Wednesday, September 14, 2011

LAST LETTER HOME

No Date
Dear Family,
Well, I'm guessing that this will be the last letter I write home on my mission. It seems a little pointless to send a letter that will probably arrive about the same day as I do.
Let's see, what's new? Well, we did the incline again but this time we decided to carry our bikes up it! We got some crazy looks! This one guy told us that he's been hiking the incline for a few years and he's never seen anyone try to carry their bikes up. It was a lot of work...but not as bad as the first time I did it. I was so sore the first time.
After we did the incline we went to Red Rock where there's a ton of bike trails. We rode around there and then found a trail with jumps on it! It was way cool. We're going to go back today and ride it some more. The Elders from Woodland Park are going to come with us. Should be lots of fun.
I found an Elder in Pueblo West that wants my bike so I think I'll sell it to him. I don't really want to pay to ship it home. Besides, I have my road bike that I can fix up.
So, right now we have two people with a date for baptism. They are a young couple. I think I told you about them in my e-mail.
We have a few lessons scheduled for today so we hope we'll have more people with a date tonight.
I just got your letter yesterday mom. It's always fun to get your letters.
It sounds like you and grandma had a fun time together. I look forward to having time with all of you again!
I will be interested to see the changes you see in me because although I can see some change I don't think I've noticed every change. I still feel like me! Still like to have fun...and can't wait to listen to real music and play my guitar!
Well, I need to get this letter off to you (before I forget to send it).
I love you all! Can't wait to see you...even though, I must admit, I'm a little nervous to come home. Now that it's so close it's kind of scary! But I do look forward to seeing all of you.
Take care
Love Elder Cryer
P.S. Thought you might like to know that I'm doing two baptismal interviews for the district today! I'm excited! I did an interview for someone the Zone Leaders were teaching. I did that a few days ago.

Monday, September 12, 2011

LAST E-MAIL HOME

12 September 2011 email
Hey!
Ok...so I cant believe that this is my last email home as a missionary! I know its true...but I still cant wrap my mind around it. It does not feel like its been two years. lol I was telling Elder Berghoff yesterday that it feels like I should have forgotten so much more over the past two years. I still remember so many people....faces, names, where they live....I remember streets, our home phone, dads cell, moms cell, my cell...and I could go on but I don't want to bore you. I am so excited to see you all on Friday. I'm kinda nervous too though! Its going to feel so different. I am so used to being a missionary.
Its all good....if you forget to pick me up I remember the way home. haha Maybe if I just stand around at the airport then another pilot will offer me a flight around Eugene. :) Remember when that happened to me while I was out there looking at planes? That was so cool! But...I don't want to be late for that pizza! haha So I will be sure to be on time. :)
Well, it sounds like you had a great stake conference. I'm sure glad I wasn't there to speak though! Although we do a TON of talking on the mission I still can't say that I'm fond of giving talks. I don't really have much of a choice though.
Sounds good.....I'll be praying for Sam and Emma to have a safe and enjoyable flight. :) Well, as enjoyable as a roughly 13 hour flight can be. :) My flight will be much shorter. :) I'm kinda excited to fly again.
Well, the work is doing well. We were hoping to have that young couple at church yesterday but we could never get a hold of them. We did have that less active lady there though. We sat with her....she actually even asked us to....because she's kind of timid. We ended up going to relief society with her too. haha We got some looks from some of the ladies in there. I guess they're not used to seeing men in there for some reason. lol
There was also a guy in sacrament meeting that we had never seen before. We went and introduced ourselves to him. He was investigating the church back in the 70's in Hawaii....and he said it was 'time to come back'. :) He wont let us come over to his house though because his wife is a die hard Baptist but he said he'll be coming to church again....so I guess he'll have to be taught at church.
So last night I ate Hawaiian meatballs! I remember when Emma made those all the time! I hadn't had them since the last time she had made them...until last night. It was good.
Well, just a couple more days of work left. Its actually kind of sad. We have a few lessons scheduled for the next couple of days...so I'm looking forward to that. I'm going to miss being a part of so many lives...so many different lives. I know I can still do a lot after I come home....but it's never going to be quite the same. Its been amazing being a missionary.....an opportunity that I'm so glad that I took. :)
I hope you have a great next few days! And I will see you on Friday! (I cant believe I'm actually saying that...this is so weird!)
Love you all!
Love Elder Cryer

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

SEE YOU IN 10 DAYS

September 6, 2011 e-mail
Hey Mom and Dad! (and Sam and Emma)
Wow....we had a way fun but busy P-day today....and I just have a few minutes before this computer kicks me off. I'll have to save some stories for my letter....and some for when I get home.
Today we went and did some jumps out at a bike park called Red Rock. It was way fun. We even got some video. Then we rode our bikes five miles up into the mountains because someone told us about a sweet bike trail. It was way tiring getting up the mountain because it was about an hour and a half ride up. We finally found the trail and headed off. That thing killed us! I feel so broken right now! My head hurts, my hands hurt, my shuirchest hurts, my knees are killin me! haha yeah.....it was a crazy trail. We were jumping over holes, jumping over boulders, and a few other things that I'll wait to tell you about until I get home. haha ;) Don't want you too worried. lol But it was a ton of fun! It was so pretty too! It took us down into the forest and then out into this huge canyon. It's so pretty here in Springs...I love it! Definitely a lot to do here. It was so nice to get out and have an adventure though.
Sweet....well the topic that bishop wants me to speak on should be fairly easy to put together. ;) I will start on it right now so when I get home I won't have it weighing on my mind.
People have been asking about me? For real? You mean they actually remember me!?!?! haha Well I can't wait to tell them all 'hi!'. It really has gone fast now that I'm looking back. I am going to miss it. Coming home will be bitter sweet. I am way excited but nervous a little and just sad for some of these experiences to end. I know a lot of the stuff I do and have learned can be carried over into my everyday life though. :)
Happy Labor Day to you too! There is not much to tell about our Labor Day... lol .....just missionary work. lol Which is why I'm emailing today of course.....P-day got switched due to the holiday.
You got to Skype all the way to England huh!?!?! I bet that was neat! I bet you loved seeing the girls...and I bet they loved seeing you! ;)
Well, at the moment we have two people with a baptismal date. Its kinda sad because I wont be here for it....but I'm still way happy for them. They are a young couple with one kid. They just recently moved to Springs and have never really been religious. We went to their house a few days ago with the sisters and taught them all about baptism and the blessing that will come as they follow the commandments of God. They really seemed to enjoy what they learned. We should be meeting with them tomorrow.
We are also working with a less active person. They have not been to church in years and so wanted to take the missionary lessons again. We are helping them gain a testimony of the Book of Mormon, the church, God, all the basics. Its neat to be able to help people gain a testimony of the gospel because it in turn always builds your own testimony. Its pretty neat.
Well.....I'm thinking about shipping some boxes home just so that I don't have to pay extra on my luggage. lol....So if you get any boxes there is no need to open them. I mean, you can if you want to....but it'll just be a bunch of random stuff. haha I think I'll end up leaving a bunch behind too though. We will see.....I actually haven't really thought about it too much...I should probably start to figure that stuff out.
Anyways, I love you all and can't believe that I'm just 10 days away from seeing you! Literally.....I can't believe it!
Take care, I love you a ton!
Love Elder Cryer

P.S. Oh by the way.....I think this might happen anyways because I fly home on a Friday but would it be possible to have home made pizza the night I get home? I have been craving that delicious stuff for two years now! But...I know things will be hectic probably and I know pizza is time consuming. So if that's not possible please don't worry about it! All I really care about is seeing you all and talking and enjoying being together again. Pizza can wait if it needs to. lol ;)

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

A DISAPPOINTMENT

August 29, 2011 e-mail
Hey!
Well I have to say that I'm very jealous of that new program you have! I would much rather just talk about what's going on than to have to type it out! I HATE typing! haha But...I guess just a couple more weeks of that and then I can just talk. :)
So funny story about the earthquake.....It hit at about 11:45 ish here in the springs. It woke Elder Berghoff up and he called my name to wake me up...he was like: "Elder Cryer, do you feel that?"...I was still half dead and I couldn't feel a thing! I thought he was going crazy! So....I can say that Ive been IN an earthquake....but still can't say I've felt one. :/ haha I guess the earthquake came out of Trinidad...at least that's what we've heard.
People have also been telling us about all the stuff going on in the eastern part of the USA as well.....some crazy things goinG on..that's for sure.
Uh Oh....I'm gonna have to stand in front of a council huh? :/ haha jk jk Yeah that'll be fine. Ive got lots to tell. :)
So...I got a letter off to you last week....I hope that you have received it. If not...you should be getting it VERY soon! :)
I have so much to tell you about...but I wont have enough time to write about it all in my email....I'll try to get another letter off to you soon.....but I'm sure I'll have stories to tell when I get home too. ;)
Me and Elder Berghoff have been having a blast together. We tried putting on this "tree of life" activity for our investigators and less active members. We had invited a bunch of people and set up rides and got members bringing dessert and everything. Well we spent 5 and a half hours setting up at the church....a half an hour before it was due to start the dessert arrived....then.....no one else did! :( It was was disapPointing and we felt so bad for the members that had brought dessert. We tried calling everyone that we could but no one answered. It was a real bummer but the members handled it really well and now they just joke about it. They still love the idea and so we're going to try to do it again in a couple of months. Well....someone will try it again. lol
Well....I have to go....this things yelling at me that its about to shut off.
Love you!
Have a great week!

