Last Monday, lets say a RC whose in town every now and then do to caring for mother and sister found us and had a conversation of his childhood for 3 HOURS. Not to be mean to the guy, but it's our PDay, we have other things desired to do, why not talk to us on any other day? Oh well, it happened. Maybe it needed to.
FHE had a total of 10 (including us missionaries and 2 children under 3 years old), E. Lofthouse was teaching, but the kids were being distracting, so he shifted his focus on keeping them attentive to himself while I continued in teaching the lesson. The children belong to Rebekah, whose been coming for the last 3 weeks, but due to the kids, we have been unable to teach, so we used this opportunity to do so. We taught about the Restoration. She loved it and pretty much bore testimony that she has joined the church (not quite due to baptism, but we're working on it).
After another D meeting, we served at the Parker's again. Luckily, most of the stuff has been sorted out, all that is needed now is to throw it away in the "dumpster-on-wheels". We are pretty much doing some "spring cleaning" and ohh is it looking like spring out here. The blossoms on the trees are opening and Lofthouse is singing the "popcorn popping" song every time he sees one.
Had dinner with the Naylor family. They are going to be officially moving from Texas to Trigg County in October (long after I'm gone :( ) We enjoyed their company as well as their stories. They shared their conversion story the FHE and it was just awesome. He was a "preach nothing but hell, fire and brimstone, Pentecostal", well the visiting teachers were visiting her, and he got curious about it and eventually joined the church. That was a little bit of a testimony builder for me to see that even the "worst" people can be softened enough to hear and love the message we share.
Had dinner with the Ahren's at Cracker Barrel. It's routine that I get the Country Fried Steak meal, in which I love dearly. Afterwards we visited 2 less actives whom were inspired for us to visit.Both of them are having hard times,(one bodily problems and the other family)and the Ahren's due to past experiences were able to testify and give advise as to how to solve it. May not be member missionary work, but if it is improving their lives, it works for me.
OHHH General Conference, always love it. Surprised it didn't rain during the opening scenes before it begins. Very inspiring. Little sad that no new temples were announced, but it makes sense for them to be focusing on those which are under construction before building more. Uchtodorf's Priesthood, and Bishop Stevenson's were my favorite.Stevenson's was great maybe due to the fact of using Olympic information that is new to me, due to missing them. When the text comes out, that's the first one on my re-read list.
After this conference session ended, I realized that it's the last one I will watch on the mission, and YES, I did watch the Spoken Word and loved it. Can't wait to get back into the routine of watching them Sunday mornings.
That's a wrap, till next time
--
Elder Terre Kieffer Short
Tennessee Nashville Mission
Greatest Mission on Earth!!!
Apr 13, 2014
March 31, 2014
First off, have some scary news to say, realized that I have 9 weeks left until I am home. Realizing this somewhat brought a tear to my eyes, never thought this moment would come.First, Family Home Evening, had a record turn out of 14 (including missionaries) 2 less actives present (one no one knew lived in the area) and 9 members with one investigator preset. The lesson had a real life analogy with a hard boiled egg and a glass Yoo-Hoo (yes, Yoo-Hoo) jar. Had the science experiment of getting the egg into the bottle and compared it to life, where we have to endure the pressures of heavenly laws and commandments to receive the ultimate blessing of being in Gods presence, or inside the jar.
Wednesday we had zone conference, my last one as a missionary. I'll admit, most of the meetings I didn't really pay much attention in, but this one was special. Sitting next to Hermana Hendrickson (going home at same time) we realize in unison that were both giving our departing testimonies as well as another 3 in this meeting. The group going home will be large. My departing advise was a phrase that has been repeated in my head from Preach my Gospel, and that is no effort is wasted. I've had them moments when I feel as if I'm unseccessful, but if I change my perspective and see that I'm only planting seeds instead of seeing the instant growth, it is all worth while. The fruit may not be harvested during my mission, but it hopefully will for future generations.
Had dinner with the Mission Leaders youngest son, whom served his mission in Colorado Springs Colorado and is a part member family. Answered some of her questions and relieved some of the good and bad memories of all 3 of our missions.
Saturday did more service at the Parkers. The scouting yard quickly is next week, so we needed to go through everything quickly to know what's being donated, kept or tossed. We leave their place with a coffee maker... yes, a coffee maker. That awkward moment that inside a missionary apartment is none other than a coffer maker. Don't worry, we ain't using it for coffee, frankly I'm scared to see me drink it. I can visualize myself as Twitchy on Hoodwinked, breaking the sound barrier as I run going crazy. We are going to use it for Roman Noodles, and hot chocolate... too bad didn't have it in Princeton with the cold temperatures.
Rebekah attended church services for the first time. Afterward we received word from the Sisters that Judy Gunn's (RC while in Princeton) twin sister desires a priesthood blessing due to her failing health. We go over and she instantly recognizes us when we were over to finalize Judy's baptismal record. She told the story in how she's nearly lost her leg and where and how intense the pain is. As she was retelling this story, inspiration came to me about the John Tanner Story. Looked it up on the iPad and watched the first half with her. His leg is diseased enough that all physicians told him to amputate the leg or you will die. He refuses, meets the missionaries and has the discussion. This is the part I wanted her to visually understand. John couldn't endure baptism due to the severity of the diseased leg. One of the missionaries simply states, "Did Jesus heal the crippled man at the waters of Bethesda?, if so, would that same priesthood power be restored? Do you have faith sufficient to be healed?" He did, leg healed and was baptized that very night and walked the 1/2 mile round trip to the lake on the leg that held no wight for 6 months. The priesthood enabled this miracle to occur.
