HOLA FAMILIA
AHHHHHH! Well I am going to write you as fast as I can and hope that Ill be able to get everything in. Well sorry about yesterday...don't worry I am fine we just didn't have internet in Carmen and now I am in Durazno cause we came for district meeting! Speaking of which I gave my second meeting today and hope that the spirit was present to help testify to the missionaries of what they can do better. It went really well and we talked about being committed to our goals and using our time to do the most important things. I am really blessed to have an amazing district where everyone works extremely hard and is helping me to continue to do the same. Yes I went to Deo last week for the leadership meeting! It went great and I learned many new things and got to see a few other friends. Elder Taylor is now home, he left last week and I said goodbye. That means I only have two of my five companions still in the mission....time is flying! I also went to the distribution center to buy some stuff, so when it shows up on my account you'll know what it is. It is right next to the temple and while I was there I saw a some couples visiting from SLC! It was really cool to talk to some members of the church, in English, and from Utah. Cool but also weird cause the words in English came out a little different. They all told me to keep working and that I am heading down hill now. It seems so weird to me to know that of the whole two years I am out, I am already done with more than half. This week I am going to do another intercambio with the ZL´s. Elder Sanchez who is from Spain is going to come to Carmen and work with me. I am really excited to be able to learn more and find new things I can do to improve my area. My comp will work in Durazno and then we are going to come back to have another meeting with all the district leaders on Saturday. Then I have to do my first interview! It seems really weird that I am now doing what others did before. Our district has a goal of 15 baptisms this month and I know that they will all work hard to do their part. My comp and I have a goal of 3 and I know that if we work our hardest and follow the spirit we will find the people God is preparing for us. We have been focusing on giving it our all everyday and to not go home without having done everything possible to baptize. I really feel a difference and I know that if I continue doing this then I will find the success that I want to have. Oh something cool....there is a new missionary in my district. His name is Elder Jones and he is from Denver Colorado! GO BRONCOS! He said he is a fan and actually likes how Tebow pulls through in the forth quarter. What part of Colorado is Charlie from? He asked me and I couldn't remember? Anyways this week went really good and really fast. It really is incredible how time flies....I feel that the harder I work, daily, the faster it goes. I am loving the mission and the new responsibilities I have to gain new experience. I know that I am exactly where I need to be at this time in my life and mission. I was talking to our branch president on Sunday and he was saying that sometimes the Lord keeps us in an area for a certain amount of time so we can make necessary changes. I hope that I can make these changes and really become what the Lord wants and needs me to be. Before I always thought it would be easy to be a leader but now that I am one its not so easy. I know that as I rely on the Lord, He will give me the need direction for my own area and for those in my district. I love you all and am so grateful for an amazing family who supports me in all I do. I hope I can continue to be the missionary that you all think I am and more importantly what the Lord wants me to be. Today is a rainy day but I am excited to go out to work. We have lunch with Hna Ester and its always good, so we are starting excited and prepared to find the people to baptize. I love you all and cant tell you how much you mean to me! I know that this church is true, without doubts. I know that the Book of Mormon is true and love reading it and receiving revelation every day! I know that everything that happens in our lives happens for a reason. I know that this is the way that our Heavenly Father leads and guides us. I know that Christ lives and loves us and that He gave His very life so we can repent and be forgiven. I love you all tons! Got to go, until next week!
CON AMOR
Elder Bowden
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Elder Bowden is District Leader!
SALUDOS A LA MEJOR FAMILIA DEL MUNDO!
Well....we will just get the news over with right away....I am staying in Carmen! Thats right I will be here for 6 months, meaning that I have been in only two areas for half of my mission. I guess thats where the Lord needs me and he will continue to help me become what he needs me to be through these experiences. I have some more news.....I am DISTRICT LEADER! I dont know how it will go or how well I´ll do, but I am excited to help the missionaries in my district work hard. I have two hermanas (sister missionaries), the zone leaders, and my old district leader with his new comp in my district. I am a little bit nervous but very excited to be able to work in the position where the Lord has called me. It only means that I have to work even harder here in Carmen to set the example for the others. I know it wont be easy but it will be a challenge that I am willing to take and know that as I strive to do my best the Lord will bless me, my area, and the district. I am still comps with Elder Condor and hope that I can continue to help him learn and become a better missionary. I am going to work on having more charity for everyone (my comp, the members, the other missionaries, and those in my area). I have to go to Montevideo tomorrow for a leadership meeting and then I will return to have our first district meeting and start working again. We had a pretty good week of work. The family that hasnt been to church in two years came again and this time the dad came also! It was another small success story that we had. We are still trying to do all we can to get some investagators to come and know the Lord will bless us for our diligence in the future. We finally have a ward mission leader who is excited and willing to work! I hope that we can help him and all the members to catch the spirit of missionary work. I know that if we can strengthen the branch here it will help with all the new converts that will be baptized. Yes dad, the weather you described is normal. Yes some times we have to conduct the meetings when the branch pres doesbt come. Sorry that the email is so short this week but its all I have to say and Im going to go write letters now anyways! Nice work on your spanish mom....keep learning! Its not as hard as you think....well I guess if youre in a country for two years that speaks it and have the gift of tongues it just kind of comes. Well its raining today and we are kind of wet. At least its not so hot! I love you all and will talk to you next week! I know that the church is true. I know the God and our Savior live. I know that they are aware of us, they know whats best for us and when. I know that they lead and guide us daily through the inspiration of the Holy Ghost. I know that the Book of Mormon is true and I LOVE reading it. My testimony of Christ and of His restored gospel is strenghtened with every verse and every page I turn. I know that as we do our part, work our hardest, and strive to keep all the commandments, the Lord blesses us with the strength to do so and overcome temptation. Love you tons
CON AMOR
Elder Bowden
