19 April 2010

FAMILIA! HOLA FROM THE 402-

Alright. what’s crackin dudes!

So this week, it seems like not much happened, although, it was probably the fastest week on my mission so far. It was just so crazy fast. It was weird. But it was just a great week. I'm so happy these days. I think I told like 4 people this week how happy I am and that the Gospel makes us happy. When we're doing what is right all the time and doing as our Heavenly Father wants us to do, He blesses us with mega happiness! Which is so awesome. I just love the mission so much. It’s just been great. Well, better dive into this week!

Monday - So the rest of this day we had a party. We played ultimate, basketball, had pizza. It was a good little get together. Then my comp and I did some conditioning. We've been working out, hard core, trying to get into some good shape. Not only to look good, but also so we have the endurance to walk around all day. We’ve noticed that we get extra tired from walking. We're like, “That’s not right.” So we've been doing some conditioning 3 days a week! So, yeah. Then we went and dinner with a member and taught a good lesson on faith. After that, I believe we just looked for some referrals close to our house. When we got back, we found out that we got pranked by some other missionaries! We work hard as missionaries, but we have fun too. We're still boys and like to have fun. So we came home and syrup was everywhere in our kitchen and stuff was scattered, spaghetti in our beds, just dumb stuff. So we spent the night cleaning up that then did normal stuff and went to sleep.

Tuesday - We devised a plan to get them back! So during our lunch, we got some pizza, ate it fast, and had 45 minutes to get in and get out of their apartment. So we got a key from their landlord (because all missionaries look alike), and we got in. It was fun. We put stuff in the bathtub, fish in the vents, and we put all their furniture in one room. It was so great. Then that evening we get a call and all the Elder said was, "We truce. You win." hahahaha. So that was the end of that. After our lunch break (after we pranked them), we just tracted the like crazy in our area. We need to find some new investigators. We are thinking about dropping a few because they just aren't fulfilling their commitments at all. They keep making up excuses. So we're going to probably drop our closest person to set. I don't know. We haven't really had a confirmation about it yet. I hope not. He's a good kid and he knows what is right. But Hector just loves sex and drugs too much, I believe. His mom is a member and, yeah, I don't know. So Tuesday was just tracting all over. Then after the day, at like 8:30, we went and helped the other Elders clean their apartment up – because that’s how missionaries roll! Then the Nebraska City Elders came down (Hudspeth-my buddy from Provo, and Routledge-Canadian) and stayed the night, because the next day was zone conference and they are about an hour and a half from here. So, yeah.

Wednesday - Zone conference all day. It was so long. I mean I liked it, but it was super long this time. I actually fell asleep at one point. ha. I think it’s because we tracted mega! But, yeah. The conference was about getting people to church. Which is by far the hardest thing to do! Most of it falls back to the members. The members make missionary work, work! Because missionaries come and go all the time, but the members always stay there. I don't remember what we did the rest of the day, but we went to zone conference until like 5pm. It was a long day.

Thursday - So Thursday zoomed by too. We had lunch with a member. It was so good. She's American, so she cooks us American meals and Mexican meals. It’s so good every time! So after being there for like an hour and a half, (We conducted some church business too. She's the Relief Society president) we then went to the church and met up with 4 other people and we went to Omaha! We took one of our less actives there. We were supposed to take two investigators, but they canceled....boo, so we just took a less active who had not gone to the trail center before. So we gave him the tour and stuff. Then Elder Morrill and his companion showed up too and helped us! It was great to see Elder Morrill. I miss that kid. We had some good chattin time until the rest of the members came out of the baptisms for the dead. (That’s why we were able to go to Omaha, because it was the ward's day for baptisms for the dead. So yeah. We visited with Elder Morrill and talked about stuff and talked with our less active. It was a really good night! Then, while we were driving back, there were huge storms! Like crazy beans! It was scary, but awesome. We all wanted to see a tornado so bad! It was fun. After that, we just went home and slept. We were way tired. It was like 9:30 too. It was a long day!

Friday -This day I don't really remember much about it. I believe we just looked for referrals all day. There are Hispanics here in Lincoln, but you have to look for them more than in Omaha. Seriously, like Omaha is packed full, but here, we have to look around a lot more. Except in Crete. That place is bomb diggity!! Then we had dinner with an inactive. She doesn't want to come back to church at all, but she does want to feed us weekly. Just because she appreciates what we do and she likes us. So that’s good! Ha-ha. After that just looked for some referrals all night, then just went to sleep. I get so tired out here. The work is hard, but it’s fun. So I don't complain. We work, eat, study, and sleep. That’s what we do as missionaries. Pretty basic, but it’s great.

Saturday - We went to Crete again. Not as much success. But we still taught about 6 people and found 3 more. I feel bad saying “not much” because there are other missionaries who can barely get 2 lessons and they work way harder for it. It’s just the Spanish culture. They just like to talk to missionaries, I guess. But while down in Crete, we went to this one guy's house. We taught him the whole first lesson. He said he wasn't interested. I'm glad for his honesty. But, yeah, then next we met this old guy, who I could tell was lonely. He just talked and talked and talked. An hour and a half later we finally got out. Man, people are awesome, but they are super crazy sometimes! After that, we visited a member. He's way sweet, but his mom, wow, she yelled at us. We were pretty much arguing. She blames us for a car accident. She said. “It’s because of your church that my son crashed.” She said never to come back again because he's her son. We were just shocked. Then her son showed up. He was way happy to see us. He told us, “I miss church! I haven't gone because of my mom. It’s a fight every week about how I got baptized. So that’s why I don’t come. I want to come. I still read and pray, but she won't let me come.” Which is sad. He's a good kid with a great testimony. His mom just won't let him come. So we're going to try and open a branch in Crete so all those people down there can get the word every Sunday. We’ll see how it goes. We may not have enough Spanish missionaries. Anywho! After Crete, we had dinner with a member. Then went to see Luis. He's the bombest member in the branch. He told us he's moving to Mexico, which we didn’t like. We talked him about out of it! So he's staying. We have fun with him and he has a lot of friends too! So it’s good. After that, we went home!

