"JUST LIKE A HEAT WAVE"

Hey Mom and Family,

Well I am still here alive which is good but it is very hot here and things are about to warm up even more.  The later part of the week the heat wave is to hit temperatures 104-108 so you chose to go return home at a good time!  

This past week has been a really good week for me!  I got to go on an exchange with one of our Zone Leaders, Elder Oppenlander in Vestavia Hills and it was great!  They are not kidding when they say Vestavia "Hills", my thighs and calves were in so much pain by the end of the day!  I think it was the most I have ever biked in my life really!  I am guessing we biked between 20-25 miles that day!

Biking around down town Birmingham reminds me a ton of Salt Lake City and how much I miss it! Another really good day last week also was finding a gentleman who we nicknamed our "Golden Investigator" as he was so open to the gospel and has invited us back without any hesitation, that was way exciting! Honestly the past week has been about the greatest since I have been here!  Yet another day this week the woman investigator I was telling you about last week came to Church with us yesterday and she absolutely loved it!  She was so full of enthusiasm said "Why wouldn't anyone want to be a part of this?" it just feels so good".  I am hoping for her baptism in the near future, it would be a perfect way to exit Alabama and if not, then just perfect in every other way.

Of course being in the “Bible Belt” we occasionally run into a few good Bible Historians that really know their stuff and challenge us like no other however, I feel I respectfully hold my own pretty well.  It is great to hear their confirmations of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, that much is solid, so we encourage them to let us continue to build on their foundation.  Some look at us like are you nuts, others just smile and appreciate our attempts.  Other than that Elder Beck and I just keep treckin’ along and searching for people who have been prepared for us to teach.

I have been reading a lot in the Bible for the past couple of weeks.  I am in The New Testament right now and I really enjoy that!  Another thing I have learned to love on my mission is reading the Ensign. There are a lot of really good talks in there!  I read the June issue this month and the talk about Abish, the servant girl in Alma was a really good talk.  As for new scriptures mom, look at  Alma chapter 34 and 2 Nephi 32 both are really good!

Other than that we have been doing a lot of service this past week!  We chopped down a tree stump on Saturday and tonight we are helping a member family move!

I did tell you that I am driving a car!  I drove on the Alabama freeway for the first time on Friday it was insane, nobody uses their blinkers!  It did make me miss driving the I-15 a ton, driving has become a luxury for me! HA I am attaching some photos of our zoo visit and the Alabama Birmingham Temple.

How is the trip going? I got the “OZ” postcard fast, I didn’t know there was a Wizard of Oz museum in Wamego, not sure where that even is in Kansas, don’t remember much but where we lived before we moved to Utah!  As for the “Milk Straws” they don’t work nice thought mom!  I am drinking lots of water too mom!

I think that is exciting that Kennedy is getting married tomorrow, if I am not mistaken!  Please do take something by for them from me and the family mom, I’m sure you already planned to do that though!  Send me some photos.

How is cheer going for Lyn’s?   Football is right around the corner for Wyatt to right?  Has he decided what he is doing?  Dad, are you still traveling a lot, anything new going on?

Well I hope ya'll are having fun in Kansas!  I miss ya'll and love ya'll

Love,
Elder Draper

ZOO YORK...NOT

Hi Everyone,

Reminder Mom, email comes later here in Birmingham B so just remember that!  I really don't get a chance to write alot I just answer emails to you, the kids, Misty, Cabree and Brelynn occasionally when they email me.  I do have to write my Mission President every week so that takes time as well.

This morning we went to the zoo! How fun is that!? I took a boat load of pictures so I will send you those next week when I have my camera cord.  We thought it'd be fun to spend the day at the zoo and it was actually a ton of fun! 

My hair is actually kind of blonde now!!! The sun has turned it blonde, crazy right??? I'll send you some pictures of that too next week, and yes I am planning on cutting my hair  today or next Monday.

I guess you didn't know that Elder Beck is a visa waiter for Brazil and he speaks Portugese and honestly it is like the ugliest language I have ever heard. Elder Tolman and I call it Porttugly which we think is way funny and Elder Beck gets a charge out of it as well. Ha Ha too funny!  My other roomates are just awesome and we will be celebrating Elder Tolman's 1 year anniversary next week.  

The new ward is really cool. A young couple just moved in from Provo and they are a pretty cool pair! We had dinner last night and the night before at Members houses it was great, burgers and corn, grilled obviously and much appreciated!

I did find out from Elder Pili a few days ago that 2 of the people that I found in Bessemer have Baptisim dates which is soo exciting! Wish I could be there to partake but all is well.

I have met some pretty neat potential investigators this week and have return appointments with all of them. There are 2 that I really have allot of hope for! Hopefully I get a baptisim in before I go to Argentina!

I am sure it is going to be a shock when I get to Argentina!  I am still speaking no Spanish and , I have to work my bum off during language study, studying!  I am sure it is going to be a little rough when I first get there, guess I learn fast.

That is exciting about Nauvoo that will be allot of fun for the family, hope Grams enjoys it as we did the first time!

Its crazy Kenn gets married in like a week!!!! You will have to forward me her announcement fer sure!!!

I can't think too much more that is all I can really think of.  I have just been riding my bike everywhere.  I did get my driving card this past week and drove for the first time in 4 months, it was the BESTEST!!!! 

I have not weighed myself in awhile because we don't have a scale but I am pretty sure I am still losing weight! But not a big deal mom a good thing.

I miss you all and love ya!  Have a good week!

Love,
Elder Draper

IRON CHEF'S IN THE HOUSE

Hey Sorry Family,

We usually email later in the day here in Birmingham so now ya know it won't be early morning !

My new address is 1067 A Villa Rica Ct, Birmingham Albama 35215 so get the letters comming.  LOL  Our apartment is way deceee, nicest place I have stayed in so far!  Yes Mom we have laundry here too!

So you heard the news, I am Senior Companion woot woo!  Ha Ha!  Elder Beck is a good Elder, fresh out of the Provo MTC, one of the newest of the BAW Argentina "Visa Waiters".  We are we are both new to this area and so the past few days Elder Beck and I have just been going around getting familiar with the area!  We are just doing our best working to find people to teach!

The computers here in the library remain as outdated as the previous ones, I can't see any of the pictures your sending. As for the ties just ask Misty she will be able to help make the choice she knows what I like.

