I've been looking forward to the debates all week. Although, I don't know if I've ever been more entertained by a political debate, than by the Gore/Bush debates. Maybe they just get funnier every election year.
What's with this 32 page "rule book" anyway? It will be interesting to see how well they do having taken all the fun out of the debate. No spontaneity? No questions from the audience? No moving from the podium? Aren't we having a difficult time as it is gaining interest from the American people? I say we should reduce the number of debate sessions down to one session. One that goes as long as they can remain standing. Then in place of the other debates, a special Fear Factor between the Bushs and the Kellys. And to finish it off: a good ol' fist fight. I'd bet we'd get more watchers and voters that way.
Speaking of betting, maybe a poker tourney in the oval office...
Thursday, September 30, 2004
Wednesday, September 29, 2004
This from an editorial by John Hughes, Chief Editor of the Deseret News in today's paper:
'Kerry has been a practiced debater since prep school but comes across as wordy and pedantic. The London "Economist" calls him "damnably boring." The "Wall Street Journal" says his "meandering verbosity" is an "unclear, indirect style that sometimes makes it hard for (him) to connect with audiences and leaves his words open to parsing and ridicule." Bush has his own mangled confrontations with the English language. He cannot get his tongue properly around the word "nuclear." He's talked about "Grecians" instead of Greeks, and of "cocoa" production in Columbia instead of coca, and of "inebriating" when he meant exhilarating. But he pokes fun in an engaging way about his own "Bushisms," and he brought the house down at a Gridiron Club dinner in Washington when, after joking about his stumbles, he thanked reporters for their "horspitality." Bush is also no novice in debating, having out-pointed rivals when running for office in Texas, and been rated by audiences as more likable in his presidential debates with the sighing, eye-rolling Al Gore.'
After the Nixon/Kennedy debates in 1960, there were no presidential debates again until 1976. Don't miss the first of the three matches tomorrow night. It promises to be very entertaining.
'Kerry has been a practiced debater since prep school but comes across as wordy and pedantic. The London "Economist" calls him "damnably boring." The "Wall Street Journal" says his "meandering verbosity" is an "unclear, indirect style that sometimes makes it hard for (him) to connect with audiences and leaves his words open to parsing and ridicule." Bush has his own mangled confrontations with the English language. He cannot get his tongue properly around the word "nuclear." He's talked about "Grecians" instead of Greeks, and of "cocoa" production in Columbia instead of coca, and of "inebriating" when he meant exhilarating. But he pokes fun in an engaging way about his own "Bushisms," and he brought the house down at a Gridiron Club dinner in Washington when, after joking about his stumbles, he thanked reporters for their "horspitality." Bush is also no novice in debating, having out-pointed rivals when running for office in Texas, and been rated by audiences as more likable in his presidential debates with the sighing, eye-rolling Al Gore.'
After the Nixon/Kennedy debates in 1960, there were no presidential debates again until 1976. Don't miss the first of the three matches tomorrow night. It promises to be very entertaining.
Tuesday, September 28, 2004
Wednesday, September 22, 2004
Neither have I become desensitized. I often listen to talk radio at night on and off because I don't sleep so well. Last night in a hotel room, I listened as the talk show host played the audio of a recent beheading of an American. I was sickened by what I heard and have been upset by it all day.
I think being sickened and saddened by the barbarity and wickedness of some of our brothers in Iraq is better than being angry, for anger is the emotion they are most trying to elicit. I agree with Kate; it is nigh to impossible for us to go after them. Our situation is similar to that faced by the Nephites and Lamanites with the Gadianton robbers. In one instance, it was the Lamanites who hunted them and preached the word of God to them until they were utterly destroyed from among them (Helaman 6: 37). It was only by persuasion, love and the word of God, or righteous living that neutralized wickedness. It is no different today. We must defend in righteousness, as Captain Moroni and his armies did. I often wonder how righteous our defense (and offense) is today.
On a lighter note, a friend forwarded this to me recently. I suspect it is an internet legend circulating in cyberspace, but it was a fun read anyway:
'As some of you may know, one of my sons serves in the military. He is still stateside, here in California. He called me yesterday to let me know how warm and welcoming people were to him, and his troops, everywhere he goes, telling me how people shake their hands, and thank them for being willing to serve, and fight, for not only our own freedoms but so that others may have them also. But he also told me about an incident in the grocery store he stopped at yesterday on his way home from the base. He said that ahead of several people in front of him stood a woman dressed in a burkha. He said when she got to the cashier she loudly remarked about the US flag lapel pin the cashier wore on her smock. The cashier reached up and touched the pin, and said proudly, "yes, I always wear it and I probably always will." The woman in the burkha then asked the cashier when she was going to stop bombing her countrymen, explaining that she was Iraqi. A gentleman standing behind my son stepped forward, putting his arm around my son's shoulders, and nodding towards my son, said in a calm and gentle voice to the Iraqi woman: "Lady, hundreds of thousands of men and women like this young man have fought and died so that YOU could stand here, in MY country and accuse a check-out cashier of bombing YOUR countrymen. It is my belief that had you been t his outspoken in YOUR own country, we wouldn't need to be there today. But, hey, if you have now learned how to speak out so loudly and clearly, I'll gladly buy you a ticket and pay your way back to Iraq so you can straighten out the mess in YOUR country that you are obviously here in MY country to avoid." Everyone within hearing distance cheered.'
