We have a meal this Sunday for sure and after that are not sure but we are recieving a cake from an awesome little member named Saito Shimai! She is way cool and told us she is giving us a cake next Tuesday!
We had the Uutau Senkyoushi which was a group of five performing missionaries
that went around to each zone and put on an awesome show. I hope to be in it
next year. So we'll see.
Hey All!!!
Well lots of fun this week and the reason I am on today and not Monday is because it is transfer week!! The transfer news is.....(drum roll)...Elder Koyama and I are staying together another transfer!!!!!! WOOT!!! It will be loads of fun and at the end of which, in February, I will have been in Toyama 6 months! Wow...crazy how time flies!!
Another sweet thing is that before Christmas, so maybe at our zone Christmas party this Friday, all Nagoya missionaries (well companionships) are getting cell phones!! Its a new thing they are doing to adapt to the changing times. We will probably also get to text investigators as well and what not. It will be such a good thing to be able to keep in better touch with them in a way that they frequently use!! So, how cool is that!!
This week has been loads of fun and good times...a few more fasts and lots of good insights from personal and comp study!
I just love missionary work!! Yeah, it's not always the most progressive work (in Japan), but something good is always happening, whether its personal growth or some other way!!
I have also learned so much from my Japanese comp as well...he is a stud and just learning about the culture through him helps a lot!! haha, just funny things too like when he gets in the shower he ( and I actually do it too now ) says, *shawa ni hairimasu* which just means I am geting in the shower but its kind of for my approval as well...just a little culture thing that made me laugh at first!
Another thing our mission has started from last week is from 8-8:30 in the morning at the beginning of study we take whatever time we need to pray in special need of us reaching our goal of 150 baptisms this year. We have a list of all those with dates and pray that everything will go well with them as well as those we are focusing on to get dates!! It has been a great time drawing closer to Heavenly Father and feeling of his support on our shoulders! He really does know our needs and help us al the time. Another thing I saw Elder Koyama do that I now do is start the prayer session by opening my scriptures...I just open randomly to a page and read the first thing that pops! It has actually been quite insightful!! Monday's was Doctrine and Covenants 10:70. (please look up)
It refers to Christ and it toally made that prayer session all the more meaningful!!
There is just so much I could talk about with the gospel blessings!!
We are always feeling of the Lords love and help in our life! I completely know with all my heart that we can be eternal families and that God has made it all possible through Jesus Christ, who is our loving older brother, Savior and Redeemer. The Book of Mormon IS the word of God and by reading and studying from its pages we can so fully draw closer to our Heavenly Father and feel of His love. That is one thing I have started trying to do when housing. I am trying to testify at each door about the Book of Mormon and get them to accept reading from it...its such a blessing having a Book of Answers to life and we can all benefit from its love and knowledge!
Well hey I love you all and wish you the best time ever at Christmas!! As well as can't wait to talk to many of you on that day as well! And remember, its CHRISTmas, so have fun drawing closer to Him!
The church is true!!
Elder Parks
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Monday, December 15, 2008
Aaron's letter 12-7-08 with some more info
Hey!
We get to eat at members a couple of times a week if we set up appointments. Last night we ate at the Nakamura:s and had sukiyaki! Holy cow it was great!! A great way to end a fast and begin another one! Haha...if we tell members we want to meet with them and have a family home evening or something they always do too! So it's just a matter of scheduling! You guys are so great to the missionaries. Now as one myself, I totally realize that. Strong members are so good to have and a great help to the missionaries!
It officially has gotten cold! It snowed like all Saturday and so dendo was a site! The roads were pretty slick so I had to be careful and we had to go pretty slow. I am going to check the price on mountain tires today and see what they are like. it's a thought...
But thankfully no wrecks or anything lately! haha....
Well hey love ya!
Write Back
Hey Everybody!!
Well another cold and snowy week gone by and I can't believe it!! And I have officially past the 6 month mark! Woot!
Well this week was full of great insights from zone conference and companion relations through fasting and prayer. Today is our third fast since Thursday and we are really trying to get this area into shape investigator wise! Lots of help has come and this morning actually my amazing senior comp had the impression to call an old investigor we put back on the board and she finally answered. We found out she has been in the hospital and not able to call or get calls. What a miracle Koyama choro followed an impression. God truly knows us and always watches out for us. Kenta, however, might have moved...we put brownies on his door Friday and last night they were still there...We haven't been able to get ahold of him or anything lately and have visited everyday...so as of now we just want to know where he is!!
but nonetheless, God continues to know our needs and desires and helps us in achieving what needs to be done!!
My testimony is also continuing to grow everyday from experiences like this and my love of the gospel is becoming massive!!