Our other roomates are Elder Tolman from Layton, and Elder Thurston from San Diego who is also brand new to the field like Elder Beck,  Elder Tolman is about to hit his year mark next month!  Can't wait to celebrate that one!  The pictures I have attached are First Elder Pili and Elder Banks and I, they stayed in Bessemer/Hueytown. Second Elder Aaron Ingersol and I at Transfer meeting.  He went to Lone Peak High School as well and was a Senior when I was a Sophmore, small world it is.  Third - Elder Crwother and I at Transfers, he went on to Cater Hill and Fourth my new roomies Elder Beck, Me, Elder Tolman and Elder Thurston, we ROCK.  I absolutely dig Elder Tolman though!  We get along really well and he is absolutely hilarious!!!!!!!  He is also a really really good cook too!  He cooks us lot of things like Chicken Alfredo, and morning pancakes, however he only eats wheat products... so I give him alot of flack about that!  I did make chicken quesadillas for everyone the other night and they loved them, I guess I am a pretty good cook after all!  I am working out and by the end of the transfer I am going to be ripped!  Elder Tolman and I wake up every morning at 6 and work out, the kid is JACKED, he is just so cut!

I spoke in Sacrament meeting yesterday, yep!  They asked all the new Elders to speak.  I decided to talk about the Restoration hoping to to get the members excited about Missionary work!  It's so new here I don't know else to tell you, this is about all I can really think of that has happened in the past few days.  I will tell you more about the Ward as I get to know it.

I will get the postcards like you mentioned and write soon!  I am sending Dad a Fathers Day card but he can't open it till FathersDay!

Sorry it's short but gotta run mom!

Love you!!!!!

Love,
Elder Draper

DRUM ROLL PLEASE...

Transfers were held 6/6/12 this week and Elder Daper was was transferred to Birmingham B and named the new Senior Companion in that Mission.  His Companion Elder Beck just arrived June 5th from the Provo MTC and is a new Argetnina visa waiter to the Birmingham Alabama Mission.  Argetnina recieved 16 America "visa waiters" and 4 Latin "visa waiters Monday June, 5th. There are currently 26 remaining America "visa waiters and  3 Latin visa waiters.  We are excited for those that left this week and pray for the remaining to soon arrive in that beautiful Argentina destination.  Here's to Hueytown,  Elder Banks and Pili, Elder Draper says you ROCK!

Elder Draper's #1 Fan,
Mom
Diana Draper

"ON THE ROAD AGAIN"

Hola Familia,

Nada que emocionante esta semana en el campo (Nothing too exciting this week).   The computers here at the library are so old, I can’t see pictures that you send UGGH!  I hope you get mine.   I am doing ok and have just learned I will be “On The Road Again” transferred this Weds.  It’s ok getting transferred but it seems I am never anywhere long enough to get things off the ground with my investigators before I’m leaving again, but it’s all good! I will let you know where I land next Monday so hang on mom!
 

Elder Paul leaves in about an hour for Argentina, how exciting is that!  What a short temp assignment we had together but I am sure Argentina is hestatic, I am for him.

It rained a ton last night with the most amazing lightning storm, it was actually very cool.  We went to dinner last night with some young adults from Utah.  They are doing security alarm sales for the summer here.  It was very good steak and baked potatoes, what a treat! We have only been invited to dinner  3 times in the 7 weeks I have been here. One of the guys, Brian Nelson, actually went to Lone Peak High School.  He was a Senior when I was a Sophomore.  He played baseball and hung out with Kade Andrus so it was really cool seeing a friendly face from good ol home ( LPHS).

 So I guess the way they do transfers here is kinda  fun! We meet at a gym in the church.  There they have a large screen and a Mission will pop up followed by a pause and then like trivia music.  Alas the Missionary photos of those assigned to that Mission pop up.  It sounds fun so I definitely got the jitters today wondering where I am headed this  time.  Elder Pili is just so great and is the best companion I have had thus far.  I will miss him for sure.  Elder Banks as well, they are just the bomb!  

I know both of Lyndsey’s Cheer Coaches Mikun is amazing and I love Taylor she is my good friend Sloan’s sister.  She came to the farewell you probably have pictures of her mom.

I wrote you a letter on Wednesday Mom but hold up on sending anything for a few days at least tell next  Monday so I can get the address to you .  I will get some postcards to mail everyone soon as I can.

Well that’s about all I can really think of this week so love ya!  Hope to hear from you soon.
 

Love,

Elder Draper

"HUEY LEWIS AND THE NEWS"

Hi Mom and Family,

First of all mom, thanks for having an email setting right there waiting for me every Monday, it's funny you write on Sunday morning to make sure it's there for me the next day but I appreciate every week!  I know that you thought it would be Tuesday before you heard from me morm so  I did not mean to give you that heart attack that you are experiencing about now!  We got to use the church office as the libraries are closed as President stated in his email to all parents.  Lucky Us!

Dad, a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOUU!  I am emailing you a funny story that I am sure you will enjoy and that's OUR story so we're "Stick'in To It" ok!  I hope you have a great day and I love you!

I am glad you know that I moved becuase I knew mom would freak out if she hadn't heard and was trying to write to myold address.  My worst nightmare would be to have a letter marked "Return To Sender" I would have to visit her in the shrink ward whrn I got home!  Just kidding mom, but you  know you, but not better then I know you! (Wink)!   So my new address is:  2524 St N. Hueytown, Alabama 35023.  I live in a very very very little house, seeing how three out of the four Elders here are pretty pretty pretty big, in a good way though! Hueytown is a little po-dunk town as well but it's really nice, I have renamed it "DONALD DUCK"S TUNE TOWN". HAHA!  We have a car as Elder Banks is still recovering from his injuries.  He will get ther "Verdict" on Wed as to his progress and treatment plan.

Elder Paul, who was just moved (not sure if this is an official transferr or temporary assignment yet)just got his Visa to go to Argentina the same day we moved about 20 minutes after the temp assignment.  It was like so crazy, we both just looked at each other with a ? mark over our heads and then started pushing each other back and forth laughing thinking it was a Zone Leader prank! It was not so I am excited for him and he will leave June 4th.  He says he is just going before us to clear the path and get this whole Visa thing jump started and will meet with the Consulate on the way to the Mission Home and gave me a huge smile and a whopping slap on the back!!  Super cool Missionary I will miss him although we served breifly.  I know our time "The Visa Waiters" is just around the corner and the Spirit assures me "Everything is due time my son" and so I serve on!  I don't know what will happen here when he leaves, I could get transferred again or they will send another Elder/Companion.