I think being sickened and saddened by the barbarity and wickedness of some of our brothers in Iraq is better than being angry, for anger is the emotion they are most trying to elicit. I agree with Kate; it is nigh to impossible for us to go after them. Our situation is similar to that faced by the Nephites and Lamanites with the Gadianton robbers. In one instance, it was the Lamanites who hunted them and preached the word of God to them until they were utterly destroyed from among them (Helaman 6: 37). It was only by persuasion, love and the word of God, or righteous living that neutralized wickedness. It is no different today. We must defend in righteousness, as Captain Moroni and his armies did. I often wonder how righteous our defense (and offense) is today.
On a lighter note, a friend forwarded this to me recently. I suspect it is an internet legend circulating in cyberspace, but it was a fun read anyway:
'As some of you may know, one of my sons serves in the military. He is still stateside, here in California. He called me yesterday to let me know how warm and welcoming people were to him, and his troops, everywhere he goes, telling me how people shake their hands, and thank them for being willing to serve, and fight, for not only our own freedoms but so that others may have them also. But he also told me about an incident in the grocery store he stopped at yesterday on his way home from the base. He said that ahead of several people in front of him stood a woman dressed in a burkha. He said when she got to the cashier she loudly remarked about the US flag lapel pin the cashier wore on her smock. The cashier reached up and touched the pin, and said proudly, "yes, I always wear it and I probably always will." The woman in the burkha then asked the cashier when she was going to stop bombing her countrymen, explaining that she was Iraqi. A gentleman standing behind my son stepped forward, putting his arm around my son's shoulders, and nodding towards my son, said in a calm and gentle voice to the Iraqi woman: "Lady, hundreds of thousands of men and women like this young man have fought and died so that YOU could stand here, in MY country and accuse a check-out cashier of bombing YOUR countrymen. It is my belief that had you been t his outspoken in YOUR own country, we wouldn't need to be there today. But, hey, if you have now learned how to speak out so loudly and clearly, I'll gladly buy you a ticket and pay your way back to Iraq so you can straighten out the mess in YOUR country that you are obviously here in MY country to avoid." Everyone within hearing distance cheered.'
Sunday, September 05, 2004
There is nothing like home sweet home. Doug and I are very grateful to be home after escaping being held hostage by hurricane Frances. We had a wonderful vacation in Orlando with the girls. They were delightful to spend time with and had a great time at the theme parks. We really played hard the whole time. We knew the hurricane was coming, but we were scheduled to fly out on Fiday the 3rd, and the storm wouldn't be there until late Saturday. When we found out Thursday night that the Airports were closing on Friday, feelings of panic, frustration, anger and discouragement welled up within me. Why would the airports close when the weather was perfectly fine?? We had called earlier in the week to get an earlier flight home, but nothing was available then. We decided to kneel and say family prayer before Doug took off for the airport Thursday night to see what he could work out. When he returned, we had little hope of coming home any sooner than Tuesday of this next week. Nothing. So, we prepared to hunker down and witness our first hurricane. We reserved a hotel room for several more nights, and went to the grocery store for supplies and food. Everything in Orlando was closed down, all the malls, most restraunts and grocery stores were closing early on Friday, so we needed to be prepared. We were trying to think of anyway we could to get home. We thought of driving out of there on Thursday, but the roads out of town were gridlock, and little gas was to be found, so that didn't seem like a possibility. We played it cool on Friday, hung out at the pool, relaxed and tried not to be too discouraged - the girls were pretty much unaffected by the whole thing, they were having fun. I was missing my little boys like crazy, and hated having to arrange extra help when I was dying to be there with them. Firday evening as we were driving back from dinner ( we found a place open) we were listening to the radio, and heard that the roads were all clear, but there was little gas to be found. We started entertaining the idea of getting out of there. When we got back to the hotel room, we checked with the rental car company to see if we could drive to Atlanta- that worked out. We called Atlanta to see if there were any flights to Salt Lake Sat. morning- there were several so we booked one. We hit the road Friday night around 8:30 to make the 8-10 hour trek to Atlanta. We made it in about 8 hours, 4:30 a.m.- so we checked into a hotel and got a couple hours of sleep so we could make the 8:20 a.m. flight to Salt Lake. When we got to Atlanta, they told us that we were smart to drive out of there because they were already cancelling flights up until Thursday of next week, because it is such a slow moving storm. So, who knows when we would have made it home - especially after all the flooding and damages of the storm. When we boarded the plane headed for Salt Lake it felt too good to be true. It was another testimony to me of how our prayers are answered, but usually not in the way we expect them to be. It was a sweet reunion to see my two boys again. A huge thanks to Ed, Val, and Lizzy for stepping in. The house was beautiful, and my little ones were well taken care of. I have the greatest family in the world. My sweet sisters in law were such a big help as well, and Kathy had a cute sign and balloons to welcome us home. There is a touch of fall in the air, and it smells like back to school. I love home. I don't think I could ever get used to living in a steamy hot place like Orlando. It was fun to visit, we had a blast, but there's no place like home. I love you all. Alison
p.s. When we went to church in Orlando, the bishop greeted us and looked so familiar to me. Turns out to be Wayne Hales. I asked him how there family is doing. Jennifer lives there in the ward. I forgot to ask about Amy. Stacy lives in Idaho and just had her 3rd miscarriage, she has one little girl. Jada was visiting her, so I didn't get to see her. Merrilee is living in Mesa and has 3 children. It's a small world. It was fun to see him.
p.s. When we went to church in Orlando, the bishop greeted us and looked so familiar to me. Turns out to be Wayne Hales. I asked him how there family is doing. Jennifer lives there in the ward. I forgot to ask about Amy. Stacy lives in Idaho and just had her 3rd miscarriage, she has one little girl. Jada was visiting her, so I didn't get to see her. Merrilee is living in Mesa and has 3 children. It's a small world. It was fun to see him.
