Sunday, June 6, 2010
Saturday, April 10, 2010
~ Weekly Email ~ 3/16 ~
Dear Fam,
Another P-day, and today it is exactly 6 months since I left home. Wowza! So what did I do? Play soccer! Ha!
So… The Baptisms went very well. I baptized them both and everything was perfect. Ohh, and I gave my 5th talk! Life's good.
I've had a problem trying to figure out how to upgrade my lds.com account and can’t seem to figure it out. So I guess ill try next week.
Cate,
Love you too girl. Glad to hear that I wrote not only a good email, but a sweet one! ;') Congrats Morgan,
Traitor - cough cough. That’s way cool that you’ll be living in Salt Lake, attending U of U .
I'm sure that’s convenient when you have visitors fly in. Close to the Temple as well huh? Life’s good. Cate, glad to hear that you get to visit the fam again. Mom must love that! Well love you both, and I'll be praying for you to find some great work in Salt Lake.
Love,
Elder Tyree
Dad,
I liked your last email, it helped me out a lot. I was thinking a lot about schools after the mission ... where to go, what to do, etc. I really just need to push that thought aside. So thank you. Another book you should read is Our Heritage. This book is filled with information about early church History. You’ve probably read this already? In that case just read the Book of Mormon again, and mark everywhere where it's talking about Jesus Christ. I'm doing that now. Well that’s all the missionary tips I have. ;') Other than that I'll be praying for you. You’re right we’re led according to our faith and we need to endure to the end. Work hard Dad.
Love ya,
Elder Tyree
Mom,
You’re just an amazing woman, I don’t know why I felt like I needed to say it, but you are.
I miss you more and more as the weeks pass by. I'm focused, but I do miss my family greatly. Can’t wait for the moment when we can all be together and I can share my stories with you. Thanks for the information about the ATM card. I have a zone conference on Thursday, I have a feeling I'll get your packages then. In the mean time, I hope you’re doing great Mom.
The lord will bless you and Dad for your hard work and faith.
Love ya beautiful,
Elder Tyree
Another P-day, and today it is exactly 6 months since I left home. Wowza! So what did I do? Play soccer! Ha!
So… The Baptisms went very well. I baptized them both and everything was perfect. Ohh, and I gave my 5th talk! Life's good.
I've had a problem trying to figure out how to upgrade my lds.com account and can’t seem to figure it out. So I guess ill try next week.
Cate,
Love you too girl. Glad to hear that I wrote not only a good email, but a sweet one! ;') Congrats Morgan,
Traitor - cough cough. That’s way cool that you’ll be living in Salt Lake, attending U of U .
I'm sure that’s convenient when you have visitors fly in. Close to the Temple as well huh? Life’s good. Cate, glad to hear that you get to visit the fam again. Mom must love that! Well love you both, and I'll be praying for you to find some great work in Salt Lake.
Love,
Elder Tyree
Dad,
I liked your last email, it helped me out a lot. I was thinking a lot about schools after the mission ... where to go, what to do, etc. I really just need to push that thought aside. So thank you. Another book you should read is Our Heritage. This book is filled with information about early church History. You’ve probably read this already? In that case just read the Book of Mormon again, and mark everywhere where it's talking about Jesus Christ. I'm doing that now. Well that’s all the missionary tips I have. ;') Other than that I'll be praying for you. You’re right we’re led according to our faith and we need to endure to the end. Work hard Dad.
Love ya,
Elder Tyree
Mom,
You’re just an amazing woman, I don’t know why I felt like I needed to say it, but you are.
I miss you more and more as the weeks pass by. I'm focused, but I do miss my family greatly. Can’t wait for the moment when we can all be together and I can share my stories with you. Thanks for the information about the ATM card. I have a zone conference on Thursday, I have a feeling I'll get your packages then. In the mean time, I hope you’re doing great Mom.
The lord will bless you and Dad for your hard work and faith.
Love ya beautiful,
Elder Tyree
~ Weekly Email ~ 3/9 ~ My favorite soccer story yet!
Greetings Family,
Well it's about that time again - I'm here! Where to start?
Another transfer flew by, starting my fourth transfer already.
I'm staying with Elder Henrique for another 6 weeks. I don't have to move. I'm pretty excited actually, because he's taught me a lot, and we are starting to baptize people. Saturday, we have two. For the first time in my mission, I'll be baptizing them. ;') All of the other Baptisms have been done by others . I'm SO excited.
Today, I'm going to do this email a little differently, I'm going to talk about each person we are teaching and a little story about them.
David-15, his baptism is this weekend. He’s such a good kid and he's a missionaries dream. His testimony of the church is amazing. So as you can tell, I think he is pretty awesome.
Centia-15, her baptism is this weekend also. She is a very, very, shy girl.
The first lesson with her, I think she said two sentences. My first impression was, I didn't know what to think? Now she hás learned to trust us and talk during the lessons. She’s been to church a few times and hás finally said: “Yes, I'd like to be baptized." ;)
José-82, Love this Guy! His hearing is definitely poor and that makes it difficult during the lessons. But we met him three weeks ago and he went to church that Sunday and every Sunday since then. The thing he loves most about our church is how calm and tranquil our church is. It’s so true! There are over 100 churches in this small town and as we pass them each night pastors are screaming and yelling at people. ;') I'm thinking - how on earth can you feel the spirit? I'm not saying anything bad about other religions, but I would be terrified to sit there and get yelled at! {ha!} ;')
We have a few other families that we’re teaching. No special stories yet. The first lesson went well. (Still in the early stages ... but we’re getting there!)
Fun stuff: I was walking down the road the other day and I saw a kid score a goal in the street. I said “ohhhh”, gave him a high five. Then he asked if I play. Without saying a word my companion said: "yeah - give him the ball!"
I'm thinking “awe great” - I'm gonna shame the U.S.! I juggled it about 50 times with my head, paused it on the top of my head, rolled it down to my mouth and kissed it, then back to the top of my head. This kid was screaming “ohhhhhh”!!!! Then he asked me where I played?