It just amazes me what we have in store for us as members and also just children of a loving Heavenly Father!
One thing I found this morning in personal study was from this month's Liahona. It is Elder Maxwells address from Apr 2002 called Consecrate thy Performance... in the section *Acknowledge Gods Hand* it talks about stepping stones...meaning us doing things that may be outside of our comfort zone in order to become evermore like Christ. As a missionary of Christ I am finding these kinds of experiences all the time!! It is an amazing growing experience and I love being able to see what happens when we dedicate and consecrate ourselves fully to the Lord. Again, He knows us SO well and always wants to help us become better and improve. What a marvelous amazing principle or truth! I love it!
As we all continue in this process I hope and pray we are finding these stepping stone experiences of our own to become evermore Christlike and showing the *Christ* spirit, which is the real meaning or *Christmas* sprit. And always remember, no matter what, God loves you and knows you!
Well, thats about it for this week...thanks again for all your continued support and love. it is truly felt and needed!
and no, no accidents happened this week! haha, we are safe and loving life!!
I love you all so much!
The church is without a doubt TRUE!
Elder Parks
We get to eat at members a couple of times a week if we set up appointments. Last night we ate at the Nakamura:s and had sukiyaki! Holy cow it was great!! A great way to end a fast and begin another one! Haha...if we tell members we want to meet with them and have a family home evening or something they always do too! So it's just a matter of scheduling! You guys are so great to the missionaries. Now as one myself, I totally realize that. Strong members are so good to have and a great help to the missionaries!
It officially has gotten cold! It snowed like all Saturday and so dendo was a site! The roads were pretty slick so I had to be careful and we had to go pretty slow. I am going to check the price on mountain tires today and see what they are like. it's a thought...
But thankfully no wrecks or anything lately! haha....
Well hey love ya!
Write Back
Hey Everybody!!
Well another cold and snowy week gone by and I can't believe it!! And I have officially past the 6 month mark! Woot!
Well this week was full of great insights from zone conference and companion relations through fasting and prayer. Today is our third fast since Thursday and we are really trying to get this area into shape investigator wise! Lots of help has come and this morning actually my amazing senior comp had the impression to call an old investigor we put back on the board and she finally answered. We found out she has been in the hospital and not able to call or get calls. What a miracle Koyama choro followed an impression. God truly knows us and always watches out for us. Kenta, however, might have moved...we put brownies on his door Friday and last night they were still there...We haven't been able to get ahold of him or anything lately and have visited everyday...so as of now we just want to know where he is!!
but nonetheless, God continues to know our needs and desires and helps us in achieving what needs to be done!!
My testimony is also continuing to grow everyday from experiences like this and my love of the gospel is becoming massive!!
It just amazes me what we have in store for us as members and also just children of a loving Heavenly Father!
One thing I found this morning in personal study was from this month's Liahona. It is Elder Maxwells address from Apr 2002 called Consecrate thy Performance... in the section *Acknowledge Gods Hand* it talks about stepping stones...meaning us doing things that may be outside of our comfort zone in order to become evermore like Christ. As a missionary of Christ I am finding these kinds of experiences all the time!! It is an amazing growing experience and I love being able to see what happens when we dedicate and consecrate ourselves fully to the Lord. Again, He knows us SO well and always wants to help us become better and improve. What a marvelous amazing principle or truth! I love it!
As we all continue in this process I hope and pray we are finding these stepping stone experiences of our own to become evermore Christlike and showing the *Christ* spirit, which is the real meaning or *Christmas* sprit. And always remember, no matter what, God loves you and knows you!
Well, thats about it for this week...thanks again for all your continued support and love. it is truly felt and needed!
and no, no accidents happened this week! haha, we are safe and loving life!!
I love you all so much!
The church is without a doubt TRUE!
Elder Parks
Monday, November 17, 2008
Paakusu Chooroo and Heninger Chooroo
Aaron and Elder Heninger in the village in Takayama.
We visited this place when we lived in Japan.
Aaron's letter 11-16-08
Hey Everyone!!
Well what an awesome week! my companion is amazing. I can:t even say all the reasons why. He is great elder and helps me all the time with dendo as well as the language! It is such a blessing, in more than one way, to have a Japanese companion! I love him to death!
Wednesday I picked him up from kanazawa, our zone leaders area, and then returned home to an intense and amazing planning session.
Then thursday we rode all over and visited families that didn't end up being home and housed and streeted!
Friday we had district training in Takayama and then returned home to way fun dendo! That night we vistited kenta, our stud college student investigator, and found out that the little punk went and got another job to earn more money for grad school. this kid is intense! his only free day now is friday and parts of sat and sun. He is way cool though. We gave him the October Liahona and directied him to the Finding My Faith story. It is a lot like him. So hopefully he will find the help he needs from it. I really want to see him recieve baptism and I know he can. He just needs a strong punch from the spirit and will be great!
