Hello to all my familia de Utah:)
Well things are going great here! I'm currently still in Arlington, ha. Still companions with my MTC comp. It's been great! We are teaching 1 family (of 4) and a mother and her 18 year old daughter who is a senior in high school. All are progressing very well. I am very privileged to be a part of the teaching process for them. They are all great. So ya that's the work. We have transfers coming up in a week. And I'm praying both Elder Reed and I both stay. Cause some great things are really starting to happen in this area. It happens to me every time. Every area I've been transferred to, nothing is really going on. Then when things begin to start happening and I get transferred and it starts all over again. So fun though! It's nice seeing the fruits of your labor. The Gospel is amazing.
So Austin is getting his papers ready! That's awesome! Keep me informed on that. How is Brock doing? How is learning the language going? I bet he is doing great.
Well I know the Church is true and the Book is blue. I just love sharing it with others and helping them feel the hold in their lives they thought they never had. I know that Jesus Christ is the Son of the living God. I know by faith we can do anything. And it is by grace that we can live by the power of God. It enables us to do anything. Don't we have such an awesome and loving Father in Heaven?!
Sincerely,
Elder Ivan Ballif
Happy Valentine's Day!
February 1, 2010
Dear Mom,
So ya, oh so mom, the shoes you guys sent me out with are coming apart. The stitching on the left shoe is coming undone. What would you like me to do about it? Send it home or just wear them out?
Well the week was a very good one. The two families we are teaching both came to church. The lessons in church were great.
So what's new back home? In my mission the member dinner policy just changed. No member dinner unless they have nonmembers or less actives there or if it's Sunday or Monday. Ha, I get to drop a couple of pounds hopefully. But ya mom, you have a good week. Mom, only by the Holy Ghost can we speak with authority and power.
Love you, Elder Ballif.
P.S. Transfers are next week on February 9. I don't find out anything till February 8. So, send my mail to the P.O. Box till you get my new address or I find out if I stay.
So ya, oh so mom, the shoes you guys sent me out with are coming apart. The stitching on the left shoe is coming undone. What would you like me to do about it? Send it home or just wear them out?
Well the week was a very good one. The two families we are teaching both came to church. The lessons in church were great.
So what's new back home? In my mission the member dinner policy just changed. No member dinner unless they have nonmembers or less actives there or if it's Sunday or Monday. Ha, I get to drop a couple of pounds hopefully. But ya mom, you have a good week. Mom, only by the Holy Ghost can we speak with authority and power.
Love you, Elder Ballif.
P.S. Transfers are next week on February 9. I don't find out anything till February 8. So, send my mail to the P.O. Box till you get my new address or I find out if I stay.
December 29, 2009
Hey mom,
Well I talked to you four days ago. And I loved it! Well, let me give you an update on the area. We just had Rob get baptized, it was great. Definitely the largest baptism I've ever been a part of, nearly 200 people. We have a running joke with the Balderas family; kind of that Rob was a “High-Profile baptism” :->. But ya, I love that family so much. I know I will keep in touch with them for the rest of my life; the same with the Zucati family in Monroe. They came to see me last week. I've it was nice to see them. So the new stuff going on! Bishop Brown has challenged a family to be baptized in February. We are excited. They are a really nice family their last name is Anglin. The dad's name is Marc or Mark? The mom's name is Cori and they have two sons Daniel and Gabriel. Daniel wrestles. It's fun talking to them about some of his tournaments and stuff. I think Daniel is 12 and Gabriel is eight or nine. We are excited to get to know them a little better.
Ya, other than the Anglin's, we will begin teaching the Tysons this January. Okay, so the Sunderland's live with our WML and are members. Their friends are Sherry and Terry Tyson. Sister Sunderland has talked with Sherry tons about the Gospel. She has given her pamphlets, the BofM, and even read some stuff with her (including Joseph Smith history/The First Vision). So ya, a few weeks ago Sister Sunderland invited Sherry and her husband to have the lessons with us in the Sunderland's apartment; and she accepted. The Sunderland’s went down to Utah for Christmas. They just got back this week and we were looking forward to beginning the lessons.
