as it is good for my body. Kaylie and Emery were warming up to us even though we had turned their schedules upside down! What cute kids! Many thanks to Tasha and Sharalee for sharing their homes and time with us!!! :)

Missionary Update

2008-06-03T09:20:00.003-06:00

This is from the e-mail sent Monday, June 2, 2008:

I have one really cool story, well it´s cool to me. My comp and I had seen a man whose car had broken down or what not, we were planning on doin contacts in a different area but I told my comp to ask the man if he wanted some help. The man had said yes so my comp and I started pushing the car towards a hill where he could later coast down to where he needed to go. We pushed this car in our white shirts slacks and bags for about ten minutes before we got to the hill. My comp had asked the man if we could stop by his house another day and share a message that would bless his family. The man replied in the affirmitive. When we went to the house no one was there so we planned to visit them another time. We didn´t think they were too interested and didn´t expect much from the visit. I was on a comp exchange with our zone leader while my comp and the other zone leader went to the second app. They had answered this time but didn´t want to talk with us, however they gave a reference to a family nearby La Familia Ramirez Torrez. My comp and the other ZL contacted them and set up an app. We´ve now taught them for two and a half weeks and we are very excited and looking to their baptism date the 18th of June. It just goes to show that a small act of service though out of your way at that time can bless you in un-thought of ways later down the road. I´m always looking for opportunities to serve others and share the great news of the restored gospel with whoever is willing to listen.

Memorial Day 2008

2008-06-02T13:00:00.002-06:00

We have a Memorial Day tradition of meeting Grandpa and Grandma Stokes at Ricardo's in Price for breakfast then driving to Cleveland to decorate the Stokes family graves. Afterward we head to the park which used to be Stokes property, but is now a beautiful park with playground, barbecue, picnic tables in a covered patio and a big baseball diamond. Boy, do we have a great time playing games and barbecuing. As you can tell, we love to eat! The best part is spending time with family. The kids look forward to this every year. Thanks, Grandpa Jay, for starting this FUNtastic tradition!

Addresses for Cory

2008-05-27T15:40:00.002-06:00

If you'd like to write to Cory, there are a couple of options. The easiest option is going to dearelder.com and put in his mission (Mexico City South) and then click write a letter. They give you the space to write and will print it out and get it in the pouch for you. I don't know how long it takes to get to him, but that is one option. Another is to write or send packages to the following address just using the mail system:
Mision Ciudad De Mexico Sur
Atencion Elder Carter
Ave. Del Taller No. 540
Col. Jardin Balbuena
Deleg. Venustiano Carranza
Mexico D.F., C.P. 15900
Mexico
If you want to send him an e-mail, his address is Walterboysenberry@myldsmail.net. He has p-day on Monday and gets to stop at an internet cafe to check his e-mail. He may not be able to reply, but he would love to hear from everyone.