Elder Pili, another Elder living with us is an amazing Missionaryand plays football ofr BYU.  We just hit it off the first day.  He says when we get back  he will will take Wyatt and I into the locker room and get signatures for Wyatt on his BYU football I gave him for this birthday last year, tell me you put it up mom right?  He also want to hiip the family up with some good tickets.  He passes a mean kitchen towel!

Unilke some of my days in Tusky after the University graduated, I am very busy here.  I have a really large teaching pool in this area , mostly in the projestcs but they love to listen and often have some pretty intresting and sometimes twisted questions, and their speech dialect is ....most intresting and I have to admit t it is hilarious at times! I sat up my first Baptismal date yesterday with a lady that we tracked into, Mom it was so exciting!  It would be great to get to hang around here for awhile I feel there are so many folks here seaking something they just don't know what it is yet.  Sometimes we get in so late we are just dropping and even the frying pans are exhausted for us so yes the "Church's Chicken" here is very good mom. Ha

Oh Mom, I forgot as you blog don't use any investigator's names, I suppose first names are ok, President mentioned that on a Conference call today.  I don't reck'n' you are cause your pretty good about that stuff so thats a "just in case" note.

Thats so awesome Cage leaves this Wednesday and will be serving in Belize!  How exciting!  I am sure although Shannon has sent out two before him she is a wreck about now!  The Missionary Mom Temple Day was a good idea mom, let me know how that goes.  Once a month is good for the SIsters to get together.  I am glad that you are still getting there weekly if no tmonthly cuase of Grams health. I heard the Timpanogis was closed for cleaning so I would assume your at the Draper Temple. It's neat knowing that my great grandfather founded the city of Draper not alot of folks can say that!

Speaking of Grams remind her of that promise she made to me she had never borken one yet so tell her I'm counting on it.  She is a strong willed soul and her love is bigger then the ocen.

I sent Misty an email so I got her, Nate and kids covered there and will send the Lyns and "Y" a letter when their's gets here.  I will give it a couple of day as I think they may have sent it to the previous address, if not I will get one out to them.

As for the pants..annn. just send smaller belts ASAP, suspenders is not an option. HA!  Just call Mr. Mac's and get the next size down from these.  Shoes still good have nto foulnd clearners yet but will get that done before I leave so relax mom I'm good!  I have to say I am enjoying this new GQ look, I feel pretty healthy loosing that weight!

Well that dang clock just keeps ticking and runing the race with me here so I gotta close for now.   I love you all and miss you a ton!  Tell everyone thanks for all the letters.  Be sure to get the new address on the blog or the rest of my letters will probaly take a Route #66 before they get here!

Love You All!!!!
Your Elder Wade Draper 

PASS THE "RAID" PLEASE

Wow Mom,

You never have enough questions but that 's great keeps me on my toes. Not alot has changed since last week so I am glad the questions were there wouldn't know what to say things are that slow! I will try and go to a tailor... we don't really have time to do any of that stuff and I will get my suits dry cleaned before I leave for Argentina.

The family in Demopolis are actually moving to Utah, if I didn't mention that before so they will be gone this week or the next. Things are going good here. I have not had a chance to see Shirley. She is always busy. We painted the another members house house though not Shirley's another family we are teaching. I don't know remember thier address. I am not going down to Demopolis this weekend because we are sending our housing coordinator down there to check out another members house to stay in.  He is a very elderly guy but super nice! There are several Brothers like this that house Missionaries and it just a great thing for both the Missionaries and the Brothers!

Elder Crowther had his first baptisim last Saturday! Like I said things are going good on this end, just getting by day by day! HA. Nothing really to update on it's slow but so is Alabama. Folks don't get to excited about things here unttil thier air conditioning goes out! LOL It's just so hot sometimes it's hard to think about anything but keeping cool and my ride (bike) does not have air conditioning, lots of windows but no AC. An occasional sprinkler is a blessing but those are few and far between!

Everyone said thanks for all the goodies you sent. I love the cologne I really needed it. Shelby said to check at Macy's for the ties, thats where she got mine! I don't need anymore jeans, maybe just send me smaller belts. A brown belt with brown shoes maybe ? and brown socks. I don't have any, thought we bought some but then I remembered they didn't have any at the time we were at Mr. Mac's. I could use 2 more black belts these are huge and I am having a real hard time keeping my pants up! Wouldn't want to loose them while crusing on my BMW bike, not a sight you would want to see. Ha Ha! I only cut off the one pair of jeans, I had no shorts and it's just so dang hot here! I sent my other shorts home remember, but I'm good hold up on those, maybe I will be in Argentina before long!

Dad, sad to hear about the Coaching thing you have always been a great Coach for those boys over several years, oh well thier loss and ??? gain!! It will be good for Wyatt to branch out and make new friends, after all you can never have enough of them right!!! Keep him in football and baseball Lacross has a long ways to go yet at ?? High!

Glad Lynd's is doing good in cheer! I am excited to see her in uniform wish I could be there to see her perform I will miss seeing her at competion and parades. Gosh guess I will be missing the HIghland FLing and all the city days around home this year, BUMMER but I'm sure we will have a "Hoe Down Here" fireworks, chittlings, and toothless rednecks what could be better then that!

Yep those little bumps on my arm are those pesty "skeeters" tons of them here and they love flesh, hold the sauce please! I have several of those bites tatooed just about everywhere, well almost! Deet is desert for them so just gotta live with it and hope I don't to get West Niles.

Your so right mom, can't wait for "THE BOOT"! You nailed that one! LOL  I  haven't heard much about transfer other then they will not be over until June 6th. I am not sure where the Missionaries were assigned in the Bessemer Zone but that is good news! Elder Crowther and I have not heard any news about our Visa's so Ihave been told that when they come our Mission President will be the first to know. I pray we are able to get to that beautiful destination as I really miss speaking Spanish, dish time has served it's purpose but never seems to be long enough.

I will try and get to the tailor shop but we honeslty have very little time to do much of anything on Pday between service projects and laundry and then shopping for essentials, but I will do my best for the name and directions to the closest one though! I will send you the info as soon as I can.

I ran into Elder Tyler Bentley who I went to high school with. It was good to see a familiar face from home.  We had a great visit and floated back in time for a few minutes to those days roaming the halls at Lone Peak, ahh those were the days ma!