Saturday we vistied Elder Koyama:s friend from middle and high school who is now attending the Toyama University. Way cool kid and we even taught a little message. We think he will continue to let us teach him and Elder Koyama is way happy it is all working out!! What a great blessing that Elder Koyama came here!
Yesterday was great church and then we had a great meal / fun time with the Yasui Family and some others from the ward. Way good time and I sang again. Then Sister Yasui and Sister Shimizu sang as well. Way fun!! I totaly love this ward!
This weeks *scripture* is the Finding My Faith story from the oct 2008 Liahona (you can find it online).
I just love all it teaches and helps us to see. I am not going to say too much about that, just want you all to read it...
My greatest thing is just having this amazing companion. He really is an answer to
my earnest prayers of the past transfer. I didn't go into great depth about Elder Todd, but its enough to say, we weren't working as diligent as I am now with Elder Koyama.
Heavenly Father really loves us and knows us well!! By our diligent prayers he answers and helps us!! I completely know this. This church is one of great strength and I wish you all the best in your own finding efforts!!
I love you all!
Elder Parks
Well what an awesome week! my companion is amazing. I can:t even say all the reasons why. He is great elder and helps me all the time with dendo as well as the language! It is such a blessing, in more than one way, to have a Japanese companion! I love him to death!
Wednesday I picked him up from kanazawa, our zone leaders area, and then returned home to an intense and amazing planning session.
Then thursday we rode all over and visited families that didn't end up being home and housed and streeted!
Friday we had district training in Takayama and then returned home to way fun dendo! That night we vistited kenta, our stud college student investigator, and found out that the little punk went and got another job to earn more money for grad school. this kid is intense! his only free day now is friday and parts of sat and sun. He is way cool though. We gave him the October Liahona and directied him to the Finding My Faith story. It is a lot like him. So hopefully he will find the help he needs from it. I really want to see him recieve baptism and I know he can. He just needs a strong punch from the spirit and will be great!
Saturday we vistied Elder Koyama:s friend from middle and high school who is now attending the Toyama University. Way cool kid and we even taught a little message. We think he will continue to let us teach him and Elder Koyama is way happy it is all working out!! What a great blessing that Elder Koyama came here!
Yesterday was great church and then we had a great meal / fun time with the Yasui Family and some others from the ward. Way good time and I sang again. Then Sister Yasui and Sister Shimizu sang as well. Way fun!! I totaly love this ward!
This weeks *scripture* is the Finding My Faith story from the oct 2008 Liahona (you can find it online).
I just love all it teaches and helps us to see. I am not going to say too much about that, just want you all to read it...
My greatest thing is just having this amazing companion. He really is an answer to
my earnest prayers of the past transfer. I didn't go into great depth about Elder Todd, but its enough to say, we weren't working as diligent as I am now with Elder Koyama.
Heavenly Father really loves us and knows us well!! By our diligent prayers he answers and helps us!! I completely know this. This church is one of great strength and I wish you all the best in your own finding efforts!!
I love you all!
Elder Parks
Monday, November 10, 2008
Hey All!!
ok first of all...the transfer news....
I am staying and am getting a Japanese companion!!! woo hoo!!!is name is Koyama Chooroo and is just being made a senior companion this transfer! I am way excited to get to meet him tomorrow!
And so that is why I am emailing later this week...yesterday was cleaning so today is prep day!
Well last Thursday was our eikaiwa Halloween party! Way good time and lots of members showed up to help and party!
Friday I again went to Takayama with Elder Heninger to dendo on an exchange and we had a great time!! That day we were out and about and found some kids playing baseball and ended up playing with them. Way fun and awesome time!! They were from 7yrs to like 11yrs old and way good at baseball! We also went to a thatched roof village called Hide no sato up there in Takayama. I can:t remember if we had been before but I took lots of pics you all can see on the next card sent home!
Saturday in Takayama we went biking all of the place up and up and up the hills in the moutany area. But there was also lots of pretty scenery to look at! Then they have a lady, nonmember, who teaches them caligraphy every Saturday that I got to go to and learn some stuff!! Way fun and I will be sending home my first work of kanji art!!
Sunday we have stake conference and it was great!! I sang with the choir and lots of great talks were given.
Then yesterday was cleaning and today is preparation day!!
Ok now for the spiritual thought....
Please open your scriptures and read Mosiah 4:9...
