Catching Up ...Serving with the Prince, Parasites - Oh MY!, The Gift, a new Companion from the Philippines, Visiting Gotham

Dec 8, 2014

Dear Family

 Soooo. You know where I spent my weekend? IN GOTHAM!!! well kinda. The batman movies were filmed in a place called hamilton ontario. And since Elder Canlas had to take an english test for  four hours in toronto, I got to hang out with the zone leaders there. You know why/ BECAUSE I'M BATMAN!!!! Seriously though, you know how in the first movie the asylum let loose all the crazies? That is a true story. there was a mental hospital here that lost all it's funding and now there are literally hundreds of crazy people wondering the streets everyday. We didn't do much finding that day. We have been doing a lot of service. It was fun. That has been pretty much my week.

Dear Nick

    I'm sorry you hurt your leg bud. How did you do it? But hey, sounds like you had a fun time with dad. Just would like to fix one mistake in your story. You and dad went to shop for parts to MY car. I do indeed have parasites, well at least I did. the doctor gave me pills that I'm pretty sure killed them off. Love you buddy.

Dear Dawson

    Sounds like you're still a champ at lacrosse. Keep it up. You know, you don't give me a ton of info when we email... But hey Vegas. That sounds dope. Niagara falls is kinda like the vegas of canada. We don't go there often. Love you bud. Hope you have a happy christmas.

Dear Ryan

   I always listen to the prophet....I mostly listen to the prophet at least. I do remember your friends. But for a christmas list you should do something that is easy to get but may be of a different variety than what mom and dad thought. like an in and out burger that has four patties. that's what I would ask for. Love you bro.

Dear Mom

   I kinda watched the christmas devotional. The satellite broadcast was having issues so we only saw about a third of each talk. I liked what i did see though. Are you sure you want to send it to the apartment? That is a little sketchy. If it isn't a big package it might be safe but we have a very tiny mail box. But i like christmas miracles. I'm sorry to hear about Dad's leg. How many surgeries has he had on that anyway? love you mom. 

Dear Dad

   Look forward to talking to you on christmas. Since when did we have a hymn writer living in our neighborhood? You'd think someone would bring that up before my mission. I really don't know what else to say an my companion is giving me the we got to go look. love you pops

I love and miss you all

Elder Erasmus

Dec 1, 2014

Dear Family 

    So this week all the missionaries went to brampton for a special conference. It was really good. We were instructed on the "He is the Gift" initiative. Just go to christmas.mormon.org and they put out this cool video to help people remember the true meaning of Christmas. That was good. We also had an early christmas present from president clayton. We got to see meet the mormons. That was REALLY good. After the conference we had a pretty standard week. One thing I did discover. I have parasites. I told people about what I found but since I had no symptoms I was confused as was the doctor. He gave me a bunch of pills that he said would get rid of them but would definitely cause uncomfortable side effects. I'm out of pills now and have no side effects. I'm pretty sure I am invincible. Other than that, standard week.

Dear Nick

   Ice skating is alot of fun. Sounds like thanksgiving was a good time. Did you get your hamster as a baby or was grown? I forgot. Would you believe that I completely forgot that thanksgiving was this week? My companion is from the Philippines and he reminded me. They don't even have thanksgiving over there! Any, miss you buddy. Love ya

Dear Dawson

   How did you break your stick? Were you just whacking people too hard? It seems like you have been working out since I have seen you last. Did you have fun during the football game? Naked babies are always fun for the holidays. Have fun with your lax practice and keep being awesome. Love you dude

Dear Ryan

   My toes always poked over the edge of my board a little bit. i'm sure it is not a big deal that you need new gear. So dad tells me that you are pretty much the fastest person alive. Congrats. You're not dating the same girl over and over again are you? Keep the possibilities open my friend. Also the prophet told us not to steady date. Just keep being the super duper dope brother you have always been. Love you bro

Dear dad

   Just because Shelby is an adult doesn't mean she can just do what she wants...Does it? I was an adult for almost a year and I still had to do what I was told. Sounds like you need more even teams for football. How many points did you actually score? I don't think you know this, but I have never ever had j-dawgs. That didn't become a thing into after I left. Still love you though.

Dear Mom

  They only thing I really need for Christmas is gloves. I had a pair last year, but I lost them sometime in February. No one actually had us over for thanksgiving. I didn't even remember till we came home that night and my companion was looking at his calendar. We did have some interesting times though. If you want the boys to remember the christmas season for christ, just show them the video from the website mentioned above. It's good...Or maybe that I've just watched joseph smith prophet of the restoration so many times anything different is a good video to me. Either way, love you.

I love and miss you all

Elder Erasmus

November 24, 2014

Dear family

    So this week has been an adventure. On the way to meet my new companion we got in a car accident. Elder Lowry rammed into the back of this women's car and the entire front is messed up. It's still drivable. Since Elder Lowry got transferred, I've been the one who has to deal with the repairs and everything despite the fact he was driving. I have definately introduced Elder Canlas to all the chevy dealer's in the area. On a more positive note, we had stake conference this week. It was all about temples and now I can't wait to come home and get married...Maybe that wasn't so positive. what was fun were the members who drove us. The had their grandfather with them.Although he doesn't have Alzheimer or dementia, he uses his age as an excuse to be ridiculous and childish. He is kinda my hero for that. My new companion's name is Elder Canlas. He's from the Philippines. He is a nice guy but a bit of a neat freak. 

Dear Nick

    That sounds like a fun movie. I have no idea what any of those words you used mean, but it sounds like a fun movie. It is indeed snowy up here. But it's no more snowy than its been for awhile, so no complaints. Are you pumped for the holidays? The mission president says we can't do any zone activities that day. He's pretty much been banning fun recently. But christmas always makes me happy. Love you sport.

Dear Ryan

   Roller disco? That came back? HOW DID THAT COME BACK?!? I miss snowboarding. I really didn't think I would miss it that much, but I really want to be on a mountain. There are no mountains in Ontario so anything related to them I want to do...Even jet ski the waves of kaibo. How do play with 8 players? The stages aren't that big. any way, Love you bro.

Dear Dawson

   No news? Oh well. I had a great week. I hope you had one too. Love you bud. I heard you had a football tournament. Was that Fun? were there cheerleaders there? Have fun buddy.

Dear Dad

   I'm sorry not everyone can feel comfortable climbing to precarious heights on rickety ladders. It seems like the holiday season is finally rolling around down there. Up here it's been Christmas since Halloween. I have indeed acquired a coat that keeps me nice and toasty. I do not know how water proof it is though... Anyway merry christmas and happy thanksgiving. Love you dad.

Dear mom

   Yay TREK!!!! Trek is fun. The pioneers had to walk across the fields and mountains for months with no breaks or medical assistance, Isn't it great that we can experience a fraction of that? It sounds like the heard is thinning quite a bit for the holidays. I promise I'll be there for next christmas if it makes you feel better. My new companion likes to cook and clean and is a real nice guy. Its hard for me to feel like I'm not taking advantage of him, but he just wants to serve me so bad...I don't know. Everything is going good in the falls. Love you mom.

I love and miss you all

Elder Erasmus

November 17, 2014

Dear Family

   So we had a few interesting experiences this week. First of all I tried to buy something with my home card only to find out it expired last month... That was embarrassing. How do I fix that by the way? We had the first snow fall of the year... Well first time it stuck around. We've been having the occasional flurries since September. Since the work in our area has been a tad slow lately, the zone decided they needed to blitz our area. We got a new investigator out of that. He's in the coastguard. That's pretty good. We also had interviews with the president. He has officially band all object lessons, flip books, and any material besides Preach My Gospel, and the scriptures. This includes analogies. I don't know how I feel about this since I teach almost exclusively analogies. But he's inspired and all that.

