Aloha and Happy Valentines
Yes, what a wonderful week to think about those we love. I got an early dose on Saturday when a package arrived for me (thank you Aubree!). I have cookies now, so I guess I will continue working on getting fat out here... Actually, I have been pretty happy that I have been able to maintain my weight pretty well the last few weeks since I got to Kauai.
Anyways, life continues in Kapaa with some interesting experiences. I decided this last week that if Adrian Monk and Jar Jar Binks were to have a child, and that child loved to do yoga, it would be my companion, Elder Bagley. We are getting along well, but we are an interesting pair to say the least. He is from Centerville and doesn't think that he has any family from Koosherum (I've never been able to spell that right), so I doubt he is part of that clan.
Things continue to go with Jack, Sandy, and Tylor. Tylor was sick yesterday and wasn't able to come to church. Unfortunatley Jack took that excuse and went fishing all day. Like it has been said many times before, we can't force him (but how I wish we could). I just wish I could make him see the importance, and how what he is doing is going to do nothing but harm. Guess that is the joy of missionary work.
Sandy seems to progress, but I still get the feeling that she doesn't quite understand some of the teachings of the church. We continue to work with her, and hopefully she will be moving out of the house soon. I think her getting out will be the best for her, for Jack, and for Tylor. There is so much drama in that house so often that you can feel it push the spirit away.
As for Brenda, we actually hadn't seen much of her recently, and found out from her fellowshipper that she was kinda avoiding us. She loves family home evening, but felt church was too.... churchy (umm.... yeah). She did come yesterday, and seemed to enjoy it. It looks like it is going to take some time and work with her. But, thats what we do!
We were actually able to find quite a few people this last week. We ran into a part member/less active family that we started teaching the sons this last week, but the mom (non-member) is actually interested and starting to read the Book of Mormon. We are also starting to work with a couple people from a Thai family. There is a bit of a language barrier, but they seem to accept what we say.
We ran into an interesting lady this last week. I think she is either a less-active member, or excommunicated. She seems like she likes the church, but considers herself an escapee... oh well. She cut open a coconut and let us drink the coconut water inside, which is pretty good. By the end of our conversation with her, we concluded she was a hippy and really strange. We'll see what we can do to help her and maybe bring her back.
So, our big event for the week was a musical fireside we held last night. We had five different musical numbers, and four speakers. It was a really good evening, and we pushed hard for members to come and bring their non-member friends... Lets just say that we need to get our ward used to missionary firesides. We didn't have the greatest turn out, but it went well and those who were there liked it!
I hope you are all doing well and staying warm! I love you all and am so thankful for all your support and love! Stay strong, and remember that the Lord has put us where we need to be and when. We may not know why, but He does. Love you!
Elder Kidd
Mom, could you possibly find me the name of a dentist out here that is covered by the insurance so I can go get my 6 month cleaning? Thank you!
Monday, June 8, 2009
02/09/09
Aloha Leavitts!
How is my favorite Leavitt family doing? It was wonderful to get all of your letters. I hope you don't mind getting an email as a response. This way you get it sooner!
Hawaii is great, and very warm. I do eat a lot of fish out here, but the thing I eat the most of is.... rice. We eat a lot of rice out here. With almost every meal. It is a staple food (meaning on of the main in the diet). Most people don't eat potatoes at all though. Also spam. The funniest part is that I am actually starting to like spam a bit.
So, I am actually not learning a language out here. I am speaking english. I do have to learn how to pronounce some names though. Like Kuamo'o does not sound like a cow sound. It sounds like coo (like a pigeon cooing) a (like a normal a in a sentance) mo (like, I want some mo'), and then one more o (like the letter name). Crazy huh?
It sounds like you are all having fun, but it is weird to think that you are going to take seminary Sydni. If you go to the high school seminary building for any reason, look for my picture on the big world map. And Kenzie, pick good classes. No more recess for you.
I hope you are all doing well. Thanks for your prayers, your letters, and support. Keep strong, and love the Lord.
Your uncle/brother/weirdo
Elder Kidd
How is my favorite Leavitt family doing? It was wonderful to get all of your letters. I hope you don't mind getting an email as a response. This way you get it sooner!
Hawaii is great, and very warm. I do eat a lot of fish out here, but the thing I eat the most of is.... rice. We eat a lot of rice out here. With almost every meal. It is a staple food (meaning on of the main in the diet). Most people don't eat potatoes at all though. Also spam. The funniest part is that I am actually starting to like spam a bit.
So, I am actually not learning a language out here. I am speaking english. I do have to learn how to pronounce some names though. Like Kuamo'o does not sound like a cow sound. It sounds like coo (like a pigeon cooing) a (like a normal a in a sentance) mo (like, I want some mo'), and then one more o (like the letter name). Crazy huh?
It sounds like you are all having fun, but it is weird to think that you are going to take seminary Sydni. If you go to the high school seminary building for any reason, look for my picture on the big world map. And Kenzie, pick good classes. No more recess for you.
I hope you are all doing well. Thanks for your prayers, your letters, and support. Keep strong, and love the Lord.
Your uncle/brother/weirdo
Elder Kidd
02/02/09
Alohas and happy birthdays
Well, happy birthday to everyone who has had a birthday that I didn't tell happy birthday (which means everyone in the last little bit). I hope you all had an enjoyable day, and know that I was in Hawaii celebrating your birthday... : )
So, life has changed quite a bit in the Kapaa 1st ward in only one week. Slightly contrary to your comment dad(I have been getting your emails, sorry I didn't mention that), I wasn't really getting along with Elder Higley at the end of my last transfer, so this new companion was actually exciting. His name is Elder Bagley. He is a wonderful kid, has a heart of gold, is more of a nerd than I am, and I love him. We are getting along really well, are working in unity, and are having quite a bit of success. He is really into computers (he built them for a while) and loves everyone. He is a bit awkward, but so am I. There really needs to be a spell checker on this program.