WHAT'S HAPPENING IN THE MISSION

August 18, 2011 Letter

Dear Family,
Well, yesterday we had a Zone Conference. It was very different! It just had a totally different feel to it. I did get a prize for having a 'celestial' apartment. I guess our apartment is really clean.
Really the whole Zone Conference was based on the new 12 week training program, our new stat system, and our purpose. One thing that came to me while they were talking was that we are not directing others to Christ...we are inviting them. We have to be with Christ first ourselves. If we aren't then were merely pointing. It was interesting.
President Anderson is really focused on getting things to happen, which is awesome. He talked about activities versus accomplishments. We used to report hours of tracting, ITL's and part members and less actives we visited. We don't report those anymore. All we report is people baptized and confirmed, people with a date, people at church, lessons with a member, overall total lessons and new investigators. He doesn't really care how we find people...we just need to find them...without breaking rules of course.
I don't even know if all that interests you but I figured I'd let you know what's going on in the mission.
We are working really hard on getting people to come to church. There is one lady that is so ready for baptism...she just needs to come to church.
Well, I have been enjoying the e-mails from England (as I'm sure you have too). It sounds like Sam and Emma are having a great time. I'll be excited to go over there again.
August 22.....
So, I totally thought I had sent this letter. I'm really sorry about that.
Things have been going well. I realized a little bit ago that my temple recommend expired in July. Whoops! So I go an interview by President Anderson. All good again.
Well, me and Elder Berghoff are getting along really well. It's nice to be able to end my mission with a companion that I get along with. Our district is doing well. We went out for a district lunch yesterday and had a great time together. I think they (or we) all needed that. It helps when you're unified as a district. I've been feeling a lot of stress in the district lately. That's starting to go away now. Me and Elder Berghoff are planning an activity for this Saturday. Like a hands on tree of life lesson for less actives, and recent converts, and potentials. It's taken a couple of weeks to put together but we're really hoping it goes well and encourages people to come to church, get baptized and get aimed towards the temple. I really hope it's a meaningful activity.
Yesterday for part of p-day we went down to Manitue Springs and walked around. There are some crazy hippie places down there! Then we ate a burger place. It was way good food.
I wanted to say thanks again for the DQ card. I love ice-cram cake so that was a really nice treat.
Did I ever say thanks for those "Every Flavor Beans"? I'm not really sure if thanks is the right word though because some of those were gross! Like the rotten egg. It was so disgusting! Me and Elder Hakes too turns spinning the spinner and eating the flavor it landed on.
We went to Sally DeFords again and she showed us more of her studio. She even gave us a couple of albums she's helped with in one way or another.
So we picked D and S back up. D wants to quit smoking and we told him about the 12 step program which really caught his attention. He said he'll for sure be at church on Sunday. I hope he means it.
So yesterday we got this text message referral from BYU. It was followed by a message from Sister Sparrow (who is in charge of referrals). She said, "Um, I'm kind of worried about the referral that I just sent you. The phone number is 666-666-6666. I'm really worried about it."
So we have to call the office before we go see them to see if it's real or not. The message on the text was weird. It said, "Please share your religion with me at my home! I would love to convert!" Very strange....but me and Elder Berghoff were laughing about it so much!
That's one thing that me and Elder Berghoff do a lot of....laughing. It makes life a lot more fun.
Well, I'm going to be sure to send this today.
I love you!
Love Elder Cryer
P.S. I just got a letter from gma and gpa. It was one of Emma's postcards. It was postmarked August 20. It said they'd sent a couple other letters but I haven't received any others. Just wanted you to know.
Take Care

Monday, August 22, 2011

PUMPING UP THE DISTRICT

August 22, 2011 e-mail
Hey everyone!
O.K....so a couple of things to start off.....first of all.....it has
taken me half an hour to start this email.....this computer is SO
SLOW!!!! and the mouse hardly works at all.
Second....I'm so sorry that you didn't get a letter last week. I wrote
one....I just never mailed it. :/ I hate when I do that. So, I
apologize for that. I will make sure to send it. :)
Oh...before I forget....yeah that will be totally fine for Gma and Gpa to
stay with us when I get back. I haven't had my own room for two
years...whats another few days. ;) lol Besides..I'd rather see them
than have my own room right away. That would be awesome if Aunt Jackie
was there too. I'd love to see everyone! Ive missed you all! ;)
Well...no worries in getting me a letter last week....Its pay back for
me not sending one. But thanks for my belated birthday e-mail! :) I
had a good birthday....basically just a normal day...but still good. I
got to sleep in a little! lol Not on purpose...I swear that the alarm
was set.... but it never went off. So when we woke up we had to
scramble a little bit to get showered and ready and off to district
meeting on time. (Not my fault I swear!) haha....But after
district meeting we went to DQ and got lunch and I bought my cake. :)
I did get the card just a couple days before my B-day....So I haven't
had a chance to write a thank-you for it.....but I guess I can tell you
here! :) Thank You!!! That was a nice treat...I love ice cream cake. I
got one that was divided into four sections....M&M, cookie dough,
Oreo, and cheesecake. Its good. I still have some in the freezer. :)
Then the rest of the day went as most other days go.
I like the pics that you sent.....I think you sent a couple of those
yard pics last week...but there were some new ones too. That spider is
HUGE! I'm beginning to wonder if you all moved to Brazil and you just
haven't told me yet! haha (Boy would that be a shock!)
That is an neat experience that you had...with your back. The
atonement really is an amazing thing. It has been really neat seeing
it work not only in my own life but in the lives of others.
Man, Jordan gave his farewell talk!?!?!? That is so crazy! Now Carson,
Jay, and Jordan will be gone when I get back. They are going to do
great though...and have a great time! He spoke on three of the most
important things as a missionary....Obedience, sacrifice, and love.
That there is the key to success!
Well...everything is just fine with me...no worries...I'm just not a
writer. lol I answer questions better than I do just telling
everything that's going on...but I am doing well. Trying to get
the district pumped up...and excited. There are a couple of
missionaries that seem to be struggling a little...but they just got
someone with a date...and they came to church,,,so that is exciting.
We have a couple people that we had stopped visiting for a while but
have recently picked back up...They seem to be showing more
commitment now...we'll see. They NEED to come to church!
This week has been rough just because everyone we had with a date
didn't come to church.....there is some infection that a few of them
got. It was disappointing.
Anyways....I hope you all continue to do well back in Oregon! How are
Sam and Emma doing? They having a blast? ;)
Well I love you all! Thanks again for the DQ card. Tell everyone I say hi!
Love Elder Cryer

Monday, August 15, 2011

THEY SAID IT COULDN'T BE DONE

August 14, 2011 e-mail
Hey folks!
Man, the yard is sure looking nice! Looks like a park! We just need
some park benches through there. It looks like you have been really
busy out there...it has definitely payed off. Thanks for the pics.
Jackson sure looks a bit different. I bet he feels better though.
Well I had no idea how important my letters were to sustaining life!
;) haha I try to keep up with it all. I try not to go a week without
an email and letter. Hopefully I've done a decent enough job.
Wow, it looks like Jerrys had quite the event! Must have kept all
the people there really busy! It feels like just yesterday I was there
working. That was a great place to work! Good people. I hope I'm
able to get back on with them.
Well this last week was spent going by potentials, formers, and part
member families. We got two people with a date but neither one came to
church so they lost their date. It was sad. We went by and we were
able to contact one. She didn't come because she was really sick. We
committed her for next week and she said yes....we made sure she was
serious. lol I really would like for her to get baptized before I go
home.....because I know that she will eventually. She loves the gospel
and the Book of Mormon and stuff.
We went mountain bike ITLing the other day! lol We rode our mountain
bikes up a big ridge that everyone told us that we couldn't make it to
the top of. Well when we reached the top we found a couple up there.
They said they were just up there relaxing and praying. So we sat and
talked to them about the gospel for about 30 minutes. It was awesome.
They didn't really accept but they were very nice and at least they
have something to pray about.....we did commit them to pray about if
there was a prophet on the earth today. They said they would. Well,
after talking with them we headed back down.....well there are tons of
trails that break off and so long story short...we got lost! haha Soon
we found ourselves on no trail at all...then we came to a cliff! lol
We found a way to get down the cliff. It took a bit but finally we
made it. After a while it started to get dark.....we saw the lights on
what we thought were our apartments about two miles away over another
ridge. So we headed over that way....we got over there after a bit but
discovered it was not our apartments. It had a "no trespassing" sign.
Well....we decided to go for it anyway....so we were riding around all
these dumpsters and semi trucks and stuff....finally we made it out to
a main road and found our way to the apartments. We were dripping
sweat! lol It was so much fun. A nice adventure.
Well,,,,I better get running.
I love you all! Take care!
Love Elder Cryer

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

DON'T PROPOSE TO THE ELDER!

August 8, 2011 e-mail
Hey there!
Well....I just checked my last transfer email! I am staying here in Mountain Shadows and Academy but I am getting a new companion. I don't know who he is....yet. His name is Elder Berghoff. It should be fun. He will be "killing me off" as we say here in the mission. Its a weird feeling being this close to the end. It feels so close.....but at the same time it doesn't feel like I'm anywhere near being done! I'm sure I still have a couple weeks before it starts to set in and hit me.
We have been receiving some pretty promising referrals...now we just have to meet with them. Hopefully this week will be filled with that.
We are completely moved into our new apartment now.....everything has a place...finally! It's not a bad place. The entrance and exit to the parking lot is poorly designed though! It's an adventure every time! I think I should save details until I get home! Colorado drivers are crazy! So Ive learned to be aggressive. lol My companions knuckles only turn white every once in a while! ;) No, its really not that bad...but still.
Well, it sounds like you had a fun time at the coast! Either it was really pretty that day.....or I haven't seen the coast in so long that it looks even better than before! You got some nice pics. :) (And I like the new haircut mom....it looks nice on you! ....good choice.) ;)
So...yesterday we had dinner with the Hernandez family in the Academy ward. They have four kids....two boys, and two girls...(haha..they're actually here right now....Liberty just came and said hi. lol you'll understand in a second...)....so, the two girls are nine and like six. Well Liberty, the nine year old, went over to her mom last night and whispered in her ear. Then her mom said "really!....Hmm...Elder Cryer, Liberty thinks you're cute." Well then Liberty got way embarrassed and ran away. A while later she came back and was just standing by where I was sitting. Her mom looked at her and said, "Don't propose to the Elder." It was way funny. Then to make matters worse...the six year old came over and started leaning in like she wanted a kiss! haha Yeah...um....no....! haha So I just kept leaning back so she couldn't reach me. Then she turned around and sat in my lap! I was like, um.....technically this is kinda not allowed but the parents are perfectly aware of what she just did and they aren't doing anything about it! So I guess it's...O.K.? lol She sat there for like five minutes and then got up and went away to play. I was very popular last night with the ladies I guess! It must have been the tie I was wearing! ;)
So...how was the Mennonite bakery? I hear those are supposed to be really good! There was one in Ulysses but it was closed every time we tried to go. :(
Well...I'm about to get kicked off of the computer.
I did print off the girls email...so I will reply to that after I have read it! I'm going to forward this one to them though......so..
Hey Sam and Emma! How is England treating you? I enjoyed reading your last email.....Is it nice and wet over there? lol I bet you two are having way too much fun!
Well, I love you all! have a great week and have fun!
Love Elder Cryer