I was led through inspiration to show this story to giver her more motivation to press on through the trials both of the leg and of quitting smoking. That blessing given is the most spiritually uplifting ones I've ever participated in yet given. It was a testimony builder to me about the reason and power that the priesthood can have.
Looking forward to General Conference. Anticipating to see some rain during the live shot of temple square as well as where new temple locations will be built. Hope you females enjoyed the Women's meeting, E Lofthouse got an email of both his mother and youngest sister in the choir, you've seen then, the sister was front and center on the camera.
Till next time
--
Elder Terre Short
Wednesday we had zone conference, my last one as a missionary. I'll admit, most of the meetings I didn't really pay much attention in, but this one was special. Sitting next to Hermana Hendrickson (going home at same time) we realize in unison that were both giving our departing testimonies as well as another 3 in this meeting. The group going home will be large. My departing advise was a phrase that has been repeated in my head from Preach my Gospel, and that is no effort is wasted. I've had them moments when I feel as if I'm unseccessful, but if I change my perspective and see that I'm only planting seeds instead of seeing the instant growth, it is all worth while. The fruit may not be harvested during my mission, but it hopefully will for future generations.
Had dinner with the Mission Leaders youngest son, whom served his mission in Colorado Springs Colorado and is a part member family. Answered some of her questions and relieved some of the good and bad memories of all 3 of our missions.
Saturday did more service at the Parkers. The scouting yard quickly is next week, so we needed to go through everything quickly to know what's being donated, kept or tossed. We leave their place with a coffee maker... yes, a coffee maker. That awkward moment that inside a missionary apartment is none other than a coffer maker. Don't worry, we ain't using it for coffee, frankly I'm scared to see me drink it. I can visualize myself as Twitchy on Hoodwinked, breaking the sound barrier as I run going crazy. We are going to use it for Roman Noodles, and hot chocolate... too bad didn't have it in Princeton with the cold temperatures.
Rebekah attended church services for the first time. Afterward we received word from the Sisters that Judy Gunn's (RC while in Princeton) twin sister desires a priesthood blessing due to her failing health. We go over and she instantly recognizes us when we were over to finalize Judy's baptismal record. She told the story in how she's nearly lost her leg and where and how intense the pain is. As she was retelling this story, inspiration came to me about the John Tanner Story. Looked it up on the iPad and watched the first half with her. His leg is diseased enough that all physicians told him to amputate the leg or you will die. He refuses, meets the missionaries and has the discussion. This is the part I wanted her to visually understand. John couldn't endure baptism due to the severity of the diseased leg. One of the missionaries simply states, "Did Jesus heal the crippled man at the waters of Bethesda?, if so, would that same priesthood power be restored? Do you have faith sufficient to be healed?" He did, leg healed and was baptized that very night and walked the 1/2 mile round trip to the lake on the leg that held no wight for 6 months. The priesthood enabled this miracle to occur.
I was led through inspiration to show this story to giver her more motivation to press on through the trials both of the leg and of quitting smoking. That blessing given is the most spiritually uplifting ones I've ever participated in yet given. It was a testimony builder to me about the reason and power that the priesthood can have.
Looking forward to General Conference. Anticipating to see some rain during the live shot of temple square as well as where new temple locations will be built. Hope you females enjoyed the Women's meeting, E Lofthouse got an email of both his mother and youngest sister in the choir, you've seen then, the sister was front and center on the camera.
Till next time
--
Elder Terre Short
March 24, 2014
Held another meeting of the Family Home Evening, which happens to be the best thus far as far as people in attendance. We had a total of 6 people pent with 3 investigators and members present. Keena was there, who picked up someone else, and Rebekah, whom is pretty much a golden referral. We were originally visiting her mother-in-law and had no real plans in teaching her. Invited her to the FHE and she came. At the meeting, she said once she gets a vehicle she plans on attending church as frequently as possible. We may have just stumbled upon the first baptism in the Cadiz area.
Wednesday had the district meeting in Hopkinsville. Had lunch at the Subway right next to the taj so multiple memories came back to me. After arriving back in Cadiz we decided to revisit some people we street contacted into. One was Nikki. Contacted her and the first words out of her mouth were "my grandmother who raised me is a Mormon who moved from Utah to Eddyville (within the Branch boarders) so I know a lot of information about the church through her". Due to her knowing some information of the church, she's in the same situation as was Chris Wheaton, he knew the stories, been to the sites, and is now converted, she may be golden as well. Informed her of the FHE and hope that she may be able to attend it. Due to the Asbridges moving to Morgantown last month, the primary disappeared, if Nikki and the kids show up to services, there will at least be a primary, not 50+ but for Kentucky it will do.
Reaped the first major blessing with the iPads. Due to 3 sets being within the one branch and it's a significant distance to travel for our cooardination meetings with the mission leader, we got permission to use FaceTime to coordinate our efforts. Now we can have our coordination meetings and be effective with them.