Well that's what's going on here. Oh ya, so we got transfer calls today and it looks like Elder Reed and I will be together for another six weeks. We kind of knew that both of us are going to stay. Just kind of a feeling we had.
Well I love you mom. Talk to you later!
-- Elder Ballif
Well I talked to you four days ago. And I loved it! Well, let me give you an update on the area. We just had Rob get baptized, it was great. Definitely the largest baptism I've ever been a part of, nearly 200 people. We have a running joke with the Balderas family; kind of that Rob was a “High-Profile baptism” :->. But ya, I love that family so much. I know I will keep in touch with them for the rest of my life; the same with the Zucati family in Monroe. They came to see me last week. I've it was nice to see them. So the new stuff going on! Bishop Brown has challenged a family to be baptized in February. We are excited. They are a really nice family their last name is Anglin. The dad's name is Marc or Mark? The mom's name is Cori and they have two sons Daniel and Gabriel. Daniel wrestles. It's fun talking to them about some of his tournaments and stuff. I think Daniel is 12 and Gabriel is eight or nine. We are excited to get to know them a little better.
Ya, other than the Anglin's, we will begin teaching the Tysons this January. Okay, so the Sunderland's live with our WML and are members. Their friends are Sherry and Terry Tyson. Sister Sunderland has talked with Sherry tons about the Gospel. She has given her pamphlets, the BofM, and even read some stuff with her (including Joseph Smith history/The First Vision). So ya, a few weeks ago Sister Sunderland invited Sherry and her husband to have the lessons with us in the Sunderland's apartment; and she accepted. The Sunderland’s went down to Utah for Christmas. They just got back this week and we were looking forward to beginning the lessons.
Well that's what's going on here. Oh ya, so we got transfer calls today and it looks like Elder Reed and I will be together for another six weeks. We kind of knew that both of us are going to stay. Just kind of a feeling we had.
Well I love you mom. Talk to you later!
-- Elder Ballif
December 29, 2009
Dad,
Hey, so I got to talk to you last week, which was awesome. Can I get Ken and April Straub's address? There is something I want to send Brother Straub. It's kind of a promise I made to him.
Well Elder Reed and I will be spending the next six weeks together we got transfer calls last Monday, December 28 and we are both staying. So ya! Rob just got baptized a couple of weeks ago. And we will be teaching two families soon. So we are looking forward to the next six weeks. At the end of this transfer I will have been here in Arlington for 4 1/2 months. I am pretty sure I will be transferred and then, but for now, Elder Reed and I are going to try our hardest to find, teach, and baptize people here in Arlington.
Well dad, sounds like you are rock’n it at WML. Keep going. I miss you and love you!
-- Elder Ballif
Hey, so I got to talk to you last week, which was awesome. Can I get Ken and April Straub's address? There is something I want to send Brother Straub. It's kind of a promise I made to him.
Well Elder Reed and I will be spending the next six weeks together we got transfer calls last Monday, December 28 and we are both staying. So ya! Rob just got baptized a couple of weeks ago. And we will be teaching two families soon. So we are looking forward to the next six weeks. At the end of this transfer I will have been here in Arlington for 4 1/2 months. I am pretty sure I will be transferred and then, but for now, Elder Reed and I are going to try our hardest to find, teach, and baptize people here in Arlington.
Well dad, sounds like you are rock’n it at WML. Keep going. I miss you and love you!
-- Elder Ballif
December 7, 2009
Mom!
Hey sorry I haven't written for two weeks. I've been busy and you didn't really answer any of the last letters questions, so I was just waiting for another letter to come just in case.
Mom, I didn't say tape player. I said tape. I all ready told you guys I had a tape recorder. Then you guys sent me one so now I have two tape recorders. But anyways, I said never mind about the tape cause I will be talking to you guys in a couple weeks anyways.
And I asked you guys to get some addresses for me: The Conways, Bishop Layton’s and I might have asked for some more but I can’t remember. And who do you think I should definitely send a Christmas card to? I have a lot of them written out already. I just need big enough envelopes to put them in. And the only Staples is out of my area so I have to wait until P-Day. Oh, and should I just buy stamps out here? I got a post office just down the street.