Wednesday, September 01, 2004
Friday, August 27, 2004
I enjoyed the article Jerry. Very interesting. I read it with great interest because your first born seems to be having issues with his stomach these days. I also enjoyed reading about your walks. That sounds lovely. Before the twins, I walked along there with Eddie (in a stroller) a couple of times. Those are some pretty steep hills. Good for you!
I've noticed hints of fall as well. Last Saturday Sam and I went for a bike ride. It was a single track on a pioneer trail near Little Dell resevoir. The air was cool, the flowers were beautiful, it was a blast! We've since wondered why we usually pick going to the movies over this. So we are going to try to make it a standing appointment, to do something outside once a week.
I was determined to keep this vow and suggested we go "hike" to Donut Falls for family night.
We put on our jackets (it was lightly raining) and set out. Ada wasn't feeling too well.
Earlier that day Jackie got to the kid vitamins and learned how to press down and twist. I was downstairs at the time. Sometime afterwards he came down stairs as chipper as can be. He walked past me with a smile on his face. I noticed that he smelled like grape. "What are you eating?" I asked. "Bite-amins!" He replied with great pride, and opened his mouth revealing the gritty remains. Of course I panicked, which I'm sure is quite rewarding to observe as a child. "Oh no no no no, that's bad for you Jackie!" And I bolted up the stairs.
Looking frantically this way and that for the bottle, I see Ada. She's plopped down in front of the TV watching something on PBS. She's got the giant bottle nestled in her lap. Without taking her eyes of the television and without stopping to swallow her last pill, she pops another vitamin into her mouth like it's popcorn. I snatched the bottle and began to explain why she shouldn't eat these like candy. I'm sure it all sounded like high pitched rambling to her. If you've heard my bird do it, you know what I'm talking about.
So fast forward to family night. We're at the trailhead. It's lightly drizzling and so everything smells wonderful. Ada is slower than everyone anyway and is really struggling over the rocks. That doesn't surprise me so much and usually she's pretty patient with herself. Not on this hike however. She complained EVERY step of the way. Step, moan. Step "Hold Me". Step grumble. Step, whine. A couple of times I carried her so that I could catch up to the boys and she complained when I carried her. I decided that I would not have a child who didn't enjoy this sort of thing. Not only would she have to walk the rest of the way, but I decided I would bring her back later in the week and every week until she toughened up a bit. About 2/3 of the way there, I looked back and noticed that she was doubled over, clutching here tummy. "Owwww, my stomach!" she said.
And then I remembered the vitamins. She looked pale and sick. I realized why she was complaining so much and then the guilt sank in. I carried her and trying to show more compassion (the complaining was hard to bear). We made it to the falls just in time to turn around and head home. Ada claimed to have fun in spite of it all. The boys had a blast. Jack probably traveled twice the distance because he liked to rush ahead of the group. Then he had to run back and check on Ada often to make sure she was okay and still with us. It's sweet how often they think of eachother.
That's how the week started. It's been ladled with doctor's appointments, dentist appointments and other errands. All in all, it's a good life. Each day as I kiss them while they sleep, I realize that my children are my joy and sunshine.
It's fun to have Katie here. She's so fun to hang out with, I miss her often.
I've noticed hints of fall as well. Last Saturday Sam and I went for a bike ride. It was a single track on a pioneer trail near Little Dell resevoir. The air was cool, the flowers were beautiful, it was a blast! We've since wondered why we usually pick going to the movies over this. So we are going to try to make it a standing appointment, to do something outside once a week.
I was determined to keep this vow and suggested we go "hike" to Donut Falls for family night.
We put on our jackets (it was lightly raining) and set out. Ada wasn't feeling too well.
Earlier that day Jackie got to the kid vitamins and learned how to press down and twist. I was downstairs at the time. Sometime afterwards he came down stairs as chipper as can be. He walked past me with a smile on his face. I noticed that he smelled like grape. "What are you eating?" I asked. "Bite-amins!" He replied with great pride, and opened his mouth revealing the gritty remains. Of course I panicked, which I'm sure is quite rewarding to observe as a child. "Oh no no no no, that's bad for you Jackie!" And I bolted up the stairs.
Looking frantically this way and that for the bottle, I see Ada. She's plopped down in front of the TV watching something on PBS. She's got the giant bottle nestled in her lap. Without taking her eyes of the television and without stopping to swallow her last pill, she pops another vitamin into her mouth like it's popcorn. I snatched the bottle and began to explain why she shouldn't eat these like candy. I'm sure it all sounded like high pitched rambling to her. If you've heard my bird do it, you know what I'm talking about.
So fast forward to family night. We're at the trailhead. It's lightly drizzling and so everything smells wonderful. Ada is slower than everyone anyway and is really struggling over the rocks. That doesn't surprise me so much and usually she's pretty patient with herself. Not on this hike however. She complained EVERY step of the way. Step, moan. Step "Hold Me". Step grumble. Step, whine. A couple of times I carried her so that I could catch up to the boys and she complained when I carried her. I decided that I would not have a child who didn't enjoy this sort of thing. Not only would she have to walk the rest of the way, but I decided I would bring her back later in the week and every week until she toughened up a bit. About 2/3 of the way there, I looked back and noticed that she was doubled over, clutching here tummy. "Owwww, my stomach!" she said.
And then I remembered the vitamins. She looked pale and sick. I realized why she was complaining so much and then the guilt sank in. I carried her and trying to show more compassion (the complaining was hard to bear). We made it to the falls just in time to turn around and head home. Ada claimed to have fun in spite of it all. The boys had a blast. Jack probably traveled twice the distance because he liked to rush ahead of the group. Then he had to run back and check on Ada often to make sure she was okay and still with us. It's sweet how often they think of eachother.