So, as for the success... Jack and Sandy both love Elder Bagley. They think he is wonderful. Sandy continues to progress, and really wants to be baptised. She might be able to move out of the house in about 2 weeks, so hopefully we will be baptising her in 5. We had a good lesson, and things seem to be going really well for her.
Jack continues to come along, and I think we finally got it through his head that he needs to pray and ask about the Book of Mormon. It seems so simple doesn't it? But we spent a bit of time discussing that last night, which led to the biggest miracle of the week...
We had started talking to Tylor, Jack's son when we went over. We had gone over a couple of times, and Tylor was the only one at home, so we would teach him. Well, we read the a couple chapters from the Book of Mormon with him, left him a couple to read, and committed him to pray. Well, last night while we were telling Jack he needs to pray, Jack turned to Tylor and asked him: "Have you read?"
"Yes"
"And you prayed about it."
"Yes"
"Did you get an answer?"
"Yeah"
"What, you gonna get baptised?"
"Yeah, what date?"
............
So, Tylor is going to be baptised on the 20th of February. It truely was a miracle. Jack still isn't sure yet, but I am sure that Tylor being baptised will definatley be something to get jack rolling in the right direction. The Lord works in His own way, and in His own time. It was so much more special for me because I have been here the whole 12 weeks we have been working with them, and to see a sincere desire shows that our work has not been in vain. Once again, it shows the power of the Book of Mormon as well.
So, things are moving well in that house now. We also have had some success trying to find people on our own. We have found some good potential investigators, but yesterday really was the all around miracle day. Aside from Tylor's story, and that he and Jack came to church, we had some good tracting experiences. We found one less-active family that used to be super-missionary minded that had a bad ward and stopped coming to church. Though they didn't come yesterday, I have a lot of hope and we are eating dinner with them on Wednesday.
We also found a family that seems really interested yesterday. The only problem is that they all speak Thai, and only about 3 speak english. They really seem interested in eternal families though, so we are finding some Thai Books of Mormon for them. We can only teach them about once a week because they are so busy though, so it may take some time.
As for other stuff, I love my water-pick for one. I don't think I will ever be able to make myself floss again. Also, I finished the book Jesus the Christ this morning, and it is really good for anyone who wants to study about the savior's life.
One really cool thing with this last transfer is that Elder Trujillo (I lived in the same pad as him for my first 8 weeks. He and I kept each other from going insane) is now on Kauai, so we are going to have way too much fun together. He is awesome, and we get along so well.
I hope all is going well on the home front. As always, remember the Lord, and at this time of economic trials, remember tithing. The Lord will never let us fail if we are doing all that He has asked of us. Tithing may seem hard when money is in short supply, but the Lord opens the windows of heaven and pours out blessings. Don't be afraid to do what He has asked. I love you all, and thanks for your support and love!
Elder Kidd
Well, happy birthday to everyone who has had a birthday that I didn't tell happy birthday (which means everyone in the last little bit). I hope you all had an enjoyable day, and know that I was in Hawaii celebrating your birthday... : )
So, life has changed quite a bit in the Kapaa 1st ward in only one week. Slightly contrary to your comment dad(I have been getting your emails, sorry I didn't mention that), I wasn't really getting along with Elder Higley at the end of my last transfer, so this new companion was actually exciting. His name is Elder Bagley. He is a wonderful kid, has a heart of gold, is more of a nerd than I am, and I love him. We are getting along really well, are working in unity, and are having quite a bit of success. He is really into computers (he built them for a while) and loves everyone. He is a bit awkward, but so am I. There really needs to be a spell checker on this program.
So, as for the success... Jack and Sandy both love Elder Bagley. They think he is wonderful. Sandy continues to progress, and really wants to be baptised. She might be able to move out of the house in about 2 weeks, so hopefully we will be baptising her in 5. We had a good lesson, and things seem to be going really well for her.
Jack continues to come along, and I think we finally got it through his head that he needs to pray and ask about the Book of Mormon. It seems so simple doesn't it? But we spent a bit of time discussing that last night, which led to the biggest miracle of the week...
We had started talking to Tylor, Jack's son when we went over. We had gone over a couple of times, and Tylor was the only one at home, so we would teach him. Well, we read the a couple chapters from the Book of Mormon with him, left him a couple to read, and committed him to pray. Well, last night while we were telling Jack he needs to pray, Jack turned to Tylor and asked him: "Have you read?"
"Yes"
"And you prayed about it."
"Yes"
"Did you get an answer?"
"Yeah"
"What, you gonna get baptised?"
"Yeah, what date?"
............
So, Tylor is going to be baptised on the 20th of February. It truely was a miracle. Jack still isn't sure yet, but I am sure that Tylor being baptised will definatley be something to get jack rolling in the right direction. The Lord works in His own way, and in His own time. It was so much more special for me because I have been here the whole 12 weeks we have been working with them, and to see a sincere desire shows that our work has not been in vain. Once again, it shows the power of the Book of Mormon as well.