Oh speaking of mail, the mission office told us if you are mailing packages through USPS you have to do the P.O. Box, but if you are mailing through UPS or FedEx you have to send it to the actual address on 16124 35th Ave. SE. If you have ever had stuff sent back to you that's why. Just FYI.
Well mom, things are going good here. We are beginning to find people to teach. So we are pretty excited. I want you to know I love you and dad and appreciate everything you do. I love you and hope you all have a very Merry Christmas!
Love your missionary,
-- Elder Ivan Ballif
Hey sorry I haven't written for two weeks. I've been busy and you didn't really answer any of the last letters questions, so I was just waiting for another letter to come just in case.
Mom, I didn't say tape player. I said tape. I all ready told you guys I had a tape recorder. Then you guys sent me one so now I have two tape recorders. But anyways, I said never mind about the tape cause I will be talking to you guys in a couple weeks anyways.
And I asked you guys to get some addresses for me: The Conways, Bishop Layton’s and I might have asked for some more but I can’t remember. And who do you think I should definitely send a Christmas card to? I have a lot of them written out already. I just need big enough envelopes to put them in. And the only Staples is out of my area so I have to wait until P-Day. Oh, and should I just buy stamps out here? I got a post office just down the street.
Oh speaking of mail, the mission office told us if you are mailing packages through USPS you have to do the P.O. Box, but if you are mailing through UPS or FedEx you have to send it to the actual address on 16124 35th Ave. SE. If you have ever had stuff sent back to you that's why. Just FYI.
Well mom, things are going good here. We are beginning to find people to teach. So we are pretty excited. I want you to know I love you and dad and appreciate everything you do. I love you and hope you all have a very Merry Christmas!
Love your missionary,
-- Elder Ivan Ballif
November 14, 2009
Ken and Gladys Straub,
A little bird told me you were meeting with the missionaries. I was excited to hear that. I know that message the missionaries are sharing with you is an important message. It has brought so much joy to me in my life that I can't fully express in words. But I've learned a lot of things while being on my mission and I thought I knew it all before. But as we progress in life I see now that God grants us the ability to learn more and experience more as well. I know that as we come closer to him by those steps of faith such as baptism, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and going to the temple to receive those blessings that are in store for us. Our Heavenly Father and Savior Jesus Christ will help us learn more by the promptings of the Holy Ghost.
I testify that Christ lives. He is the perfect example that we must follow to return to live with our Heavenly Father. Your Heavenly Father loves you. He wants you to learn more. I am grateful for the experiences he gives us so we can learn. Have a wonderful holiday season! I'm working on getting some Christmas cards written. So don't be surprised to get one :-). God be with you till we meet again.
Sincerely,
Elder Ivan Ballif
A little bird told me you were meeting with the missionaries. I was excited to hear that. I know that message the missionaries are sharing with you is an important message. It has brought so much joy to me in my life that I can't fully express in words. But I've learned a lot of things while being on my mission and I thought I knew it all before. But as we progress in life I see now that God grants us the ability to learn more and experience more as well. I know that as we come closer to him by those steps of faith such as baptism, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and going to the temple to receive those blessings that are in store for us. Our Heavenly Father and Savior Jesus Christ will help us learn more by the promptings of the Holy Ghost.
I testify that Christ lives. He is the perfect example that we must follow to return to live with our Heavenly Father. Your Heavenly Father loves you. He wants you to learn more. I am grateful for the experiences he gives us so we can learn. Have a wonderful holiday season! I'm working on getting some Christmas cards written. So don't be surprised to get one :-). God be with you till we meet again.
Sincerely,
Elder Ivan Ballif
November 10, 2009
Hey mom,
I tried to write Ken and Gladys but I didn't know what to say. I found it difficult writing my testimony to people investigating. I guess I'm more use to personally bearing it. I didn't know. 2 Nephi 31:4-7, is very good; talks about Christ being baptized by authority and why it's important to follow that example.
How are the lessons going with them anyway? I hope so that the Gospel will bless their lives as it has mine.
The family we are teaching is coming along. We just got some good fellow shippers in there. So ya, we are having some trouble finding though. We'll just keep truck’n.