I was not aware that we had a 5th tenant in our apartment unil I ran into "Joe" (Roach) but he had already checked out before we could chat. Looks like I will be adding BUG SPRAY to the Stop and Shop list. Gross huh? I have only have seen these things like with "Bill Nye The Science Guy". I have been shaking everything out since and eating, well that's just another story it freaks me out a little!

We built a Pagola swing for the Branch President and his wife in Demopolis with the help of  another family.  I am getting somewhat handy with the tools. It turnded out nice don't you think?

Well I gotta run so I love and miss you all. Catch you on the "FLY" they live here to! HA

Love,

Elder Wade Draper

The 4 Stooges

Hey Mom,

This will be a quick email, I will try and write a longer one later if I have time. I just read your email, I hope you wrote it with the right address got it with the RIGHT address! Ha Ha (see below)!  We have got to be "The 4 Stooges 2012".
It was so good seeing you guys last night! Skype is a great thing huh?  Thanks Dad for setting that up for mom, and Lyndsey, I hear your getting pretty handy at the tech stuff to, that’s good mom fell off the grid when she quit work and you know mom you seriously could use a 101 class.  Just kidding I know you are so busy doing all my old chores. LOL

I know Grams is tough and she can kick through it, I have to hang on to her sparkiness at times like now.  She promised she would be there when I came home and has never broke a promise yet! I heard from Kennedy  and Brelynn today which was good! Ken’s told me all her wedding plans! It sounds like it’s going to be great! Brelynn said she is having withdrawals!

So I measured my waist and I am a 41, but like my American Eagle Jeans are 36 and they are huge, so what is the secret to measuring cause right now I’m feeling pretty stupid.  If I don’t get this figured out soon they will have to add suspenders to the Missionary Wardrobe.  It’s getting hard steering bike with one hand and holding my pants with the other.  Not really but not far off!

Elder Crowther and I have had the wrong address for about 3 weeks now so who knows where our mail has gone!!  After giving you the new address yesterday (right apartment number),  Elder Hardy clarified it today after he saw am outgoing letter with the wrong return address. So here is the correct address : 

 

Elder Wade Draper

900 Hargrove Road Apt # 121
Tuscaloosa, AL  35401

Can you fix the address on the blog too and put the right one! I really hope you didn't send that box yet!  I know you said you wrote three letters so maybe they will come knocking on our door and we can invite them to sit down and take a load off then just happen to have those scriptures right there, imagine that!

 

We got a text yesterday that was hard stating that 4 New Zealand waiting Missionaries here in Alabama have been moved to a permanent Alabama status.  While I know there is work to be done here, I felt sad for them and keep praying the BAW Missionaries will soon reach that beautiful destination. I know that whatever happens will be the plan but I’ve always been a dreamer that’s ok right?  Well it used to be at the age of 3 so you said! HA

 

Well since we had such a long conversation yesterday I don’t have much to say just right now.  You haven’t emailed back in about 20 mins so I hope everything is ok there with Grams. I know you have been living at the hospital, thanks for helping her trying to live up to that promise. She and I are so lucky to have you there always trying to make everything ok.

Dad that was agood one you played on Mom, calling from your cell and making it look like I was calling in on skype while everyone was waiting for the call.  I would have loved to see mom jump out of her chair like she did, I can only imagine what that one cost you. HA HA.

I love you so much and I am proud of you for holding up so well on the call I am sure you were a basket case afterwards but that’s ok  that’s you mom wouldn’t have it any other way.

Misty was a riot I really can count on her to turn it up!  The face timing her and skyping me at the same time, pretty brilliant mom .  I am sorry she had to leave the hospital before I called I know the wait was long and I missed that 3:00 mark but everything was backed up yesterday.

Gotta run mom squishes to everyone!  Next Monday same place same time.

Love Your,

Elder  Wade Draper    

A GRANDMOTHER'S LOVE

Today 5/11/12 as we left for the hospital Grams could do nothing but talk about her dear sweet Elder and wondered what the day held in store for him. After arriving and prepped she still remained focused on him and I felt that is the security she took with her beyond the closing doors. She continued to coverse with those in the cath lab about her Missionary and how proud she was of him as she slowly faded off. One hour later, after what had been a successful proceedure before, she awoke to having pressure applied to a femoral vein that was producing intense swelling and internal bleeding. The pain and bruising are more then I myself can bare to watch as she wakes only to be put back to rest with medication. With assistance I help to turn her and in the midst of the palm of her hand laid a picture of her Missionary. I know the days to come may have many uncertainties but the one thing that is certain to me is how much she loves Heavenly Father and the blessings she receives from knowing she has grandson serving a full times mission. Her testimony I will forever hold near. I will treasure the years we have had and pray for a few more if it be thy will. Peaceful slumber mom.

We love you.
Right by your side mom,
Diana

FINER THEN A FROG'S HAIR...

Hey Everyone,

Gosh mom, by now I thought I had answered all your Top 10, but that's ok, keep them coming, it's  the biggest part of you I miss, questions about what I'm up too!  Knowing your always right there with your since of humor and sending back encouragement in that fashion as well maked me laugh at the bumpy roads, some days literally! HA  

Let me start by saying this past week has gotten better and I am "Finer Then a Frog's Hair".  I think I am getting more used to the swing of things here.  I really just LOVE the folks here they are so nice.  Even though we have only 1 progressing investigator they are polite to say "Not today child" and I have to smile as I walk away remembering they just nailed it on the head as "I am a Child of God".  Our other two Elders have a ton of investigators and we keep asking them what they are sprinkling on thier cornflakes! HA  I guess that's just how Missions work and hopefully our bowls will be full soon.  I think partially it due to the fact that we, my companion and I, are split between 3 areas and that really impacts the amount of time we have to spend with folks, not sure, but I am sure the Lord's watching mindfully with His plan so I'm good!

Funny thing how complaining about doing dishes at home has taken on a whole new pleasure for me.  The Spanish speaking Elder and I do not have alot of time to converse in Spanish so we have decided a good meeting place to do that is "bustin' suds, not doing laundry but at the kitchen sink, loving it!

Ok now back at you mom with those TOP 10 answers: I will be calling or skyping you on Mothers Day around 4:00 your time, 3:00 my time, as we should arrive back from Demopolis by then.  I miss you tons an cannot wait to see you mom! I love you sooo much and am thankful for your unconditional love while I was at home being a pain sometimes (you know I was).  Your support has always ben appreciated although sometime it felt more like endurance I now realize that it was all for my best!  Thanks for hanging in there even when it probaly wasn't always fun to be stuck there.