So, things are moving well in that house now. We also have had some success trying to find people on our own. We have found some good potential investigators, but yesterday really was the all around miracle day. Aside from Tylor's story, and that he and Jack came to church, we had some good tracting experiences. We found one less-active family that used to be super-missionary minded that had a bad ward and stopped coming to church. Though they didn't come yesterday, I have a lot of hope and we are eating dinner with them on Wednesday.
We also found a family that seems really interested yesterday. The only problem is that they all speak Thai, and only about 3 speak english. They really seem interested in eternal families though, so we are finding some Thai Books of Mormon for them. We can only teach them about once a week because they are so busy though, so it may take some time.
As for other stuff, I love my water-pick for one. I don't think I will ever be able to make myself floss again. Also, I finished the book Jesus the Christ this morning, and it is really good for anyone who wants to study about the savior's life.
One really cool thing with this last transfer is that Elder Trujillo (I lived in the same pad as him for my first 8 weeks. He and I kept each other from going insane) is now on Kauai, so we are going to have way too much fun together. He is awesome, and we get along so well.
I hope all is going well on the home front. As always, remember the Lord, and at this time of economic trials, remember tithing. The Lord will never let us fail if we are doing all that He has asked of us. Tithing may seem hard when money is in short supply, but the Lord opens the windows of heaven and pours out blessings. Don't be afraid to do what He has asked. I love you all, and thanks for your support and love!
Elder Kidd
01/26/09
Aloha and transfers....
Six weeks have gone by since Elder Higley joined my life, and it is transfers again. We found out this morning that....(drumroll please...) I am staying in Kapa'a 1st ward, and he is transfering on the island somewhere. We all pretty much decided that means that he is going to Kekaha (an area they recently closed to move Elders to North Shore area). It is a walking/bike area, so he is rather happy about that. It will be sad to see him go, but I am sure he will do well. Now I am just wondering who in the world I am going to be with.
This last week brought about some interesting events. First of all, Sandy wants to get baptised, and understands the right reasons for it now. The biggest problem is that she is living with Jack, and they aren't about to get married. She has to have been living somewhere else for three weeks prior to her baptism. We hope she is making progress, but there is so much drama in that house, that I will tell you more about later.
I did get to see Brenda at FHE though, and she is doing well. She is reading, has questions, and promised me that she is not avoiding us, but is really busy, which I can believe. She wasn't able to come to church yesterday because she ran into a lady from the church she used to be part of, who wants to leave her husband because of the church. That religion is scarey, and is creating a lot of fun things for us. Brenda is watching out for that lady because she is terrified, so we could understand her not coming. We half hoped she would bring her to church, but I'm sure religion right now is not a fond thing in her mind. But, there is much potenial! Choke potential bra.
But, back to Jack and Sandy and that household since we are working so much with them. Wednesday we actually went over to do some service. Well, everyone was gone or leaving, so we let ourselves inside the house and proceeded to clean all the floors in the front room. They have two dogs that live inside, and are not the cleanest family, but fortunately it is all tile flooring. It still took us a good 2-3 hours though, but it looked great, and Jack is very grateful.
We also managed to get Jack, Sandy, and Rich (Jack's tenant who lives downstairs) to church yesterday. Rich is a fantastic kid and has a girlfriend that he wants to marry. Well, we thought she would come with him as well, but apparently she canceled last minute, which really bummed him out. He had a good talk with our bishop though, and got a priesthood blessing. He has so much potential right now.
Yet the drama continues with Jack and Sandy. Jack's son, Tylor, and Sandy's son, Keahi, don't get along. In fact, Keahi has a bad habit of stealing things from most people in the house, smoking, drugs, etc. and Sandy continues to turn a blind eye. Keahi is the reason that Jack came to church with bloody knuckles one week (they got in an argument, and Jack took out his frustrations on a DVD player...). So, Tylor came home from his mom's house last night and told Jack he needed a break from the house and he was going to live with his mom for a bit. Jack was really sad, but he understood why. He decided to go to an AA meeting, and Sandy started accusing him of things, so he got a bit upset. All we heard at first was that Tylor didn't want to live there anymore, and Jack was upset and said he was going to a meeting, so we rushed over to the house and called the other elders as well. Well, Jack went to the meeting, he was calm, but seriously mad at Sandy. He keeps saying he is trying to be loving like Christ, but Elder Higley and I felt prompted to remind him that Christ cleared the temple. We will see what happens, but hopefully Sandy will be moving out very soon, for both of their sakes. When that happens, I think both will do a lot better.
We did get Jack to finally accept that the Book of Mormon might be true yesterday though. We went over after church to see him, and read with him the story of Ammon. While we were reading, he told us he kept thinking that there was no way Joseph Smith could have made all of this up. He must have translated it. So, serious step forward. It is marvelous how reading the Book of Mormon really does change peoples lives, and their minds.
On a funny note, to commemorate my 6 month mark (and my district leader commemoration his 18 month mark) we both played pyro over Jack's nasty pool last friday. I burned my a tie that Elder York gave me (it really was hideous) and Elder Kaiser burned some pants we found in our pad that were really beat up. I used a lot of WD40, and he used some spray glue stuff. Well, mine was under control and fun, his turned into a fireball almost 10 feet high, and he dropped
the burning pants in the pool (where they continued to burn for a little bit). Then we went inside and watched the family slide show with Jack. The slide show was great! It was so fun to look back and remember and see what pictures made it in. I was just wishing at the end Tyler could have put a picture from Hawaii as the last frame with IZ singing somewhere over the rainbow. Jack really liked it, and noticed a lot of how the gospel has blessed our family. He was also
wondering if he could get the music from it on a cd... Tyler... please?
