A Big Bunch of Bowlers

Happy Birthday Lynda

2011-08-02T16:15:00.000-07:00

We Love you all the way from Round Rock!

Bobby, Tiff, Kodi Lynn, & Degan!

Happy birthday mom, i cant wait to see you back in texas. i love you so much and miss you already, well hope you have a good birthday. love Zoe

{fourth}

2011-07-06T17:14:00.000-07:00

Happy Fourth of July!

{Happy Birthday Nan!}

2011-06-23T06:47:00.000-07:00

Happ Birth bae Nan I srre I cubit staey for your birthday Love Kodi Dear Kodi, thank you soooo much! I sure wish we could stay together for my birthday too. I love you and I love that you wrote me a note all by yourself. You are a GOOD girl, Kodi. THANK YOU #9 FOR BEING SO GREAT!!! (I yelled that last part).

Dear Nan, Happy Birthday. You are so nice. I love it when we do scripture study. Me toooo!!! You love the scriptures as much as I do. That's alot! You let me do a lot of stuff that my mom does not let me do. That's what I'm here for. Wile we are in Texas tell Chase and Garrett that I love them. I will tell them when I see those silly boys. Happy Birthday Love Kaidee. I love you. Thank you Kaidee, I love you sooooo much too! AND I MISS YOU TOO! (I yelled that part too).

Mom, I wish I was there with you to celebrate your birthday It's so weird with everyone gone. but since I can't I thought that a letter would be the next best thing. You know I LOVE letters. I am thankful that my children have such a wonderful Nan. They love you so much. I am grateful for your example to me and our family. I love that anytime I need help with a talk or a lesson you are so willing to help I LOVE churchy questions!!! and you have such wonderful ideas. I enjoy sitting on the back patio talking and sitting by the fire. I just came in from the patio (minus the fire). I love you more than I love blogging and thats a lot :) That IS alot, thanks. Thank you so much for always being there and always asking me if I need anything. It's a huge comfort knowing you are so close. Happy Birthday, Love Letti. Thanks so much Letti, I've always been a beginner mother with you, Thanks for your patience with me. Love you, like you!

Dear Nan, You are the best Gradma ever I wish I could be out there to sealabraet with you. You are the cutest grandma ever I wish that I could play with you. You are the funest person (I really do like to laugh with you!) to play with. I wish (I wish, I wish, I wish), I could live in California with you. You shold get a trofy for being the best person ever. Happy Birthday to you love #8 Carys Hey let's you and I a start a trofy club. We could plan and do things that will earn us a trofy from Heavenly Father. His trofy and prize is the BEST EVER!!! And we could laugh a lot. Heavenly Father likes it when we have joy! I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU #8 (Yelling). THANKS FOR THE SPECIAL LETTER!

Dear Nan, I remember the things that we do like on wensday going to go get a shake (Let's make it a mid-week 'brown-topper' when you start back to school) or spend the night at your house while watching the Lakers game together (I'm watching a show about the Lakers tonight, the NBA draft) and having a great time together (with you making your special drinks, yum!). I hope you have a great birthday but sorry that I can not be there se you in California on July 9th (I wish July 9th would hurry up). Love,#5/Chloe Thank you #5! BTW, what is AofF #5? I love you and miss you Chloe. THANKS FOR BEING SUCH A GOOD LITTLE SYDNEY!!!

Dear Mother, When I grow up I want to be just like you only better!!! :) Sis Short and to the POINT! Well Sis, as you have grown up with me and watched me, I really hope you have learned lot's of good things to do and lot's of things to never do (hurray for repentence and the atonement, that's the most important thing I hope you have learned from churchy me). I heart you so much! And miss you (sniff)!

Dear Nan, I love going to California with you cause I love the funny moments (ME TOOOO!) and making smores (do they have s'mores in Texas?) and so I wish you lived out here. Someday! Love Zoe Love you, my brave, good girl #4!!!

Dear Nan, Happy Birthday and I wish that rather you lived out here or we lived down there. Did you know that I am going to be out there July 27? Oh yes, I do know that! I. Can't. Wait!!! We will hike a mountain to a waterfall, we will go to the beach, and we will make goodies together, but most important we will LAUGH A LOT together. I can't wait. Love Livee.

Whats nans favorite color? Green

Degan green

Miles red

Cole green

Rowdy green

Grayson pink

Whats nans favorite food? Anything potatoes

D pineapple

M scrambled eggs

C bananas

R green beans

G bananas

What is nans favorite thing to do? TO LAUGH!!!! I dearly love to do that!

D let us come over and laugh together

M go to the beach and laugh as the waves crash on us

C cleaning the house Cole let's clean together and see if we laugh

R clean up Rowdy, see my response to Cole

G read Oh I love to read too, but it's not my #1 favorite thing in the whole world to do

What do you love most about nan?

D playing with toys at nans Jack's WARS!

M going to nans and letti's house our backdoor opens easier now

C she lets me play no work, just play : )

R I like to hug her Oh Rowdy, what a coincidence, I like to hug you too!

G when she comes over to my house in Round Rock, Texas!

How old in Nan? 54

D 6 x 9

M 23 you would be right Miles, if the question was: what is Nan's favorite number?

C 17 +(Cole's age x Kaidee's age) - Rowdy's age

R 17 Hey Rowdy, did you think that Letti asked what GC # Elliot was? Because you are right!

G 20 Gray, your answer is correct if the question was: how old was Nan when Uncle Bobby was born?

Who are nans kids? Aunt Letti, Aunt Lynda, Uncle Bobby, Uncle Tad, Uncle Cody, Aunt Sydney (and Uncle Thomas)

D Degan and Kodi lynn Yes!

M Letti, Mommy, Iya Yes!

C sydney Yes!

R she never told me her kids names I will tell you who they are when I see you next.

G Chase, Garrett Yes, especially right now!

What does nan like to watch on TV? The Lakers and American Idol

D the wakers : ) : ) : ) : ) : )

M golf : /

C ice age : ) : )

R james martin Not sure if I like to watch him or not, Do you Rowdy?

G sports Lakers yes, the other sports... the end of the game only.

How much does nan love you? To the moon and back (except for Paigee, I love her to the boon and mack), To infinity and beyond, and FOREVER AND EVER!!!!!(and infinity more exclamation marks)!!!!!

D to 199 Wow, that's a lot!

M 23 Miles you are so good at remembering my favorite number!

C the most True!

R 100 miles I do love Miles a lot, 100 Miles would be a lot of love!

G the whole entire world See Moses 1:33, 35.

Who is nans favorite team? The Lakers and any team my 'great' grands are on!!!

D the wakers

M grounder pounders

C the lakers

R the lakers

G grounder pounders

Which kid does nan love the most? #s 1 - 17!!!

D me and kodi lynn and all the other kids Yep!

M miles Yes!

C degan True, and you too, Cole!

R rowdy Correct!

G grayson How'd you know?!

Do you know a secret about nan? Shhh... don't tell Pops!

D she sneaks in her house

M nan loves bouncy balls

C plays hide and seek

R i know how she does the nan wave

G watches tv if the Lakers or Idol is on, or Pops has called me, "kath, you gotta see this"

If nan were an animal what would she be?

D a tiger with blue eyes of course, because I would be a good autobot tiger.

M a penguin cause the guy penguins do all the hard stuff.

C a bird a red-tailed hawk bird to be exact.

R a girl lion wait, don't they do all the work? See Miles animal.

G a baby elephant So cute, a little bit wrinkly, no dieting. : )

Happy Birthday love Craig Another short and sweet note, thanks Craig. Even though you turned me down, many years ago (when I asked you to be my son-in-law), everything worked out so great, and I'm your MIL anyway : ) And congratulations to Dallas, they had to go through the Champions to be the the champions, and I'm happy for all of you! Love y'all!

Dear Nan, I love you and like you....always have (in a very churchy way, I really believe this), always will (Oooh I will be using your new phrase, love it)! I can't tell you how much it has meant to me over the past ten years to have you as a mother in law and friend! Ever since I've been a "girlfriend-in-law" you've taught me so much about growing up and being a great wife and mother and I'm so grateful You are very kind, but you came that way. My part was to make sure you married Tad before you found out too much about him. ; ) Thank you for marrying my son, he is better for it!!!! You've been there for me at three in the morning when I bring home a newborn baby and you've been there with me to watch cheesy, heartbreaking teeny-bopper (Young Adult) movies that make us cry! (The Last Song) Having you in my life as a mother and grandmother to my sweet kids means the world to me....I know I don't tell you nearly enough, but I LOVE YOU and LIKE YOU...always have, always will! Happy happy birthday Nan xoxox Iya Oh Iya, thank you, thank you, ILOVEYOUANDLIKEYOUALWAYSHAVEALWAYSWILL!!!

Nan, Thank you for being a great Mother-in-law! You are a great influence in our lives. My kids are so lucky to have you as their Nan. Thank you for being so fun, happy, and churchy. XOXO, Tiffany Thanks Tiff (neenee). I want to be fun, I am very happy and very churchy, and I'm working to make them all fit together! Thankful for you, Bobby's wife, my friend. Heart. You.

Mom, It's been 31 years since you were this skinny Thanks for noticing!!! . I love that you're still fun even though your getting up there I knooow, I probably only have a few years of fun left in me.. I think you did an excellent job raising me and you me., and the others. I love the way you play with your kids kids and the way they speak so highly of you. You know what they say; the first 40 years of parenthood are the most difficult. You are my favorite mom by far and you my favorite Cody. I love you and like you too. Happy 54, Love Cody Thanks son, LYLY2!

I love how Nan laughs all the time and the way she helps me out when I don't understand some of the scriptures i'm studying If you only knew how much I LOVE those churchy phone calls, your mom, aunts and uncles know how crazy happy it makes me. . Love Paige Heart your EFY guts!

Nan , I am thankful I ended up in your family. Thanks for always being so fun and kind and creative and silly and churchy (Please use this word a lot at my funeral : )) and loveable and buff. You are awesome Nan. We are all so lucky (thanks, maybe this is because you are part of me, LUCKY WOMAN, there she goes, she is the LUCKIEST woman in the world!) to be part of your posse. Happy Birthday. You are timeless (hoping for Eternal). Love Celeste. Love you 'leste!!!

Mom, Happy Birthday...and I LYG!!!!

Thanks so much for all you do for me, I don't know where I would be without you!! I really do consider you one of my best friends! I know that know (no) matter what you will always be there and I can always turn to you! Now that I am away I miss you like crazy and I really cherish the time we get to spend together!! I lOVE to laugh with you..we are SO funny (favorite line) !! haha Hope you have the BEST Birthday ever! Yes it is, thanks!

LYG HYH MPH DYB OBWWCISM!! Please, please BMW!!!

Love ya, Syd Love ya too Syd, what about my *special 'mom lectures'??!!???

Thanks family!!! I smiled, laughed and cried while reading your messages. I am in such a good mood (except for the missing you part)!!!
I love to laugh, I love the Lakers, I love to study churchy things, I love the Temple, I love double-stuff oreos.....
BUT I LOVE YOU ALL WAY MORE THAN ANY OF THOSE THINGS. AND I LIKE YOU EVEN MORE THAN THAT!!!
*special churchy, mom lecture (since you are all paying attention)... Let's all do Mosiah 2:41 (so we will all live HAPPILY EVER AFTER) !!!

2011-04-05T12:16:00.000-07:00

Utah

2011-02-10T16:14:00.001-08:00

Hello From Utah everyone!!

Well Utah has been SO good so far!! I am loving being back up here with all of my friends!! I think it has snowed more in Texas than it has in Utah though.. but don't worry I am NOT complaining at all!! Well as most of you know steve and i did end things, but it is for the best! but i am happy and looking forward to dating and moving on!!! Last night i actually got to go up to Salt Lake and go hang out with Colton Lambert!! it was crazing seeing him again and i also got to see Cacia! they are both doing so well!! I've also got to see Lenzie and Chelsea, my old roommates boy have i missed them!! well things here are going great so far, i am excited for this time in my life to learn, grow, and to just have fun!!
Well Family I love you all SO much!!

Ps. See you all in March!! Oh and don't you just love my TIE ;)

Girly Girls

2011-02-06T08:40:00.001-08:00

Last weekend the little girls had fun in the dressing room while the mom's tried on clothes
They all took turns posing and using the camera

She's ready for her close up

She's ready for the cat walk

These two changed scarf es, purses and headbands a few times before posing for the camera

New Years 2011!!

2011-01-07T21:30:00.000-08:00

Hey Family!!

Well as you all know I got to go on a last minute CRUISE to Ensenada Mexico!! It was SO much fun!! I can't wait to go on another cruise!!
We got on the boat Friday (new Years eve) afternoon and were SO excited, we took all our stuff to our rooms then the eating began. haha we went to eat lunch then just explored the boat! then we relaxed and unpacked and got ready for dinner and all the New Years festivities!! This was by far the best new years i have ever had!!We woke up the next morning and we were in mexico!! we got to get off the boat and go explore, we went to go see the blowhole and we went shopping!! after we got back on the boat, we go ready for dinner (formal night) and then we went to 2 comedy shows, SO GOOD, and FUNNY!! sunday we woke up and were in the middle of the ocean, SO COOL!! it was cold and sprinkling so we decided to get in the hot tub on the very back of the boat, it was neat to be in the middle of the ocean, and have nothing to worry about! then dinner and more comedy!! haha! then monday woke up and had to get off the boat and go home! :( so sad!!
I had such a good time and i loved getting to spend more time with Steve!! i can't wait for you all to meet him and get to know him like i do!! Also i plan on moving back to Utah at the end of the month! i can't keep doing this distance thing with him, saying goodbye monday was the last straw, it was just WAY to hard!! and i guess we'll never know what will happen with us if we don't get back together (in the same area) soon! i'll keep you all posted and updated on my life!! Love you all!!
(sorry this was all over the place!) haha!!