“USA”, I answered. He cracked up laughing and didn't believe me!
I told him: “I'm serious”.
He pauses and said: “Whoa, you guys are finally learning how to play?!" Hahaha!!! Good times.
Cate+Morgan,
Glad you had the chance to hang with Ashley for a few days. I know the Lord will bless her greatly!
Morg,
Keep working hard bro! Cate, miss you a ton, love yer' guts. I thought the other day about how much of a jerk I was with you until about 18 years old. ;')
“You never know how great you’ve got it, until its gone." Same with us, you and I went to college, you got married, I left for my mission. Dang, Ive missed you!
Love you both,
Elder T
Mom+Dad,
Sorry Dad, I know that you want to hear all my stories. However, all of my stories are in my journal and I never remember to bring it to the computer on p-day. You’ll hear them ALL when I get home in 2011. ;)
Hopefully this letter is better then usual. Dad I saw a picture of an investigator playing golf and I immediately thought of you. Fishing as well. You remember 2 years ago when you and I caught that 150 pound tarpon and that Shark ate your Snook??? No one in Brazil believes my fish stories. Oh IF they only knew? ;')
Mom, you are special. Mom, I know it's been rough on you with Dad, Cate, and I out of the house. You definitely deserve a break. My hero parents. I want everyone to know that the Book of Mormon is the greatest book ever written. It means the world to me to read it everyday. (Like the book of Enos, “My soul hungered”.) I'd like to read it once more this year, along with the New Testament, and Jesus the Christ. Solid goal, huh? ;')
This church is true.
Beijo e abraço,
Elder Tyree
Well it's about that time again - I'm here! Where to start?
Another transfer flew by, starting my fourth transfer already.
I'm staying with Elder Henrique for another 6 weeks. I don't have to move. I'm pretty excited actually, because he's taught me a lot, and we are starting to baptize people. Saturday, we have two. For the first time in my mission, I'll be baptizing them. ;') All of the other Baptisms have been done by others . I'm SO excited.
Today, I'm going to do this email a little differently, I'm going to talk about each person we are teaching and a little story about them.
David-15, his baptism is this weekend. He’s such a good kid and he's a missionaries dream. His testimony of the church is amazing. So as you can tell, I think he is pretty awesome.
Centia-15, her baptism is this weekend also. She is a very, very, shy girl.
The first lesson with her, I think she said two sentences. My first impression was, I didn't know what to think? Now she hás learned to trust us and talk during the lessons. She’s been to church a few times and hás finally said: “Yes, I'd like to be baptized." ;)
José-82, Love this Guy! His hearing is definitely poor and that makes it difficult during the lessons. But we met him three weeks ago and he went to church that Sunday and every Sunday since then. The thing he loves most about our church is how calm and tranquil our church is. It’s so true! There are over 100 churches in this small town and as we pass them each night pastors are screaming and yelling at people. ;') I'm thinking - how on earth can you feel the spirit? I'm not saying anything bad about other religions, but I would be terrified to sit there and get yelled at! {ha!} ;')
We have a few other families that we’re teaching. No special stories yet. The first lesson went well. (Still in the early stages ... but we’re getting there!)
Fun stuff: I was walking down the road the other day and I saw a kid score a goal in the street. I said “ohhhh”, gave him a high five. Then he asked if I play. Without saying a word my companion said: "yeah - give him the ball!"
I'm thinking “awe great” - I'm gonna shame the U.S.! I juggled it about 50 times with my head, paused it on the top of my head, rolled it down to my mouth and kissed it, then back to the top of my head. This kid was screaming “ohhhhhh”!!!! Then he asked me where I played?
“USA”, I answered. He cracked up laughing and didn't believe me!
I told him: “I'm serious”.
He pauses and said: “Whoa, you guys are finally learning how to play?!" Hahaha!!! Good times.
Cate+Morgan,
Glad you had the chance to hang with Ashley for a few days. I know the Lord will bless her greatly!
Morg,
Keep working hard bro! Cate, miss you a ton, love yer' guts. I thought the other day about how much of a jerk I was with you until about 18 years old. ;')
“You never know how great you’ve got it, until its gone." Same with us, you and I went to college, you got married, I left for my mission. Dang, Ive missed you!
Love you both,
Elder T
Mom+Dad,
Sorry Dad, I know that you want to hear all my stories. However, all of my stories are in my journal and I never remember to bring it to the computer on p-day. You’ll hear them ALL when I get home in 2011. ;)
Hopefully this letter is better then usual. Dad I saw a picture of an investigator playing golf and I immediately thought of you. Fishing as well. You remember 2 years ago when you and I caught that 150 pound tarpon and that Shark ate your Snook??? No one in Brazil believes my fish stories. Oh IF they only knew? ;')
Mom, you are special. Mom, I know it's been rough on you with Dad, Cate, and I out of the house. You definitely deserve a break. My hero parents. I want everyone to know that the Book of Mormon is the greatest book ever written. It means the world to me to read it everyday. (Like the book of Enos, “My soul hungered”.) I'd like to read it once more this year, along with the New Testament, and Jesus the Christ. Solid goal, huh? ;')
This church is true.
Beijo e abraço,
Elder Tyree
Weekly Email ~ 3/2
Hello family ~
I just got back from a long day at the Temple and loved every minute of it. The only sad part is, once again I don't have much time to email. Our Ward Mission leader loves us and told us to write our families before our weekly meeting. So I'm very grateful for the time I have to write you a short email.
Gosh ... I love my fam. So I'll start with the rough news of my week. It was pretty challenging. Portuguese seems like a roller-coaster time for me. One minute I'm flying the next I'm struggling. I'm the first American companion Elder Henriques has had and he's got a lot on his plate already. I'm constantly praying to learn this language and for patience. Temples have a way of smoothing things out and changing your perspective. Very relaxing and spiritual. The greatest thing was remembering Cate and Morgan's Sealing and listening to the words over and over. It's really something special. Afterwards, we had an amazing buffet lunch. (Brazilian food is incredible to me) Of course, not as good as Mom's - but she already knew that. ;)
This past week our branch had an open house. Went very well, we now have over 46 references of members. Amazing that we have the opportunity of turning a branch into a Ward. Very exciting!