Once we do these things and believe in God completely along with the fact that He truly has ALL power, we will be so blessed in life. Once I have done this, and iput more trust and support in our Heavenly Father, I have truly noticed help in my life as a missionary and in always seeing the good and joyous parts of life, rather than the negative downer ones. There is just so much strength available in the gospel message and by sharing it, more people can benefit!! I hope you are all finding the utmost missionary benefits in life!!
Love you tons!!
Elder Parks
Our family went the the village Aaron was speaking about for my birthday. It is a beautiful area.
ok first of all...the transfer news....
I am staying and am getting a Japanese companion!!! woo hoo!!!is name is Koyama Chooroo and is just being made a senior companion this transfer! I am way excited to get to meet him tomorrow!
And so that is why I am emailing later this week...yesterday was cleaning so today is prep day!
Well last Thursday was our eikaiwa Halloween party! Way good time and lots of members showed up to help and party!
Friday I again went to Takayama with Elder Heninger to dendo on an exchange and we had a great time!! That day we were out and about and found some kids playing baseball and ended up playing with them. Way fun and awesome time!! They were from 7yrs to like 11yrs old and way good at baseball! We also went to a thatched roof village called Hide no sato up there in Takayama. I can:t remember if we had been before but I took lots of pics you all can see on the next card sent home!
Saturday in Takayama we went biking all of the place up and up and up the hills in the moutany area. But there was also lots of pretty scenery to look at! Then they have a lady, nonmember, who teaches them caligraphy every Saturday that I got to go to and learn some stuff!! Way fun and I will be sending home my first work of kanji art!!
Sunday we have stake conference and it was great!! I sang with the choir and lots of great talks were given.
Then yesterday was cleaning and today is preparation day!!
Ok now for the spiritual thought....
Please open your scriptures and read Mosiah 4:9...
Once we do these things and believe in God completely along with the fact that He truly has ALL power, we will be so blessed in life. Once I have done this, and iput more trust and support in our Heavenly Father, I have truly noticed help in my life as a missionary and in always seeing the good and joyous parts of life, rather than the negative downer ones. There is just so much strength available in the gospel message and by sharing it, more people can benefit!! I hope you are all finding the utmost missionary benefits in life!!
Love you tons!!
Elder Parks
Our family went the the village Aaron was speaking about for my birthday. It is a beautiful area.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Aaron's letter 11-5-08 with some more info
Hey,
We eat out sometimes...like today a member took us out to ramen and I got it all over my shirt! haha but it was really good just too much!! The people always get the missionaries the big portions and its soo much! but way good.
a lot of the time we eat curry out...
At home we eat curry, gyoza, mabodofu ( a way good dish with tofu), yakisoba and some other little things...
Alrighty...weekly time.....
We eat out sometimes...like today a member took us out to ramen and I got it all over my shirt! haha but it was really good just too much!! The people always get the missionaries the big portions and its soo much! but way good.
a lot of the time we eat curry out...
At home we eat curry, gyoza, mabodofu ( a way good dish with tofu), yakisoba and some other little things...
Alrighty...weekly time.....
Aaron's letter 11-5-08
Hey All!!
Well first of all the reason I haven:t been on this week yet is because Monday we all got taken to a place called Tateyama with a member from the other ward. So that took the whole day and then i was in the zone leaders area on an exchange with one of them until last night and now, Wedesday, I have a little time to send....
I am not going to spend too much time on this one since it is not technical pday but here is the week!
Last Thursday was zone conference and it rocked!! Elder Evans, the area president, came and it was great! I felt and learned so much!! Then after that until Saturday I was with my MTC comp Elder Heninger in his area of Takayama on an exchange. That was way fun!! I even walked to touristy part to see if I could find the hotel we stayed at but only found the river we shopped by!! So I took some pics.
Sunday was a great fast! Then that night we went to a members and had an awesome meal with them and some of their Vietnamese friends. A new american couple moved in not too long ago and the wife speaks vietnamese so she came as well!! that was way fun and they had me sing I heard him come as well.. way fun!
Then Monday was that activity and it rocked!! We played in the snow for a bit since there was a ton at the top of this mountain!! Way good time!!!
Then tonight we will be getting stuff ready for tomorrows halloween eikaiwa party!! Woo Hoo!!!
Ok real quick....I have some items you all can stew over if you are considering ideas of gifts....(don:t feel like you have to get them...just ideas)
the Simon Dewey *Abide with me* 2009 calendar
The Ultimate LDS songbook
Sunday Best (a CD)
Spirit of the Season (Motab:s christmas concert with sissel CD... (Steve and Annette already have this CD for Aaron)
just a few ideas i have thought of...