Dear Nick

   HAPPY BIRTHDAY....AGAIN! Sounds like you had a good party. I heard Uncle Greg got a new dog but I have yet to meet him. How are you doing in school? Also what do you want for christmas. I know thanksgiving comes first but they don't have that here. There are so many decorations around it's ridiculous. Love you bud

Dear Dawson

    How are you doing? Are you excited for lacrosse? I just want you to know that dad never taught me how to play poker. That's another card game you could kick my butt at. What has been your favorite new movie that has come out while I've been away? Interstellar sounds good, but you seem more the "captain america" type to me. Love you dude

Dear Ryan

   Sorry you didn't win, But you are still a champ in my book. Now you can focus on other things, Like dating and snowboarding. Those are truly respectable activities. Just remember that you are an awesome person. Love you bro

Dear Dad

   Commercials are good. Have you found the next antonio bandares? Also, how come you never taught me how to play poker? That would have been fun. The artic is here but i already survived once. BRING IT ON! anyway. The work here is getting better and I'm still alive and mostly not depressed. All is well in zion.Love you dad

Dear Mom

   I didn't get transfered, but the prince did. I'm picking up my new companion. He's a phippino fella. Don't remember his name. I took care of nala when she was there last. Who's doing it now? We haven't met with our investigator but thats only because she got sick. Other than that things are pretty status quo around here. Nothing new to report. Love you mom

I love and miss you all.

Elder Erasmus 

November 10, 2014

   

This week was fun. We did quite a bit of service and finding and stuff. We also went on exchanges. I went to stony creek with Elder Johnson. He is like 6'7 but he looks like he is twelve. He makes me feel incredibly tiny. It was weird. We found a good new investigator. She is only about thirty but she uses a sweet cane that looks like a foot. Pretty sweet. We also had Zone council this week. It was fun and all. Had the whole district lunch thing. The only problem is that we have very angry zone leaders. It keeps us on our toes.

Dear Nick

CHAMPIONS!!!! Way to go buddy. It sounds like you crushed them too. Thats good. I am also glad you now get to play with your hamster. And I don't care what they put bug guts into nerds, they are delicious and I enjoy them. I'm sorry I didn't write last week but I didn't get the letter till wright when I was about to leave. bummer right? Love you bud and I hope you have fun at your party.

Dear Dawson

  Alright lax champ. It's great you made the black hawks. Football is ending though. Does doing this black hawk thing take as much time as football? If not, what do you do for fun? Do you just hang out with your friends,what activities do you do? Anyway, getting checked out of school is always fun. Love ya dude.

Dear Ryan

   To answer your question from last week, If it's an alien dude with a gauntlet, it's probably thanos. He's this alien dude who has a crush on death so he tries reforging the infinity gauntlet. Do you remember that one danny phantom movie where that had gems in his gauntlet that allowed him to do anything? It's pretty much that. ANYWAY! Sounds like I might be writing the next state champs. Super sweet. And beating star fox is no small feat...unless you found out a way to do it in more than one sitting. anyway...again. love you champ and I hope you win.

Dear Dad
We had ward conference this week. our bishop gave a talk about star trek. Our bishop is interesting. The talk was on the kobiache moroe. No I don't know if that is spelled correctly. Anyway, its the thing from the first movie where it was impossible to pass then kirk cheated. He likened it unto our lives. We are in a situation where it is impossible for us to pass, but luckily we have The atonement which isn't a cheat, but does change our reality to be able to accomplish life. I liked it. So it seems like everyone is doing fine. That is good. Love you dad.

Dear Mom

We do get the ensigns. I'm sorry I didn't email last week, but I got the letter literally as I was walking out the door. I did get my contacts this week. I also hot glued my glasses together so that is how things have been with my eyes lately. Yay shelby and tim are moving back!...Am I an uncle yet? It's been like, a year. Any way love you mom

I love and miss you all.

Elder Erasmus

November 3, 2014

Dear Family

  So, I'm getting used to the fact my family doesn't love me...It's ok. I don't NEED to hear from them I guess. Anyway, This week was halloween. We don't really proselyte on halloween. We hide in the apartment and pray that the goblins and ghoulies can't get us. There just isn't anything productive we can do on halloween. Other than that we have had a very slow week. No much happened. My companion accidentally shaved his head. That was exciting. How have your lives been. If your not writing me because I made a wise crack about ryan's hair. I'm sorry. It looks nice honest and I bet it flows wonderfully in the wind. I miss you guys. Love you

 Elder Erasmus

October 27, 2014

Dear Family

A lot of interesting things happened this week. We had our primary program as well. One of the little girls jumped off the podium  after her thing. Children are just like sheep running over waterfalls and jumping off podiums. The teachers just stopped trying to stop them after a while. We also had the ward halloween party. We had a sixteen year old investigator there. His favorite past times were flirting with the young women and throwing cupcakes at the youth leaders...and us. Elder Lowry doesn't have halloween on the cook islands so he really didn't know how to feel about the whole thing. I had to explain the traditions and stuff to him. A member also decided to treat us and take us to a fancy restaurant. We of course, accepted. The sign said Japanese and Thai cuisine. It was sushi. Only sushi. My dearest family, have I ever told you about my irrational fear of fish. This was one fancy restaurant and I couldn't let them think that I wasn't gratefull. So I ate the fish. So much Fish. So much raw, uncooked, scaly, tentacley, Squirmy fish. AND I DID IT WITH A SMILE! 

Dear Nick

   Way to go on being number one in your league. I don't think you answered my question of why you couldn't hold your hamster. Was she too small or something? Your halloween outfit sounds cool. I will see you by next halloween. How weird is that? Love you bud.

Dear Ryan

  Do you wash your hair? It's longer than mine ever was and is honestly starting to look a tad greasy. I'm not saying you need a haircut, but you might want to think about having a trim here and there. On a more" your glad that I write you" note, YAY!!! REGIONAL CHAMPS!!! Your the big guy on campus now huh. I was also really digging your costume. I thought it was nice and retro. Keep being awesome bro.

Dear Dawson

   Sounds like you had a fun week too. Isn't it a bit late in the year to have a water ballooning though? So I hear that this lax thing you are doing is a pretty big deal. good luck getting in. Love you dude.

Dear Dad

   That was indeed a very classy way to open an email. Color me impressed. We don't do alot of proselyting around the falls because it's all tourists. I get that everyone needs the gospel but we need to teach peoploe who actually live here. Yay my car's fixed. Other than that the work is kind a slow around here. The economy is real bad in Niagara so everybody is moving to Alberta, But thats ok, cause we only want the elect anyway. Wheat and the tares and all that. Yes I do remember when it snowed for halloween that one year. It was cold. Luckily we knocked in to that one guy who had a heater and gave out hot chocolate. I love that guy. Love you dad.

Dear Mom

    So funny story. We had to come home for lunch early on friday because we had an appointment when we normally had lunch. We also had a major card war. That is when we through mormon.org cards at eachother. And we also were joked to by our district leader that the zone leaders were going to come and expect our apartment. So there we were sweaty with a living room COATED in passalong cards and our door gets knocked on. Panicked and terrified we answered the door to your friend who had the package. We had a bit of a deer in the head lights reaction. We said thank you but we weren't the most chatty. Please tell your friend that I am really grateful to her. I don't think I expressed my appreciation enough. Also, there were no contacts in the box. I was looking forward to those. Thank you for the care package though. It was delicious. What did Ryan get on the act? Was it 28? I got a 28. What did shelby get again? Anyway love you.

I love and miss you all.