Sunday - We had stake conference. I almost had to translate - which is not good - they have to go so fast. But conference was way good. We had this Elder from one of the Quorums of the Seventy come and speak. And our mission president spoke. It was just a good conference. Maybe I'll send you some blurbs of it. Our president typed up a thing and sent it to us. So I'll send it! After that, we had lunch/dinner with a member. Then we went and worked out some issues with a lot of members who aren't doing so hot.

Well. I've noticed that this letter is shorter. They are going to be getting shorter because every day is kind of the same. We teach and tract. So I've been just doing the highlights of the days and stuff. But thank you so much family. I love hearing from all ya'll. It seriously is so great hearing from you all. Thank you so much! Keep up the good work and follow as we have been instructed to do by our profeta! I love you all. I hope you have a great week!!

Love always,

Elder Bradley Rigby

12 April 2010

Hola Buenas Dias Mi Familia Amada!


Well hello there everyone. Isn't life just so great? I hope we all treasure our lives and blessings every day! Because life is so awesome. I love it here so much in Lincoln. Our numbers this week we're pretty much #1 in the zone or maybe the mission! We taught 16 lessons to new investigators, 6 with a member, and 8 to a less active. That is ridiculous huh? That’s 12 more lessons than the standard. We just had a great week. Specifically, one day was awesome. I think it’s because of the weather. It’s quite warm and humid here! Right now it’s probably about 80 degrees and 80% humidity. But, hey, it’s cool. I really enjoy the good weather. It makes life just happy, doesn't it? I'm always smiling now. We were teaching an investigator the other day and he asked, “Why don't you go to strip clubs and gamble?” We both said, “Well, although that may make you happy for an hour, we choose to be happy forever.” And it’s true. I've never been happier! It’s just so awesome doing the work of the Lord out here. It’s just so great! Well, I'll get started on my weeeeeeeekly update!

Tuesday - So this day started with a district meeting - a combined one, at that. It was really good. It was about getting our investigadores to church, which is the hardest thing to do out here. Seriously, we could set anyone for baptism, but if they don't come to church, it can't happen. So, yeah. The other training topic we had was about being worthy to have the Spirit of the Lord with you at all times, which, for me, I have always struggled in my life with that. Because I have never really known what the Spirit is. But out here, I have noticed a crazy difference and I can recognize it more. It’s so awesome. District meeting was great. After, we went to good ole Taco Bell! It was good. Then my companion had a meeting with the ZL's for like an hour. I was so bored. My comp is DL, by the way, and he's actually a really good one. He's a lot like me. We are really getting along. We are teaching very, very, well together. I mean, sometimes I get lost in my Spanish, but he helps me out a lot. After a long day of trying to find people, we went to the two appointments we had set up for the night: Rosalina, Lupe, and Karen, and the other, Hector and Julie. We showed up at the girl's place. They weren't there. Boo. So we went to teach Hector, who is usually there. He is our closest investigadore to baptism. He talks about it all the time, but he wants to go to strip clubs. We told him bluntly that he's an idiot. He's 17, so he's chillax, but we taught him about the gospel. He really knows what he needs to do, but just having a hard time. We're going to try to set him for baptism this week. He has been to church every week for like the last month and a half, except yesterday. But, this week, we're taking him to the Trail Center in Omaha! So hopefully he'll feel the Spirit enough there to get baptized.

Wednesday - So we went to see a few people early afternoon and they weren't there. But we ran into a past investigator of Elder Moore's from Omaha. So that was random. The guy said, “Hey I know you.” and Elder Moore replied, “I know you too.” So we're going to go back and see him. It was random. After that, we had dinner with Hermana Kreber. She's way cool. She's the one we had dinner with on Easter. We had pizza. It has been a while since I’ve had pizza. It was really good. After that, we had like a 2 hour correlation meeting. It was forever. In Omaha, it was different. This one, we went into depth on like every person we had taught the week before. It was so crazy. I asked why was that so long. Elder Moore just said, “I know, we need to change that.” Which is true. So Wednesday was a pretty boring day.

Thursday - So this day was the best day of the week, by far! We woke up and just knew it was going to be a good day. We woke up and ran first. We didn't like that, but it was still good. But then, after morning stuff, at 12, we went with another couple of Elders to Crete, Nebraska. It’s this small town, but full of Hispanics! They were supposed to open up this area this transfer, but it didn't happen. So anyway, we got there at like one. We split up. I went with Elder Bahlmann, who actually came out with me on the plane. So we started walking on the good ole Nebraska dirt roads! Then we met up again, after an hour, at the car and got some water and left again. By the end of 4 hours of tracting, each group had taught 6 lessons each and GQ'd at least 6 more. It really was a place prepared by the Lord. Seriously, everyone was interested. So we're thinking about starting a branch out there, because no one there wants to drive 45mins to Lincoln. But, really, everyone was listening. I had no idea if I made any sense in Spanish. But they answered and asked questions. So it’s pretty cool. They were all Spanish too! So, yeah. We have a whole new teaching pool just in Crete. They are going to open it up as an area next transfer, so that should be cool. So after having that wonderful day, out there in Crete, we had dinner and then went to the church to have a fireside, for the youth, about sharing the gospel. We had little workshops and my companion and I taught about personal preparation for sharing. So the first two groups went great. I really felt like we influenced the people. But then the last one was just like teenagers. Oh my. If I wasn't a missionary, I would have laid into those kids. So disrespectful. I was upset. Toward the end, this girl said, “Can I leave?” My companion said "Yeah, do what you want. I don't care. I could be teaching someone who actually wants to be learning about Christ right now." Then I followed "How do you think the prophet would feel if he were standing right here?" They said, I don’t know. So I said. "Disappointed." And that’s how the fireside ended. It just makes me sad to see how much disrespect kids have for people. It really made me notice something. We all need to buck up and listen. Because, somewhere down the road, it will help us. And if you're a leader, take some initiative to talk to those youth who are being disrespectful. Because, honestly, they weren’t wasting MY time, they were wasting the Lord's time. I just had to vent about that. It was a great day, otherwise.

