Merry Christmas

Fwd: Happy Chrismuskah

Dear Family,
This Week hasnt been super eventful, all of our 5 progressing investigators have been sick and/or out of town. But by next week it is possible for us to have up to 10, because our teaching pool is getting big! We must be doing something right i guess. I will call on sunday at 230pm your time which is 130pm your time. I dont get skype. :( but my companion does, because hes international, from Canada. LAME! Oh well. We had a service project yesterday which is why i didnt email, so today is our pday. Im excited for the holidays, and to hear from you.

On Mon, Dec 19, 2011 at 9:07 AM, Bret Scott <bnscott2@gmail.com> wrote:

• Christmas and Hanukkah to Merge
  Continuing the current trend of large-scale mergers and acquisitions, it was announced today that Christmas and Hanukkah will merge. An industry source said that the deal had been in the works for about 1,300 years.
  While details were not available at press time, it is believed that the overhead cost of having twelve days of Christmas and eight days of Hanukkah was becoming prohibitive for both sides. By combining forces, spokesman say, the world will be able to enjoy consistently high-quality service during the Fifteen Days of Chrismukah, as the new holiday is being called.

Good morning Elder Tyler!
Hope your week has gone well .  We shipped you a package to the mission home at the new address in Oxnard -- it should arrive today -- so it will be there when you show up on Thursday for your meeting. 

We did not get you sunglasses -- as we felt that would be a bit of a stretch -- if you have some in mind go price them out and let us know, Mom can send your prescription so you can have them made to order. 

We've been busy preparing for the big day, can't wait to hear your voice on Sunday.  Remember we are at church between 11am - 12:10pm MT -- which is 10am - 11:10am PT for you -- you said you had church at 9 -- so if you planned to call/skype after 11:30 or so we will be ready.   We heard that there has been some rules from SLC regarding calls home, and that Skype was authorized -- if you want to do that just let use know, we'll have it up and running at that time -- my screen name is Bret_Scott.
Your package arrived the other day --- so that is safely here.  

We started counting and it should be transfers this week? I hope you are not being transferred this time around --- Let us know how your pending baptism is panning out.  We're excited for your first mission baptism.
The weather has been cold -- we've had snow on the ground for 2 weeks --- and it is supposed to snow again today.  The mountain snow is not very good yet.... <sigh>
Austin reports that he does not like the MTC much -- doesn't care for the food, struggling with the language.  I'm sure that will go better for him as he gets more comfortable.
We love you and hope this letter finds you happy and tired -- I hope you have more work than you can handle -- since I remember those times of my mission being the best.
Love Dad.

--

Love, Elder Tyler Scott

Fwd: Monday December 12

Unfortunately Maxene wont be able to be getting baptized, She has not been able to come to church at all due to her pain. She is 70 so we cut her some slack, and she broke her back in the 80's still suffering from that. She is on a lot of pain killers too, both liquid and pill morphine (multiple times a day...), soma, Valium, and to top it off she has to be on oxygen... Yikes.
   Recently she has been having a hard time walking due to the fact that her knee is grinding, lack of cartilage i think. :/ But the reason she cant be baptized is because of her use of Medical Marijuana. We had a rocky lesson but we managed to bring her around to try and get off it if she can. Hopefully she will pray and have faith sufficient. By the way Cheryl Lindsey should have sent me a Facebook request, so she want to send you some pictures. Get in contact with her.
   We are really excited for the new family we picked up they have really hit the ground running! Surinder is from Malaysia, and she isn't going to let anything stand in the way of her and her daughters getting baptized. So we are working with her. Overall things are pretty good..
   Go ahead and send the package if you want, but we have a xmas devotional on the 22nd so if it gets there before then there's a good chance i will get it. Just call the Mission office and ask them what to do. I will call your cell, just be ready, we have church at 9 but just sacrament meeting. so yah. ok bye, and yes it is a pretty sexy hat i agree.

On Mon, Dec 12, 2011 at 7:20 AM, Bret Scott <bnscott2@gmail.com> wrote:

Good morning Elder Scott --

Another week flown by like it was an hour.  Your last week's note sounded very encouraging as far as the missionary work goes.  I hope everything continues to progress as you were describing.

We are 13 days from Christmas --- and we need to work out a plan for you to call on that day.  We will have Sacrament meeting at 11am - 12:10pm ( MT ) and then will be going to be spending dinner with the Rotheys etc. so let us know what time of day you will be calling.  Perhaps its best to call one of our cell phones ( 720-810-1061, 720-300-7102 ) and then we can call you back in case you are at a members home or what not.  Find out from your companero what the best approach is and let us know.  We can't wait to talk to you.

We want to send your Christmas package -- and do not want to ship it to the mission home -- are you still leery about receiving packages at your apartment in Bakersfield?  Please advise.

Weston and Mason are in the midst of finals -- they're all stressed out.  It'll all be over in a few days then they can relax.  Hopefully it stars snowing 'cause so far it's pretty bleak up in the mountains --- not like it was last year for us at this time.   

Nothing much new to report around here ---Mom started working at another place -- she seems to like it -- it s a high-tech reproductive center where they help folks who are having struggles getting pregnant -- it should be easier work for Mom -- we'll see.   She is scheduled for another back injection next week, so that should give her some relief.  Can't wait.

Well, Elder -- we don't have much to share this week -- same o same o around here --- can't wait to hear how your week has been --- and get more of those lovely pictures.  That was quite the sexy hat you were wearing ---

Later,

Dad

--

Love, Elder Tyler Scott

Fwd: This Week

Dear Readers,

This has probably been the most successful week in this area so far. Our teaching pool has expanded to 9 investigators! Woot! Maxene our furthest progressed has a baptismal date set for Christmas Eve, it was an awesome experience watching her learn and grow and see the spirit work on her so strongly. Real testimony builder. 3 of our investigators, Surinder and her 2 daughters, that went awol a week before i got here called us up and told us they were coming to church on sunday! they asked for a script to se if they could get baptized as soon as possible. Robert a reinvestigating former is hoping to lead his family to the truth and be baptized in january! Michael and Tammy, not the most progressing but we are working with them, we will see what happens. Markeice is an 11 year old son of a less active member who wants to get baptized and sing in the choir. He will hopefully drag his mom to church with him! Our 2 newest investigators are Art (a 20ish year old and his mom and sister), the first time i met him i got the impression that i know he will be baptized and his mom has a rock solid belief in god! And las but not least, Emery, the husband of a Recent convert of about a year, who is pretty much just asking "where do i sign?" He is so ready (and he has taken the lessons before). So pretty much the work has taken off in the area and i am really enjoying it. Its even starting to wear me out... Anyways, ive been reading in Ether lately, and its amazing to me how much of a parrallel the jaredites are to modern society, scary.  

--

Love, Elder Tyler Scott

Fwd: November 28th, 2011

The mission office will be moving to a new location on Monday, December 12, 2011. The following is the new address and phone number:

California Ventura Mission
3301 West Gonzales Road
Oxnard, CA 93036

(PLEASE MAKE SURE PEOPLE KNOW THIS)
Phone: 805-485-1034
Dear Readers,
Meanwhile in the california ventura mission, Captain Elder Scott was hunting heathens and saving souls. Usual Super hero stuff. Anyway its been a good week. We are teaching alot more recently, and we've got our own little mojo going on. Its pretty cool. Our little ward is starting to become more active. Thanksgiving was pretty sweet. We ate dinner 3 times! We even have some leftover pie. I sent off for some refills under doctor chamberlains instruction so hopefully that works. All 3 of our investigators are getting close to being dunked, no dates yet though so i will keep you posted. No package yet.There was a drive by shooting in our neighborhood on thanksgiving, 2 people killed 5 shots fired. Its pretty sketchy. But i think we will be OK, its not the first gunshot we have heard near us...You probably wont believe it but i sang Count Your Blessings in a Quartet yesterday. I sang the tenor part, it was pretty good and people said i sounded good. so that was cool being able to do that. Sister Vernon asked me to do it since the guy who was supposed to sing was out of town (luckily we had a few chances to practice before then. I guess that's what i get for knowing how to read music... Someone stole the spanish elders hubcap last night haha its plastic! This town is crazy! Anyway thats all for now.

On Mon, Nov 28, 2011 at 8:44 AM, Tracie Scott <tlsw3boys@gmail.com> wrote:

Good morning Elder Scott,

Happy P-day!  How was your week?  How was Thanksgiving? 

We stayed home for Thanksgiving.  We had it with the Puga's, the Rothey's were out of town.  It was very low key and nice.  I had a lot of conversations about the church with Grandma Puga and Karen's sister in law.  They had a lot of questions.  We also shared what you are doing, what a mission is, etc.  Then we just hung around all weekend.  Weston hasn't been feeling well, so we didn't do much.  I did get the Christmas tree up. 