See you in less than a year

Elder Erasmus

 Oct 20, 2014

Dear Family

This week has been very interesting. I got sick. It's some sort of flu cough monstrosity. Other than that, all's good. Probably the most spirity thing that happened this week actually happened with members not investigators. This one family has a son who doesn't have a testimony but is still active because his parents make him go. They invited us over to dinner and we shared the plan of salvation with them, bore our testimonies and invited the head of the home to pray. We popped up as soon as the prayer was done, but the rest of the family was bawling and sharing their testimonies. I guess they just needed a good p.o.s. talk. After we stood there awkwardly for a few minutes the mom pulled us into a hug. That is against the rules, so we felt all the more awkward.

Dear Nick  
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BUD!!!!!! So you got a hamster. Cool. When we were having dinner at a member's, their daughter brought out her pet hamster and let it run all over the table. Why can't you hold it? Is she sick or something? DID YOU GET A BABY HAMSTER? baby hamsters are so cute. they kind look like gummy bears, crunchy warm gummy bears... So you got smash bros on the 3ds. Do you know if the 3ds has the game sharing thing that the ds has? If so, you can all play it at the same time. Happy birthday bud. Love ya

Dear Dawson
  Pumpkin patches are the funnest thing in the world. If you don't like them it's because you suck at having fun. You need to accept that things are fun before you will enjoy them. If you go into any situation thinking it won't be enjoyable, then it is going to take alot more for you to actually enjoy it. It sounds like you had the week off from school. What cool and exciting things did you do to keep yourself entertained? I love you bro

Dear Ryan  
First off, It sounds like Nick got smash bros for his birthday. Let him play it(You don't even have your own 3ds) Secondly, MY car is in the shop. It's great that you got into the playoffs. Probably going to be the next state champs. What are you going to do for the day date for the Halloween dance? What has been the most interesting thing that has happened in you senior year thus far? How much do you weigh? Do you have any questions for me? Love you dude

 Dear Dad    
Sounds like Nick had a good birthday. And yes I do hit my year mark this year. That's exciting . . .That was weird. It sent half way through typing....Any way. My cooking has marginally increased, but I don't exactly have the time or resources to practice the culinary arts. A peanut butter sandwich is usually all I have time for. Not much else is new with me. Love you dad.

Dear Mom

 My address 5257 drmmond, Niagara falls in an apartment building in room 602. It would probably be easier for your friend to drop the package off there, but the package would definitely be safer at the mission office... which is two hours away. Tell dawson that trick or treating is something you should on to for as long as you can. Love you mom

Love You guys

Elder Erasmus

Opening a New Area

October 14, 2014

Nathan comparing America to Canada via Milk

Hello Family

   How are you doing? Sorry my last email was a little short and this one is a little late. Transfers and National Holidays. You know what I have learned on my mission?  Holidays are the worst. Sure normal people like them, but to a missionary it just means that nobody wants to talk to you and they all have legitimate excuses as to why not.  We did get fed on this Canadian thanksgiving though. Good'ol turkey dinner. It was really fun having it with a family. Everybody here is super excited to see us because they haven't had missionaries here in awhile. We're practically celebrities. The work is a bit harder because we're opening the area and all, but I'm optimistic that it's going to be a good transfer. You know what is awesome? I can see America from our apartment. We are four minutes from Niagara falls. We sometimes get to watch the fireworks display from our apartment. If you would like to know how the work is going, its slow. We just opened the area so we only have two investigators so far. One's named Vern. We were dropping by to see someone in his apartment and we were able to ninja our way in. We figured out the code on the buzzer. He apparently met with missionaries once before but didn't remember most of it. We retaught the restoration and invited him to pray. You would be surprised how many people have no idea how to pray. Once he got the hang of it he said a very nice one. That is your missionary experience. have fun with it.


Dear Nick 
  Aren't you a little young to drive a moped? Hamsters are fun though. Just make sure you don't buy a pregnant hamster. we ended up with more than what we bargained for. Happy birthday you little genius you. Also, ask for a ps4 and destiny. love you i also sent you a few pictures pf me comparing Canada and America. happy birthday.

 
Dear Dawson  
(Dawson went to a huge birthday party this week of his friend's "Golden" Jensen, Nathan had a good time with that name)    
Sounds like you are kicking it at football. But before we get into that, You have a rich friend named Golden? Would you say that you have a wealth of friendship with that guy? Meeting him must have been a golden opportunity. Really found the diamond in the rough with that one. I bet you have such enriching conversations. Truly friendship is the greatest worth you can find. I would make more jokes but I'm feeling a bit bankrupt. Anyway, back to sports. You should try out for basketball. Ask anyone who has gone though high school and they will tell their junior year was the best. Except for me. I hated my junior year because I wasn't doing anything. I got a little into theater towards the end, but the rest of the time I was bored and didn't have that many opportunities to be with my friends and my grades suffered because of it. I would tell you to get involved with as much stuff as you can in high school, because being involved was when I had the most fun. Anyway, You're a smart kid and I'm sure you'll be good either way. Also, keep being awesome. Love you


Dear Ryan  
  I have told Nick to get the game you wanted him to get. I have done all I can do. What do you mean you're having trouble with your costume? (Ryan is going as a caveman to the Halloween dance) Is it outdated or something? Do you plan to go clubbing after? I've been feeling really punny lately. Anyway I hope you have fun at the Halloween thing. And keep being a trooper at football. love ya bro.

Dear dad   
It seems like the boys are butting heads again. Just let them rage for a bit and get it all out. Then go and give them a big bear hug. That would probably work. Old wards can be fun. I have served in mostly old wards, And despite it being the number one honeymoon spot in the world, Niagara is full of old people. Is there a way you can put an attorney or someone on your companies payroll to get the insurance agencies to pay sooner? Just a thought. Love you dad and I am praying for you.

Dear Mom   
 I think we live at 5257 drummond apt#602....I think. I've only been here a week. I haven't quite got a coat yet, but I am working on it. I talked to Dawson about stuff but If he really doesn't want to, he shouldn't. It seems like Zack's mission is off to an exciting start. I remember the first time I was hit by a car on my mission. Good times. Grandmother and Papa Joe also seem to be doing well. They write me every week as well. Like I said, I am optimistic about this transfer. Love you mom
 
I love and miss you all Elder Erasmus



October 6th, 2014
 
Dear family

     It's that time again. Transfers. Remember the Prince? Well now I am serving with him in St. David's. Niagara falls is in that area, so I'll probably go back and get more pictures there. I am kind of disappointed  I'm going back to a district I already served in, but it should still be alot of fun. Other than that, most of the exciting things that happened were conference talks. I really liked Robbins talk on Saturday. Everything else has been relatively smooth sailing.

Dear nick

   It sounds like you had a fun time at conference. My companion also kinda broke his ankle last week. he's been hobbling all over the place. It's kind of funny. Be more careful drinking hot chocolate. That's how people die. love you bro. keep being awesome.

Dear Dawson

   Sounds like you had a rough game. It's also good that you are helping mom around the house. Just remember to stay chill. It needs be that there is opposition in all things, but you don't have to create the opposition. Love you.

Dear Ryan.

    So you broke my car. I guess I might have to come off my mission just to smack you upside the head. Just kidding, but seriously, don't break my car. What are you going to the Halloween dance as? Go as a pirate, or an astronaut, or a monkey. Be a monkey. and she can be a banana and you could tell people that you find her a-PEEL-ing. Do that. Love you bro.

Dear dad

   So oupa really tore into Ryan. It's good that he can have a few humbling experiences. He just needs to realize that somethings need to be thought out beforehand. How are you doing? It seems like everything has been a little bumpy state side with Shelby's arm and now my car. I'm going to pray for you. I hope you guys are doing ok.

Dear mom

    It's getting colder, but i haven't needed the coat because i am in a car area and I haven't really had time to get one. Preparation days are a lot more stressful than they used to be, but I'll try to get one at Brampton when I go. Is Ryan really doing that rough? Tell him that he just needs to think about what kind of person he wants to be when he's older then try to be that person now. Also tell him I love him. Love you too.

