Tuesday, June 29, 2010
I am not avoiding the MTC curse very well
Hey everyone. Now, I'd use spaces and enters and what-not, but the keyboard I'm on right now doesn't have a working enter key, so you'll just have to make do without paragraphs. Now, my week three was fascinating. On Monday, I spent a good portion of time writing email and letters, but I ran out of time to send a detailed email, so I'm sorry if my blog didn't get updated with one. On Wednesday, we did the usual Residence Hall service. I cleaned out the sinks again. I think that's something that I'm becoming the best at. LOL! Also, on Tuesday, I finally found the scale, and weighed myself. Now, the MTC curse is that you will overeat and gain weight. As I'm sure you've inferred by now, I'm not doing very well at avoiding that. I've gained about 8-9 pounds since I've been here. I blame the bad cafeteria food (Who told me it was good to begin with? The ravioli last night was just awful), but I also blame the fact that I'm over-indulging on sweets my parents sent me. Now, this week, all the new mission presidents came in, and half of the cafeteria was closed, as well as the gym. With half a cafeteria, and this many elders and sisters, room was tight, and there were no options for food. It sucked. As well as not having the gym. I've decided I want to do more cardio and strength training, because I want to shed some weight. So, I played soccer all week long. It was fun, but it started getting way too competitive, so I'm glad that we have our gym back. Now, everything else was normal. The fireside was awesome. The TRC stunk. And I'm at 50 seconds with my time, so I'll wrap up. With love, Elder Shepherd. P.S. DearElder.com is a great way to send me letters. Check It out. getting letters here rocks.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Time in the MTC
Hello everyone!
Just a little heads up. I received word that Marcus will be in the MTC until August 11th, 2010. Since he is learning Spanish he will spend about 8 weeks there!
So until them, all his letters will go there! He loves hearing from people, so write him a little note or something! He'll thank you for it!
After that he will head out to serve the people in San Fernando California!
Hopefully we will have pictures to post soon!!
Just a little heads up. I received word that Marcus will be in the MTC until August 11th, 2010. Since he is learning Spanish he will spend about 8 weeks there!
So until them, all his letters will go there! He loves hearing from people, so write him a little note or something! He'll thank you for it!
After that he will head out to serve the people in San Fernando California!
Hopefully we will have pictures to post soon!!
My second week, and my first sickness
Hello everyone
Nothing too big has happened this week. But, I'll try and flesh it all out for people, because a good majority of you are interested. (Which is probably why you're still reading this. XD lol)
So, P-day on Monday was awesome. I get to do pretty much anything I want until after dinner. Then, I have to go back to class. But, when you're in the MTC without an iPod touch, a Wii, or even a book of Sudoku puzzles, your choice of options is severely limited. So, we just kinda hung out in our residence hall.
On Wednesday, we had our very first Teaching Evaluation. That is when you schedule time with an LDS volunteer who acts as an investigator and you teach him a bit. Our "investigator" was a cool guy. We didn't get to teach him much, but we were messing up left and right. There was no fluidity in our teaching, and we didn't seem to have a general direction. He pointed that stuff out when we were done, so I guess that nothing much can be done about that. We'll definitely be going back to do more TE's in the future.
On Thursday, we did our first TRC, an acronym that I can't flesh out because I forgot. We basically went to three sets of "investigators" and intro'd ourselves in Spanish for 5 minutes. Those five minutes with each one was hard. Then, for the third, we had to teach the Message of the Restoration. That was not a lot of fun. We got better as we went, but it was still hard. Of course, it's all for our learning, so I'll just keep giving it my all.
Nothing else has really happened this week. My progress with the language is getting better, but I still have a bit to go. But, I'm focusing a bit more on learning the Gospel. I read a scripture (don't remember which) that said that first learn the Word of God, then your tongue shall be loosed. I'm going to try and take that challenge. I'll still try to learn Spanish, of course, but I'll focus a bit more on the Gospel.
I'm almost out of time, So I gotta hurry. I did an ab workout with a few elders in my zone that was called the P90-X. It's an absolutely evil workout that I never want to do again. That's about it, so I'll talk to whomever is still reading this next week.
With Love.
Elder Shepherd
(Side note: Hey everyone! It's Emily. Marcus didn't really elaborate on the title of his letter here. But he wrote me a separate letter and he said that his throat has been KILLING him. I think he's got a cold or possibly strep, but sad. I feel feel bad for him! But overall, sickness aside, he's doing very well! Thank you all for your love and support!)