Well....we will just get the news over with right away....I am staying in Carmen! Thats right I will be here for 6 months, meaning that I have been in only two areas for half of my mission. I guess thats where the Lord needs me and he will continue to help me become what he needs me to be through these experiences. I have some more news.....I am DISTRICT LEADER! I dont know how it will go or how well I´ll do, but I am excited to help the missionaries in my district work hard. I have two hermanas (sister missionaries), the zone leaders, and my old district leader with his new comp in my district. I am a little bit nervous but very excited to be able to work in the position where the Lord has called me. It only means that I have to work even harder here in Carmen to set the example for the others. I know it wont be easy but it will be a challenge that I am willing to take and know that as I strive to do my best the Lord will bless me, my area, and the district. I am still comps with Elder Condor and hope that I can continue to help him learn and become a better missionary. I am going to work on having more charity for everyone (my comp, the members, the other missionaries, and those in my area). I have to go to Montevideo tomorrow for a leadership meeting and then I will return to have our first district meeting and start working again. We had a pretty good week of work. The family that hasnt been to church in two years came again and this time the dad came also! It was another small success story that we had. We are still trying to do all we can to get some investagators to come and know the Lord will bless us for our diligence in the future. We finally have a ward mission leader who is excited and willing to work! I hope that we can help him and all the members to catch the spirit of missionary work. I know that if we can strengthen the branch here it will help with all the new converts that will be baptized. Yes dad, the weather you described is normal. Yes some times we have to conduct the meetings when the branch pres doesbt come. Sorry that the email is so short this week but its all I have to say and Im going to go write letters now anyways! Nice work on your spanish mom....keep learning! Its not as hard as you think....well I guess if youre in a country for two years that speaks it and have the gift of tongues it just kind of comes. Well its raining today and we are kind of wet. At least its not so hot! I love you all and will talk to you next week! I know that the church is true. I know the God and our Savior live. I know that they are aware of us, they know whats best for us and when. I know that they lead and guide us daily through the inspiration of the Holy Ghost. I know that the Book of Mormon is true and I LOVE reading it. My testimony of Christ and of His restored gospel is strenghtened with every verse and every page I turn. I know that as we do our part, work our hardest, and strive to keep all the commandments, the Lord blesses us with the strength to do so and overcome temptation. Love you tons
CON AMOR
Elder Bowden
Monday, February 13, 2012
Elder Bowden is extra Spoiled!
HOLA FAMILIA
WOW! Every week I am amazed by how fast it seems time is going! I remember when I started the mission and it felt as if the days went fast. Now I don't know what happens to the days and the weeks go by fast! This week went really well. It wasn't the best in the whole world but I learned lot of new things and had many great experiences. I said last week that I was on a two week letter famine...well that wasn't exactly true. The secretaries were sending my letters to another district that's all, so I got my letters from Grandma Bowden and Ashlee. I also received my FIVE STINKIN packages! That was fun..... :) We had our zone conference on Thursday which was really good! Pres Da Silva talked to us about using the scriptures and the Holy Ghost as our guide or liahona in missionary work. I ``re``learned the importance of following the spirit, relying on the Lord, and leaning not unto our own understanding. It is easier for me to speak Spanish now and sometimes I have the tendency to just talk instead of following what the spirit tells me to say. I`ll keep working on it and I know just as the scripture in Ether says, that my weaknesses will become strong. Oh ya....back to the zone conference and packages. Well after we had been spiritually uplifted, edified, and fed, we got fed physically. We all sat done to eat lunch (the whole zone of Durazno and Florida, about 30 missionaries) which was really tasty. Just when we were finishing up, Pres Da Silva and the ZL`s hawled in a bunch of boxes and put them on my table. I assumed that they were for me and to avoid making everyone else feel....like their parents don't love them, I didn't say anything. Then all the missionaries came over to see if they had received a package. After about 2 minutes of searching they all realized that they were for me and couldn't believe it. Their comments included...HOLY COW, Do your parents know how much that costs?, WHAT?, Did they forget about Christmas?, etc. In all it was kind of embarrassing but I love you all and sure hope I can fit all that stuff in my suitcases! Nice joke by the way...well I don't know if you meant it to be a joke. The box that had my shoes in it was opened and it only had one shoe. The other missionaries told me that it had most likely been robbed. I thought...great! I told mom and dad it wouldn't be stolen and look what happened! I was kind of freakin out. Then Pres Da Silva (the father figure in this case) in all his knowledge and wisdom said...Elder the Guayans didn't take you shoes cause when the box came it had USPS tape on it which means it was done in America. He also said that if they were to take your shoes they would take them both not just one! This calmed me done a bit and then I realized it was probably in another box. That you arrived at the Post Office with both shoes in the box and the guy said...don't send them together in a box to South America or they will get stolen and you had to take one out. I later opened the one that contained the other shoe! THANKS SO MUCH! You guys are great and I loved all the gifts and birthday wishes! We also had a good day on Friday. The assistants to president came and had an intercambio with us to see how that area is doing. They said they didn't come to see if they needed to close it but what we could do to make it better and get the work rolling. We had some pretty good success and they were really positive about the future. They helped me to realize that we have to have faith and cannot doubt. If we doubt then that is when God ceases to work miracles. I know the Heavenly Father has much in store for me and this area, all I have to do is work hard and forget my doubts. On the other not so spiritual updates...I ate some pretty good stuff this past week. I asked Hna Ester if she could prepare mulita for us and she said no. She said she doesn't like cooking it and that there aren't too many around at this time of year. Then just that night after we left, a man came by her house selling them, so she decided to buy one and cook it for us. Just so you know it is in the pictures and is known to you guys as armadillo? I also had a lunch meat for my sandwich on P-Day, that was make from horse! YUMMY! I am excited for this upcoming week and know that we will have a great one! I am not for sure what is going to happen but we do have changes this week and we receive the calls on Sunday. Ill let you know if I stay or go and to where. That is about all I have to tell you this week. I enjoyed all the letters that came with the packages and also heard from Elder Durrans and my trainer this week...good stuff! I love you all and you mean more to me than anyone else in the world! You are the greatest family anyone could every ask for....even though you send packages and I tell you to wait. I hope that you are all doing well and have no doubt that Heavenly Father is watching over you! I know that this church is true. I know that Joesph Smith saw God the Father and His Son. I know that because of this experience we have the true and restored church on the earth today. I know that the Book of Mormon is the word of God and contains all the answers to what ever questions we could possibly have. I know this because I have read it, felt the spirit, and received these answers myself. I know the only way to be truly happy is live the gospel. I know that some times when we have trials it is hard to see the light and be happy, but as we keep striving it will come and having a positive attitude only makes it that much better! I love you all and know that families can be together forever, for this I am very grateful. I am thankful for all the great people who have been amazing influences in my life, including those who don't even realize it! I know that the Savior lives and loves us. He personally knows how we feel at all times in our life because He once experienced it. I know that as we turn to Him and apply His atonement in our lives we can enjoy the cleansing, purifying, and healing power it has. Until next week!