TWO WEEKS!!

2010-10-28T16:33:00.000-07:00

Hello Family!!

Sorry I've been such a bum at Blogging! More Updates from my crazy life!! I'm still here in California living with Mom and Dad :( haha jk I love being home but I do miss being in Utah, being independent and my friends a lot! Life here as been good, I have a Job at In N Out and I love it!! I'm also helping Ryan coach a U12 and U14 coed soccer team, it's been so fun but it makes me miss playing a lot!! I'm still doing hair just out of the backyard salon we have haha!
Well Guys one thing that's coming up in my life that I'm so excited for is that one of my best friends gets home in TWO WEEKS!! Yep Thomas get's HOME from his mission in 14 days!! Here are just a few pics from high school that i love and wanted to share!!
Love you all!!!!!

hungry?

2010-09-11T19:51:00.000-07:00

I (Celeste) was cleaning out my email and I found these recipes I had asked Chloe and Kaidee for 2 years ago. April 2008. They are cute.
Bon Apetite

Recipes By Kaidee and Chloe

Brownies
There is a thing at the store that says brownies and you put chocolate chips in it.
-Kaidee

Rice Gravy
You put rice in it. Then you put chicken in it. Then you put it in the stove for 2 minutes.
-Chloe

Peaches
There are these peaches and sugar in it. Then you put it in a bowl and then you cut it up really small. And we could have brownies with peaches on top
-Chloe

Sugar Toast
You put sugar in it then you put toast. Then you put some sugar on it. It’s a good good thing.
-Kaidee

Iya’s Soup
You put squirrly noodles in it. Then tomato juice cook 10 minutes.
-Chloe

Hot Hot Soup
First you put Brown potatoes then you put carrots. Then you put red sauce stuff in a can in a big gray pan and cook it for 20 minutes
-Kaidee

Steak
You buy it at Staters, where the steak is. You’ll find it in the back. You buy it then you put the black and white salt thingy on it and put it in the barbecue for like 13 minutes at 15 hot.
-Chloe

Sugar Apples
Put some cereal, sugar 3 eggs and then 2 cups of milk then put some 5 cups of brown sugar 1 cup of water. Then you put some good stuff. 2 apples! Then put it in the oven for 3 minutes
-Kaidee

The Chloe
You put olive oil in the pan. Put bread. Flip it over and there is syrup on the table and butter and peanut butter and that’s all it is!
-Chloe

I'm in "like" I'm in "like" and I don't care who knows it!!

2010-05-24T12:36:00.001-07:00

new blog!

2010-05-15T16:25:00.000-07:00

I started this blog because since I got my new camera, I have waaaay to many pictures! I thought all of you probably do too. So this is a place to post random pictures of your kids, your nieces and nephews, your grandkids..... You don't even have to add any words if you don't want to. I am also using this as a spot for fun edits and just to keep an eye on my (hopefully!) ever improving photography skills. :)

Feel free to share your mad skills too!

snappilyeverafter.blogspot.com

{Hawaii 2010}

2010-04-16T14:48:00.000-07:00

{proof}

2010-04-11T17:14:00.000-07:00

This is proof that Dad almost got a hole in one.

YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-04-02T16:23:00.000-07:00

WOO! GUESS WHAT?! I, PAIGEE, HAVE MADE IT THROUGH THE 1ST CUTS OF SOCCER TRYOUTS AT MY OWN SCHOOL!!!! now i just have to make it through final cuts.......

p.s. Cody....BTW i think your cleats did give me good luck :)

I'm in "like" I'm in "like" and I don't care who know's it!!

2010-03-23T16:03:00.000-07:00

Steve and Sydney

We have cool Shoes!!

Hey everyone, just a little update, this is Steve!! Well just a little bit about him and how we met and things... He is in my ward here in Provo. For my calling I am an FHE mom and I plan FHE for the people in my group. Well Steve is one of the FHE co-chairs and is over me and my group!! So he was "texting me" to try and talk about FHE stuff... (and he still says that's all he was trying to do... but we all know that wasn't true!!) So, since we started "texting" and talking more we decided to hang-out and go on a date.. Ever since we have been inseparable, well it's only been a few weeks, but last weekend we went to St. George together for his spring break with a bunch of friends, it was so much fun!! That was a big test for us to see if we could handle being around each other, for the whole weekend with out being sick of each other. And guess what...? Were still in like with each other :)
So, about Steve, he is from Alpine/Highland Utah. He is 24, he is 6 foot tall, loves sports (always wants ESPN or some sport on)!! And he served his mission in Samoa!!
Well, just thought I'd share, let me know what you think!! :)
Love you all
<3 Sydney

for letti

2010-03-14T15:02:00.001-07:00

{funny}

2010-03-06T20:35:00.000-08:00

2010-03-03T16:00:00.000-08:00

Love her <3

Emily and I

Just getting some food.. haha

Hey Family, how is everyone!? Well just an update on me and Utah... Utah is good, still cold, but warming up, i can't wait for spring and summer!! As for me.. i'm doing great, I loot my final hair test and... I PASSED!!!!! i also got a job at the Cocoa bean Cupcake cafe and am still looking for a salon job, and i hope i can find one soon!! As for the dating life, well there is a few boys but nothing serious, the one that i probably like the most... well his name is Tadd, (hahaha) and is from mesa AZ. there are also a few missionarys i've been writing and that has been fun!! well nothing else is really new with me but just wanted to post some pics and well everyone know i'm doing good!!

Love you all so so much!! can't wait to see you again!!

Love Sydney

-----th place!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-02-06T11:02:00.000-08:00

hello. on Wednesday i had another cross country meet....while it was raining. it was SO muddy. everybody legs were solid mud,but it was very fun and slippery. if you were wondering i did fall which meant i was even muddier.BUT!,i got SEVENTH PLACE!!!!!!!(out of "B" team)!!!!!!!!!!!i was SO excited because my first meet i got 21st on my second was cancelled and my third i got 28th and now i got 7TH!!!!even though i probably texted everyone then and there in case i didn't text you there you go! p.s. next week is our zone meet and if our school doesn't make in the top 4 teams that will be our last meet if we do make the top 4 then we will go to one more!!! so wish us luck! :)

Happy 4th Birthday Sierra

2010-01-21T14:30:00.000-08:00

Sierra enjoyed a one hour horse ride for her birthday. For anyone who doesn't know Sierra LOVES horse.

She fell asleep on the way home.
She wants to ride this horse next time

She had lots of fun

Ms. Michelle rode with her, we went passed Lake Grapevine and saw a family of deers.

Sierra wants to go back tomorrow.

Happy Birthday cousin Jill

Running

2010-01-10T07:37:00.000-08:00

on Wednesday i had my 1st cross country meet and i got 22nd place!!!(hee hee) And, i improved 1 minute from the last time i ran a mile! lat time i ran a mile was 8:10 and at the meet it was 7:09.1!................IF you wanted to know..... *<:-} <-------Santa

heart <3 paigee

2009-12-20T12:15:00.001-08:00

C is for Carols. Fa, la, la, la, la.

H is for Ho, Ho, Ho. He's knows if your Bad or Good.

R is for Remember. The Reason for this Season!

I is for Inspire. Good will towards man.

S is for Spirit. Making Spirits Bright

T is for Time. Time spent with loved ones

M is for Merry. Oh let us be Merry!

A is for Always. Forever and Ever my Family you'll be.

S is for Silent Night, my favorite Christmas song.

Roommies!!

2009-12-11T12:04:00.000-08:00

Aubrey, Lauren, Chelsea, Me, and Sarah

Chelsea, Me, Aubrey, Sarah, and Lauren

Lauren and I

Sarah, Aubz, Chels, Lauren and I

Chels, Aubz, Lauren, Me, and Sarah

Happy Late birthday Chase!

2009-11-22T16:18:00.000-08:00

I love your dance moves.

Halloween!!

2009-11-03T12:34:00.001-08:00

Chelsea, Morgan, and I

Chels, Me, and Morgan

Chelsea, Morgan, and I

Group shot!!

The whole gang!!

Cosmeetology School Graduate!!!!

2009-10-29T00:07:00.000-07:00

Emily & I

Amber, Angeleah, & I

I did it, i finally graduated Hair school, i started school Sep 23, 2008 and finished Oct 28, 2009. It has been a long hard year being away from home and having to be at school tuesday-saturday 8 to 5. It was a bitter-sweet goodbye i'm very excited to be done and moving on to the next chapter in my life, but i am also very sad that it's over. I have wanted to go to Cosmetology school ever sence i can remember and now that it's over it's very sad. I have made some of the best friends this past year at school, Emily and i have been together sence the first day of school, we weren't that close in the beggining, but have gotten very close these last few months and now were pretty much inseprable!! (were even graduating a day apart) hehe. Angeleah and Amber Started in the january class and we've been great friends sence they started. I'm going to miss them but I know we'll still be in touch. I have loved every minute i have been in school, even though it was hard somedays i will always be forever greatful for all of my instructors and educaters that have tought me so much. I'm going to Miss it so much!! but now it's time to move on and grow up and for that i am greatful!!
Love you all and thanks mom and dad for everything!!

what Sierra is up to

2009-10-26T16:37:00.000-07:00

Her favorite things right now are horses. Here's a picture of her first horse ride at the stock yards. She rode around the horse ring about four times, by the last ride around the guy let the rings go and Sierra was riding all by herself.

She has been learning to cut. She has only cut one dress.

On Friday our school had it's fall festival, you can't tell but she has on her dance outfit (a cheerleading outfit) under the sleeping beauty dress. She is a dancing Sleeping Beauty.

In April she learned how to swing all by herself and now that's what she loves to do at school and at all parks.

In July she got her first hair cut.

We are trying to stay healthy even with all the germs running around the classrooms. Jayson is still working night and I have been taking some child development classes twice at week. Sierra has been growing so fast and getting so smart. She doing very good at learning how to play baseball and we are working on the soccer. I want her to be able to play with her cousins.

Lots of Love

2009-10-22T22:51:00.000-07:00

Syd, Aubrey, Sarah, and Chelsea
Sarah, Syd, and Jud
Aubrey, Syd, Sarah, and Chelsea
Roomies!!!

Hey Family, I figured I haven't posted in quite awhile, that it was finally time! Just to catch everyone up, I am in my last week of Cosmetology school and am still loving it, but am ready to be done. It is going to be a bitter-sweet goodbye to school, I have been wanting to do hair ever since I can remember and now that it is finally done it kind of makes me sad. I have made some of the the best friends there and I know we'll be friends for life. Also this year in Utah has been one of the best things that could have happened to me, I love the atmosphere here and all the friends I have made, and my roommates are amazing I am very blessed to have them in my life. As for the boys in my life, nothing serious as of now, but there are a few I like, one more than the others, but I guess we'll just see what happens. he he. Well just a little bit about whats going on with me.... Love you Family
<3 Sydney

{halloween past}

2009-10-20T13:57:00.000-07:00

"I want my mullet back"

2009-10-20T13:31:00.000-07:00

-Dee

{Dear Santa}

2009-09-30T11:55:00.000-07:00

This is what Cody wants for Christmas.

2nd and 5th

2009-09-28T06:15:00.001-07:00

This is what they do... I have 25 of theses pictures. LOL.

{2nd folder 5th picture}

2009-09-23T10:34:00.000-07:00

Look at how young they look.

5th picture

2009-09-22T14:08:00.000-07:00

Summer Fun Sierra and Kodi run to Amilia's back gate then back into the pool. Tiffany and Amilia were on vacation and Nan came to watch the kids. Sierra fell asleep on the way home and stayed a sleep all night.

{Letter from Brian}

2009-09-21T21:46:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,

It is that time again and transfers are next week. So, the BIG question is, what is going to happen to Elder Bowler for his final transfer?

So, to answer your question Mom, FLY ME HOME! I don't want to worry about changing plans yet again besides I think that coming in the summer would be much more enjoyable seeing as the 'green' will be all about.

I wanted to wish a very HAPPY 18th BIRTHDAY to Buzz. It is a great day for you and I hope that you make the most of it. Don't get into too much trouble but, have a wonderful day!

We have the baptism this weekend on the 19th of September and they are excited for it. It sounds like we absolutely will be teaching Kaitlyn's father and probably being the next baptism that we have. My companion is going to baptize her and I will be confirming her on the 20th at our Invitation Sunday. It is just so amazing to see this family make the right steps in life.

Now, I suppose I need to explain a bit further in the fact that most of my challenges with my companions have been with my own personal feelings and inadequacies. I get along with them as well as I got along with people back at home it is just that here you are learning more about my internal struggles in coming to grips with the fact that I can't get along with everyone but I can still love them for who they are. I can honestly now say the i love each and everyone of my companions because they all taught me so very much about life and learning what kind of personalities I will be faced with in the future. That does not, however, take away from the fact that they still do play a part in the 'having the hard time'. Many of my companions from states other than Utah have put me down because I am from Utah, and OREM at that. I love living there and I will never denounce my love for that place, because it is a great place. They have also put me down for the size, number wise of my family because there are fewer and fewer families with 6 children outside of Utah and my parents are still together. I don't know why these would be so to pick about but they do but I love them anyway.

My companion and I have been doing better because I realized I just needed to have a better attitude even when he puts me down. He knows how I feel when he does so but he doesn't seem to care. I know that in the long run I don't have top worry about what he thinks but it hurts when he does treat me with disrespect. I keep my head up and love life to it's fullest because as much as it sounds like I've been in the dumps I have truly enjoyed all of my learning and growth here. I have truly learned to love it and cherish every moment. I know this is but a short time so I want to make the most of the time I do have. Please don't think that I hate my mission. Please just remember that even though it is the most difficult, most faith-trying, most challenging experience I've had so far, I have learned a billion times more than I would have ever learned had I not gone on a mission. I truly am a positive, upbeat, and loving person I just have challenges that I am working through that reflect in these letters often but you ask most missionaries and members and others and they will tell you that I am just a happy guy.