I will mail my luggage receipt to the Mission Home.  I just asked another Elder about packages so you can mail my packages here.  When we are not here they leave a slip on the door or in the mailbox to have us come and get it in the office.  Thanks for sending something for each of us mom, I know when it gets here they will aprreciate it as much as I do.  Famous Amos cookies sounds pretty good with a glass of cold milk at the end of the day.

How is Misty, Nate and kids?  Lyns, Wyatt and Grams doing ok?  Tell Dad and them I send my love.  I will try and email if I have time individually but I may have to catch them on the fly! HAHA  Lots of them here! 

I so enjoy my music when I study the hyms.  It brings a special spirit and clears my thoughts of the busy day.  Here's a SHOUT OUT to Shelbie, thanks for helping my illeterate iPod mom ( that is what you called yourself right mom)? HAHA  

We do have AC but we use fans instead  which we welcome at the return to our apartment.  It is a different kind of hot mostly humidity and unlike Utah the shade does not provide refuge.  My "BEACHES tan is turning into a farmers tan, fits Demoplois countryside well.

We did not get to meet with Shirley she was at a funeral but set up another appointment with her through family that could not travel to the funeral (elderly folks).  We did paint her living room for her though while she was attending the funeral, a chore she was dreading and  I'm sure she was pleased to see upon her arrival.  It felt so good to be serving in a small way!

I'm not sure about the driving permitt, the other Argentina waiting Misionary got his Saturday and I did not so for now I will not be diriving but all is good, we will see.  Maybe that's a sign that I won't be needing one cause I heading to Argentina on June 5th right? Well like I said maybe that would be great as I have heard they have closed down 12 areas now due to the lack of arriving Missionaries.

I haven't received any Senior photos from Riley or Breylyn so get those girls on the horn mom!  I sure will miss not being there for that and Kennedy's wedding, any updates there?

Yes I met with the Mission President for a 3 minute interview, he is really busy I guess.  It was nice to put a face with a voice though since he could not make it to pick us up at the airport.  I will see him in again in about 2 weeks, May 24th over halfway through the 6 weeks we are to be here but that is not set in stone.

I think I have lost about 12 lbs thus far, probably a good thing mom don't worry.  I am eating ok and I actually had BBQ the other night.  Now hold on to your chair mom,  I even tried the BBQ sauce and it was awesome, pretty wild huh?  It was different from what we have at home very tasty. 

We have laundry facilities here at the complex.  We go in 2 shifts to get it done.  Like Grandma, alot  of the ladies hang there laundry outside so cutting through alley's to get there faster isn't a wise option.  You just never know where those clothesline are, they are not alawys in just their own yards and can strectch into the alley' s, I guess depending on the size of the families.  Anyways they're waiting there like a web and you can get snatched off that bike pretty suddenly, luckily I have not yet! 

I think that about covers it!  Overall I am enduring and trying to endure well, although I will admit, the smell of occasional chlorine and laughter from behind fences remind me of some of my summer fun back home with friends.  I probably enjoyed the cliff surfing the most even though you held your breath and said a quick prayer when I told you where I was going, it was a rush like no other! 

I have to say I do enjoy the company of my closest friend The Holy Ghost.  In every moment of every day I feel it's  presence.  I know that my Heavenly Father smiles down on me every night and whispers another day well done Elder, well done.

"I want to leave this blog today with my testimony that Chirst lives and that he is with us through all life's experiences, and each of those experiences serves a purpose in strengthening us as individuals, and that adds strenghts to our testimonies as well.  I love my family very much and thank heavenly father daily for them.  I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ.... amen"

Amor,
Anciano Draper 

"It takes a lot of courage to release the familiar and seemingly secure, to embrace the new. But there is no real security in what is no longer meaningful. There is more security in the adventurous and exciting, for in movement there is life, and in change there is power." ~Allen Cohen~

          

HEART TO HEART....

Just a short note between Pdays and those precious emails from Elder Draper, to let everyone know that my testimony of Missionary Service grows stronger every passing week.  Since Wade has began this journey, I can see God's hand at the wheel in both his life and ours.  The blessing we receive each week are countless and I can clearer see those I have taken for granite for far to many years. 

Just today, as we visited a new heart physician for my mother, we left with a deeper appreciation for our new physician then we had anticipated.  

A picture of huge redbud trees, forming an arch at the top, linning an infinity pathway, with a single young man walking through them, hung in the hallway.  It's intense  beauty  invited the conversation between the pysician and myself.  "No that is not my son, but a favorite park of mine in Argentina where I served as a Mission President in the "South Mission" he replied.  He proceeded to take us down another hall to show us yet another photo of some brightly colored buildings in Boca.  He stated that while serving in that Mission for 3 years, he grew very appreciative of President Carter and his family and thier wonderful work.  He  is anxoius to return to the people of Argentina for a reunion in the near future.

Now some may say "foolish thoughts" but the timming of having Mom transition from one physician to another after 4 years treatment, 2 pacemakers and heart stents later, is not a coincidence by far, but a "HEART FELT" blessing.

Thank You Heavenly Father for the blessing and reminding me, you are right there not only guiding my Elder but all those dear to him. May each of you reading look for those blessing as well.  They are right there if you take but one moment to reconize them.

Good night,
Sister Diana Draper

  

MOVE OVER LANCE ARMSTRONG...

Hey Mom and All!

Pday is Monday so  we go to the library to email and here Iam.  Well first 4 days here in Alabama have been really interesting! It has had it's ups and downs...literally on bike! My area is Tuscaloosa/Northport about the size of the Orem/Provo area and attaches to each other as well, however I will rotate to Demopolis as well about 45 minutes from here. 


The apartment is decent, kinda sketchy, but I have really only spent like a day and a half here we spent the weekend in Demoplois, which is a very small little town, biked... yes biked around there and talked to less active members there.  We have laundry in our apartment but I have not had a chance to do it.  The safety and sceneary depends on the area where you are. I have only been on Campus and the ghetto projects so vision that mom!  It is very very hot here (ha hot) but I love it! 

Demoopolis - We found a woman named Shirley she is a kick in the pants! She said she would like for us to teach her some more, so I am excited to go back this weekend and teach her! Maybe she’s kin to Grandma’s “Har??”,  The people here are really really nice! Disappointed I have not taught any Spanish speakers... I am like in an English Speaking area, but whatever.