CON AMOR
Elder Bowden (I only have the powerful title for short two years...I have to take advantage!)
WOW! Every week I am amazed by how fast it seems time is going! I remember when I started the mission and it felt as if the days went fast. Now I don't know what happens to the days and the weeks go by fast! This week went really well. It wasn't the best in the whole world but I learned lot of new things and had many great experiences. I said last week that I was on a two week letter famine...well that wasn't exactly true. The secretaries were sending my letters to another district that's all, so I got my letters from Grandma Bowden and Ashlee. I also received my FIVE STINKIN packages! That was fun..... :) We had our zone conference on Thursday which was really good! Pres Da Silva talked to us about using the scriptures and the Holy Ghost as our guide or liahona in missionary work. I ``re``learned the importance of following the spirit, relying on the Lord, and leaning not unto our own understanding. It is easier for me to speak Spanish now and sometimes I have the tendency to just talk instead of following what the spirit tells me to say. I`ll keep working on it and I know just as the scripture in Ether says, that my weaknesses will become strong. Oh ya....back to the zone conference and packages. Well after we had been spiritually uplifted, edified, and fed, we got fed physically. We all sat done to eat lunch (the whole zone of Durazno and Florida, about 30 missionaries) which was really tasty. Just when we were finishing up, Pres Da Silva and the ZL`s hawled in a bunch of boxes and put them on my table. I assumed that they were for me and to avoid making everyone else feel....like their parents don't love them, I didn't say anything. Then all the missionaries came over to see if they had received a package. After about 2 minutes of searching they all realized that they were for me and couldn't believe it. Their comments included...HOLY COW, Do your parents know how much that costs?, WHAT?, Did they forget about Christmas?, etc. In all it was kind of embarrassing but I love you all and sure hope I can fit all that stuff in my suitcases! Nice joke by the way...well I don't know if you meant it to be a joke. The box that had my shoes in it was opened and it only had one shoe. The other missionaries told me that it had most likely been robbed. I thought...great! I told mom and dad it wouldn't be stolen and look what happened! I was kind of freakin out. Then Pres Da Silva (the father figure in this case) in all his knowledge and wisdom said...Elder the Guayans didn't take you shoes cause when the box came it had USPS tape on it which means it was done in America. He also said that if they were to take your shoes they would take them both not just one! This calmed me done a bit and then I realized it was probably in another box. That you arrived at the Post Office with both shoes in the box and the guy said...don't send them together in a box to South America or they will get stolen and you had to take one out. I later opened the one that contained the other shoe! THANKS SO MUCH! You guys are great and I loved all the gifts and birthday wishes! We also had a good day on Friday. The assistants to president came and had an intercambio with us to see how that area is doing. They said they didn't come to see if they needed to close it but what we could do to make it better and get the work rolling. We had some pretty good success and they were really positive about the future. They helped me to realize that we have to have faith and cannot doubt. If we doubt then that is when God ceases to work miracles. I know the Heavenly Father has much in store for me and this area, all I have to do is work hard and forget my doubts. On the other not so spiritual updates...I ate some pretty good stuff this past week. I asked Hna Ester if she could prepare mulita for us and she said no. She said she doesn't like cooking it and that there aren't too many around at this time of year. Then just that night after we left, a man came by her house selling them, so she decided to buy one and cook it for us. Just so you know it is in the pictures and is known to you guys as armadillo? I also had a lunch meat for my sandwich on P-Day, that was make from horse! YUMMY! I am excited for this upcoming week and know that we will have a great one! I am not for sure what is going to happen but we do have changes this week and we receive the calls on Sunday. Ill let you know if I stay or go and to where. That is about all I have to tell you this week. I enjoyed all the letters that came with the packages and also heard from Elder Durrans and my trainer this week...good stuff! I love you all and you mean more to me than anyone else in the world! You are the greatest family anyone could every ask for....even though you send packages and I tell you to wait. I hope that you are all doing well and have no doubt that Heavenly Father is watching over you! I know that this church is true. I know that Joesph Smith saw God the Father and His Son. I know that because of this experience we have the true and restored church on the earth today. I know that the Book of Mormon is the word of God and contains all the answers to what ever questions we could possibly have. I know this because I have read it, felt the spirit, and received these answers myself. I know the only way to be truly happy is live the gospel. I know that some times when we have trials it is hard to see the light and be happy, but as we keep striving it will come and having a positive attitude only makes it that much better! I love you all and know that families can be together forever, for this I am very grateful. I am thankful for all the great people who have been amazing influences in my life, including those who don't even realize it! I know that the Savior lives and loves us. He personally knows how we feel at all times in our life because He once experienced it. I know that as we turn to Him and apply His atonement in our lives we can enjoy the cleansing, purifying, and healing power it has. Until next week!