That's how the week started. It's been ladled with doctor's appointments, dentist appointments and other errands. All in all, it's a good life. Each day as I kiss them while they sleep, I realize that my children are my joy and sunshine.
It's fun to have Katie here. She's so fun to hang out with, I miss her often.
Thursday, August 26, 2004
Click on the link below to read this highly entertaining article about peptic ulcers. As I read, it brought back from my childhood the infamous Sippy diet, chalky peppermint antacids, even licorice bark chewed for healing. My mother used to threaten that I would be subject to the dreaded surgery if I didn't follow Sippy and had another bleeding episode. I'd like to claim affinity with personality #3, but I think I was closer to the far less flattering #1.
Enjoy.
http://www.newcriterion.com/archive/22/sum04/daniels.htm
Enjoy.
http://www.newcriterion.com/archive/22/sum04/daniels.htm
In the last couple of weeks I've taken to walking the Bonneville Shoreline Trail from Parley's Canyon to Foothill. It takes me about an hour with a couple of good hills, which seems reasonable. The last few days here, we've had cool days (60's and low 70's) and cooler nights (high 40's already). While walking today I noticed a few scrub oaks on Mount Olympus are already beginning to don their brief fall brilliance. It's August! Reminds me more of my days in Western Canada.
Today I also noticed a taggers spray painted attempt at offense on a concrete wall: "Mormans suck." Worth a chuckle.
Today I also noticed a taggers spray painted attempt at offense on a concrete wall: "Mormans suck." Worth a chuckle.
Monday, August 09, 2004
8/6/04
Dear Family:
Mom, thank you so much for the packages you keep sending me. I love getting those surprises! Those grapefruit candies are especially delicious!
I'm skipping gym right now so I can write. Would you please tell Melissa for me that I am thankful for the letters she writes. I feel bad that I can't write her back, but I really do not have the time.
I really like my black suit; it's holding up just fine. There are three words that accurately describe the quality and condition of my green suit! PIECE OF CRAP!! Both pairs of pants are ripped! Already!! It's ridiculous! So, I took 'em into the place to get sewed.
I can't believe I'm outta here on Wednesday. Oh, I'll be calling from Chicago at...around 1:30 p.m. If you talk to Kate, tell her I'll be there. I write her, but I don't know if she got it.
Joe sounds like he's having a fun summer. Did he take my paintball gun?? He better not have. If you could Mom, please keep him outta that box. Now that I don't have music, I realized how much I love it. So I want it to be there when I get home. OK?
Thank you for sending the pictures. It was funny, when I opened my package,(he names a bunch of Elders) their eyes caught hold of Alison, and Elder Stucky said, "Dang! who is that?" in all seriousness. He really wanted to know!
"That's my sister," I said blandly.
"How old is she?" He said. By this time he and Elder Roberts are transfixed with the picture. Really, I'm not exaggerating.
"She's about twenty-five I think, and her family of four happens to be in the picture."
No more questions after that! Ali should be complimented. I think it's saying something when a bunch of 19 year old kids are curiously asking questions and saying the word, "Dang!"
Mindy's cinnamon rolls weren't so good. But don't tell her that! I told her I loved im'. I enjoyed the nice little letter she wrote a lot more. We'll put it that way. Talk about a surprise! I wouldn't have expected a letter from her in a million years! Anyway.
It's weird. I wanna cut my hair for the first time ever in my whole life. I want a hair cut! I never thought that would happen.
I guess you could say I'm a little burned out in the classrom. I know, I know, it's the first two weeks of a two year deal, but the only break I get from the classroom is to eat. So it's getting old. I'm excited to be heading out.
(He goes on to name guys in a photo he sent and say where they are from.)
I'll tell you what, I think I am guaranteed to end up with Romeo as my comp after a year out there. It's destiny, I know it. I'm really gonna have to bite my tongue to keep from arguing with that goof. I'll send a pic of him too. Really, he's more opinionated than I am, so we're bound to argue constantly. He's from Texas. It was funny, they say that the spirit world after death is here on earth, and we were disscussing it in class one day, and someone said, " I wonder where spirit prison is," and I said the first thing that came to mind. Texas. They all loved it, but Romeo. We are constantly arguing about states. I could write all day about it, so I'll just have to stop now.
Well, I love you all and hope all is well.
David
Dear Family:
Mom, thank you so much for the packages you keep sending me. I love getting those surprises! Those grapefruit candies are especially delicious!
I'm skipping gym right now so I can write. Would you please tell Melissa for me that I am thankful for the letters she writes. I feel bad that I can't write her back, but I really do not have the time.
I really like my black suit; it's holding up just fine. There are three words that accurately describe the quality and condition of my green suit! PIECE OF CRAP!! Both pairs of pants are ripped! Already!! It's ridiculous! So, I took 'em into the place to get sewed.
I can't believe I'm outta here on Wednesday. Oh, I'll be calling from Chicago at...around 1:30 p.m. If you talk to Kate, tell her I'll be there. I write her, but I don't know if she got it.
Joe sounds like he's having a fun summer. Did he take my paintball gun?? He better not have. If you could Mom, please keep him outta that box. Now that I don't have music, I realized how much I love it. So I want it to be there when I get home. OK?
Thank you for sending the pictures. It was funny, when I opened my package,(he names a bunch of Elders) their eyes caught hold of Alison, and Elder Stucky said, "Dang! who is that?" in all seriousness. He really wanted to know!