Cate+Morgan,
That's awesome Cate. - 6 weddings booked! Your rich. ;') Keep plugging at it girl. I'm sorry to hear about Ash ... I hope she feels better soon. I have given 4 blessings this week. I can't give her a blessing, so give her a hug. Wait, I can't do that either. High-five? ;')
Morgan,
Keep working hard man. I know you'll do great.
Love you both a lot!
Elder T
Mom+Dad,
I have been praying for you both. This time for how sincerely grateful I am for the both of you. Without your influence, I wouldn't have had the opportunity to learn and grow in the gospel. I've learned so much about the gospel since I have started to serve as a Missionary. One chapter I loved reading this week was in Helaman 5 ... it really opened my eyes. This church is true, there is no doubt in my mind.
Love you all,
Elder Tyree
I just got back from a long day at the Temple and loved every minute of it. The only sad part is, once again I don't have much time to email. Our Ward Mission leader loves us and told us to write our families before our weekly meeting. So I'm very grateful for the time I have to write you a short email.
Gosh ... I love my fam. So I'll start with the rough news of my week. It was pretty challenging. Portuguese seems like a roller-coaster time for me. One minute I'm flying the next I'm struggling. I'm the first American companion Elder Henriques has had and he's got a lot on his plate already. I'm constantly praying to learn this language and for patience. Temples have a way of smoothing things out and changing your perspective. Very relaxing and spiritual. The greatest thing was remembering Cate and Morgan's Sealing and listening to the words over and over. It's really something special. Afterwards, we had an amazing buffet lunch. (Brazilian food is incredible to me) Of course, not as good as Mom's - but she already knew that. ;)
This past week our branch had an open house. Went very well, we now have over 46 references of members. Amazing that we have the opportunity of turning a branch into a Ward. Very exciting!
Cate+Morgan,
That's awesome Cate. - 6 weddings booked! Your rich. ;') Keep plugging at it girl. I'm sorry to hear about Ash ... I hope she feels better soon. I have given 4 blessings this week. I can't give her a blessing, so give her a hug. Wait, I can't do that either. High-five? ;')
Morgan,
Keep working hard man. I know you'll do great.
Love you both a lot!
Elder T
Mom+Dad,
I have been praying for you both. This time for how sincerely grateful I am for the both of you. Without your influence, I wouldn't have had the opportunity to learn and grow in the gospel. I've learned so much about the gospel since I have started to serve as a Missionary. One chapter I loved reading this week was in Helaman 5 ... it really opened my eyes. This church is true, there is no doubt in my mind.
Love you all,
Elder Tyree
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
2/23 ~ Weekly Email Home ~
This week honestly went by slowly!
I know it's because I didn't get to email the family. It feels like it's been forever! Just shows how much you all mean to me. My family email, is my battery! I only need to charge it once every Tuesday for me to run all week. :)
So my life in Taboão is going well. It's a little stressful, we’re both sênior comps, we are both 5 months into the mission, and we are opening this área. My zone has the highest baptizing zone in the mission. However, my área is always the lowest with baptisms. {Lol –Go Figure!}. I'm really happy to be here and to work hard with the Brazilian people and I'll tell you why ... Two weeks ago our numbers weren’t special at all. Only thing that was going well - was our contacts. We made a ton! But the sad thing is, no one wants to give us two minutes to talk. Tough, tough, stuff. The lessons started to fall through, no one was home, and depression for the week started to hit. Our prayers were long and desperate. So we started teaching less actives, going to the members, etc. This was really successful and now the members of our branch (not a ward yet) trust us and want to work with us. I sincerely feel our first week's "numbers" weren’t so hot. It's a good thing the mission is not all about numbers! :) That was the first step we needed in this área - trust! Another awesome part about my week is that I am closer with my companion. He was seriously depressed the first week. I offered to give him a blessing and he said: “yeah, that's much needed right about now." I went in a quiet room alone and prayed for the spirit and then gave him a blessing of comfort. Completely guided by the spirit, I've never given a blessing when the words flowed so easily. I teared up as I finished the blessing and saw that my companion also had tears flowing. He gave me a great big hug and thanked me. Made my day! Love my work ... honestly I do.
The hardest thing in my life, but at the same time the Best!
Mom, Dad, Cate, Morgan -
I want you all to know, first hand, my prayers have been answered since I have been on my mission. Mom - with caring for the kids, Dad - with safety, knowledge and strength for a future job. Cate - with work in photography, happiness and success. Morgan - that he’ll get accepted into a Grad school. I truly feel overwhelmed, the Lord has blessed our family greatly.
May we overcome our trials with the help of the Lord. I love our family.
Love you all,
Elder Tyree
I know it's because I didn't get to email the family. It feels like it's been forever! Just shows how much you all mean to me. My family email, is my battery! I only need to charge it once every Tuesday for me to run all week. :)
So my life in Taboão is going well. It's a little stressful, we’re both sênior comps, we are both 5 months into the mission, and we are opening this área. My zone has the highest baptizing zone in the mission. However, my área is always the lowest with baptisms. {Lol –Go Figure!}. I'm really happy to be here and to work hard with the Brazilian people and I'll tell you why ... Two weeks ago our numbers weren’t special at all. Only thing that was going well - was our contacts. We made a ton! But the sad thing is, no one wants to give us two minutes to talk. Tough, tough, stuff. The lessons started to fall through, no one was home, and depression for the week started to hit. Our prayers were long and desperate. So we started teaching less actives, going to the members, etc. This was really successful and now the members of our branch (not a ward yet) trust us and want to work with us. I sincerely feel our first week's "numbers" weren’t so hot. It's a good thing the mission is not all about numbers! :) That was the first step we needed in this área - trust! Another awesome part about my week is that I am closer with my companion. He was seriously depressed the first week. I offered to give him a blessing and he said: “yeah, that's much needed right about now." I went in a quiet room alone and prayed for the spirit and then gave him a blessing of comfort. Completely guided by the spirit, I've never given a blessing when the words flowed so easily. I teared up as I finished the blessing and saw that my companion also had tears flowing. He gave me a great big hug and thanked me. Made my day! Love my work ... honestly I do.