CON AMOR
Elder Bowden (I only have the powerful title for short two years...I have to take advantage!)
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Just Keep Swimming...Just Keep Swimming! :)
HOLA FAMILIA
Well.....this week was....another week in the mission. It wasn't the best in the world but will are going to think positively and say that we had some progress. It was actually another hard week but it did have some results. On Monday we talked to a family who hasn't been to church in two years. We went back to visit them on Saturday, we had a small charla, and they said they were planning on coming to church. Sunday we anxiously waited and they didn't come at nine. They just showed up a little late that's all, they did end up coming! It was a good week as far as the weather goes....nice and cool. It was overcast and rain was announced almost every day. It really didn't rain at all except for yesterday, but it did help cool things down and we didn't get too wet. I am glad to hear that you are all doing great and that you enjoyed the super bowl, even though the Patriots didn't win. I tried to send Michael a B-Day card but I had a few problems with weight and had to open it to remove something and then buy a new envelope to send it. It got it to the post office by Saturday, but the lady said it wont be sent until today. I guesss I just need to keep working hard and focusing on what I can do better personally to show my Savior I love Him. We had an intercambio with the ZL`s this week and it went...ok. He had actually been here in Carmen on an intercambio about a year ago when he was in another area. He said it hasnt changed a bit and that he feels that the people here are just tired of the missionaries knocking their doors. He said it would report to the assistants how it went. I guess we will see what happens in the future. None the less I still have at least two more weeks to work here in Carmen and do all that I can to make it better then I found it. I always receive motivation and inspiration from my great parents and want to let them know I am grateful for all they do and their diligence in writing some thing heart felt every week. Hey if its possible do you think that you could get me a copy of that book? The one that dad was quoting as he wrote. If not then its all good but it is really good and it actually helped my a lot! This Thursday we are going to Florida! No the that one in the good ol` US of A but here in Guay! We have zone conference with Pres Da Silva and his wife. I hope that I will be able to continue to seek revelation for my area and make it better in any form I can. I know that the Lord has sent me here for a reason and that He trusts me to do what He needs done here. I should be receiving my packages on Thursday, so Ill let you know next week all the exciting news! I've kind of been bummed....I have had like a two week letter famine. I don't know why, but I just haven't received anything? Well I guess I better rap this up so that my comp can write his family too but I just want to let you know you are all GREAT! I LOVE YOU TONS! I am excited to hear that you are getting ready to pick out sheep and are waiting for spring. I will give you updates of how fall is here. It feels really weird to know that at this same time a year ago, I was still in the CCM. It will be even more weird when the time comes that I was here with my trainer! I thought about it the other day and this is my second and last February in the mission. I know I still have some time and need to accomplish a lot more but I am on the down hill slope. I know that this church is true, every principle, without a doubt. I know that no matter how hard times seem, that Heavenly Father is only a prayer away. I always have to remember that I man is never taller then the time when he is on his knees. I know that God knows and loves us. He hears and answers our prayers and only wants what is the very best for us! I know that we have a living prophet on the earth today who leads and guides us by revelation. I know that we have a Savior and Mediator with the Father and He is Jesus Christ. I know that He suffered, willingly, pain beyond comprehension for US. I know that we can be healed and cleansed from all sin and suffering. I don't always understand how this is possible but always strive to have faith in the atonement of Christ and do my best to apply it in my life. I know that we have a purpose in on earth and at this very moment. I know that we are children of God and that we can return to live with Him and our families forever. I know that in our challenges and trials it is some times hard to see the light and be happy, but we are blessed when we don't quit. I know that the only thing Heavenly Father wants for us is happiness and some times we have to know a little of the other side to realize that joy. I love you all sooooooooo much! I miss you...only a little bit....ok, a lot but I know I need to be here right now. I will be looking forward to receiving packages and hearing from you next week! I sure hope that there is pictures...... :)
CON AMOR
Elder (the one who never uses his first name anymore) Bowden
Well.....this week was....another week in the mission. It wasn't the best in the world but will are going to think positively and say that we had some progress. It was actually another hard week but it did have some results. On Monday we talked to a family who hasn't been to church in two years. We went back to visit them on Saturday, we had a small charla, and they said they were planning on coming to church. Sunday we anxiously waited and they didn't come at nine. They just showed up a little late that's all, they did end up coming! It was a good week as far as the weather goes....nice and cool. It was overcast and rain was announced almost every day. It really didn't rain at all except for yesterday, but it did help cool things down and we didn't get too wet. I am glad to hear that you are all doing great and that you enjoyed the super bowl, even though the Patriots didn't win. I tried to send Michael a B-Day card but I had a few problems with weight and had to open it to remove something and then buy a new envelope to send it. It got it to the post office by Saturday, but the lady said it wont be sent until today. I guesss I just need to keep working hard and focusing on what I can do better personally to show my Savior I love Him. We had an intercambio with the ZL`s this week and it went...ok. He had actually been here in Carmen on an intercambio about a year ago when he was in another area. He said it hasnt changed a bit and that he feels that the people here are just tired of the missionaries knocking their doors. He said it would report to the assistants how it went. I guess we will see what happens in the future. None the less I still have at least two more weeks to work here in Carmen and do all that I can to make it better then I found it. I always receive motivation and inspiration from my great parents and want to let them know I am grateful for all they do and their diligence in writing some thing heart felt every week. Hey if its possible do you think that you could get me a copy of that book? The one that dad was quoting as he wrote. If not then its all good but it is really good and it actually helped my a lot! This Thursday we are going to Florida! No the that one in the