Thank you everyone for your support, prayers, more prayers, and more support. Remember the line part from Cast Away where we reflect on how we just keep living each day, and see what the tide brings in. Some times there are storms that bring nothing but sticks, logs, and other junk on the shore, but perhaps one day we may find a clam with a pearl inside, or a sail to help us sail through our current trials. The Lord uses what He uses to give us what we need. He knows us and loves us, and does what He can for us, but as Jack and Sandy show, He will not force happiness on us. We must make the effort to grab it and do everything we can for it, and then He will bless us. "Prove me herewith if I will not open up the windows of heaven and poor you out a blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it." It isn't just for tithing. He promises us that for every trial we go through. What a great Lord and Father we have.
I love you all. Remember the Lord in all you do, and thank you for all you do.
Elder Kidd
Six weeks have gone by since Elder Higley joined my life, and it is transfers again. We found out this morning that....(drumroll please...) I am staying in Kapa'a 1st ward, and he is transfering on the island somewhere. We all pretty much decided that means that he is going to Kekaha (an area they recently closed to move Elders to North Shore area). It is a walking/bike area, so he is rather happy about that. It will be sad to see him go, but I am sure he will do well. Now I am just wondering who in the world I am going to be with.
This last week brought about some interesting events. First of all, Sandy wants to get baptised, and understands the right reasons for it now. The biggest problem is that she is living with Jack, and they aren't about to get married. She has to have been living somewhere else for three weeks prior to her baptism. We hope she is making progress, but there is so much drama in that house, that I will tell you more about later.
I did get to see Brenda at FHE though, and she is doing well. She is reading, has questions, and promised me that she is not avoiding us, but is really busy, which I can believe. She wasn't able to come to church yesterday because she ran into a lady from the church she used to be part of, who wants to leave her husband because of the church. That religion is scarey, and is creating a lot of fun things for us. Brenda is watching out for that lady because she is terrified, so we could understand her not coming. We half hoped she would bring her to church, but I'm sure religion right now is not a fond thing in her mind. But, there is much potenial! Choke potential bra.
But, back to Jack and Sandy and that household since we are working so much with them. Wednesday we actually went over to do some service. Well, everyone was gone or leaving, so we let ourselves inside the house and proceeded to clean all the floors in the front room. They have two dogs that live inside, and are not the cleanest family, but fortunately it is all tile flooring. It still took us a good 2-3 hours though, but it looked great, and Jack is very grateful.
We also managed to get Jack, Sandy, and Rich (Jack's tenant who lives downstairs) to church yesterday. Rich is a fantastic kid and has a girlfriend that he wants to marry. Well, we thought she would come with him as well, but apparently she canceled last minute, which really bummed him out. He had a good talk with our bishop though, and got a priesthood blessing. He has so much potential right now.
Yet the drama continues with Jack and Sandy. Jack's son, Tylor, and Sandy's son, Keahi, don't get along. In fact, Keahi has a bad habit of stealing things from most people in the house, smoking, drugs, etc. and Sandy continues to turn a blind eye. Keahi is the reason that Jack came to church with bloody knuckles one week (they got in an argument, and Jack took out his frustrations on a DVD player...). So, Tylor came home from his mom's house last night and told Jack he needed a break from the house and he was going to live with his mom for a bit. Jack was really sad, but he understood why. He decided to go to an AA meeting, and Sandy started accusing him of things, so he got a bit upset. All we heard at first was that Tylor didn't want to live there anymore, and Jack was upset and said he was going to a meeting, so we rushed over to the house and called the other elders as well. Well, Jack went to the meeting, he was calm, but seriously mad at Sandy. He keeps saying he is trying to be loving like Christ, but Elder Higley and I felt prompted to remind him that Christ cleared the temple. We will see what happens, but hopefully Sandy will be moving out very soon, for both of their sakes. When that happens, I think both will do a lot better.
We did get Jack to finally accept that the Book of Mormon might be true yesterday though. We went over after church to see him, and read with him the story of Ammon. While we were reading, he told us he kept thinking that there was no way Joseph Smith could have made all of this up. He must have translated it. So, serious step forward. It is marvelous how reading the Book of Mormon really does change peoples lives, and their minds.
On a funny note, to commemorate my 6 month mark (and my district leader commemoration his 18 month mark) we both played pyro over Jack's nasty pool last friday. I burned my a tie that Elder York gave me (it really was hideous) and Elder Kaiser burned some pants we found in our pad that were really beat up. I used a lot of WD40, and he used some spray glue stuff. Well, mine was under control and fun, his turned into a fireball almost 10 feet high, and he dropped
the burning pants in the pool (where they continued to burn for a little bit). Then we went inside and watched the family slide show with Jack. The slide show was great! It was so fun to look back and remember and see what pictures made it in. I was just wishing at the end Tyler could have put a picture from Hawaii as the last frame with IZ singing somewhere over the rainbow. Jack really liked it, and noticed a lot of how the gospel has blessed our family. He was also
wondering if he could get the music from it on a cd... Tyler... please?
Thank you everyone for your support, prayers, more prayers, and more support. Remember the line part from Cast Away where we reflect on how we just keep living each day, and see what the tide brings in. Some times there are storms that bring nothing but sticks, logs, and other junk on the shore, but perhaps one day we may find a clam with a pearl inside, or a sail to help us sail through our current trials. The Lord uses what He uses to give us what we need. He knows us and loves us, and does what He can for us, but as Jack and Sandy show, He will not force happiness on us. We must make the effort to grab it and do everything we can for it, and then He will bless us. "Prove me herewith if I will not open up the windows of heaven and poor you out a blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it." It isn't just for tithing. He promises us that for every trial we go through. What a great Lord and Father we have.