Austin Hansen spoke Sunday.  He leaves this week.  He is nervous but excited.  He has been waiting a long time! It has been a busy time for the Hansen family.

So about your medicine--I am going to call Dr. Chamberlin today and try to figure things out.  I am not sure why you didn't get the Welbutrin prescription.  The Clarinex you can refill by calling the number on the bottle and follow the directions.  It can be refilled.  It will automatically get charged to us, so no worries. 

Did you get the package yet?  Funny that the acne stuff you are using is what I bought.  So now you don't need to buy more.  It wasn't much of a package, but it had your favorite cookies. 

So how are the investigators doing? You mentioned a possible baptismal date.  That would be great.  So you are teaching 3 now?  Any thing else new?

So glad to hear the bed bugs are gone!  Don't worry about Valley Fever, we had that in Tucson too.  I actually had it as a teenager.  You should be fine.  Is your cold gone?

Well, I don't have a whole lot to say.  And you don't write a lot to respond to, so....

Here is my spiritual thought/message.  Yesterday we went over two talks from conference.  I will share from Elder L. Tom Perry--Perfect Love Casteth Out Fear.  He shares how to share the gospel without fear---being a missionary.  He gives three ways for EVERYONE to do this.  

1.  Be bold in our declaration of Jesus Christ--we want others to know we believe.

2.  Be righteous examples to others.  As you are engaged in doing good, being honorable and upright men and women, the Light of Christ will be reflected in your lives.

3.  Speak up about the church.  We have many opportunities to share our beliefs with others.  Engage in two way conversations, ask about their beliefs also.

I thought those were great!  Keep up the good work! Stay obedient and work hard!

Oh, we had dinner at Windcrest with Aurline last week.  She is so great!  It was good to see what you and the boys do/did!

I love you,

Mom    

--

Love, Elder Tyler Scott

Fwd: November 20,2011 Happy Thanksgiving!!!!

Dear Reader(s),

This week has been a pretty good first week of the transfer. We have 3 progressing investigators, and hopefully 2 of them will be baptized before the end of the year. I dont know if someone named cheryl contacted you, but she lives with Maxene who we are teaching. So dont get wierded out. Thanksgiving is going to be lame without all of my family, but we have dinner with one of the families in the ward. Im doing fine on most things as far as clothes and stuf goes. i havent got a perscription for the welbutrin or clarinex yet. the doc was supposed to send it but i think he failed. so i dont know what to do. Im gonna run out soon and havent got any of the packages you have sent yet. So... Yah.... It says i can send for refills though so i am really confused.

On Sun, Nov 20, 2011 at 9:48 PM, Tracie Scott <tlsw3boys@gmail.com> wrote:

Hello Elder Scott,

How are you this week?  How is your teaching going?  Are your investigators progressing? Do you have anyone new you are working with?

How is the ward doing?  Are you having Thanksgiving with a ward family?  What are your plans?  We are not having our traditonal Thanksgiving with the Rothey's, they are going out of town for a soccer tournament for Tori.  We were going to to go to Arizona, but Weston is not feeling well, so we are staying home.  The Puga's have invited us to share dinner together. 

So this week was a little crazy.  Weston hasn't been feeling too well so I have been taking care of him.  Dad was out of town.  He is back now for about two weeks.  He has been growing this crazy mustache for Movember.  It is a charity event to raise money and awareness for Men's health.  He has actually raised some money.   However, the mustache is a bit to get used too.  He looks like he should be riding up on a Harley!  He has only been home about 6 days this month, so I have seen it grow daily!  He will get to shave it on Dec. 1.

I sent you a package, it should get there by Wednesday.  Not a lot in it, but just some things you will like.  I actually had bought the Clearisil Ultra also, so I sent it.  Now you won't need to buy more.

So you made through another transfer.  That is good you are enjoying your companion and that you are together for another 6 weeks. 

I am confused about your medications.  Which one did you get refilled?  The Vyvanse?  You should be needing the Wellbutrin also.  Did you not get that filled also?

Keep the envelope, if you didn't send for the Wellbutrin, you can send the prescription in that one.  The credit card is on file, you don't need to pay for it at all.

(Elder) Darin Gealta came to church last Sunday with his wife.  He came over to the house after---for cookies of course.  He asked about you.  He couldn't believe that you have been out 6 months already.  He is the same guy.  He said it was fun seeing you up at BYUI.  Ben Hoff is getting married on December 20th in Hawaii.  Everyone else is doing well--we have 12 missionaries from our ward.  3 in California!  You, Brandon and Cameron Babcock.  Cameron is in our ward now.  His mom moved into the Apartments.  Austin speaks next Sunday and leaves for the MTC on the 30th. 

Dad got a new calling today.  He is now the cubmaster!  There are about 12 cub scouts.  Hopefully he will be in town for pack meetings.  Pine wood derby's! 

How are your clothes doing?  Do you need new white shirts yet?  I sent some more socks.  How about ties?  Are your shoes holding up?  Do you need anything? 

Well, son, take care and Happy Thanksgiving!!!  I am so grateful for you and for your service!  I am grateful for missionaries that change lives--they changed my life! 

I love you,
Mom

--

Love, Elder Tyler Scott

Fwd: November 14th, 2011

Dear Readers,

THis week we ave been gearing up for transfers, i am staying with elder thomson in south bakersfield.  We almost set a baptismal date for one of our ivestigators but he chickened out, so we will try again next week. This was Robert, he had been taught in the past, but his wife wouldnt let him get baptized. Maxene is one of them, she is thi 70 year old lady who has a lot of health problems but has a huge testimony in the power of healing and the plan of salvation. And our other investigator, Michael is autistic, but he seems to be progressing just fine. 

There is a senior couple here that is assigned to focus on less actives so we dont do much of that, they are way cool, on their 3rd mission, and WAY OLD. Service is always random things that i am sure we dont have liability to do but oh well we are helping people. Tracting, eh... Not so much.
I sent in for the Vyvanse but i havent gotten the perscriptions to refill the others yet, they havent showed up in the mail yet. Sick, like a mini cold but its not really affecting my ability to work, i have a pretty good immune system. Im just worried about Valley Fever. Yikes! We bombed the bedroom with an insecticide greanade.
I dont need any acne stuff i am using clearasil ultra, for christmas though i want a Casio G-shock and some good reflective perscription sunglasses.(maybe oakleys ;D) like elder tingeys or something. mine just are lame and not staying dark, for now i am ok though. im using some cheap dollar store ones.

Anyway, love you all, and its good to hear about home. but remember STAY OFF MY SNOWBOARD! HAHA

On Mon, Nov 14, 2011 at 9:37 AM, Tracie Scott <tlsw3boys@gmail.com> wrote:

Good Morning!

How are you doing this week?  You mentioned you have two people that you are teaching. Tell us more.  What are their names, how they are doing, etc.

What else are you doing besides teaching these two people? Do you work with inactive ward members?  Do you do service projects?  Do you do a lot of tracting?

So you got your medications refilled?  Next year should be a little bit easier.  Our insurance is changing, so medications will go through CVS Pharmacy.  So you should be able to get them from the store directly.

So you have been sick?  What kind of sick?  Bed bugs?? How awful!!  Did you fumigate or did the mission hire someone to do that?  Have your been biten by the bed bugs? 

I am glad you got to see Elder Tingey.  He was fun when he visited.

Well, we are going to Arizona for Thanksgiving this year.  The Rothey's will be gone also.  Grandma really wants us to come.  Nonnie and Papa will be in Mesa visiting Shellie also.  So we will get to see all the family while we are there.  We are driving, so we will leave next Tuesday and return on Sunday.  It will be short. 

Well, not much is different here.  Dad got back in town Wednesday.  We went down town and saw the Lion King play with the boys.  It was really good.  The costumes were amazing.  We had our annual temple day on Thursday.  I am just about ready to seal all the names we have been doing of my family!  Monday night I went to Breckenridge overnight with Phoebe and Kim for my birthday--it was really fun!  Dad left for NY again Sunday, he gets back Saturday.  Weston is looking again for another Eagle project.  Man he has really had a rough time getting a project!  He has also been having headaches all week.  He has really been struggling.  Mason is getting back into Rugby--preseason running, etc.

So I am planning on getting a package sent to you.  I will get it out this week, so that you get it before Thanksgiving.  I will send some written out recipes in it.  Do you want printed out pictures?  I am sending some acne stuff too.  Is there anything else you want or need?  Do you want new sunglasses?  I think your prescription is still on file at the place we got them.