Friday - So my companion had a meeting with all the leaders in the zone - for like 3 hours. So Elder Bahlmann and I tried to find some Hispanics. But it didn't really work out all that well. We talked to a few, but no one was outside. After the meeting, I had exchanges with Elder Petersen for the day. He is way hilarious. We had a fun time. We didn't teach anyone, but we knocked on like 30 doors before dinner. Then we had this delicious meal! It was good. After dinner, we talked to this black guy. He pretty much wouldn't be quiet about how we are stupid. We were just laughing. He was telling us what we believe and how being a Muslim, stage 4 vegan is the way to go. Some people are just hilarious. They are just funny. He told us all this stuff and then he kept asking where everything started. Just dumb stuff. It was something to laugh about. I've learned to just laugh things off now. When people shut doors in our faces, I just laugh. So we learn to laugh and just be happy because it makes everything ten times better! After the day of really talking to no one, we just switched back and we fell asleep at like 9:30. We were so tired!

Saturday- That day we went out with this 18 year old member. He's our ward missionary. He's going to be so prepped for his mission. He comes with us once a week! We went and visited his friends and a bunch of people. We pretty much GQ'd and knocked doors all day. But it was fun! Then Efrain took us to Golden Corral. I didn't get sick. I have a stomach of steel now. Because I eat habeneros and hot stuff now. We taught Hector again though. It was a lot better this time. He committed to reading, praying, doing the right things and being a good person. It was good. I don't remember much else from that day. We hooked up with Fidel and went and visited some people he knows too. It was a fulfilling day. Our teaching pools have like quadrupled in the last week.

Sunday - Nothing much happened. Went to church, like normal. It’s weird with only like 20 people having sacrament in the relief society room. But, yeah. The rest of the day was just visiting less-actives. Not much. We had lasagna for dinner. A member from this other companionships ward gave them two lasagna's. We didn't have a dinner, so we went there. We called the whole zone looking for a meal we could eat, because eating cereal and vegetables every meal gets boring. Plus, it’s Sunday. We deserve a good meal! Anyway, that’s all for this week.

Well. I have basically no time left. But I love you all. Thanks for all your love and support for me. It’s just so awesome to have family and friends at home who support a mission. But you don't have to just be home - do some missionary work too! We are all supposed to share the gospel! So do it! It will bring joy to your life as it has brought joy to mine! I love you all and I hope you have a wonderful week!

Love always,

Elder Bradley Don Rigby

05 April 2010

Why hello family!


So did ya'll forget about me this week? Ha-ha j/k. It’s cool. I bet you guys had a busy week with conference and all. I had a busy week too. I'm now in Lincoln, Nebraska! Crazy huh? Yeah, I got transferred here on Thursday. My new companero is Elder Moore. He is from Sandy. He's way cool and I like him a lot. We teach about 50/50, so it’s way cool. I like it a lot here in Lincoln. Its way fun and we get to see other missionaries a lot more because they live like two blocks away and our ward is combined with an English ward. It’s way cool. Lincoln has a small town feel to it too. It’s kind of like Utah, but different. I don't know! So yeah, it was a busy week and we'll see if I can remember stuff!

Tuesday-We had district meeting in the morning. It was a good meeting. Then we went to the Ortega's house and ate some food. She made me cook the stuff, but she wouldn't let me use any utensils. I had to use my hands. Then I burned it! But hey, it was still good food! After that, we went and taught Teresa for like 10 minutes. She had to work. But, hey, it was a good spiritual lesson on the Word of Wisdom. After that we went to visit Abel, but he wasn't there. He's way cool too. So then we went out to Ralston to teach some referrals. Two of them didn't show up to the appointment, but we found this family, Jose’ and Ginelli Hernandez. We taught them the first lesson and they really accepted it. They want us to come back. Too bad I won’t be there. After that we went and visited the Cabrera family. It was good. We talked to everyone but the dad. We're hoping they come to church again. They just need a ride. The kids and the mom want to come back, but the dad is still offended and now has a drinking problem. So, hopefully, through the kids it will work out. After our lesson, we played soccer! It was way fun. After that, we went to teach Vanessa - they were all outside washing cars because it’s pretty warm here now. Her dad talked to us for an hour. He's cool, but yeah, he was hammered again. Every time we see him he's drunk. He says he wants to change, but it never happens. We taught him about profetas, but I just felt we needed to leave but he kept talking and talking. Drunk guys are crazy. Finally, we left. We thought, “He's a good guy, just always drunk.” We set up a return appointment for him. Then we had some dinner. We cooked some food that Jaime gave us on Sunday. It was still just as delicious. Then we went to see Gustavo and Marcos. Both weren't there. Linda had another migraine, so we couldn't talk to them. So we visited the familia Lopez. They are good. Then we headed to the north's apartment for the night because we had to go running in the morning and we needed to save miles. We had like 30 miles left and in the morning we had to go to president's house too.

Wednesday - Father Bruun canceled running. So we got up at 4:30am for nothing. So we slept until 6:30am and then did the usual stuff. Then we went to visit some families - not there. So we headed to the office to pick up my Easter package! Thank you so much, by the way. So much chocolate! But thank you again. It was just great! After being at the office, we went to president's house, because there was a new Spanish elder. That Elder Orellana from Orem! So I met him. We took him to 24th street to do some GQing and to kind of show him how the mission life is. It was sweet. I GQ'd a lot of people too. Elder Chinche would go one way, and I would go the other. At one point we were GQing like 3 people at once. It was insane! Then at another point, we were teaching two Jose's at once - the first lesson too. Then one left and we all started teaching the smoking one. Then Elder Chinche left and went on the phone for the bit. I knew it was about transfers. Transfer day is crazy. You don't know where you’re going or what’s going on. But he came back and didn't say anything. I was like “Uh??”, but we were in a lesson so I couldn't really do anything. Then the phone rang and I took the call. All I hear is "Que tal nuevo companero, soy Elder Moore!" I said, “....uh? I'm getting transferred? He said, “Ya. You're coming here to Lincoln with me!” I was like, “Oh.” We all thought we were staying the same and stuff. But, yeah. So after that, I called Tim Law to go visit him and a couple families I wanted to see. Then we went to continued on with Elder Orellana. We also taught another lady and she was way legit. We taught a good lesson, and then made a return appointment. She said that she wants to be baptized. Wow! Too bad I won't be there for that! So after that, we went back to president’s house and ate dinner and looked at the transfer board. Elder Ward is going zebra (English and Spanish speaking), which he was mad about. He likes Spanish. Two Elders, I don’t really know, came and replaced us. Elder Morrill is sad because they are not like him at all. He liked being with Elder Ward and me. But, hey, it’s ok. It’s just how it goes. After the president’s, I went and visited the Rivera's. Sebastian was so sad that I was leaving because we'd always play around during dinner. You know how I am... He gave me a hug. It was cute.