(oh and Dad, could you send another copy of the poem that starts..*i know not by what methods rare, I only know God answers prayer*...something like that, I sent my copy to Ashley in the MTC)
alright so I don:t have my Book of Mormon with me for an exact thought but I have an idea...
One thing I have really noticed out here in the field is that trials and everything that opposes, has lots of potential to be for our benefit! So often we notice things that annoy or just seem purposeless...however, as we strive to communicate to our Heavenly Father through prayer and do our best to remain worthy, He, along with the power of Christ and the atonement, strengthen us!! This is a true principle!! I know it! The only essential gift I want from you all this Christmas is an ETERNAL FAMILY!! If you could all do whatever it takes to be that special unit, I will have a deeply happy christmas season!! And that is the joy of the gospel, we all can achieve that level of purity through the atonement. Nothing is beyond it...if our hearts are in the right place, the Lord understands and even helps us get there.
I LOVE YOU ALL SO MUCH!! Thanks for all you do to help me out here and encourage me as well!!
I love you!!
Elder Parks
Well first of all the reason I haven:t been on this week yet is because Monday we all got taken to a place called Tateyama with a member from the other ward. So that took the whole day and then i was in the zone leaders area on an exchange with one of them until last night and now, Wedesday, I have a little time to send....
I am not going to spend too much time on this one since it is not technical pday but here is the week!
Last Thursday was zone conference and it rocked!! Elder Evans, the area president, came and it was great! I felt and learned so much!! Then after that until Saturday I was with my MTC comp Elder Heninger in his area of Takayama on an exchange. That was way fun!! I even walked to touristy part to see if I could find the hotel we stayed at but only found the river we shopped by!! So I took some pics.
Sunday was a great fast! Then that night we went to a members and had an awesome meal with them and some of their Vietnamese friends. A new american couple moved in not too long ago and the wife speaks vietnamese so she came as well!! that was way fun and they had me sing I heard him come as well.. way fun!
Then Monday was that activity and it rocked!! We played in the snow for a bit since there was a ton at the top of this mountain!! Way good time!!!
Then tonight we will be getting stuff ready for tomorrows halloween eikaiwa party!! Woo Hoo!!!
Ok real quick....I have some items you all can stew over if you are considering ideas of gifts....(don:t feel like you have to get them...just ideas)
the Simon Dewey *Abide with me* 2009 calendar
The Ultimate LDS songbook
Sunday Best (a CD)
Spirit of the Season (Motab:s christmas concert with sissel CD... (Steve and Annette already have this CD for Aaron)
just a few ideas i have thought of...
(oh and Dad, could you send another copy of the poem that starts..*i know not by what methods rare, I only know God answers prayer*...something like that, I sent my copy to Ashley in the MTC)
alright so I don:t have my Book of Mormon with me for an exact thought but I have an idea...
One thing I have really noticed out here in the field is that trials and everything that opposes, has lots of potential to be for our benefit! So often we notice things that annoy or just seem purposeless...however, as we strive to communicate to our Heavenly Father through prayer and do our best to remain worthy, He, along with the power of Christ and the atonement, strengthen us!! This is a true principle!! I know it! The only essential gift I want from you all this Christmas is an ETERNAL FAMILY!! If you could all do whatever it takes to be that special unit, I will have a deeply happy christmas season!! And that is the joy of the gospel, we all can achieve that level of purity through the atonement. Nothing is beyond it...if our hearts are in the right place, the Lord understands and even helps us get there.
I LOVE YOU ALL SO MUCH!! Thanks for all you do to help me out here and encourage me as well!!
I love you!!
Elder Parks
Monday, October 27, 2008
Aaron's letter 10-27-08
Hey All!!
Well another week in the field gone by!! Wow...
Oh yeah, first of all, an elder came into our zone last transfer named Elder Wardle...his name is Josh and his father is Michael and the now live in West Jordan UT...so I just thought I would send on that info to see if any of you know of them...
Tuesday we and our landlord cleaned out this community closet under the stairs and wow, looks like new!!
Then that day while we were dendoing we went up to a door to knock and there was a parrot looking bird so i figured hey, what the heck lets see if it talks...well it didn:t respond at first but a few moments later it croaked *konnichiwa*! haha how funny! Then I coughed like a smoker, so I think its owner like the tobacco a little too much...haha
Wednesday we had interviews and they were great!! I love doing them, it makes me love President and Sister Traveller even more!! They really are the best!
We also found out that Todd Choro and I will not be together for another transfer, We just don't know who is leaving...
Thursday we had another lesson with Kenta before eikaiwa. It went really well. He is just having a hard time internalizing the information and taking hold of the good feelings he feels. He also felt like we were pressuring him so we cleared that up and told him we just want him to be happy and to find the truth. So, keep him in your prayers that he will find and feel the answers through the book of mormon. I really feel like he will progress well once we get him that solid confirmation and base of faith!