P.S. oh...we had some crazy guys come to church the last two weeks! lol This last week we had a guy who kept talking about space and energy and the keys of Enoch. From what he says he has a team of guys coming in from LA to film a movie about the keys of Enoch. He was definitely a different fella! lol

TRACTING IN THE RAIN

August 2, 2011 letter
Dear Family,
Well, I promised that I'd write...so here I am.
So, transfers is next week...but I'm pretty sure I'll be staying right here. I'll let you know if that changes.
So, like I said, S. did not get baptized. He doesn't want to act. He still wants to attend church though which is cool.
So, yesterday we went and helped a less-active family move some stuff around. We found out we have some stuff in common. I found out that he likes to scuba dive! He had a bunch of gear, so we looked through it. He said if I ever want to go dive to call him up. He also works on computers. He found out that I film and record music. He said to call when I get home and he'll hook me up with a nice computer for a really good price. He said he gets some amazing deals. Last but not least, he used to play guitar and had three pedals that he never uses now because he stopped playing. So he gave me the foot pedals! It was pretty sweet.
We called some former investigators here recently and a few of them said that they'd like to meet with us again. So we have some appointments set up. I'm excited about that.
We've been doing some tracting in the rain lately. Every afternoon almost we get a rainstorm come through...usually with lightning and thunder. We've gotten into a few doors because of it but so far nothing has come of it.
So how are you adjusting to things mom? Is your calendar full of things to do? I bet it feels really different having the house to yourself...but it won't be like that in a few weeks.
Won't it be great when we're all back together again?!
Well, I know this letter is short...but it's already sat too long. I need to get it off.
I love you!
Take care,
Elder Cryer

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

MOVING



August 2, 2011 e-mail
Hello to everybody!
Its always good to hear from everybody! I love the emails and letters. Thanks for all of them. :)
Well we are moved into our new place. It was a long process of trips back and forth between our old and new apartment...but its moved over now. Now we're just organizing it and making feel like home. lol We decided to throw away some items and replace them with new just so our place would feel nicer. We got new towels and hot pads for the kitchen, a new garbage can, all that good stuff.
Our new place is nice. I'll have to take some pictures and send to you so you can see it. We have a walk in closet, a balcony, a dishwasher, air conditioning, oh...and the best part...a garbage chute right outside our door. :) We are up on the second floor so that's really nice. We live right across the street from the library which is pretty sweet. I'm pretty sure I'll be here until I 'die'. (As in....come home. lol no worries) Transfers is next week so I'll find out then.
I have been so exhausted lately for some reason! lol Maybe its all the moving and stuff...or maybe just the normal stress of missionary work. Who knows. All I know is I'm going to want to sleep in until like 9 every day when I'm back! lol Ive never been a morning person....I have lots of catch up work to do! haha
So Jackson got shaved. As embarrassing as it might be....I bet it feels so much better! So, if they left some longer hair on his head then I'm sure he looks a lot more lion like! lol
I just now noticed that you sent pictures! Wow....Jackson does look way younger! Dang!!! He looks like a puppy again! lol
Wow...have I told you that whenever I see pictures of home I feel like I'm looking at a photoshopped picture?! lol Everything is SO GREEN and colorful! haha It really almost looks fake to me now. Colorado has lots of green....but its not the same vibrant green. lol
I did get an email from Sam and Emma....well I'm pretty sure Sam wrote it....but same difference! lol Giving me the update on what they've done and where they're going. :)
I plan on just sending this email to them as well so that I don't have to re-type anything! (I know...I'm lazy when it comes to that!)
It sounds like you two are having lots of fun over there. :) I'm glad that the jet lag has worn off. lol No more walking around like zombies.....you can actually enjoy your stay! So, who's in charge of taking pictures? Are there going to be any pictures this time? ;) haha There better be....and then you can't show them until I get back! haha (Wow...that's a weird thought. lol )
What!?!?!? you only dipped your toes in the Atlantic ocean!? No, no, no...that is not acceptable. You have to go all the way in before you come home. ;) lol Besides...colder days are better because then the water doesn't feel as cold because there is less of a temperature difference between the water and the air. (That's just my own personal theory!)
So I cant wait to hear all about London and the adventures you had there! Tell everyone hi for me! I'll make it over there someday! lol Now you've been three times...Emma's been twice, and I'm still sittin at once. :( But.....at least now I can say Ive been to Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico!
It is crazy that I'll be seeing you so soon! It weird to be so close to the end. You just get so used to the missionary lifestyle being your life that it's a weird thought that its going to end. It's a nervous time and an exciting time. But I still have seven weeks to go. Still work to be done!
Well, the man we had who was going to get baptized last Sunday was not baptized. We tried so hard to help him understand how it would help him....but in the end its up to him, and he chose no. :( I never like seeing that, but I know that he felt something good. He'll come around eventually I hope.
Well, this week is going to be crazy!!! I'll try to write a letter this evening but it may be short. Ill try my best though!
Oh...did I tell you I did The Incline? It was a good workout...but lots of fun. :)
Well I better go, times up. I love you all! Have a great week!
Love Elder Cryer

WE HIKED THE INCLINE


July 26, 2011 Letter
Dear Family,
So if my handwriting seems messy it's because my whole body is sore and feels like jello! We just got done with some service. We were shoveling and chopping in the heat of the day. I had sweat dripping off of me. Then yesterday we (Elder Hakes, Elder Advient, Elder Howell and I) decided to try The Incline. Whew! That was a good workout! It took me and Elder Howell 1 hour and 10 minutes to reach the top. It's only one mile but it's straight up! We were up at 9,000 feet. It was an awesome view. Then there's a trail called Bar Trail that we ran down. It's 3 miles long. That's why my legs are killing me. The only thing that kept me and Elder Howell running all the way down was our pride! There was another couple behind us running. We couldn't let them beat us! It took us about 15-20 minutes to run down. So my legs and feet are killin! It was totally worth it though.
So I got y our nice long letter mom! It was surprised to see a typewritten letter from you...but I don't blame you at all. I wouldn't have wanted to write all that!
I can't believe that Emma had her first date! That is so crazy. I still remember my first date! It's so amazing how fast time flies.
Sounds like girls camp was really neat. Oh, and no, I don't think I was told Emma designed the shirts. Do you have pics? She's really been getting into that stuff it sounds like. That's really cool.
I got to have dinner with Sally DeFord. She showed us her studio and I asked a bunch of questions and then she let us listen to a new song that won't be released until this Christmas. It was such a pretty song.
So by the time you get this, Sam and Emma will be in England. Are you copying my letters? or what's the plan there? They'll probably be too busy to remember me anyways! Just joking.
I hope your heart isn't hurting anymore. It must be different for you and dad to have the whole house to yourselves...but don't worry, soon we'll ALL be back...and then you'll be wishing we'd leave again! How exciting will that be though! All of us coming home almost together like that. It's scarey how close it is!
So a quick update about Steven. His baptism was moved to July 31st. So far he is on track. We are teaching him today again and then he'll get interviewed today. He is noticing changes in himself. He mentioned it last time we were there. He said he feels happier, he feels better. Everything is going well there...I'll let you know how everything goes.
So how is the new Mission President and wife? I still haven't gotten to speak to or see our new Mission President or his wife since we met them for the first time at interviews. I have a feeling I won't get to know them very well by the time my time is over.
That is so good to hear about Chris Mason! I'm sure she, and the whole family, were way excited about that news! I will continue to keep her in my prayers and pray that three months will show that it (cancer) stayed gone! I'm excited to see that family again!
Well, I should really get this letter in the mail...it's taken too long...again. I'm sorry. We really are busy though. Trying to get Steven ready and also the sisters have given us 11 referrals that we need to follow up on, then on top of that we've been doing a bunch of service! Free time is not something a missionary see's very often...so I take any chance that I can get.
Well, I'm trying to think of new updates to tell you about.
Oh, O.K. So we were going to this apartment complex where a bunch of the sisters referrals live. We were walking in to one of the buildings when we heard a whistle behind us. Now, there are many types of whistles...but we heard the type that suggests, "Hey there, aren't you looking fine tonight!" Yeah, so we didn't turn around because we were thinking that it was just some girls trying to tease us. Well, then we hear the whistle again followed by, "Elder Cryer!" So I turn around only to see the Sisters! They were trying to get our attention to see if we were seeing who they were there to see...which we weren't. It was so funny though. I don't know why they whistled like that.
Well, I really want to send this today. I love you and hope all is well back home.
Love Elder Cryer

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

THE INCLINE

July 25, 2011 e-mail
Hey everyone!
Life is treating me well! We have been busy.
We had an investigator come to church for the second time yesterday which was awesome! He is getting baptized this Sunday! We are really excited. He is awesome.
We have also been busy with service. There is a member here in the Mountain Shadows ward that is such an amazing guy. He's a convert and loves helping people. We help him whenever we can. He is planning on moving to Seattle around the time I come home too. lol Who knows...maybe I'll run into him when I go up there sometime!
Today we are going to go hike the incline with the Woodland Park elders. It is a mile long hike......straight up! (At least that's what I'm told.) I'm taking lots and lots of water! lol It should be fun though...Ive wanted to do the incline since I got to this area.
Dang it...down to five minutes left..... :/
Yes....Elder Perry did come here. It was awesome. He came while you were on your mission!? He must really know what he's doing now! Ive had the opportunity to meet a lot of General Authorities and members of the Seventy. It's been neat.
Well, sorry this is so short. I sent a letter to you a little late last week. I sent it on Friday....so you should get it soon. Ill try to get this one off to you tomorrow! I really will try!
I love you all!
Take care!
Love Elder Cryer

P.S. Don't forget to email me Sam and Emma!!!! Safe travels! HAVE FUN!!!! I'll see you when you get back....just about. How crazy is that!?!?!?!

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

FOR THE RECORD - THE SPIRIT OF GOD IS AMAZING!