"That's my sister," I said blandly.
"How old is she?" He said. By this time he and Elder Roberts are transfixed with the picture. Really, I'm not exaggerating.
"She's about twenty-five I think, and her family of four happens to be in the picture."
No more questions after that! Ali should be complimented. I think it's saying something when a bunch of 19 year old kids are curiously asking questions and saying the word, "Dang!"
Mindy's cinnamon rolls weren't so good. But don't tell her that! I told her I loved im'. I enjoyed the nice little letter she wrote a lot more. We'll put it that way. Talk about a surprise! I wouldn't have expected a letter from her in a million years! Anyway.
It's weird. I wanna cut my hair for the first time ever in my whole life. I want a hair cut! I never thought that would happen.
I guess you could say I'm a little burned out in the classrom. I know, I know, it's the first two weeks of a two year deal, but the only break I get from the classroom is to eat. So it's getting old. I'm excited to be heading out.
(He goes on to name guys in a photo he sent and say where they are from.)
I'll tell you what, I think I am guaranteed to end up with Romeo as my comp after a year out there. It's destiny, I know it. I'm really gonna have to bite my tongue to keep from arguing with that goof. I'll send a pic of him too. Really, he's more opinionated than I am, so we're bound to argue constantly. He's from Texas. It was funny, they say that the spirit world after death is here on earth, and we were disscussing it in class one day, and someone said, " I wonder where spirit prison is," and I said the first thing that came to mind. Texas. They all loved it, but Romeo. We are constantly arguing about states. I could write all day about it, so I'll just have to stop now.
Well, I love you all and hope all is well.
David
New Address:
Elder David Clark Carter
Canada Toronto West Mission
197 County Court Blvd. #203
Brampton, Ontario L6W 4P6
postage may be extra
Dear Family: 8-4-04
Dad, I just got your letter. I really enjoyed what you had to say. I'm outta here on the 11th, and I'm getting laid over in Chicago at O'Hare, so maybe I could rendevous with Katie. That would be fun.
Boy, what would I give to be playing poker!! That practically killed me when I read that! I forgot all about poker! No better feeling than taking one on a bluff. And I'd forgot all about it. So thanks dad! Dad, I doubt you"ll get called to the Quorum of the Twelve, but the 70 is a real possibility! How would that be! I read Alma 26 today after I got your letter. That's an awesome chapter. I love before it, when Ammon converts king Lamoni. Ammons willingness to serve really sticks out to me in that one. There is much to be learned from that.
So what's happening in the outside world? Iraq? Bush? Politics? Forest Fires? It was all smokey down here one morning; I didn't hear a thing. Terrorists could invade Salt Lake, and they wouldn't tell us about it.
The bathrooms here continue to disgust me. I decided to shower tonight to avoid all the disgusting people you see in the morning (for I lilke to start my day on a positive note, as you probably know) so I turned on the water, and to my surprise, thousands of tiny little mites, flies, fleas, bugs, whatever you call em, come pouring out of the drain! No joke, thousands! And we all know what kind of stuff goes into those drains. It's a shower for petes-sake! So that thoroughly grossed me out!
Nothing really new here. I wish I had some ritalin. I can't focus for the life of me. So I'm having minor struggles with picking up some of the stuff. And I'm not sleeping well either. I know this ain't nothing to what lies ahead.
I had to pay for a seventy-five dollar shot today! What a rip! And it wasn't from Merck. It was from Smith Klien or whatever. I was telling the lady that you were a Merck dude and I wouldn't support the other guy. She thought it was funny, But dad, if you could get them to buy your drug (it was for Hep) you would make bank. She said they give 10,000 shots down here a month or something. BANK! So look into that.
I tell you, the other day I was thinking how long two years is. It's forever! I got a letter from Brad. It made me good and homesick for awhile. It'll get worse too. So I'm, scared for the future.
Tell me how everything is going down there. What's Joe up to, what's going on? How is Lar Lar? I wanna hear. I love you guys so much. More than I ever knew.
Love, Dave
Elder David Clark Carter
Canada Toronto West Mission
197 County Court Blvd. #203
Brampton, Ontario L6W 4P6
postage may be extra
Dear Family: 8-4-04
Dad, I just got your letter. I really enjoyed what you had to say. I'm outta here on the 11th, and I'm getting laid over in Chicago at O'Hare, so maybe I could rendevous with Katie. That would be fun.
Boy, what would I give to be playing poker!! That practically killed me when I read that! I forgot all about poker! No better feeling than taking one on a bluff. And I'd forgot all about it. So thanks dad! Dad, I doubt you"ll get called to the Quorum of the Twelve, but the 70 is a real possibility! How would that be! I read Alma 26 today after I got your letter. That's an awesome chapter. I love before it, when Ammon converts king Lamoni. Ammons willingness to serve really sticks out to me in that one. There is much to be learned from that.
So what's happening in the outside world? Iraq? Bush? Politics? Forest Fires? It was all smokey down here one morning; I didn't hear a thing. Terrorists could invade Salt Lake, and they wouldn't tell us about it.
The bathrooms here continue to disgust me. I decided to shower tonight to avoid all the disgusting people you see in the morning (for I lilke to start my day on a positive note, as you probably know) so I turned on the water, and to my surprise, thousands of tiny little mites, flies, fleas, bugs, whatever you call em, come pouring out of the drain! No joke, thousands! And we all know what kind of stuff goes into those drains. It's a shower for petes-sake! So that thoroughly grossed me out!
Nothing really new here. I wish I had some ritalin. I can't focus for the life of me. So I'm having minor struggles with picking up some of the stuff. And I'm not sleeping well either. I know this ain't nothing to what lies ahead.