Did you get a text from a Washington number? Our bishop here sent you a picture of me and my companion; it was from the Ward trunk or treat activity. We had fun!
So mom, who are the extended family members that live here in Washington and where do they live? Can you get me the info? I didn't know them but you never know I might serve in their area. I heard grandma say that they live in Lynnwood. That is in my mission.
Love you!
-- Elder Ballif
I tried to write Ken and Gladys but I didn't know what to say. I found it difficult writing my testimony to people investigating. I guess I'm more use to personally bearing it. I didn't know. 2 Nephi 31:4-7, is very good; talks about Christ being baptized by authority and why it's important to follow that example.
How are the lessons going with them anyway? I hope so that the Gospel will bless their lives as it has mine.
The family we are teaching is coming along. We just got some good fellow shippers in there. So ya, we are having some trouble finding though. We'll just keep truck’n.
Did you get a text from a Washington number? Our bishop here sent you a picture of me and my companion; it was from the Ward trunk or treat activity. We had fun!
So mom, who are the extended family members that live here in Washington and where do they live? Can you get me the info? I didn't know them but you never know I might serve in their area. I heard grandma say that they live in Lynnwood. That is in my mission.
Love you!
-- Elder Ballif
September 22, 2009
Dear Grandma and Grandpa,
Thank you so much for the package. I appreciate it so much. It was so surprising. I moved in with some members so I got a call form Elder Shaun Merril. He had my package. They live down the street from my old aprartment so they grabbed it for me. I understand Elder Merril is in your ward back home in Bountiful. That is funny.
Well my first week of being 20 was a good one. We found a new investigator who liked having us over. So yup, things are great here. Just trying to find more people to teach.
And thank you for the missionary experience. That was a very cool one. I really enjoyed reading it. Well I love you both so much. And have you in my prayers. Love you!
Your Grandson,
Elder Ivan Ballif
Thank you so much for the package. I appreciate it so much. It was so surprising. I moved in with some members so I got a call form Elder Shaun Merril. He had my package. They live down the street from my old aprartment so they grabbed it for me. I understand Elder Merril is in your ward back home in Bountiful. That is funny.
Well my first week of being 20 was a good one. We found a new investigator who liked having us over. So yup, things are great here. Just trying to find more people to teach.
And thank you for the missionary experience. That was a very cool one. I really enjoyed reading it. Well I love you both so much. And have you in my prayers. Love you!
Your Grandson,
Elder Ivan Ballif
September 14, 2009
Hey mom,
Sorry I had to send those letters and the tape, so I used those pants as box filler. It was a flat rate package so it would have cost me $5 or $6 regardless. So I figured, “what the hay”.
Well, do you know John’s field address? I want to have a letter waiting for him. Tell Gio to write me. He stopped once he got home.
So ya, I'm all better now. I had that cold for two months almost.
And ya, they all say they should write but they don’t, haha!
Mom read Alma 26:2-4. You’ll like it. It goes right along with your Relief Society Experiment. :-)
So, Gpa Ballif has prostate cancer? I'll be sure to remember him in my prayers.
Well today is my second day being 20 :-). So let me tell you about my weekend. Okay, so we went tracking Saturday morning down a street we hadn't hit yet. And we came upon these two girls that were having a yard sale. And as we walked up to the porch one of them says, “Are you going to buy something?” And my companion introduces who we are and why were there. And she said the same thing again. I then said, “I'll tell you what, if I buy something, will you let us teach you something?” And she said, “Deal”. So I looked around for something I could actually want to keep. And I went over to the blanket covered with books. And right in the front there was a series pack of “The Chronicles of Narnia” book series. So I had to have a classic series like that, haha! :-) She said that’s two dollars. So I forked over two ones. And we taught them the Restoration. We have a return appointment with one of the girls today. It was a way cool experience.