July 18, 2011 Letter
Dear Family,
Well, it's another hot day here in Colorado Springs. It's been hot and humid the last few days. I'll take it over the cold though! I like the cold when I don't have to go out in it!
I got your letter Emma! Thanks....it was a nice long one too! It is always fun to hear what's going on. Your birthday bash sounds fun! Sounds like you've developed a good group of friends. And you had an ice-cream cake huh? Those are so good! Maybe I'll buy me one of those for my birthday this year. Or better yet, convince my comp to buy it for me!
So they must have come out with new flavors for the Berty Botts beans because I don't remember 'skunk spray' and 'canned dog food'. Those sound gross!
Well, Elder Hakes and I have had some good laughs lately. I think you really had to be there to really think it was funny though. Like, this one time we went to go see a potential. We knocked on the door and were just standing on the porch waiting. Well, there was a statue of a bear (like one of those chainsaw carved wood bears). Well, it was holding a sign that said, "Bear hugs 5 cents each." Elder Hakes was just staring at it for 30 seconds and then he turned and looked at me and said, "Beware of hugs." I gave him a confused look....looked down at the sign then back at him and said, "Um...it says Bear Hugs." He turned back to look at the sign and then we both started cracking up! We have a lot of completely random funny moments like that. It keeps things fun and alive though. I always try to get my companions to laugh. Missionary work needs humor! It's way to stressful without it.
I think I told you about the single mom and the service we did for her right? That was neat. We also did some service for some non-members who have a son (who is a member) on a mission. Their daughter is getting married so they're prepping their house for the reception. We removed some dirt and moved some lumber and dug post holes, mixed cement, and set the posts. It was fun. Then he fed us some lunch. Hamburgers, hot dogs and salad with some Sobe drinks
While we've been tracting lately people have told us to come back later and they'll talk with us. So hopefully they mean it and we can go teach them soon. We had a neat experience the other day. We went to see a guy we've been teaching. He's been through a lot lately and has really been struggling. We've been going by to visit him but it still seemed he had a lot of concerns. We went by this last time and talked for a bit and then he said, "You know, there's something that you mentioned when you first came over that I've been thinking about a lot. I want to get baptized." It was totally not what I was expecting! It was so neat. So we set a date for the 31st of July. We are all excited for it. So, for the record....the spirit of God is amazing! It has made a change in this man. The last time we went to see him he was so much happier than the first time we met him. God offers happiness to everyone! It's the gospel. It's simple. Yet so many people struggle to find it. They try to find alternatives....but there are none. I love when people accept the gospel. It's a great thing to be a part of.
Then there's the flip side. We recently had an investigator...(well, I think it was the investigators boyfriend) text us and ask us to not come over anymore. It's hard to drop people like that. She was so solid. But we have to respect their decisions. She is in the area book so with time she will be ready again.
Well, I really need to get this off! I feel bad it's gonna be later than usual again. Sorry! We are so busy right now, which is a good thing but it makes it hard to write quickly!
Love you all!
Love Elder Cryer

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

THE POWER OF SERVICE

July 18, 2011 e-mail
Hey Everyone!
So our plum tree just fell over?!?!?!?!?! Dang, that's a bummer. Those were tasty. So now we have no fruit trees in the yard right? Just the apple and pear trees in the garden. I guess it was just too darned heavy. lol Are those apple and pear trees producing fruit yet?
Wait......whats this about a date!? Emma going on her first date! I better hear ALL about this! ;) haha That's exciting. I looked through the pics on the card just now. It looks like Emma's B-day was lots of fun! Got a good group of friends there. lol Man, I still cant believe my sister is 16! LOL
Poor Jackson. That was such a sad story. I feel sorry for the poor guy! lol That had to be a much less than enjoyable experience. lol He'll probably never step foot in there again! I know I wouldn't! haha So I cant blame him. lol
90Lbs huh? I remember everyone would always mention what a big dog he was. lol We saw a golden retriever the other day.....you know those sheep or whatever that are as wide as they are long and tall? Well......this dog fit that category! lol It was one fat dog. Very friendly though.
We have a few families we are working with right now. A single man, a single lady, a young married couple, and a single mom with two kids. We are working really hard with these people. Trying to make daily contact. They are all so awesome and would be great members! We went over to the single moms home (She was a referral) and she told us that she was not really interested right now because she was so busy. She said she had no time for church right now. We asked what we could help her with. She said, "Well, there is one thing I could use help with." She needed a coupler swings hung up for her kids. So we got the swings and went to work. The kids quickly came out and of course loved us immediately because we were putting up their swings that they'd been dying to swing on. We got that job done and then the littlest boy begged us to help him catch a grasshopper. lol So, we assisted him there (It ended up being three that we caught....you know how the "just one more" card works) And then we saw the mom out front doing some raking, and shoveling, and sweeping. We went out front and helped her for about two hours. We ended up having a great conversation with her (and I got two blisters). By the time we finished she was like "You know what...you guys are awesome! What time is church at?" We told her and she said, "I'm going to try to come to all three hours....I think I can make time". Its amazing what service will do. And its fun! I love doing service. Some nice hard manual labor is actually pretty enjoyable. lol
I love you all! Things are going great here...we are staying busy. lol The wards here are awesome at helping fill our schedule. :)
I hope all stays well at home!
Love Elder Cryer!

4th OF JULY

July 11, 2011 Letter
Dear Family,
First of all....Happy Birthday mom! I was thinking I needed to include a 'Happy Birthday' in my e-mail home and then I totally spaced it. And I forgot my picture card that you sent back. So pics and videos will have to wait until next week I guess. But back to my original point. I hope that you have...or had...a great birthday. I hope you know how much I love you!
O.K. So I loved the picture of dad in the hammock. That is a classic picture. Looks like a 4th of July picture. And did I ever mention how impressed I was with that dress that Emma made?! Well, in case I didn't....WOW! That is really good.
John P passed away? Wow, no I didn't know about that. I'm sorry to hear that. Although I'm sure that Parkinson's wasn't a fun thing to deal with. I bet he's happy to be rid of that. I'm glad his services went well. So, Sam played Oh my Father. I like that song. I miss hearing Sam and Emma play. They really are quite good. I have been music deprived on my mission. Mo-Tab can only do so much. There is something different about live music. That's something I look forward to having again.
The gospel really is amazing. Everyone has something unique to offer. Each person adds so much. We all touch other lives in so many ways...directly and indirectly. Tony Luna is a great guy. I have a lot of respect for him.
What?! the parade had a bunch of lawn mowers? That is too funny. Parades are funny things when you think about it. We didn't get any parades here. At least none that we heard of. We just played disk golf, ate BBQ ribs with an active and less active family, and watched a few fireworks from our apartment window. Nothing fancy...but still very enjoyable.
Well, love you!
Love Elder Cryer

Monday, July 11, 2011

OUR NEW MISSION PRESIDENT

July 11, 2011 e-mail
Hello everyone!
Guess what!?!?!? We got a new mission president...and the gospel is STILL true! :) We met with President and Sister Anderson on Thursday. They are very nice. Very different from the Pfiles...but very good. I sat down with President Anderson and he said, "Alright Elder Cryer...how long have you been out?" I said "Um...22 months." He looked up and said "Oh!....you should be interviewing me!" lol It was funny. I was glad to see that he had a sense of humor. I need that! That is one thing that I loved about the Pfiles. They knew when to be serious...but boy did they know when to have fun! :) President Anderson is from Kalamazoo Michigan which is where Elder Murphy is from. I don't know that I ever told you much about Elder Murphy...but I had him as a district leader and a zone leader. He was a really good missionary. Well, I found out that President Anderson set him apart as a missionary! So we talked about him for a minute too! lol
President Anderson wants this mission to focus on three things.
1) We need to be a PMG mission.
2) Daily review our purpose as a missionary and D&C 4.
3) Establish an atmosphere of love, respect, and trust.
I know that this mission will do great things with him as our mission President. One thing that he said that I really appreciated was that he doesn't want to take away from what the Pfiles did. He wants to build upon it.
Well....sounds like you had a fun week!
So the pirates movie is a good one huh? They just keep coming out with more and more! lol I'm glad they're still good. Nothing can beat Cap'n Jack Sparrows entrance in the first movie though. lol That's the best scene out of all of them!
There is a Thai restaurant here as well that we keep meaning to try. We just haven't gotten around to it. There is a guy in the ward here who takes us out every Wednesday to see recent move ins, less actives, and part members. He always takes us to lunch before. The Thai restaurant is on the list of 'go to' places. Ill have to check for pineapple rice when we go. :)
Ah...the good ole pump. It always seems to work........e...v...e...n...t...u...a...l...l...y...! lol Not the funnest process in the world...but well worth it in the end. haha
That family that lives above us cooked again last night! I love when they do that! They brought us more meat, potatoes, and grilled onions. :) Then later the kids brought us these shortbread snickerdoodle cookies. Very good. I LOVE that family now! :)
So, the mission is moving us to a new apartment by the end of the month sometime. They sent us apartment shopping the other day. At first we were told to find a place around a thousand a month. So we did....we found a lot actually. They were all averaging about $700 to $800 a month. Well then after a few hours of that, and after feeling very good about some of the places we found, we got a call. "Actually it has to be about $500 a month." So there went everything that we had found. :( They want to get us in a better neighborhood but I don't know that they can do that for only $500 a month. That's like where we're at now. But I'll keep you updated so you know of any address changes. :)
Well, we had an investigator at church yesterday! It was great. He had to take off early because he has some bad back problems. We have an appointment set up with him for tomorrow. He has a baptismal date for the 24th! He is an older single guy. Very cool.
We have been getting some awesome afternoon thunder and lightning storms. LOTS of heavy rain. The rain doesn't stay heavy for long....but its cool while it lasts. Yesterday there was a really good storm right as we got out of church.
We had dinner with a really nice family yesterday. The conversation reminded me of a conversation that I'd have with grandpa. :) This guy had a Phd in physics! lol We talked about stars...their birth, life, death, what makes them different. We talked about black holes....nuclear reactions....all sorts of stuff. It was very fascinating! Don't know how much I understood..lol...but it was neat. He did a lot of work on Star Wars and also came up with the technology used today to diagnose cancer! Quite an interesting guy. :)
Well....I'm about to get signed off! lol I got quite a bit typed up though...I'm impressed with myself! haha jk jk
Well, Love you all!
I am doing great....
Love Elder Cryer
P.S. Tell Bro Bullock hello back for me! :)