Today my thought is from the conference talk "Missionaries Are a Treasure of the Church" by Elder Kazuhiko Yamashita.  He stated "Your attitudes and the love that you show toward others are very significant messages.  Even though I didn't immediately grasp all the doctrines that the missionaries taught me, I felt of their great love, and their many acts of kindness taught me important lessons.  Your message is a message of love, a message of hope, and a message of faith.  Your attitude and your actions invite the Spirit, and the Spirit enables us to understand the things that are important.  What I want to convey to you is that through your love, you are imparting the love of God.  You are a treasur of this Church, I am so very thankful to all of you for your sacrifice and dedication."  I know this to be true.  When I joined the church, I didn't know or understand everything.  But the Spirit confirmed to me that it was right.  I felt the love, I saw the devotion.  I felt hope and faith for a future filled with love from my Heavenly Father.  Just love those you teach.  Show your love and kindness with a cheerful attitude.  It will be felt by those you serve and teach.

I love you son!  Keep up the good work! 

Mom

--

Love, Elder Tyler Scott

Fwd: November 6, 2011

Dear Readers,

This has been a more successful week, We have 2 official progressing investigators now, an autistic kid and an old lady with a lot of health problems. I have been getting a little sick as well, Its cold, and humid, so its wierd. we taught 8 lessons this week and our performance as missionaries is increasing. We have bed bugs... LAME! So we bombed our room with pesticide for a day. hopefully it worked. Thomas Tingey took us to lunch on thursday! he is doing well and is fitting back into the world well. He got denied at BYU Provo, so he is going to Idaho! Woot! haha. Hopefully he continues to visit you. I dont have much to say, Halloween is lame as a missionary, i miss the scaring part. :/ Anyway Happy Early Birthday Mom! Yes i remembered, its tommorow! hope you enjoy that hand blender. We arent red zoned, thats a different part of bakersfield but its definately not safe to be out at night, to much gangs and violence. Its pretty sketchy but it keeps you on your toes. Which is fun.

On Mon, Nov 7, 2011 at 7:21 AM, Tracie Scott <tlsw3boys@gmail.com> wrote:

Hello Elder Scott,

How are you doing this week?  I enjoyed your letter last week.  I am glad you liked the camera.  It wasn't necessarily a hint, but more pictures would be great.  Plus you will want them.

Well, Dad did his Haunted House on Halloween.  He worked all day on it and finished right at dark.  It was pretty good!  We also moved the fire pit out to the front and had the grill out too.  The weather was great.  So we did hamburgers and hot dogs.  We also did homemade root beer.  We had probably 150 people come.  There were 21 ward families that came.  It turned out nice.  The Hansen's brought Ashley, she gets to have field trips from the hospital now.  She will be released Nov. 18th.  She will then go to therapy every day for some time.  She is walking with special crutches and her eye now opens.  It is getting better all the time. 

The rest of the week flew by.  Dad went to NY again on Friday.  He gets back on Wednesday afternoon.  We are going to go see Lion King-the broadway musical on Wednesday night.  I remember taking you to see that movie.  It was the first movie we took you to.  I was pregnant with the boys and I cried when Mufasa died.

So, my question about what do you do at night was in regards to your statement of being in a red zone and not being allowed out after dark.  So is that true?  What does a red zone actually mean?

Hang in there with the cancellation of appointments.  Missionary work is HARD, but you can do it. It is also the most rewarding work you will do!  Remember in the Book of Mormon how many of the leaders and prophets were discouraged by people's lack of interest in living or hearing about the gospel.  However, serving those you are trying to teach will often soften their hearts.  Just keep finding ways to serve and to love the people.  Turn the work over to the Lord and let Him guide you in what you should do each day.  Stay close to your companion and study together daily.  The answers will come, the work will flourish and you will grow in your testimony and patience.  We all get discouraged, but to overcome discouragement turn to the Lord-always. 

So I am finishing this email at work right now, before a patient comes out.  I was on call today and got called in.  Later, Kim and Phoebe are taking me to Breckenridge overnight for my birthday.  It should be fun!!!  It is also going to snow lightly, so it will be pretty. 

So here is my scripture this week.  I was reading in 2 Nephi 28 last night.  It is a simple verse.  Verse 24--"Therefore, wo be unto him that is at ease in Zion."  It made me think of how often I am uncomfortable in what my calling requires.  If we are at ease, we are not progressing.  You will often not be at ease in your two years of service to the Lord, but that is OK.  That means you are progressing, which is exactly what we are to be doing in our time here.  Progressing and preparing to return home.  Continue on my son!

P.S.  The medical director called to discuss getting your prescriptions refilled.  He said you were a GREAT missionary.  Good job!!!

I love you,

Mom

--

Love, Elder Tyler Scott

Fwd: Re: October 24, 2011

Dear Readers,
This week was pretty good, We did a lot of finding this week, and have got 6 new investigators. It seems like everyone is getting sick around here, we have given like 4 blessings this week. We have also helped some people move this week. We locked are keys in our car yesterday, and had to walk for a while but luckily our office elder saved us by calling a locksmith. Especially because we were in a dangerous part of the area and it was starting to get dark.

So i was ornery, and i opened my birthday present, alright i get the hint, i will send more pictures... But i will send videos instead, Hows that?
So you all went to Magic Mountain... I drove by it a few weeks ago, on my way into bakes, Im so jealous!

On Mon, Oct 24, 2011 at 9:24 AM, Tracie Scott <tlsw3boys@gmail.com> wrote:

Good morning Elder Scott,

Well we are back from California!  We had a good time.  It was actually cold a couple of days, but we still got some good beach time in!  The first day Doug got slammed pretty hard into the bottom.  He came up yelling to Dad to help him.  I am pretty sure he got a concussion.  The waves were pretty rough that day---bone crushers as Dad calls them.  So, Doug didn't get in the rest of the week.  We saw a lot of dolphins and some seals.  I got sunburned--typical!  We rode the bikes around a lot, ate a lot of donuts and just hung out.  Dad and the boys went to Magic Mountain and rode the crazy roller coasters.  Then stayed for the Haunted stuff that night.  Dad left for NY from there. 

Yesterday was a good day at church.  The talks were really good.  The topic was on sacrifice.  Becca Munsey spoke about how she quit Poms this year because she didn't agree with the other girls values.  She talked about how she has danced for many years and the sacrifice of giving up something she loved her senior year, but she knew it was right.  Loretta McCollough spoke about ways we sacrifice daily.  She talked about repentance, tithing, missionary service and enduring tribulations.  Then Ryan Murri spoke and shared a great story.  I thought you would really like his story, It is titled  The Birdcage--author unknown.

There once was a man named George Thomas, a pastor in a small New England town.  One Easter Sunday morning he came to church carrying a rusty, bent old bird cage, and set it by the pulpit.  Several eyebrows were raised, and as if response, Pastor Thomas began to speak.

"I was walking through town yesterdat when I saw a young boy coming toward me, seeing this bird cage.  On the bottom of the cage were three little wild birds, shivering with cold and fright. I stopped the lad and asked, "What you got there son?"

 "Just some old birds" came the reply. 

"What are you going to do with them?" I asked.

"Take 'em home and have fun with 'em.  I'm gonna tease 'em and pull out their feathers to make 'em fright.  I'm gonna have a real good time." 

"But you'll get tired of those birds sooner or later.  What will you do then?" 

"Oh, I got some cats.  They like birds.  I'll give 'em to them." 

The pastor was silent a moment.

"How much do you want for those birds, son?"

"Huh?! Why you don't want those birds, mister. They're just plain old field birds.  They don't sing, they ain't even pretty!"

"How much?"

The boy sized up the pastor as if he were crazy, and said "Ten dollars?"

The pastor reached in his pocket and took out a ten dollar bill.  He placed it in the boy's hand.  In a flash, the boy was gone,  The pastor picked up the cage and gently carried it to the end of the alley, where there a a tree and a grassy spot.  Setting the cage down, he opened the door, and by softly tapping the bars, persuaded the birds out, setting them free.

Well, that explained the empty bird cage on the pulpit, and then the pastor began to tell this story.

"One day Satan and Jesus were having a conversation.  Satan had just come from the Garden of Eden, and he was gloating and boasting.

"Yes sir, I just caught a world of people down there.  Set me a trap, used bait I knew they couldn't resist.  Got 'em all!"

"What are you going to do with them?"  Jesus asked.

"Oh, I'm gonna have fun! I'm gonna teach them how to marry and divorce each other, how to hate and abuse each other, how to invent guns and bombs and kill each other.  I'm really gonna have fun!"

"And what will you do with them when you grow tired of that?"

"Oh, kill 'em. Damn 'em."

"How much do you want for them?"