Then we visited the Law's (They gave me a lot of candy!) Little Austin Law is so cute. He tells me everything. He's so funny too. I'll miss seeing them.

Then I said goodbye to the Sandovals and went back to pack until 2 in the morning. It’s weird how you accumulate stuff....I was packed full. My backpack was only candy, ha-ha-ha, I had so much.

Thursday – We woke up at 5am and went to transfer point. It was fun! We all said our goodbyes and then got in the van and left. We were in a mini-van. Elders Ward, Knight, Brimhall, and Hudspeth. All Elders who are way sweet. Elder Hudspeth is from Provo, so we talked a lot. He's in my district now. He's way cool. I like him a lot. Then we arrived here and we had to kind of wait all day, though, for the transfer van to come back. We had like 3 people going to Omaha, so we couldn't really plan anything. So we GQ'd on the streets of Lincoln.

 I went with Elder Hudspeth. We were saying, “Ah. Where are we? This isn't Omaha anymore." We had fun though. After that, we all had a zone meal and then dropped the Elders off. I unpacked all my stuff, after everyone left our apartment, and then we headed out to visit some people. We just visited all the inactives, I guess. It was fun though! I met this guy, Luis. He is way cool! After that, we went home. We were way tired.

Friday- I woke up and worked out. That was a change. (I have a new goal to work out and get back into shape.) Here, in Lincoln, there aren't as many Hispanics. We have to work harder to find them. So that’s what we spent most the day doing until dinner. We then had a dinner appointment with an inactive. She's way nice. She just bought a TV exactly like ours. I said, “Oh, I have that at home...ha-ha.) Then we went and taught these three girls, Rosario, Lupe, y Karen. It was a good lesson. I like teaching with Elder Moore. We get along great and we teach 50/50. It’s good for us. After that, we went and helped Luis out. He needed help at his store and doing some stuff around the house. Then we went home.

Saturday - So Conference! Basically, that’s all we did all day. We had meals between and met with some less actives. I loved this conference! It’s weird out here, though. I learned stuff! Maybe it’s because I was paying attention and taking notes! Ha-ha. I really enjoyed it though. It was all about families! It was really good though. I think one of my favorites, well, actually, I pretty much liked them all. Priesthood session was hard though. We listened in Spanish. Some of the translators are crazy fast. But I got the gist of it. The whole time, when they would show outside of the conference center, I'm thinking, “Oh, hello home.” And I was also thinking, “Oh right about now my dad is doing this.” Sorry you had to work, by the way, dad. But, oh well. At this one stake center, the sound was off from the screen. Oh man it bugged me so bad. I guess I get that from pops. I can tell if stuff sounds bad too. I hate it. But it didn't sound bad at all. It’s just the sound was off. After the session, we had ice cream with our branch. It was cool. We didn't have any investigators come, but we had like 5 less actives - which was way good! After ice cream, we went home because it was 9:30 already. (We're an hour ahead of you here!)

Sunday- Happy Easter! So we woke up and proceeded with the routine and then went to Conference! We had two investigators show up. We are hoping to set them for baptism. Hector and Julia. They are boyfriend-girlfriend, so we have to fix some things, but not much. They split up, celibacy is in place. I guess they read the Book of Mormon together every day. Hopefully they liked conference. I think they did. After the first session, we had enchiladas at the Ward Mission Leaders house! It was good. I haven't had an enchilada out here actually. The last time was at home. After that, we went to the stake center, with the rest of our zone, to watch the last session. I love conference. It’s so great! Really. I felt the Spirit so much and I learned so much. After conference, we had a meeting, and then we went to visit some members before our dinner. So we park at the member’s house (that we're eating at). This guy runs and out and says, “They got in a fight and Fidel ran away.” We were like, “....uh? OK.” So we hopped in the car and went looking for Fidel. Sister Kreber (Fidel’s girlfriend) calls and said, “Dinner is canceled unless Fidel comes back and talks to me.” So we found Fidel and he said, “Uh, no, I am not going back there.” We were thinking, “Shoot....we're hungry and it’s Easter.” So we let him go, but then we pull up again. All we said was, “Get in the car or else.” He was like, “No.” So we talked about what happened and how we need to respect women. Then we said, “Get in the car. We'll take you home.” So he got in the car and we took him to Sister Kreber's house. We were thinking, “We're hungry. If you can't work this out, we are eating cereal for Easter.” So we went in. We just went to the balcony. We heard them fighting, but talking. Finally, she says, “Hey guys, (she's American, served her mission in Argentina) dinner is on.” My companion and I said in unison, “Yes, no cereal!” So we proceeded to have a delicious meal. About 5 other members showed up and it was like FHE. It was really good! The food was so delicious. Home-made guacamole too! Then tres leche cake! Oh gosh! Then while there, an investigator came too. So we taught her and asked her how conference was. Oh, it was just a great Easter day!! Then we went home and just had a candy fest. It’s way fun here in Lincoln. Elder Moore is way cool.

Today - I had a lot of letters to reply to because I haven't really written people back. I was lazy, but I did that this morning. Now we have basketball, laundry, and shopping - so much to do! Holy cow things are going so fast out here. I've been out 4 months. That’s so crazy to me!

So family, Lincoln is just great. I enjoy it a lot. It’s different driving somewhere else. I really enjoyed conference, but I noticed I paid more attention. I'm so glad I did because I learned so much more that I can do as a brother, son, missionary, and future father. We need to work on being a family more, because families are the most important thing on this earth. That is what I got out of conference. It’s so awesome to know that we can be together forever. I love it so much. Thank you all for your love and support. I miss you all and love you so much! I hope you have a great week this week! Love you!!!

Love, 

El Hombre, 

Elder Rigby

29 March 2010

Yo-


K so honestly this transfer has flown by. crazy crazy. I totally forgot my planner again, so I may not remember things that happened. Not much happened this week, but it went by fast! Omaha is great! It was 70 degrees today. I broke out the short sleeves!

Monday - We had dinner at the Sandoval’s house. They made chicken pot pie. It was delish. We taught them a lesson, and then we went home.