Then on Sunday we had a Regional Stake Conference, broadcast. It was for the Stakes of Washington and Alaska. We got to hear from two of the 70’s, along with Elder Nelson and President Monson. It was cool. Then we had Cottage Meeting at the Mission Home. Which is were a few recent converts speak on their conversion and we bring Investigators and recent converts. It was a real good meeting. Afterwards this family that I have gotten really close too threw me a b-day party. Like balloons, streamers and ice cream cake. And they even got me presents when I told them not to. Haha! :-> I was very appreciative for everything they did. It was really cool. But ya, that was my weekend. :-)
Love you mom.
-- Elder Ballif
Sorry I had to send those letters and the tape, so I used those pants as box filler. It was a flat rate package so it would have cost me $5 or $6 regardless. So I figured, “what the hay”.
Well, do you know John’s field address? I want to have a letter waiting for him. Tell Gio to write me. He stopped once he got home.
So ya, I'm all better now. I had that cold for two months almost.
And ya, they all say they should write but they don’t, haha!
Mom read Alma 26:2-4. You’ll like it. It goes right along with your Relief Society Experiment. :-)
So, Gpa Ballif has prostate cancer? I'll be sure to remember him in my prayers.
Well today is my second day being 20 :-). So let me tell you about my weekend. Okay, so we went tracking Saturday morning down a street we hadn't hit yet. And we came upon these two girls that were having a yard sale. And as we walked up to the porch one of them says, “Are you going to buy something?” And my companion introduces who we are and why were there. And she said the same thing again. I then said, “I'll tell you what, if I buy something, will you let us teach you something?” And she said, “Deal”. So I looked around for something I could actually want to keep. And I went over to the blanket covered with books. And right in the front there was a series pack of “The Chronicles of Narnia” book series. So I had to have a classic series like that, haha! :-) She said that’s two dollars. So I forked over two ones. And we taught them the Restoration. We have a return appointment with one of the girls today. It was a way cool experience.
Then on Sunday we had a Regional Stake Conference, broadcast. It was for the Stakes of Washington and Alaska. We got to hear from two of the 70’s, along with Elder Nelson and President Monson. It was cool. Then we had Cottage Meeting at the Mission Home. Which is were a few recent converts speak on their conversion and we bring Investigators and recent converts. It was a real good meeting. Afterwards this family that I have gotten really close too threw me a b-day party. Like balloons, streamers and ice cream cake. And they even got me presents when I told them not to. Haha! :-> I was very appreciative for everything they did. It was really cool. But ya, that was my weekend. :-)
Love you mom.
-- Elder Ballif
September 9, 2009
Mom,
Can you believe as of this Sunday all your kids will be out of their “teens”? Isn't that crazy! Geeze your old! Haha! :-) And how the time flies. :-) Well, I love you mom. And thank you so much for my package. Oh and wait, I almost forgot to tell you about an experience I had 2-Pdays ago. So this less active sister called us up asking us to meet her to give her a blessing. So we met at the church. My companion anointed her and I sealed the anointing and offered a blessing. Now, I have a hard time offering blessings because I get nervous. But I just kept talking and didn't know what I was saying. But I just kept feeling I needed to tell her that her Heavenly Father is so proud of her for taking the steps to have the Gospel bless her life again. Before the blessing she expressed to us that because she stopped living the Gospel and attending Sacrament that her life was falling down around her. After the blessing she talked us. Ask for us to start teaching her children that know nothing about the Gospel and wants them to be baptized. And she thanked us again. It was a very cool spiritual experience that I was able to have; one that I will remember for a long time. We are going to begin teaching them this week.
Well I love you!
-- Elder Ballif
P.S. If Elizabeth is still there tell her I am sorry that I didn't write back. I didn't know if she was back home or she was still there. But I wrote her family. Love you all!!!
Can you believe as of this Sunday all your kids will be out of their “teens”? Isn't that crazy! Geeze your old! Haha! :-) And how the time flies. :-) Well, I love you mom. And thank you so much for my package. Oh and wait, I almost forgot to tell you about an experience I had 2-Pdays ago. So this less active sister called us up asking us to meet her to give her a blessing. So we met at the church. My companion anointed her and I sealed the anointing and offered a blessing. Now, I have a hard time offering blessings because I get nervous. But I just kept talking and didn't know what I was saying. But I just kept feeling I needed to tell her that her Heavenly Father is so proud of her for taking the steps to have the Gospel bless her life again. Before the blessing she expressed to us that because she stopped living the Gospel and attending Sacrament that her life was falling down around her. After the blessing she talked us. Ask for us to start teaching her children that know nothing about the Gospel and wants them to be baptized. And she thanked us again. It was a very cool spiritual experience that I was able to have; one that I will remember for a long time. We are going to begin teaching them this week.