The hardest thing in my life, but at the same time the Best!
Mom, Dad, Cate, Morgan -
I want you all to know, first hand, my prayers have been answered since I have been on my mission. Mom - with caring for the kids, Dad - with safety, knowledge and strength for a future job. Cate - with work in photography, happiness and success. Morgan - that he’ll get accepted into a Grad school. I truly feel overwhelmed, the Lord has blessed our family greatly.
May we overcome our trials with the help of the Lord. I love our family.
Love you all,
Elder Tyree
2/9 ~ Weekly Email Home ~
Nossa, Esta día foi difícil de mais ~
So, Im in São Paulo now!
All of the new Americans arrived today! So we all had an emergency transfer. It was very quick and painful. So, the reason I'm writing to you so late tonight is because President said it’s alright. This past week Elder Faria and I worked very hard with our investigators. We had 8 investigators with a Baptismal date, and 11 new investigators. President assigned new missionaries in our area. Of course I was sad, I wanted to see the fruits of our efforts. Then it hit me, my purpose as a missionary – INVITE others to come unto Christ. :) We shared our messages with them and did the part the Lord wanted us too. Now, I'm in for a wonderful new challenge. It's time to buckle down and work hard ... to get to know and love our new area.
My new companion Elder Enhique, a great guy, only has 5 months in the mission as well. Life’s great! I actually like transferring because it makes me realize how quickly the time is passing!
I'm sorry to say that once again I don’t have much time, but I'll write your individual emails now.
Mom,
Your B.E.A-utiful. Fact!
Another thing, you can read my mind. I read my blessing about 3 times this week and learned some very important things. Thanks Mamãe! I'm sorry Cate and Morgan are leaving in the morning, but time passes by quickly when you’re busy doing something and Mom - you're always doing something! So, Dad will be home before you know it!
Love you Mom and thanks for your influence on me.
Your son~
Elder Tyree
Dad,
That’s really cool that you had the opportunity to converse with an Afgan Commander about the gospel, or something close to the gospel. The language is coming along. I find myself talking faster and having longer conversations everyday. It really is a gift from our Father in Heaven. The coolest thing that helps is my ability to imitate people. I'm starting to pick up the accent a little better! Life’s good. I'll always remember to be happy.
Love you Papãe,
Elder Tyree.
Cate+Morgan,
I find myself thinking at times that the mission really is going by so fast. I'm starting to forget my life before the mission. The expression, "lose yourself in the work" really does have a sincerity to it. I've been praying for both of you daily. I hope all is well. Thanks for watching my cute baby videos, feel free to share them with other friends. I was one cute baby(Brazilian lol). Stay happy you two love birds.
Love,
Elder Tyree.
Oh and Yes I play a ton of Futebol. As Nacho Libre once said: “Yesssssss, It’s Fantastic."
Love you all -
Elder Tyree - - - Please pray for the success in our new area!
So, Im in São Paulo now!
All of the new Americans arrived today! So we all had an emergency transfer. It was very quick and painful. So, the reason I'm writing to you so late tonight is because President said it’s alright. This past week Elder Faria and I worked very hard with our investigators. We had 8 investigators with a Baptismal date, and 11 new investigators. President assigned new missionaries in our area. Of course I was sad, I wanted to see the fruits of our efforts. Then it hit me, my purpose as a missionary – INVITE others to come unto Christ. :) We shared our messages with them and did the part the Lord wanted us too. Now, I'm in for a wonderful new challenge. It's time to buckle down and work hard ... to get to know and love our new area.
My new companion Elder Enhique, a great guy, only has 5 months in the mission as well. Life’s great! I actually like transferring because it makes me realize how quickly the time is passing!
I'm sorry to say that once again I don’t have much time, but I'll write your individual emails now.
Mom,
Your B.E.A-utiful. Fact!
Another thing, you can read my mind. I read my blessing about 3 times this week and learned some very important things. Thanks Mamãe! I'm sorry Cate and Morgan are leaving in the morning, but time passes by quickly when you’re busy doing something and Mom - you're always doing something! So, Dad will be home before you know it!
Love you Mom and thanks for your influence on me.
Your son~
Elder Tyree
Dad,
That’s really cool that you had the opportunity to converse with an Afgan Commander about the gospel, or something close to the gospel. The language is coming along. I find myself talking faster and having longer conversations everyday. It really is a gift from our Father in Heaven. The coolest thing that helps is my ability to imitate people. I'm starting to pick up the accent a little better! Life’s good. I'll always remember to be happy.
Love you Papãe,
Elder Tyree.
Cate+Morgan,
I find myself thinking at times that the mission really is going by so fast. I'm starting to forget my life before the mission. The expression, "lose yourself in the work" really does have a sincerity to it. I've been praying for both of you daily. I hope all is well. Thanks for watching my cute baby videos, feel free to share them with other friends. I was one cute baby(Brazilian lol). Stay happy you two love birds.
Love,
Elder Tyree.
Oh and Yes I play a ton of Futebol. As Nacho Libre once said: “Yesssssss, It’s Fantastic."
Love you all -
Elder Tyree - - - Please pray for the success in our new area!
2/2 ~ Weekly Email Home ~
E ai minha família ~
The first week of the transfer is already over. Hard to believe né?
It went by kind of slow at first, then picked back up again. I was a little frustrated with some little things my companion was doing and I felt in order for things to pick back up again and for me to be happy, I needed to be 100% loving and helpful. Turns out, that’s what the medicine was! - so life’s good. ;')
My story for the week … I was on a division with the District Leader - Elder B. Santos, which started off great. Then low and behold the rains came! When it rains here, it pours. Similar to Florida, but it doesn’t stop for a day or two. The purpose of our division was to go door to door to meet people and hopefully make some wonderful contacts. I learned quickly that people don’t like coming out of their houses during a rain storm. {haha!}.