I love you all. Remember the Lord in all you do, and thank you for all you do.
Elder Kidd
01/19/09
Aloha
As usual, aloha from beautiful Kauai. I have felt like a pansy lately because I was getting cold. Yeah, it was about 60 when I woke up yesterday, and we were freezing. One member did point out that aside from the blood thining out here, there is no insulation or heaters in houses, so we really feel it. Still, I'm sure I'm not going to get any pity from those that are in 32 or below
weather....
So, I didn't share about an experience that happened to me about two weeks ago, because I was asked to wait. A tourist couple came to the church looking for a time that they could come to church the next day. Luckily Elder Higley and I were eating dinner, so we were there. They asked, we told them, and came out to point them in the direction of the chapel. Well, as they were leaving, they asked Elder Higley where he was from, and then I asked where they were from.
"Utah."
"What part?"
"Salt Lake,"
"What part?"
"West Valley"
"Wow!" (high fives). "Where abouts?"
"Over by valley fair mall"
"Oh, I live out by about 6200 W" (I realize now that was way off, but that is
what I said)
"That's by my school, Hillside Elementary"
"That's where my mom works, Gloria Kidd"
"She's a secretary there! I teach there. I'm Mrs. Jackman" (formerly known as
Ms. Twitchel)
So, we proceded to talk, she wanted a picture, and asked me if i wanted to write a letter, so I wrote a very brief one and stuck it in an envelope with a 4 gb flash drive for my mom. What are the odds?
But, anyway. This last week has been an interesting one. We still haven't been able to meet with brenda recently, but hopefully I will see her tonight. We are actually doing a split tonight so that I can go to FHE and elder higley can teach Sandy. Sandy wants to be baptised, but doesn't see a need to be baptised... or basically, she wants to be a mormon, but doesn't know the church
is true. Hopefully elder higley can fix that tonight.
Our lesson with Jack and Sandy went well, but not so much for Sandy. We spent a lot of time talking about the spirit world and baptisms for the dead, hoping that Sandy would feel the spirit and want to have her daughter baptised. Well, she feels that her daughter was baptised catholic, and doesn't see a need for her to be baptised again... Problem... Jack on the other hand liked what we said, and though he is a little confused with some things right now, promised he would continue to learn and when he knew it was right, he would be baptised. He sees baptism as a big thing, and wants to know he is doing it for the right reason. The really cool thing was Jack's son, tyler, who shared with me a really special dream he had, and started crying after the lesson. He asked for a few minutes alone in the chapel, and when I looked back through the doors, he was praying. He is such a great kid, and has a lot of potential.
Other things went a little slow last week, but we continue to do all that we can for our investigators and members. Last friday we went and taught a less active lady with Keola Alalem (sometimes known as worthington). He is interesting, but is our ward missionary. The lesson went well, but the lady didn't come to church. She was baptised about ten years ago by two elders. One was Elder Cox from Hurricane, Utah. Sound familiar to anyone? Do we know this person? How small a world is it? I don't think they taught extremely well so that she
understood though, and it has made things difficult now.
Today is interesting. I am actually typing from the Allen's because the libraries are closed since it is Human Rights day. We might actually be going up with the family to a little pond where they will go swimming later (we'll relax). We'll see what happens. I hope everyone is doing well. I love you all so much and am thankful for your many prayers. Living the gospel brings so many blessings. Remember Captain Moroni: If all men had, were, and would be like unto Captain Moroni, the very power of Hell would have been shaken forever, and the devil never would have had power over the hearts of children of men. Let us all strive to be like unto Captain Moroni.
Elder Kidd
The beach in that picture I believe is on Kauai mom, but it is not a very good one, especially after the recent storms. It is covered in branches, but there are some better ones. Also, can anyone see if they can find the music for Voicemale's version of How firm a foundation? Thank you! Love you!
As usual, aloha from beautiful Kauai. I have felt like a pansy lately because I was getting cold. Yeah, it was about 60 when I woke up yesterday, and we were freezing. One member did point out that aside from the blood thining out here, there is no insulation or heaters in houses, so we really feel it. Still, I'm sure I'm not going to get any pity from those that are in 32 or below
weather....
So, I didn't share about an experience that happened to me about two weeks ago, because I was asked to wait. A tourist couple came to the church looking for a time that they could come to church the next day. Luckily Elder Higley and I were eating dinner, so we were there. They asked, we told them, and came out to point them in the direction of the chapel. Well, as they were leaving, they asked Elder Higley where he was from, and then I asked where they were from.
"Utah."
"What part?"
"Salt Lake,"
"What part?"
"West Valley"
"Wow!" (high fives). "Where abouts?"
"Over by valley fair mall"
"Oh, I live out by about 6200 W" (I realize now that was way off, but that is
what I said)
"That's by my school, Hillside Elementary"
"That's where my mom works, Gloria Kidd"
"She's a secretary there! I teach there. I'm Mrs. Jackman" (formerly known as
Ms. Twitchel)
So, we proceded to talk, she wanted a picture, and asked me if i wanted to write a letter, so I wrote a very brief one and stuck it in an envelope with a 4 gb flash drive for my mom. What are the odds?
But, anyway. This last week has been an interesting one. We still haven't been able to meet with brenda recently, but hopefully I will see her tonight. We are actually doing a split tonight so that I can go to FHE and elder higley can teach Sandy. Sandy wants to be baptised, but doesn't see a need to be baptised... or basically, she wants to be a mormon, but doesn't know the church
is true. Hopefully elder higley can fix that tonight.