Tuesday – Let’s see.....hmmmm.....ahhhh.....uhhhh. I honestly don't remember Tuesday. I'm sure it was a day full of teaching people and doing work. Ha-ha. But I don't remember it. Sad. This is why I need my planner with me so I can do a decent report to you. I remember that we had dinner at the Gaytan's house. We had fish. It was so delish. Then Elder Morrill hit a girl in the face with a ping-pong ball. It was funny. Good day.

Wednesday - We had interviews with the president! It was good. We had a great chat about missionary work and everything. I thought it went well! After that I believe we taught Linda, then Vanessa, and, oh yeah, that night we went out with the president’s son. He went on his mission to Mexico somewhere. We couldn't find anyone to teach, but we made a couple of come-back appointments. Which was good. We had dinner at a members house. It was cool! She had the same plates and bowls as we do. I took a picture of it! I helped her cook it too. It was cool. I cooked a lot of stuff this week actually. After that, he took us home!

Thursday - We ran with father Bruun. I died. I got cramps in my legs, but then I put my football mode on and I started grunting, straight up crazy, and I ran so hard. I was way ahead. Crazy. After that, we taught Teresa. She is a progressing investigator who has come to church 3 times. Every time we ask her about baptism, it’s a little bit unsure. But this week hopefully she will commit. She is a way good person and she lives with a member, so we have high hopes for her. Then we went to the Rivera's! We made papoosa! Yes, we made it! (with Sister Rivera's help) She is so bomb! It was a fun little get together! Then we went with Sister Rivera to the Cabrera's and Moises. It went well. Then we went and saw Gustavo. That kid is crazy. He's my age. He's so funny. He's inactive, but he has a good heart. After that, we went home.

Friday - Hmmm....in the afternoon we went to Esmiralda’s and Flor's house. She said, “Come in, come in!” Then all the sudden, next thing I know, I'm making chile's relleno. Another good dish. While we were cooking with her, we asked her about her concerns about church and stuff. She said she really wants to get baptized so bad! But she has some stuff to do before that can happen. So we were way pumped about that. Then we told her to repent and right then and there, she took out a bag, filled it with beer, and took it to the trash!!! We were like - “uhhh......great!” It was weird, but way sweet. Then we had a good prayer and challenged them to go to church and they said, “Yes!” Later that day, hmmm...what happened, we tried to find some other people, but they weren't there. Then we went to the institute place to help set up for a ward activity and dinner. Guess what was there? Ping-pong and pool. ahhhh yah. So I played it, of course, for a little bit. I still have the skills to win! Ater that, we had some appointments, but no one was there. So we kept looking. It’s hard though. We have like no miles left (that we are allowed to drive)....ugh. But then we went to Maria Maryn. We team taught her with the sisters. She has a cool family. We like them a lot. She's been to church 3 times, but in an English ward. It’s close to her house. That’s a problem here. Our church is further away for a lot of people. So it’s hard, but we have faith. We taught them the 10 mandimientos (commandments). It was great. Then we went home. It’s like 25 minutes away from our casa.

Saturday - We went and served food at the Relief Society thing at the institute. While they were having their meeting, I was downstairs playing ping-pong against a young man. I won. Victory is mine!! Don't worry - only 2 games. Then we went to Council Bluffs for appointments. No one there! :( So we visited a family and taught them some stuff. They are good members. They are just having a tough time with the economy, ya know. After that, all our appointments canceled. :( So we went to this bridge to see if we could find some people. We did. A guy from L.A. decked out in Laker’s gear. He was hilarious. He said, "Those Utah Jazz fans are vicious, brotha" I said, “Ya man!! We know how to cheer!” After that, we had dinner at this Mexican place with a member. We talked to everyone there. We kind of gave a small sermon, it seemed. It was cool. Then we left and taught Moises. There has been drama - he gets taught by the English and Spanish missionaries because his wife is English. So we talked to him about that and church. It was weird. We then went home.

Sunday - We went to church - usual stuff. Then we had dinner with a part-member family. The guy, who isn't a member, works for Cox Communications and he comes to church a lot. He's a way cool guy, but he's hard to find to teach. So this was great! I talked to him a lot about you, pops. He said he would like to contact you and stuff. So, if I'm still here next transfer, maybe I'll have him email you. You can help the work go on that way, not only talking about communication stuff, but maybe some church things? idk. I'll let you know. But he fed us steak, chicken, and fish. Oh my, it was delicious. He's Puerto Rican, but grew up in the states. He's a great guy. We spoke in ingles with him and had a good lesson. It was really good! Then we went home. My companion hurt his back somehow, so he needed to lie down!

Monday - Today. We woke up and saw Moises while eating his delicious breakfast burritos! He is so funny. Then we had a Zone activity - Volleyball. It was good, but I wanted to play basketball. Then we went to the Sandoval’s and did laundry. Now we're here. Ha-ha. Later tonight, we are having dinner with this guy. I think he's taking us out to steak. Yes! I'm working out more, so I'm not as fat.

I love it out here. I have learned a lot. It’s crazy how things change and how I have changed. But I'm still me! I'm excited for General Conference. We get to watch every session and hopefully our investigators will come to them as well. Well, family, it’s been great talking to you, but I must depart! I love you so much. Make sure you are remembering your covenants with our Heavenly Father. The Spirit is just awesome. One time this week, I had a feeling we should go to the house of these people. I thought, “No way, because they are never home.” But we arrived and he was leaving. So we ran there and we talked to him. If I hadn't listened to the Spirit, we never would've seen him. It may be the first and last time I see him, but because of the Spirit, we were there to influence his life for 10 minutes. So keep reading, keep praying, and do everything you can to get closer to the Spirit, because it really is here to guide us. I love you all so much. Be safe and be happy.

Love always, you're ultimate brother and son,
Elder Bradley Rigby

22 March 2010

Hola! Como Estan?

So honestly, not a ton went on during the week! But I will try to remember. I'm a tad bit forgetful today of things. I forgot my planner, and the stuff so that I can put some photos up. We were hurrying to go to the zoo so I spaced it. Anywho…

Monday - Nothing happened. P-day, then we ate at a members house late and then came home.

Tuesday - I went on exchanges with Elder Ward. We taught 6 lessons together, and I taught 50/50 with him. It was so nice to actually talk and just not sit there. We taught Linda and her Husband Marcos a great lesson. They loved it. And we scheduled another appointment. Then we talked to Maritza. She went on forever...I totally zoned out. Then we taught two less active families. And then the night was pretty much up! It was fun being with Elder Ward. We get along well and we taught pretty good together too. It was fun having a change!