Nothing too big has happened this week. But, I'll try and flesh it all out for people, because a good majority of you are interested. (Which is probably why you're still reading this. XD lol)
So, P-day on Monday was awesome. I get to do pretty much anything I want until after dinner. Then, I have to go back to class. But, when you're in the MTC without an iPod touch, a Wii, or even a book of Sudoku puzzles, your choice of options is severely limited. So, we just kinda hung out in our residence hall.
On Wednesday, we had our very first Teaching Evaluation. That is when you schedule time with an LDS volunteer who acts as an investigator and you teach him a bit. Our "investigator" was a cool guy. We didn't get to teach him much, but we were messing up left and right. There was no fluidity in our teaching, and we didn't seem to have a general direction. He pointed that stuff out when we were done, so I guess that nothing much can be done about that. We'll definitely be going back to do more TE's in the future.
On Thursday, we did our first TRC, an acronym that I can't flesh out because I forgot. We basically went to three sets of "investigators" and intro'd ourselves in Spanish for 5 minutes. Those five minutes with each one was hard. Then, for the third, we had to teach the Message of the Restoration. That was not a lot of fun. We got better as we went, but it was still hard. Of course, it's all for our learning, so I'll just keep giving it my all.
Nothing else has really happened this week. My progress with the language is getting better, but I still have a bit to go. But, I'm focusing a bit more on learning the Gospel. I read a scripture (don't remember which) that said that first learn the Word of God, then your tongue shall be loosed. I'm going to try and take that challenge. I'll still try to learn Spanish, of course, but I'll focus a bit more on the Gospel.
I'm almost out of time, So I gotta hurry. I did an ab workout with a few elders in my zone that was called the P90-X. It's an absolutely evil workout that I never want to do again. That's about it, so I'll talk to whomever is still reading this next week.
With Love.
Elder Shepherd
(Side note: Hey everyone! It's Emily. Marcus didn't really elaborate on the title of his letter here. But he wrote me a separate letter and he said that his throat has been KILLING him. I think he's got a cold or possibly strep, but sad. I feel feel bad for him! But overall, sickness aside, he's doing very well! Thank you all for your love and support!)
Monday, June 14, 2010
First Letter Home!
Hello (to every five people who will be reading this.)
I am currently sitting in the MTC laundry room, typing this email to the sound of washers, dryers, elders, foreign languages, and hopped up on peach rings. Ha ha! So, I'm not sure who will be reading this, but whomever is, I'm going to be sending out this weekly email to my dad, who can then forward it to you. (You better, dad!) So, what has the MTC been like? I think the best way to explain this is to start from the first day. When I hopped out of my parents' car on last Wednesday, I was nervous. I was ready for a new experience, but I was definitely nervous. It only took four steps before I turned around and looked at them one last time. They were talking with one of the traffic directors here, and didn't even notice I turned around. I silently said my last goodbye, then walked up to catch up to my Host Missionary. He took me to a building, where I went through and got the stuff I would need, including a special card, a first-day schedule, a room key, and *drum roll* my "Hello my name is" name tag. lol. He took me to my room, which is really a small room, about half the size of a regular classroom at Viewmont. I'm sharing the room with my companion, Elder Grandy, who, coincidentally, is going to the California San Fernando mission as well. He's a pretty cool guy, but what's cooler is that he's from Seoul, Korea. (That's where he claims he's from, but he's not asian) He was living on a US Military Base there, and went through all of Jr. High and High School there. Oddly enough, he doesn't really speak Korean. The other two elders, Elder Lyman and Elder Gregson, are also living in our room. And, also coincidentally, Elder Lyman is going to the California San Fernando mission too. We're practically the SFER triumvirate, I dubbed ourselves just five seconds ago. The first day was long. We had tons of class time, as we practically do every day. The longest we could be in the class is about 4 hours. It's long, but we're learning a lot. I feel like I've learned more Spanish here than my two years in Viewmont, and it's only the sixth day. So, the days after that were equally as long. It feels like the classroom goes on forever, and just when you think it's time to go to gym or a meal, you got more studying to do. Let's just say these have been the longest days of my life. But, every elder says that it gets better after the first Sunday, so I'll tell you guys next week what the current status is. So, I've heard that the food here is out of this world, and that I'm going to love it. So far, I'm pretty lukewarm to it. I've tried a lot of things I haven't had before, and I've mildly liked a lot of it. The only time I was really blown out was when they brought in BYU Creamery Ice Cream, with tons of different toppings. That made my day. Not to mention, they bring that in every Sunday, so a sundae on a Sunday rocks! Now, gym time has become my favorite time of the day. We get an hour to either play basketball, volleyball, four square, soccer, ladderball, or work out. Four Square has quickly become my game of choice, since I loved playing it in Viewmont. However, the other elders are ruthless in that game. They even have a saying, "There are no friends or companionships in Four Square." I believe them. I was actually playing so hard that I got a blister on my right hand. Not a lot of fun. My zone is pretty cool. A lot of them are experienced elders, that have been here for several