Then after the lesson I practiced my song for conference with Sister Watanabe and Kenta decided to sit in. That actually went really well. I think it was good for him to hear the song *I Heard Him Come* and feel good. So good times!
Friday we once again went to Takayama for training and exchanges. While I was with Elder Zimmerman housing we found this older lady who wasnt all there...she ended up taking us on a walk up the mountain by her house. On the way she tried to check us into a hotel and kept talking about two hospitals or something...kind of wierd. In the end she took us to this place that seemed like an old peoples home and we explained to the lady there that we don't know whats going on and she told us they would take care of her and we could leave...whew...so yeah, we kind of got abducted by this lady...haha. funny times
While in Takayama I also got a new free suit! Some elder a while ago left it in the apt and it fit, so I took it! I just had to sew up the hole in the butt seam and am taking it to the dry cleaners today!! Way awesome!!
The rest of the week was pretty good and regular.
Now for the weekly thought...it comes from 2 Nephi 9, and 10:23
Chapter nine just rocks because it is like the whole gospel in one chapter. It covers most of the bases and i just felt so edified by reading it. It is so jam packed with goodness that I had to include it this week. 10:23 is the key for today...please look up!
It counsels to be cheerful! To remember that we are free to choose whatever we want, happiness or misery. So, in this gospel we have all the information and ordinances we need for salvation. We just need to be constantly choosing the right and finding the happiness it brings. Like chapter 9 teaches, we are saved through christ and his atoning sacrifice. There is so much goodness to this gospel, as also found in ch.9, that I just love it! If only there were more willing people to open up to it and let it bless their lives!! But, that is what I am out here for and what missionary work is all about!
God speed to all your personal missionary efforts and I love you!!!
Elder Parks
Well another week in the field gone by!! Wow...
Oh yeah, first of all, an elder came into our zone last transfer named Elder Wardle...his name is Josh and his father is Michael and the now live in West Jordan UT...so I just thought I would send on that info to see if any of you know of them...
Tuesday we and our landlord cleaned out this community closet under the stairs and wow, looks like new!!
Then that day while we were dendoing we went up to a door to knock and there was a parrot looking bird so i figured hey, what the heck lets see if it talks...well it didn:t respond at first but a few moments later it croaked *konnichiwa*! haha how funny! Then I coughed like a smoker, so I think its owner like the tobacco a little too much...haha
Wednesday we had interviews and they were great!! I love doing them, it makes me love President and Sister Traveller even more!! They really are the best!
We also found out that Todd Choro and I will not be together for another transfer, We just don't know who is leaving...
Thursday we had another lesson with Kenta before eikaiwa. It went really well. He is just having a hard time internalizing the information and taking hold of the good feelings he feels. He also felt like we were pressuring him so we cleared that up and told him we just want him to be happy and to find the truth. So, keep him in your prayers that he will find and feel the answers through the book of mormon. I really feel like he will progress well once we get him that solid confirmation and base of faith!
Then after the lesson I practiced my song for conference with Sister Watanabe and Kenta decided to sit in. That actually went really well. I think it was good for him to hear the song *I Heard Him Come* and feel good. So good times!
Friday we once again went to Takayama for training and exchanges. While I was with Elder Zimmerman housing we found this older lady who wasnt all there...she ended up taking us on a walk up the mountain by her house. On the way she tried to check us into a hotel and kept talking about two hospitals or something...kind of wierd. In the end she took us to this place that seemed like an old peoples home and we explained to the lady there that we don't know whats going on and she told us they would take care of her and we could leave...whew...so yeah, we kind of got abducted by this lady...haha. funny times
While in Takayama I also got a new free suit! Some elder a while ago left it in the apt and it fit, so I took it! I just had to sew up the hole in the butt seam and am taking it to the dry cleaners today!! Way awesome!!
The rest of the week was pretty good and regular.
Now for the weekly thought...it comes from 2 Nephi 9, and 10:23
Chapter nine just rocks because it is like the whole gospel in one chapter. It covers most of the bases and i just felt so edified by reading it. It is so jam packed with goodness that I had to include it this week. 10:23 is the key for today...please look up!
It counsels to be cheerful! To remember that we are free to choose whatever we want, happiness or misery. So, in this gospel we have all the information and ordinances we need for salvation. We just need to be constantly choosing the right and finding the happiness it brings. Like chapter 9 teaches, we are saved through christ and his atoning sacrifice. There is so much goodness to this gospel, as also found in ch.9, that I just love it! If only there were more willing people to open up to it and let it bless their lives!! But, that is what I am out here for and what missionary work is all about!