Well I love you!
-- Elder Ballif
P.S. If Elizabeth is still there tell her I am sorry that I didn't write back. I didn't know if she was back home or she was still there. But I wrote her family. Love you all!!!
August 14, 2009
Dad!
It is so nice to hear from you! I missed your letters. Thanks for the stamps as well. I should be good for a few more months, hopefully. :) I guess it depends on how many people write me. For the first three months I was getting about fifteen letters a week. It was like 2-3 letters a day. I loved it! :) But to keep up I wrote letters on week days. Now I get nine letters a week if I'm lucky, but I only write letters on Sunday night (p-day eve) and on P-day. I know this has helped keep me focused. No matter how many letters I get, I'm not going to write and send letters in the weeks unless it's an emergency.
Well, with regards to the package you sent, I got it, but not on July 17th. It got here on August 4th, and it was awesome! :) The rice crispy treats were great! I loved them. They were gone that same day. And I'm currently working on sending that tape back with some added commentary on it.
So, with regards to my last letter-that might have scared you a bit. I can't even remember all that I wrote, but let me explain. When I wrote that I was feeling inadequate, then I started praying more, and now it's all good. Funny how that works. Sometimes we only receive help when we ask for it. Soon after that letter I had an interview with my mission president. I talked to him about how I felt that I had failed my first time as a senior companion. We discussed what I needed to do better to turn things around. Things have improved. I was just sad because I wasn't being better than I very well could have been. I have been praying and studying more, which has helped tons!
So, Kayleigh and Jen are coming back, but what about Sky? Are they moving back or just coming back for a little visit?
So, Elliott is back? It is insane how fast time flies. It is crazy to think that only six months ago I was home playing with Kayleigh and Soren.
So, Soren's right eye was the black one, right? I can still kind of see it in that picture you sent. Sofie looks grumpy, haha. So, Becca is having a kid? What the heck? I'm sending her a letter. I thougt we agreed no one was going to have a kid while I'm gone. I'd be fine if she got pregnant in like eight months. Then I would fine with it. I'm totally just kidding. That's great! Well Dad, thanks for the letter and words of encouragment. I love you.
Thanks. --Elder Ballif
It is so nice to hear from you! I missed your letters. Thanks for the stamps as well. I should be good for a few more months, hopefully. :) I guess it depends on how many people write me. For the first three months I was getting about fifteen letters a week. It was like 2-3 letters a day. I loved it! :) But to keep up I wrote letters on week days. Now I get nine letters a week if I'm lucky, but I only write letters on Sunday night (p-day eve) and on P-day. I know this has helped keep me focused. No matter how many letters I get, I'm not going to write and send letters in the weeks unless it's an emergency.
Well, with regards to the package you sent, I got it, but not on July 17th. It got here on August 4th, and it was awesome! :) The rice crispy treats were great! I loved them. They were gone that same day. And I'm currently working on sending that tape back with some added commentary on it.
So, with regards to my last letter-that might have scared you a bit. I can't even remember all that I wrote, but let me explain. When I wrote that I was feeling inadequate, then I started praying more, and now it's all good. Funny how that works. Sometimes we only receive help when we ask for it. Soon after that letter I had an interview with my mission president. I talked to him about how I felt that I had failed my first time as a senior companion. We discussed what I needed to do better to turn things around. Things have improved. I was just sad because I wasn't being better than I very well could have been. I have been praying and studying more, which has helped tons!
So, Kayleigh and Jen are coming back, but what about Sky? Are they moving back or just coming back for a little visit?
So, Elliott is back? It is insane how fast time flies. It is crazy to think that only six months ago I was home playing with Kayleigh and Soren.