"Oh, you don't want these people.  They ain't no good. Why, you take them, and they'll just hate you.  They'll spit on you, and curse you and kill you."

"How much?"

Satan looked at Jesus and sneered, "All your tears, and all your blood."

Jesus paid the price.

He picked up the cage.

He opened the door...

Brother Murri says hi.  He said he always loved having you in class.  He said he served in a bad area of crime in England, he even got beat up.  He said you will be protected.

So, how is the area aside from the crime?  How is your companion?  Do you do service projects? 

We need to start thinking about refilling your medicine again.  Can you talk to Sister Castro about that or do I need to call her again?

We will send some pictures soon---I have one with us and Elder Tingey.  He shared some great stories about you.

So you want to cook huh?  WOW!  I will gather some recipes.  Here is a quick chicken enchilada recipe.

Boil chicken--then cut up or shred.  For you and your companion-two to three chicken breasts will be enough.

Mix 1 cup sour cream, 1 can cream of chicken soup, 1 can diced green chiles and shredded cheese.  Then just layer corn tortillas--break them into pieces--they won't be as dry then. Chicken and then the mixture.  You can even add some hot salsa to the sour cream mixture.  When it is all layered in a baking dish--casserole pan.  Top it with some shredded cheese and bake at 350 for about 30 minutes.

Let me know how it turns out.  By the way, did you get the package I sent?  Do you need anything?

Well, I need to run.  I love you son.

Mom

--

Love, Elder Tyler Scott

Fwd: Re: That's it!

Sorry! Busy!
Meds are fine
SwEeT Im StOkEd for the recipes
We are in our car now, yes were all good on dinners
My companion is awesome
Usually Food, but sometimes at member dinners im not quite sure.
We play bball on pday

On Mon, Oct 17, 2011 at 10:56 AM, Tracie Scott <tlsw3boys@gmail.com> wrote:

Hello son!
You didn't write much!
How are you doing on your medication?  Do you have about a month left?
Yes, I will send you recipes. 
How do you get around? Is your car fixed? Do the members take care of you-dinners?
How is your companion?
What do you typically eat?
What do you do on p day there?
I love you,
Mom

--

Love, Elder Tyler Scott

Fwd: Monday October 17

I wouldn't recommend sending anything here, People get jumped here alot. and we live in one of the most dangerous parts in our area, so the chances of me getting it are slim. Pretty sure our neighbors are drug dealers, there is always odd things happening there and it always smells like pot... so send to the mission home please...

Tingey came by! Sweet! i am glad you all got to meet him, he is probably one of the coolest people i have ever met! i am glad he got the gifts to you all.

This week  has been frustrating, our whole teaching pool has blown off all of our appointments, and we are struggling to find people to teach. But it seems like my being here is making a difference, more people are showing up to church, and Thomson tells me that because i am comfortable and talkative around people, (unlike his last comp) people are really warming up to me. So thats good news, hopefully we can get some success in our work.

You Ditched CHuRcH!!! Vile sinners! haha just kidding.

On Mon, Oct 17, 2011 at 7:10 AM, Bret Scott <bnscott2@gmail.com> wrote:

Hola Elder Scott --

We've had a fun week.  First off we hope you  are well and are settling into your new area with Elder Thomson.  How long has he been in this area?  Did you inherit a lot of families in your teaching pool?  We sent you a package, to the mission home -- it will probably be a while before you see it, since it was shipped UPS.  It is half as expensive to ship things UPS than with the postal service.  You said to send things to the mission home, but why?  You gave us your address @Bakersfield, why can we just send things there? 

We finally met the famous Thomas Tingey -- he called Friday and came over later in the evening.  We talked and talked and he shared all the stories with the great Elder Scott.  He is awesome.  He was planning to attend the temple on Saturday  morning so we asked him just to stay at our house overnight ( in your bed ) so he didn't have to get a hotel.  We had fun.  Later he went with me to play volleyball at the stake center with our co-ed ward team -- that was fun too.  Thanks for the birthday presents! haha -- he told us all about them and the investigator that gave them to you etc.  Pretty funny.  He said mom's cookies were "like Crack" because they were so addicting.  He was great.  He shared a lot of the spiritual experiences that you and he had --- it was so awesome to hear how much you have grown in the few months you have been out.  We're so proud of you.

Mason and Weston are now 17yrs old -- we had dinner with the Rothey's on Friday --- cake & ice cream later ( with Thomas Tingey ) --- Mason got some snowboarding pants that match his flaming jacket, Weston got a new snowboard pants/jacket combo -- since they had both outgrown their stuff. 

We left for Newport Beach on Saturday morning, so we're currently just a couple of hours from you -- we're having fun relaxing and soaking in the sun.  We've been playing in the surf, Brother Rothey got flushed pretty good on Saturday --- mom things he suffered a concussion.  The waves were really rough.  So we ditched church yesterday, spent the day on bicycles and what not around here @Newport Beach --

Thomas said that the work in Bakersfield is considerably different than in T.O.  He said that while he was there ( twice ) he was "good" with the local gangs, and said that they "had the missionaries' backs" -- I hope you are able to find some good folks to teach and get a chance to teach a lot.

No recent news on Ashley's recovery.  She's got a lot of rehabilitation / physical therapy each day.  She has several different types of therapy each day. The Doctors seem to think that she will make a full recovery, but it is taking longer than what they all hoped.  She'll be @Craig hospital for another month, then she'll get to come home to finish her recovery ( hopefully ).

Well, gotta run, Mom says to make this note from her too --- we don't have a good internet connection in this place, so I'm using the wi-fi hotspot on the mobile phone.... Remember we love you and pray for your success and safety daily.   Your brothers say hi.

Love Dad,

--

Love, Elder Tyler Scott

Fwd: Tingey

Elder Thomas Tingey ( Elder Scott's trainer ) came to visit us on October 14 -- we had cake and offered some to Elder Scott.

Fwd: October 10, 2011

That is a pretty funny story.

Dear Readers,

This week has been crazy. Here in bakersfield we have now moved into one of the most dangerous parts of the city, muggings shootings, the works... It is pretty ghetto, aparently it is one of two areas in the mission that are in red * which means its dangerous to walk around at night... And all in this first week, Our car broke and has been in for repairs since Wednesday, We been on bikes, it rained cats and dogs, our apartment started leaking, Our bikes have been having tons of problems and i have been having to fix em. At least i am good at jerry rigging and fixing stuff. Oh and our phone doesnt work. So if i get shot, you can have my stuff ;D jk, i think we will be ok. My New companinons name is Elder Nathan Thomson, he is from alberta canada. He is way cool and i have served around him before. (Woah, i have left greenie status... wierd...) He is as tall as me, and likes basketball too. Our new address is

1000 Pacheco Rd Apt. 107
Bakersfield, CA 93009

But still write to the mission address to avoid confusion.

Anyway, im still having fun and am loving my new area so no worries, i dont know enough to tell you much about it though so, sorry.

Did Thomas Tingey bring you my package?

On Mon, Oct 10, 2011 at 9:11 AM, Bret Scott <bnscott2@gmail.com> wrote:

Another week gone.....

So my trip to NY last week was quite eventful -- on Monday when I was traveling to NY -- there was an incident at the IBM site in Sterling Forest, NY -- there is a long back-woods road that is the access to the IBM facility -- the power, communications, and other lines run into the facility on telephone poles running along this road.  Apparently a dump truck or garbage truck drove down the road with its dump trailer tilted up -- and it caught those lines that were crossing the road -- he pulled down 4 telephone poles before he realized what had happened.

This severed all the telecommunications lines into the IBM facility and closed the road both ways into the site -- so we couldn't even get to the site after traveling across the country to get there.

That was interesting -- later on in the week, as I was leaving the site, I came around the bend in my trusty rental car ( SUV ) and lo and behold 2 deer standing in the road -- thump -- I sent Bambi into the next world.  It crushed the front of the grill on the rental pretty good but I thought it was otherwise OK.

The next morning I called the rental place to let them  know about the accident and fill out the required incident paperwork -- but the car was driving fine other than the bent-up grill.  So I didn't worry too much about it. 

Then, on Friday as I left to head back to the airport to come home, the stupid car overheated and I had to stop.  They called a tow truck and I had to have the car towed back to NYC -- well by the time the stupid truck got there, and the car loaded on to his truck, it was prime rush-hour traffic so I missed my flight.  I had to quickly book another flight but there were no other flights out of LaGuardia that evening ( that had any seats left on them ) -- so then I had to get over to JFK --- one of the employees of the rental car place drove me like a madman to JFK so I could get on that one -- and there I was met with HUGE security lines and barely made it on this new flight on time -- it was a nightmare.

So, moral of the story -- don't hit a deer.