However, we met some great, new, investigators - two of whom went to church this past Sunday and loved it. As our day was coming to a close we heard a “pshhw” sound. Usually a sound someone makes here in Brazil when they like you. I’m thinking “awww, great another snaky!". As we turn around we see a man walking towards us. Now I'm thinking “awww great we’re gonna be robbed." (We were in an area we didn’t know very well). Turns out he was a really nice guy that had a sad problem. His house was flooded and we could see it was. His wife was with his 1 year old daughter, and she was crying because she has no diapers. (Sometimes, it's really hard to tell the beggars from the sincere). He asked us if we could buy some diapers for him. He started crying after Santos bought some for him. He said: “Ive never asked someone for money in my life, but I've asked for diapers now." I can honestly say that the spirit guided us both to help this man. Before we left we shared many stories about the gospel with him. He seemed to love us and the gospel we shared. We are praying that he comes to church with his family on Sunday. The other part was we had only a little money left for dinner. As we went to the grocery store we met a couple from a different Ward. I talked with him for quite some time, turns out he served a mission in Fort Lauderdale, Fl. After we grabbed everything we needed they told the woman at the register, “We´ll pay for them." :) The lord is always looking out for us and helping us constantly when we are in need!
Love,
Elder Tyree
The first week of the transfer is already over. Hard to believe né?
It went by kind of slow at first, then picked back up again. I was a little frustrated with some little things my companion was doing and I felt in order for things to pick back up again and for me to be happy, I needed to be 100% loving and helpful. Turns out, that’s what the medicine was! - so life’s good. ;')
My story for the week … I was on a division with the District Leader - Elder B. Santos, which started off great. Then low and behold the rains came! When it rains here, it pours. Similar to Florida, but it doesn’t stop for a day or two. The purpose of our division was to go door to door to meet people and hopefully make some wonderful contacts. I learned quickly that people don’t like coming out of their houses during a rain storm. {haha!}.
However, we met some great, new, investigators - two of whom went to church this past Sunday and loved it. As our day was coming to a close we heard a “pshhw” sound. Usually a sound someone makes here in Brazil when they like you. I’m thinking “awww, great another snaky!". As we turn around we see a man walking towards us. Now I'm thinking “awww great we’re gonna be robbed." (We were in an area we didn’t know very well). Turns out he was a really nice guy that had a sad problem. His house was flooded and we could see it was. His wife was with his 1 year old daughter, and she was crying because she has no diapers. (Sometimes, it's really hard to tell the beggars from the sincere). He asked us if we could buy some diapers for him. He started crying after Santos bought some for him. He said: “Ive never asked someone for money in my life, but I've asked for diapers now." I can honestly say that the spirit guided us both to help this man. Before we left we shared many stories about the gospel with him. He seemed to love us and the gospel we shared. We are praying that he comes to church with his family on Sunday. The other part was we had only a little money left for dinner. As we went to the grocery store we met a couple from a different Ward. I talked with him for quite some time, turns out he served a mission in Fort Lauderdale, Fl. After we grabbed everything we needed they told the woman at the register, “We´ll pay for them." :) The lord is always looking out for us and helping us constantly when we are in need!
Love,
Elder Tyree
Monday, March 15, 2010
1/26 ~ Weekly Email Home ~
Familía, Finalamente ~
This time I'm writing my email in Microsoft word and then sending it to you -Ha, perfect!
So, I was really crushed about the email not working last week. Can you imagine how I felt?? I work all week, then I have the chance to write my family for one day and it didn't send! Ahhhhhhh. I did send you a good "snail mail" letter though, you can put that in the blog if you'd like.
Anyway ... so last week was transfer week. Hard to believe I'm starting my 3rd transfer already, yikes! And … it’s with Elder Faria!! We both are staying for one more transfer.
Yeah, I don’t have to move! Strangely enough this morning I woke up and thought - Elder Faria and I were best friends the first transfer - I dunno if I can handle another 6 weeks without a change? I mean I love the guy, don’t get me wrong. But, after my mission I never want to share my room with another guy again!! - Ha!
You spend the entire day and night working together, whew, I'll just pray for patience and love. {lol}
This week went well, we accomplished the goals we had set, life's good!
Also, I understand and see the love people have for the missionaries. One family started crying when Elder Faria said we were both being transferred. Terrible I know! He felt badly afterwards, but these families are dying to know the gospel and some of the best feelings I get, come from seeing a picture of their baptism, with the missionaries that helped.
Cate - you are the best. Thanks for helping Mom out and letting her get away for a few days. Not to make Morgan jealous or anything (or) for you to get prideful. - But every Elder here wants to write you. :) I tell them that my brother-in-law will kick their butt, or when he needs help I'll kick their butt. Seriously Morgan, ya done good. I love my sister and I love having you in our family. You're both the best, I know the Lord has great things planned for you, may He bless you, in all your times of need.
Your Brother,
Elder Tyree
Dad - Thanks for your letter, hope you know that you really are my hero and best friend! I was thinking of you the other day looking through some family pictures. I thought of a song “worldly music” - sorry, but it’s a good one. “What's a Dad for Dad. Tell me why I'm here Dad, whisper in my ear, that I'm growing up to be a bigger man Dad. Listen when you talk Dad, follow where you walk Dad. Hope you know I'm growing up to be a better man … I can. Father, I will always be, that same boy that stood by the sea and watched you tower over me. Now I'm older I want to be the same as you!”
Love ya Dad,
You raise my spirits with your emails.
Love,
Elder Tyree
Mom …. I hope that your cold, winter weather week went well. {haha the 5 w’s.}
Every time I see a picture of Alli I think of how tall she is and the amazing smile she has.
Love our family a lot.
Momma I have all the packages - life's great! I hope you all have a great week.