The work is going great this week, we have the baptism this Saturday, we are teaching I believe nine investigators actively and tracting about an hour a day. We are keeping ourselves busy with all that we do and we hope to continue to do so.

People seem to be happy now that it is starting to get near the end of the 'sunny season' and into the 'rainy nine-month season'! It is really funny because people are so opposite from Utah and many other states in that direction. I love the people here but I will be happy to experience the Utah weather again.

I hope that this letter clears up any misconceptions that may have come forth in the past letters. To recap: I love ALL my companions (I still actively talk or e-mail to half of them), I understand that I am not perfect (which has been my biggest problem), the work is absolutely wonderful, and Life is Truly worth living to its fullest in the Lord. I love you all very much and I hope that your days take you on the adventures that keep you hoping for that glorious day when the Lord truly will come again. that all will find that true happiness comes from the Lord and that you all remember John 14:26.

LOVE YOUR MISSIONARY,
ELDER BRIAN BOWLER

Nan & Pops Halloween Costumes

2009-09-21T09:43:00.001-07:00

Think you can find better ones for them? Let's see 'em.

2nd folder 5th picture...

2009-09-18T14:14:00.001-07:00

Miles is "helping" me to hem up Pop's pants. If you look close you can see Miles pushing the "button" that makes the sewing machine go. (Ignore that pedal at the bottom of the picture with my foot on it.) Thanks Miles!

Can you see the fire pit in the backyard? Livee put the wood in it hoping for one more night by the fire. The wood is still sitting just like she left it over a month ago, because we haven't had an evening cool enough to sit around a fire. Maybe soon. Thanks Livee!

Fishin' with Uncle cody

2009-09-15T09:07:00.000-07:00

OK its find a picture time! Go to your second most recent folder of pictures and pick the 5th picture. This pic is of Cody taking the nieces and nephew's fishing at a little pond bear our house. where almost everyone caught little fish. like the size of my hand. They were so cute. don't worry we threw them all back (which was sometimes hilarious)

Paisley Marie Byrd

2009-07-22T09:32:00.001-07:00

July 21, 2009

8 lbs 2 oz

18 in.

2009-07-15T22:21:00.000-07:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

{Happy Birthday Mom}

2009-06-23T08:49:00.000-07:00

{Letters from Brian}

2009-05-12T09:42:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone,
Stake Conference was really good this week. The Adult Session on Saturday night was all about the temple and how we can enhance our temple attendance. The speakers were really good and it has given me a more invigorated push to attend the temple at least once a week once a get home, mostly because you only have to drive about 15 minutes to get to a temple in Utah. They talked about how our bodies should resemble the temple in sacredness and holiness. We should respect them so much especially since they our not ours permanently yet.
The Sunday Session was really good as well, that is where we sang and well, according to the members they liked the elders singing more than the sisters. They said that the elders were actually in tune and the sisters not so much but they enjoyed the message that they had to sing about. We sang the Sisters in Zion and Army of Helaman medley. The message of the speakers was really good as well. They spoke so eloquently about their subjects that they were asked to speak that the Spirit could definitely be felt and the testimonies were great.
All three of the Crane girls are on date to be baptized on May 9 of 2009! We are so excited for them and they are all excited for the gospel in their lives. On Friday I got a note from both Kyndra (that is actually how it is spelled) and Cydnee. They said how much they appreciated the lessons that they have received and that they were excited that we decided to ask them about taking the lessons even though they weren't really excited at first to take them. We have a few more things to teach them before they get baptized on the ninth but we will get it all in before their baptism. Please pray that they may feel ready for this most wonderful step they are going to make.
I will most definitely be able to call after you all get home from church but it will probably be about 7 pm your time because we will be having dinner at 4 or 5 pm that day so I hope that will be just fine, if not let me know.
Things are going well with me and my companion as we are just doing what we do best and visit the wonderful people of Boardman.
So, don't think to kill me but I am once again ill but I am not sure what it is. I just think that it is my CMV acting up again because I am just absolutely tired but I can still do everything that I need to do. I will be fine but it is just kicking my butt right now.
So my entire zone agrees that my companion is gone next transfer because he is really struggling with the area and has been asking president to move him to another area. He actually doesn't know that I know that but my zone leaders told me that president brought that up to them and we all believe that President will grant his request. I have also told president that my companion needs to be moved because he doesn't like the area.
I don't think that I have anything else to say but I LOVE YOU ALL VERY MUCH and remember John 14:27 and that I can't wait to talk to the family on the 10th.
Congrats on your graduation KYLE!!!! I am so proud of you for doing that.
LOVE YOUR MISSIONARY,
ELDER BRIAN BOWLER

Well hello everyone,
Wow, it is only Tuesday and it has been quite a week already. We are gearing up for the baptism and the girls are quite excited and are feeling more and more ready to be baptized as the days go on. Satan is also working very hard on them as they have been fighting much from what we have heard. We are trying to teach them to thwart the contention by praying and reading the scriptures. They listen to all the words that we say and they are trying but they still have things, like all of us, that need to become better through Christ. I don't know if I told you that Lynzee has asked me to baptize and confirm her but she did and I accepted. They have made an amazing change in the time that we've been teaching them and they continue to change for the better just like Ashley did.
By the way I heard that Ashley is doing well and is fully active in church and might be getting married to a returned missionary. That would be so exciting to be able to know that she continues to fully embrace the gospel even though we are not always going to be there exactly at the time she needs us.
I have some bad news this week though. I found out yesterday that Gina and her husband and four friends were in a really bad single-car accident and Gina was life flighted to a hospital in the Tri-Cities called Kadlec, Robert, Gina's husband, was killed instantly and the four in the back were injured in varying degrees. I was told this news at 8:20 am on Monday morning and the accident happened exactly 2 hours earlier. I felt to my knees and prayed for the family that when they told the children that the Lord would comfort and strengthen them and that he would strengthen me. It was really hard for me yesterday as my companion really didn't care that much and I know that the Lord was by my side. I don't really blame my companion for not really caring because he didn't know them like I did and I had a great relationship with them.
We went over this morning and talked with Marcalina and Isaiah; they were pretty sad about that but they understand that the Lord is watchful over them and their dad. The worst part about it all is that Gina doesn't know that Robert died, she is going to be heart broken. Me and my companion have been doing good and we are getting along well. We work through our problems if we have any of them and we strive to keep the Spirit with us. That is really about it for me and my companion.
I have been really thinking about the gospel and what it means in my life and wow, it means so much to me to know all that I know about the gospel. I love it so very much and embrace it more and more everyday. The fire inside me grows bigger and bigger everyday. I love it!
I can't wait to be able to talk to you on Sunday and I am so excited for all the wonderful things that have been happening in our family and the blessings that come from our Father in Heaven. May you always remember His love for you and remember John 14:26. I LOVE YOU ALL VERY MUCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
LOVE YOUR MISSIONARY,
ELDER BRIAN BOWLER

Dear Nan,

2009-05-10T18:53:00.000-07:00

I want to first start off by wishing you a Happy Mother's Day. I hope you had a great day. I wish that I could have done more but when I saw the charm I thought that it would be perfect. I want to thank you for always being there for me as a young child until now that I am a Mother. I love that you live so close and that if I want to see you everyday I can. I love all of your advice throughout the years too. I am the Mother I am today because of you and all that you have taught me. I hope to be the same kind of Mother to my children as you were to all of us. I know that sometimes it makes you sad to see your children struggle or make silly decisions but know that we all love you and one day we will all be an eternal family in heaven. Thanks for everything I love you Letti.

Dear Nan, Happy Mother's Day. Hopefully you had a very nice one and you didn't have to work that much. I hope Pop's got you something nice. Love Chase

Nan, I love you so much and I love to spend the night with you. When I am off track I love to spend the night with you. But sometimes my Mom does not let me spend the night on School Nights I wanted to spend the night at my Grandma's house tonight but my Mom said No No No. I love when you give me money when I clean your house and I love you the most of all. You are the bestest Nana I ever had in the entire city, world, and earth. Kaidee

Dear Nana,

Happy mother's Day. I hope you have a great Mother's Day. I am glad that Bobby and Tiffany came out. I love you. xoxoxoxoxo Chloe

Nan, I love Nan. Nan's house. Bounce the ball high. Go high. In the name of Christ. Football. Love you. Cole

Course 3

2009-04-25T09:12:00.001-07:00

I just finished course 3 in cake decorating. I made a present cake in fondant for Livee's birthday, she picked out all the colors. The final cake was a tiered flower cake cover in fondant with fondant roses. A big Thanks to Celest, Tiffany, Amalia, Lynda, Zoe, and Paige for helping me make my forty-five roses. I have so much fun learning new things in each course. There is one more course I hope to take this summer.

Rowdy...

2009-04-23T19:26:00.000-07:00

...or should I say Row"Dee"?

{letter from Brian}

2009-04-23T08:42:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,
We've had a busy week this week. We had Zone Conference, a baptismal commitments and found out last week that we will, as the missionaries of the Hermiston stake, are going to be singing in Stake Conference this Sunday. So this week we are having a couple practices for the song on Sunday. I'll let you know how the singing goes.
Zone Conference was absolutely wonderful even though I felt like I kept getting spiritual slaps the entire time I was in the meeting. I repented and changed my ways and now I am back on track. Don't worry it was nothing really bad except getting up and exercising, planning with a purpose and involving my companion, and things like that. We had some really good trainings from President Belnap on how we can be better missionaries by making sure our roots are firmly planted in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Sis. Belnap also gave a great training on the talk about keeping the temple in our sights from General Conference.
And no, it is not the camera, I have gained weight on my mission. I don't have any excuses of why I gained weight except that I have finally begun to actually retain weight and it has given me an incentive to work out in the mornings. I am not sure at this point how much weight I have gained but I can tell you that you will get a little more 'Brian' when I come home! Ha Ha. I have actually started working out because I had promised President Belnap that I would work out in the mornings and boy I am amazed how much the Lord helps me to be able to exercise in the morning. Whether you would believe me or not I was able to do 100 dips (working out the triceps), 70 (push-ups) and getting bigger, and 300 crunches and 300 side crunches. I tell you that on certain days I am sore but it is just fine because I feel so much better and awake after I work out in the mornings. I also am able to stay awake during personal study with out even feeling a bit tired.
I have been able to feel much better about all my situations that I am put in after I have listened to and heeded your advice of being an example more than talking to my companions. I have tried very hard to be the example that my companion needs and I have found that he is seeing what I am doing and seeing a visual of what I am talking about rather than a bunch of words that seem to go into his ears but then to the back of his brain. I was able to hear that he actually feels bad about the way he has treated me around the members lately. He was telling me last night while we were in the car that he was sorry for the way he treated me because so much of the time he compares me to a woman or a wife with the way I do things and what I do. I never got angry with him, yelled at him or anything. I just simply took what he said and forgave him if I felt that it was a little over the edge. He has recognized that and has seen that even though it really hasn't affected the way I am it just brings him to a more awareness of how he needs to treat people that cares so much about him. Thank you so much for the advice that you gave me Mom.
Kendra has agreed to be baptized on May 9 of 2009 and we are so stoked about that. Cydnee and Lynzee were not there last Thursday because they were having ATTITUDE on thursday and their mom told them she didn't want to have that at the lesson so she left them home. They are coming for sure this next Thursday because they missed being able to learn about the gospel. It was sweet that they wanted to go for the lesson and not for us, or as my companion likes to point out me. We plan to put Cydnee and Lynzee on date for the ninth of May this thursday and catch them up on what they missed the week before. We are working very hard on getting them to understand the information that they need to know and their lives are beginning to change and the leaders of the Primary and Young Women are really helping us out in fellowshipping these girls.
We continue to work with the Less-actives of the Boardman Ward and do the best we can to brighten their day with the light of the gospel. I absolutely love this work and can't wait to be able to share what i have learned with all of you by the attitude that I have. I love you all and I hope that you remember John 14:27. God Bless you all and I will write to you later.
LOVE YOUR MISSIONARY,
ELDER BRIAN BOWLER

{letter from Brian}

2009-04-23T08:41:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,
This week has been one of more of a slow feeling to it only because the week of transfers is always a feeling of slow crawling attitude. It was an excellent week, don't get me wrong, it was just a turtle of a week!
All I really have to say about Gina is that she is slowly moving forward seeing that it is her and her alone that can make the difference and she thanks me and my companion much for bringing that to her realization.
The three girls, Kendra, Cydnee, and Lynzee are progressing quite well, they attended church and are excited about having lessons to be baptized. We've been working hard to make sure that they realize they need to do this on their own and NOT for anyone else. I believe they understand how important it is for them to find their own testimonies and to be strong on their own. My companion thinks otherwise and that they are just doing because they think I'm cute. That is always my companion's contraction when he doesn't seem to believe why people join the church. O well, life moves forward. This week we will be teaching them the Plan of Salvation and the Ten Commandments. WE will see how the teaching goes.
Mom, I know what you are saying about leading by example and I try. I try to be the example and see if they get it that way but sometimes I feel that I should talk to them about it and help us both to feel better. I will continue to try to be the example to my companions and do what I can for them by service.
I have a strong feeling that I am going to be leaving Boardman next transfer and on to another part, probably Tri-cities, of the mission and finish out in that area. I say that only because after this transfer I will only have 4 transfers left and President probably won't want to move me anywhere else but you still don't know. Despite that I will continue to do my best in Boardman and leave the area looking better than when I found it (I haven't completely forgot about what they taught me in scouts.)
WE were able to go to the temple today and it was a bitter sweet experience that made me feel all the more thankful for my most wonderful blessings. The Lord reminded me that my time is coming to a close and that I just need to continue to put my best foot forward. He also let me know that he will remain with me as long as I continue to remain faithful to him. Don't worry I'm not becoming trunky and won't until the tuesday before I return home!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY to CHAD, BERNADETTE, and KAITLYN tomorrow!!!!
I can't really think of anything else to say except that things are going great and I can't wait for a month to be able to talk to the family. I LOVE each and everyone of you and I hope to hear from you soon.
LOVE YOUR MISSIONARY,
ELDER BRIAN BOWLER

Happy Birthday to...