Well I didn't know I needed sheets here because in Argentina I don't and I was told at the MTC that they give me sheets here.  My bag was over anyway, so thats why I sent that home.. um, my bad, because  I have been sleeping on a mattress with nothing for 2 nights, won’t mention how I’m drying off after showers.  We are supposed to go shopping today because we literally have no food in the apartment! I don't know if that is going to happen because the Missionaries don't get their money till Wednesday and they don't know if they have our money yet, glad you sent me with a debit card mom you always think ahead! There seems like allot of stores around, I guess we shop at Wal-Mart?

I have no idea how mail works... or anything for that matter, but for now letters can be addressed to my apartment but any packages should probably go to the Mission Home address, please post that as well mom on the blog. I'm not sure if they hold packages here in the office or if there is an office or how safe a package is to set around here in or out of an office.  As you can tell I pretty much don't know anything yet feeling pretty much like a fish outta water for now. 

I am not gonna lie, my companion is really nice..but he hauls and  he literally just leaves me in the dust on his bike. I mean I wasn't expecting to ride a bike, especially one that doesn’t seem to be the right size, on open streets with lots of cars and crazy traffic.  I have never done this before so I admit I am a little slower and sometimes he literally just leaves me where I can't see him, he eventually waits for me 20 mins up the road, but ya another day and story. We have a car, only use it when we drive far or we all need to go together, I can't drive it yet, but I probably will be in the next few weeks


I am not very far, 2 blocks from Alabama University! We visited a recent convert yesterday at the University and it was fun riding my bike around campus hardly any traffic.

We have a cell phone but you know the rules right mom, right! LOL  We use it for appointments etc and they text weather alerts.  There was a huge tornado here in 2011, killed several and I believe it came sneaking in the middle of the night. The phone would be a great GPS device for me since I'm clueless, but if my companion doesn’t slow down I think I will let a little air out of his tires at a time until  I have his double stroke timed with my glide, that should slow him down a bit! LOL 
  

I came here with an Elder Wade Crowther from the MTC and he is in my apartment as well, and lucky for us, he is Spanish speaking as well and is waiting for his transfer to Argentina!  He is an awesome kid!  Going to the same mish!  I don't know who Jace Palmer is but I think he is in my district here, I will look for him.

I don't know how much time I have left because I had to email the President a long letter! Oh I get to SKYPE you on Mother’s day around 4-4:30ish. 

My companion doesn't talk much to me, so it's a really awkward feeling since I love to do just that, TALK!I don't really know what Iam doing, just figuring it out day by day.  . I just hope my companion will soon realize how lucky he is to have me around, you know I can bring the LIFE to the PARTY anywhere (Life is a Party, Celebrate It Well).   I like to think that my Mission is a celebration of SERVICE, so no offense to anyone reading,  those who know me will get my drift and undertand where I'm coming from, besides,  I'm about as social as it gets, right mom! (HA)   I’m sure I will survive, mom you know I will, I just need to breathe….or whatever.  The Lord will guide me, that much I can count on, not sure about bikes in heaven though,  he seems to be letting me take that ride on my own.  I know he's right there with me but just not sure he's wants to be a passenger! HA.

Overall it’s been ok I guess, still getting use to it but, I will endure and endure well!!!  Promise!!!

Love,

Wade

I HIT THE GROUND PEDALING....

Hey All,

Just a short email to let you all know I  am here and soon to be pedaling around in the Tuscalooska Northport Mission.  My new address, as well as the 3 Elders I will be roomating with for probably the next 6 weeks is: 

 Elder Wade Draper
 1433 Hargrove Road East Apt. #11

 Tuscaloosa AL 35401

I was originally assigned to the  Birmingham/Tuscalooska Demopolis Mission but when we got here I was switched to the Northport Mission.  The reassignment was so Elder Crowther and I could practice Spanish in the mornings and evenings and not loose the language we have grown to love at the MTC and will be speaking in Argentina.  There is very little opportuinities to utilize our Spanish here as the race ratio here is 60% African American, 30% Caucasion and 10% Spanish give or take an enchillada (all in fun my hermanas and refuerzos).

Well I'm looking forward to some "finger licking"Paula Dean chicken and ribs, guess I'll try the grits but  probably pass on the collar greens yuk!   

Catcha' by the bayou all, gotta run (pedal) for now!

"In The Land Of Cotton"
     Elder Wade Draper

PS ( I saw NeNe Leakes from Real Housewives of Atlanta from afar in the Atalanta airport and I about had a cow! ha  haha)



 

SWEET HOME ALABAMA....

PHONE CALL 4/25/12 10:00 am

Hey Mom,

Just calling to let you know I'm leaving for Alabama Birmingham Mission tomorrow! Really mom, I'm not kidding. We will get up at 4am and leave here by 5:00, be at Salt Lake International by 6:00. I will fly Delta 2218 leaving at 7:10 into Atlanta Georgia then on to Alabama. 

HELLLOOOO mom, ok mom, I know your there cause I can feel you crying it's ok take a deep breath and wipe those tears, did you put the kleenex by the phone like I told you earlier last week?   I'm here son, right here, always will be. Sniff sniff, ok, who's going with you? Well Hermanar Fernly and Elder Crowther (Wade Daniel) isn't that a hoow since dads name is Daniel Wade amd I was named after dad, anyways he is, from another District.   Elder Nielson's is going to Ogden Utah and the other three Hermana's to Spokane Washington.   Elder Witherell is still recovering, nicely though!

I'm excited mom, I know you are excited for me too, I think this is the first time I have ever heard you speechless! HaHa. Wade honey, sniff sniff, you will be awesome wherever you go as long as your walking in the footsteps of the Lord and yes I am over the top excited for you. Will you call me tomorrow before you leave?  I don't know how it works mom, they haven't said but I bought a calling card like you said just in case. I have a 55 minute layover in Atlanta so I've heard we can call on layovers.   Mom, I gotta go times up, I know you will be tracking the flight online while were in flight. I remember we used to do that when we first moved to Utah and Grams would fly out from Kansas and I was always excited to be able to sit at "THE NO ZONE" Dads computer, and mess with the keyboard!

K mom really gotta go. I love you much! CLICK... Again my cheek remained pressed to the phone for several seconds realizing he was off on the next journey of his mission and I was assured again, "All Is Well" and  I too must move forward and keep pressing on.

Sweet Hour Of Prayer,
Mom

2 FOR 1 BEST DEAL OF A LIFETEIME....

Friday Phone Call 12:35 pm...