LOT'S OF SERVICE

July 5, 2011 Letter
Dear Family,
So, I told you in my e-mail that I had some cool stories to tell you. Well, I was just joking. I actually don't have any stories. O.K. O.K....maybe I do.
So, a few days ago we walked down the street to go and see someone. Well, they're usually always home but this day they were out. A few doors down we saw this guy chippin' wood. We walked over to see if he could use some help. At first he was like, "Ah, no you guys will get dirty." We told him that was fine....white shirts and ties are our work clothes. So he let us help. We went around back and began dragging branches around front. There was about 20 trees worth of branches. Well, it turns out that it was a retirement home and they had been having trouble with a mountain lion hiding in all the trees. That's why they were cutting them down. As we work we find out that one of the guys working is a less-active member. Then the non-member comes around back and tells us that since we were helping so much he had gone in and asked the lady running the home if she would make us lunch. So he said, "Go eat some lunch and share your message with them. She'll let you teach or whatever." So we went and ate lunch and talked to a guy named O.J. He has been meeting with the Jehovah's Witnesses. He asked about the Book of Mormon. We gave him one, then explained it to him. He said he'd ask his JW friends if he should read it. I said, "Oh, they'll tell you not to. What about if you asked God?" He looked a little surprised and then said, "Your right...I'll ask God." It was cool.
So, service, lunch and give out a Book of Mormon with a lesson....all from talking to one guy chippin' wood. It's amazing what just talking to people will do.
Well, we continue to work a bunch with the sisters. They just keep giving us referrals and asking us to come to lessons with them. It's been good though. I'd rather teach lessons that tract!
We have done a lot of service lately as well. We've been helping with a lot of moves. It's been hot. Today we helped a lady move and it was low to mid 90's. I got a little sun,...not bad though.
So when was it that Sam and Emma are leaving? I know it's soon. You excited yet? I'm excited for whenever I get to make it over there again. Be sure to e-mail while you're over there!
So I don't know if I ever told you...but I bought a Fossil watch off a missionary going home a while back. Well, it says it's waterproof. We went and did service for someone and it got all dirty so I ran it under a very gentle stream of water. Well, the next day there was a bunch of water condensation on the inside of the watch face! So it's been sitting in a bag of rice for a few days. It's almost clear. Good ol' rice....works wonders.
We've been doing a fair amount of tracting lately. We got caught in the rain a few days ago. It felt so nice to be walking in the rain. One guy let us in to get out of the rain. He told us he wasn't interested, but we ended up teaching him anyway....because he started asking questions!
Well, I better get this off to you. Hope to hear from you soon.
Love you,
Love Elder Cryer

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

COOL STORIES TO COME....

July 5, 2011 e-mail
Hey!!!
!*!*!*!*!*!*!HAPPY LATE 4TH!*!*!*!*!*!*!*!
We had a good fourth of July. We spent a lot of the day with a less active family (who are AWESOME by the way!) and their recent convert friend was with them as well. They took us out to play disk golf. It was very hot but we had a blast. They say I'm a pro! lol I don't know about that. But it is really fun. My neck is nice and red! I got some sun. :) I'm O.K. with that though...because I love the sun. Then they invited us to their BBQ with another member family. We had ribs and fruit and chips and pop and beans.....Mmmmm! It was So good! I'm tellin' you....these two families are awesome!
We also did do a little tracting but no one wanted to talk to us! lol (I wonder why? Hmm....lets see....party, fireworks, music, .....or talk to two Mormon missionaries?.....yeah.) Anyway...it was a good day. I got to see some fireworks from our apartment window! Colorado, well Springs area had a firework ban because its been so dry. But not everyone obeyed that....and the air force academy was allowed to put on a show. I also called some families from old areas and wished them happy 4ths! It was great talking to them.
Sounds like your parade was fun.....busy but fun. :) I don't know if any parade can ever beat Greenville's parade. Yeah, sure, it was small and hillarious....but it was the most memorable parade Ive ever been to! lol
Wow....so you had to sleep with the dog in your own house?!?!?! Not gonna lie...that is very sad. :) Haha ~ That cracked me up. I can just see it! Ive only ever seen Sam and Emma and Mom sleep on the floor. I don't think Ive ever seen you do that! That would have been a priceless sight!
Well the work is moving along here. We have a bunch of potential people that we are trying to get to the investigator stage. We should have some solid investigators here pretty soon.
Well, we got P-day today....with a little service mixed in. Should be a good..busy day. :) Maybe Ill have time for a nap...but I doubt it!
I have some cool stories to tell you in my letter...so being looking forward to those!
Well I had better run....
Love you all! Have a great day...and week!
Love Elder Cryer

EVERYONE HAS A STORY TO TELL!

June 27, 2011 Letter

Dear Family~
So, I don't know if you've noticed that my handwriting has changed since I came out, but I've made some changes to the look of it. It's funny because here lately I've had a couple Elders tell me that they've changed their handwriting to look like mine! How funny is that. I just thought you might get a kick out of that.
So, the work is going well here. I still don't feel like I know the area very well, but I'm able to get us around fairly easily. I just make a few wrong turns here and there.
We got to go into Primary again this last Sunday and teach about the first four principles and ordinances of the gospel. I always love teaching Primary. Kids are fun. None of our investigators made it to church this week, which was disappointing. One of them ended up in the ER. We don't really know why. Another one had to work. Another one we were never able to get a hold of. We're really focusing this week on getting people to church and getting a member to every lesson.
Well Sam, how was your mini mission? It sounds like you enjoyed it for the most part. You asked if we do much tracting....it depends on the area and the week. I'd say on average for my mission I've done about ten hours a week. But just here in this area we seem to do between seven and ten hours a week.
It was fun to hear some of your teaching and eating experiences. Missions for sure give you lots of good stories! But you're right....it's awesome! Like you said, there is so much more to people than what meets the eye. Everyone has a history...a story to tell. I love listening to people tell about who they are. I find it very interesting. You really begin to love everybody when you know who they are. When I stop someone on the street to talk to them I always start by telling them who I am and then I ask about them; who are they, where are they from, what do they like to do, are they religious. It's amazing how much people will open up and talk if you're genuine. I wonder how my mission would have been different if I knew when I started what I know now. It's crazy to think about but we need to learn somehow, sometime. But these are skills that I'll be able to use for the rest of my life. I just need to keep applying what I'm learning.
Well, I know this letter is not long but it's better than nothing, right?! And I can't really think of any updates. But, take care....I love you!
Love Elder Cryer

I'VE DONE IT ALL!

June 27, 2011 e-mail
Hey everyone! Its me again!
Well I cant wait to hear all about Emma's birthday! I enjoyed the pics! It looks like everyone is doing great! I still cant believe that Emma is 16 though. That's too crazy!
Whew....so my card made it huh? I'm glad to hear that. It was never post marked? Hmm......so I guess you can just re-use the envelope! :) Just kidding. Well at any rate...I'm glad it made it home. Those things are kinda pricey...I don't want to have to buy another one! lol
Ah yes....the Winlock egg day parade. :) With a fly over and everything huh? Man, they went all out for you! I'll attach a couple pics of a fly over that I got to see! The T-birds! They were having some special ceremony at one of the bases and so they flew right over our apartment! It was sweet.
Sounds like you all had a fun celebration at Gma and Gpas too. I wished you a Happy Fathers day in my last letter but I don't think it's arrived yet....so, HAPPY FATHERS DAY DAD!!!
Oh, and yes....I have had to crawl under houses, over houses, around houses, through crawl spaces in houses.......the works! I've done it all. (Knock on wood!)
Well the work is moving forward here....we've been getting lots of people to teach. And...the sisters have been working in our area too, so they've been giving us lots of referrals. Its been nice. I'll write more in my letter that Ill try to get off tomorrow.
Love you all....I'm about to get signed off!
Have a great week! Cant wait to hear all about it!
Love Elder Cryer

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

TEACHING WITH THE SISTERS

June 21, 2011 Letter
Dear Family,
Well, I hope that by the time you get this letter you will have gotten my letter with the picture card.
Hey! And by the time you get this letter Sam should be back. Welcome home from your mission Sam! It was great getting your e-mail. It was fun to hear about some of the fun and not so fun experiences you had. So, what are your thoughts on a mission now? Missions are awesome....not gonna lie. They can be hard at times but it's such an amazing calling.
Me and my companion went out with the sisters yesterday. No, not a date or anything! They serve in a Young Single Adult ward and so they cover all of Springs. Well they found a guy in our area and so they called us up and asked us to come to the lesson with them so they could hand him off to us. We called up a member of the ward to go with us. It was a full house, but the lesson went really well. He has questions....but who wouldn't? But he's willing to read from the Book of Mormon and pray. It was interesting teaching with the sisters. That was the first time I have done that on my mission. It went pretty smooth considering that we've never taught together. I didn't have to talk as much as usual!
June 23~
Dang it! We're keeping very busy....which is a good thing but it makes it hard to keep up. I apologize for the slightly late arrival of this letter.
We had another lesson with that guy we taught with the sisters. The sisters were there again but due to transfers we had a new sister. She is brand new. Today was her first day. She was very quiet but quite nice. Vince, the guy we're teaching is still excited for baptism on July 10th. We're excited for him.
It has been hot today with a few very small showers mixed in. So that bumped the humidity up a few notches, but still not horrible.
We were tracting some apartments earlier today and got quite a few less than polite responses. We thought about going to a new area but something told us to stay. A few doors down a lady told us that she was not interested but she had a friend who had been wanting a copy of the Book of Mormon. So we gave her one with our number in it. Her friend didn't want us to come by...but I hope she reads and calls us.
My new comp by the way is Elder Hakes. He is from Arizona...so we share a love for the heat. He likes to hike, unlike Elder Nielson, so we will be hiking the Incline. I'm excited.
Oh Emma, you asked if I feel like I'm getting this whole mission thing down or not. I'm definitely way more comfortable doing the work now than I was when I was new. It's funny because today during the lesson everyone kept looking at me when a question or concern was brought up. Elder Hakes has been out four months, Sister Kenny has been out for one day, and Sister Sedgwick has been out six months. So even if you add their time together I've been out longer than double their times put together. I don't know how to say this but...I'm kind of a big deal. No, just kidding. Time doesn't mean a thing when it comes to resolving concerns. It's all about the spirit. But it seemed like they thought I had some vast store of knowledge. It was funny. But no, I still have so much to learn and improve on. I honestly don't think it's possible to learn the limit on your mission. There's always more to do and learn. The key is to learn all you can while you have the chance.
Mom, I tole Bill, the guy we read 'Jesus the Christ' with that you all said hello and thank you. He was very appreciative. He said he hopes to meet you someday. He's such a nice guy. I have made a lot of 'best friends' on my mission. I've noticed that the longer I've been out the more I have a capacity to love. It's easier not to judge...but just to love them for who they are. I love people. I love getting to know who they are and why.
I enjoyed reading Carson's letters home. I miss that fool! So, I want to hear more detail about that alien that they saw. He's going to have a blast on his mission.
It's weird being the only one who knows this area at all because I still don't feel like I know it very well. Now I'll be forced to learn it!
Well, I want to get this letter off to you before I get busy and forget.
Love you!
Love Elder Cryer
P.S. By the way... I wanted to wish you a happy Father's Day dad! You have been and are a great example to me in so many ways. Thanks for being a great father.
And Happy Birthday Emma! Wow, sixteen! That's hard to believe. I hope you have a great birthday and lot's of fun. Let me know how your date goes!