Saturday was pretty much an all day service day. Assisted with a less active (Sis Thurman with Shailene) who is moving from her trailer to an actual house next door. We were there to assist in painting the walls. The painting of the wood a brown color so somewhat reminded me of the cabin the family owned near Park City. Thinking about that multiple memories returned in which I've shared a few of them out here, everyone loves the story of me bottle feeding Max the Moose (if possible, can you send me a photo of it).
After painting service, we assist the Parker's in cleaning out the garage. The vehicles on the property are ll broken down, with one just needing to reinsert the engine block within so they can use it. The plan is to clean the garage. This event was more or less a prerequisite. They can assist in the work, as well as attend the Family Home Evening, but due to no working vehicle, and a family of 5 present, they must be transported by others. Once the car is fixed, they can do things on their own, that was the reason why we were there, enable them to fix the vehicle sooner so the work can even hasten further along. Talk about a lot of stuff within a small garage. About 5 hours later, we finally get about 95% of the contents out so the wife can organize and decide what's being kept or what's being trashed or donated.
After cleaning, I discovered something that I didn't know if i'm allergic to cats. One cat they have i held in my arms as if it were a baby. Within 10 minutes after setting it down, I sneezed repeatedly (2 sessions of 6 within 5 minutes apart) then they realize my eyes and my eyelids are turning red. Luckily it was getting time to return home, they give me some equivalent of Benadryl, but due to driving home, I didn't want to risk it. Took it once I was home, within 30 minutes I was asleep and didn't wake up till 7. I slept through the alarm and Lofthouse showering. The combination of a good days work and medicine really help me go to sleep, lesson learned.
Due to Stake Conference last week and General Conference within the next two, this week was Branch Conference within the next two, this week was Branch Conference in which the entire Stake Presidency was present as well as some other stake auxiliary leaders to "critique" in how the branch is doing. Seeing President Craig and hearing him speak is just amazing. The lesson in priesthood has a funny moment. Someone stated that no one here is going to be an area authority or in the quorum of the 70, however, Craig's been bishop for 6 years and is now stake president and he isn't even 40, he has some potential.
Pictures are of a pig in town. Only way to remember that Cadiz is home of the Ham Festival.
--
Elder Terre Kieffer Short
Tennessee Nashville Mission
Greatest Mission on Earth!!!
Wednesday had the district meeting in Hopkinsville. Had lunch at the Subway right next to the taj so multiple memories came back to me. After arriving back in Cadiz we decided to revisit some people we street contacted into. One was Nikki. Contacted her and the first words out of her mouth were "my grandmother who raised me is a Mormon who moved from Utah to Eddyville (within the Branch boarders) so I know a lot of information about the church through her". Due to her knowing some information of the church, she's in the same situation as was Chris Wheaton, he knew the stories, been to the sites, and is now converted, she may be golden as well. Informed her of the FHE and hope that she may be able to attend it. Due to the Asbridges moving to Morgantown last month, the primary disappeared, if Nikki and the kids show up to services, there will at least be a primary, not 50+ but for Kentucky it will do.
Reaped the first major blessing with the iPads. Due to 3 sets being within the one branch and it's a significant distance to travel for our cooardination meetings with the mission leader, we got permission to use FaceTime to coordinate our efforts. Now we can have our coordination meetings and be effective with them.
Saturday was pretty much an all day service day. Assisted with a less active (Sis Thurman with Shailene) who is moving from her trailer to an actual house next door. We were there to assist in painting the walls. The painting of the wood a brown color so somewhat reminded me of the cabin the family owned near Park City. Thinking about that multiple memories returned in which I've shared a few of them out here, everyone loves the story of me bottle feeding Max the Moose (if possible, can you send me a photo of it).
After painting service, we assist the Parker's in cleaning out the garage. The vehicles on the property are ll broken down, with one just needing to reinsert the engine block within so they can use it. The plan is to clean the garage. This event was more or less a prerequisite. They can assist in the work, as well as attend the Family Home Evening, but due to no working vehicle, and a family of 5 present, they must be transported by others. Once the car is fixed, they can do things on their own, that was the reason why we were there, enable them to fix the vehicle sooner so the work can even hasten further along. Talk about a lot of stuff within a small garage. About 5 hours later, we finally get about 95% of the contents out so the wife can organize and decide what's being kept or what's being trashed or donated.
After cleaning, I discovered something that I didn't know if i'm allergic to cats. One cat they have i held in my arms as if it were a baby. Within 10 minutes after setting it down, I sneezed repeatedly (2 sessions of 6 within 5 minutes apart) then they realize my eyes and my eyelids are turning red. Luckily it was getting time to return home, they give me some equivalent of Benadryl, but due to driving home, I didn't want to risk it. Took it once I was home, within 30 minutes I was asleep and didn't wake up till 7. I slept through the alarm and Lofthouse showering. The combination of a good days work and medicine really help me go to sleep, lesson learned.
Due to Stake Conference last week and General Conference within the next two, this week was Branch Conference within the next two, this week was Branch Conference in which the entire Stake Presidency was present as well as some other stake auxiliary leaders to "critique" in how the branch is doing. Seeing President Craig and hearing him speak is just amazing. The lesson in priesthood has a funny moment. Someone stated that no one here is going to be an area authority or in the quorum of the 70, however, Craig's been bishop for 6 years and is now stake president and he isn't even 40, he has some potential.