Wednesday - We changed back after going to see father Bruun because he was mad that Elder Ward and I didn't run. We were tired, and it was St. Patty's! We went on our GQ fest! Elder Morrill and I talked to like 18 people. It was fun and we did it every other. So it was way cool. Then I honestly can't remember what we did after that. It was way warm that day - like 40 degrees. We didn't wear suit coats. It was a nice day. And it was funny seeing everyone drunk being hauled in buses. We went to a member’s house and had dinner, and then our appointment canceled, so we looked for references and went home and had a small district party.

Thursday- We woke up at 5 to go running with father Bruun. I ran 5 miles with that man. He's crazy. He's a member who goes running with us, and he believes that we are his children, and he makes us call him father. It was funny. After that, chinche had a meeting, so I went with the English Elders and saw people. Then we went to this place Pepper Jack and guess what game was on? BYU!~!!! All of we missionaries were watching, and then we left and found out later about the score. Then the rest of that day. . . hmmm.....we saw Vanessa. She is doing well. She has a member living with her now, but kind of an inactive one. But it does help. We reset her for 10th of Abril (April), but it may not happen. The bishop said she has to be divorced, but then our Mission President said she can be baptized. So ya.

Friday - I can't remember a thing from Friday other than that we went to eat at the Robles house, and I got a package (labels). Thanks again Dad! You'll save my hands! ha. That Tim Law called us! I shot him an email to hit us up when he gets here.

Saturday - Saturday was a great day! We started out with eating lunch at the Bishop’s house! It was good - lasagna, vegetables, and soda pop. After that, we taught Angel - a father of a less active. We had a great lesson about the 10 commandments. Then we reset him for 10 of abril (April 10th). He is way excited about going to church and stuff! Then we went to Marcos (Linda was sick) and we taught him a great lesson. He asked, “How will God answer my prayers?” So we got down right there and prayed. We told him to pause after asking the question to God if it’s true. You could just feel the Spirit in the room. It was like slow motion. It was legit! We asked him how he feels and he said, “Amazing.” We challenged him to be baptized and he said, “I would love to!” So also 10 de Abril. After that. We went to a couple people, can't remember who and then we went and saw Luz. (my baptism) and it was good! She had some questions about a friend and we helped her out. She's a really good convert. She comes to church; she wants to go to the temple; she wants to serve a mission. It’s so great. THEN, I called Tim Law up and asked him if he needed help with anything, because we always need service hours, and our appointments canceled on us. So he said, “Yes. I have some couches I need moved in.” So we went there. I saw Tim, Becky, Sharon, and little Austin and Addison Law! It was weird seeing people I know, especially ones that are pretty close! But I helped with the couches, and oh my goodness, I am so weak! I could barely hold on to the couches and stuff. Wow! I am way weak. My muscles are so small, then I'm fat. Wow. Diet for me now! When I get back I might have to go on The Biggest Loser! Ha-ha. Just Kidding But really, we've all been talking about changing our diets. Then after helping move, we talked. Then Tim said, “Have you eaten dinner? Do you have appointments tonight?” We said, “No.” So he took us to Applebees! We got some steak and ice cream, oh man. it was so delicious. I was so grateful for it. AND the BYU game was on again.  So we watched that while we were talking and eating. Sharon told me about Erica and I didn't believe her, so she texted Sarah. The text back said, “YES BRAD, she's engaged.” And I just started laughing. It’s just weird. Really, it’s just funny to me. I'm happy for her though. We stayed there and ate, played with Austin, and talked with the family and then left! We went home and planned.

Sunday - We got up and called all of our investigators and people we had taught. I prepared my talk. Then we left. We get to church. Two investigators showed up. (But not the two we were expecting.) Jaime and Teresa. They are part member family investigators, but they have been coming for a while. We just need to baptize them! After church. . . oh wait,. my talk went good. 10 minutes in Spanish. It was good. Then after church, we went to the north Elders apartments and ate din din. Then we were supposed to go the Trail Center with Vanessa that night. But she canceled - just like church. It’s so hard to get people to come to church. Oh well. I hope it happens soon! So last night we just walked around and visited members! It was good. It was warm enough to walk, so we did so.

Today- So today, we woke up, ate, and then went to the zoo for 3 hrs! I will send pictures next week! (As I told you earlier, I forgot everything!)

Thanks for the update on the cougs! I never really knew how the last game ended up. Allergies are good so far, but hasn't really began to be Spring. Just warmer. Wow. Bryan is already leaving? Weird! Doesn't Jordan leave Wednesday? Weird. Everyone is leaving. Mom – so, yes, I'm smiling! Always smiling!

Thank you all for your support and love. It’s going great out here. I mean there are rough patches, but life has rough patches. so I just have this in my mind: "TACKLE YOUR GREATEST TRIALS WITH YOUR GREATEST SMILES!!" That’s the quote of the week for all ya'll. I love you so much, and miss you. I hope you have a great week, all of you!

Love your favorite son, brother, and missionary,

THE ONE AND ONLY

Elder Bradley Don Rigby

15 March 2010

Hola Mi mejor amigos!

What it do everyone? So this week thank you all so much for writing me!! Now I have some good stuff to write back to siblings! Thank you so much. I love reading about your lives and hearing the joys!

I'm getting used to the weather now. It’s like 30's now, so it’s way warm! I don't get cold at all. It’s pretty weird how I'm used to the climate already

I'll get down to business on the weekly agenda for ya'll!!

So Monday, after I emailed ya'll, we went to our obispo's house. He's the man! We had pizza and planned things that we could do for the ward so people will magnify their callings and really start bringing more to the gospel. Because that’s what we all need to do as members of the church. (Moses 1:39 "to bring to pass the life and immortality of man")(don't make fun of me if it’s wrong, I've been only reading in Spanish!) That’s all we did that night!