Our lesson with Jack and Sandy went well, but not so much for Sandy. We spent a lot of time talking about the spirit world and baptisms for the dead, hoping that Sandy would feel the spirit and want to have her daughter baptised. Well, she feels that her daughter was baptised catholic, and doesn't see a need for her to be baptised again... Problem... Jack on the other hand liked what we said, and though he is a little confused with some things right now, promised he would continue to learn and when he knew it was right, he would be baptised. He sees baptism as a big thing, and wants to know he is doing it for the right reason. The really cool thing was Jack's son, tyler, who shared with me a really special dream he had, and started crying after the lesson. He asked for a few minutes alone in the chapel, and when I looked back through the doors, he was praying. He is such a great kid, and has a lot of potential.
Other things went a little slow last week, but we continue to do all that we can for our investigators and members. Last friday we went and taught a less active lady with Keola Alalem (sometimes known as worthington). He is interesting, but is our ward missionary. The lesson went well, but the lady didn't come to church. She was baptised about ten years ago by two elders. One was Elder Cox from Hurricane, Utah. Sound familiar to anyone? Do we know this person? How small a world is it? I don't think they taught extremely well so that she
understood though, and it has made things difficult now.
Today is interesting. I am actually typing from the Allen's because the libraries are closed since it is Human Rights day. We might actually be going up with the family to a little pond where they will go swimming later (we'll relax). We'll see what happens. I hope everyone is doing well. I love you all so much and am thankful for your many prayers. Living the gospel brings so many blessings. Remember Captain Moroni: If all men had, were, and would be like unto Captain Moroni, the very power of Hell would have been shaken forever, and the devil never would have had power over the hearts of children of men. Let us all strive to be like unto Captain Moroni.
Elder Kidd
The beach in that picture I believe is on Kauai mom, but it is not a very good one, especially after the recent storms. It is covered in branches, but there are some better ones. Also, can anyone see if they can find the music for Voicemale's version of How firm a foundation? Thank you! Love you!
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
01/12/09
Aloha!!
It has definately been an interesting week. Elder Higley and I are still getting along well, and are starting to make some good strides. The work in our ward is really starting to get rolling, and the members are starting to get excited about it as well. A lot of them are worried about the economy, but I think missionary work helps soothe some of those worries.
Anyways, the big event this last week was zone conference on Wednesday. The spirit was very strong, and I think everyone left more determined to be the best they could. The next day Elder Higley and I spent about 4 hours planning for this week and the rest of our time in Kapaa. We set a lot of goals and commitments. We also really studied for a lesson with Jack and Sandy that we are going to have this next Wednesday. With the death of the daughter, Jack and Sandy are both really wondering what happens after we die, so we are going to have a nice long lesson with them in the chapel to answer that question.
Something really interesting (and fairly scarey) happened yesterday. Elder Higley called Jack to make sure he was coming to church. All Jack said when he picked up the phone was "I'm pao" meaning I'm done. Then he hung up. We didn't know what was going on, but we were nervous to call back. Sandy was in sacrament meeting, but Jack wasn't. She told us that he was working with Micah (the Jehova Witness friend). We were still worried that he didn't want to talk to us anymore, but figured we couldn't do anything while at church but pray. Before sacrament meeting was over, though, I saw Jack walking outside of the chapel. After sacrament finished, Elder Higley and I went to try to find him. Elder HIgley found him sitting in a truck, and told me. I was on my way over when our bishop found me and asked about him. We both started for the truck, and noticed that Sandy was right by it and looked really worried, and Jack looked very serious. When bishop and I got there, I realized that his knuckles were all cut up. Our bishop talked to him, and they went into the bishops office. He later told us that they talked for a long time, bishop gave Jack a blessing, and his whole countinence changed at the end. We called last night, and he was busy, but we are really looking forward to teaching him again on Wednesday, or seeing him tomorrow.
While Jack was in with the bishop, Sandy was talking to Bro. Thronus (who introduced Elder York and I to her so long ago). They talked about baptism, and she really wants to learn more about the church and perhaps be baptised. Elder Higley and I are extremely excited now.
Unfortunately, Elder Higley and I were not able to teach Brenda last week, and she didn't come to church. We haven't been able to get ahold of her, but she should be at FHE tonight, so we can talk to her then. She was still nice towards us last time we called. I am just hoping that something came up and she is still ok. I still have a really good feeling about Brenda.
So, mail has finally been figured out, and it is back on its usual track. I got my package last Thursday (technically it arrived on Wednesday, but I couldn't pick it up until Thursday) and thank you so much! I am guessing that the twinkies are from stacie, and I know the m&ms were from Tiff, but I have no idea where the others were given from. But thank you all! I actually opened it at a members house, and the wife took pictures of me as I opened it. She found it
absolutely hilarious.
Today is going to be a fun day. After we finish doing email, we are on our way to the chapel in a town called Kaleheo, which has a really steep hill. They have set up a water slide there, and we are going to have some fun. I bought some board shorts this morning specifically for it. They have done it before, and said that it was a blast.
I hope everyone is doing well. I look forward to seeing the family DVD when it arrives. Thank you everyone for your prayers and support. I pray for you all, and love you. Keep your faith in the Lord, and miricles happen.
Elder Kidd
It has definately been an interesting week. Elder Higley and I are still getting along well, and are starting to make some good strides. The work in our ward is really starting to get rolling, and the members are starting to get excited about it as well. A lot of them are worried about the economy, but I think missionary work helps soothe some of those worries.