2009-04-17T11:36:00.000-07:00

Crazy Chloe!!!

I look forward to seeing you in your second white dress!
Y nan

I HEART this message...

2009-04-16T16:41:00.000-07:00

Dear Chase, Garrett, Paige, Zoey, Chloe, Livee, Kaidee, Carys, Sierra, Kodi, Cole, Miles, Grayson, Degan, Rowdy, and Christian,

An Easter message for you for all time, all things, all places!

Look what Heavenly Father did for you!

I know these messages are true, I love our Savior Jesus Christ!
He loves you more than you will ever know and so do I!
Y nan

Happy Birthday Dear Degan...

2009-04-11T19:39:00.001-07:00

April 2007

April 2008

February 2009

Happy Birthday Happy Boy!!!

Y nan & pops (but mostly nan)

{letter from Brian}

2009-04-11T18:15:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,
I am staying in Boardman with my companion for another six weeks. I am glad to be able to stay here in Boardman for at least another six weeks. My companion and I have been doing so much good in the area.
Speaking of my companion, We had a very good discussion on Saturday night about so many things that have been weighing on my mind. I have been getting many hints of people wanting me to discuss things with my companion and I wanted to be able to be led by the Spirit to explain these things to him. I prayed fervently to be able to talk with him in a sense that he would be able to understand and not become angry and resentful. I then proceeded to read D & C 121 when the Lord talks to Joseph Smith about why many men are called of God but they are not chosen. I read that and I decided to take the principles I had just read and applied them into speaking with him in a Christ-like manner. I felt that as a District Leader and a senior companion that I should try to follow how a priesthood holder and leader should discuss things with others. I was able to express not only my concerns but others concerns as well in a manner that I feel was pleasing to God and my prayer was answered. I listened to my companion as I always try to do when a person talks to me and I was able to listen to what the Spirit was telling me. I learned much about being a leader and how one person trying to do what is right can make a difference. I was able to show my love and care for him and in turn was able to help him to understand how he can more fully know how to love others, even through misunderstandings.
I could tell that he knew that I wasn't there just to attack him that I sincerely cared about him.
On another note, General Conference was amazing! I thoroughly enjoyed listening to the speakers and what they had to say to me. There were times that I felt like it was something that I didn't fully want to hear but I knew that I needed to and as I graciously took to and heeded their counsel I have found that my life has already begun to get so much better. I felt that they were talking only to me and letting me know about things to come and that I need to prepare now so that it won't be hectic later. I loved every minute of it and felt the Spirit of the Lord in the things they talked about. I also went in with questions and they were all answered through the Spirit.
I will always treasure the opportunity to listen to modern-day living prophets who receive guidance and revelation from the Lord. I know they are looking out for my own best interests to return to live with my Father in Heaven.
The Wallaces visited me this past weekend. We had so much fun 'catching up' on old times and current moments in life. It was wonderful to see them again and to talk to them face to face. By the way they say 'Hi'.
We've begun teaching the three young women. We taught them a first lesson, The Restoration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and they enjoyed listening to the message. We are sincerely hoping that they are doing it for them and not for us! We want them to become converted to the Gospel for the intent to follow Jesus Christ and live his teachings all the days of their lives. We will help them to do that so that they don't become less-active statistics in the future.
And thus we come to Gina, o how quickly she comes to forget the goodness of God. She has turned to blame God for all of her problems and says that when she tried to do better she just simply had life harder. Although I know that because she is not willing to help herself there is absolutely nothing I can do. I still love and care for her but, the Spirit told me that there is nothing I can tell her because she is not ready to hear what she needs to hear. I know that she will not change while I am here but I am somewhat of 'guiding star' for her to look to for an example of a true disciple of Christ, at least she think so. I do the best I can to live the Gospel to my full ability and when I fall short I make the necessary changes to bring it back in harmony with the Gospel. I show her a way she can go but until she is truly ready to 'give up all [her] sins to know [Him]' she will not go anywhere in life and have 'to kick against the pricks and fight against God' until she truly is at her lowest and finally reaches her hand up for him to lift her higher. For the time being we will only be visiting her once a week because she asked us to so that we are not so subjected to her not wanting to change, even though she would like me to go by everyday. Although I know why he does what he does, my companion has created a gap between him and Gina. I know that she will ask the missionaries to stop coming by after I leave until she is ready to truly return to Christ. She knows how I feel with the fact that she is not willing to change but she still knows that I care so much for her and her eternal salvation.
Things are going quite well with me otherwise and I know that the Lord is always with me. I definitely do not dwell on how bad things are, I enjoy dwelling more on the wonderful blessings the Lord gives me daily and how much he loves me! It sounds as though things are going well at home and abroad and that the Lord is watchful and mindful of each one of you. I love you all so very much and I hope that things continue to look up and that you remember the Lord's blessings in your life. Remember John 14:26 and as time counts down all to quickly that I will be there for you all to take hold and learn of what I have done on my wonderful and most memorable mission for the Lord, my God!
LOVE YOUR MISSIONARY,
ELDER BRIAN BOWLER

{letter from Brian}

2009-04-11T18:13:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,
So, transfers is next week and it is guessing time once again. It seems as though these times come all too fast. So, what is happening to Elder Bowler?
This week has been one of joy and pain. I have found that some of life's greatest joys can also become life's greatest pains at times. The Lord is still with me so I have no reason to fear. I love what He has done for me and all the love that comes from his open arms. Remember that even though you may find that someone you love and care about hurts you, they still bring some of life's most exquisite joy. This not only has reference to Gina and her family but also my companion. Whether or not my companion understands or not is up in the air but sometimes they don't realize that it hurts, the things they do.
First off, This week Gina, the wonderful women that she is showed her lack of self-confidence and self-reliance when she said that she wanted to do something and then didn't keep her promise. She had promised us she would come to church and that if we came in the mornings she would pray with us. I was hurt when we went over their the first morning and everyone else was only making excuses for her and wouldn't try to get her up. The reason I didn't was because she wasn't dressed properly, if you know what I mean. Yes it was hard but as I prayed about it I have come to understand how I can make a new approach to helping her to get herself propelled into doing things on her own. I've been able to help her see how this is important and now I just need to light it under her.
Then on Sunday, Isaiah decided that he didn't want to go to church and refused to put church clothes on. O, if I were his father he would have been dressed in five minutes but I wanted to teach him about agency and how each choice has a consequence. and therefore allowed him to make a mistake.
And my companion... how new he is. He just doesn't understand all that he needs to yet and I will continue to teach him as much as I can. We still get along as best friends but there are things that we do talk about that could be changed and better.
The work is going well in Boardman. We are teaching the three young women that I have talked about this Thursday and I am excited about that. My companion finally feels that he will be teaching as a missionary. I've told him many times that he is still teaching even if it is not a full planned out lesson. As he gets further along in his mission he will understand that aspect of missionary work. I will keep you updated on the happenings of the missionary work in Boardman.
I am doing well. I love the work so completely and I will continue loving it till I pass from this life. I am continuing in the faith I have in Jesus Christ and will trust in him forever. I LOVE YOU ALL so very much, remember John 14:26. Remember the theme for 2009 1 Timothy 4: 12 and 'Be thou an example of the believers'!!!!!!!!
LOVE YOUR MISSIONARY,
ELDER BRIAN BOWLER

{letter from Brian}

2009-04-11T18:12:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,
It has been quite a different week for sure but none the less a wonderful week. I was able to express concern and love to my companion and he took it very well. I was concerned about some of the things that he would say, because, excepting me, he puts up a front to everyone he meets and doesn't always tell the entire truth. He had expressed that he wanted to become like me where I don't tell people tall tales to have them like me. I've honestly never understood why people do that but I just explained to him that I was concerned about that.
We also have been trying to find a time to teach those three young women, yes more girls I teach, that I briefly talked about last week. We gave a blessing to the oldest one last Tuesday because she goes in for knee surgery today and we hope all goes well.
We taught Ruth on Wednesday and it seems as though she has a half baked desire to actually get baptized but we are still trying to get that fully baked. We are meeting with her tomorrow.
So an amazing thing happened yesterday, Gina, her husband Robert both came to church! It was such a wonderful surprise to hear that they were both coming. It was exciting to see them coming together. Marcalina and Isaiah also came like always. They all plan to come next week.
I have been growing by leaps and bounds this week in remembering what trust I have in the Lord. I have learned so much by the Spirit and it has given me so much more of a stretching knowledge of his love for us. I will tell you about some of my scripture adventures seeing as my time is being cut short today.
I think that it would be absolutely wonderful to do Utah temple visits! I Love you all very much and may the Lord bless and keep you. Remember John 14:26.
LOVE YOUR MISSIONARY,
ELDER BRIAN BOWLER

Happy Birthday Dear Livee...

2009-04-09T11:53:00.000-07:00

HAPPY 7th BIRTHDAY LIVEE!!!

You look so good in California!

(except in the last picture when you were remembering that you had to go back to Texas)

You are growing up so fast, be sure to marry someone from California!!!

I heart your 7 year old heart, nan

Syd's Hair Show

2009-04-06T10:44:00.000-07:00

One of the reasons we went to Utah was to see Syd's Hair show. It was really fun. They had a really funny comedian open the show he did lots of impersonations. Syd did this girls hair in the show. There was some pretty amazing hair do's. I tried to take the best pictures I could but it was very dark so these will have to do.

First Train Ride

2009-04-04T11:53:00.001-07:00

Sierra had so much fun on the train.

She started waving and yelling hello to Thomas the second we got out of the car.

If was a fun morning. If you every go to Day out with Thomas go the first ride of the day. We were there three hours did all the activities and were leaving as all the parking lots were full and the lines were getting crazy. Sierra called Nan, Lynda, Grammy, and daddy on her pretend phone to tell them about Thomas the Train when we got in the car.

You will CRACK up....

2009-03-24T15:00:00.000-07:00

Saturday Rob picked all the lemons off the tree. Together we washed, halved and juiced them. We got two gallons of juice. I measured out two cups of juice and poured it into 16 freezer baggies.

To make lemonade:
1 baggie of lemon juice
2 1/4 cups sugar
1 gallon water and ice

Simple and yummy!!! You would think....

... I sat at the computer as Rob and Darian were preparing to eat dinner (the rest of us ate right after church). Here's their conversation:

Rob: "I'll get the drink, oh they only left us crumbs." (just a little bit of lemonade in the pitcher).
Darian: "Is there any more?"
R: "Yeah, we have a bunch, I'll make it."

Rob opened one baggie into pitcher, added sugar and water and put it on the table.

D: "This tastes just like sugar water."
R: "I know, you've got to stir it more."
D: "It still tastes funny."
R: "It's still frozen in the bottom, let me stir it."
D: takes another taste, "Somethings not right, is it old?"
R: "Kath is it old?"
Now Rob pours some in his big cup full of ice, takes a big swig and SPITS it out into the sink.
R: "kath somethings wrong with this lemon, it's bad."
D: "I know, it's old or something, it's got stuff floating around in the bottom."
Me: "Rob, where did you get the baggie from?"
R: "The freezer, right where you put it."
I got up, looked in the freezer, pointed to the second shelf and asked, "Is this where you got it from?"
R: "Yes"
Me: "Rob you used the frozen chicken broth!!!!"

Chickenade!!??

I could not stop laughing, I'm still laughing about it. You know that if it would have been one of you that did that, he would be on the phone calling all your siblings to tell them.

Rob and Darian poured out all the chickenade.

Me: "Would you like me to make some lemonade for you?"
R: "No, I'm having water."