weeks. They are pretty fun, and like to have some fun at night. I'm usually pretty serious at this time, because I like to write in my journal, but I'll enjoy the fun every so often. The greatest thing about my zone is that the zone leader's companion goes around each night, and gives out abrazos (hugs). Bro-hugs are kinda like saying, "There's no girls around here, so you'll have to do." Every one does it, but it's fun. Now, that's pretty much the extent of what has happened here my first few days. I'm looking forward to even more time in the MTC, but I can't wait until I get out into the field. (Because I'm already getting kinda sick of this place. Lol!) I know that the Lord will bless me for coming out here, and I know that my family will be blessed for sending me out here and supporting me. So, that's basically it. If you want to email me, just send it to shepherd.marcus@myldsmail.net. I was really looking forward to replying to some emails, but I had an empty inbox. :'( Also, if you want to see some pictures, my missionary blog is eldershepherd.blogspot.com. Now, this blog is private, so you'll need an account and permission, I think, to see it. Anyways, please write to me. I really do appreciate it when I get contact from the world outside of spirit-ual prison! lol!
With love, Elder Marcus Shepherd.
I am currently sitting in the MTC laundry room, typing this email to the sound of washers, dryers, elders, foreign languages, and hopped up on peach rings. Ha ha! So, I'm not sure who will be reading this, but whomever is, I'm going to be sending out this weekly email to my dad, who can then forward it to you. (You better, dad!) So, what has the MTC been like? I think the best way to explain this is to start from the first day. When I hopped out of my parents' car on last Wednesday, I was nervous. I was ready for a new experience, but I was definitely nervous. It only took four steps before I turned around and looked at them one last time. They were talking with one of the traffic directors here, and didn't even notice I turned around. I silently said my last goodbye, then walked up to catch up to my Host Missionary. He took me to a building, where I went through and got the stuff I would need, including a special card, a first-day schedule, a room key, and *drum roll* my "Hello my name is" name tag. lol. He took me to my room, which is really a small room, about half the size of a regular classroom at Viewmont. I'm sharing the room with my companion, Elder Grandy, who, coincidentally, is going to the California San Fernando mission as well. He's a pretty cool guy, but what's cooler is that he's from Seoul, Korea. (That's where he claims he's from, but he's not asian) He was living on a US Military Base there, and went through all of Jr. High and High School there. Oddly enough, he doesn't really speak Korean. The other two elders, Elder Lyman and Elder Gregson, are also living in our room. And, also coincidentally, Elder Lyman is going to the California San Fernando mission too. We're practically the SFER triumvirate, I dubbed ourselves just five seconds ago. The first day was long. We had tons of class time, as we practically do every day. The longest we could be in the class is about 4 hours. It's long, but we're learning a lot. I feel like I've learned more Spanish here than my two years in Viewmont, and it's only the sixth day. So, the days after that were equally as long. It feels like the classroom goes on forever, and just when you think it's time to go to gym or a meal, you got more studying to do. Let's just say these have been the longest days of my life. But, every elder says that it gets better after the first Sunday, so I'll tell you guys next week what the current status is. So, I've heard that the food here is out of this world, and that I'm going to love it. So far, I'm pretty lukewarm to it. I've tried a lot of things I haven't had before, and I've mildly liked a lot of it. The only time I was really blown out was when they brought in BYU Creamery Ice Cream, with tons of different toppings. That made my day. Not to mention, they bring that in every Sunday, so a sundae on a Sunday rocks! Now, gym time has become my favorite time of the day. We get an hour to either play basketball, volleyball, four square, soccer, ladderball, or work out. Four Square has quickly become my game of choice, since I loved playing it in Viewmont. However, the other elders are ruthless in that game. They even have a saying, "There are no friends or companionships in Four Square." I believe them. I was actually playing so hard that I got a blister on my right hand. Not a lot of fun. My zone is pretty cool. A lot of them are experienced elders, that have been here for several weeks. They are pretty fun, and like to have some fun at night. I'm usually pretty serious at this time, because I like to write in my journal, but I'll enjoy the fun every so often. The greatest thing about my zone is that the zone leader's companion goes around each night, and gives out abrazos (hugs). Bro-hugs are kinda like saying, "There's no girls around here, so you'll have to do." Every one does it, but it's fun. Now, that's pretty much the extent of what has happened here my first few days. I'm looking forward to even more time in the MTC, but I can't wait until I get out into the field. (Because I'm already getting kinda sick of this place. Lol!) I know that the Lord will bless me for coming out here, and I know that my family will be blessed for sending me out here and supporting me. So, that's basically it. If you want to email me, just send it to shepherd.marcus@myldsmail.net. I was really looking forward to replying to some emails, but I had an empty inbox. :'( Also, if you want to see some pictures, my missionary blog is eldershepherd.blogspot.com. Now, this blog is private, so you'll need an account and permission, I think, to see it. Anyways, please write to me. I really do appreciate it when I get contact from the world outside of spirit-ual prison! lol!