So, Soren's right eye was the black one, right? I can still kind of see it in that picture you sent. Sofie looks grumpy, haha. So, Becca is having a kid? What the heck? I'm sending her a letter. I thougt we agreed no one was going to have a kid while I'm gone. I'd be fine if she got pregnant in like eight months. Then I would fine with it. I'm totally just kidding. That's great! Well Dad, thanks for the letter and words of encouragment. I love you.
Thanks. --Elder Ballif
August 3, 2009
Dear Mother,
So I think you send a letter every other day. I’m kidding of course; but whenever I send one out, I get one the next day. :-) I'm just joking.
So, ya facebook? Well my companion is from Tonga and it takes him weeks to receive and send mail. So he has permission to e-mail. And I might have oh say, checked my facebook. And thought I was funny by putting a post saying “Baptize, Baptize, Baptize!” Sorry, it won't happen again.
So ya, Lauren Gale. She wrote me a letter when I was in Mt Vernon and I wrote her back.
And I heard about Brother Lyman. That is too bad. He was a good man. My prayers are with their family. Do you know how Joe is doing?
And yes again I got my watch, thank you. :-) And your drawing is awesome.
Hey, so last Wednesday it reached a record high of 108° or 111°, something like that. And our power went out. :-( So the fan we had didn't work. So when we got back to our apartment that night it was well over 100° inside. :-( I thought it was going to be cool all year round, but I guess not haha.
Well, other than that, things are just easy peasy lemon squeezy. Haha, didn't make that one up, but still pretty funny. Love you!
Sincerely your missionary,
- Elder Ballif
So I think you send a letter every other day. I’m kidding of course; but whenever I send one out, I get one the next day. :-) I'm just joking.
So, ya facebook? Well my companion is from Tonga and it takes him weeks to receive and send mail. So he has permission to e-mail. And I might have oh say, checked my facebook. And thought I was funny by putting a post saying “Baptize, Baptize, Baptize!” Sorry, it won't happen again.
So ya, Lauren Gale. She wrote me a letter when I was in Mt Vernon and I wrote her back.
And I heard about Brother Lyman. That is too bad. He was a good man. My prayers are with their family. Do you know how Joe is doing?
And yes again I got my watch, thank you. :-) And your drawing is awesome.
Hey, so last Wednesday it reached a record high of 108° or 111°, something like that. And our power went out. :-( So the fan we had didn't work. So when we got back to our apartment that night it was well over 100° inside. :-( I thought it was going to be cool all year round, but I guess not haha.
Well, other than that, things are just easy peasy lemon squeezy. Haha, didn't make that one up, but still pretty funny. Love you!
Sincerely your missionary,
- Elder Ballif
July 27, 2009
Mom,
Well our zone leaders call Elder Faiva and I. the most intimidating companionship in the mission. It's funny because we probably are, but we don't use that advantage very often. I don't like confrontation too much as a missionary. But anyways, so you said "Did you enjoy the rice crispy squares?", I haven't received any when and where did you send them?
So how was your birthday? Sorry I did not send any thing we live on a kind of tight budget. I feel like it crappy son.
So what's new in Arizona? It is really warm here. On Wednesday it is supposed to be getting up to 98° with like 90% humidity. That's almost as bad as the weather were Sky is. It was funny I called TELL ME. It's like a free 411 hotline or whatever. At 8:30 PM it was like 110° in Gilbert. It was like what!!! But I would almost take that over the humidity here. It just kills me.
So how is every one doing? I heard there is a bunch of people getting married, that’s crazy. Nichelle filled me on a bunch of them. That is cool. Guess what, Spencer, Scott, Elliott are going home soon. I couldn’t believe it till I got a letter from Spencer saying this is his last transfer.
Oh mom, today we went to the barn where they shot the movie, The Ring. We got to go in and stuff it was really cool and creepy. I got some pics I'll try to send them in my next letter. Oh and could you do me a favor when you send that tape can you send some stuff as well. Like my b-ball shoes. I sprained my ankle pretty bad a while back. I want some shoes with some support. And that green hoodzip I got a little while ago; the silky feeling one. They can be my early Christmas present since I already got an early birthday present (GPS). That's all I want is some of my stuff sent. Well I love you!
Your missionary!