Yay for humanitarian aid

2009-03-19T11:53:00.000-07:00

{Letter From Brian}

2009-03-17T17:24:00.000-07:00

Well Hello everyone,

Happy St. Patty's Day so don't forget to wear pink or you'll get a pinch to grow an inch, for some that may be desired. ;)
It has been quite a week this week. We had invitation Sunday and it was a great success. We had five non-members there and eight less-actives. Woo Hoo! The talks given were great for investigators and those who came really enjoyed it and ... my companion decided that he was going to tell the ward that we would sing in the choir. So we sang in the choir and did a good job. I'll be honest I don't mind singing in the choirs back at home but I really don't seem to enjoy singing in the choirs on my mission. I know this may sound strange but everyone could hear me sing the tenor part because I was the only tenor besides one of the sisters in the ward and she needs a person who can really hit the correct pitches. Anyways that was a random tangent.
Gina came to church again this week and also Jim Ward, a less-active we have been working with for the past three months, came because I made them both promise me they would be there. Of course, that didn't come without the scorning of the ward leaders. They told me that basically the only reason I believed them was because I was a missionary and that I shouldn't trust that they would come. They also said that they didn't have that kind of faith to believe people like that. You know me and how I've always been that way so, I just let them scorn me for what I guess is what they would call petty faith but I didn't let that bother me. They probably felt a bit humbled when they both showed up for church. I thanked God for giving me such faith to trust when others promise me.
You know I think that Boardman is a great place and I absolutely love it but the leadership of this ward is definitely lacking in faith and that is why the work is so hard here in Boardman. I will not give up on Boardman though because there is so much potential.
Speaking of potential we have three new potential investigators in a part member family. Three girls ages 11, 13, and 15. That would help boost the young women to involve them in church, new blood per se.
Also, I don't know if I told you about Ruth Green but she is an absolutely amazing investigator who has been meeting with the missionaries for about three years but I think that she is really wanting to take another step in her life. I will let you know how things go and I have the faith that she will make that next step and show the ward that she is not just a lost cause.
The work is starting to pick up in Boardman and I am so excited because the Lord has really blessed us for our efforts in finding and now they are just being put in our lap. I love the Lord with all my heart and I know that he is always watching over me. I could never deny what I know because of how gracious the Lord has been to me and I will always praise his name.
I got the package of clothes Mom and they are just fine. Thank you so much for doing that for me. I will be awaiting that talk that you have promised to send me.
Speaking of talks... Everyone is encouraged by me to get the talk entitled When All Eternity Shook by S. Michael Wilcox. It speaks of healing through the Atonement of our Savior Jesus Christ and how through him we can find peace and solace. My heart is lifted high above the heavens as I listen to this because it has helped me to realize that it doesn't matter what happens in our lives, the Atonement can truly help us and Christ will succor us because HE HAS BEEN THERE!!! Although I came to a realization of that near the beginning of my mission for the Lord, it has been reiterated to me through this talk. I would also encourage you to get the best of Jack Christianson. It will give you new insights to the people you encounter and for most who have a heart, it will send tears from your eyes as you hear these two most inspiring and wonderful CDs that you will want to listen to time and time again.
The Lord is our shepherd and we are his flock. Trust in him! He is ready to enfold his arms around you and let you know that everything is going to be fine while you are encircled in his love. In the Book of Mormon it talks about how the Lord's arms are always open and we just need to accept his invitation to 'come unto him' and partake of his goodness and mercy.
Elder Jeffery R. Holland has stated in a talk entitled Remember Lot's Wife: 'Faith and doubt cannot exist in our minds at the same time'. So just as Lot's wife are we looking towards the future and Christ or are we wishing we could go back to the way we used to be? I would admonish you to always do the former and let Christ heal all wounds and let go of what has happened in the past that often grieves us and weigh heavily on our minds. We have 'an eternal weight of glory' for us in the here after if we remain faithful to all He has asked of us.
Don't forget how much I truly love each and everyone of you. I miss you all so much but I am never too far away talk to. I am so eternally grateful for the opportunity to be here on a mission for the Lord and bring our brothers and sisters home to Zion. Thank you for all your support and remember John 14:27.

LOVE YOUR MISSIONARY,
ELDER BRIAN BOWLER

{Letter from Brian}

2009-03-13T16:24:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,
We were able to go to the temple today in Tri-cities and we had a wonderful time. I learned some very interesting truths from the Spirit during my session which I cannot tell at this time. Just know that it was a wonderful time and that the temple is a most holy place where the Spirit of the Lord can truly abide at ALL times.
We had a really good Zone Conference last week and we just had things reiterated of what we've learned in past zone conferences. It was such a wonderful experience to be able t talk with President Belnap and be trained by him.
Also my companion and I had interviews with president last week. That was really good because I was feeling overwhelmed by training and as I talked with him he told me simply that I don't need to be perfect in order to train I just need to love my 'greenie' and the people I serve. I have felt so much better about training since then and I am absolutely loving it!
Elder Ord is such a great young man and is so much like I was when I first got into the mission field except that he runs his mouth more than I ever did (not in a rude way). It is so funny because we talk and talk and seem to get so much done. We get along so well and the longer that I am with him the more I love the guy. I can say that the longer he is with me the more he loves me. So it works out so well for the two of us.
The Linseys are members of the Boardman Ward and are a great family. They love missionaries and enjoy talking with us and getting to know us.
The work is slow but we are persevering with all enthusiasm behind us and we do much tracting and visiting less-active members. It is absolutely wonderful to be able to do what we do as missionaries.
I hate to cut this short but I don't have much time to writ this week because we are still in Tri-cities and I only have an hour to e-mail but I love you all and remember John 14:27.

LOVE YOUR MISSIONARY,
ELDER BRIAN BOWLER

letter from Brian

2009-03-02T10:25:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone,

The baptism was a real big success! They made it and it has been a real good thing for that family. The Spirit was strong at the baptism. Oh, and when I baptized Isaiah his big toe came up so I had to do it again and the second time was good. One of the members said that it was a good thing we did it again because they didn't want his big toe to still be filthy. I thought it was really funny. They were confirmed on Sunday and were extremely excited and had a wonderful day at church. We had dinner with them at the Poe's home and had a wonderful time. The Poes were the escorts for Marcalina and Isaiah and they invited all of us to their home.
So, I think that your illness has begun to travel through your e-mails because I have had a nasty cough and now a not so desirable cold. I will be just fine though because I have learned how to take care of myself.
The Wallaces told me that it was supposed to be the end of next month that they were going to be in Utah because they will be driving through Boardman and want to see me on their way. I am excited for them to come and see me because I miss them so much and I honestly wish that I could have stayed in their home my entire mission because I really felt at home their.
So big news of the week, I'm staying in Boardman and... ladies and gentlemen hold on to your hats because I am going to be training a new missionary!!!! I am excited and a bit nervous to be doing that but it is going to be a really good experience for me and I know I will learn so much just like I have my entire mission. I know that as I rely on the Lord he will help me to teach this new missionary all he needs to know to be a successful missionary.
I am going to see if I can get some pictures printed off today of the baptism and send them home so that you can see them.
Although my companion and I have had our differences we have really become good friends and we enjoy one another's company. We have worked through our differences and learned to love one another for who we are and for the opportunity to have been companions. I know that the Lord put us together to help us learn to love others who are vastly different than ourselves and so it has been a great, yet challenging six weeks and I will miss the time that we have spent serving the Lord together.
I think that is all the news that I have for the week but I love you all very much and I hope that things are looking to be better everyday as you remember how merciful the Lord has been to you in your life and how he has given you all that you need to be successful in your lives. It brings me much joy that as I have learned that as we truly lose our lives in the service of the Lord that we find the life that we have always been looking for: peace, joy, love and fulfillment in our lives. He will always love you no matter what may happen in our lives we have the assurance that He will gives all that we need, not necessarily all that we want but most certainly all that we need. I love you all, remember John 14 :27. The Lord is our LOVING Heavenly Father!

LOVE YOUR MISSIONARY,
ELDER BRIAN BOWLER

Letter from Brian

2009-03-02T10:24:00.000-08:00

HI EVERYONE,

Well, the baptisms are coming up this weekend and we are gearing up for that wonderful day. Isaiah and Marcalina are both excited as well and Marcalina asked Elder Jackson to baptize her and Isaiah asked me if I would baptize him. I thought that was really nice of him to ask me. He will be the first one that I have actually baptized on my mission. Although that isn't very important who does the baptizing, I think it is cool and he always calls me his missionary. I think that Isaiah is a really great kid as well as Marcalina but they are just really rambunctious (I think that is spelled that way) when they decide they want to be. We only have a few more commandments to teach them and it is just so great how impressionable their minds are at this age in their life. If you could pray for everything to go smoothly for the next few days that would be great.
It really sounds like it he been a trying week for most of the family and well it has been quite trying for me as well. I seem to have had an illness the past couple of days that is just pushing me over the edge. I can't seem to balance myself and I feel that I'm on the verge of a mental nervous breakdown and it just seems that everything is out of control. I personally think that it has very little to do with my companion's terrible actions lately and more to do with my wanting to love him and care for him and seeing my efforts go to a careless, belligerent companion who just wants to go home and mistreat women. I am actually surprised that he has not tried to take a swing at me but he has been very verbally abusive to me in front of members and other missionaries. It is hard and it hurts to see him that way but I still think he is a great guy but has many hurdles to overcome. I know that I have only about a week left and that it will be over with him and that is honestly the only thing that keeps me going along with reading my scriptures and praying for the strength to go forward with absolute faith.
I don't want to burden you all with a poor me statement but I know the Lord has something great in store for me. The Lord loves me so very much and I have learned that it is only those who can take the heat are the ones that he gives such daunting tasks to. I don't want to sound conceded but that is just something that I have learned. I know that he cares and just keeps us growing but we must either rise to the challenge or shrink and succumb to the Devil and wallow in misery. That WILL NOT be me I will rise to the challenge he has set before me.
Other than that things are going on fairly well and we are just striving for helping others come unto Christ. I've learned that even though the mission is truly one of the hardest things you will ever do, in the end it is one of the most rewarding experiences a young man or young woman could ever have in their life. I will treasure it forever.
So, I have discovered for myself that I am so much like Mom. Most things that I do remind me of things that Mom does and well I am absolutely happy that I am so much like her. There are things that I do that remind me of Dad and I just enjoy the opportunity of being able to discover that for myself, instead of everyone telling me. Well, I think that is really it for next week except I was wondering if you would guess what will happen to me next week seeing as transfers are then? I love you all very much and I hope that things are just continuing to look up and that the Lord may become integral in your up most thoughts and desires in life. Remember John 14:27 and I will write you in one week!

LOVE YOUR MISSIONARY
ELDER BRIAN BOWLER

My basket cake

2009-02-14T16:44:00.001-08:00

I've taken 2 course of Wilton's cake decorating class. This is my final cake, we make different flowers for three weeks. On the last night we learned how to make the basket and put it all together. If you every thought about taking any of the classes at Micheal's there are so much fun. There are two more cake decorating course I want to take.

Finally

2009-02-12T16:17:00.000-08:00

Look Letti - I finally made a set of my own ... It is 4 and I have a shower to go to at 630. I am so bad at procrastinating. But I also wanted to show you my tag ... you could so something like this too.

Letter From Brian

2009-02-11T12:56:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone,

Well, it has been a really nice week this week. We have had some great lessons, some baptismal dates and interviews with the mission president.

We had great interviews with the mission president and I feel that him and I had a really good talk about my companion and that even though he really doesn't care to be a missionary anymore, that I should just keep helping him trudge along until the very end. He felt that I have been doing a very good job at becoming a missionary and friend to most of my companions. I feel pretty good about that.

Well, unfortunately my companion continues to get more and more trunky as each day goes by and well, that's life but I love the guy anyway.

We have Marcalina and Isaiah on date to be baptized on the 21st of February! We are really excited for them making such a great step in their lives and feel that they are trying their best to come close to God and are really understanding the importance of the gospel. Although Isaiah will be a child of record baptism we are still teaching him so that he is not behind the other kids in his knowledge of the gospel.

I've been thinking so much lately about well, a myriad of things that would affect things in my life if I didn't learn that I could lean on the Lord for help with things. I know for a plain and simple fact that I wouldn't be on a mission right now if I didn't feel that I could lean on the Lord. I just continue to reflect on my life when I have moments to think and ponder. I actually get that much because my companion and I really don't talk to much because we don't have much to talk about. It's not a bad thing it is just we don't. We get along well and just live life as if we were friends that just happen to be working together.

Honestly I cannot tell you all the things that I've been pondering lately because they are personal and not everyone needs to know about them, not to say I don't trust you all but, they are personal things that I want to fully understand before I let others know.

I love the Lord so very much and I hope that all who read my letters can feel my love for the Lord. I hope that things continue to do well despite minor setbacks. I LOVE YOU ALL, and remember John 14:27.

LOVE YOUR MISSIONARY,
ELDER BRIAN BOWLER

Letter from Brian

2009-02-11T12:54:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone,

This week has been quite the roller coaster week for me. With Gina actually coming back and trying to go full force, my companion getting closer to home and increasing with his complaints and learning much in my personal studies, I think that life just continues to take it's wonderful coarse.

Yes you heard me correctly when I said Gina is back! Last Tuesday we gave her a call and I talked to her for a while about things and surprisingly many good things happened to her that day. Basically everything she needed was given to her. She also said that she didn't mean that she was never going to come back to church but that she let her anger get the best of her. She also asked me to forgive her for what she had said and that she knew that I and my companion were praying for her. I forgave her and told her that we lash out irrationally sometimes when we get overwhelmed with the things that stress us.

We have begun to teach her two children, Isaiah and Marcelina the lessons in an attempt to help Elder Jackson go out with a baptism, or two!

Speaking of my companion, My heart yearns for his soul because he has completely given up on being a missionary. He is always talking down the area, complaining about something President Belnap has said or doesn't really care to do the things of the Lord that would help him find peace in his last three weeks. I pray every night to know how I can help him see the light in Boardman and I always get the same answer, just keep doing what you're doing. So I do and I try to get him to talk positively about the area, or the members or whatever gets him to think positively.

SO we've helped people do some real amazing things this week. We helped the Cunninghams, active members, seal the cracks in their floors so they could put the flooring down. That was fun and we helped them so much because neither of them can get down on their knees to do that. Then we helped the Mullers, less-active members, move some steel that they had in the way of building a lean-to on their shed. Bro. Muller would have done it if he could have but he is not supposed to lift anything more than 3 lbs. because of back problems and heart problems that tire him easily. We enjoyed that and we got to spread the love of Christ around to those who don't always get that given to them.