I love and miss you all

Sept 29th

Dear family

     This week has been a rather challenging one. I broke my glasses and only have one spare contact left. I have also learned that most optometrist in Canada will only serve you if you have ohip (The Canadian health care thing) so I have been very careful of my contacts. Other than that we did our usual finding activities. We also went to an old folks home to give a member a blessing. One of her roommates claimed to be a member and tried to do temple things with me. It made me very uncomfortable. At least we get to go to general conference this week. We watch it in the church (apparently that's just what Canadians do) and there may or may not be a pot-luck in between. 

Dear Nick

    Jogathons are great. what place did you come in over all? Also it's great that you got a touchdown. I don't have any pictures of me , but here's one of my shoe.

                                  

 Share it with mom. the strap at the top isn't connected. Your doing  great in scouts it seems, your football seems awesome, and you seem to be enjoying school. Keep being awesome you little stud.

Dear Dawson

   "Dear Nathan, school is easy, I'm amazing at football, and I'm pretty much the coolest person ever." It seems that you are doing pretty well in your high school career. Just remember to do what you love and have fun and you will definitely be a champ. To answer your question, I had a sickle because my mission has been sick...le. That sounded better in my head. Love ya.

Dear Ryan.

   Told you you'd be back in your pads by no time. It also appears that you are being quite a lady killer. Go easy on them bro. Just remember who you are and have fun while you can. Miss you bro.

Dear dad

   Dawson shaved his legs? I actually shaved my legs last winter with my trainer because he told me it would help my thermals keep me warm. It didn't help my thermals keep me warm. Having prickles down there is not fun. Did uncle noel and oupa have this house before I left? I don't remember it at all. I'll have to spend some time there with you when I get back. Love you Dad.

Dear Mom

   Transfers are actually this weekend. I'm actually hoping to get transferred. I need a change of scenery. Its good to get to know people but I'm getting stir crazy. It seems that grandmother and papa Joe are enjoying their time in Africa. The letter they sent me makes it sound like the life in some refugee compound. I hope you have a fun time with the smaller primary. Love you mom.

I love you all and I will keep you in my prayers

Elder Erasmus

Sept 22, 2014

Dear Family

   

  This week was fun. We had another zone conference this week. This time Elder Craig a. Cardone came and taught us on how to offer an invitation to pray to an investigator.  I got to see Elder Olson again and a bunch of other people I served with. It was a pretty cool conference. We also went tracking alot this week. It was mostly unproductive. We were inspired to drop by a former. We got him as he was entering through the door. He even came to church. It is starting to get cold here, but we're still good. 

Dear nick

  I see you are becoming quite the young scout. Very good. I do wish that I could of baptized you too, but I think Ryan enjoyed it. Especially since he beat you in monopoly...I wish I could play board games. It is also awesome that you got to see the temple dedication. As a missionary, I really started to appreciate how awesome temples are. Stay awesome little bro.

Dear Dawson

    How is the house boring? you have your brothers, Your video games, your friends, You get to celebrate holidays, And you can go play football and be an undefeated champ. Sounds like things should be exciting. Either way, it is great that you are rocking at football. My experience with Alta reminds me that high school football is not easy and for you to be doing this good as a freshman is awesome. Keep being the champ I know you are. Love ya.

Dear Ryan

   Did you go on the date with the same girl who you went to the dance with? haunted houses are fun. So you're going to play football again next week? That's great. Don't push yourself though. Just because you can play doesn't mean you have to be the superstar right from the get go. Just remember to pace yourself. Stay gold bro.

Dear dad.

                             

I got you a picture of half the mission. I'm in there somewhere. It seems that you are keeping busy with all these activities and such. That is great. Too bad about Shelby's accident though. I hope she gets better soon. Love you.

Dear Mom

    THERE ARE SO MANY MISSIONARIES! That is incredible how many of us are out. Is everybody doing ok? Some of the news I have been receiving sounds less than super awesome. Let them know that they are in my prayers. how are you doing with primary? Is everyone still ll rambunctious? Love you mom.

I love and miss you all. have a good week.

Sept 15, 2014

Dear Family

   This week has been interesting. We have had a thousand and ten referrals that we contacted. Guess how many of them decided to become investigators. That's right, none. Weird. We also had Zone conference this week. We had zone council the week before, zone conference last week, and on Saturday we are going to have Elder Cardon coming to speak to us. We just keep packing on the meetings. It's all good though. We did quite a bit of tracting this week. Got some potentials. Not much else happened this week.

Dear Nick

   Sounds like you had a fun week. You got a party and got to run the ball in football. Really moving up in the world. Just remember that you are awesome and you can do anything. love you buddy.

Dear Dawson. 

    So you are a freshman taking college level physics classes, and you think school is easy? What the heck? Are you some sorta genius football player? ARE YOU BATMAN?!?!?! Corner canyon gets to do homecoming activities and stuff? Alta shut all those down after my sophomore year. Did you guys get a wii-u? How are you going to play these awesome new games? More importantly, how will I play them when I get back? Stay awesome bro. Love you

Dear Ryan

   Looks like you had fun during home coming. Are you two dating or are you just friends? Either way. mom says you had some issues with deodorant. I'm sorry, but you have to admit that it sounds funny. Hows your shoulder doing?  Keep on keeping on and you will be back in the game in no time. Love ya stud.

Dear Dad

   Why do people in the book of mormon have such sore legs? Because of all the nephites. Are you laughing now? Good. Ryan really took an atv ride again? I guess the past is in the past.  How are the other boys doing? You're coaching Nick, right? So did the guy get his insurance company to pay for him? That's good, right? Business is booming. Love you dad.

Dear Mom

   Well I finally had to buy new shoes this week. My old ones literally would not hold themselves together. I might send them home just so you can see how worn they were. So Elder Holland came to Ryan's football? That's crazy. Did his relative play for corner canyon or the other school? Maybe he is now in the boundaries of the ward. I can't believe that they already changed the boundaries that many times. I love you mom.

I love you all and bid you adieu 

Elder Erasmus

Sept 7, 2014

Dear Family

   

    This week has been pretty good. We found a ton of new investigators. We also had a baptism. that makes 5...Well two of them were 9-year-olds but still. Earlier this week we had a zone council. They used to be called zone training, But President Clayton thinks calling it a council will prompt more participating in the training. We were basically told to stop teaching "humble" people. We're only suppose to focus on families and kingdom builders. Kinda makes me feel like a zoramite but I see what he's getting at. All is good this week.

Dear Nick

   Sounds like you are doing really well in football. 19 to 0 is pretty nice if I do say so myself. But more importantly, YOU GET IPADS!!!!! What the heck? How come I didn't get ipads in school. You young kids have all the luck. Just remember how blessed you are bud. Love you.

PS, I promise to try not to call 911 as much.

Dear Dawson

   it's ok that you don't email me. It's not that I look forward to talking to my family only once a week. It's cool. How's football doing? Are you still a giant, or do you have to deal with people your size now? How is school doing? Love you bro.

Dear Ryan

   Sure there are things that I regret doing, but that's what repentance is for. I think the biggest change I had so far is just understanding how to use the atonement. Everyone knows that Jesus died for them but not very many people know how to tap into that sacrifice. You already got your sling off? It's only been a week. You'll probably be playing football again by the end of the month. keep on schmoozing the ladies though and have fun at home coming. Love ya sport.

Dear Dad

    Sounds like a scary week for Shelby. Why didn't they just snap the bones back into place when she first got admitted? It's good that she is getting better , but geez. This week has been a bit cooler. we have had crazy thunder storms almost every day. One kept shooting lightning for almost four hours. That was pretty nuts. And as for the signs. I can't tell you how many investigators didn't progress because they didn't get a sign. Some were pretty solid too...Oh well. love you dad.