Tuesday- I had my first set of exchanges! I went to the Benson area with one of the ZL's. His name is Elder Cahoon. He's from Alta, Utah, and he plays football for the U. We got along way good! It was so weird to teach in English. I could actually share stuff and not stumble over words. It was legit. We had fun! Elder Cahoon thinks I should be a zebra; he's like "You're so good, and you've been out like 3 weeks? Wow, you’re a spiritual bear." I was like, “Uh. thanks?” Because, I don’t know, in Spanish, I don't talk a ton, but in English, I just unloaded. I even GQ'd some Spanish people! I referred them to Elder Morrill and Ward. And, I guess, one of the people I GQ'd, has been looking for a church that has the complete gospel and the example of Jesus Christ. So they are probably going to be set! which is awesome, because the north elders have had some trouble finding people to baptize. They are finding a lot more people when we all do the GQ things! So its way good.

Wednesday- We had district meeting after Cahoon dropped me off. I had to train, in Spanish, about charity and love. It was good. I like teaching a lot. I just wish I could be completely fluent and speak what I want to say. The rest of the day wasn’t so good. Everyone seemed like they were busy! But we just gave them cards and tried to go back. We taught a good lesson to a new investagadore. She recepted it very well and so did her husband. We soft set them for baptism, and they are thinking about it. We haven't seen them since. They are never home. Then we went to see our sets. Vanessa and Ires - Not there again....durn!

Thursday- Was zone conference! It was way good! We learned about teaching simply and inviting the Spirit! Just pause and let the Spirit in. It was really good. I think it will really improve the mission. We just teachify! (teach and testify) and then we invite people to be baptized, just listen, don't butt in and say something. Let the Spirit teach. After zone conference we went to the Rivera's house. They are funny. Their little boy is hilarious. Sister Rivera and her boy (Sebastian) went to see our sets, not there. So we went to a referral and we found a family of 4 all baptizing age! We spoke so well and Sister Rivera added her testimony and they are good people. We are hopeful for them. Families are great, but hard to find them all together! We then went clear out to like 150th and team taught with these sisters who have another family! It was great! That’s another hopefully. So we have three good families right now: Sanchez, Vazquez, and the Martyn's. I'm really hoping for them!

Friday- This day was pretty good! We taught 3 new guys- Pedro, Pedro and Enrique! They are sweet because THEY called us. I GQ'd him and then Wednesday, he called us and wanted us to come over. So we did and had a really good discussion. They want to learn more. We are going to see them tonight! We teach so many people, it seems, and they always seem way good until the 3rd lesson. Then they always read some anti stuff, which is sad, but I have faith and hope for all of them! After Pedro, we went and visited Moises at the restaurant. He's so awesome! He's such a good guy. He committed to going to church next week too! He says he's liking it more and he's been reading the BOM and it’s a blessing – which is awesome. After that, a kid in our ward needed help with math, and so we went and helped him! It was hard to remember fractions and stuff. But I did it! Then we went the hospital and gave a blessing to a kid who has a brain tumor. He is from Lincoln and we were called by his girlfriend, who is an investigator. It was a good experience. This lady, his aunt, was repeating our blessing aloud. It was kind of weird. They do that a lot here - repeat our prayers and blessings aloud and say AMEN, or HALLEJUHA! It’s funny. After that, we went home.

Saturday - We went to the Robles house for breakfast. Oh my yummy! Pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage, biscuits, just a homemade, American meal that I haven't had since I left home! It was so good. Then we went to the visitor’s center with a member’s boyfriend and watched the Joseph Smith film. I fell asleep during it. I was so tired and I've seen that film like 10 times since I've been here. But they didn't see me so don't worry. It was only for a second. ha-ha. We went on a tour and then the other family from 150th came too. It was good! I liked it. Then I filled out a family history thing because I keep seeing a Jane Rigby on a wagon trail journal. She said she'll look. After that we had a meeting for stake conference that we had to translate. Then no one was home all night. It stunk! So we went home at 9...boo!

Sunday- I woke up early because of stupid day lights saving. I definitely wasn't happy about that. Then we went to stake conference to translate again. It was so weird listening in Spanish and English at the same time....I was getting a head ache. I had to search for the scriptures in Spanish and give them to whoever was translating. One investigator came, which was way good! She's the one we are team teaching with the Sisters. Her name is Maria, she really likes our church! After stake conference, we visited 5 less active families to see what’s up. Most of them were half asleep. Then we went to go see our sets. Apparently Ires is missing and the cops are looking for her - bad news. And Vanessa is pregnant. So we were happy about that I guess. But a member that just moved here is way good friends with Vanessa, so she is going to be a big help! I hope all is well though. After that, I can't remember what we did. We have been trying to drive less.  We get 1140 miles a month to cover a 70 mile wide area. We get just as many miles as English missionaries who have like a 10 mile wide area. So the north Elder and we always have to worry. We are going to talk to the President about it, because, seriously, now we have to go clear out to 150th for two families (which is like 50 miles round trip), and we have some people in Iowa. So hopefully we can figure something out where we can still preach the gospel to the people and not just cut them because we can't drive there.

Monday- Today we woke up and just kind of chilled. Elder Morrill and Ward came over. We just talked, then we went to the Sandovals. They are so bomb. They are way funny. We did laundry and then we went to Thrift World. It’s like DI. I found some way sweet ties and some good Spanish gospel singers! By the way, have you ever heard of Rebecca Lopez? She's from BYU and she's so good. We love listening to her. I also got a little tote bag. It’s been a good, fun day as a district. I love it here. Omaha is pretty ghetto and it’s way different than Utah. It kind of looks alike, but like 50 times dirtier, a lot more homeless people, and people begging for money. A lady followed us for like 8 minutes in the store asking for money. So finally Elder Morrill gave her a quarter and she walked off. Good times.

Family, I love you all so much. You guys are great. Thanks for the videos; they seriously brought me so much joy! You guys are so awesome. I can't wait to hear from you next week. I love reading this stuff. It’s just great the family and all. It’s weird that we're all growing up, but I'm proud of each and every one of you. Keep working hard. This experience has been a blessing in my life. It has gone by fast. I can't believe that I've been here for a month. It really is quite crazy how fast it goes! But it’s awesome - wouldn't trade it for the world. Los quiero mucho familia!!! Tengan buen semana!!!

-the ONE and ONLY!!!!!
Bradley Don

8 March 2010

Hey Fam!

So I'm so out of shape, I decided. I just played basketball and I could only grab the rim with one hand! I still played pretty well. It was fun! We played for 2 and 1/2 hrs! Then Elder Curisinche wanted to leave - he's foreign and likes soccer. Ha-ha. And he was tired. But it’s all good!