Alma 18:21 ~ about family prayer. I like to share this with our members because "ours" were always a hoot. :) Of course I tell them about Mom's laughter during our prayers as well.
Love you mom. Have a great week!
Love,
Elder Tyree
This time I'm writing my email in Microsoft word and then sending it to you -Ha, perfect!
So, I was really crushed about the email not working last week. Can you imagine how I felt?? I work all week, then I have the chance to write my family for one day and it didn't send! Ahhhhhhh. I did send you a good "snail mail" letter though, you can put that in the blog if you'd like.
Anyway ... so last week was transfer week. Hard to believe I'm starting my 3rd transfer already, yikes! And … it’s with Elder Faria!! We both are staying for one more transfer.
Yeah, I don’t have to move! Strangely enough this morning I woke up and thought - Elder Faria and I were best friends the first transfer - I dunno if I can handle another 6 weeks without a change? I mean I love the guy, don’t get me wrong. But, after my mission I never want to share my room with another guy again!! - Ha!
You spend the entire day and night working together, whew, I'll just pray for patience and love. {lol}
This week went well, we accomplished the goals we had set, life's good!
Also, I understand and see the love people have for the missionaries. One family started crying when Elder Faria said we were both being transferred. Terrible I know! He felt badly afterwards, but these families are dying to know the gospel and some of the best feelings I get, come from seeing a picture of their baptism, with the missionaries that helped.
Cate - you are the best. Thanks for helping Mom out and letting her get away for a few days. Not to make Morgan jealous or anything (or) for you to get prideful. - But every Elder here wants to write you. :) I tell them that my brother-in-law will kick their butt, or when he needs help I'll kick their butt. Seriously Morgan, ya done good. I love my sister and I love having you in our family. You're both the best, I know the Lord has great things planned for you, may He bless you, in all your times of need.
Your Brother,
Elder Tyree
Dad - Thanks for your letter, hope you know that you really are my hero and best friend! I was thinking of you the other day looking through some family pictures. I thought of a song “worldly music” - sorry, but it’s a good one. “What's a Dad for Dad. Tell me why I'm here Dad, whisper in my ear, that I'm growing up to be a bigger man Dad. Listen when you talk Dad, follow where you walk Dad. Hope you know I'm growing up to be a better man … I can. Father, I will always be, that same boy that stood by the sea and watched you tower over me. Now I'm older I want to be the same as you!”
Love ya Dad,
You raise my spirits with your emails.
Love,
Elder Tyree
Mom …. I hope that your cold, winter weather week went well. {haha the 5 w’s.}
Every time I see a picture of Alli I think of how tall she is and the amazing smile she has.
Love our family a lot.
Momma I have all the packages - life's great! I hope you all have a great week.
Alma 18:21 ~ about family prayer. I like to share this with our members because "ours" were always a hoot. :) Of course I tell them about Mom's laughter during our prayers as well.
Love you mom. Have a great week!
Love,
Elder Tyree
1/12 ~ Weekly Email Home ~ Part 2
Cate + Morgan,
I've been praying for you both. So, I hope things get better.
Congrats - you get to spend some time with the fam, eh? !!!
I have this really cool "bench press thing" that some missionaries made and left behind. So I work out every morning. I only get to run during futebol once a week. Yes, I play futebol almost every p-day. It really is the best feeling when my companion introduces me and tells the other locals that I play the "real" futebol. Then they say "but he's American?"
Then my companion tells them: "Yeah and he plays better than most Brazilians do!" - haha love my companion! Elder Faria, from Rio de Janiero.
Love you.
You are both in my prayers - have a lot of faith and have a lot of rewards.
Elder Tyree
Dad,
You really are the man!! I almost screamed when I read your note. The first thing I thought was, maybe I'll take a little time to think about what school to go to after my mission. You think you'll have room for your 'lil ole son? :)
I honestly feel like you and Mom both deserve the best {D&C 122}. Your faith and devoted love for the church and our family. I honestly pray that you are blessed even more then you are now. Mom that applies to you as well. I hope that you and Cate have a blast when she visits. You're all in my prayers!
Love,
Elder Tyree
Susan,
Thank you so much for the letter. I wanted to let you know that 3 letters for me went to another missionary, I believe one is from you and one from KT. So, I haven't even had the chance to read them yet. My life couldn't be happier. My mission is the best two years! (period) PS Mom - I received one package THANK YOU ALL, LOVE THE PHOTOS.
Love you all!
Elder Tyree
I've been praying for you both. So, I hope things get better.
Congrats - you get to spend some time with the fam, eh? !!!
I have this really cool "bench press thing" that some missionaries made and left behind. So I work out every morning. I only get to run during futebol once a week. Yes, I play futebol almost every p-day. It really is the best feeling when my companion introduces me and tells the other locals that I play the "real" futebol. Then they say "but he's American?"
Then my companion tells them: "Yeah and he plays better than most Brazilians do!" - haha love my companion! Elder Faria, from Rio de Janiero.
Love you.
You are both in my prayers - have a lot of faith and have a lot of rewards.
Elder Tyree
Dad,
You really are the man!! I almost screamed when I read your note. The first thing I thought was, maybe I'll take a little time to think about what school to go to after my mission. You think you'll have room for your 'lil ole son? :)
I honestly feel like you and Mom both deserve the best {D&C 122}. Your faith and devoted love for the church and our family. I honestly pray that you are blessed even more then you are now. Mom that applies to you as well. I hope that you and Cate have a blast when she visits. You're all in my prayers!
Love,
Elder Tyree
Susan,
Thank you so much for the letter. I wanted to let you know that 3 letters for me went to another missionary, I believe one is from you and one from KT. So, I haven't even had the chance to read them yet. My life couldn't be happier. My mission is the best two years! (period) PS Mom - I received one package THANK YOU ALL, LOVE THE PHOTOS.
Love you all!
Elder Tyree
1/12 ~ Weekly Email Home ~
Oi oi oi Minha Familía ~ Eu estou mutio feliz hoje.
This week went well and the family email really made me happy.