Dear Mom

   You had to watch a video for training? What kind of video was it? As a missionary, we are only allowed to watch videos that have been produced by the church. maybe we can watch this one. Sounds like the boys are doing well in football. That's good. I love you mom.

I miss you guys a tonne.

Elder Erasmus

Elder Erasmus...not transferred (now that is something new) and 911

Sept 2, 2014

Dear Family
    It seems that medical emergencies have been a recurring theme for the entire family this week. My companion and I had to dial 911 three times this week. One of our investigators had a schizophrenic attack and we had to call 911 and his work (which was a bar) to let them know that he wouldn't be able to show up. We also were giving a member a blessing because he was feeling under the weather. As soon as we commanded the sickness to leave his body, he started convulsing and vomited violently. He ended up loosing ten pounds in a week. Yikes. On the more positive note, we also found quite a few investigators on labor day. We found a brother and a sister who seemed to be very interested. We also had to go to the hospital to give another member a blessing. Did you know that if you tell them you are a minister for a church you get free parking. pretty cool huh.

 Dear Nick   
It must have been really scary when Shelby broke her wrist. She's a tough girl though. Did you know that once Shelby broke her arm and mom waited like a week before she took her to the hospital. She even played soccer with a broken arm. The rest of the day seemed pretty fun though? Big house, four wheelers, all sorts of fun. So grandmother, Papa Joe, Joseph,  Zack and Me are all on missions. Are you getting ready? Love ya bro.

 Dear Dawson
 Hear you're doing pretty good in football. keep up the good work and make sure you keep up your brilliance at math. Just keep being awesome. Love ya.

 Dear Ryan  
You broke your shoulder again!?!? That sucks. How long did it take to heal last time? A month and a half right? You'll probably be able to finish off the season. Have you asked for a blessing on it yet? I know that I probably just have my mission goggles on, but if you give the Lord your burdens, he'll help you through the tough times. Nothing can't be healed and no mistake can't be forgiven through his atonement if you let it. Keep being awesome bud. I know that you'll come out on top. You always do.

 Dear Dad
How is your work going? Still good? just curious. Lots of damage seems to be done this week. I'm actually in a bit of a hurry because it's a Tuesday so their shutting down the family history center early. I've been praying for you and want you to know I'm grateful for all you've done for me in my life.

Dear Mom  
There are so many missionaries in our family, it's ridiculous. like I told Dad, I'm being rushed out. We're definitely going have to compare mission stories when we all get back. Love you tons.

 Elder Erasmus

August 25th, 2014

Dear Family.

Transfers were this week. I didn't get transferred. This the first time since I left Brampton that that happened. I really don't know how I feel about staying in london. I was actually looking forward to being transfered.  I guess I just have something more to do here. We spent most of this week preparing for a multi-ward  corn roast. The plan was to get has many people we're working with there as possible. It didn't exactly pan out that way. The corn was good though. Even though none of our investigators showed up, we still were able to meet a few less active members and other members of the wards. That was good. Also, Did you know they now have super automated nerf guns? Children do not need that much firepower.

Dear Nick  
 Keep your elbows tucked in when you run and push off the balls of your feet. Thats how I became fast anyways. So you're going to Willow springs. Cool. you should be nice to everyone, even weird people. Keep doing awesome at football. love ya bro

 Dear Dawson
   The funnest thing I do is just talk. When you don't have fun things to do, you find fun things to say. I pretty much just joke around with my companion about everything. How is highschool treating you? Stay gold bro. 

Dear Ryan  
You won. Sweet. Do you have senioritis yet? snowboarding is fun. I got quite a bit more before i'm a year out. I have been out a while though. You've gone through like four girlfriends this summer. Slow down man. Save some for when you get off your mission. Stay frosty my friend.

Dear Dad
 How do you know ryan's friends are the ones who egged you? I haven't heard from the other erasmuses since Christmas and e-mailed them back when they emailed me, but my budget does not include letters and snail mail. I'll contact them this week though. Love you dad, but I think It is I who misses the sunday dinners the most. Microwave burgers just don't cut it. 

Dear Mom
 I haven't been close enough to go to the temple. We can only go during general conference and I will be too far away this time too. It's too bad about the egging. I remember when I was coming home from YM once and i saw some kids toilet papering are house. I tackled one of them and made him take all the paper down. good times. I guess even being in another state won't keep shelby from getting some of your cooking. love you mom. I love and miss you all.

 sincerely
 Elder Erasmus

August 18th, 2014

Dear Family
this week has been an interesting experience. The youth of ontario gathered together to have this huge multi stake youth conference. We spent a good chunk of our time helping out. the elders of our district went over to western university around 4 in the morning on Wednesday to direct all the buses and vans that the youth were coming in. the next day we spent the majority of the morning filling up water balloons and the entire afternoon helping small children fire them out of this huge sling shot at the youth. It was pretty fun. We didn't have an opportunity to do a lot of finding, but the members did compensate with a fare share of referrals. The hardest thing we have had to do is keeping our recent converts active. they just don't seem to want to do anything now that they're baptized. That's where the temple comes in handy

Dear Nick
  I played defensive end. It's pretty fun isn't it? It's too bad that movie had bad language in it. Everyone here was talking it up pretty good. Why were you in a dunk-tank? Anyway, love ya bro.

Dear Ryan
   I don't think I even went to five of those mission academy things...Dang. Try inviting your friends go to church with you and mom. Show her they're good kids. Or just get your haircut....HAHAHA sorry I shouldn't joke. Good luck on your game, sorry i can't be there to cheer for you. Also be nicer to nick. Love ya bro

 Dear Dawson
 How tall are You? You always seem bigger each picture I see of you. How much do you weigh? You are an ogre. I would say more but you have not written me so this is all you get. Still love ya bro

 Dear Dad
   It's good to hear that business is booming. Also Nick seems to be having fun with football. Tell Dawson and Ryan that their job is not to punish nick for anything. They are there to be examples to the little guy. It's good that he has a fair amount of friends. Love you Dad.

Dear Mom
   So Zack is a missionary now. Interesting...It seems that he should still only be 14. Such is life i guess. Ryan seems to be going through a hard time. Go easy on him. He's a good kid and he can make good decisions. I tried to sneak out of those missionary things when ever I got a chance. It's cool that youe last couple of Sundays have been super spiritual. love you mom

Love you all and I'm praying for you
Elder Erasmus

August 11th, 2014

Dear Family.

This week has been an interesting week. We had baptisms and baptismal interviews through out the zone. Being the better half of the district leader, that meant alot of traveling for us. We also had a baptism. here is a picture of said baptism. 

 So that was pretty fun. We also had zone training this week. The london zone is actually the biggest zone in the mission, so it felt like a regular party... well as far as missionary meetings go. Most of the week was focused on the baptism, so not much happened.

 Dear Nick  
 I still don't think anyone has told me the position you play. It sounds like you had a fun week. the members here have been going off about how great guardians of the galaxy is. you have to remember to tell me what you think. Love you bud.

 Dear Dawson  
How tall are you? Also, can you beat ryan in a fight yet? He's a twig and you're a lineman so it should be easy. Not that I'm promoting you fighting, but a friendly wrestling match. Remember to eat your protein. love ya.

 Dear Ryan
Why are you dating so many girls if they're nothing but trouble? Oh well. At least you aren't broken anymore. Sometimes i feel like you heal faster than wolverine. You broke your, femur, your back, and your collar bone and still managed to not miss a football season. I'll try to talk mom out of cutting your hair. Love you

 Dear Mom
 Don't cut Ryan's hair... Well I tried. Are You a ward missionary? You seem to know alot about the missionaries. The family seems to be doing alright This week. Is there anything you need me to do? I feel like i need to still be doing chores. So weird. Anyway love you.