I had to pay for a seventy-five dollar shot today! What a rip! And it wasn't from Merck. It was from Smith Klien or whatever. I was telling the lady that you were a Merck dude and I wouldn't support the other guy. She thought it was funny, But dad, if you could get them to buy your drug (it was for Hep) you would make bank. She said they give 10,000 shots down here a month or something. BANK! So look into that.
I tell you, the other day I was thinking how long two years is. It's forever! I got a letter from Brad. It made me good and homesick for awhile. It'll get worse too. So I'm, scared for the future.
Tell me how everything is going down there. What's Joe up to, what's going on? How is Lar Lar? I wanna hear. I love you guys so much. More than I ever knew.
Love, Dave
Tuesday, August 03, 2004
This is a letter that David sent last week.
Hey Family-
How are things going at home. Dad, I got your letter; thank you for all the encouragement. I appreciate it, and keep your chin up, for it's just two years.
Joe, you better get used to showerig naked, and in front of people, or else you'll hate the MTC. There are no secrets here! The other night some fat, really fat, hairy, really hairy guy used my towel after his shower! He dried himself off with it very thoroughly, if you know what I mean. Boy, I was mad!
But I love it here. My district is so awesome! All the dudes are the kind of dudes that I would have hung out with at school. They are hilarious, and they love hearing "Eldrito" (me) stories. So I'm having a blast. Really, the only time I'm not enjoying myself is when I'm sleeping, which hasn't been going well lately. I wasn't planning on coming down here and seeing my testimony grow as it has.
I had the coolest experience the other day....There is a place here called the "Refferal Center," and it's basically the place where nonmembers call to get a free book of Mormon, or what not. Either they call here, or we call follow-ups to make sure that they got their order, and if they did, to see if they read it, and if they read it, than we chat.
So I called this one girl named, well actually I called for a guy, and I forgot his name, but his wife Teresea answered the phone. They are from Tempe Arizona. I got to talking to this girl about religion, and it went like this, "So did you get your book of Mormon," I asked after introducing myself. "Yeah, I got it," she said, kids screaming in the background. I got excited. "Did you read it?" "No," she said laughing, "I haven't had the time." She went on to tell me the problems she had with our church. I talked with her for awhile, and I got on her good side. I got her to laugh. In the meantime, my whole district is huddled around my booth listening to the conversation. So I said, after bearing my testimony of the truthfulness of the book, "Could you go get your book of Mormon, I'd just like to share something with you before I go?" She said yes, and I waited for a few minutes, my district still spectating. "Ok," said I, when she got back on the phone, "turn to page 529. That is where Moroni's promise is. "Ok, could you read for me, from chapter 10, verses 3 through 5?" So she read em' and when she was done I went on to explain the verses, and the Spirit of Christ, and how it all works, and she says, "Oh, I know about the spirit." "You do!!" I said, wondering what she thought it was. By this time, I knew she was a pretty religious person, but I was still surprised to hear she knew what it was. "Yea, I've felt the spirit before," she paused, and I just listened, and she struggled for a minute. "But I've never felt it as strong as I am now."
Now, as you can imagine, I was absolutely stunned. I said, "There's a lot more where that came from in the Book of Mormon, and if you read it looking for God, I promise you'll find him."
So anyway, I got her to commit to me that she's read the book, and it was really cool. When the conversation was over, my legs were trembling!! It was awesome. The spirit was so strong, all my buddies from my district said they could all feel it. They were all hugging me and stuff, it was a choice experience. So remember Teresea, from Tempe AZ in your prayers, cause with a little luck she'll be our newest member.
So as you can see, I love it here, and have already had the opportunity to spread the word. That made me so excited to head to Canada!
The discussions are comig fine. Piglet told me the first two days he wanted to shoot himself. It hasn't been like that at all. Part of me wishes I could stay here, but not really.
Dad, for mutual, take the boys down to the referral center, for anyone can do it. You don't have to be a missionary. Seriously, it's a testimony building experience.
Well, I hope everything is going good. Again, Thanks for the letters, and keep em' coming. Mom, right now I'm listening to your favorite song, the one that says, "take my heart..." the Mo-Tab song. But I love you and miss your sweet affection. Joe, take advantage of it while you still can!!!
Love, Dave
Hey Family-
How are things going at home. Dad, I got your letter; thank you for all the encouragement. I appreciate it, and keep your chin up, for it's just two years.
Joe, you better get used to showerig naked, and in front of people, or else you'll hate the MTC. There are no secrets here! The other night some fat, really fat, hairy, really hairy guy used my towel after his shower! He dried himself off with it very thoroughly, if you know what I mean. Boy, I was mad!
But I love it here. My district is so awesome! All the dudes are the kind of dudes that I would have hung out with at school. They are hilarious, and they love hearing "Eldrito" (me) stories. So I'm having a blast. Really, the only time I'm not enjoying myself is when I'm sleeping, which hasn't been going well lately. I wasn't planning on coming down here and seeing my testimony grow as it has.
I had the coolest experience the other day....There is a place here called the "Refferal Center," and it's basically the place where nonmembers call to get a free book of Mormon, or what not. Either they call here, or we call follow-ups to make sure that they got their order, and if they did, to see if they read it, and if they read it, than we chat.