Ashley is progressing litle by little -- the Hansens were able to bring her home yesterday for 5-6 hours -- it sounds like they'll be able to do that every week, but she won't be leaving the hospital until Nov 18 now -- she's very discouraged.  Everything seems to be healing OK, but she's having to do rehab to get those fine motor skills back.  Her left eye is still problematic, it doesn't track well with the other eye -- and she can't move it "out" to much - -she can move it up, down, and in pretty well.  Her eyelid is still quite droopy so she's very self-conscious about it.  The doctors think she'll recover completely, but it's going to be a while.

Your brother Wes is down in the dumps -- he has been dealt a poor hand lately what with the driving, and now the toe --- so he's not liking his life right now -- they're going back to the doctor today to get another opinion as it is hurting again pretty badly today.  Arrggh.

Well, let us know what your new address is, your new companion's details etc.

We love you -- Talk to you soon.

Dad

On Mon, Oct 10, 2011 at 9:03 AM, Tracie Scott <tlsw3boys@gmail.com> wrote:

Good morning Elder Scott!

How did your transfer go?  How are you settling into Bakersfield?  How is your new companion?

I have heard the weather is A LOT hotter there!  People have said be glad it is October and not the summer!

Well this week was eventful here.  Dad was in NY, so you know that usually means something will happen.

So, Weston had plantar warts again.  We had  the same treatment done in August that he has had in the past.  He even had it just last August.  BUT, we didn't go out to Nino Valenti.  We went to one of his partners here in Littleton.  Anyway, he has been healing from that.  He has many in one area, so a lot of injection and cutting around the little toe and fourth toe.  So Monday he started having worse pain.  He came home at lunch and I looked at it.  His fourth toe was very swollen and red.  I called the doctor and we went in.  They put him on antibiotics and pain medication.  He was in SOOOOO much pain. He was also not walking to well on it.  SO, he missed work and school.  He wasn't getting better, so Tuesday night he got a blessing.  Even Ben Tenney thought his foot looked discolored.  It was now moving into his foot.  Wednesday morning, his toe began to look black on the bottom.  SO, again we went into the doctor.  He said "let me numb it and drain the puss".  So we agreed.  Well, he didn't let the medicine kick in and fully numb Wes, so Wes felt the cutting and squeezing.  He was already in terrible pain.  The doctor basically cut a chunk out of his toe.  A little mini surgery, right there in the office!  So, Wes has been on crutches.  No working, no swimming, no drive test, no school.  He is really discouraged!  We are hoping it is healed enough by next week so he can play on Fall Break.  Oh, and his birthday is this week!  So, he is a bit bummed.

That was basically my week.  In addition to having a ton of things for church.  MANY phone calls and emails and texts this last week!  It was crazy.  Brother Armstrong broke his wrist riding his bike.  Steve Hatch broke his foot in basketball.  And many other things going on.  Bishop mentioned that we were the walking wounded ward!

Well, this weekend we will actually be arriving in CA.  We are going to NewPort Beach for fall break vacation.  Kind of weird.  When we went two years ago, we drove through Bakersfield!

I am looking forward to being away. 

The temple re opened.  It had been closed since August.  They got rid of the cafeteria.  We now have a little waiting area where the cafeteria was.  That will be nice for families when the weather is cold.

I went on Friday with Sister Grant.  She was baptized last year.  She took out her own Endowment on Friday.  Then I stayed and did initiatory on 5 names of mine.  Saturday morning we had a RS session at 7am.  I took my five names and handed them out.  It was exciting to get them done.  They had just had the baptisms done in July by the youth before the temple closed.  I now have some sealings to do.

It snowed lightly on Saturday.  It is finally getting chilly here.  It has been in the 80's.  Then BAM!  Saturday snowy and in the 40's.  Crazy Colorado!

Well, I am anxioius to hear from you to see how things have gone this week. 

Here is my scripture of the week:

Mosiah 2:22  And behold, all that he requires of you is to keep his commandments; and he has promised you that if ye would keep his commandments ye should prosper in the land:  and he never doth vary from that which he had said; therefore, if ye do keep his commandments he doth bless you and prosper you.

That scripture makes me think of mission rules.  If you follow the mission rules, you will be blessed and prosper.  Be obedient son.  You will be watched over, protected and you will prosper in the work.

I love you,

Mom

--

Love, Elder Tyler Scott

Transferred!

Dear Readers,
This has been an odd week in the mission field. Not much has happened on account of the fact that i was sick for a few days with awful stomach pain and diarrhea. Yay. Its been nice here in TO [Thousand Oaks] but it is time to move on. I have realized how much i have learned reading in my journal and reminiscing. I am so glad i write in it every day because i can actually have a tangible record of my progress, its awesome. I am getting transferred to South Bakersfield now so this should be fun, i hope the work will be more progressive than here. Its an uphill battle with all our investigators. Im sad because i wont get to baptize Ellen, but anxious for a new setting. I am going to miss all the wonderful people in this area and YES time is flying!
Conference was awesome! i love president Monson's Cheery disposition and humor! I loved how holland made me feel like a vile sinner as a football coach in priesthood session, he laid down the law! i have so much more of an understanding and respect for conference i wish i had paid more attention when i was younger.

Mom, I broke my sunglasses... again, after fixing them...
I need another journal soon.
I would like some more cds.
Birthday, Hmmm... Maybe a watch or something, idk?
Bike is all good i replaced the shifters.
MORE COOKIES and some recipes, im turning out to be a pretty proficient cook :)
I'm sending a package with Elder Tingey for your birthdays. So be on the lookout for him stopping by.
That is all..

On Sun, Oct 2, 2011 at 8:58 PM, Bret Scott <bnscott2@gmail.com> wrote:
Greetings Elder Scott !

Well, by our calculations you should be having transfers this week -- we're betting you will be involved.  Let us know as soon as you can, we're dying to know where your next adventure might be.

I sent you a copy of the letter that I sent to my mission president on my way out of the mission field.  I sent it via dearelder.com but I'm not sure they actually copied you on the note in email.  I'll send it here again too, just in case.   I wanted you to read some of the things that I mentioned in that letter -- things that I learned that were important in order to have the most success in the areas I served.  See if you can find those, let me know what you gleaned from that letter. 

I've been going through all my mission stuff --- reminiscing about all the adventures I had in Argentina.  Its funny because alot of the things you tell us were the same kinds of things I wrote in my journals.  I regret not writing more details in my journals -- because now, 22+ years later, it is hard to piece together what happened.  I scanned all the negatives I had from pictures I took, I found over 300 pictures -- alot of them were crap, alot had me with people I baptized or were very close to, or both.  Make sure you write in your journals who these people are so you can remember the things you did and saw and share them with your kids someday.

The reason this has all come up was because Bro. Hansen and I were talking to Austin -- who is getting ready to go to Buenos Aires, Argentina in a couple of months -- so I said I'd come over and tell him all about the experiences I had and share my recommendations for him.

One of the things I realize from reading all my journals is that -- we wasted alot of time.  It probably did not seem like it at the time, but you have to realize that you are only in the mission field for 2 short years, which is about 102 weeks total.  Each day you probably have about 12 hours of usable time to find &  teach, if you do not make the most of each of those days, soon your week is over and you will not have met your goals for the week, and soon your weeks will be over and you'll be saying to yourself that you could have done more.  So, take my advice and avoid those regrets.  Do not waste a moment of your time not getting along with your companion, or being stubborn with things that cause you and he to not see eye to eye.  I know that you and I have had our differences through they years, mostly because, son, I think you are EXACTLY like me.  The things that interest you,  the things that don't, your inclination to "have fun" with the people you meet etc. -- all these things you have shared are unbelievably familiar as I read my journals.

There were areas on my mission about which I wrote wonderful things -- how I felt so blessed to have been assigned there at that time, and we had so much success.  There were others where It was pure drudgery -- every day a painful series of events through which I had to suffer.   The differences ( according to my own notes between those areas were 1) my attitude at the time.  Was I humble?  Was I being cocky?  2) How well I gelled with my companion 3) how hard I was working 4) how obedient to the mission rules I was being ( no matter how stupid they may have seemed )

So I'm including a couple of those pictures here -- you may not have seen these ( in fact I can almost guarantee you haven't since, they've been in negative form for the past 20 years ).  Can you believe that your old Dad was so young?  It's kinda funny.  In the picture where my comp and I are standing in a "pool" with a sister in white -- we actually found that "font" that day, filled it as fast as we could, and had 2 baptisms that day.  This lady had been wanting to be baptized but we did not have a font to baptize her in, so when we finally got our hands on it, we finally got it done.  That was the area called Marcos Juarez -- me and 3 other missionaries opened the area -- there hadn't been missionaries there ever before.   I was actually the branch president and had to conduct the Sunday meetings etc., do interviews etc. --- we started finding old members of the church that had obviously fallen away, and slowly the church started growing.  That day we got the font, was the first 2 baptisms ever in Marcos Juarez.