 Dear dad
 You want an interesting tracting story? We ran into a pastor from the united church. Pastors are always fun, because they start out trying to bash but once they figure out you know your bible better than they do it just turns into a nice conversation about spirit-world and stuff. It's almost like once you show you can stand your ground, they respect you for it. It's good you still let nick sleep in your bed. especially since you stopped letting me sleep there when i was five. Still love you though

 Goodbye family. Love and miss you
 Elder Erasmus

A New Area

August 5, 2014

Dear family

   This week has been wet. It rained and thundered almost everyday. Not a lot happened this week. But that's ok, because we got a baptism on Saturday. That will be number 4. Not to brag, but the mission average was 6. I'm ahead of the curve. Welp... That's all i got.

Dear Nick

    Thank you for the email. Is dad working you hard for football? The rodeo sounds fun. You're going to be ten when I get back. TEN. That's all Your fingers. Weird. Love you bro and make sure you're an awesome...What position do you play anyway?

Dear Ryan

   Hows football? Your collarbone letting you play now? It's august. That means school starts soon. How crazy is that? You're gonna be a senior. That means you're in your last year before your mission. I would write you about relevant things, but you didn't write me this week so....Yeah. Have you acquired any new games or movies that you love? How is the world of normal people?  

Dear Dawson

   How much do you weigh? based on some pictures and what Dad tells me, you should be nearly 200lbs. That should make you a good lineman...Or linebacker. have you ever thought about upgrading?

Dear Dad

   That beach sounds super fun. At first I missed things like TV and Video games and worldly stuff.   Now I miss hanging out with you guys. My companion is great but he's only one person and I never get a break from him. For family history work, I just browse to see how far back you can get. I did find one line that went back to Adam though.

Dear Mom

   It's a shame that papa joe is getting old, but he is as healthy as an ox. He'll do fine. I miss family reunions. Do you have a list of all the people I might know who are going on missions? i'm just curious. No one from outside the family has emailed me. I'm not bitter though. How are the boys handeling going back to school? ...i miss school. anyway, love you.

I love and miss you all. letting you know, you are in my prayers.

Elder Erasmus

July 28, 2014

Dear family

   

   The people of London are very... open. I've learned more about most of our investigators than i care to know. My companion is also an interesting character. He talks almost exactly like Jerry Sienfield. It's actually been really chilly this week. I thought that the humidity would destroy me but i guess not. probably one of the funniest things that happened this week was I asked an old women why the sewers were constantly smoking. Her response."Well the people in London are so hott, that their poop is just too funky fresh." She was in her sixties and we were having dinner. fun right? This  is also a pretty fun ward. the first counselor does nothing but makes puns over the pulpit. They asked us to speak yesterday at church. with five minutes notice, I did a pretty good job. it was better than the guy who talked after me. he gave a talk on how to survive the apocalypse. like I said, fun ward.

Dear Ryan

   The rock isn't known for his acting, he just makes jokes on how big his biceps are. Also, we have a drive in? since when? High adventure sounds like fun. I wouldn't mind getting a calling to work with the young men when I get back. Have fun and remember to drink lots of water. 

Dear Dawson

   It is important to remember that you need to bring alot of candy on these trips. Not for eating, but for ammo. I can promise you that you will get into food fights on this hike. love ya.

Dear Nick

     Sounds like you got some sweet stuff from Shelby. It also sounds like you got into a fight. You should share some details with me. Besides that, how are you liking football? Dad working you hard? love bud.

Dear dad

   That Ryan has always been good at talking his way out of a situation. The baptism statistic isn't higher here than other parts of the mission. We just always go through finding teaching baptizing cycles. right now we're in the teaching part, so that's good. The weather has been cooler here, but i thought that was because of the super cold winter. The great lakes did completely freeze over after all. Is nick having a good time with football? Did he beat the other kid? Isn't he doing karate? Anyway, love you .

Dear Mom

  That wasn't my companion. We were on exchanges so i brought the Spanish speaker to our dinner appointment. My companion is a bigger guy who actually played the phantom in phantom of he opera. And yes, I have given myself my last two haircuts. I'm getting pretty good at it. It still doesn't feel like Shelby REALLY moved to arizona. I just can't picture it. She'll probably have moved back by the time I get home. love you

I love and miss every last one of you.

   Elder Erasmus

July 21, 2014

Dear Family

    I'm in london and it is SO  weird. Every last one of our investigators, formers, and potentials have some form of law of chastity issues. There are "exotic" shops on every corner, and the SEWERS WILL NOT STOP SMOKING!!! I'm pretty sure that there is something messed up in the water. We tried several different stores and could not find a water filter. I take that as evidence. The plus side, our apartment is super nice. It's on the eleventh floor and over looks the city. It has the comfiest couches I have ever sat on and it's own washer and dryer. That is a big deal to missionaries. All in all a pretty weird area. My companion, Elder Hicks is the district leader. I haven't had a leadership companion since elder Olsen. He's a pretty cool guy, except for the fact he's dying of a cold. Who gets a cold in the middle of summer? I don't know why I've been transferred so much. The missionary who was here last was here for nearly seven months. She actually came out with me. Maybe I just need to see more of Ontario?

Dear Nick

  I never actually been on the alpine coaster. I have been on the alpine slide though. I used to try to go so fast that the board thing would fly off the track. I never got burned though. Sounds like you guys crammed your entire summer vacation into one week. Must be fun. Have fun at swimming lessons. Love you.

Dear Dawson

   Did the flip at least look cool? I can't believe the new smash bros is already coming out. Your going to have over a year's worth of practice on me. Why was the football in the parade? My guess would be that corner canyon is the only high school in draper.  Stay frosty my friend.

Dear Ryan

   BROSTER!!!! Love ya dawg. So you're back in the football lineup, eh? Have they had the first game yet? You're going to be fine. How was all this crazy adventuring I've been hearing about? Did you beat dawson in the race? If he beat you and got a road rash than you need to step up your game. Is the monkey movie on the list of things I need to see when I get back, or only on the list of things i might see? stay gold ponyboy. love ya.

Dear Dad

   When things got hairy back home, I tried to just be nice to everyone. Don't get mad at people for being mean and don't baby people who have been put down. I don't know how well that applies in your situation. I can't believe Shelby is moving. I still don't feel like it is really happening. Time is one weird thing. I feel like the transfers go by like weeks, but the weeks feel like months. I'll be praying for you.

Dear Mom

   Jordyn is going on a mission? Man, everyone is going on a mission. It sounds like the family might be in some struggle. I know the missionary in me is the only reason I'm saying this, but do you guys have nightly prayer and scripture study? That has helped more investigators than I care to mention. Trek was fun. I wasn't the only one who pushed the cart, but it felt like it sometime. The pioneers had some hard time. I guess my mission is just another trek for my life. Love you and miss you.
>Sincerely Elder Erasmus.
   

WOW - I really need to keep Nathan's Blog updated

July 13, 2014

​So I found that I can send one picture a week. Here's a picture of me with a scythe. The field is white and ready for harvest!

July 13, 2014

Dear Family

  

   I would like to inform you that I am leaving Bowmanvile Oshawa and heading over to london....London Ontario anyway. Almost as cool. I actually have kind of an important question. Do you guys have the balance for my card? Or my pin number? I've been using it for stuff and I just don't want to run out. I am getting transferred, but that means I might be able to send pictures next week. Yay. Type you next week

love Elder Erasmus

July 13, 2014

Dawson's taller than dad. Dawson's taller than DAD! DAWSON'S TALLER THAN DAD!!!!! WHAT IS GOING ON!!!!!!!!!