With love, Elder Marcus Shepherd.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Till We Meet Again
Hello Everyone,
This is Marcus' sister, or should I say, Elder Shepherd's sister. Wow that is weird. Last night Marcus was set apart as a missionary. We had his favorite dinner, Taco's and his favorite dessert, Crepes. We also had a chance to play some games and spend time together. The stake presidency came over, along with the bishopric from the ward. It was a very spiritual experience to hear the testimonies of my loving parents, and of the people who care and love Marcus. A very special blessing was pronounced upon him when they were setting him apart. We could feel the love and peace just knowing that the choice he is making to serve the Lord is right. We are so proud of Marcus and love him so much.
After the setting apart, we spent the last few hours together just hanging out and playing a board game as a family.
Then came the goodbye's for me and my husband. Of course, I cried. I still get choked up just thinking about it. But it's not that I'm sad. It's the spirit testifying to me that he is going to be ok. Even though it is hard that he will probably miss 2 more babies born into the family while he is gone, Christmas, Thanksgiving and other major events, I know it's ok. He is going to have his own special experiences, and I know he is going to learn so much.
This morning our parents and Marcus got up early and finished up the last of the little things to do. Then they headed out to Provo. I talked to Marcus for a moment on the phone before they left. He said he's doing fine, and the nerves hadn't hit him yet. But he asked "Em, you promise to keep my blog updated?" I said "Yes, I am going to do my best." So this is my promise to him that I will keep this blog updated, with letters, pictures and any other news that comes home.
I called my mom just as they pulled up to the curb at the MTC. She called me back shortly after. She wasn't crying. I was surprised. Until I said "How is he? How are you?" Then she started getting choked up. Then we both lost it. I had done well all day long until I talked to my mom. I know she's strong though, so she'll be ok.
I don't think it has fully sunk in yet. For now it just feels like he is out of town on a trip or something... Until a major holiday or something happens, or until Kyle invades the basement and takes over his room. Then I'm sure it will.
Kyle is the only one at home now. That is weird. But he needs all the attention he can get :) Hehe, I love ya Ky!
Well, hopefully the hardest part is over for us. We know we get to look forward to great things!
Marcus will spend about 8 weeks in the Provo MTC learning the Spanish Language and other gospel teachings. Then he will fly to California. We aren't sure the exact date yet but we will keep you guys posted.
Here's to Marcus...
HURRAH FOR ISRAEL!
This is Marcus' sister, or should I say, Elder Shepherd's sister. Wow that is weird. Last night Marcus was set apart as a missionary. We had his favorite dinner, Taco's and his favorite dessert, Crepes. We also had a chance to play some games and spend time together. The stake presidency came over, along with the bishopric from the ward. It was a very spiritual experience to hear the testimonies of my loving parents, and of the people who care and love Marcus. A very special blessing was pronounced upon him when they were setting him apart. We could feel the love and peace just knowing that the choice he is making to serve the Lord is right. We are so proud of Marcus and love him so much.
After the setting apart, we spent the last few hours together just hanging out and playing a board game as a family.
Then came the goodbye's for me and my husband. Of course, I cried. I still get choked up just thinking about it. But it's not that I'm sad. It's the spirit testifying to me that he is going to be ok. Even though it is hard that he will probably miss 2 more babies born into the family while he is gone, Christmas, Thanksgiving and other major events, I know it's ok. He is going to have his own special experiences, and I know he is going to learn so much.
This morning our parents and Marcus got up early and finished up the last of the little things to do. Then they headed out to Provo. I talked to Marcus for a moment on the phone before they left. He said he's doing fine, and the nerves hadn't hit him yet. But he asked "Em, you promise to keep my blog updated?" I said "Yes, I am going to do my best." So this is my promise to him that I will keep this blog updated, with letters, pictures and any other news that comes home.