Weekly update:

Monday. So after p-day stuff, we went to a members house and had FHE and dinner. It was good! Burritos, and some seafood dish. It was delish. Then they brought out a cake and sang to Elder Morrill. Then, I guess it’s a Spanish tradition to stick your face in the cake, so he did. It was good! Then we played some games and left. The Robles family is so fun. They are cool.

Tuesday: We had district meeting in the morning! Then we ate some lunch at this place. I had a huarache. They are so delish. So I've decided that all this stuff is legit Mexican food and all the stuff at the restaurant's at home…that stuff is Americanized! In real Spanish culture, they don't even have guacamole! They just have avocado! The rest of the day, all of our appointments fell through, except one with an inactive family. They are a way good family, but they just are lazy, I guess. We're trying to get them to come. But they didn't show up yesterday.

Wednesday: This day was a great day. In the morning we went GQing. And to answer dad's question, a GQ is a Golden Question, it’s pretty much tracting, but we just go up to people and ask them a random question like "Have you ever wondered why there are so many churches on the earth, yet there is only one God?" That kind of thing. Then we usually ask them for an address and phone number, and give them a card. It takes like 2 minutes..That way we find a lot more people. Between the four of us in our district, we contacted 40 people. I went with Elder Morrill. He's funny. He's a lot like me, we had fun. We questioned some random people, when we questioned a guy, he was like “Oh hermanos!” We said like, “Hey!” And then he said, “I'm hungry, I'm poor, do you have something to give me?” So we said, “Yes, we have this wonderful book about Christ.” Then he said, “I'm Catholic. I love Christ. He's my savior, but what do you have?” We opened the book to the picture of Jesus Christ, and he said, “NO, NO, NO, I don't want that.” We were like “Uh? ok.” There were a lot of people on the street that we were on. Like 40 Hispanics. They just sit there and wait for someone to drive up and give them a job for the day. It’s pretty crazy. After that, we had, seriously, all of our appointments fall through, except dinner with a member. We ate Fried Chicken. It was delish! I hadn't had that stuff forever! But then we went to some more appointments....nothing. Then finally, we decided (Elder Curisinche and me now) to go see our set.(a person set for baptism), so we went to her house! She was there! and she had brought a friend. Her friend is Ires. We taught the plan of salvation. And by the end of the lesson they were all crying. It was good. So we challenged her to baptism, and they both said “Yes!” So we have two sets now. But we have to move their dates because they didn't come to church this Sunday again....;ugh! We have stake conference next week.

So I hope they come to church so they can be baptized...that’s the thing. We teach them, they are progressing, but they don't come to church....ugh! That night, after we parked. I looked at the odometer and it said 777! Which, to me, means heaven. Automatically a good day.

 

Thursday: Elder Curisinche had a meeting all day, because he is DL. (District Leader) So we dropped him off, and I went with Elder Morrill and Ward. It was fun. They have some interesting investigators. We even found a Gandolfo's!!!!!! YES! So Ii had to eat there, of course. I didn't know they had such treats in Omaha! Usually there is nothing! But oh my goodness, it was so delicious to the taste. After that, we picked up my companion, and went to a family's house to eat dinner. We had floutas. They are kind of like tequitos, but with like a potato, cheese, chicken inside. They were delish.. Then honestly. Nothing happened. We GQ'd some referrals. But they didn't have time. After, we went with the ward mission leader to a less active family. The family was huge. They have a lot of problems, but they have really sweet spirits. We want them to come to church. Then we went to Moises' Restaurant. And he asked Hermano Goff so many questions, and Hermano Goff answered them all, Oh my! It was such a good conversation. I think it really did make a difference with Moises. He knows so much about the gospel. And he's such a great guy. Positive, always happy, and his wife is the same. Great family. I'm hoping something happens with him soon. Hermano Goff is going to work with him more. because with the Goff's family support, they would make good friends. After that, we went home at like 10. A tad bit late, but for good reason.

        

Friday. Nothing happened at all. We visited three people: the family that’s inactive from Tues., this girl, her name is Esmiralda, (We talked with her for a bit, but she's a predominantly Christian and she understood. But, I don’t know, we didn't feel it), then Jose’. (He's a way chill guy and he really understands the gospel. But it’s hard to find him. We tried seeing him Saturday, but nothing.) Then we came home. Friday went by fast, but not a lot of people were there.
   

Saturday. We went out to Council Bluffs, Iowa to find some referrals, We couldn't find them, but we had like 3 GQ's. So we visited a member and he came to church yesterday! Which was good. We were happy about that. Then we drove back west because we had some appointments. We found one, Alfonso. He and his wife, and two Peruvians were there. They have been to temple square and loved it. So we were feeling good. Then we showed them the restauracion video and then a field of questions happened. So yeah. My first “bible bashing” experience. We didn't want to at all. We were like, “Well....we have another appointment,” but then they just kept going. We were there for 2 hours. It was good, I guess, because they want to meet with us again. They said they will read the Book of Mormon and see what’s up. So we'll see what’s going on. They seem like great people, but they know their stuff! After that, we couldn't find anyone again.....ugh. So we just left cards, and GQ'd. A lot of our appointments always fall through, but we have tons of referrals to visit. Often they are busy. Sometimes not there, but we try to find them.
          

Sunday. None of our investigators came to church....ugh! But three less active families came and it was great! After church, we had dinner with the office sisters! The fed us some good Irish food. It was yum. Then we went and visited a less active, she has been a member for 20 years, but got offended at church. Then we went and taught a family and it was a perfect lesson! They understood it, they loved it. They want us to come back again. They are going to read the BOM as a family. Just all perfect! So we hope to keep on with them.

Today, woke up, did laundry at the Sandovals house, wrote some letters, then we went and played basketball with our zone. It was fun. My zone leaders are cool. One of them plays football for the U. But he's still cool - other than that. Now I'm here at a community library! This is where we do our emails - in a room of like 30 computers. It’s pretty cool. Nice place. I need to get going to get dressed and go to dinner with the obispo! I hope you all have a great week! I love you all so much. You are on my mind all the time.:) you guys are so awesome. Vayan con Dios!!

Love always,

THE Elder Bradley Don Rigby