I've had time to think this week about many things that I have been reading about and I've felt the promptings of the Holy Ghost more in my everyday living. I felt that I'd truly listen for the Whisperings of the Spirit and I think that he talks way more than most of us are willing to listen. As I've listened and I've pondered the things of God in my heart and in my mind, the Spirit really just helps me to understand and sometimes tells me to think about it a little farther. For instance, this morning during my personal study I was reading in 2 Nephi Chapter 9 and I came across a very interesting scripture chase about the "robe of righteousness". It took me on a journey of great discovery as I ran from the Book of Mormon to Doctrine and Covenants over to the Old and New Testaments. In fact, it lead me right into Revelations Chapter 7. If you start in verse 14 of 2 Nephi 9 and follow the footnotes it should lead you to D&C 109:76. Then onto Leviticus 8:7 and to the Topical Guide under 'Righteousness'. Then onto Hebrews 12:11 (look in footnotes) and James 3:18. Then to Revelations 19:8 onto Matthew 22:11-14, 1 Nephi 12:10-11 and Alma 5:27.Then to Revelations 7:13-14, Alma 13:11-13, D&C 88:85 and onto 3 Nephi 27:19. I however, have not finished my journey and I will continue soon afterward and after I am done I will compile all this knowledge into something easy to understand and have you see where I had gone with all those scriptures.

This is only one of my great adventures that I have gone on with the scriptures and I will continue to go through until that great day when all shall be revealed unto us and we shall understand the things of God! The Lord loves us all very much and yearns for our return into his glorious presence.

Mom and Dad have a great Anniversary at Disneyland and enjoy the time you have together, with no children.

As I conclude my letter I would like to express my great appreciation for every one of you who faithfully read these letters and thrive on the words that I write. It means the world to me to know that I am so loved by so many. I would like to grant that the Lord always be with you and as hard times come into your life that you turn to Him in sincere prayer and express your concerns with him and counsel with him. He does listen and knows our needs. He wants us to communicate with him and show how much we care for him. I love you all so very much, In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Remember John 14:27 and that god will be with you till we meet again.

LOVE YOUR MISSIONARY,
ELDER BRIAN BOWLER

Letter from Brian

2009-02-11T12:53:00.000-08:00

Well,

It sounds like you all have had a busy week and that life is truly working itself out. I'm glad all is going well and that the Lord has really shown you how much he really cares. And if I forgot to say it last time CONGRATULATIONS CORY AND SHAY!

I know that the Lord has truly blessed my life this week but it isn't to say that it was a good week. For the most part it was a great week but I've understood that not everything good comes from great weeks. I have done some real hard labor this week at the Poe family farm. We fell three trees and bucked them up so that the Poes could use it for fire wood. It was definitely wonderful top see how happy they were when we showed up to help and were so willing to do so. I have slept nicely since because I was just so tired after that labor of love.

We also had zone conference this week and had a really good training about keeping our goals conceivable, achievable and measurable. Our mission president really does love us and tries to do what he feels inspired to do. Sister Belnap gave an amazing training on what true joy is and how we can feel true joy, not just pleasure. And then there was Gina... who has decided to throw everything away because life is getting tough. You know the old saying, 'when the going gets tough, the tough get going' it is a real and true statement. Only the tough will press through their trials and keep their faith in the Lord. I understand that things are difficult for her because she has not fully let go of things that don't matter and that keep her wrapped in chains but we tried to help her see the blessings in continuing in the faith of the Lord. She used some choice words and blamed the Church for her problems and told me that she was NEVER going to church again. When I heard her say that my heart broke into a million pieces and I just felt the Spirit tell me not to say anything to her because she has hardened her heart to the Lord and we sat in silence for about a minute. I learned at that point that I commit to the Lord that I will NOT forsake him when the going gets tough and I felt the Spirit rush through me and tell me that I truly am the tough that get going. I don't want to sound like I am full of myself but that is what the Spirit said to me.

It was hard to see her do that but you know that won't get me down and it has given more of a resolve to press forward so I thank her for showing me what I don't want in life. I still will not give up on her though.

As for my companion, all he talks about is going home and how wonderful it will be and so on but I just tell him that I have plenty of time that I don't need to worry about it. I just show that the Lord is with me in all things and I know that he will carry me through this trial with flying colors as they say. The sisters in my zone think that he was sent to me so that I could humble him. I think that was funny because I've heard that said time and time again just not that straight forward. I love my companion and will continue to until the day he leaves.

I think that is all the news I have for this week but I love you all and remember John 14:27.
LOVE YOUR MISSIONARY,
ELDER BRIAN BOWLER

Letter from Brian

2009-02-11T12:51:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone,
Well, it sounds like things are a hustlin and a bustlin around the house with such great events coming up. I am excited for Cory and Shay and the wedding and that everything is looking so up. it is one of the great and wonderful things that happen in life.
Elder Jackson is from Idaho Falls, Idaho. All was okay until day two and now all he does is complain about how "sucky" (I dislike that word, but he uses it) the area is and how he just wants to go home and so on. He is willing to work but he doesn't even care anymore. I try to keep him afloat with being upbeat and positive about the area and that we will find people to teach. We search everyday to find people to teach and we visit those who the ward has asked us to visit.
It is really hard when you have a really trunky companion who has made it his goal to make me trunky but I told him that will be a goal he will not achieve. He is a nice guy but he has just lost his direction of what he really needs to do at this point in time. I know that Chad knows how that is like and he can tell you how hard it is. I will continue to be steadfast and immovable in the faith and obedience to show him that there is still hope.
We have visited many new people this week and it is so awesome that there are so many wonderful people out in the world. The only problem is that they have lost their direction in life and we will continue to help them find their direction.
We have been working with Gina so much this week. On Saturday I had made her promise me that she was going to come to church on Sunday. When we went to wake her up she wasn't going to come and I told her that she had promised me and that I was going to help her keep that promise. Well her daughter Marcelina came to sacrament meeting and stayed for all three. Then we went to go get Gina again after and she had fallen back asleep and so we woke her up and I told her that she was going to come the way she is right now and she said, "Are you serious Bowler?" and told her I was because she had promised me and so she got up and was getting ready and said that she would meet us there and we brought Isaiah, her son, to primary the second hour. Well, then we went outside to see if her vehicle was there and behold it was there so we went to the RS room and she was sitting there. We went and talked to her and she was saying that before she came to church she was so mad at me because I got her up but then she realized that I was only doing because I cared about her that much. She then told me that she was so happy that I was so willing to continually come and get her up and not give up on her. She told me that means so much to her to know that I wouldn't want to give up on her. And to put the cherry on top of the day she went to a fireside at the stake center in Hermiston for people who struggle with depression. It was so awesome to see that she appreciates my persistence.
Transfers went well this week and I was so glad that president is such an inspired man. I know that he loves and cares about us because we try so hard to follow his direction that he gets from the Lord. I love that man and hope that the Lord continues to give him the strength to be the inspired mission president that he is.
Mom, could you specifically tell ALL my siblings that I love them and also tell DAD that. I love you too. I love everyone else as well and I hope that this is a productive week full of fun and joy for you and remember John 14:27.
LOVE YOUR MISSIONARY,
ELDER BRIAN BOWLER

Check it out

2009-02-01T09:30:00.000-08:00

We won a photo shoot, as a blog contest, with Rachel Clare, a talented photographer. Her work is really fun and she was super nice. anyway she put up a few pics of Rowdy on her blog.
and If you post a comment on there she will give us another free print. but just fyi the comment for Rowdy is right by the title of her blog post.

wordle

2009-01-28T10:39:00.000-08:00

{click picture to enlarge}

What this family means to us in 1000 words:

Appreciating (and sometimes laughing at) our differencesBobby casseroles, Pop's vegetable soup and Christmas biscuits and gravy...or special breakfast sandwiches for those who refuse to eat biscuits and gravy (I love you Lynda!)Love and support no matter what decisions we make, good or badSmiles from babies, and babies and more babies (CUTE babies!)Painting each other's walls, sweeping each other's floors and moving each other from home to home (no matter how many states we may move away)Playing spoons until somebody bleedsSeeing the color orange and always thinking of Cody (and Paigee!!)Cramming 30 people into a tiny room to watch AFVAlways knowing you are in somebody's FP at nightBorrowing books, maternity clothes, furniture and toolsWatching Bobby, Cody and Tad torture your children, knowing how much these men love those babiesHard-working men; strong, loving women and fantastic, care-free childrenWearing goggles while cutting onionsDressed up princesses and dirty little soccer starsChecking blogs until your eyes hurt and waterRed box performances and announcements, from silly to seriousTrust..in each other..in our family
cell phones-all in the same network, siblings that are friends, and friends that are like siblings, five children having five sons in 16 months, phone calls about first tooths, daughter-in-laws that love our sons and sons-in-law that love our daughters, lots of well-behaved, well-trained, fun children, an exceedingly glad nan! (nan)
red vans, Greybulls, Grayson, shark dances, stand up for your month 12 days of Christmas, nieces, nephews, Kaidee and Chloe jumping into the freezing pool for a dollar, golfing with Pops, Nan's egg rolls, Amelia's chicken tacos, Coles hand-me-downs, nativity bench, heavenly Hinckley thanksgivings, Nan's height door, Syd, Chloe, and Kaidee crushes on same guy at same time, Tiffany's spicy chicken, Letti's baby whisperings, Pops famous breakfasts, Pops staying the whole time at the hospital waiting for the baby, Dee's steaks, supporting me on a mission, patience while I found Celeste, and most of all for a family that likes each other, and Syd's six month from now fiancé (cody)
Moms "on my way home from work" phone calls, Dads random (that's for you, Paige) phone calls about a new movie he's seen or about the yummy dinner he's making, and knowing he is really calling just to check on you. Family game nights. Waiting and waiting and waiting =) in anticipation for the next family visit whether it's in Texas or California. Loving nieces and nephews enough to wipe noses and change diapers of kids that aren't your own, sharing new recipes and recipe blogs, sharing special recipes - lovin' Grandma Mary's Sopa! Brothers-in-law calling for gift ideas for wives. Posting funny home videos and pictures on blogs. Somebody calling to check on me at least once every day since Craig has been gone. (We're still surviving) *his address is 1246 Sherman St. #3 Hot Springs, SD 57747. Husbands that will do anything to protect and take care of their families. Good examples in my life from each and every person in our family. Feeling the love!!! Can't wait to be together at Thanksgiving! (Lynda)
hikes at the cabin, going to the beach, making s'mores, spending the night, playing games, reading Scriptures together, wearing goofy glasses with the rowdy bowlers (zoey)
having a family bbq the day I came home from the hospital with my babies, DI trips, helping family move and move again, blogs to keep in touch, Chase loving to eat whatever Amelia likes, Tad's grumpiness, mustaches, Bobby tying the kids together and laughing till it hurts, Graysons deep voice, Kodi crying when she leaves church, all the calls and concerns when Cole was in the hospital, Zoe's blondness, looking for the pieces to the chopper at Iya's house, chicken tacos,Tad's homemade taquitos, Angel games and tailgating, lynda's muddy buddies, sisters in the delivery room, game nights, last minute family dinners, Disneyland, cell phones, Sonic, Babe's, great sister in laws, cutest nieces and nephews in the world, Tiffany letting me take her newborn to get pictures, living close, bringing kids to baseball games with no jackets, careface, girl, carrott, clope, earthquakes, pictionary with Lynda, Iya, and Tiffany, Lakers (letti)
Pazookies, having embarrasing stories told over and over, laughing, wooden spoons, laughing, special child, new year's eve in a motel room, swinging and singing on Tad and Iya's swing in nan's yard (thanks again, love it), mouse traps, the whole family working together to make one special dress for one special girl, waiting up for teenagers, missing teenagers, looking forward to teenagers, choo choo trains, wii, laughing more, letters, halloween at Letti's, RED, rainbow sandals, princesses, hearts, fiftieth birthday calendar, foster plants and granddogs, Carys' "Grayson can walk now," conversations with Paigee, Zoey with a y, a rowdy after seventeen years, safety and protection... even when going over a cliff, hair cuts, Bowler beige paint, Rob's button box (nan)
new years in apple valley (a little early), baths with pops, big or little, spring break with deb and marv, pops spider, the moon, cody telling family about my wedding, moms white hair at tads wedding, nans toilet paper holder, cody marrying somebody as goofy as him, going with mom to barstow and being back before school started, big wheels, boys against girls when mom and dad would go out, DAD IN THE BISHOPRIC?, camp leader, pops breakfasts, carmacks Christmas cd's, tad thinking he was going to die, (so now amelia is part of the family), #3, darian begging letti to go golfing (bob)
Getting sucked into the t.v room, "Quiet" Laker games with Nan. "I love you and like you too", Up do's & make-up with Sissy, Pasta Italia trips, Phone calls about pasta italia trips, "Big or little", Grandma Bowlers Chocolate and Peanut butter cookies!, Grandpa Doc's hats, secrets that always get out (except for the Rowdy's), Miguel's bean rice and cheese, Bonnelos with Sissy, beach trips just for T.K's, Being a grown-up who has watched High School Musical more than once, Byrd girls prayers (they never leave anyone out), Cramming into the kitchen to assemble egg rolls (tiff)

1000!

2009-01-28T06:27:00.000-08:00

Getting sucked into the t.v room, "Quiet" Laker games with Nan. "I love you and like you too", Up do's & make-up with Sissy, Pasta Italia trips, Phone calls about pasta italia trips, "Big or little", Grandma Bowlers Chocolate and Peanut butter cookies!, Grandpa Doc's hats, secrets that always get out (except for the Rowdy's), Miguel's bean rice and cheese, Bonnelos with Sissy, beach trips just for T.K's, Being a grown-up who has watched High School Musical more than once, Byrd girls prayers (they never leave anyone out), Cramming into the kitchen to assemble egg rolls.