God speed to all your personal missionary efforts and I love you!!!
Elder Parks
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Eikaiwa Service Guy... Kosurido
Elder Parks, Kosurido San, and Elder Parks. Aaron really likes this guy. He is from their English class.
Aaron's Bike
Aaron with his bike. We sent it over to Japan for him. They don't have bikes tall enough for Aaron in Japan.
BBQ Grill
The elders stopped and visited with a man that was grilling corn. He gave Elder Todd and Elder Parks each a piece of corn. This is what the grill looks like. Each area of Japan has its own style of grill.
Nashi orchard
Elder Todd and Elder Parks find huge nashi to eat along with a nice nashi orchard to enjoy.
The Caterpillar and the Spider
This caterpillar was close to Aaron's apartment. They watched it for a long time, then gave it to the spider for lunch. Simple entertainment for the elders.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Pat's Here.... Check Out How Full the Fridge is...
I opened the fridge tonight and started laughing. Mom came into the kitchen to see what was going on. I opened the fridge back up and said, "Look how full the fridge is?" We all laughed really hard. For those that have been in Pat's home will totally understand this...Pat always has plenty of food for everyone and anyone that comes to her home. What a treasure to share in Albuquerque, NM.
I Pledge Alligence to the Divinity
We finally learned how to make divinity with Dad and Mom. Steve loved the batch with the walnuts in it. We made three different colors. What a party. We also made popcorn balls. What treats.........
Los Alamos Trip with the Parents...
Our tour of the Los Alamos area and the Rio Grande River area. We went with our tour guide that has lived in Los Alamos since she was 6 years old. Her husband is a retired Scientist. We also went around the city area and saw the first homes built in the town of Los Alamos. Very enjoyable time...
Oh My Stars...
We came home from school and work to our home that had such a fabulous smell. Pat made dinner and had it waiting for us. Oh, it was so wonderful... We had fresh items from the garden, like potatoes, carrots, tomatoes, along with steaks and Glen made us rice pudding. Oh, and don't forget the home made whole wheat bread. YUMMY!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Monday, October 6, 2008
Aaron's letter 10-6-08
Hey Everyone!
Well another week gone and more goods to share! And can you believe I have already been away for 4 months!! Wow, time is goin by!
Wednesday we went to the Joshin store to get a new filter for the washer and then dendoed down there that day. That is when i saw the sweet Nissan GT-R!! Such a hot car of which i took pics!!
So they are on the memory card being sent home today!
Then Thursday we planned for our eikaiwa halloween party! It is going to be a blast!! Then that night we had 3 new people attend and two of them have interest in our message! So this week we will be following up on that and seeing how deep this interest is! We have one other with interest and one more, Kenta, who we began teaching this past friday! He is our way cool 20 yr old college student who came to eikaiwa two weeks ago. He is an amazing kid and i hope he really feels more of the joy of the gospel!
Friday was quoted in my journal as *The Best Day Ever!* Here is why...
We had good district training in the morning at our place, then on departure from the apartment to dendo i recieved a letter from a friend from college!!
Then, on a lower note, on the way to our dendo area, my back tire:s valve broke. So yeah that dampened my spirits but not for long. After we dendoed for a bit we headed back to our bike store, except i had to run with my bike. So i ended up running like 3 kilos back to our bike store next to my comp on his bike! I am actually grateful i got to do that. It really set my mind on the work and was just good for me. All i have to say is, it would not have been possible without the Lord on my side!! He truly is all powerful.
Then that night we had our lesson with Kenta san and that totally rocked. He is looking for how to help people and thus was interested in our message. After our lesson he told us he felt *sunshine* in his heart during the lesson, can it get any better than that!!? So, needless to say, i love this guy! I can:t wait for our next lesson before eikaiwa this thursday!
Then Saturday we had a great long dendo day.
Next week we get to watch conference in our building from the dvds and I can:t wait!!
Now for the quote and scripture. So as we were around one day Todd choro found this quote...*Knowledge is proud that he has learn:d so much; Wisdom is humble that he knows no more.* So, ponder on that one... and now for my scripture...1Nephi 7 17...please look up
I just love how Nephi is consistently in connection with the Lord, and therefore benefits from the consequent blessings! He is such a good example to us all of what we need to do to be strong in the gospel. Have faith, perservere, and live the right. I hope you are all finding the joy of his teachings and finding, once again, the light of Christ within each of you!
I love you all and wish you the best!
Elder Parks
ps for our zone conference on the 30th elder Evans, the seventy over japan, is visiting and giving us a special one! woot!
oh, yeah and on our way to lunch today after tennis with yamamoto kyodai, we saw a stork in the road! random cool thing
Well another week gone and more goods to share! And can you believe I have already been away for 4 months!! Wow, time is goin by!