Monday, June 27, 2011

Work and Warm Weather in Colorado

Here is a letter that was delayed~

May 31, 2011

Dear Family,
What a busy day! I swear, P-days are so hectic! It's been good though. We e-mailed this morning after waiting for 45 minutes for a computer to open up. Then we went to a less active family's home for lunch...they fed us burgers and fries. They know how to get to my heart! Then we went and played disc golf. I forgot how fun and relaxing that is. We had a great time. It was very warm today. I got some sun. That took a little while to do so when we got back we had an hour before dinner so we cleaned the apartment and the car. I love a clean apartment and car. There ain't nothin' better!
We ate dinner with the Procters. They're an older couple and they are funny. They had us try some Brie cheese. It was....interesting. Very creamy and had kind of a salty taste. Not something I would go looking for! Then they took us out to Cold Stone for an ice-cream! I got a 'love it' with french vanilla and twix. Very tasty. I'm so full now though. But it was worth it.
So I got your letter today! I really am enjoying my new area. I love the landscape. It's very pretty. The weather is pretty nice as well. We went out a week ago with a member of the ward to go find some less-actives and we drove almost all the way to Woodland Park. That was such a pretty drive.
Yeah, I'll send a card home with this letter. I'd love some pics and video.
Man, hiking in the snow...quite the adventure! I bet it was really pretty. Pike's Peak has snow on it right now. I so wish that I could go hike it. That would be cool. I really want to go do the incline but my companion really doesn't want to. He doesn't really like to hike or bike so I haven't been able to do either as much as I'd like. Oh well...I am determined to do the incline at least once before I leave this area. It's basically just a mile hike straight up the side of the mountain. It's pretty hard I guess. I want to try it.
Sounds like you all had a good time enjoying the coast. That will be a sight I'll be glad to see again. I do miss the ocean.
So Jordan's leaving sometime in August? Man, what's with all my friends leaving right before I get home. Are they trying to avoid me for four years? lol.
Oh, that's right...Miriam's wedding! Wow, that is so crazy. Well tell both her and Ariel that I say hi! Tell Ariel I'm still waiting for a reply to my last letter! Be sure to give her a hard time for me. (You can tell her I said that.)
Well, this morning we went and taught a husband and wife some of the new member lessons. The husband just got baptized in October. They are a neat couple. It was a good way to start the day.
By the way, it is now June 1st. Today we are going to do some weekly planning, then go out to lunch with a member, then go visit some less actives. Wednesdays are usually a full day. Full days are good days though.
O.K. so now it's June 2nd. I will get this letter sent today
So this morning we went out tracting with one of the young men here in the Mountain Shadows ward. He's getting ready to go to Mexico. He leaves for the MTC on August 3rd. He's a cool kid. We had a good time. Although it is kinda hot and muggy today.
We stopped by a former investigator's house today and invited him to Stake Conference. We told him that Neil Anderson will be there. That seemed to spark some interest. So right now we are looking at having three investigators at church. It will be awesome if they all come.
Well, like I said, I want to get this letter in the mail today and I think those are about all the updates so I guess I'll send this on its way.
Love you all a bunch! Take care.
Love Elder Cryer

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

HIDDEN MESSAGES FOR FATHER'S DAY? HMMMM!

June 21, 2011 e-mail
Hey everyone!
Hmm....so still no letter with a picture card? I sent it home a while ago. I hope we didn't lose another one. At least I backed up all the pictures to my hard drive before I sent it home. :) I hope it finds its way to you though.
So, Sam is on her mission?!?!? That's pretty sweet. I cant believe that she leaves 21 months after me and will get home 3 months before me. Whats up with that? lol I loved getting her letter. Very detailed! I cant type fast enough to be so detailed. She made my emails look pathetically short! lol Sounds like she's having a good time though and getting lots of neat experience!
And yes....I do make my bed every day and I do fold ALL my clothes....or hang them up. You taught me well. :)
Well, life here is good. I've had some neat experiences lately. Ill tell you about them in my letter....which I will write and send to you on time! :)
Transfers is today. I of course am staying right here. I figure I'll be here till the end. But Elder Nielson is getting transferred...so tomorrow I will have a new comp. Possibly my last. I'll let ya know about him as soon as I know who he is. I mean I know his name but I know nothing about him.
I can't believe that you were robbed of your fathers day cinnamon roll! lol At least you got a replacement. In the Academy ward here they gave us all pops succors. The bishop made the comment that he wasn't sure which part we should focus on. The 'pop' part...or the 'succor' part! In the Mountain Shadows ward they gave us all 'fat boy' ice-cream sandwiches. Lots of hidden messages in there if you ask me!
Man...its hard to believe that I'm in the tail end of my mission. Only twelve weeks left. You were asking about my plans when I get home. I don't think I'll be starting school until January. You mentioned that you booked the cruise for Nov 26th - Dec 3rd. (That's gonna be a blast!) and so I think I'll hold off on school until January. As far as when I do start school I still am very undecided. I will definitely start praying about it. Anyway...Ive got lots to think about while still staying busy! I will continue to work hard...promise. But I am thinking about what I want to do. Film and Music is still my dream...so I want to keep that in mind as I decide what to do. Anyway...I'd love your input and ideas and all that. But...I don't think you need to send me any catalogs yet because I think I'll wait to start school.
Well, I'm about to get signed off so I better go. I love you all and hope you continue to do well!
Love Elder Cryer

KIDS ROCK!

June 14, 2011 Letter
Well, I have good news! I got your letters today! I got one from Sam and one from Emma. I was starting to wonder if you still cared about me...it felt like a while since I got a letter from either of you. No worries, I've been finding ways to keep myself occupied!
So you're both really going to England?! That is so awesome. I'm jealous. I'm sure I'll get a turn one of these days. Sounds like you'll have a good amount of time over there. I imagine we'll switch to e-mail while you're over there because I don't know where you'll be staying and when. So...sometime before you go you should e-mail me so I have your e-mail address.
So, Emma, you got a prize at the Modest is Hottest dance? What was the prize? You sure seem to be enjoying those dances. And now you're having a group date planned for you. Well look at little miss popular!
I actually have heard about bleeding at every pore being a medical condition. Isn't it amazing what Christ went through for us? You know, in our last Zone Conference President Pfile explained to us that it is through the process of working for someone that we grow to love them. He said, "The more you do for people the more you love them." He also said, "The things that you willingly sacrifice for become more valuable to you." Then he tied that to the Atonement. He explained to us how Jesus Christ had to have loved us to perform the Atonement, but he must of grew to love us so much more through the Atonement. It was something I had never really thought of before like that. The Atonement is an amazing thing. The whole gospel would be pointless without it. It is what allows the gospel to work. It is the enabling power of the gospel.
I have to say I loved the pictures that you sent. Very impressive. The cowgirl one is my favorite though. You're getting pretty good at that whole drawing thing.
So Sam, you got to teach Relief Society huh? You're a good teacher, it doesn't surprise me that the lesson went well. Are you still Relief Society president?
So, this butter-beer sounds pretty intense. Sounds like it would get me on quite the sugar high! It sounds tasty though.
That is too funny about you and that dictionary. I can totally see you falling in love with an old battered dictionary! And you got it for free too...what a deal.
Done with school! Y-ay! I bet that feels good. So you have your Associates Degree now, right? Let me guess...you got all A's?
Well, today was a nice relaxing P-day. We mostly just hung out and relaxed. We don't get to do that very often. We had breakfast again with Bill Scott. He is so neat. We discussed Chapters 6 and 7. That book is so full of information.
Tomorrow we get to go do some service. We're going to go help cut down a tree. I guess he lives up in the mountains. Should be good.