903

2009-01-28T05:52:00.000-08:00

new years in apple valley (a little early), baths with pops, big or little, spring break with deb and marv, pops spider, the moon, cody telling family about my wedding, moms white hair at tads wedding, nans toilet paper holder, cody marrying somebody as goofy as him, going with mom to barstow and being back before school started, big wheels, boys against girls when mom and dad would go out, DAD IN THE BISHOPRIC?, camp leader, pops breakfasts, carmacks Christmas cd's, tad thinking he was going to die, (so now amelia is part of the family), #3, darian begging letti to go golfing

800

2009-01-27T12:56:00.000-08:00

Pazookies, having embarrasing stories told over and over, laughing, wooden spoons, laughing, special child, new year's eve in a motel room, swinging and singing on Tad and Iya's swing in nan's yard (thanks again, love it), mouse traps, the whole family working together to make one special dress for one special girl, waiting up for teenagers, missing teenagers, looking forward to teenagers, choo choo trains, wii, laughing more, letters, halloween at Letti's, RED, rainbow sandals, princesses, hearts, fiftieth birthday calendar, foster plants and granddogs, Carys' "Grayson can walk now," conversations with Paigee, Zoey with a y, a rowdy after seventeen years, safety and protection... even when going over a cliff, hair cuts, Bowler beige paint, Rob's button box...

700.....

2009-01-27T10:08:00.001-08:00

having a family bbq the day I came home from the hospital with my babies, DI trips, helping family move and move again, blogs to keep in touch, Chase loving to eat whatever Amelia likes, Tad's grumpiness, mustaches, Bobby tying the kids together and laughing till it hurts, Graysons deep voice, Kodi crying when she leaves church, all the calls and concerns when Cole was in the hospital, Zoe's blondness, looking for the pieces to the chopper at Iya's house, chicken tacos,Tad's homemade taquitos, Angel games and tailgating, lynda's muddy buddies, sisters in the delivery room, game nights, last minute family dinners, Disneyland, cell phones, Sonic, Babe's, great sister in laws, cutest nieces and nephews in the world, Tiffany letting me take her newborn to get pictures, living close, bringing kids to baseball games with no jackets, careface, girl, carrott, clope, earthquakes, pictionary with Lynda, Iya, and Tiffany, Lakers

550

2009-01-27T09:44:00.000-08:00

hikes at the cabin, going to the beach, making s'mores, spending the night, playing games, reading Scriptures together, wearing goofy glasses with the rowdy bowlers.
-zoey

525...

2009-01-27T09:02:00.000-08:00

.....Moms "on my way home from work" phone calls, Dads random (that's for you, Paige) phone calls about a new movie he's seen or about the yummy dinner he's making, and knowing he is really calling just to check on you. Family game nights. Waiting and waiting and waiting =) in anticipation for the next family visit whether it's in Texas or California. Loving nieces and nephews enough to wipe noses and change diapers of kids that aren't your own, sharing new recipes and recipe blogs, sharing special recipes - lovin' Grandma Mary's Sopa! Brothers-in-law calling for gift ideas for wives. Posting funny home videos and pictures on blogs. Somebody calling to check on me at least once every day since Craig has been gone. (We're still surviving) *his address is 1246 Sherman St. #3 Hot Springs, SD 57747. Husbands that will do anything to protect and take care of their families. Good examples in my life from each and every person in our family. Feeling the love!!! Can't wait to be together at Thanksgiving!

350

2009-01-25T22:30:00.000-08:00

.....red vans, Greybulls, Grayson, shark dances, stand up for your month 12 days of Christmas, nieces, nephews, Kaidee and Chloe jumping into the freezing pool for a dollar, golfing with Pops, Nan's egg rolls, Amelia's chicken tacos, Coles hand-me-downs, nativity bench, heavenly Hinckley thanksgivings, Nan's height door, Syd, Chloe, and Kaidee crushes on same guy at same time, Tiffany's spicy chicken, Letti's baby whisperings, Pops famous breakfasts, Pops staying the whole time at the hospital waiting for the baby, Dee's steaks, supporting me on a mission, patience while I found Celeste, and most of all for a family that likes each other, and Syd's six month from now fiance

250...

2009-01-25T18:25:00.000-08:00

cell phones-all in the same network, siblings that are friends, and friends that are like siblings, five children having five sons in 16 months, phone calls about first tooths, daughter-in-laws that love our sons and sons-in-law that love our daughters, lots of well-behaved, well-trained, fun children, an exceedingly glad nan!

1000th Post!!

2009-01-23T21:46:00.001-08:00

In honor of the Bowler Family's 1000th post I've created a family project!

What this family means to us in 1000 words:
Appreciating (and sometimes laughing at) our differences
Bobby casseroles, Pop's vegetable soup and Christmas biscuits and gravy...or special breakfast sandwiches for those who refuse to eat biscuits and gravy (I love you Lynda!)
Love and support no matter what decisions we make, good or bad
Smiles from babies, and babies and more babies (CUTE babies!)
Painting each other's walls, sweeping each other's floors and moving each other from home to home (no matter how many states we may move away)
Playing spoons until somebody bleeds
Seeing the color orange and always thinking of Cody (and Paigee!!)
Cramming 30 people into a tiny room to watch AFV
Always knowing you are in somebody's FP at night
Borrowing books, maternity clothes, furniture and tools
Watching Bobby, Cody and Tad torture your children, knowing how much these men love those babies
Hard-working men; strong, loving women and fantastic, care-free children
Wearing goggles while cutting onions
Dressed up princesses and dirty little soccer stars
Checking blogs until your eyes hurt and water
Red box performances and announcements, from silly to serious
Trust..in each other..in our family

So, that's the first 200 words...please add on and we'll stop at 1000....(just copy and paste the above text and use the "word count" feature to see how many words you've added...then just go to "edit"...(the little pencil) and repost).

I love you Bowler family....with all my heart and all my guts!

Happy Birthday 3rd Sierra

2009-01-21T13:14:00.001-08:00

She is three years old today, she loves being a princess.
She is still a monkey, she runs and runs, jumps plays all day.

She want to be big just like her cousins, she is learning how to play big kid games.

We had fun at a bounce house party today. The boys are learning to play fuzzball.

And learning to drive.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SIERRA AND JILL !!!!

Who are all these nerds?

2009-01-06T21:03:00.000-08:00

We had fun with y'all while you were here.
smooches, C,C & R

Our unique day at the beach

2009-01-06T20:48:00.000-08:00

But it all seems so lovely now!

Letter from Brian

2009-01-02T09:40:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
Zone Conference was really god this year, not as good as last year but it measured up fairly well. Pres. Belnap gave a really heartfelt training on obedience and was very concerned about a few of the missionaries in the mission but for most of us it was just correcting our little disobedience's that we have, because even as missionaries we aren't perfect. For our Christmas movie we watched Rudy. I've always enjoyed that show, minus the swearing, because of the story behind or the message behind it. Sis. Belnap gave a good message about Christmas. She read a story called Teach the Children. A story about Santa teaching a woman the true meaning of Christmas and admonishing her to teach the children what things of Christmas truly meant. It was a really good story and she gave all of us the story so that we could always remember it. The slide show that we made as a mission was really good and we all have copies of that. Overall the Christmas Zone Conference was a great success.
Now, about calling on Christmas day I plan to call around 7:30am your time (6:30am my time) if that works for you guys. I will be able to call from the mission cell phone at that time so I don't tie up our members phone. Next week we basically get three P-days in a row because we get our regular P-day, Christmas Eve (in which we were told to strictly keep our visiting to the afternoon hours), and Christmas Day (where we are told to only visit if we have been invited) to ourselves. I will be able to e-mail next Tuesday so that everything is squared away with being able to call at the time I have outlined. Let me know if that won't work for you all.
I LOVE the Walty's! They are a great couple who always love to talk to us and to joke around with us. I love serving them in their own home and showing how much I appreciate them allowing us to be in their home. Sis. Walty still works but is retiring in January and Bro. Walty retired several years ago. They are so wonderful to allow us into their family because they have asked us if we would like to have family prayer with them each night. Of course you know me, I jumped all over that opportunity to have family prayer. I am just feeling so at home with the Waltys just like when I was at the Wallaces.
Speaking of the Wallaces I got a Christmas card from them last week telling me that they are going to be in AZ for Christmas because their son and daughter-in-law are going to be sealed in the temple. Also, I don't know if I told you that Bro. Wallace had gone in for surgery last month, but he is healing quite nicely. I miss living with them because they were like another set of grandparents to me and the Waltys make me feel that way too.
I did get the package that you sent and Bro. Walty had signed for it but I definitely got it and I just want to thank you for your thoughtfulness and your love.
I haven't been getting Bro. Schlappi's e-mail letters. I have been wondering when he was going to write to me but I guess he has I just haven't gotten them. I hope that whatever reason they haven't gone through will subside soon because I would love to hear from him. Of course, I think you are correct mom, he has really taken me somewhat as his own mostly because he had all girls and no sons to send on missions. I don't think any of his daughters have served missions but don't quote me on that. It is perfectly legal for him to e-mail me because that is generally easier for the public to get letters to missionaries.
Well, Elder Lunceford is doing quite well, he is growing in the gospel by leaps and bounds and he has really taken to my striving to be more obedient because of the miracles that I know will happen as we are obedient to the rules that we have been given as missionaries. Him and I are getting along well, we have fun together and we get work done in this wonderful town of Boardman. I just asked him if he knew any of those people you asked him and he said yes. How long ago was it that our family lived in south Orem? If it was at least twenty years ago than he said that it was highly possible that it was his family.
I am absolutely in love with Boardman just as I was with Milton-Freewater. It is such a wonderful place and the members are so amazing to just accept me the way I am and to strive to give their support. It reminds me so much of our ward back at home, which is why I love it so much. I just can't explain the feelings that I have about it but it is pretty much the same thing to me. And guess what, by our simple obedience miracles are beginning to come forth because there are people bringing forth people to teach. I know that is one of the great tender mercies of the Lord because He asks us to have obedience to his anointed servants and to him and he will bless us. I am so pleased that I have been taught such wonderful things from home. I don't think I will ever be able to thank you and dad enough for the many wonderful lessons you taught me when I lived with you in your home. You both did the right thing and even if I didn't like the way they were taught I definitely learned about obedience and the consequences for disobedience. Well, I think that you have been updated on my goings-on... except that we had an excellent lesson last night with a man named Tyler and he absolutely loves being able to talk religion with us. We definitely had the Spirit with us as we taught and he was enthralled in what we had to say and asked very good intriguing questions. I just love being able to talk to people who like to listen to what we have to say. I love you all very much and I Can't wait to talk to you on Christmas and remember John 14:27.

LOVE YOUR MISSIONARY,
ELDER BRIAN BOWLER

Home for the Holiday's

2008-12-30T04:42:00.000-08:00

So Ryan and tyler beebe and i went to the movies and wanted to dress in some cool colthes, so what do you think???

Taylor Andrews Photoshoot

2008-12-29T23:20:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone just wanted to post some pics. this is a photo shoot we did at school. the girl at the top was my model her name is tiffany

Merry Christmas

2008-12-26T06:06:00.000-08:00

Sierra is learning to ride a bike in her Sleeping Beauty dress.
Grammy made Sierra five princess dress, this one is The Little Mermaid

She also got all the princess dolls to go with the dresses

She was so excited that Santa came to her house she didn't know what to open first. Her favorite gift was from Lynda, a fake make-up eyeshadow pack. Christmas was so nice, we open presents in the morning, Jayson made breakfast. The the Carmack and the Bowlers came over for more present and dinner. Carys and Livee looked so cute wearing Sierra's little princess dresses (sorry no picture).

I hope everyone had a Very Merry Christmas

Cole

2008-12-19T19:57:00.000-08:00

Poor kid is in the hospital with a broken leg (femur). I don't have a lot of info. Letti did call an ambulance because they could tell it was broken and they didn't want to move him too much. She thinks that he might have just jumped of the couch and landed wrong. Latest I've heard is that they are still waiting for the x-ray results. Please say a little prayer for him.

Amelia's Christmas survey

2008-12-12T12:25:00.000-08:00

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Both...depends on the size
2. Real tree or Artificial? Real!!
3. When do you put up your Christmas Tree? Last Saturday...so...early December??
4. When do you take the tree down? The day after Christmas!
5. Do you like eggnog? ya but just a swallow or two. Not enough to buy a whole carton (Me too Celeste)
6. Favorite gift received as a child? It sounds really silly but I remember getting a "Guess" sweater from my grandma that I loved...especially because my older cousin got the same one in a different color...I thought it was SOOO cool!
7. Hardest person to buy for? Parents
8. Easiest person to buy for?Kids
9. Do you have a nativity scene? Yes...one from Nan! The kids love it...but baby Jesus always ends up getting misplaced!
10. Mail or email Christmas cards? There is just something irreplaceable about getting mail in your hands...(yay Celeste, I totally agree)
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? Good thing...I can't even think of one!
12. Favorite Christmas Movie? Christmas Vacation, Elf, and A Christmas Story
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Usually after the kids' birthdays...so mid Nov.
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Yay...It's not "regifting"...it's finding that gift a "better home"
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Ham...and cookies...not together...not touching! just kidding
16. Lights on the tree? crazy colored lights (us too)!!
17. Favorite Christmas song? O Holy Night and Santa Baby!
18. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Nope...I could google though! haha
20. Angel on the tree top or a star? A colorful-light up star...it's horribly cheap and ugly...but it's a tradition!
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? morning2
2. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? The pressure of making sure you get everyone the right gift or at least something they'll like!! urg???!!
23. Favorite ornament theme or color? I love our colorful, meaningful tree...I love mine and Tad's first ornaments from Cody and Lynda and the kids' first ornaments and the ones with their hand prints!
24. Favorite food for Christmas dinner? Ham...or cheesy potatoes
25. What do you want for Christmas this year? I want Tad to be home...oh, and Adobe photoshop..haha :)

Homeowners!!!!