Anyways, the big event this last week was zone conference on Wednesday. The spirit was very strong, and I think everyone left more determined to be the best they could. The next day Elder Higley and I spent about 4 hours planning for this week and the rest of our time in Kapaa. We set a lot of goals and commitments. We also really studied for a lesson with Jack and Sandy that we are going to have this next Wednesday. With the death of the daughter, Jack and Sandy are both really wondering what happens after we die, so we are going to have a nice long lesson with them in the chapel to answer that question.
Something really interesting (and fairly scarey) happened yesterday. Elder Higley called Jack to make sure he was coming to church. All Jack said when he picked up the phone was "I'm pao" meaning I'm done. Then he hung up. We didn't know what was going on, but we were nervous to call back. Sandy was in sacrament meeting, but Jack wasn't. She told us that he was working with Micah (the Jehova Witness friend). We were still worried that he didn't want to talk to us anymore, but figured we couldn't do anything while at church but pray. Before sacrament meeting was over, though, I saw Jack walking outside of the chapel. After sacrament finished, Elder Higley and I went to try to find him. Elder HIgley found him sitting in a truck, and told me. I was on my way over when our bishop found me and asked about him. We both started for the truck, and noticed that Sandy was right by it and looked really worried, and Jack looked very serious. When bishop and I got there, I realized that his knuckles were all cut up. Our bishop talked to him, and they went into the bishops office. He later told us that they talked for a long time, bishop gave Jack a blessing, and his whole countinence changed at the end. We called last night, and he was busy, but we are really looking forward to teaching him again on Wednesday, or seeing him tomorrow.
While Jack was in with the bishop, Sandy was talking to Bro. Thronus (who introduced Elder York and I to her so long ago). They talked about baptism, and she really wants to learn more about the church and perhaps be baptised. Elder Higley and I are extremely excited now.
Unfortunately, Elder Higley and I were not able to teach Brenda last week, and she didn't come to church. We haven't been able to get ahold of her, but she should be at FHE tonight, so we can talk to her then. She was still nice towards us last time we called. I am just hoping that something came up and she is still ok. I still have a really good feeling about Brenda.
So, mail has finally been figured out, and it is back on its usual track. I got my package last Thursday (technically it arrived on Wednesday, but I couldn't pick it up until Thursday) and thank you so much! I am guessing that the twinkies are from stacie, and I know the m&ms were from Tiff, but I have no idea where the others were given from. But thank you all! I actually opened it at a members house, and the wife took pictures of me as I opened it. She found it
absolutely hilarious.
Today is going to be a fun day. After we finish doing email, we are on our way to the chapel in a town called Kaleheo, which has a really steep hill. They have set up a water slide there, and we are going to have some fun. I bought some board shorts this morning specifically for it. They have done it before, and said that it was a blast.
I hope everyone is doing well. I look forward to seeing the family DVD when it arrives. Thank you everyone for your prayers and support. I pray for you all, and love you. Keep your faith in the Lord, and miricles happen.
Elder Kidd
01/05/09
Aloha from no snow....
Sorry, I just had to say that. And now I say HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
Now that I got those out of my system, Hawaii is still great. Kauai is still beautiful. It looks a little gloomy outside, but I guess with 70 degree weather, I can't complain.
This last week was an interesting week. Brenda came to our family home evening night on Monday evening, and she is really interesed. We actually were able to have a lesson with her on Saturday, and she really liked what we said. She used to belong to a different church with a false prophet that led the church. He told the congregation at one time that he was God in the flesh... and he threatened (in front of the congregation) to kill Brenda's 15 year old daughter because Brenda wouldn't let him marry her off. So, she ran away, and when her husband wouldn't, they got divorced. Now she is very skeptical about religions, but she loves everything about the church. She said to me yesterday at chruch that she will probably be at church every week. Now we just have to teach her about baptism so that she knows that there are more blessings that can come, and covenants we need to make with our Heavenly Father. She already knows about the Word of Wisdom, tithing, etc. and likes them as well. She shines she is so golden.
Jack and Sandy continue to progress slowly. We were finally able to sit down and have a real lesson with both of them this last tuesday night. They had a lot of questions, but the spirit was present, and they said they would read. Unfortunately they didn't come to church yesterday, but we will continue to work with them and help them out. They are starting to read the book of Mormon, which is fantastic. Jack just needs to go at his own pace, and he will find out for himself. I think he knows deep down inside that he will join, he just wants to know what he is doing before he jumps into the water, which is what I would prefer.
This last week was able to resolve a lot (if not all) of the concerns between myself and my companion. On Wednesday morning, we went out to do some tracting. The morning had had a spirit of contention, so we didn't have the Spirit at all. I tried to let him lead, hoping the spirit would lead him (as I was so irritated I knew it wasn't with me) but apparently he was upset as well. He looked around for a bit and said, "Lets just go back to the car, this isn't going to do any
good." So, we walked back to the car, drove back to the pad, and then had a good heart to heart. I callled him out on some things, he asked me to do some things, and we left with a feeling of love between us (FINALLY!!) and things have been so much better. We are having fun now, and are having success. He is settling down, and isn't trying to catch me on every little thing I do, and I feel like he is listening now to me as well. On my part, I am taking special care to make sure he understands what we are doing at all time, helping him learn, and not laughing at his "Greenie" moments. Ahh, so much happier.