June 16, 2011

O.K. So this morning I woke up and thought "Did I send my letter home on Monday?" I came to the conclusions that I did. Well, then I got your letter mom saying that you hadn't gotten a letter in two weeks. So I figured I'd check again and guess what?....the letter that I 'sent' was still in my notebook. I'm way sorry about that. Don't mean to worry you. I did send home a letter with my picture card though last week I think. Did you get it?
By the way...transfers is coming up on the 21st so I would say wait and see if I move before you send the Ensign. I think I'll still be here but you never know!
O.K. So the work is going good. I wish I could just call and tell you what's been going on because it takes so long to write everything down...and my hand starts to hurt! But yeah. We are working with a young couple who just recently moved here. They don't attend a church so we're going by tomorrow to teach them. We actually just came in from tracting and we had some success I guess you could call it. We got a return appointment and handed out two copies of the Book of Mormon. The last lady we gave a Book of Mormon to was really nice. We were sitting out front talking to her when her daughter, about 5, ran out from the back yard around to where we were. Her mom said, "Honey, get back in the back yard."
The little girl said, "But I want to see Jesus!"
Her mom laughed and said, "Well, look into their smiles and you might see him."
It was awesome. Kids rock!
Well, I want to get this letter off to you so I don't keep you waiting any longer.
Love you all.
Love Elder Cryer

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

A STELLAR MEMBER MISSIONARY

June 6, 2011 Letter
Well, P-day has been fairly relaxing today. I still haven't taken a nap but it's only 3:30 so I still might.
To answer your question, I have started 'Jesus the Christ' before but only got to chapter 10. So it'll be good to restart. It's a hard read. It has been really enjoyable to have someone to talk about it with. This man is such an amazing guy. He has such a passion for the gospel and missionary work.
So how was Miriam and Zack's reception? Did you get any pictures? That's just crazy...everyone I knew is now dating, getting married or going on a mission! I'm glad to hear that Ariel is enjoying school. Did you pass my message on to her?
Well, I hope I can be one of those missionaries who comes home and stays involved, and gets to know people because I love getting to know people! I guess I need to do my home teaching huh? One thing President Pfile has told us that the people who say they don't like to do their home teaching don't like it because they don't do it. He said, "If you just do it, then you'll love it."
So what's up with this ldscreate.org? What is it's purpose? It sounds neat. I'm still undecided with what exactly I want to do with my talents...I'm still leaning towards music and or film but I don't know what I want to do in those fields. Still looking at my options.
You want a what for your birthday mom? What is a 'nook'? I guess I'm behind the times. Is it like a blog? or is it that e-book thing?
Speaking of blogs...how is your blog Sam? Did you ever manage to get it linked to any other sites? I'm excited to see it!
Hmmm...it sounds to me like you and the Masons (and Sarah) had a flat out party! What I want to know is how did they manage to get out by 10:30? Storytelling about Carson would take a lot longer than that! I actually e-mailed him today. It sounds like you all had a nice final hoorah!
So you heard 'Taps' the other day? Me too. Although I heard it in a little less of a spiritual setting. We went over to the Rudolphies for dinner and when we walked in they started playing some up-beat song and then when we left they ran and grabbed their horns and played Taps as we left. It was funny.
The weather here is getting hot. It's close to 90 degrees today. The snow is quickly fading off of Pikes Peak. There were some fires in one of the states by us. There was a ton of smoke in the air because of it. For the past few days we could hardly see the mountains! But now it's all cleared up.
So real quick, before I wrap up. We went to eat dinner with a young couple...the Hammonds. They have a little four year old daughter, cute as can be. Once she finished eating she went and sat by the open window facing the street. Everyone that walked by she'd yell to and say, "Hi! The missionaries are here eating with us!" It was very funny. She's a good member missionary!
Well, that's about all that's new. Things are good.
Love you all! Take care.
Love Elder Cryer

Monday, June 13, 2011

MORE NEW BEST FRIENDS

June 13, 2011 e-mail
Well, hows life? :)
Everything is good here. Lots going on in preparation for the new mission president. We have our new phones now....texting and all. It feels weird to text again! Maybe now I wont be so out of practice when I get my own phone again! ;)
So we have two new families that we're working with. Its nice to have some investigators again! :)
We have been on companion exchanges from Thursday to Sunday. I got to spend Thursday with Elder Baker, a zone leader, who I actually served around when I was in La Junta. Do you recognize his name? Well, I got to serve with him again so that was fun. Then On Friday after district meeting I stayed here with Elder Adviento (from Woodland Park area) and then on Saturday I spent the day up in Woodland Park with Elder Gardner. It was a good few days. I love Woodland Park. It is so pretty. I honestly wouldn't mind serving a transfer there but I have a feeling I'll be dying here in Mtn Shadows and Academy....which by the way I'm completely fine with that as well!
Oh so guess what?!?!?! I'm sure you've heard of Sally DeFord.....she writes a bunch of church music. Well I'm serving in her ward. lol We were scheduled to eat dinner with them but we had to cancel because of appointments. So I haven't really formally met her yet....but that's pretty cool huh?!?! :)
So last night I climbed into bed and it wasn't but two minutes and I heard a knock at the door. I was like "who in the heck would be knocking right now?". But I got up and went to the door. It was our little neighbor girl...she's probably about 10. She smiled and then said, "Wait right here O.K.," and then she took off. I didn't know what was going on. Well in about 15 seconds she was back with her younger brother. They had brought us two big BBQ chicken legs (and I mean BIG) and some grilled sweet onions. It was so nice of them. We thanked them and then devoured it! When we were done we went outside to where they were bbq'ing and thanked them. Their dad was like "Oh you're welcome...it will be better next time. This was my first time grilling on this BBQ". We were like "Better? Man it was delicious! Thanks so much!" So, we may be getting some more BBQ as he experiments. So we have some new BEST FRIENDS! :) We are going to try to make them an apple pie...because we have a ton of apples. We'll make two and try ours first to make sure it turns out presentable. :) lol! Don't wanna destroy our friendship! ;)
Well, hmmm. I cant think of much else new right now....I'll do some brain storming and write a letter! Hows that sound?
Love you all
Love Elder Cryer.

Saturday, June 11, 2011

ANOTHER "COOLEST FAMILY"

June 6, 2011 e-mail
Hey everyone! my weeks been good. Weather has been hot. Ive been lovin' it! I would so rather work in the heat as opposed to the cold. We've gotten a couple referrals this week. So far we've attempted to contact them but have had no success....we'll keep on trying. In fact we just got one this morning...so we're going to try to see them this evening.
Man, I cant believe that Carson is on his mission. That just seems crazy! He is gonna be quite the fun missionary. :)
It was great to get that big letter full of pictures. Everyone looks so good! It was great to see Jodi and Chris and Carson again....oh, and Sarah. And of course its always good to see my crew! lol I got them all put in my picture book. I'm glad that Chris is doing well. She looks great!
Well, I haven't met the new Mission President. He should arrive here about June 28th from what we've been told. There are already a few changes being made in the mission though. We just got word today that we are switching cell service to Sprint and that we will now be allowed to text! How crazy is that?!?!?!?! And that's not even the craziest thing.....we also got word that each companionship will be given a portable DVD player for training reasons. Like, to watch PMG dvd's and stuff. Its a big trust issue, I hope no one abuses the privilege because I think it could really help with the work. I wonder how long till we get i-pads? :)
We just had stake conference. It was so good. We had Elder Niel L Anderson from the twelve here. That is always a neat experience. The thing I love most about them is that they all seem to have a sense of humor. They are regular men. They don't try to be anything other than themselves. Its always neat to see that.
Well, today we're going to TRY to relax a little. We're going to clean a little, write some letters, shop, and then maybe even take a nap....yes you read that right. I MIGHT take a nap. Only maybe. :)
So, I hope everything is going good back home. I'm doing great here....we're teaching a few investigators and a few less actives, and we're getting fed well. In fact last night we had dinner with an awesome family...the Morgans. Before we left one of the daughters asked if we liked 'Pops' cereal. We're missionaries so of course we said yes...its free food! And we do like them....so she ran downstairs and came back up with two boxes of them for us. :) Yup, they are now at the top of my list for coolest members! They said come by anytime and they'll feed us dinner or give us food or whatever. They are so cool. But yeah, so I'm good. :)
Anyway, take care and I'll talk to you soon via email / letter.
Love you,
Love Elder Cryer

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

MEMORIAL DAY TRACTING

May 31, 2011 e-mail
Hey,
Hows everything going? I hope that you had a GREAT Memorial Day! Were there lots of BBQ's going on? We had a good day yesterday....we didn't take p-day as you have probably already guessed due to the fact you didn't get an e-mail. We did some tracting as usual....didn't have much success...but, then we went to see a referral that we had received and that went great! He was so happy to see us and he basically told us that he wanted to get baptized! We talked with him for a bit and got to know him and then we extended a date for him to be baptized. He accepted it right away of course! :) He is excited to come to stake conference this week. I'm excited too because Neil Anderson from the twelve is going to be there. It is going to be awesome!
So by this time I take it Carson is on his way to the MTC. That is SO crazy! We won't see each other for 45 months! I bet he was excited to go. He is going to love it. I bet dinner with them was fun.
So, about disc golf.....we never ended up going because the car dealership trip took so long. So we are going today. As soon as we finish up with e-mails we are going to go eat lunch with the family and then go play some disk golf.
Yeah, we've had some crazy weather....a few thunderstorms. Nothing really amazing though. I want to see a huge storm right over Pikes Peak! Lightning and all. That would be sweet. We've had a few nice days lately which has been nice.
Yeah...I'll do that, I'll send my card home. I'd love to get some pics and video! I'll send it with my next letter.
By the way....when your loading the card could you put on a few pics of the new car, and also a few shots of our house? That would be great! Thanks.
By the way....I like the look of your new ride dad! Pretty stylin. ;)
Well, we are getting everything ready for the new mission president. He'll be here about the 28th of June. There are lots of things going on. We just had our last zone conference with the Pfiles. It was an awesome conference all centered on the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Very spirit filled meeting. I just have one zone conference with the new mission president. I'm interested to see what changes he'll make to the mission. I'm sure it will be great...I mean, he was called by revelation after all!
Well....this computers about to time me out so I better wrap this up so I can actually send it!
Love you all a ton! I'm doing great so no worries there! Keep up the good work!
Love Elder Cryer

Sunday, May 29, 2011

"ISN'T IT AWESOME!"