So what did you think about conference?  I will have to listen to it over and over again to catch the messages -- its hard to get the meaning of things when  you're sitting here at home with all the distractions ( that's read Weston & Mason ) around --- I did like the message this morning from Elder Tad R Callister in which he said the Book of Mormon is either from God or from Satan -- there is no middle ground.  He bears his testimony that it IS from God.

Well, Elder Scott -- you have been in California, now for going on 5 months.  It's amazing how time flies.

Update on Ashley -- she's at Craig rehabilitation hospital.  She is doing great although she's very discouraged and impatient.  Everything seems to be progressing towards normalcy faster than everyone thought -- except for her left eye.  It is still having issues, it is getting better, but very slowly -- so she's upset about that.  She'll probably be in that hospital for at least another month -- then she'll be home to continue rehab there ( I believe ).  We're all pulling for her.

Well Tyler -- I am off to New York in the morning, so I am writing you this tonight -- I'll be back at the end of the week, <sigh>.  I love you and hope you are doing well.  Remember who you are and what you're there to do.  Before you know it, it'll be over, so no regrets!

Until next week,
Dad

On Sun, Oct 2, 2011 at 8:58 PM, Bret Scott <bnscott2@gmail.com> wrote:

Elder Scott --
I have been reminiscing about my mission experiences, looking at pictures etc. and I came across this letter I wrote to my mission president at the end of my mission. I thought you might find it interesting to hear what I learned on my mission and what I found to be the secret of success. I hope it helps you find the same success. This was written with pencil in Spanish, so I've tried to translate it back to English here -- so it reads a little choppy -- but you get the gist.
----------------------------------------------

Beloved President Lindheimer,

At the end of this stage of my life, I can look back and say that it has been an experience more than pleasant. The service that I have provided has been useful and the fruits have been many. I hope the Lord will tell me, "Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things".

I have really learned the importance of the work we do as ambassadors of the Lord Jesus Christ. I have seen changes in people's lives, including mine. I have developed gifts and talents that the Lord has given me, I have matured, and obeyed. The adventure called the Argentina, Cordoba Mission began in Mendoza with a 'Starry-Eyed' boy who could barely speak his new language. Soon I learned to depend on my companion and use him as a model. The scriptures became my companions and in those first few months I came to know the Lord through them. The personal study of the revelations helped me comprehend the "WHY" of my stay here in La Republica Argentina. The difficulties became less important to me, the heat and discomforts became insignificant details. Soon I became accustomed to the rhythm and became a "missionary" like those that surrounded me. Soon I would pronounce the words that I had memorized in the MTC "Having been commissioned of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. Amen" The first time I had said them for real as His true representative. It was marvelous. Gernan Gorbalzcuk could never be erased from my memories.

Like it is always said, the only thing that remains the same is change itself. The Lord relocated me in what seemed another world in Villa Mercedes. Once again adjustments. Adjustments with the new companion. I didn't understand why he didn't want to do this or that, why were we not going over there? Why the change? I decided to remain firm; if my companion supported me, great, if not I would drag him. My eyes were opened a bit more to learn to lead and make decisions regarding our stewardship. My desires were being purified. I desired like never before. "The Eye of the Tiger" grew within me and I wanted to be the missionary of whom everyone spoke. I felt like Ammon "I do not boast in my own strength, nor in my own wisdom… Yea, I know that I am nothing; as to my strength I am weak; therefore I will not boast of myself, but I will boast of my God," I thanked the Lord for giving me the gifts that I was developing, the language came, the missionary attributes were polished in me. I recognized like Ammon that without Him I am nothing. I needed Him and through the Book of Mormon His mysteries were becoming clear. I learned why they call the Book of Mormon "The Keystone of our Religion: A firm testimony that Jesus is the Christ".

Upon desiring more new responsibilities, the Lord gave me more. A new area, new stewardship, new opportunity to grow. In the city of Marcos Juarez, I realized that the Lord had confidence in me. I appreciated that. Like a pioneer, a good example and good behavior toward the locals were essential. My faith in the Lord and His work grew together with my knowledge of the restored gospel. Once again, many mysteries were revealed to me. Even though I did not know much of what was required of me, I knew that anything was possible with the Lord. Sadly my time there was cut short. Another set of circumstances was presented me to be refined even more.

Before this point in the "adventure", I had not realized totally the importance of being "one" with my companion. I saw impairments when that was not the case. I promised myself to be "one" with all the companions that followed. The humility was a big factor. The love for the people of Plumerrillo was more important, other attributes that could improve were added to the growing list. Upon dedicating myself to the work and obeying the rules, the Holy Ghost was my guide. We were literally guided to families who were prepared to accept the Savior – Instant testimony. I observed the love and beauty of the principle of repentance. I saw the weight of sin lifted, the faces brightened, and the miracle of forgiveness. It was all beautiful. I did not want to be in any other place. To serve the Lord and help the Argentines was pure joy. The success and momentum there brought with them unjust desires. I wanted to advance and be a leader. I wanted to be "seen" by all the others. But, once again, the Lord taught me "Be patient, my son, for it is wisdom in me, and it is not expedient that you should [advance] at this present time…Stand fast in the work wherewith I have called you,… and you shall be lifted up at the last day. Amen." It was clear that He wanted me to remain where I was, that I should not worry myself about greater responsibilities at that time. That I was to be patient. "OK, Understand" I agreed. The thought did not cross my mind again. But… as Berugo Carambula used to say….

It is said that the Lord works in mysterious ways and for a second time I was transferred to replace Elder Cullum who was mysteriously taken sick for a second time. I believe in God. I know he lives. In Catamarca, it all came together: the love for the people and my companions, a positive attitude, faith, knowledge, personal revelation, diligence, and wisdom. It all summed up to be success. "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth". I experienced miracles. I saw the lives of families completely turn around. I loved them. I still love them. My companions and I were and are "one". I am what they were, and what they taught others, a compilation. The Holy Ghost was my companion during baptismal interviews, and He never failed me. "men are that they might have joy.." That was pure joy. To leave was detrimental; I almost could not do it. But my stewardship there ended and I was given another. Constant progress.

I returned to familiar land. In Santa Ana the challenge was to be a good example and serve the other Christian Soldiers. There I leaned to direct the elders, a great responsibility. One time after another, I saw the marvel of repentance. The people need us. I lamented to see the people need and and to hear them say "no my son, at this stage in my life, I cannot change". Why do they reject it? Why do they not open their eyes? I suppose that I was taught the importance of free agency. I continue to acquire wisdom, once again.

The change did not stop. Now a place called Leones. A land somewhat familiar. The Lord loves me and knows what I need. With the responsibility of Zone leader together with the management of a branch in Zion, it demanded much of me. Never will I forget what I experienced there. I mended, repaired, straightened, and intended to set right the affairs as best as I could. Patience and long-suffering were necessary for me. I saw lives destroyed because of the disillusion caused by sin. I made myself a promise that I would never get myself into a position where I would have dig out of such a deep hole. Wickedness was never happiness. I saw it, I don't want it. I have received plenty. The gospel has blessed me beyond all other and in many aspects I had not even realized it. I totally appreciate it now. Humility was necessary for me once again. I enjoyed the work and the accompaniment of the Holy Ghost. Service is Joy.

The adventure is ending. I have seen much progress in myself, like in others. I am better. I served others and I helped them to help themselves. I have done was commanded of me. Now I end these circumstances and will continue in others
I feel well and happy for what I have done. I am grateful for the stewardship that has been given me. It has made me better.

Thank you
Elder Bret Scott
----------------------------------------------

--

Love, Elder Tyler Scott

Fwd: This week in the Mish

Almost Missed me. I'm as good as gravy. Doing great in fact, i would like more musica if possible but no rush. Health strength beastly as always while people crumble in sickness around me ;D. Testimony always growing but getting there. Companion Eh hes alright, still ironing out kinks but mostly we get along fine.

On Mon, Sep 19, 2011 at 12:03 PM, Bret Scott <bnscott2@gmail.com> wrote:

Sorry, its been crazy.

Ashley is back in CO @ Swedish hospital.  Long recovery ahead, but getting a little better here and there.

How's everything?  Need anything? Health strength? testimony? companion?