good ol` US of A but here in Guay! We have zone conference with Pres Da Silva and his wife. I hope that I will be able to continue to seek revelation for my area and make it better in any form I can. I know that the Lord has sent me here for a reason and that He trusts me to do what He needs done here. I should be receiving my packages on Thursday, so Ill let you know next week all the exciting news! I've kind of been bummed....I have had like a two week letter famine. I don't know why, but I just haven't received anything? Well I guess I better rap this up so that my comp can write his family too but I just want to let you know you are all GREAT! I LOVE YOU TONS! I am excited to hear that you are getting ready to pick out sheep and are waiting for spring. I will give you updates of how fall is here. It feels really weird to know that at this same time a year ago, I was still in the CCM. It will be even more weird when the time comes that I was here with my trainer! I thought about it the other day and this is my second and last February in the mission. I know I still have some time and need to accomplish a lot more but I am on the down hill slope. I know that this church is true, every principle, without a doubt. I know that no matter how hard times seem, that Heavenly Father is only a prayer away. I always have to remember that I man is never taller then the time when he is on his knees. I know that God knows and loves us. He hears and answers our prayers and only wants what is the very best for us! I know that we have a living prophet on the earth today who leads and guides us by revelation. I know that we have a Savior and Mediator with the Father and He is Jesus Christ. I know that He suffered, willingly, pain beyond comprehension for US. I know that we can be healed and cleansed from all sin and suffering. I don't always understand how this is possible but always strive to have faith in the atonement of Christ and do my best to apply it in my life. I know that we have a purpose in on earth and at this very moment. I know that we are children of God and that we can return to live with Him and our families forever. I know that in our challenges and trials it is some times hard to see the light and be happy, but we are blessed when we don't quit. I know that the only thing Heavenly Father wants for us is happiness and some times we have to know a little of the other side to realize that joy. I love you all sooooooooo much! I miss you...only a little bit....ok, a lot but I know I need to be here right now. I will be looking forward to receiving packages and hearing from you next week! I sure hope that there is pictures...... :)
CON AMOR
Elder (the one who never uses his first name anymore) Bowden
Monday, January 30, 2012
Elder Bowden's Sickness! :)
HOLA FAMILIA
Well....I have some not so good news to tell you this week. We started this week off very well and had an intercambio with our district leader. I worked in Durazno and my comp stayed in Carmen. The next day we had our district meeting and headed back to our area. Thursday morning I woke up and was feeling really wierd....different than usual. It got progressively worse Friday and Saturday and then Sunday I couldnt hardly work. I dont know what it is and I havent been able to go to the doctor because we have to travel to Montevideo. According to my self diagnosis....I am really sick....I would guess that the sickness is.....well its not quite like a cold...or the flu....some thing like ``trunky-titis.`` I am sure I got it from the food I have recently been eating, which would include peach shakes and homeade hangaburs or hamburgers. If not the food I got it from a member from Sarandi de Yi who has been to Utah and told me of the amazing experiences he had at temple square and going to the Manti Pagent. DONT WORRY, I am sure Ill be fine I just have to work a little harder and take the proper medications. Despite the sickness we actually had a really good week as far as work goes. Our numbers have increased from the past week and we are slowly progressing to a baptism. Yesterday we had a lot of good things happen at church. We had 29 people come...the only thing is that nine of them were from the stake presidency and came cause we had branch conference. We had a lady who was inactive for over a year come back for the first time and found out that our branch president has vacation time for the next 20 days. We are excited to be able to work more with him and hopefully reactive some more members and find the few who are waiting for the gospel. We are also going to do an intercambio with the ZL`s this Wednesday and hopefully be able to place a few baptisimal fechas. VAMOS ARRIBA! Elder Condor and I are still excited to work and keep pushing everyday. I found a quote that has really helped me and has become my theme for this time in my mission. It is from Elder Wirthlen and says ``Perseverance is a positive, active characteristic. It is not idly, passively waiting and hoping for some thing good to happen. It gives us hope by helping us realize that the rightoues suffer no failure except in giving up and no longer trying.`` I am going to work on being more diligent, perservering, and doing all I can to make some thing good happen. No I havent recieved any packages yet...I should get them in about a week to two weeks, I will let you know when they arrrive. Thanks for all your constant love and support. You guys are one of the things that helps me keep going when I feel I can't go anymore. Tell Kyle congrats on his mission call and I will be writing him. That's pretty cool that Aaron and Kyle both went and are going to Argentina. That means one more person I'll be able to talk to when I get back! I had some thing else I wanted to tell you this week, but I didn't write it down and at the moment I can't remember. Have fun watching the super bowl and let me know how it goes next week. I am sure it will be about the same for me as far as doing contacts. It is a FOOTball game and not a Fùtbol game, so the Guayans dont really care to much. :) I cant believe that I am already half way through this change and when its over I'll have 13 months! It is going by really fast. I am glad the Annalee got her birthday card and had a good day! I am not for sure what the future holds for me but I know I can look forward with faith. I think I might be here in Carmen for another change which means...ya...6 months in the smallest area in the mission. Its all good though and know it is where the Lord wants and needs me! I know that this church is true and that it is lead by Christ himself. I know that He has called a living prophet to guide us and he recieves revelation for us. I know that no matter how many people reject us and the gospel, it brings greater joy in our lives than anything else! I know because I am living it and enoying the blessings that come daily! I know that families can be together forever! I know that the Book of Mormon is true. It is another testament of Jesus Christ and it along with the Bible contains the fullness of the gospel. I LOVE you all SO MUCH! I am grateful for an amazing family and the amazing oppurtunity I have to share peace and comfort that comes from the Atonement of Jesus Christ. I will be waiting to hear from you next week and know that you are doing great and the Lord is blessing you as He is blessing me!