2008-12-11T18:02:00.000-08:00

We finally own a home!!!!!! I never thought it would happen!!!. It is here in Cypress. Its so cute! Its 2 bed 2 bath. Its a little cottagey. There is a good size yard. and my FAV, Is this coolest brick fireplace. I know we haven't really told anyone because we didn't know if it was all going to work out but its something we have been busy with! anyway I am sooo excited and I will post pictures soon!

Celeste's response

2008-12-11T17:36:00.000-08:00

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping paper
2. Real tree or Artificial? fuh rizzle.. I mean real
3. When do you put up your Christmas Tree? This is the first year we have put our own up, and it was in the..first week of December sometime
4. When do you take the tree down? New Year's day. Or when it is brown. Whichever comes first ( good job tiff)
5. Do you like eggnog? ya but just a swallow or two. Not enough to buy a whole carton
6. Favorite gift received as a child? This little kiddy computer that helped you learn the alphabet
7. Hardest person to buy for? Dads
8. Easiest person to buy for? Rowdy. he is easily amused
9. Do you have a nativity scene? Yes! My mom gave me one I loved when I was younger. and Cody brought me one last year that is soo cool. Everyone's clothes are like these stylized quilts that tell more of the christmas story
10. Mail or email Christmas cards? There is just something irreplaceable about getting mail in your hands
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? ? Its the thought that counts
12. Favorite Christmas Movie? aye aye. Its so hard to pick. The Christmas Story, Elf, Its a Wonderful Life, I love em all.
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Usually I am running late, but this year I started before Thanksgiving.
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Regifted? yeah, but I feel so guilty now
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? English Toffee and Fudge
16. Lights on the tree? crazy colored lights
17. Favorite Christmas song? O Holy Night always gives me goosebumps. Sorry to take up space but this line I love. " Long lay the world in Sin and ever pining, till he appeared and the soul felt its worth."
18. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, and Blitzen. (Good job tiff :)
20. Angel on the tree top or a star? The best kind of Angel... Anaheim Angel. good job tiff
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? morning
22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? political correctness nazis
23. Favorite ornament theme or color?White lights are my fav, but they aren't on our tree this year
24. Favorite food for Christmas dinner? green bean casserole, sounds good to me too
25. What do you want for Christmas this year? My mission journal written on un-acid free paper copied

2008-12-11T08:59:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone,
I love Boardman already!!! It is just like Millton-Freewater. The members are great people and so loving and the area, although small, is a wonderful area. I feel that the Lord has given me the great and wonderful blessing of being able to serve in the greatest areas in the mission. This is going to truly be a most wonderful experience.
My new address is:
113 SW Cottonwood loop
Boardman, OR 97818
I live with some members named the Walty's and they are an awesome couple who are so ecstatic to have missionaries in their home. I will say that I will be so sad to leave this place when that time comes but I am going to work as hard as I can so that the Lord is pleased with me. The Walty's are an older couple and just love to spoil the missionaries. Sis. Walty has a treat for us almost every night when we get in. She said that she would feed us entirely too much but that is alright with me! ;) And we have access to a DVD player from our members. They would be excited to let me see a video.
Well, I found out that one of my companions, Elder Canty leaves us tomorrow. He is from Colorado and he is a great missionary and guy. Although I've only been with him for a week I love the guy and we get along well. My other companion, Elder Lunceford has been out for one transfer, this one is his second. He is also an amazing guy and is going to be an excellent missionary. He is 25 years old, by the way Kyle did you know a Mark Lunceford who played basketball for Mountain View, and if you haven't caught my drift he is from Orem, UTAH!!!! Isn't that absolutely crazy, another companion from Orem. I am so excited to be able to serve with him. He told me that his mom is the same way that you are, mom. She is just as excited as you are when it comes to her missionary. They live in south Orem by Lakeridge Jr.
The missionary work is slow in Boardman right now but I am going to work hard to bring it up because the Lord has sent me here to work, so I will work my tail off for him!
Tomorrow we have our Christmas Zone Conference and I am so looking forward to seeing half of the mission again and see some of my old companions. It will be a great Zone Conference and I will let you know all about it.
Well, I think that I have updated you on everything that you would love to know and I LOVE YOU ALL VERY MUCH!!!! I am so excited to be in my new area and remember John 14:27. May the Lord keep you and Bless you this Christmas season.
LOVE YOUR MISSIONARY,
ELDER BRIAN BOWLER

Family Survey

2008-12-10T19:02:00.000-08:00

I stole this questionnaire from the Christian Kiddos blog. I thought it was a fun one. And it's all about Christmas.

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping paper
2. Real tree or Artificial? There’s nothing like the smell of a REAL tree.
3. When do you put up your Christmas Tree? As early as possible. Keep in mind it is always real so I don't want it to die before Christmas. We put ours up on the 4th this year.
4. When do you take the tree down? New Year's day. Or when it is brown. Whichever comes first
5. Do you like eggnog? NO
6. Favorite gift received as a child? Barbie and her Camping set, complete with Tent, sleeping bag, Jeep and little BBQ
7. Hardest person to buy for? Hmmm... that's hard one I'd say my Dad.
8. Easiest person to buy for? Kids. They are still so easy. Barbie, and a Choo choo.
9. Do you have a nativity scene? No, but I really want one!!!
10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail, they are running late. Sorry family.
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? can't think of one at the moment. Probably a regressed memory
12. Favorite Christmas Movie? Miracle on 34th Street.
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? As soon as possible. Middle of November.
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? No
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Pecan ball cookies
16. Lights on the tree? We have white lights. We have a very pretty tree. Bobby would have it no other way.
17. Favorite Christmas song? Silent Night
18. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, and Blitzen.
20. Angel on the tree top or a star? The best kind of Angel... Anaheim Angel.
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Pajamas on Christmas Eve and the rest on Christmas morning.
22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? I can't think of one. I used to hate the fact that Christmas would start before Thanksgiving. Now that I have kids. It's a good reminder
23. Favorite ornament theme or color? Our tree is red, green, silver and gold
24. Favorite food for Christmas dinner? green bean casserole.
25. What do you want for Christmas this year? Camera

I think I am supposed to Tag now, but i'll leave it up to you... No pressure. I think you all will do the right thing. Hehehehe. Happy Holidays!

2008-12-10T18:12:00.000-08:00

GOOD DAY EVERYONE,
Well, What big news do you want to read first, I had a great Thanksgiving up in the mountains just like you all. One of the members in our ward lives up in the Blues Mountains and it was really foggy. We had two non-members and three less-actives. It was great and we had fun just being able to relax and enjoy others company. Oh by the way the pie turned out great but nobody wanted to try it. That was okay with me because I got a whole pistachio pie all to myself. Thanks for the box with the stuff I needed. I was surprised when I was the one that was getting a package because my companion was expecting a package.
Speaking of my companion, we have finally resolved our differences and we are great buds. We finally enjoy one anothers company and are always joking around with one another. It has been the greatest feeling to feel like we have accomplished something great.
So, the big news of the hour... I'm being transferred!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It came as a major shock to the both of us. I am being transferred to Boardman, Oregon, another small town. I am being transferred into a threesome for three weeks. My two companion's names are Elder Canty (Who goes home in three weeks), and Elder Lunsford (who I am greenie busting, or I am going to be his second companion.) After Elder Canty leaves I become senior companion and I think I was told District Leader. I am a bit nervous about it knowing that it will be my first time being senior companion. Mom, you were mostly correct. I will get you the address next week, after I get to the new area.
Sunday was a really hard day for me because that is when it hit me that I was leaving Milton-Freewater. I have truly grown to love Milton and the members. I was fighting all sacrament not to cry and they had me give a farewell testimony. It felt like leaving home again and I've never felt this sad to leave an area before. I think that Chad and any other missionaries could tell you how hard it is to leave your favorite area. I have loved all my areas but this one was just so much different than the other two and although I will miss certain people in my last areas I will miss all the members in this ward. I am excited to have another great adventure in a new place but I am sad to leave my last one.
A great thing happened this week, we found four new investigators and Norma is still on the straight road to baptism. My companion and his new companion are going to make sure that she stays on date and they should have three or four other people on date this week. I am so happy for my companion and all of the work that we did together with the help of the Lord and the Spirit. It will be great to see what happens to this area after I leave tomorrow.
SO, I am sending home two packages. The smaller package, if you could just put it in storage with the rest of my stuff that would be wonderful. The bigger package, however, needs attention. It has the crockpot that you sent to me because I haven't used it at all and probably won't so I'm sending it home, I saved the box so you could put it back in it. Then I am sending home a special "tree" that I bought when I was in Vancouver, you can set it out if you'd like. Then inside the crockpot I have sent home a video tape, it has my testimony for the Christmas FHE and if you'd be kind enough not to watch it before then it would be great! You will need to find a video camera that takes the particular size of the video if you don't have the right size. I'm also sending home some things that the Wallaces gave to me: Mt. St. Helen's ash, Stone from the construction of the Portland Temple, and elk poop hand soap, if you could put those in storage that would also be nice.
Well, it sounds like everyone had a great Thanksgiving and that all are still well. I love you all very much and hope that your holiday season is merry and bright. Remember John 14:27 and that I'll see you in the Lord's own due time, a.k.a less than a year. HAHA...it is kind of sad to think about, but my Spirit's are up.

LOVE YOUR MISSIONARY,
ELDER BRIAN BOWLER

2008-12-10T18:11:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone,
Well, another week... and I've got some exciting news. Norma has agreed to be baptized on the 3rd of January! Yay, we were so excited when she said that she would and she wants to become a member and her family is supporting her in her decision.
Other than that, not too much has happened except we've been told that we are not allowed to help the incapacitated member anymore because he is becoming very ungrateful and is just demanding of everyone and nobody feels that we should help because we don't need that kind of negative response. He has not taken any one's advice and shot down the help of the state because they were going to take half of his retirement to pay for things and then they were going to take complete care of him. The bishop has asked that everyone basically back off and leave him be if he is not willing to work with us and be grateful. It is a sad situation that he has put himself in and that the bishop is no longer feeling that it is a good thing to help him. He hates to do that but, we can't spend our whole day catering to him, there are others who need help in this world. We keep going out and knocking on doors day after day trying to find those whom the Lord has prepared, and we will, but we haven't found them yet.
Since I haven't got an e-mail from my family I suppose that no news is good news and that all are having fun in California.
Oh! Transfers are next week and so the always asked question, what is happening to ME? Of course, wow it has already been another transfer. I can't believe that it has gone by so quickly. Let me know what you think and you'll find out next week.
Remember this thanksgiving to be thankful for all the many wonderful and absolute blessings that you have been given from God. Remember to be thankful for the love that families share towards one another and especially to joy that comes when we all gather together to celebrate families this holiday season. You will find more peace and happiness when you look for the beauty rather than the beast in life. I know that I am s thankful for family and friends and for all the love and support that they give to me. I'll be thinking about you all on Thanksgiving Day. I LOVE YOU ALL very much, and remember John 14:27.
LOVE YOUR MISSIONARY,
ELDER BRIAN BOWLER

Tuesday Night at Nan's Piano

2008-12-09T19:50:00.000-08:00

An important part of our Christmas decorating is the "play" nativity sets. I took a big piece of furniture out of our livingroom this year and wondered where to store the sets this year. The piano bench! Perfect! And the piano makes a great stage.

Later.... Kaidee and I read a book together, This is the Season (illustrated by Simon Dewey), then we sang the primary song together, she grew tired, I tickled her back, and sang to her and...

(I LOVE this piano, given to me by some dear, dear friends in our Ward. It is always available for little fingers to play on, or yours, come on over to Nan's piano bar. I'll make some hot carmel apple cider for you).

Y nan

p.s. Iya and Carys if you look really close you can see my foster plant which I also love.

The REAL Christmas Spirit

2008-12-07T13:17:00.001-08:00

Saturday night Nan and Pops came down to our house in Cypress. We had a really good time with them, and then we got to see "Reflections of Christ". Its a photography exhibit reflecting scenes from Christ's life. Its on until Tuesday if anyone close wants to come experience it. But if you can't I posted a little video. They basically turned our primary room into a beautiful gallery to display the photos. Nan's favorite is when Jesus is being baptised. See how happy he is! One of Cody's favorite is the manger scene, with just Jesus, Mary and Joseph. I couldn't pick one favorite. They are amazing! and so real, which was an excellent reminder that Christ IS real. It was really uplifting and got us all in the true spirit of Christmas. I hope we can all grow a little closer to Christ this Christmas and not get overwhelmed by all the hype.
Loves,
The Bowlers

Reflections of Christ

2008-12-07T13:15:00.000-08:00

Hand art 08

2008-12-03T18:45:00.000-08:00

Well, it started with Zoe and Livee at my house and then somehow all the little kids at the cabin wanted me to draw on their hands. My favorite part was hearing what themes they came up with.

Kodi Lynn just got a new dog MCoy (sp?)
She did not want to wash her hand! and if any part came off she wanted me to redoo it :)

Livee's theme cracked me up. She wanted "Utah"
If you look close you can see Syd, some scissors, the temple and Livee wanted a diamond ring and USA at the top Zoe wanted a beach theme and a surfing crab on her thumb

Some others were Kaidee's Kobe/Lakers, Paige's Scrabble, and Chloe's Angels.
Thanks Moms for not getting mad. I was actually just going through my old school stuff and saw my first referal (one of two) was for drawing on my friend!

Shout out

2008-12-03T18:32:00.001-08:00

Heres a shout out to Tiff for sharing the recipe for these yummy dinner cakes. Delicious, Easy and Cute too!

4th folder, 4th picture

2008-11-23T09:36:00.000-08:00

Sierra wants to be a chef when she grows up. Her she is learning how to frost a cupcake