  

July 7, 2014

Dear Family

    We met the new mission president. He's totally a hippie. He's from California, he surfs, He plays acoustic guitar. The only problem with this theory is that he's a world famous gynecologist. He delivers babies. I spent my fourth of July on exchanges with my district leader. He's Canadian....Yay. I did use those little poppers i brought with me. And you said they would be confiscated, HA! I don't remember if I told you this, we have been taking  jujitsu as a way to find investigators and i am almost at my second stripe. HOORA!  That's pretty much my week....Oh, and we had a baptism. 

Dear Dad

    Oupa says you're having some health issues. Is this true? If so, you should tell me so I know what to pray for. As a missionary, I have that kind of pull. Your holiday sounds fun. To be honest, the mink creek experience is fun but I just wouldn't mind a change every now and again. Can David still walk? It sounds like he broke his back? I guess batman broke his back and was able to climb out of a prison pretty easily. I will pray for you regardless. love ya

Dear Nick

  Canoeing sounds fun, but a fish. I hate fish. It was nice of you to donate a few things to David. you're such a nice guy. I really wish I could send you pictures but the library won't let me. I'm sorry. Still love you though.

Dear Dawson

WASSUP!!!!!!! I can do it too. Sounds rough having to do flags. I don't think I ever had to do flags on the fourth. Hope you work hard this summer. I can't believe a freshman has to go up against seniors. Have I told you how crazy that is? Love ya.

Dear Ryan

  I'm not sure I like the less linear approach. If you don't have to beat dungeon A to beat Dungeon B, than that means you don't have to use the item/power up from dungeon A either. That means the dungeons will become more isolated and less Progressive. I would much more prefer the linear dungeon system...but that's just me. What do you think? Also, Why do you keep getting grounded. Either you're not learning anything or mom is just on your case. Which is it? I hope you're able to still decimate in football. Love you.

Dear mom

   We actually had this one lesson with a women who said " I was actually planning to move to Utah to meet some Mormons. I didn't know there were any up here. They just have such high standards and I want to be a part of that." Pretty cool, eh? Other than that, the week wasn't too terribly interesting. Are You and Ryan still butting heads? maybe we all need to take some deep breaths and think about how bad the situation actually is. Love you.

Love you all sincerely Elder Erasmus 

June 30, 2014

Dear family

    Our mission president died this week. (That is code for going home) Our new leader is president Clayton. There's a storm coming. He's rumored to be so different than president Scott, that he will ban tracting. I don't know how i feel about this. We were able to get out of a few service activities this week, so we have more time to go finding now. That's good, right?

  We have been doing a bit more finding this week than last.  Elder Yo wants to do some purification challenge. That sounds like the worst thing I ever heard of, but he won't listen to me. I am not looking forward to that. 

Dear Nick

  I have played judges. It was one of my favorite things to play during recess.  It also sounds like you are a little bowling champion. How did you get to be so good anyway? Aren't angry birds epic enough? Anyway, I love you and hope you have fun playing football. 

Dear Dawson

   Are you a punk? Don't be a punk. Punks get in trouble. It's cool that you're already are on the football team. And only a freshman too. Anyway, I think you're awesome. Love you bro.

Dear Ryan

   So what game are you the most excited for? I remember we would always be talking about e3 for days. It's a good thing that you're starting to feel better. You'll be catching balls in no time.....No homo. Dad says you want a scooter. Don't get a scooter. scooters are lame. Love ya bro.

Dear Mom

   Sometimes you play on things for thirty minutes, sometimes an hour. Kids are weird like that. This week is also canada day. Canada seems to like taking american holidays and moving them ever so slightly so they can call them canadian. thanksgiving, boxing day, and now canada day. It's slightly frustrating.To answer your question about the mission spirit, I don't even know. I don't feel different. I've baptized three people and the mission average is five, so there's that. Anyway love ya. wish jacob well for me.

Sincerely Elder Erasmus

June 23, 2014

Dear Family.

  Weird week this week. The other elders in our district were having their tile done so they had to crash at our place for the week. We have a VERY tiny apartment by the way. But it was fun having more people to hang out with. It was basically a slumber party. We also have been doing alot of service. The sisters that were before us basically sold us out for slave labor for the next few months. Whoohoo. I have actually had a reason to wash my jeans this week. It's weird. Any way...

Dear Nick

  Thank you for spoiling the movie. I appreciate that, really. How is football going? What position do you play? Are You x'd? Dad says you just started. I didn't start until I was 11...I had a terrible time. Don't worry you get used to it and eventually enjoy it. Love you bud.

Dear Ryan

  E3. Tell me about it. I know it happened, Elder Yo's sister emailed him about. If video games are all you're doing right now, then share the love. You'll play, don't worry about it. you broke your back and were back in a couple of weeks, remember. just keep on keeping on. Love ya

Dear Dawson

  Mountain jam, sounds fun. How did it go. I hear john bytheway gave a talk. He's basically the missionary equivalent to Brian Reagan.  Good luck with your basketball. You could tell me about e3 too if you want. Kinda desperate for info on the new zelda. love you bro

Dear Dad

   Talked at a prison? Sounds creepy. I'm sure the people there all have wonderful testimonies and all that, but prison is a scary place. If you ever want to find something fun about church history, look up j. golden kimbal, president of the seventy. I have no idea how he got that position but he did. Love you pops.

Dear Mom

   So many missionaries. I know this the most cliche thing to say, but I really miss my momma's home cooking. I can't send pictures. The library computers won't let me. You guys are in my prayer's though. I love you.

Cordially yours 

Elder Erasmus

June 16, 2014

Hey guys

  How's it going? This week has been pretty crazy. We actually had a sleep over at our apartment because the other elders were getting their tile done. Apparently they are moving out next transfer and so their redoing things. We also were in charge of a mini mtc youth activity. We ran them through all the drills we did and had elder yo pretend to be an investigator. Pretty nifty. On top of that, we were also put in charge of a single adult conference. We originally were going with a family history and temple work angle, but that idea was so inspired that the stake patriarch had it too. We changed it to missionary work a two days before it happened. We came up with this brilliant idea of making candles and doing the "let your light so shine" bit with missionary work. Two things I learned. The closest place to buy candle wax is on the other side of the zone which is an hour away, and wax is very VERY hard to clean up. It was fun though. This week we just did so much service activities it was kinda training.

Dear Dawson.  

    Sounds like you had a fun time at your football camp. You're going to be a freshman right? It's so weird that 9th graders are now in high school. I just have one more question." a ken dama their way" what does this even mean? you are awesome and I love you.

Dear Nick

  I remember when I went to sport camp at dimpell dell. I also remember doing karate. You should do karate. Beg mom to let you do karate. DO IT. What grade are you going into this year? 4th right? You all are so big. Love you.

Dear Ryan.

   It's ok. I didn't want a letter from you this week anyway. I don't care. I DON'T! But seriously. I just realized it's june. You know what happens in june? E3 that's what. I'll be home  next year for christmas. I need to know what i need to ask for. Infact, give nate tripp my email and have him email pictures and stuff. You are my connection to the real world. i need you. I miss you. Love ya

Dear Dad

  I wasn't really bumbed last week I just needed someone to vent at. I'm doing fine. We definitely mixed things up this week. How are things on the homefront? Everybody playing nice? When is treck by the way? I thought it was this year. Is Ryan just moping around the house? He can still do things with a broken shoulder. Love ya

Dear Mom

  Is he really only 145? I would have thought he'd bulk up by now. Going to disney world would be fun. Maybe we could have another family reunion like the north Carolina trip. We have to wait for zach and grandmother to get back... and ryan...and sam. Everybody's going to be gong! When will we have everybody home again? Now I'm stressed. Love you.