Pictures are of a pig in town. Only way to remember that Cadiz is home of the Ham Festival.
--
Elder Terre Kieffer Short
Tennessee Nashville Mission
Greatest Mission on Earth!!!
March 17, 2014
First things first, HAPPY ST PATRICKS DAY!!! Unfortunately even if you tried, no pinching me because I'm wearing Aunt Jill's green tie today.
With the beginning of this transfer, I realized something that is somewhat interesting and scary at the same time, when this transfer is complete, Elder Lofthouse WILL BE the longest companion I have served with thus far as a missionary. Just starting the transfer he's broken the record which is only 2 transfers (most of the past companionship I've been in), with this being the 3rd together, he is in the history books now.
On Monday we decided to visit the only antique shop in town that we haven't gone through yet. Cadiz has 4 downtown alone, these things are so cool!!! Having a history lesson just by walking through them. Looking around, I found two things that I ultimately purchased. A small Kentucky license plate, and a piece of memorabilia with the Hopkinsville Ferrell's Hamburgers location painted on it. Going through all these antique shops is making me curious if there is any in Salt Lake, if so, I may visit them just to see what is there.
Driving home that night I notice a frog in the center of the road hopping along. I say out loud that it was a frog. Lofthouse gets out of the vehicle, picks it up and brings it inside the vehicle. We drive 200 feet home and we contact our downstairs neighbor and inquire if she wants to see the frog. Before she arrived, the frog got "lost" within the vehicle, so now we are looking everywhere inside the vehicle for a 3" diameter frog. We find it, tucked behind the console where the radio is, then it hops around all the seats within, going under or around all of them before we finally catch it. We ultimately give it to the neighbors due to the "no pets as a missionary" rule, it works out to there being two kids under the age of 4 present in the home.
Zone Meetings are amazing. Being in the presence of a large quantity of missionaries is always fun. This one was really good since I have served in the same relative area with a few of the new missionaries in the zone, as well as multiple missionary sets present are resenting multiple previous areas in which I've served in. The new zone leader was one of the original replacements of me in Gallatin, the two new Spanish Sisters I've been around before, one in which was in the Russellville, Hopkinsville, Elkton, and Morgantown present. Even Elder Dudley from the MTC district is in this zone. When this zone meeting ended, I made the somewhat scary realization, I have 2 zone meeting left with one of them being a zone conference, which will occur in two weeks. I'm starting to enjoy these meetings. Before I was a complainer, now I actually look forward to them and attempt to get something out of them and apply it to myself at least.
Hopkinsville Stake Conference occurred. Had a reunion with a lot of people from Russellville, Elkton, Hopkinsville, and felt happy to do so. Patriarch Fears, Carmichaels, Big and Little Cliff, Abneys, Sis Saturley, Matt and Melissa Carroll, Shoemakes, Lisa Bunce and many more. The real highlight was seeing the Cliff JR Kennedy clan again. Jessica, Alyssa and little Kaleb showed up to stake conference late, but the fact that we were able to see each other again was downright amazing.
Wanted to take photos of everyone I was having a reunion with in the stake conference, but I was too busy recognizing and having a conversation with them that I was unable to get any photos taken.
March 10, 2014
Sorry for the somewhat interesting update last week. The snow storm that came through was an interesting one. We get called in early Sunday night due to the sleet only to wake up with a good 2 inches of on the ground. Two inches of snow in Utah, here in Kentucky, IT MEANS THE WORLD!!! Pretty much the entire county shuts down due to having very little snow removal tools, which in turn prevents us from emailing directly, thank goodness for the iPad, it saved the day. The weathers been so bad out here lately that the school year odds are will be forced to make up the missed days all the way till middle of June... doesn't sound fun, nearly half a summer gone by and still in school.
OK, so most of the apartments I've been in have a "Missionary Memorial" wall or item which all past missionaries sign indicating that they have served here. Due to being one of the original two, we're contemplating ideas of what to do. most of them are wooden study tables which they engrave their names into, however, we don't want to do that, we want to do something original. The thing we are wanting to do is to BUY A PIG. Not a live animal, more along the lines of a concrete modeled statue. Due to Cadiz having the Ham Festival every year, pigs are popular out this way, so no better way to blend into the area and have missionaries talk to others saying "I've signed the legendary pig of Cadiz." Nearly every business has a modeled pig on its grounds, and most of the houses have one on the property as well. The down side is that they are currently out of stock, with another shipment arriving at the end of the month, and once they are in stock they are gone quickly, we are hoping we can get one for the apartment and to paint it up in missionary attire so future missionaries can sign away and become legends for serving in Cadiz.