So I called this one girl named, well actually I called for a guy, and I forgot his name, but his wife Teresea answered the phone. They are from Tempe Arizona. I got to talking to this girl about religion, and it went like this, "So did you get your book of Mormon," I asked after introducing myself. "Yeah, I got it," she said, kids screaming in the background. I got excited. "Did you read it?" "No," she said laughing, "I haven't had the time." She went on to tell me the problems she had with our church. I talked with her for awhile, and I got on her good side. I got her to laugh. In the meantime, my whole district is huddled around my booth listening to the conversation. So I said, after bearing my testimony of the truthfulness of the book, "Could you go get your book of Mormon, I'd just like to share something with you before I go?" She said yes, and I waited for a few minutes, my district still spectating. "Ok," said I, when she got back on the phone, "turn to page 529. That is where Moroni's promise is. "Ok, could you read for me, from chapter 10, verses 3 through 5?" So she read em' and when she was done I went on to explain the verses, and the Spirit of Christ, and how it all works, and she says, "Oh, I know about the spirit." "You do!!" I said, wondering what she thought it was. By this time, I knew she was a pretty religious person, but I was still surprised to hear she knew what it was. "Yea, I've felt the spirit before," she paused, and I just listened, and she struggled for a minute. "But I've never felt it as strong as I am now."
Now, as you can imagine, I was absolutely stunned. I said, "There's a lot more where that came from in the Book of Mormon, and if you read it looking for God, I promise you'll find him."
So anyway, I got her to commit to me that she's read the book, and it was really cool. When the conversation was over, my legs were trembling!! It was awesome. The spirit was so strong, all my buddies from my district said they could all feel it. They were all hugging me and stuff, it was a choice experience. So remember Teresea, from Tempe AZ in your prayers, cause with a little luck she'll be our newest member.
So as you can see, I love it here, and have already had the opportunity to spread the word. That made me so excited to head to Canada!
The discussions are comig fine. Piglet told me the first two days he wanted to shoot himself. It hasn't been like that at all. Part of me wishes I could stay here, but not really.
Dad, for mutual, take the boys down to the referral center, for anyone can do it. You don't have to be a missionary. Seriously, it's a testimony building experience.
Well, I hope everything is going good. Again, Thanks for the letters, and keep em' coming. Mom, right now I'm listening to your favorite song, the one that says, "take my heart..." the Mo-Tab song. But I love you and miss your sweet affection. Joe, take advantage of it while you still can!!!
Love, Dave
Monday, August 02, 2004
7/30/04
Dear Mom and Fam--
Hey! Sounds like life just goes on around there, and that's good to hear. Mom, thank you for that package! You surprised me with it. You don't seem like the package type. The fudge is delicious. My district is loving it, though some refuse to try it.
There are quite a few people in my district. (then he goes on to name 12 guys) and last but not least our roommates, who are really starting to get on my nerves. My two roommates are the only two that would be a struggle for me to get along with. Both are lacking in personality.
There is this one named Elder Wiseman, and I can honestly say I've never met a more unique person. The kid, on the first day, said that he writes Shakespearean sonnets, and that he wins money and competitions all the tiime, and actually went further and compared himself to Shakespeare, calling himself better!! He's nuts. He's one of those drama types, I'm sure you are familiar with em', for dad is one! Just kidding, this kid is incredible.
When we are in class, and he gets asked to read a passage of scripture, he reads it like he's in Hamlet or something. We call him Romeo. He told me that he has ten girls from home writing him. They love him because he's sensitive, and can talk to em'. I'm starting to wonder about this kid, I truly am. He's from Texas.
Yes, I am taking pictures. They are getting developed right now, actually, so I'll send you a few when they are done.
Yea, my friends are writing me. Annie sent me cookies yesterday, so I'm getting plenty of friend support. I love getting mail. It's like a birthday every day.
Thanks for the pictures. It was fun to show my buddies a picture of me with curly hair. They were amazed. They hadn't seen my passport pic, and it's longer in that one. I miss that hair. I am also thankful for the picture of Mindy! That girl is one fine creation!
Well, I have the first two discussions down, and the second came really fast for some reason. We taught it last night, and did really well, so we moved on to the third, while the rest of my district is working on the second. For some reason, I can teach the principles in that one better. The main principle is faith, and my talk was on faith, so I was well prepared.
I'm halfway done with my MTC experience. I"m happy to be heading out, but very nervous also. Oh well, you got to do what ya got to do, right?
Tell Loo Loo not to junk my room, and tell her that I love her.
Since when could sisser draw so well?? That baby picture is amazing! Keep em' coming sisser.
I'm skipping gym to write this letter. I am so freaking busy. I'm not sleeping so hot, either. Last night I had a dream that my mission was over and I came home. I was like, "That was the fastest two years of my life!" Then I woke up to reality, and stepped into a cold shower, sandwiched in between two naked, ugly dudes. That's my life at the moment. It's so much better than my old life though, although I do miss the good ol' days. I miss a lot, but realize that I must progress.
Melissa wrote me a very nice letter, and Katie and Danny did too. They are all so great. I am so thankful for my family.
Well, I better wrap this novel up. I love you guys. Keep the prayers coming.
Love, Dave
Dear Mom and Fam--
Hey! Sounds like life just goes on around there, and that's good to hear. Mom, thank you for that package! You surprised me with it. You don't seem like the package type. The fudge is delicious. My district is loving it, though some refuse to try it.
There are quite a few people in my district. (then he goes on to name 12 guys) and last but not least our roommates, who are really starting to get on my nerves. My two roommates are the only two that would be a struggle for me to get along with. Both are lacking in personality.
There is this one named Elder Wiseman, and I can honestly say I've never met a more unique person. The kid, on the first day, said that he writes Shakespearean sonnets, and that he wins money and competitions all the tiime, and actually went further and compared himself to Shakespeare, calling himself better!! He's nuts. He's one of those drama types, I'm sure you are familiar with em', for dad is one! Just kidding, this kid is incredible.