Elder Erasmus 

June 9, 2014

Dear family

   

   I am now stationed in bowmanville east side. It's pretty cool. My new companion is Elder Yo. I can't pronounce is name so I just use yo. He's a convert of about two and a half year and half of that has been on his mission. he's been out about five months longer than i have. He's basically the polar opposite of elder Ward. He doesn't tract and we spend all our time trying to work with the members. I get that is the smarter way to work, but if the ward doesn't want to help it feels pretty pointless. I get to drive again, so that's a plus. The area didn't really let me enjoy the first week though. The only investigator the sisters had was not interested at all and slightly less accountable. by the way, our apartment is tiny. literally, one room. This getting way too negative so i'm just gonna into my individual letters now.

Dear Nick

   I remember how fun field day was. we would always manage to turn everything into a huge water fight. it sounds like the house is going to be pretty empty this week. At least that means you get the tv and computer all to yourself. By the way, you're not gonna get any pictures for awhile. We don't have a family history center in our chapel and the library computers are stopping me from uploading my stuff...Sorry. love ya bro.

Dear Dawson

   It sounds like you're the flyest shiz on the block. Starting football as a freshman. Super duper dope. However, I am concerned over that comment you made about makeout city. At your age, kissing is only a spectator sport. Don't play it till you're at least seventeen. Other than that, have fun with high school. Love ya.

Dear Ryan

   HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!! How did you manage to break your shoulder? I'm sorry for laughing but that picture mom sent was just too good. Don't worry though. You've broken worst things and still managed to get back in the game. I'll bet you'll be suited up to play in a month.  I'll be praying for you. love ya

Dear Mom

  Alma 8 14... I think? It's the one where an angel give Alma the younger a pep talk.

How's Ryan taking the whole "broken" thing? I bet the house will stay slightly cleaner at least, Without all the stanky equipment and all that. I don't know what to tell you about primary. Maybe start giving out treats, but after a few weeks stop giving them treats if they're not reverent. I don't know, that's why I was never in primary. Well I hope you have fun with just nick in the home. Love ya.

Sincerely Elder Erasmus

June 2, 2014

Dear family

  

   Well, I'm officially getting transferred. We are actually getting white washed so we have to put the apartment in order. It's gonna be a rather short email today. Tanya's getting baptized on the 8th, I leave the 3rd. Super. What else happened this week? I made a cake. But I forgot to use oven mits when I took it out of the oven I am so smart guys. Canada also got a nation wide stake conference on Sunday. President Eyring and Elder Holland spoke from Vancouver and it was broadcast-ed  all over the north. One more cool story, We got pulled over by a cop because Elder Ward pulled an illegal u turn. Luckily we were able to play the ignorant american card and got off without a ticket. fun stuff. We are going to the zoo today with a member, so I'll probably send pics next week.  love you guys a ton. 

Elder Erasmus

May 26, 2014

Dear Family

   You know how allergy season starts in April down there? Well here it's the end of May. My face feels like there is a giant slug where my brain used to be and the mucus is seeping out every hole it can find. Super fun. Also to add to the super swell time I have been having, we spent one day building a shed for a recent convert. That wouldn't be so bad except that her backyard is the source of all mosquitoes in the world. I don't think there is a spot of skin that hasn't been bitten. Other than that, this week went great. We got to go see a concert... Kinda. it was a charity concert. It was also a fiddle concert. Neither me nor elder ward like fiddles, so it wasn't incredibly fun, but hay. A concert is a concert. It's the last week of the transfer, so things are gonna be either more relaxed or hectic depending on it goes. That's my week anyway.

Dear Nick

   When did you learn how to ride a bike? I could have sworn you still had training wheels when I left. I've been playing alot of tennis. maybe I'll play you when I get back. You'll probably win though...I'm not very good.  want to be the zombies when we play though. Are You gonna do anything fun this summer? You're old enough for cub scout camp now, aren't you. I always had fun there. Love ya bud.

Dear Ryan

   As long as your a humble tennis player... Why are there so many people playing tennis all of a sudden? Also, I'll ways be there to support you. I'll be right here(You can't see me but I'm pointing to your heart). Can you play football with your table induced injury? anyway, have a good summer...nard dawg.

Dear Dawson

   What the snot is a kendoma? Is it candy? Is it chewy? Can you share it with your friends? How many come in a package? If I eat all of them, will I get fat? These are the questions of the soul. Sucks about you loosing your championship game and all. But now you get to do a real man's sport. FOOTBALL. Right? I never know what kind of attitude  we have about sports. Hope you have fun with whatever it is you decide to do. Love ya.

Dear Mom

   I'm  fine. The collapsing thing was just a one time event. Also I'm pretty sure demons were behind it. Sounds like the kids had fun at park city. I think that is one of the things I missed the most. I'll be there in a few years though. Why are so many people going on missions. I know it's what we're supposed to do, but still weird that everyone is leaving. I miss you guys and hope pray for you. How did Nick do at his mathbowl thing anyway?

Elder Erasmus 

May 19, 2014

Dear Erasmus Family

   This week has been a fun week. I went on exchanges with Elder Olsen on Friday. Everything was going fine...Until I collapsed in the middle of a lesson. We were standing at the porch of one of their investigators when all of a sudden, I became very dizzy and lost consciousnesses. The weird part was that I was completely deaf for about forty seconds before and after that. Weird. You may have noticed that I am writing you on a Tuesday instead of Monday. The reason for this is that this was actually a holiday weekend in Canada where they celebrate the queen's birthday. Our mission president thought since so many people won't be at work, it would be the perfect time to tracting and find people. Unfortunately nobody actually stays home for the holidays, so maybe three people actually opened their doors all weekend. Our most progressing investigator at the moment is named Tanya. She has been to church twice and is super interested. Strange, as when we first met her I thought she was going to be one of those one lesson and drop investigator. I guess the spirit is just plain old smarter than me. Weird week...

Dear Nick

   Sounds like you had a fun week too. Are you bummed that lacrosse is over? I don't really understand how you and Dawson got so smart. I sucked at math in highschool. There seems to be alot of new cool movies coming out. As long as you don't get too scared you should be fine. A little fear never hurt anyone. That video game sounds pretty fun. Is one person the plants and the other person the zombies or are they both plants? When I see something interesting I'll take a picture for you, but most of the stuff here seems pretty mundane. love ya bro.

Deae Dawson.

  WELL THANKS FOR SPOILING THE MOVIE!!! That's the kinda thing you don't talk about till after the person has seen it. Are you gonna win the playoffs? You should. All you have to do is believe in yourself. YOU JUST GOTTA BELIEVEEEEE!!!! Lots of yelling in this email... Anyway. I'll be praying for you to win the big game. Lots of love

Dear Ryan

  Yeah, they're totally gonna let you take a her girl to the hotel... I wish I could smack you through the internet. You got to bring sam with you last time so they should let you bring some other friend. Shame about your lacrosse game, but you can't win them all. But now you get to get ready for a real man's sport, FOOTBALL... Do we still like football? I don't know. Best wishes

Dear Dad

   Sounds rough. That is alot of pills too. At least you're feeling better...right?

 It sounds like you guys have been having fun though. especially with the weather. It's been raining here almost everyday. A bit warmer but I still have to wear my sweater. who was the villian in the new spiderman movie? I've heard the green goblin, electro, rhino, and misterio. Xmen also was one of the movies I was most looking forward to before I left. So tell me if it's good or not. Love ya

Dear mom

   You went through my stuff. Not cool. I'm doing fine with clothes and I'll buy things if I need them don't worry. The yard sounds like it might be struggling. I actually kinda miss mowing a little. The only yard work I've done this spring was shoveling frozen dirt into wheelbarrels. That was fun. Well, another week has come and gong and I must bid you farewell. Elder Erasmus