CON AMOR
Elder Bowden
Well....I have some not so good news to tell you this week. We started this week off very well and had an intercambio with our district leader. I worked in Durazno and my comp stayed in Carmen. The next day we had our district meeting and headed back to our area. Thursday morning I woke up and was feeling really wierd....different than usual. It got progressively worse Friday and Saturday and then Sunday I couldnt hardly work. I dont know what it is and I havent been able to go to the doctor because we have to travel to Montevideo. According to my self diagnosis....I am really sick....I would guess that the sickness is.....well its not quite like a cold...or the flu....some thing like ``trunky-titis.`` I am sure I got it from the food I have recently been eating, which would include peach shakes and homeade hangaburs or hamburgers. If not the food I got it from a member from Sarandi de Yi who has been to Utah and told me of the amazing experiences he had at temple square and going to the Manti Pagent. DONT WORRY, I am sure Ill be fine I just have to work a little harder and take the proper medications. Despite the sickness we actually had a really good week as far as work goes. Our numbers have increased from the past week and we are slowly progressing to a baptism. Yesterday we had a lot of good things happen at church. We had 29 people come...the only thing is that nine of them were from the stake presidency and came cause we had branch conference. We had a lady who was inactive for over a year come back for the first time and found out that our branch president has vacation time for the next 20 days. We are excited to be able to work more with him and hopefully reactive some more members and find the few who are waiting for the gospel. We are also going to do an intercambio with the ZL`s this Wednesday and hopefully be able to place a few baptisimal fechas. VAMOS ARRIBA! Elder Condor and I are still excited to work and keep pushing everyday. I found a quote that has really helped me and has become my theme for this time in my mission. It is from Elder Wirthlen and says ``Perseverance is a positive, active characteristic. It is not idly, passively waiting and hoping for some thing good to happen. It gives us hope by helping us realize that the rightoues suffer no failure except in giving up and no longer trying.`` I am going to work on being more diligent, perservering, and doing all I can to make some thing good happen. No I havent recieved any packages yet...I should get them in about a week to two weeks, I will let you know when they arrrive. Thanks for all your constant love and support. You guys are one of the things that helps me keep going when I feel I can't go anymore. Tell Kyle congrats on his mission call and I will be writing him. That's pretty cool that Aaron and Kyle both went and are going to Argentina. That means one more person I'll be able to talk to when I get back! I had some thing else I wanted to tell you this week, but I didn't write it down and at the moment I can't remember. Have fun watching the super bowl and let me know how it goes next week. I am sure it will be about the same for me as far as doing contacts. It is a FOOTball game and not a Fùtbol game, so the Guayans dont really care to much. :) I cant believe that I am already half way through this change and when its over I'll have 13 months! It is going by really fast. I am glad the Annalee got her birthday card and had a good day! I am not for sure what the future holds for me but I know I can look forward with faith. I think I might be here in Carmen for another change which means...ya...6 months in the smallest area in the mission. Its all good though and know it is where the Lord wants and needs me! I know that this church is true and that it is lead by Christ himself. I know that He has called a living prophet to guide us and he recieves revelation for us. I know that no matter how many people reject us and the gospel, it brings greater joy in our lives than anything else! I know because I am living it and enoying the blessings that come daily! I know that families can be together forever! I know that the Book of Mormon is true. It is another testament of Jesus Christ and it along with the Bible contains the fullness of the gospel. I LOVE you all SO MUCH! I am grateful for an amazing family and the amazing oppurtunity I have to share peace and comfort that comes from the Atonement of Jesus Christ. I will be waiting to hear from you next week and know that you are doing great and the Lord is blessing you as He is blessing me!
CON AMOR
Elder Bowden
Monday, January 23, 2012
Elder Bowden is determined to get a BAPTISM in Carmen!!
HOLA FAMILIA
Another week has come and gone and here I sit writing to family. I remember hearing that time doesn't stop for anyone but never really paid attention, now I know what it means. Prophets have also said the that work of the Lord will always go forward, no matter who or what tries to stop it. I am so grateful that I have the opportunity to be able to be a part of His work and do my best to serve Him. This week was pretty normal as far as the work goes but a lot different in the way I view my area. We had interviews with Pres Da Silva on Thursday and they went really well, not anything like I expected but well. We had to go to Durazno (where the stake center is) to have the interviews and we also saw all the other missionaries. We had a same discussion with our zone leaders about our goals what we can do to have more baptisms. I was thinking to myself, that in my area (Carmen) we won't have a baptism, it is way to hard. I was preparing to tell President all about the branch, the people, and the ``bad situation`` we were in. Well.....that didn't happen! I got in my interview with Pres Da Silva and he told me that he was still waiting for a baptism. He said ``Elder the Lord didn't send you to Carmen to fail. The Lord and I trust in you and know you can have a baptism. Don't use excuses (area, members, people, etc.) as a reason not to have success.`` It definitely wasn't anything that I was expecting to hear but it helped change my attitude about my area. I felt a lot this week that it isn't as easy as I thought it would be to be senior comp. I find that I have to do a lot or some times almost everything by myself while teaching my comp what to do. I am grateful for an inspired mission president to help and guide me. I am grateful that the Lord sends me every where He needs me in order to learn and become what He expects of me. I am eternally grateful for the atonement and the blessing I have to repent. To be able to change, progress, and to become more like our Heavenly Father. I am more focused in finding someone to baptize now and I hope that I will be able to do my part and follow the spirit to achieve that goal. Don't worry I will also work to help those that I fallen away and to rescue the less active. Thanks for the email and all of the updates about the fam. I never doubt that the Lord is guiding and protecting you. Go Giants, not that it really matters. Wow, 107 degrees that is hot! I don't have a lot to write this week I hope that you wont be disappointed in my some what short email. I will be waiting for my packages......as will all the other missionaries, since there are five again. I guess it is alright because you wont be sending me any for my next Christmas or birthday. Its like receiving them all at once instead of over the two years. I know that this church is true. My testimony of it grows daily as I study the doctrine and teach it to others. I love the mission and all the things I get to experience, every thing it makes me learn, and all the changes that occur. I know that our Savior lives. I know that because of Him we can be clean of sin. Often times we remember the things we have done, and feel guilt, but this too can also be cleansed. I know that God knows and loves us and because of this He has revealed His gospel again on the earth today. I know that it was restored in its fullness through the prophet Joesph Smith. I know that we have evidence of all of it and that is the Book of Mormon. I know that book is true and it contains powerful counsel for us in these latter days. I love you all SO MUCH and know that as we live faithful to our covenants as to everyone that has made them, we will one day live together forever! Until next week!