When we are in class, and he gets asked to read a passage of scripture, he reads it like he's in Hamlet or something. We call him Romeo. He told me that he has ten girls from home writing him. They love him because he's sensitive, and can talk to em'. I'm starting to wonder about this kid, I truly am. He's from Texas.
Yes, I am taking pictures. They are getting developed right now, actually, so I'll send you a few when they are done.
Yea, my friends are writing me. Annie sent me cookies yesterday, so I'm getting plenty of friend support. I love getting mail. It's like a birthday every day.
Thanks for the pictures. It was fun to show my buddies a picture of me with curly hair. They were amazed. They hadn't seen my passport pic, and it's longer in that one. I miss that hair. I am also thankful for the picture of Mindy! That girl is one fine creation!
Well, I have the first two discussions down, and the second came really fast for some reason. We taught it last night, and did really well, so we moved on to the third, while the rest of my district is working on the second. For some reason, I can teach the principles in that one better. The main principle is faith, and my talk was on faith, so I was well prepared.
I'm halfway done with my MTC experience. I"m happy to be heading out, but very nervous also. Oh well, you got to do what ya got to do, right?
Tell Loo Loo not to junk my room, and tell her that I love her.
Since when could sisser draw so well?? That baby picture is amazing! Keep em' coming sisser.
I'm skipping gym to write this letter. I am so freaking busy. I'm not sleeping so hot, either. Last night I had a dream that my mission was over and I came home. I was like, "That was the fastest two years of my life!" Then I woke up to reality, and stepped into a cold shower, sandwiched in between two naked, ugly dudes. That's my life at the moment. It's so much better than my old life though, although I do miss the good ol' days. I miss a lot, but realize that I must progress.
Melissa wrote me a very nice letter, and Katie and Danny did too. They are all so great. I am so thankful for my family.
Well, I better wrap this novel up. I love you guys. Keep the prayers coming.
Love, Dave
Thursday, July 15, 2004
Thursday, July 01, 2004
Sunday, June 27, 2004
Dear Ones,
Glad that you all had a nice time and that the lake didn't claim any of you. Thanks for the pictures, Gerald. It is so great to see them. My little Jack surely is the picture of his brother Eddie. I still think they should have named it bare lake. The surroundings seem so bare.
This is for Katie. Why don't you come to Japan with me? By now we would be on the waiting list, but we don't have to have all the money in until July 31st. If you decide that you want to, send me the pertinant information---name, address, b/date, phone# etc. and I'll send in the deposit with mine. You'll need to apply for a passport also. I have to also as mine as expired. That would be so much fun to have you go with me. The dates again are Sept.30th returning Oct 6th. Let me know soon, OK? Love to all, Grama
Glad that you all had a nice time and that the lake didn't claim any of you. Thanks for the pictures, Gerald. It is so great to see them. My little Jack surely is the picture of his brother Eddie. I still think they should have named it bare lake. The surroundings seem so bare.
This is for Katie. Why don't you come to Japan with me? By now we would be on the waiting list, but we don't have to have all the money in until July 31st. If you decide that you want to, send me the pertinant information---name, address, b/date, phone# etc. and I'll send in the deposit with mine. You'll need to apply for a passport also. I have to also as mine as expired. That would be so much fun to have you go with me. The dates again are Sept.30th returning Oct 6th. Let me know soon, OK? Love to all, Grama
Friday, June 11, 2004
Thursday, June 10, 2004
A Big hello to you all!
Im in under grams idenity, I've lost mine.....literally. My purse and everything in it got left behind on my bus ride into work Monday...nice way to start the week off huh? Brings me back to just about 2 years ago when I was busy going here and there(mostly everywhere) regaining my idenity. Well, I'm at it again! But what I was mostly wanting to go on record here is that tonight was my last drunk class!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'll be heading off next week to DMV and to the court clerk with my completion papers....It was quite a long haul but I made it through. And better yet, if I keep doing what I did today(minus the drunk class) on July 3rd I'll be celebrating 2 years clean and sober. Man-oh-man am I grateful!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm happier (and fatter) than I've ever EVER been and I do want to thank you all for your love and support. There's nothing like family. I sure love mine. Thanks for the latest fishing pics boys I loved 'em! looked you you caught some nice ones! hope you're all enjoying your vacation at Bear Lake, wish I could be there. I'm looking so forward to my trip to Wyomming and Montana in late july.
There is nothing I love more than the pines. It is definately my heaven on earth. Love you guys, Mary
Im in under grams idenity, I've lost mine.....literally. My purse and everything in it got left behind on my bus ride into work Monday...nice way to start the week off huh? Brings me back to just about 2 years ago when I was busy going here and there(mostly everywhere) regaining my idenity. Well, I'm at it again! But what I was mostly wanting to go on record here is that tonight was my last drunk class!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'll be heading off next week to DMV and to the court clerk with my completion papers....It was quite a long haul but I made it through. And better yet, if I keep doing what I did today(minus the drunk class) on July 3rd I'll be celebrating 2 years clean and sober. Man-oh-man am I grateful!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm happier (and fatter) than I've ever EVER been and I do want to thank you all for your love and support. There's nothing like family. I sure love mine. Thanks for the latest fishing pics boys I loved 'em! looked you you caught some nice ones! hope you're all enjoying your vacation at Bear Lake, wish I could be there. I'm looking so forward to my trip to Wyomming and Montana in late july.
There is nothing I love more than the pines. It is definately my heaven on earth. Love you guys, Mary
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