I called my mom just as they pulled up to the curb at the MTC. She called me back shortly after. She wasn't crying. I was surprised. Until I said "How is he? How are you?" Then she started getting choked up. Then we both lost it. I had done well all day long until I talked to my mom. I know she's strong though, so she'll be ok.
I don't think it has fully sunk in yet. For now it just feels like he is out of town on a trip or something... Until a major holiday or something happens, or until Kyle invades the basement and takes over his room. Then I'm sure it will.
Kyle is the only one at home now. That is weird. But he needs all the attention he can get :) Hehe, I love ya Ky!
Well, hopefully the hardest part is over for us. We know we get to look forward to great things!
Marcus will spend about 8 weeks in the Provo MTC learning the Spanish Language and other gospel teachings. Then he will fly to California. We aren't sure the exact date yet but we will keep you guys posted.
Here's to Marcus...
HURRAH FOR ISRAEL!
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Whoops!
Hello again
Sorry, I'm not done with you yet. I just checked my e-mail, and I've got a new mailing address for the MTC. It is in the Writing Elder Shepherd tab on the side, but here it is:
Elder Marcus Keith Shepherd
MTC Mailbox # 226
CA-SFER 0811
2005 N 900 E
Provo, UT 84604-1793
This is the for-reals mailing address at the MTC. Please use this for letters and packages. And now, for really reals this time, I bid ado, complete with the same lame running gag!
Sorry, I'm not done with you yet. I just checked my e-mail, and I've got a new mailing address for the MTC. It is in the Writing Elder Shepherd tab on the side, but here it is:
Elder Marcus Keith Shepherd
MTC Mailbox # 226
CA-SFER 0811
2005 N 900 E
Provo, UT 84604-1793
This is the for-reals mailing address at the MTC. Please use this for letters and packages. And now, for really reals this time, I bid ado, complete with the same lame running gag!
My final 2 1/2 days, the official handing off of the torch, and wisdom teeth
Hello everybody (all 3 of you)
This is going to be my final 2 and a half days living in my house in Farmington, so I am getting very nervous, anxious, and excited. I'll admit, it's going to be a neat experience to get away from my family for two years, but I'll be frank...I'm gonna miss them! :'( I'm going to miss my parents, I'm going to miss my sister and her husband, I'm going to miss everyone in my ward, I'm NOT going to miss my brother (Total fabrication alert! Total fabrication alert! That is a falsehood!). So yeah, this is going to have to be a heckuva 2 and a half days with them. I'm missing them already. Also, from this point on, my sisters (and maybe parents) will be posting from here on. I'll give them a heads-up right now. You guys better report the facts, but be funny while doing it.......please! So yeah, nothing much to say right now, other than I got my remaining two wisdom teeth removed. I got the first two removed in February doing a reasearch study, so yeah, two wisdom teeth out for free. These last two I got out at an oral surgeon's office in Bountiful. Right now, it isn't hurting a whole lot, but it's reminding me why I hated getting them out the first time. Resisting the urge to suck in is not the funnest thing in the world. I'm surprisingly resistant to the pain, but fighting those natural tendencies sucks. I believe that covers everything. And so, I leave all of you to go and serve the Lord. May God bless you in your lives. Ado.*
*Running gag from last week. XD. LOL!
This is going to be my final 2 and a half days living in my house in Farmington, so I am getting very nervous, anxious, and excited. I'll admit, it's going to be a neat experience to get away from my family for two years, but I'll be frank...I'm gonna miss them! :'( I'm going to miss my parents, I'm going to miss my sister and her husband, I'm going to miss everyone in my ward, I'm NOT going to miss my brother (Total fabrication alert! Total fabrication alert! That is a falsehood!). So yeah, this is going to have to be a heckuva 2 and a half days with them. I'm missing them already. Also, from this point on, my sisters (and maybe parents) will be posting from here on. I'll give them a heads-up right now. You guys better report the facts, but be funny while doing it.......please! So yeah, nothing much to say right now, other than I got my remaining two wisdom teeth removed. I got the first two removed in February doing a reasearch study, so yeah, two wisdom teeth out for free. These last two I got out at an oral surgeon's office in Bountiful. Right now, it isn't hurting a whole lot, but it's reminding me why I hated getting them out the first time. Resisting the urge to suck in is not the funnest thing in the world. I'm surprisingly resistant to the pain, but fighting those natural tendencies sucks. I believe that covers everything. And so, I leave all of you to go and serve the Lord. May God bless you in your lives. Ado.*
*Running gag from last week. XD. LOL!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