CON AMOR
Elder Bowden
Another week has come and gone and here I sit writing to family. I remember hearing that time doesn't stop for anyone but never really paid attention, now I know what it means. Prophets have also said the that work of the Lord will always go forward, no matter who or what tries to stop it. I am so grateful that I have the opportunity to be able to be a part of His work and do my best to serve Him. This week was pretty normal as far as the work goes but a lot different in the way I view my area. We had interviews with Pres Da Silva on Thursday and they went really well, not anything like I expected but well. We had to go to Durazno (where the stake center is) to have the interviews and we also saw all the other missionaries. We had a same discussion with our zone leaders about our goals what we can do to have more baptisms. I was thinking to myself, that in my area (Carmen) we won't have a baptism, it is way to hard. I was preparing to tell President all about the branch, the people, and the ``bad situation`` we were in. Well.....that didn't happen! I got in my interview with Pres Da Silva and he told me that he was still waiting for a baptism. He said ``Elder the Lord didn't send you to Carmen to fail. The Lord and I trust in you and know you can have a baptism. Don't use excuses (area, members, people, etc.) as a reason not to have success.`` It definitely wasn't anything that I was expecting to hear but it helped change my attitude about my area. I felt a lot this week that it isn't as easy as I thought it would be to be senior comp. I find that I have to do a lot or some times almost everything by myself while teaching my comp what to do. I am grateful for an inspired mission president to help and guide me. I am grateful that the Lord sends me every where He needs me in order to learn and become what He expects of me. I am eternally grateful for the atonement and the blessing I have to repent. To be able to change, progress, and to become more like our Heavenly Father. I am more focused in finding someone to baptize now and I hope that I will be able to do my part and follow the spirit to achieve that goal. Don't worry I will also work to help those that I fallen away and to rescue the less active. Thanks for the email and all of the updates about the fam. I never doubt that the Lord is guiding and protecting you. Go Giants, not that it really matters. Wow, 107 degrees that is hot! I don't have a lot to write this week I hope that you wont be disappointed in my some what short email. I will be waiting for my packages......as will all the other missionaries, since there are five again. I guess it is alright because you wont be sending me any for my next Christmas or birthday. Its like receiving them all at once instead of over the two years. I know that this church is true. My testimony of it grows daily as I study the doctrine and teach it to others. I love the mission and all the things I get to experience, every thing it makes me learn, and all the changes that occur. I know that our Savior lives. I know that because of Him we can be clean of sin. Often times we remember the things we have done, and feel guilt, but this too can also be cleansed. I know that God knows and loves us and because of this He has revealed His gospel again on the earth today. I know that it was restored in its fullness through the prophet Joesph Smith. I know that we have evidence of all of it and that is the Book of Mormon. I know that book is true and it contains powerful counsel for us in these latter days. I love you all SO MUCH and know that as we live faithful to our covenants as to everyone that has made them, we will one day live together forever! Until next week!
CON AMOR
Elder Bowden
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Elder Bowden is Senior Companero! His "little comp" has only been out 6 weeks!
HOLA FAMILIA
WOW! I cant believe again that another week has already past! This past week went good as usual and a pretty normal week here in Carmen. You wanted to know a little about my new comp so before I forget Ill tell you. I really think he is a great kid and has potential to become a wonderful missionary. He is the only member in his family and has only been a member for almost 3 years. He actually knows a lot about the gospel and teaches well. He has asked me a few questions that I thought he would have know but he didn't...oh well. We work pretty well together and are striving to help our area to progress. We got word from the assistants to Pres Da Silva that they want to do an intercambio here in Carmen to see why our area has been about the same for the last 3 months. I don't know what will happen but I hope that when they come they can up us to improve in any way that we can. I don't want to be negative but this area has got to be one of the hardest in the mission. It is really hard for me to think positively but I strive to do the will of the Lord and find the chosen. I don't know what is going to happen but they might even decide to close the area again if they find that there isn't a lot of potential. I really have enjoyed the time that I have been here. It has been hard but it has been worth it and I have really learned lots. Well an update about the weather...ITS HOT! It has been really hot especially these last two weeks. We have heard and seen that it has been above 40 degrees. I am not for sure what that is in Fahrenheit but 42 here is really really hot and I feel it! I luckily haven't really been sun burnt but I am looking good with my nice tan! I bought a watermelon last week... it was really yummy and the best part was that it only cost me 28 pesos or like a buck fifty! I was actually going to ask you how the elections for President are going. There is an hermana here in our branch that told us the Romney has won in Iowa and a few other states. She said it looks like it is going pretty well for him. Let me know all that happens and send me that stuff so that I can vote too! I got lots of Christmas and birthday letter which was really good! One from the stake presidency, grandma Bywater, grandma Bowden, Ashlee, Trent, Elder Durrans, and Aunt Becky and Fam. Speaking of which can you get me their address (Uncle Rod) so that I can send them a letter back. Thanks so much I appreciate it tons! My comp and I are in another district now, we got changed. We are together with the ZL`s and we have a companionship of hermans also. One of them was in the CCM with me and her comp was in the CCM with Elder Condor. We are excited to keep working and to see some changes here in Carmen. I hope that I can do all that the Lord sent me here to do and to fulfill His will and not mine. It is definitely a change being senior comp but I am enjoying it. It pushes me to do a lot better cause I am more responsible. I have been trying a lot harder to rely on the spirit and to seek the prompting that come when we are worthy and looking. I