Picture

Apparently Elder Asi caught a picture of me making oatmeal at a homeless shelter

July

Hello Everybody!

In order to be better motivated to work out, Elder Blasko and I have bought some sweat-bands for our heads and wrists; we figured we'd be more excited to exercise if we looked like we were on some 1970's exercise show. And you know what? IT TOTALLY WORKS.

Also, just an update. Next Monday, August 3, is a "Civic Holiday" in Canada. From my understanding, it's just one of those days where people take a day off. As such, President Burt has asked that we treat that day as a normal day, so that we could talk to people who would otherwise be working. That said, P-Day will be moved to August 4th. So don't freak out when I don't write next Monday!

My mom's birthday is August 3rd, so I'm sorry that I'll miss the opportunity to email then.

Brian Gorner is a young man who returned from his mission last week; I'm very grateful for that, because we've been bringing him out with us all the time!

It's weird to think it's been over 11 months. The more I think about it, the faster it goes. I just can't get over how much I've learned in this short amount of time, and how much more that I have yet to learn.

My mind is just really jumbled and scattered today, but I can't quite figure out why. I've determined that next week, I'm writing another poem.

Love you all!

-Elder Reynolds

A Canadian Quarter

I am not sure how familiar any of you are with Canadian currency, but coming from America, it was a bit of a culture shock. Every single coin has a picture of Elizabeth II, as in the Queen of England. British Columbia certainly has a lot of English spirit to it.

That said, with this week, I complete my first quarter of the mission. I can easily say that I've loved every bit of it! It hasn't all been easy, but it feels like it has just zoomed by. I've really enjoyed being able to serve in Willoughby, especially with Elder Sloan. Transfer calls are tonight, so it'll be interesting to see what happens there.

Several nights ago, Ray was feeling extremely depressed; he was doubting his testimony and questioning if God truly loved him. I sat there silently pleading with the Lord, as I had no idea how to address this. I felt prompted to go sit next to Ray on the couch and put my arm around him. As soon as I did so, I knew exactly what to say, or at least, I began saying things that I never would have thought of. It was the first time I truly felt like I was teaching by the Spirit. By the end of it all, Ray was extremely happy, wrote down his testimony, and threw out his cigarettes. A big theme of my mission has been learning how much God really loves us, and since that lesson, I'm starting to understand that I'm just here to show people God's love for them. The Gospel of Jesus Christ simply revolves around our Father's love. We sang some hymns, watched some Mormon Messages, and then I made some french toast for everyone. It was a wonderful evening.

However, I am not yet satisfied! I still have 18 months to go, and I don't want any less. I've still got a lot to teach and even more to learn.

Today was the first day in several months that I wore short-sleeves. It's a strange feeling, especially since I imagined February in Canada being much colder.

Our district is going out for some sushi today. As it turns out, I really like sushi. I've been much less selective on the mission, and I'm finding lots of foods that I really enjoy. 

I'll let you all know next week if I get transferred!

-Elder Reynolds

Happy Family Day

Happy belated Family Day! I write this to you on 10 February 2015, and Family Day was 9 February 2015. Family Day is a national holiday that began in Canada 2 years ago. It's one of those "take Monday off" holidays, so the library was closed yesterday.

 

Because our options were limited on Preparation Day, the Elders in our zone held a small barbeque by the church. It was really fun getting to know the other Elders in Langley. Elder French-Cooper, serving in Port Coquitlam, is actually from Denton Texas, which is rather neat.

 

The rain here has been really consistent, but at least it isn't cold out.  

 

We've recently been watching "Treasures in Heaven: The John Tanner Story" with a lot of different people. It's a really good film, only about 20 minutes long. It's definitely worth a watch if you haven't seen it. The acting isn't top-notch, but it's an excellent, true story.

 

Have a good week! I hope you all enjoy some Valentine's Day candy!

 

-Elder Reynolds 

Langley Zone Conference. February 2015

Happy Groundhog Day!

Happy Groundhog Day everybody! At this time of year, I often reflect upon the movie starring Bill Murray; if I were to live today over and over again, what would I do to make each experience different? What would I learn?

Today is going to be a great day in Willoughby. We have Preparation Day until 6pm, and at 6:30pm we'll be watching "Meet the Mormons" at the chapel with some of our friends that we are teaching. It's also a beautiful day outside, so that is always a plus!

Happy Groundhog Day everybody! At this time of year, I often reflect upon the movie starring Bill Murray; if I were to live today over and over again, what would I do to make each experience different? What would I learn?

This week was fantastic; on Thursday, we had a specialized training meeting with President and Sister Burt and the Assistants. We talked a extensively about stepping out of our comfort zones and the importance of effective planning every day. 

Happy Groundhog Day everybody! At this time of year, I often reflect upon the movie starring Bill Murray; if I were to live today over and over again, what would I do to make each experience different? What would I learn?

Whoa, deja vu.

I've heard that the most recent musical at Byron Nelson was a smashing success! Congratulations to all that participated! 

I was able to upload some pictures this time around, some of them as old as Christmas. I hope each and every one of you has a wonderful week and an even better Groundhog Day! 

-Elder Reynolds