On Mon, Sep 19, 2011 at 1:00 PM, Tyler Scott <scott.tyler@myldsmail.net> wrote:

Dear Readers,

It looks like i have nothing to respond to this week.  This week was fun. We have aquired 4 new investigators which brings our teaching pool up to 7 now. One of our investigators is a kid and his mom. The kis is ranked 3rd in the state of california for skateboarding! and hes only 12! He is a pretty chill guy and his mom is perfect to teach right now because of some trials in her life. We went mountain biking again today, which was fun. Im learning a lot about how my bike works especially since i have been working on it. My thinking is that if i am beating it up enough that it needs maintenance, than i am using it to its full potential. I replace the shifters this week and that was not as easy as i had hoped but, i figured it out. I dont have much else to say today so forgive me. Keep bugging my friends to write me.

BTW: Hows Ashley?
--

Love, Elder Tyler Scott

Fwd: Re: September 11

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: "Tyler Scott" <scott.tyler@myldsmail.net>
Date: Sep 12, 2011 6:04 PM
Subject: Re: September 11
To: <bnscott2@gmail.com>, "Tracie Scott" <tlsw3boys@gmail.com>

Dear Reader(s),

Ok to start off with, Crongratulations Mason on your liscense and stuff, enjoy the car, because it will take care of you as long as you return the favor. Dont try to be to dashing or daring to impress people, and if your in a hurry, take direct routes. Dont try to speed through neighbourhoods, it never works. Be safe and concientious of others on the road, even if they are jerks. ALWAYS look before taking off at a stoplight, i cant tell you how many times i have been scared but protected because i followed dads advice. And Last but not least, Driving is a priviledge, not a right, you have to earn it, or you will lose it. But it is ok to have fun doing it! So listen to Mom and Dad, even though you may think you know better, take it from your punk older brother, THEY REALLY DO KNOW BETTER! Love yah, Good Luck and Work Hard.

Weston, dont be jealous, you will have your chance as well, just ask the Shavliks. Ryan had his license for months before Andrew, be nice and dont treat him like a cheufer. And be a good navigator! Everyone needs a copilot!

 Ok. So Ashley is in The ICU. Yikes, i hope she can pull through, and i will definately keep her Mckells Mom and The Hansen family in my prayers. Keep me updated. But Remember that the lord works in mysterious ways.

Ok so now i will give you the summary of my week. We did a TON of door to door treacting this week. Our Zone goal was to beat Bakersfield in Declarations (short testifying opportunities), Who ususually leads the mission. Because over a third of the mission is in bakes. We ended up becoming the leader for this week in the mission which hasnt happened in a long time with a total of 322 Declarations! A new record! And there is only 18 missionaries in our Zone as opposed to Bakes 30something! Hoorah for Israel!!!

We also got 4 new potential investigators this week and are getting really close to my first baptism! YES! Im stoked and i love the time i get to spend teaching!

Yesterday we met a professional Rugby player and coach. His name is Kodo and he is from Fiji! He is huge and could Eat me! But he invited us back!

We went mountain biking again this week. i am tearing my bike apart :/ So now i need to replace the front derailer shifter. hopefully i can do it cheap! But for how much i spent on this bike the use i have got out of it has been phenominal! hooray for free bikes! haha!

As i continue to study i feel that my knowledge is increasing as well as my capacity to teach, i am in late alma, and i hope that i can finish it by the end of the transfer. We will see. Btw those Pictures are the bes i got, sorry, take it or leave it thats all of them!

On Sun, Sep 11, 2011 at 5:45 PM, Bret Scott <bnscott2@gmail.com> wrote:

Elder Scott --

It's been a very emotional week.  Mason passed his driving test on Tuesday so I'm out of the carpool business and I don't have to drive them to seminary anymore freeing up my morning hours!!! Yippee!!  He's been driving all over creation and getting them to and from work and to and from practices etc.  It is SOOoooo nice!!  Weston is still working to get his eagle project moving -- he did get some response from the guy he is trying to get to sponsor the project ( centennial water ) so hopefully things can start moving there soon.

We  had a ward campout this weekend up on Lookout Mountain -- just Mom and I went, Weston & Mason had to work etc. so could not attend  -- plus Mason is realizing that the cost of gas sometimes outweighs the fun of an event ;)    We grilled up some nice tenderloins and corn-on-the-cob and tried to make everyone jealous as they ate their KFC etc.

Elder, yesterday was a very horrible day for us, and our ward.    Last night ( 9/10 ) at 7pm MT --- Ashley Hansen was involved in a very serious car accident up in Rexburg.  She and McKell and McKells' mom were involved --- they were stopped at a crosswalk letting pedestrians cross, and a big truck with a trailer hit their car from behind.  Ashley is hurt pretty badly and was air-evac'd to Idaho Falls.  She has been in the ICU and has a fracture at the base of her skull, some bleeding in her brain.  It is pretty serious.  We have been a mess all day -- Steve and Mary flew to Idaho Falls with Bishop Olsen late last night so they were at Ashley's bedside within just a few hours of hearing about the accident.  McKell's mom was also hurt pretty badly ( broken back ) and will require surgery.  Mckell was not hurt.   Ashley has been unable to move her hands/arms on her right side so we suspect there may be other serious issues.  It has been an emotional day around here.  The next few days will tell more about her prognosis and what all will be involved in her recovery.  Please keep her ( and her mom & dad ) in  your prayers --- we tried to fast for them today as a ward.  Everyone is super worried about her.

Austin asked how you were doing, he said he will try to write you.  I will send him your address.  He doesn't leave for the MTC until the end of November -- it will have been 5 months since he received his call.  Thats a long time!  His address is

2642 Rockbridge Way
Highlands Ranch, Colorado 80129

We got your pictures, you'll have to explain some of them -- Darth Vader?  Temple wedding?  What is up with that?  The pictures of the flag-raising at the top of the hill were pretty cool, but I think you said that event was back in June, right?  Can I request that you send pictures with YOU in them?  Have someone else take the picture so you can be in it!

We had stake conference today -- President Grover gave a great talk about members' influence on each other.  He gave a good analogy about nuclear medicine and about how the radioactive particles injected into a patient will allow doctors to use a special camera to see the extent of progression of a disease.  He compared this to how when we live the gospel, that influence can be felt by others because we radiate hope, happiness and love. 

Another brother, a new member of the high council ( I forget his name ) gave another analogy --- about sharing the gospel.  He said if a stranger offers you a plate of warm brownies, you are hesitant to partake -- but if a trusted friend shares the same plate with you, you don't hesitate to devour the delicious brownies.  Even though its the same plate of brownies, they are received in completely different ways.  This was likened to members of the church sharing the gospel with friends, it is much more readily received, if the giver is a trusted friend -- so we as members should make sure we share our beliefs and warm brownies with our friends and families as it will be received much better than when strangers knock on a door to share the same.

I hope everything is going well for you and your companions there in Ventura.  I have to go back to NY this week for another customer event, I'll be gone thru Saturday.  I love you and wish you the best.  Be good, do good.  I'll see you soon.

Love Dad.

--

Love, Elder Tyler Scott

NOTICE: This email message is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply email and destroy all copies of the original message.

Dear Brother and Sister Scott

September 9, 2011

Dear Brother and Sister Scott,

I have had the opportunity these last 3 weeks to serve as your son's companion.  We have a lot in common!  We both love mountain biking and snowboarding.  I've enjoyed learning about Elder Scott.  He is very dedicated to the things he believes in.  He gets along with people and the members here really love him.  He is a great missionary.  The second lesson I taught with him as to a woman named Ellen.  The lesson started out slow, but as we started sharing some scriptures with her, the Spirit made his presence known.  We all felt it.  Then Elder Scott boldly invited her to be baptized.  She accepted without hesitation.  Your son will be a positive influence in the lives of many people.  In the short 3 weeks I've been with him, he has helped me become a better missionary.  He is still a little shy when it comes to talking to people in the streets and tracting ha ha, but he can relate to people well and I think he will quickly overcome that shyness.
 I look forward to the rest of the time I server with your son and the things I can learn from him.

Sincerely,
Elder Jason Williams

Fwd: Labor day 2011

Dear Readers,

As far as the biking pictures go.I had a helmet silly haha that was after wards i was wearing my hat. It has healed up perfectly like wolverine style. And Chillax of all the missionaries with us i have the most experience. No worries i know what i am doing :D.

Anyway. This week has been pretty good. we pretty much spent the whole week updating our ward lists and finding out if people still live here. Alot of the people we went to go see told us to buzz of unfortunately. As far as our teaching pool goes We have dropped down to only 3 investigators. 2 of them dropped us over the last couple weeks, :( but we will be having a baptism on October 1st if everything works out. Yesterday we went mountain biking again and i tore it up! All the experienced adults that were with us think i am an animal when it comes to downhill haha. they make me lead the way because of how fast i am, its pretty awesome. i have definitely put this bike through the test and i will be replacing the plastic petals because i broke both of them! GNARLY hahaha. Anyway i am loving my mission so far and hope you are all doing well at home.