know that this church is true. I know it with all my heart and have no doubts about it! I know that Heavenly Father loves us, everyone of His children. He know us personally and is fully aware of what we need to be happy and return to His presence. I know that families can be together forever and I am so grateful for this blessing! I LOVE my family so much and hope that they invent some sort of technology that will allow me to give them a BIG HUG when I call home for Mothers Day! I know that we can be closer to our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ as we live the gospel. I know that in their holy houses, the temples we can feel their presence. I love the temple and cant wait to be able to go every week when I get home! YAY BC TEMPLE! Let me know how the progress is doing. I am doing great here in Guay, I am glad to here that the rest of the world loves it and thinks it beautiful. I don't think that I need anything else so you should be good to send my package. Just make sure that you send photos....that's really all I want. :) I love and miss you all so much. I know that our Savior lives and that He suffered and died for us. That He knows exactly how we feel no matter what is happening in our lives. His blood contains that power to purify us from all our sins and mistakes and that we can be clean to return to His presence. I know that He can comfort us always and that anyone who will turn to Him through prayer can feel this. I am excited to have hit the half way mark. I cant believe that I have been out for a year all ready and know that it is only going to go faster from here! Ill be writing you next week and maybe some letters! I don't know if Ill send a package cause its kind of pricy but if something shows up then you'll know its from me. You guys are the best! I don't think there is another family in existence that is more incredible than you guys!
CON AMOR
Elder Bowden
WOW! I cant believe again that another week has already past! This past week went good as usual and a pretty normal week here in Carmen. You wanted to know a little about my new comp so before I forget Ill tell you. I really think he is a great kid and has potential to become a wonderful missionary. He is the only member in his family and has only been a member for almost 3 years. He actually knows a lot about the gospel and teaches well. He has asked me a few questions that I thought he would have know but he didn't...oh well. We work pretty well together and are striving to help our area to progress. We got word from the assistants to Pres Da Silva that they want to do an intercambio here in Carmen to see why our area has been about the same for the last 3 months. I don't know what will happen but I hope that when they come they can up us to improve in any way that we can. I don't want to be negative but this area has got to be one of the hardest in the mission. It is really hard for me to think positively but I strive to do the will of the Lord and find the chosen. I don't know what is going to happen but they might even decide to close the area again if they find that there isn't a lot of potential. I really have enjoyed the time that I have been here. It has been hard but it has been worth it and I have really learned lots. Well an update about the weather...ITS HOT! It has been really hot especially these last two weeks. We have heard and seen that it has been above 40 degrees. I am not for sure what that is in Fahrenheit but 42 here is really really hot and I feel it! I luckily haven't really been sun burnt but I am looking good with my nice tan! I bought a watermelon last week... it was really yummy and the best part was that it only cost me 28 pesos or like a buck fifty! I was actually going to ask you how the elections for President are going. There is an hermana here in our branch that told us the Romney has won in Iowa and a few other states. She said it looks like it is going pretty well for him. Let me know all that happens and send me that stuff so that I can vote too! I got lots of Christmas and birthday letter which was really good! One from the stake presidency, grandma Bywater, grandma Bowden, Ashlee, Trent, Elder Durrans, and Aunt Becky and Fam. Speaking of which can you get me their address (Uncle Rod) so that I can send them a letter back. Thanks so much I appreciate it tons! My comp and I are in another district now, we got changed. We are together with the ZL`s and we have a companionship of hermans also. One of them was in the CCM with me and her comp was in the CCM with Elder Condor. We are excited to keep working and to see some changes here in Carmen. I hope that I can do all that the Lord sent me here to do and to fulfill His will and not mine. It is definitely a change being senior comp but I am enjoying it. It pushes me to do a lot better cause I am more responsible. I have been trying a lot harder to rely on the spirit and to seek the prompting that come when we are worthy and looking. I know that this church is true. I know it with all my heart and have no doubts about it! I know that Heavenly Father loves us, everyone of His children. He know us personally and is fully aware of what we need to be happy and return to His presence. I know that families can be together forever and I am so grateful for this blessing! I LOVE my family so much and hope that they invent some sort of technology that will allow me to give them a BIG HUG when I call home for Mothers Day! I know that we can be closer to our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ as we live the gospel. I know that in their holy houses, the temples we can feel their presence. I love the temple and cant wait to be able to go every week when I get home! YAY BC TEMPLE! Let me know how the progress is doing. I am doing great here in Guay, I am glad to here that the rest of the world loves it and thinks it beautiful. I don't think that I need anything else so you should be good to send my package. Just make sure that you send photos....that's really all I want. :) I love and miss you all so much. I know that our Savior lives and that He suffered and died for us. That He knows exactly how we feel no matter what is happening in our lives. His blood contains that power to purify us from all our sins and mistakes and that we can be clean to return to His presence. I know that He can comfort us always and that anyone who will turn to Him through prayer can feel this. I am excited to have hit the half way mark. I cant believe that I have been out for a year all ready and know that it is only going to go faster from here! Ill be writing you next week and maybe some letters! I don't know if Ill send a package cause its kind of pricy but if something shows up then you'll know its from me. You guys are the best! I don't think there is another family in existence that is more incredible than you guys!
CON AMOR
Elder Bowden
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