Driving to district meeting on Wednesday was a bit of an adventure. The snow storm is over and nearly 3 days later, the roads are finally plowed and safe and able to be driven on, or that is what we thought. Driving to Hopkinsville, once we enter Christian County side of the main road, no plows have even touched it yet. Let's say the only dry patches of road happened to be the tire ruts of previous cars that have driven on the road. Driving in tire width lanes for nearly 15 miles got a little tedious due to the bumpiness, also due to travel. Of course, the one day I leave the camera behind, this adventure occurred. It was a perfect opportunity for a few pictures and or videos. I'm never going to see and do that again. Utah's very prepared to clear the snow off the roads even during the storm, here, not so much. In fact, rumor has it that the nearby counties are completely or close to being out of salt for the snow on the roads, so if another severe storm hits, its game over, no melting of the snow here in Kentucky. Made a comment to someone that Utah, to add some additional business to the state should sell some of the salt at the Bonneville Salt Flats to places that need it for the snow melting process (i.e. Hopkinsville) because Utah has plenty. We don't need all of it.
Contacted Benjamin, a referral from the Hopkinsville missionaries. Due to an automobile accident, his mind doesn't keep some of the information said, but he understands that which we've talked about, it's just he sometimes forgets within that week what previously happened. He has some potential, may be one of the first baptisms in Cadiz. We then went visiting some less actives with the Branch President. According to records, there was a referral sent by herself stating that she is a member, but was saved in the potential section. Finally was able to visit her, invite her to the night was with another less active named Roger Puckett. He lived out in the boonies a good 7 miles from the apartment, but as we were driving, the branch President states "this is the reason why school is cancelled tomorrow, the buses cannot drive on the snow out here". The snow was bad enough that it took us nearly 30 minutes to go 3 miles of driving, no plows have touched it yet due to being out in boonies. We get there, luckily he was there, but stated "I'm currently an active Baptist and don't desire to return", all that driving and entertainment for someone that doesn't want us to return. May sound depressing, but according to Preach my Gospel, it is effective and efficient.
Went tracting and contacted a few youth when the mother of one of them comes out and yells "you know you ain't supposed to be talking to strangers, get inside now", that awkward moment as a missionary when parents get within conversation and ends it abruptly. If I followed that advise of no talking to strangers, I WOULD NOT BE A MISSIONARY, that's what we do, but the mothers words have more authority that that of a young missionary.
Transfer calls have come in: WERE BOTH STAYING IN CADIZ!!!!!!! There are lots of changes going on within that area though. E Cottam (who knows the Barlow twins) is being transferred out to Nashville, Hopkinsville Spanish is being whitewashed and one of them coming in is Hermana Hendrickson, whom was in district when I was in Gallatin, and whom is going home at the same time as me. This transfer will be fun. Realized that I have two more to go, hope I will end the mission here in Cadiz.
Had another baptism within the branch on Sunday. Today was the baptism of Chris Wheaton, whom we started to visit with right before we were transferred out of Princeton. With this baptism, I realized that is the 4th one within the last 12 weeks within the Princeton Branch, this area is exploding with recent coverts.
Photos are of me about to have a snowball fight, as well as something you will only see in Kentucky, them folks supporting the UK Wildcats in any way possible
--
Elder Terre Kieffer Short
Tennessee Nashville Mission
Greatest Mission on Earth!!!
OK, so most of the apartments I've been in have a "Missionary Memorial" wall or item which all past missionaries sign indicating that they have served here. Due to being one of the original two, we're contemplating ideas of what to do. most of them are wooden study tables which they engrave their names into, however, we don't want to do that, we want to do something original. The thing we are wanting to do is to BUY A PIG. Not a live animal, more along the lines of a concrete modeled statue. Due to Cadiz having the Ham Festival every year, pigs are popular out this way, so no better way to blend into the area and have missionaries talk to others saying "I've signed the legendary pig of Cadiz." Nearly every business has a modeled pig on its grounds, and most of the houses have one on the property as well. The down side is that they are currently out of stock, with another shipment arriving at the end of the month, and once they are in stock they are gone quickly, we are hoping we can get one for the apartment and to paint it up in missionary attire so future missionaries can sign away and become legends for serving in Cadiz.
Driving to district meeting on Wednesday was a bit of an adventure. The snow storm is over and nearly 3 days later, the roads are finally plowed and safe and able to be driven on, or that is what we thought. Driving to Hopkinsville, once we enter Christian County side of the main road, no plows have even touched it yet. Let's say the only dry patches of road happened to be the tire ruts of previous cars that have driven on the road. Driving in tire width lanes for nearly 15 miles got a little tedious due to the bumpiness, also due to travel. Of course, the one day I leave the camera behind, this adventure occurred. It was a perfect opportunity for a few pictures and or videos. I'm never going to see and do that again. Utah's very prepared to clear the snow off the roads even during the storm, here, not so much. In fact, rumor has it that the nearby counties are completely or close to being out of salt for the snow on the roads, so if another severe storm hits, its game over, no melting of the snow here in Kentucky. Made a comment to someone that Utah, to add some additional business to the state should sell some of the salt at the Bonneville Salt Flats to places that need it for the snow melting process (i.e. Hopkinsville) because Utah has plenty. We don't need all of it.