It was nice to get that taken care of so that we could enjoy New Year's Eve. We went down to Lihue to hang with the other elders and to spend the night. Before we went down, we stopped by the post office, and elder Higley had received 7 letters (six from his girlfriend, and one from a cousin) and I got one from Aubree (that had been sent 12 days before), so our mail is completely messed up right now, which would explain why my Christmas package still hasn't arrived...
But that night... we all got together and watched Prince Caspian, and Kung Fu Panda. I was slightely dissapointed we couldn't watch Wall.e, but what you gonna do bra? Then we went outside to watch fireworks. Fireworks on new years eve in Hawaii are insane. They actually have to put a limit of 20,000 fireworks per person. Yes, 20,000. They have all sorts of illegal fireworks that go off the whole night as well, but no one cares. The air is so full of smoke it can
make it difficult to see and breathe. It was amazing, and a lot of fun. After that we went to bed, but put on Home Alone to fall asleep to, which i stayed up and watched the whole thing.
The next day we weren't to do any prosolyting, so we played basketball and hung with the elders for most of the morning. When we went home, elder Higley just feel asleep and rested for a while. At 6 we went to the Allen's home again, ate dinner, and watched a movie with them... or rather elder higley and I started to watch one together, and he left to watch the other one part way through.
So, that is the excitement in Kauai. I hope everyone is doing well. It seems for me I just got out of the rainstorm, and I am using the sun I have now to grow all that I can. As for the weather, it looks like another storm just rolled in. I hope everyone is safe with the snow (or whatever weather may be like where you are). I love you all. Remember the Lord watches over us all,
and will not let us face more than we are able. The Second Coming is near, let us be prepared for it.
Elder Kidd
Sorry, I just had to say that. And now I say HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
Now that I got those out of my system, Hawaii is still great. Kauai is still beautiful. It looks a little gloomy outside, but I guess with 70 degree weather, I can't complain.
This last week was an interesting week. Brenda came to our family home evening night on Monday evening, and she is really interesed. We actually were able to have a lesson with her on Saturday, and she really liked what we said. She used to belong to a different church with a false prophet that led the church. He told the congregation at one time that he was God in the flesh... and he threatened (in front of the congregation) to kill Brenda's 15 year old daughter because Brenda wouldn't let him marry her off. So, she ran away, and when her husband wouldn't, they got divorced. Now she is very skeptical about religions, but she loves everything about the church. She said to me yesterday at chruch that she will probably be at church every week. Now we just have to teach her about baptism so that she knows that there are more blessings that can come, and covenants we need to make with our Heavenly Father. She already knows about the Word of Wisdom, tithing, etc. and likes them as well. She shines she is so golden.
Jack and Sandy continue to progress slowly. We were finally able to sit down and have a real lesson with both of them this last tuesday night. They had a lot of questions, but the spirit was present, and they said they would read. Unfortunately they didn't come to church yesterday, but we will continue to work with them and help them out. They are starting to read the book of Mormon, which is fantastic. Jack just needs to go at his own pace, and he will find out for himself. I think he knows deep down inside that he will join, he just wants to know what he is doing before he jumps into the water, which is what I would prefer.
This last week was able to resolve a lot (if not all) of the concerns between myself and my companion. On Wednesday morning, we went out to do some tracting. The morning had had a spirit of contention, so we didn't have the Spirit at all. I tried to let him lead, hoping the spirit would lead him (as I was so irritated I knew it wasn't with me) but apparently he was upset as well. He looked around for a bit and said, "Lets just go back to the car, this isn't going to do any
good." So, we walked back to the car, drove back to the pad, and then had a good heart to heart. I callled him out on some things, he asked me to do some things, and we left with a feeling of love between us (FINALLY!!) and things have been so much better. We are having fun now, and are having success. He is settling down, and isn't trying to catch me on every little thing I do, and I feel like he is listening now to me as well. On my part, I am taking special care to make sure he understands what we are doing at all time, helping him learn, and not laughing at his "Greenie" moments. Ahh, so much happier.
It was nice to get that taken care of so that we could enjoy New Year's Eve. We went down to Lihue to hang with the other elders and to spend the night. Before we went down, we stopped by the post office, and elder Higley had received 7 letters (six from his girlfriend, and one from a cousin) and I got one from Aubree (that had been sent 12 days before), so our mail is completely messed up right now, which would explain why my Christmas package still hasn't arrived...
But that night... we all got together and watched Prince Caspian, and Kung Fu Panda. I was slightely dissapointed we couldn't watch Wall.e, but what you gonna do bra? Then we went outside to watch fireworks. Fireworks on new years eve in Hawaii are insane. They actually have to put a limit of 20,000 fireworks per person. Yes, 20,000. They have all sorts of illegal fireworks that go off the whole night as well, but no one cares. The air is so full of smoke it can
make it difficult to see and breathe. It was amazing, and a lot of fun. After that we went to bed, but put on Home Alone to fall asleep to, which i stayed up and watched the whole thing.
The next day we weren't to do any prosolyting, so we played basketball and hung with the elders for most of the morning. When we went home, elder Higley just feel asleep and rested for a while. At 6 we went to the Allen's home again, ate dinner, and watched a movie with them... or rather elder higley and I started to watch one together, and he left to watch the other one part way through.
So, that is the excitement in Kauai. I hope everyone is doing well. It seems for me I just got out of the rainstorm, and I am using the sun I have now to grow all that I can. As for the weather, it looks like another storm just rolled in. I hope everyone is safe with the snow (or whatever weather may be like where you are). I love you all. Remember the Lord watches over us all,
and will not let us face more than we are able. The Second Coming is near, let us be prepared for it.
Elder Kidd
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