So, first I'll tell you about my week. When I first thought about serving a mission in Brazil, I thought people would just fall into our hands and be "as ready as ever" to hear the gospel. {Ha! - I wish.}
We work hard and get rejected all the time, just like any other mission in the world. It's sad sometimes, we'll work all day - make contacts door to door, because our appointments fell through. Afterwards the thoughts "that went well", run through my mind. Then we return to converse with the people we've contacted, and their not interested because they've talked with their pastors about us. So smiles and testimonies are shared and we move-on to the next house. :) Each time, you want so badly for them to open their hearts and hear this wonderful message. You tell them, if you read the Book of Mormon and pray sincerely then there is absolutely no way that you can think the church isn't true and that Joseph Smith wasn't a true prophet.
Then you get a family who does pray to know, with a desire and fire in their hearts. Awww - it means the world to me and my companion. So the names of this special family are Elaine + Everton + son Miguel. A fairly young family, but they have a few "bumps in the road" in their lives. Not married, smoking, don't go to church, etc. So two weeks ago we had our first meeting. They had already had the first two lessons, but we found out quickly they didn't get much out of it. When we were teaching those lessons with them we really felt the spirit ... and could tell they did too. Afterwards they made a commitment to stop smoking. They're working hard to stop now. This week we met again, we could feel the spirit burning in this family. We spoke of the importance of getting married, and being sealed in the Temple. They have agreed and already set a date to be married. Yesterday, we started the preparation for baptism. (First faith, which they have. Second, repentance).
This was my favorite lesson with the family yet. I can't share all the things we talked about because its personal to them. But Elaine really, really, wants to be baptized. My heart was on fire. I read the day before, a scripture in Alma ... when the prophet Alma had a similar experience as Elaine. As we bore our testimonies about the Savior and how we can be clean through him, joy filled her heart again. She has an interview with our Mission President tomorrow, she's so excited to meet with him and to prepare for her baptism. The best part of my week is knowing that we helped an entire family change their life! Stop smoking, getting married, gaining a testimony, and preparing to be baptized!
Love my life.
Miss everyone.
Love,
Elder Tyree
This week went well and the family email really made me happy.
So, first I'll tell you about my week. When I first thought about serving a mission in Brazil, I thought people would just fall into our hands and be "as ready as ever" to hear the gospel. {Ha! - I wish.}
We work hard and get rejected all the time, just like any other mission in the world. It's sad sometimes, we'll work all day - make contacts door to door, because our appointments fell through. Afterwards the thoughts "that went well", run through my mind. Then we return to converse with the people we've contacted, and their not interested because they've talked with their pastors about us. So smiles and testimonies are shared and we move-on to the next house. :) Each time, you want so badly for them to open their hearts and hear this wonderful message. You tell them, if you read the Book of Mormon and pray sincerely then there is absolutely no way that you can think the church isn't true and that Joseph Smith wasn't a true prophet.
Then you get a family who does pray to know, with a desire and fire in their hearts. Awww - it means the world to me and my companion. So the names of this special family are Elaine + Everton + son Miguel. A fairly young family, but they have a few "bumps in the road" in their lives. Not married, smoking, don't go to church, etc. So two weeks ago we had our first meeting. They had already had the first two lessons, but we found out quickly they didn't get much out of it. When we were teaching those lessons with them we really felt the spirit ... and could tell they did too. Afterwards they made a commitment to stop smoking. They're working hard to stop now. This week we met again, we could feel the spirit burning in this family. We spoke of the importance of getting married, and being sealed in the Temple. They have agreed and already set a date to be married. Yesterday, we started the preparation for baptism. (First faith, which they have. Second, repentance).
This was my favorite lesson with the family yet. I can't share all the things we talked about because its personal to them. But Elaine really, really, wants to be baptized. My heart was on fire. I read the day before, a scripture in Alma ... when the prophet Alma had a similar experience as Elaine. As we bore our testimonies about the Savior and how we can be clean through him, joy filled her heart again. She has an interview with our Mission President tomorrow, she's so excited to meet with him and to prepare for her baptism. The best part of my week is knowing that we helped an entire family change their life! Stop smoking, getting married, gaining a testimony, and preparing to be baptized!
Love my life.
Miss everyone.
Love,
Elder Tyree
1/5 ~ Email Home ~
Two things that made my week stressful - (1.) I never considered that the computer centers aren't open on the 1st of January.
(2.) I just wrote a two page novel to the entire family and the computers crashed.
I lost everything because "myldsmail" can't save emails. {ha! life's funny sometimes}.
So, this week my email time is running out quickly because it took me 25 minutes to read all of the emails, and 10 minutes to write the Mission President. However, this week is off to a great start with lessons in areia branca!
Whoa!
Cate+Morgan ... that was pretty funny about Morgan and the blanket ... but it's all good, if he was watching football. If it was anything else, like a chic-flick then well ... no comment. :)
I'm sorry to hear that you were sick or maybe still are. One day last week I was pretty sick ... but "manned up" and went to work all day ... came back and prayed. Slept amazing that night and have been fine ever since. Ill be praying for you this week, and that Morgan will get into the school he wants too, and that you'll find a job. My goodness Cate, your asking a lot of me?
Love you both,
Elder Tyree
Dad,
You're the man, você é o carra.
I needed to hear about working hard and focusing. It really does make the mission more effective and more meaningful. I have honestly learned so much about the gospel, its awesome to have a conversation with my companion in a different language and have him say: " wow that's so cool, I never thought about that" and visa versa.
Oh, and playing futebol every week is pretty much the best! Love my life. :)
Mom,
I'm so sad about the packages. Seriously stinks ... but I'll be praying for them to show up. You are the best Momma, write it in the newspapers! Best Mom. I can't wait to hear the fam again in a few months, it will fly by, don't worry.
The food is great, house is great, people are great, life's great.
Don't worry - Be happy. :)
Thanks for the Talk from Elder "U". That meant a lot to me + Ben Franklin also, good 'ole Ben.
Love you all so much. Sorry I couldn't write more. Darn Computer!