Contacted Benjamin, a referral from the Hopkinsville missionaries. Due to an automobile accident, his mind doesn't keep some of the information said, but he understands that which we've talked about, it's just he sometimes forgets within that week what previously happened. He has some potential, may be one of the first baptisms in Cadiz. We then went visiting some less actives with the Branch President. According to records, there was a referral sent by herself stating that she is a member, but was saved in the potential section. Finally was able to visit her, invite her to the night was with another less active named Roger Puckett. He lived out in the boonies a good 7 miles from the apartment, but as we were driving, the branch President states "this is the reason why school is cancelled tomorrow, the buses cannot drive on the snow out here". The snow was bad enough that it took us nearly 30 minutes to go 3 miles of driving, no plows have touched it yet due to being out in boonies. We get there, luckily he was there, but stated "I'm currently an active Baptist and don't desire to return", all that driving and entertainment for someone that doesn't want us to return. May sound depressing, but according to Preach my Gospel, it is effective and efficient.
Went tracting and contacted a few youth when the mother of one of them comes out and yells "you know you ain't supposed to be talking to strangers, get inside now", that awkward moment as a missionary when parents get within conversation and ends it abruptly. If I followed that advise of no talking to strangers, I WOULD NOT BE A MISSIONARY, that's what we do, but the mothers words have more authority that that of a young missionary.
Transfer calls have come in: WERE BOTH STAYING IN CADIZ!!!!!!! There are lots of changes going on within that area though. E Cottam (who knows the Barlow twins) is being transferred out to Nashville, Hopkinsville Spanish is being whitewashed and one of them coming in is Hermana Hendrickson, whom was in district when I was in Gallatin, and whom is going home at the same time as me. This transfer will be fun. Realized that I have two more to go, hope I will end the mission here in Cadiz.
Had another baptism within the branch on Sunday. Today was the baptism of Chris Wheaton, whom we started to visit with right before we were transferred out of Princeton. With this baptism, I realized that is the 4th one within the last 12 weeks within the Princeton Branch, this area is exploding with recent coverts.
Photos are of me about to have a snowball fight, as well as something you will only see in Kentucky, them folks supporting the UK Wildcats in any way possible
--
Elder Terre Kieffer Short
Tennessee Nashville Mission
Greatest Mission on Earth!!!
February 3, 2014
Sorry this one is going to be out of order but for some weird reason it is not posting them correctly so this one will be out of order but the rest will be fine.
So after sending the email I realized I messed up. I'M CURRENTLY IN FAIRVIEW TENNESSEE. As well as in a trio, first one for me. I'm still with Lofthouse (due to opening Cadiz... supposed to) and with E Walsh (exchange with while in Gallatin). Fairview is different. I'm soo trunkie, not for going home, but for going back to Kentucky. The people and the general attitude of the people are more receptive there, so me in Tennessee for a "temporary time" when I should be in Kentucky... lets say I want to go back to Kentucky badly.
At the transfer meeting, a miracle occurred. Little to my knowledge within the mission are a few missionaries serving from cities withing the TNM boundaries that are unable to serve full-time due to health reasons, well, one of them was deemed able to serve full-time and opened his call in front of ALL MISSIONARIES present at the transfer meeting, he's going to the SALT LAKE EAST mission. Didn't really know him in any of the areas, but sill proof that the work is being hastened.
Receiving news of Ann Johnson's passing was a little difficult for me. Hearing word of Uncle Alan passing as well as Uncle Ernie was difficult, but this one was by far harder. I was looking forward to expressing my gratitude for the sacrifice that was made for my behalf. Now I will have to wait till on the other side... ugh...
So Fairview is very knowledgeable in regards to the missionary who got injured by a vehicle. The entire town knows of it. To update y'all, the missionary got injured by a car which hit another vehickle which hit the missionary to the ground. The fall on the ground is what did the damage in which some ligaments within the leg were damaged enough that reconstructive surgery has to be done, hence he is now home. So many people have inquired his status, we have no idea.
Attended a regional broadcast hosted by Elders Perry, Rasband, and Kopishke. It was originated from Memphis and was and enjoyable meeting... for what we saw. When it started, lets say the satellite transmission was picking up and attorney seminar from BYU Idaho, not what we needed to watch... oh well.
Fairview Branch reminds me of Sparta but with more kids. so reminded me of home a little bit. The little kids running around and crying, little home-sick, just a little. Had dinner with the Franklin Stake Presidents family, ate the southern classic breakfast meal for dinner: biscuits and gravy.
Now for the funny story. Walking around Sunday in the drizzling rain, and a random guy offers a ride to destination due to the rain. Forward to after dinner and we are walking to another location and the same guy passes and offers a ride AGAIN in the rain. Were trying to visit someone who was watching the Super Bowl, lets say he wasn't in the best of moods due to Denver loosing, so we call the same guy for a return ride and he accepts. Got a ride from same random guy 3 times. Miracle occur and will always.
Who knows when I will return to Kentucky. Talking with Assistants, it sounds as if it may be a while, but I will keep y'all informed.
Till next time
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Elder Terre Kieffer Short
Tennessee Nashville Mission
Greatest Mission on Earth!!!
So after sending the email I realized I messed up. I'M CURRENTLY IN FAIRVIEW TENNESSEE. As well as in a trio, first one for me. I'm still with Lofthouse (due to opening Cadiz... supposed to) and with E Walsh (exchange with while in Gallatin). Fairview is different. I'm soo trunkie, not for going home, but for going back to Kentucky. The people and the general attitude of the people are more receptive there, so me in Tennessee for a "temporary time" when I should be in Kentucky... lets say I want to go back to Kentucky badly.