I am getting along really well with my new companion, at first i thought he would be really lame, but i have warmed up to him now. I still miss Tingey, my "father", dearly but he will be visiting you guys when he goes home in October. he lives in Colo Springs area.

I am doing well here i feel, it is very hard because of the pride of the people of this area and they don't want much to do with us, but it is very rewarding when finally get in a door. I don't have any huge spiritual experiences this week, and every time i have had one i have let you know. we did have testimony meeting this Sunday and i love to hear all the different ways and things people bear their testimonies on. I don't really know what else to say, I'm healthy-ish and i have finally lost 3 pounds! YES

On Mon, Sep 5, 2011 at 9:32 AM, Bret Scott <bnscott2@gmail.com> wrote:

Happy Labor Day!

Elder Scott -- another week gone.  I hope this letter finds you in good health and good spirits.  That picture you sent of the road rash on your elbow made me laugh.  You can't afford to get hurt like that, take it easy -- did it heal up OK?  I'm sure it is red, tender, swollen and overall generally sore.  I'm not sure how I would know that...How exactly are you mountain biking without a helmet etc?  That doesn't seem like a good activity -- perhaps you should be playing BBall or something a little less dangerous.

Not sure if you're going to be able to email today -- the library is probably closed due to the holiday, hopefully you can get it done tomorrow.

Our hockey team won the league championship -- it was a rough game -- we won 4-3 in OT -- Brother Rothey got hurt -- some loser on the other team checked him head first into the boards and jacked up his neck.  He came back to the game in the OT period and I believe he made the winning assist.  I've attached a picture here.

Derek Munsey left for the MTC this week -- how exciting.

Mason finished his eagle project write-up last night -- and signed off -- so he'll be getting his drivers license after he passes his driving test tomorrow ( frightening ).  Weston is still struggling to get his project going -- but as soon as he can connect with the guy, he should be on his way too.  Fingers crossed.

How is the work going in Thousand Oaks?  How is your teaching pool?  Anyone progressing?  Any commitments to baptism? 

How are you getting along with your companion?  Have you settled in with the anti-Tingey-ness?  Pray for more love for him and be kind and forgiving.  Remember that the best thing you can do is love him, serve him, respect him and you two will be come close and therefore immovable in your teaching power. 

The church is starting a big media campaign here in Denver to promote the mormon.org website -- they want all of us to fill out facebook-like profiles so people can relate to real-life mormons.  They will be running TV ads and internet ads etc. promoting it.  The TV ads are pretty well done from what I've seen.  Should be interesting.

Our Elder Smith is being transferred this week -- he's been out just as long as you it seems.  He's been here for 2 transfers one each with 2 companions.   You might remember he is from Mesa, AZ.

Anyhoo Elder, I'm burning prime holiday daylight here inside on the computer.  My bike broke on Saturday so it is in the shop, I'm hoping they call so I can still get a ride in today.... we'll see.

We love you.  We are very proud of you.  Please try your best to let us know how things are going with you.  Things like:

1.  How are you feeling?
2. Energy level?
3. Attitude level ?
4. Things you've learned this week ?
5. Testimony builders
etc.

Talk you you later!

Dad
--

Love, Elder Tyler Scott

Fwd: August 28, 2011

Dear Everyone,

This week has been a lot...different. Now that Tingey isnt with me i have seen many of his traits manifest in me. its kinda wierd, and my new companion, Elder Williams is a polar opposite of him. He is from Saint George, UT and is the youngest of 8 kids. I have kind of been senior companion for now because this is his first time being district leader and he doesnt know the area. It has been stressful, and i guess i am kind of a control freak... But i am working on it. There is another elder that was in my MTC group that is training and apparently next transfer my companion thinks i can, so we will see what happens. On Friday we set an investigator with a baptismal date of October 1st, it was a really spiritual experience because she came to her own realization of the truth, and admitted she needed to let her pride go.  Today we went mountain biking again and i endo'd big time at the end, but i got huge air! I was probably going a little too fast, but i took  a jump, and when i landed there was sand and my front end sunk, it could have been a lot worse though, i attached a picture haha. Our suicidal guy is doing great he has started cleaning himself up and has been to church the last couple of weeks. I did get my care package and i found my sunglasses!!!

Anyway everything is going well and i am working hard to show my new companion the ropes.

On Sun, Aug 28, 2011 at 8:53 PM, Tracie Scott <tlsw3boys@gmail.com> wrote:

Hello Elder Scott,

How are things going with your new companion?  Tell me all about him?  Are you a senior companion now?  Are you also a trainer?

How is it going with the new contact?  How is the guy that you gave a blessing to? 

Did you get your care package?  I will send your garments and eye glasses cleaner this week.  I wanted to wait and make sure you weren't the one being transferred.

So this week has been a crazy week for us.  Monday was Back to School night.  Mason has Mr. Prouty for Honors Chemistry, he also has Mrs. Orsini for English.  Tuesday Dad spent in Boulder, then played hockey that night.  He has been complaining of wrist pain since the middle of June.  He has nursed it along and thought it was healed.  Well, after hockey it hurt A LOT worse.  So he finally succumbed and went to the doctor Wednesday!  SO Wednesday was the DAY OF THE WEEK!  Weston had an appointment for his plantar warts---have to get those taken care of before swim begins again in September.  Then Dad had his appointment.  His wrist is not broken, but he has to have an MRI--they think he has torn a ligament.  Possible surgery!  Then Mason hurt his shoulder playing church softball.  Oh, how I hate softball now!  So when I took him to work on Monday, they sent him home.  Because he had so much pain lifting trays, they said he couldn't come back to work until he had a doctor's note.  SO we went to the doctor Wednesday afternoon.  Well, they think he did the same thing Dad did to his.  So another MRI and possible surgery!  Weston also has been having shoulder pain with swimming.  He now has one clavicle sticking out further--it is slightly dislocated---most likely from shoulder problems.  He also went the National Jewish a few weeks ago to have a thorough work up for his asthma!  So it has been a little crazy here!

Then, Thursday IBM called Dad and told him to go to NY.  Hurricane Irene was expected to cause damage to areas in which there are businesses that IBM supports.  SO Dad works in Disaster Recovery, so off he went.  He got there Friday afternoon.  He went to the store and got water bottles and PB&J stuff.  The storm has subsided now.  Just dealing with flooding.  He spent Saturday in the IBM building.  Then he spent today in the hotel.  They couldn't get back to the IBM building due to the flooding.  He just got a ticket to fly back home on Tuesday!  I need to talk to Trina to see how Chris is since he is in North Carolina.

So this week should be MRI's and decisions!  Mason is supposed to do his driver's test September 6th, hopefully no surgery so that he can get his license.  I REALLY need them to be driving!

So the Poulsen's spoke in church today.  You probably don't remember them.  He has been the bishop of the Sand Creek Ward-the young single adult ward.  Now it is Tom Redd.  Anyway, they spoke on what they learned from their time serving in the ward.  They talked a lot about seeking after the one.  They talked about those that came back to church after periods of inactivity.  They said that those individuals would come to church with their heads down, no light in their eyes.  The ward would open their arms to them and love and friendship them back into activity.  Those individuals would often comment on how they thought that living away from the church and the "rules" would be easier, but instead it made their lives harder.  They talked about the importance of seeking out those that need a friend.  The spirit was very strong in the meeting.  Then RS and Priesthood was about the conference talk on Atonement by C. Scott Grow.  It fit very well with what the Poulsen's talked about.  Healing and forgiving others and ourselves. 

It has been a busy week and a busy Sunday.  My day began with two meetings before church.  Church, HT's, VT's, Mason had a YAC meeting--oh yeah, he got called to YAC, then the boys had BYD.  Lots of phone calls and emails.  Walked the dogs, scriptures and prayer.  I am pooped and ready for bed.  Let another week begin!

Here is my scripture of the week--we read it tonight.Jacob 2:18-19  "But before ye seek for riches, seek ye for the kingdom of God. And after ye have obtained a hope in Christ ye shall obtain riches, if ye seek them; and ye will seek them for the intent to do good--to clothe the naked, and to feed the hungry, and to liberate the captive, and to administer relief to the sick and the afflicted." 

You are doing this.  You are seeking for the kingdom of God, to do those exact things.  You are not like other 19-20 year old boys--seeking for riches.  I am proud of you.  The Lord will bless you with riches to administer to those in the California Ventura mission.  Keep up the good work.  The boys LOVED hearing from you.  They went to bed already, so I will make sure they get an email or note off to you next week! 

I love you,
MOM

--

Love, Elder Tyler Scott