Hi Mom,

How are you, who's around, am I on speaker? I have 5 mins here we go.   Guess why I'm calling, no not to find out what happened on Celebrity Apprentice!... Laughter....Well your second guess is correct visa did not come through, so we will are getting temp assignment and will know by Monday or Tuesday and I will contact you then as I think we are flying out to that destination as early as Friday, crazy huh?  You know I am good either way I will miss Elder Witherell and my companion, but it's time to begin the next journey, the best 2 for 1 deal of a lifetime.. so let the drums roll right! 

Thanks for all you have done while I have been here at the MTC, just knowing your always there will be a comfort that I 'm sure many an Elder and Sister have carried in their hearts. Again I cannot tell you how greatful I have been for my Branch President - Bowen and his wife, treasures I will carry forever as well, no mom not your replacements, and additional one...Laughter...

Yes to all your questions that's funny you would tape them to the back of your phone to ask them, but that again is so like you because you knew you would be a basket case when you heard my voice...Laughter...

So Lyndsey made cheer great!  Thank Wyatt for the picture of him and his baseball team with  the Argentina Banner everyone here thought it was the bomb!  Grams doing ok?  I worry a little about her now that I am not in the basement at night to listen for her but I know the intercom will let you know if she needs you, good thinking on Dad's part.  Misty sounds like she really has gotten into LaCross with Dominick that is awesome my companion played LaCross, send my love to her and Nate and the kids and to Annie as well.   Sounds like my friends are way busy too, can't believe I just step away and some of them are getting married, those silly girls!!!

You will probably have to just mail that filter bottle I was going to take to Elder ??? there in Argentina cause now I don't know when I will get there for now.  That was nice of you mom to just go and get one for his mom  in Canada who is having a hard time finding one.  I hope I can and will be the kind of example you are always, I try.

I miss you as much as you miss me to, and the family too especially the wrestling with Wyatt we would take out walls  here in our residence if we tried that you can probably tell how tight they are when I sent that video of ??? trying to break dance it was a HOOT don't you think, I will miss him very much he has such a strong testimony and was a rock to me.  If you get the chance or hear from him tell him I am always thinking of him and write when he can.

I love you so much mom and I wish I could give you my big bear hug as well.  I invision you at times, waiting anxiously and then setting a world record sprinting and taking out everything in your path to embrace me when I come home.  Just kidding mom I will be that one, heartbeating like crazy, for the moment to see you and the family with all the hugs, a reunion like no other, the best WELCOME HOME gift ever, in 2 years.  In the meantime mom know that while I am away my arms and Heavenly Fathers are always stretched out wrapping them around you at all times.

Times up, I know mom wish we had more too!!!  I love you mom, hope to talk to you again soon, pray for me as I do you and family .  CLICK... that was it, he came and went so fast but the time I will forever hold dear.

Number One Fan of Elder Wade Draper,
Mom

TRAVEL PLANS OR NOT....

Dear Mom, Dad and Family,

This email is to let you the "Travel Plans" were given to us, departing for Argentina 4/23 on AMerican Airlines around 7:00ish. Flying form SLC to Texas and then into Miami.  WIth that in mind this is all tenative of the arrival of our visas on Friday so I will call you on Friday if that does not happen to let all know that I will not be on that flight.  I'm still good either way Elder Witherell is still recovering so hanging around for him would be a plus for all of us but I can also smell the McDonald's in the airport, whichever airport that might be, heading to wherever Heavenly Father has charted my course.

I have been teaching "Actor/Acting" investigators for the past 2 weeks and things are going pretty well.  There are times when I get stumped but if I just pause for a moment it comes to me in one form or another until I can complete the sentence, it's getting much easier.  I have the most amazing Branch President and they mean the world to me in my world here and I will carry them in my hearts as I leave.  They have made my footsteps a little lighter here and have imprinted steps I will follow for a lifetime.

I don't have much time today, going over alot preparing to leave stuuff should that happen so I will catch you on Friday if that doesn't happen.  If I do leave Monday then I will call you so stay out of the "Control Tower", you won't be able to see me that far anyways!  I know you all to well mom! LOL I'm not sure if we don't leave what happens next but probably a reassignemnt, but I will know if that happens.  I have been told that we anytime there is a lyaover we do get to call from each one so that would be great huh!  Be sure and put the kleenex box by the phone mom! HAHA

Love You Much,
Elder Wade Draper

FINGERS PRINTED AND CROSSED....

Hello Mom,

Nothing has really changed here.  Ok "NEWSFLASH", mom set down, and don't start that sniffing, ok? We met with the visa agents yesterday and I got finger printed then we will meet with the Consulate on Thursday.  I will not be sad or anything if I don't leave and I wouldn't mind if I got reassigned so it's whatever, whatever happens happens I'm good, it's the Lord's plan not mine!  But ya, you ok there mom, breathe!

I get to HOST tomorrow which is when we show the new missionaries around and it'll be fun, reflecting back on those BIG first moments I had! I really can't think of anything else to write today it's a busy day for me, what else do you want to know!

Oh I sent Grandma a birthday letter but it got returned?  I had the right address and everything  so tell Grams her letter is back on it's way and to write back when she can. Going to Temple will email later.

Ok, just got back from the Temple it was great as always.  I find real peace there. Even though I am at the MTC, my mind is full most of the time, with all that I am learning and just to have a quiet moment to reflect on my true purpose here, is priceless.  Not only does the spirit even fill my heart more my mind thanks me as well for the break.

Those windstorms in Argentina, crazy thing huh?  See there was a reason for the "hold ups" on visa's don't you agree?  Lots of opportunity for those arriving though,  and in the fall perfect timing, not the heat of the summer another blessing! 

Back to finger printing I think that means that our paper work has not even gone in yet, it will go in after we meet the consulate on Thursday and sign the papers. So then our paper work is in and we just wait.

I have to go to a devotional mom.  Tell Dad, sending my love, there is just so little time in my Pday. I wish it were longer.   laundry, Temple and evening devotionals take up about everything, and my 30 minute email time is shared with everyone looking for a computer so I try to make sure I'm not a computer hog for lack of better words, it wouldn't be fair to others but there are times when it is hard to find an open one.

Need to close for now, keep writting Mom, it means alot at the end of the day, but I'm okay. Give the kids a hug and let Dad know I miss his cooking, I can go through the line by now with my eyes closed and pick out each meal without opening them HA!  Gotta go they are rounding us up!!!

Love,

Elder Wade Draper 

SERIOUSLY 8 ROWS BACK...