At the transfer meeting, a miracle occurred. Little to my knowledge within the mission are a few missionaries serving from cities withing the TNM boundaries that are unable to serve full-time due to health reasons, well, one of them was deemed able to serve full-time and opened his call in front of ALL MISSIONARIES present at the transfer meeting, he's going to the SALT LAKE EAST mission. Didn't really know him in any of the areas, but sill proof that the work is being hastened.
Receiving news of Ann Johnson's passing was a little difficult for me. Hearing word of Uncle Alan passing as well as Uncle Ernie was difficult, but this one was by far harder. I was looking forward to expressing my gratitude for the sacrifice that was made for my behalf. Now I will have to wait till on the other side... ugh...
So Fairview is very knowledgeable in regards to the missionary who got injured by a vehicle. The entire town knows of it. To update y'all, the missionary got injured by a car which hit another vehickle which hit the missionary to the ground. The fall on the ground is what did the damage in which some ligaments within the leg were damaged enough that reconstructive surgery has to be done, hence he is now home. So many people have inquired his status, we have no idea.
Attended a regional broadcast hosted by Elders Perry, Rasband, and Kopishke. It was originated from Memphis and was and enjoyable meeting... for what we saw. When it started, lets say the satellite transmission was picking up and attorney seminar from BYU Idaho, not what we needed to watch... oh well.
Fairview Branch reminds me of Sparta but with more kids. so reminded me of home a little bit. The little kids running around and crying, little home-sick, just a little. Had dinner with the Franklin Stake Presidents family, ate the southern classic breakfast meal for dinner: biscuits and gravy.
Now for the funny story. Walking around Sunday in the drizzling rain, and a random guy offers a ride to destination due to the rain. Forward to after dinner and we are walking to another location and the same guy passes and offers a ride AGAIN in the rain. Were trying to visit someone who was watching the Super Bowl, lets say he wasn't in the best of moods due to Denver loosing, so we call the same guy for a return ride and he accepts. Got a ride from same random guy 3 times. Miracle occur and will always.
Who knows when I will return to Kentucky. Talking with Assistants, it sounds as if it may be a while, but I will keep y'all informed.
Till next time
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Elder Terre Kieffer Short
Tennessee Nashville Mission
Greatest Mission on Earth!!!
Apr 12, 2014
February 24, 2014
Few updates this week. Had or District Meeting in Hoptown again, oh felt at home instantly. Had lunch by ourselves (not with district due to miss communication...oh well, saw a less active, its well) and due to location of business, i realized I'm DOWN THE STREET FROM THE CARROLS. So we do a brief visit as what we did with the Browns on New Years. Man, i'm happy to know them as they are to know me. He recently became temple endowed and is one of the strongest members I've ever met. Shes relapsed in the smoking, and little to my knowledge that his mother who is still living at home recently was baptized 3 months ago. She wasn't even a focus. From one referral, nearly 6 people were baptized. That's the highlight of the mission...for now.
After the reunion, we went to the branch Valentines Day Dinner, first one went to. Was on exchanges during one in Russellville, so i missed it, not this time.
Decided to recontact the house with the "big white fluffy dog" that bit E Lofthouse on the hand a while back. Dog was still there, but they reinforced the dog chain and the tree wire so it wont break again...i hope...
That somewhat intense storm line that went through clipped us in here in Kentucky. However, there were Tornado Warnings issued in Gallatin and east of Fairview, so it missed us, but only just. Due to the threat of tornado's, we were ordered inside 30 minutes early.
Saturday was a very intense, effective, and legit day for us. Contacted multiple less actives and others and informed them of the FHE starting up soon, which most of them sounded very interested in attending. Had dinner with Parkers (whom were baptized in Hoptown and moved before i started mission) then visited with a LA with a non-member distant family member living with her. Did church intros and answered questions. Due to her being raised in "Jews for Jesus" church in Pennsylvania. shes realizing the faults shes been raised up in. Who knows if its a seed planted, but if it is, its a success in my book
Marion had a baptism. So 2 more added to rolls of Princeton Branch. Visited with someone heading back home with a very long beard, just as a good 30% of Kentuckians have. During lesson we noticed the tarantula in the cage. He invited us to hold it stating facts of "females don't bite and are smaller and less aggressive than males", surprisingly i thought i had Arachnophobia, but i don't...phew...maybe its due to the original geocache i found ;)
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Starting up the FHE in Cadiz tomorrow, interviews and iPad's on Wednesday. Things are getting good here in Kentucky and am looking forward to the future
Elder Terre Kieffer Short
Tennessee Nashville Mission
Greatest Mission on Earth!!!
February 18, 2014
To sum up this last week in a few words: I'M FINALLY IN CADIZ!!!
Received a phone call after emailing last week that were heading to Cadiz after the District Temple Session. Needless to say, the logistics were a little confusing, but we spent Wednesday through Friday night with the Marion missionaries (northern 1/3 of Princeton branch) only to travel to Cadiz on Saturday to get the apartment key in hand. Its been an interesting week, but a joyous one to say the least.
The temple as a missionary is one of them things that just puts my soul at ease. It also gave me the moment to reflect on my personal life and walk with Christ. I see where i need to improve and change through this experience. This session has been the most effective one I've ever done.