Elder Tyree
(2.) I just wrote a two page novel to the entire family and the computers crashed.
I lost everything because "myldsmail" can't save emails. {ha! life's funny sometimes}.
So, this week my email time is running out quickly because it took me 25 minutes to read all of the emails, and 10 minutes to write the Mission President. However, this week is off to a great start with lessons in areia branca!
Whoa!
Cate+Morgan ... that was pretty funny about Morgan and the blanket ... but it's all good, if he was watching football. If it was anything else, like a chic-flick then well ... no comment. :)
I'm sorry to hear that you were sick or maybe still are. One day last week I was pretty sick ... but "manned up" and went to work all day ... came back and prayed. Slept amazing that night and have been fine ever since. Ill be praying for you this week, and that Morgan will get into the school he wants too, and that you'll find a job. My goodness Cate, your asking a lot of me?
Love you both,
Elder Tyree
Dad,
You're the man, você é o carra.
I needed to hear about working hard and focusing. It really does make the mission more effective and more meaningful. I have honestly learned so much about the gospel, its awesome to have a conversation with my companion in a different language and have him say: " wow that's so cool, I never thought about that" and visa versa.
Oh, and playing futebol every week is pretty much the best! Love my life. :)
Mom,
I'm so sad about the packages. Seriously stinks ... but I'll be praying for them to show up. You are the best Momma, write it in the newspapers! Best Mom. I can't wait to hear the fam again in a few months, it will fly by, don't worry.
The food is great, house is great, people are great, life's great.
Don't worry - Be happy. :)
Thanks for the Talk from Elder "U". That meant a lot to me + Ben Franklin also, good 'ole Ben.
Love you all so much. Sorry I couldn't write more. Darn Computer!
Elder Tyree
Saturday, January 2, 2010
~ Christmas Letter Home ~ Mission President
Dear Parents,
We hope that your families have a wonderful new year! Two days before Christmas, we met with missionaries in the Sao Paulo area of our mission for a Zone Conference which was very special. After the training and talks of the morning, we had a special nativity program with musical performances from our elders and sisters. We also had a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, we had a talent show. The missionaries in our mission are very talented! During this meeting, the president and I shared our testimonies of the Savior, Jesus Christ. During the conference, we also took a photo of all the missionaries, which I have attached to this email.
Your missionaries are working diligently to further the work of the Lord here in Brazil and we are being blessed with much success. We are grateful for your sacrifice in sending these missionaries--we love them very much! Thank you for raising such young men and women of faith and dedication.
May the Lord’s choicest blessings be with you and your family this New Year and forever!
With love and gratitude,
President and Sister Richardson
*********************************************************************************
Feliz Natal e um Próspero Ano Novo!
Querídos Pais,
Esperamos que vocês e suas famílias tenham um ótimo ano novo! Dois dias antes do Natal, nós reunimos com os missionarios na zona São Paulo em nossa missão para uma conferência de zonas muito especial. Depois de alguns treinamentos e discursos de manhã, tivemos um programa especial sobre a natividade, com músicas cantadas por nossos élderes e sísteres. Em seguida, tivemos um almoço muito gostoso. À tarde, tivemos um show de talentos maravilhoso. Os missionários em nossa missão são muito talentosos! Durante esta reunião, o presidente e eu compartilhamos nossos testemunhos do Salvador Jesus Cristo. É um prazer servir com seus filhos! Durante a conferência, também tiramos uma foto de todos os missionários, que segue em anexo.
Seus filhos missionários estão trabalhando diligentemente para avançar a obra do Senhor aqui, e estamos sendo abençoados com muito sucesso. Nós agradecemos os sacrifícios de vocês para apoiar estes missionários—nós os amamos muito! Obrigado por criarem esses jovens tão fiéis e dedicados!
Que possam receber as maiores bênçãos do Senhor nesse ano novo e para todo o sempre.
Com amor e gratidão,
Presidente e Sister Richardson
We hope that your families have a wonderful new year! Two days before Christmas, we met with missionaries in the Sao Paulo area of our mission for a Zone Conference which was very special. After the training and talks of the morning, we had a special nativity program with musical performances from our elders and sisters. We also had a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, we had a talent show. The missionaries in our mission are very talented! During this meeting, the president and I shared our testimonies of the Savior, Jesus Christ. During the conference, we also took a photo of all the missionaries, which I have attached to this email.
Your missionaries are working diligently to further the work of the Lord here in Brazil and we are being blessed with much success. We are grateful for your sacrifice in sending these missionaries--we love them very much! Thank you for raising such young men and women of faith and dedication.
May the Lord’s choicest blessings be with you and your family this New Year and forever!
With love and gratitude,
President and Sister Richardson
*********************************************************************************
Feliz Natal e um Próspero Ano Novo!
Querídos Pais,
Esperamos que vocês e suas famílias tenham um ótimo ano novo! Dois dias antes do Natal, nós reunimos com os missionarios na zona São Paulo em nossa missão para uma conferência de zonas muito especial. Depois de alguns treinamentos e discursos de manhã, tivemos um programa especial sobre a natividade, com músicas cantadas por nossos élderes e sísteres. Em seguida, tivemos um almoço muito gostoso. À tarde, tivemos um show de talentos maravilhoso. Os missionários em nossa missão são muito talentosos! Durante esta reunião, o presidente e eu compartilhamos nossos testemunhos do Salvador Jesus Cristo. É um prazer servir com seus filhos! Durante a conferência, também tiramos uma foto de todos os missionários, que segue em anexo.
Seus filhos missionários estão trabalhando diligentemente para avançar a obra do Senhor aqui, e estamos sendo abençoados com muito sucesso. Nós agradecemos os sacrifícios de vocês para apoiar estes missionários—nós os amamos muito! Obrigado por criarem esses jovens tão fiéis e dedicados!
Que possam receber as maiores bênçãos do Senhor nesse ano novo e para todo o sempre.
Com amor e gratidão,
Presidente e Sister Richardson
Friday, January 1, 2010
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