Hi Mom, Dad you there? 

Well Ya I didn't see you at Conference, my bad.  How could I miss you,  8 rows back from the Prophet, no way, but I know you will send me "pics of the tx" mom, that's so you! LOL  I was way tired but it was a pretty cool experience being there! 

Yes Hermana Leavitt is going to my mission she is in my district! And Hermana Brunsdale left for Texas like 3 weeks ago!

Elder Witherell had to have surgery on a torn miniscus yesterday so Elder Boyer and I got to leave and go pick up his prescription! So that was exciting! But he has a 6 week recovery so we are praying our visas get delayed cause we all wanna go to Argentina together!

When is grandmas birthday? I forget I will write her and check back later tonight so email me it by tonight. But ya things are going well here!

Hey Lynds whats up? COOL congrats on making SSA! In regards to your email, ya you better play volleyball haha! There is a sister here at the MTC that looks just like you, I got a picture of her, I am gonna send it to mom later so ya you will have to see it! It is pretty funny! I hope you are having a good week, and I hope school is going good! Tell Abbey I say hi! How was Young Womans Conference?   Hope to hear back from ya soon!  Love ya, miss ya!  Gotta make this one short, I am running low on my email time!

Wyatt you better hop on a letter I need someone to take ahold of that WWE hold LOL, can't imagine how strong you will be when I get home!  All that LPYF and Utah Elite Baseball should keep you in shape till I get back!  

I cannot wait to eat at the airport though the food is just soo repative!

Can you send a ton of snickers for Elder Witherell, its his fav candy and I can buy a card here they have them at the store.  Don't send pics back I have copies already of every pic I send!  Is the Easter Bunny coming this way? Hint Hint...stickers are a big thing here! Disney ones or something!

I love you all and will write latter this week. Shout out to Sis-Misty love ya!


Love,
Elder Draper

MTC BUZZZ>>> WELCOME ELDER ARCHULETA

"It's the Day After Tomorrow" as sung by David himself. 3/28/12 is a great day to all of us who have enjoyed listening to a voice from someone whom we could relate to, a Brother of our own and now and Elder amongst us, so with that said we welcome Elder David Archuleta to the MTC this day. What a great time to be here at MTC

Things continue to grow clearer each day to me,  as does my purpose and this calling. I am blessed, as well all the other's here are, for the choice I have made to serve this Mission. I see those blessings in the eyes I look into and the voices of testimonies, my favorite sharing time.

I want my family and friends to know that I have a ever increasing Testimony of Jesus Christ. My experiences here have been great and far to numerous to mention and I know that I have chosen the right path.

Love,
Elder Draper

PS(Mom can you post Elder Archuleta's uTube Mission announcement on the blog! I, as did the world, rejoice in that moment). Love Ya

ONE BY ONE THEY DEPART....

Hi Mom, Dad, and all,

So ya it has been a pretty good week! The practices for the choir are killing me!!!! 2 of my favorite Elders left this morning for there mission! They were in the District above us and they all got reassigned because there visas had not come in! I wouldn't be surprised if I had to stay here a couple more weeks or got reassigned cause rumor is the Argentina visas are just getting slower and slower. So we will see, Ummm we are supposed to leave April 24.

Names in my district are:

Elder Travis Witherell

Elder Brennan Neilson

Elder Tanner Boyer

Me

Hermana Elise Leavitt

Hermana Leigh Andreason

Herman Amanda Fernley

Hermana Laurel Cahoon

But I still have not heard from Brelynn or Kenn, but Bromleys did write me a couple of days ago!   I am constantly writing you guys and the Robinsons! Lynette sends me cupcakes all the time which is very nice of her!

Can you do me a favor and get me LPHS address to write Sue and some teachers and could you ask Sister Hodges that like a couple days before I leave if she can like meet me by my residence and I can give her some stuff to bring back to you guys cause I have allot of stuff! 

I will probably send you a short email this afternoon.

Love ya!

Love,

Elder Draper

"I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving." PSALMS 69:30

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"Music has boundless powers for moving families toward greater spirituality and devotion to the gospel. Latter-day Saints should fill their homes with the sound of worthy music."

-- "First Presidency Preface," Hymns, 1985, x What a special meaning this Quote has brought to the Draper family as we have just found out that Elder Draper will be singing with the MTC Choir in the Saturday afternoon session of the 182nd General Conference broadcast.  We are so thankful that he may share his testimonty to family, friends and Elder's across the world   May "The Spirit" fill your homes and your hearts be touched as we gather together as Brothers's and Sister's.   Thank you Heavenly Father for this blessing among blessing! Sister, Draper

The Few The Proud The "District Leader"

Hey Mom!


So did you get the pictures I sent you???

On Sunday I was called to be District Leader.  The picture in front of the Temple, dated 3/18/12 is my District.  The names are as follows: Top Row Right to Left:  Hermana Ferrley, Hermana Andreason, Hermana Cahoon and Hermana Leavitt.  Bottom Row same sequence:  Elder Boyer, Me, Elder Neilson, and Elder Witheren.  I am sending a few more this week one with the entire Zone and another with a Hermana I had as a counselor at EFY awhile back, cool huh?  There is also a silly one of me and my  roomates or as they preferred to be called my "Sandlot Brothers".  We have a great time and draw from each others strenghts.  

This week has been pretty good! We are no longer the new district here we actually are going to be the oldest in a few days! I also got picked to sing in General Conference but.... Elder ? didn't get chosen and he really wanted to, soo I don't think I am going to do it, cause I would feel really bad!

It's crazy that I've been here for 4 weeks tommorow! They always say that the days feel like weeks and the weeks feel like days! It is sooo true! The days are long in reality but it makes falling alseep pretty easy and I bet you don't miss turning off that TV either right?  Ha

I hope Wyatt and Lyndsey are doing ok! I got a letter from Grandma yesterday! It was nice to hear from her! Tell Lyn's, Misty, Grams, etc I will write as I have time.  Also thanks to all who have been sending packages or treats, it means alot to find a little something at the end of the day.  Mom, thanks for looking out for my roomies as well, they look forward to my packages about as much as I do!

I also took a pic with those ugly wigs haha but ya when it is printed out I will send it to ya, what a hoot! Only you mom, can come up with something that crazy but it was alot of laughs!

Sorry my emails are not very long there is always like a line and people get impatient but ya! I miss you lots and hope all is well, love you all lots.


Love,
Elder Draper