Cadiz is now officially open with a permanent set!!! Now to let the work commence. Were about to begin an FHE which hopefully will rekindle the less actives in area (due to being 50+ miles closer) and hopefully within 2 years will break off from the Princeton branch and form its own branch. Things are about to get good here in Kentucky and cant wait for the ball to speed down that hill.
Sorry, no pictures due to being too busy.
Till next time
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Elder Terre Kieffer Short
Tennessee Nashville Mission
Greatest Mission on Earth!!!
February 14, 2014
Received a card and letter for valentines day from Terre card says
"I love you..." open it up and its a picture of snoopy with his arms opening up saying "This much!!! Happy Valentines Day!"
*Hugs shown are smaller than actual size*
letter included says
This card has a lot of truth behind it in multiple ways first the love I give to you; second, the love you give to me; and third, the love Christ has for me/us.
Lately in my studies I've learned that we are chastened to suffer to become more obedient (D&C 105:6) these last 20 months have been filled with chastening and suffering times. Through them, I have been learning which is the whole purpose of life to gain experience.
I'm waiting eagerly to open Cadiz. I know it won't be easy and many challenges to come, but I know they will chasten me to influence me to become the destined missionary and person I am supposed to become.
Thank you for the prays on my behalf
Sincerely,
Elder Terre Short
"I love you..." open it up and its a picture of snoopy with his arms opening up saying "This much!!! Happy Valentines Day!"
*Hugs shown are smaller than actual size*
letter included says
This card has a lot of truth behind it in multiple ways first the love I give to you; second, the love you give to me; and third, the love Christ has for me/us.
Lately in my studies I've learned that we are chastened to suffer to become more obedient (D&C 105:6) these last 20 months have been filled with chastening and suffering times. Through them, I have been learning which is the whole purpose of life to gain experience.
I'm waiting eagerly to open Cadiz. I know it won't be easy and many challenges to come, but I know they will chasten me to influence me to become the destined missionary and person I am supposed to become.
Thank you for the prays on my behalf
Sincerely,
Elder Terre Short
February 10, 2014
So the previous missionary set according to the area book has a reputation of dropping everyone they taught due to uncertain reasons. That is our focus currently: recontacting everyone to determine are they indeed dropped or are they teachable.
Decided to offer service at a local government operated food bank, the dilemma about it is it was 3 miles away. Have no fear, due to experience in field, i know how to avoid the possibility of getting run over. Apparently, the business runner was a member nearly 30 years ago, but she didn't go into specifics of why she isnt anymore. We got "missionary inspected" by her where she pretty much asked "have planner, pen, name badge and pass-a-long cards?" Got a 3/4, didn't have pass-a-longs.
Next we decide to hit up a referral of someone whom the previous set was teaching (according to notes on referral) but according to area book, nothings listed. Walking IN THE RAIN for nearly 3 miles, we arrive. Never really done that before. As missionaries, there are some "future rumors" of what could occur if you do certain things: Drop ONE Book of Mormon, future spouse gains 10 POUNDS; WALK IN THE RAIN, looses 10. The terminology is "hot wife points", yeah i received a lot that day.
Had a zone meeting in Columbia. (same building went to while serving in Spring Hill) First thing we noticed is the zone leaders with iPads!!! However, they simply say "questions will be answered and will receive them at interviews within next 3 weeks", the awkward feeling bout it though is they use it in front of us and totally brag about it. If it were me, id NOT use it till everyone else has one.
Talked with Sister Versillo who previously served in Russellville inquiring of any updates of the area, so much good has happened since i left. Most of the Kennedys now are active and/or being taught and the branch has gained nearly 10 more members. I'm happy due to that news.
Nearly didn't make it back to Fairview from zone meeting. The fuel light went on 5 miles outside of Columbia. There is barely a downtown city within Columbia and Fairview. Found a gas station with about 1 gallon in the tank to spare...close call
Yes, i am aware of the Sochi Olympics. Somewhat depressed in missing both London and Sochi while serving, but its ok, ill see the highlights when home.
Sunday was great. Unfortunately no investigators showed (2 said would), had lunch with Griffins. Was previous Branch President but got called as Patriarch 2 weeks ago (due to old Patriarch in Temple Presidency; yes that means Branch President is 2 weeks into term) had lunch then got more introduced to the area to people whom past sets were teaching. If every church member were like unto the Griffins, missionary work would be a lot more effective and efficient.
Ended night with dinner at George's residence with 5 kids under 8 with one newborn. Had funny conversations, but effective due to them being the main driving force in the missionary effort for the area if not for the stake.
Walking around Sunday night due to it being only 7:30pm. Randomly decide to see drive-through car wash to see whats acceptable due to us needing to wash car soon. We happen to find a high school teenager vacuuming her truck. Invited her to hear message and accepted. The Lord works in mysterious ways. For example: leading missionaries to a car wash on Sunday to find someone to potentially teach.
One of the office missionary couples were at our branch services. Inquired bout whole Cadiz situation with no apartment and vehicle. Apartment will be open as of FEB 15, but now the situation is to re-shuffle the vehicles and companionship so someone can be here in Fairview while were up in Cadiz. Within 2 weeks we may be in Kentucky
Till next time
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Elder Terre Kieffer Short
Tennessee Nashville Mission
Greatest Mission on Earth!!!
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