Wednesday we went to the Joshin store to get a new filter for the washer and then dendoed down there that day. That is when i saw the sweet Nissan GT-R!! Such a hot car of which i took pics!!
So they are on the memory card being sent home today!
Then Thursday we planned for our eikaiwa halloween party! It is going to be a blast!! Then that night we had 3 new people attend and two of them have interest in our message! So this week we will be following up on that and seeing how deep this interest is! We have one other with interest and one more, Kenta, who we began teaching this past friday! He is our way cool 20 yr old college student who came to eikaiwa two weeks ago. He is an amazing kid and i hope he really feels more of the joy of the gospel!
Friday was quoted in my journal as *The Best Day Ever!* Here is why...
We had good district training in the morning at our place, then on departure from the apartment to dendo i recieved a letter from a friend from college!!
Then, on a lower note, on the way to our dendo area, my back tire:s valve broke. So yeah that dampened my spirits but not for long. After we dendoed for a bit we headed back to our bike store, except i had to run with my bike. So i ended up running like 3 kilos back to our bike store next to my comp on his bike! I am actually grateful i got to do that. It really set my mind on the work and was just good for me. All i have to say is, it would not have been possible without the Lord on my side!! He truly is all powerful.
Then that night we had our lesson with Kenta san and that totally rocked. He is looking for how to help people and thus was interested in our message. After our lesson he told us he felt *sunshine* in his heart during the lesson, can it get any better than that!!? So, needless to say, i love this guy! I can:t wait for our next lesson before eikaiwa this thursday!
Then Saturday we had a great long dendo day.
Next week we get to watch conference in our building from the dvds and I can:t wait!!
Now for the quote and scripture. So as we were around one day Todd choro found this quote...*Knowledge is proud that he has learn:d so much; Wisdom is humble that he knows no more.* So, ponder on that one... and now for my scripture...1Nephi 7 17...please look up
I just love how Nephi is consistently in connection with the Lord, and therefore benefits from the consequent blessings! He is such a good example to us all of what we need to do to be strong in the gospel. Have faith, perservere, and live the right. I hope you are all finding the joy of his teachings and finding, once again, the light of Christ within each of you!
I love you all and wish you the best!
Elder Parks
ps for our zone conference on the 30th elder Evans, the seventy over japan, is visiting and giving us a special one! woot!
oh, yeah and on our way to lunch today after tennis with yamamoto kyodai, we saw a stork in the road! random cool thing
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Amanda and Grandma's Tea Party
Amanda has waited for so long to have her tea party with Grandma Searle. They had such a fun time....
Grandpa Searle is enjoying his diet with lime while the girls are in the other room having their party...
Sure having fun with Mom and Dad here.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Oh, What Treasures......
Oh my stars what treasures Glen and Pat brought to Albuquerque, NM. Mom has been canning like crazy this fall. They brought us peaches, pears, tomatoes, corn, beans, chili sauce, pickles beets, jams (pear, peach and plum), banana squash, indian corn, pumpkin, red potatoes, onions and carrots (from Garth's garden), fresh tomatoes, peppers, whole wheat bread and banana bread...
Mom also brought some green tomatoes so I can do some canning this year. I have so missed canning since moving to ABQ, NM.
Our family is going to enjoy every bit of these treasures made with love and brought to us with love. It is so fun having Dad and Mom here.
What a fun day 10-4-08
Oh my stars,
What a fun day we have had. We got at 3:30am, left our home at 4:00 and headed to the Balloon Fiesta. We didn't have to wait in the 1 1/2 line driving in this year since we left earlier. We also bought our tickets in advance so we didn't have to wait in that line either. Upon our arrival we found a picnic table to sit at right by the balloon field. The balloon carrying the American Flag was put up right in front of us.
The first 11 balloons went up as the "Dawn Patrol" It was fun to watch the balloons fill with air and lift off with the "glow" filling the balloon. The next balloon that went up was flying the American Flag. It was a wonderful experience to watch the flag waving through air as the National Anthem was being sung.
We were able to watch all the waves take off from the area we were sitting. Steve and I went around and found the balloon cards that everyone loves collecting. Glen and Pat had perfect seats. Amanda loved taking pictures with her phone and sending them to everyone this morning.
We arrived home at 9:45am just in time to watch General Conference. Steve made whole wheat pancakes, bacon and eggs for breakfast. We enjoyed watching the morning session of conference. So many good talks full of great messages.
It is so fun having Dad and Mom with us. Sassy and Taiko are even loving the attention they are getting.
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