May 23, 2011 letter
Dear Family,
Well, I'm sitting in a Toyota dealership right now. One of the members here offered to buy me a car since I'm getting to the tail end of my mission. I was shocked...well, I would have been if it were true. We actually got a recall on our car so we're waiting for it to be serviced. So LC doesn't have to worry. I'm still coming back for her.
So, I have been busy learning this new area. Colorado Springs is a nice area. Very pretty.
We live in a little one story four-plex. Definitely not our three story apartment in Liberal, but it is nice. I spent a few hours cleaning it and it cleans up nice.
There is a really cool guy here. His name is Bill Scott. He is retired from the navy. He feeds us every Monday morning and then we talk about "Jesus the Christ". We read a chapter a week and then discuss it. He also does our laundry for us. He even irons our shirts. He buys us snack foods and fruit as well. He is such a nice, neat guy. He does all he can to help the missionaries. He is a recent convert too. He was baptized last September.
Like I said in my e-mail, we spent ten hours at church. We were busy. I introduced myself in Sacrament meeting in the Academy ward, we both shared our testimony of The Restoration in both junior and senior Primary, and we shared personal testimony of the spirit of revelation in Relief Society. There are lots of neat people. Oh, I met brother Eliason. I guess that he's a cousin of the Eliason's that used to live in Eugene! Small world. I also met the Botchers. Their son is serving a mini-mission and he got assigned to serve with Elder Smith in Ulysses and Hugoton. Sister Botcher got excited when she heard that I knew who her son was with and where he was. It was neat.
Hey, our car is done! We're headed back to the apartment.
Today has been really sunny compared to the last few days. The sun has been shining all day.
We have Zone Conference coming up this Friday. This will be my last one with President and Sister Pfile. I'm sad. It's hard to believe that they only have about five weeks left. They have had a huge impact on my life and of course my mission. They are like third parents to me. You two are, of course, my first, then the Masons, then the Pfiles.
This evening has been great. We ate dinner with an awesome younger couple. The husband owns a martial arts studio and runs a couple other businesses. He also plays guitar and accordion. The wife teaches music and dance. She plays the flute. They are a neat couple. They are remodeling a church right now and turning it into a home. They are going to keep the stage and they said that they have found a lot of secret passages. They are going to put in moving bookcases and stuff to hide/lead to the secret passages. It sounds awesome. He said we could stop by and he'd show us around. Then we went to a less active members house to give the wife a blessing. We ended up just talking to them and getting to know them, for about an hour. We were laughing and having a great time. They are a pretty young couple too. He is in the military. They just had a baby. They are a really neat couple. In fact...after we got back in for the night I was thinking about how much I love that part of being a missionary. Getting to know all different types of people. With this calling it seems like we get to know people so fast. I told Elder Nielsen..."Isn't it awesome? An hour ago we had no idea who those people were, or that they even existed, and now they're two of my favorite people!"
It really is neat. I'll miss that.
Well, I better get this off to you before it's too late! Don't want to make you wait too long.
Take care y'all!
Love you,
Elder Cryer

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

COLORADO IS NO KANSAS!

May 23, 2011 e-mail
Hey everyone!
So Grandad and Uncle Gary have continued on their journeys huh...I bet that will be awesome for Uncle Gary to go through his mission area again. I haven't even left mine and I'm excited to come back! I'm excited to hear all about their visit. Hiking in the snow, dipping toes in the ocean, sounds like a ton of fun adventures!
I have been having some fun myself. Colorado is no Kansas! There are mountains here...and trees. The mountains definately affect the weather because we have gotten a bunch of rain, and Woodland park (which is in our district) got snow the other day. It's definately cooler here.
We had church yesterday and I was able to meet a lot of new people. The wards are pretty big, especially compared to the wards and branches in Kansas. We had to be at the church at 6:30 AM and we didn't get to leave until 4:30 PM! Yeah....ten hours of church. So I figure I can take the next two weeks off before I have to go again...right?!?!
There are some sweet members here though.
Today we are going to play disc golf with a couple of the families here in the ward. That should be fun. The last time that I played disc golf was with Jordan and Christine before I left on my mission! Crazy. I will probably fail horribly but hopefully I'll have fun doing it!
Well...I have more to tell you now so I'll write a letter today and send it off either today or tomorrow.
Love you all and take good care of yourselves!
Love Elder Cryer

LEAVING KANSAS

May 16, 2011 e-mail
Hey!
O.K. So...I'm in a bit of a rush! Its transfer P-day and it is hectic. First of all. Sorry for not getting a letter off to you last week. I realized that I never sent one. Just so you know...I had nothing to tell you because of our phone call on Mothers day. But today we have some news. I will not be staying in Liberal. They are moving me to Mountain shadows and Academy. Its in Colorado Springs. I know nothing about it other than the fact that its by the mountains. It should be good.
So today we are driving to Colorado Springs. Its going to be a long drive. I am going to miss Kansas SO much! I have been here for over a year now! I'm probably going to go into shock. Just so you know...no I will not be training this transfer..I'm going to be district leader in my new area.
So I just realized that Grandad and Uncle Gary will be reading this e-mail. Whats up!?!?!?! Are you having fun yet in Oregon? Is the weather treating you well? From the e-mail I recieved it sounds like your having a good ole' American time! Wish I could join ya...but that aint gonna happen!
By the way Uncle Gary....yes...I do remember that whipped cream incident. How could I forget? That scarred me for life!
And no...haven't seen any tornados.
Well...thanks for all the pics! Sorry this is so short but we're a little pressed for time.
Love you all...take care
Elder Cryer

Thursday, May 12, 2011

GREAT TALKING TO YOU!!

May 9, 2011 e-mail
Hey!
It was great to hear all your voices yesterday! And it was quite the surprise when Carson came on the phone! Thanks for that! It was a great "last phone call". I enjoyed having some one on one time talking with each of you. You all sound like your doing good.
I'm in the same boat you are....not really much to say. I told you about everything on the phone.
I am sending two pictures with this e-mail. The first is of a purchase that I made a few days ago while we were tracting. I bought this nice pair of Crocodile skin shoes for 5 dollars and that tie for 50 cents. Not bad if you ask me!
The second picture is of an awesome family here in Liberal. I am going to miss this family a lot! They are so fun! Thought you might enjoy the picture.
Thanks for the pics that you sent. I enjoyed those. That one of Sam and Emma after doing their homework cracked me up. That's what I feel like doing some mornings during my studies! (Just joking......but seriously.) :)
Well....I look forward to hearing how your visit goes with Grandad and Uncle Gaz. That should be lots of fun! I wanna see lots of pics!
Well, take care...I will talk to you all next week!
By the way...next week is transfers. Our P-day will still be on Monday though. That will be Monday the 16th. Make sure not to send mail to the Liberal address if it wont arrive before the 14th because or else it will probably never make it to me since I'll be getting transferred.
Alright....well I will talk to you later!
Love you all
Love Elder Cryer

Thursday, May 5, 2011

JUST A SHORT NOTE

Letter
Dear Family,
How's everything going? Things here in Liberal are good. The other two Elders had a baptism today after church. We helped boil water for it. They still haven't fixed the hot water heater! Can you believe it?! They should have it fixed tomorrow. But the baptism went well. The little girl that got baptized is nine and her mom will be getting baptized next week. It's exciting.
We had a pretty promising family that we had found while we were out tracting but we went back by and she told us that she ran the idea of meeting with us by her husband and he was not interested. She also told us that she ran the idea by her pastor and he said they shouldn't allow the 'Mormons' into their home. It cracks me up that people have to ask their pastors who they can and can't allow into their own home. Anyway, so that was kind of disappointing.
Thanks for those 'gems' from conference. Those were good.
Well, I can't think of anything else really to tell you. It seems like there should be more news but I don't know what it is.
I hope everything is going good at home. By the time you get this it should be Friday. That means I'll be talking to you in about two days! How exciting is that?!?!?!
Well, take care until then!
Love you all~
Love Elder Cryer

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

TRANSFER IS INEVITABLE

May 2, 2011 e-mail
Well Hello hello!
Still here in Liberal Kansas for about two more weeks. A little under. It's weird knowing that I'm leaving when we still have two weeks till transfers. The branch president knows President Pfile and so he knows that I'll be leaving and he actually told me that he's going to call President Pfile and complain! He said that he wants me to stay. He said that we're some of the best four Elders that he's had in a while and he wants us all to stick around! But...I doubt it will change President Pfiles mind. I thought it was funny though. I'm excited to leave but at the same time not so much. I've been wondering where they'll send me. I've been told by a lot of people that they think that I'm going to a place called the San Luis valley. Around La Jara Colorado. We'll find out soon I guess.
I still have a good chunk of time left on my mission and the last thing I want to do is waste it. I really do have a desire to make these last few months my strongest. I got a letter from Brother Seamons the other day. It was very motivating! I need to send him a thankyou but if you happen to see him let him know I said thanks! It was just what I needed that day it came!
I'm sorry to hear that Sam's been sick. That is not fun at all. Elder Clark has been a little sick lately as well. I've been sick free for a while now (Knock on wood) so hopefully that will continue. I hope you feel better soon Sam! :)
Man, so my room has gone from a studio, to a sewing room, to a guest room?!?!?! Dang, that rooms good! So will they both be staying in that room? I'm excited to see pictures of their visit! Too bad they wont be there for my phone call home. You'll have to tell them I say HI!
Well I'm glad to hear that Emma's England fund is doing well. That will be such a fun trip!
So, about Mothers Day. 2:30 your time should work good for me. We had a family invite us over to eat dinner with them and then make our phone calls from their cell phones (They have Sprint, so you'll probably need to call me back after I call you). So we are planning on calling around 4:30 and 5:00 our time....so 2:30 or 3:00 your time. So if you want to plan on that then that should work just fine! I'm excited to hear your voices again! It seems like Christmas was just yesterday though doesn't it?! Its crazy how fast that time flew!
Well, I started a letter to you this morning before we headed over to e-mail so I'll finish it up and get it in the mail today or tomorrow.
Well, Love you all!
Have a great week!
Love Elder Cryer!

P.S. Another Elder forwarded this to me about the new Mission President. Thought you might enjoy it. This may even be old news to you! You know how us missionary folk are kept in the dark a bit longer than most!
Take care... Elder Cryer

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Ethan Shiveley
Date: Mon, May 2, 2011 at 10:47 AM
Subject: Rich boy!
To: Benjamin.Cryer@myldsmail.net


They will begin service about July 1.

J. Patrick and Cynthia M. Anderson
J. Patrick Anderson, 61, and Cynthia Lenore McGregor Anderson, three children, Colorado Colorado Springs Mission; Kalamazoo 3rd Ward, Kalamazoo Michigan Stake. He serves as stake president and is a former counselor in a stake presidency, stake mission president, stake Young Men president, high councilor, bishop, counselor in a bishopric and Young Men president. Retired vice president of Corporate Affairs, Stryker Corp. Born in Sun Valley, Idaho, to John Clinton and Mary Lou Keeffe Anderson.

Sister Anderson serves as a Relief Society secretary and compassionate service leader. She is a former Relief Society president, Relief Society teacher, Primary president and teacher, Young Women president, and Cub Scout den leader. Born in Boise, Idaho, to William Allen and Rachel Brown McGregor.