- Elder Ballif
Well our zone leaders call Elder Faiva and I. the most intimidating companionship in the mission. It's funny because we probably are, but we don't use that advantage very often. I don't like confrontation too much as a missionary. But anyways, so you said "Did you enjoy the rice crispy squares?", I haven't received any when and where did you send them?
So how was your birthday? Sorry I did not send any thing we live on a kind of tight budget. I feel like it crappy son.
So what's new in Arizona? It is really warm here. On Wednesday it is supposed to be getting up to 98° with like 90% humidity. That's almost as bad as the weather were Sky is. It was funny I called TELL ME. It's like a free 411 hotline or whatever. At 8:30 PM it was like 110° in Gilbert. It was like what!!! But I would almost take that over the humidity here. It just kills me.
So how is every one doing? I heard there is a bunch of people getting married, that’s crazy. Nichelle filled me on a bunch of them. That is cool. Guess what, Spencer, Scott, Elliott are going home soon. I couldn’t believe it till I got a letter from Spencer saying this is his last transfer.
Oh mom, today we went to the barn where they shot the movie, The Ring. We got to go in and stuff it was really cool and creepy. I got some pics I'll try to send them in my next letter. Oh and could you do me a favor when you send that tape can you send some stuff as well. Like my b-ball shoes. I sprained my ankle pretty bad a while back. I want some shoes with some support. And that green hoodzip I got a little while ago; the silky feeling one. They can be my early Christmas present since I already got an early birthday present (GPS). That's all I want is some of my stuff sent. Well I love you!
Your missionary!
- Elder Ballif
July 13, 2009
Mom,
Hey lady. What is new? This is awesome about Jon getting his call to Tacoma Washington. So how was your 4th of July? It is crazy here; fireworks everywhere. And I mean everywhere til like 1AM. It was insane. How did you like the pictures that I sent in Dad’s letter?
So things are slow here. But some good things are starting to happen, so that's good. Elder Faiva and I are going to be companions here in Monroe for the next six weeks again. But the work is going to be a little better this transfer than last. So I am excited. The ward is great here. They are getting excited.
Well I love you mom. There is this lady in the ward next to ours that reminds me of you a little bit. Except for she swears a lot more (Ha! Ha! she is a RC). But her mom looks a little like you accept for she is quite older. Like if she looked 30 years younger, you might get you two mixed up (Ha! Ha!).
I am getting fed well don't worry. Maybe a little too well; I am back to 250 again. Can you and dad check my bank account. I think there is something wrong with the machines here. When I check them, they always show more money than I think I should have; and that $75 charge in Bellevue was for garments. We had a temple trip, so I grabbed some garments myself. Some different kinds that I heard are nice. But I'm going to wait to open them until I need them. Unfortunately I forgot to grab my camera for the trip. So there are no temple pictures this time. It looks beautiful from the outside; but the inside is like the Provo Temple. So I felt a little claustrophobic. Well love you!
- Elder Ballif
Hey lady. What is new? This is awesome about Jon getting his call to Tacoma Washington. So how was your 4th of July? It is crazy here; fireworks everywhere. And I mean everywhere til like 1AM. It was insane. How did you like the pictures that I sent in Dad’s letter?
So things are slow here. But some good things are starting to happen, so that's good. Elder Faiva and I are going to be companions here in Monroe for the next six weeks again. But the work is going to be a little better this transfer than last. So I am excited. The ward is great here. They are getting excited.
Well I love you mom. There is this lady in the ward next to ours that reminds me of you a little bit. Except for she swears a lot more (Ha! Ha! she is a RC). But her mom looks a little like you accept for she is quite older. Like if she looked 30 years younger, you might get you two mixed up (Ha! Ha!).
I am getting fed well don't worry. Maybe a little too well; I am back to 250 again. Can you and dad check my bank account. I think there is something wrong with the machines here. When I check them, they always show more money than I think I should have; and that $75 charge in Bellevue was for garments. We had a temple trip, so I grabbed some garments myself. Some different kinds that I heard are nice. But I'm going to wait to open them until I need them. Unfortunately I forgot to grab my camera for the trip. So there are no temple pictures this time. It looks beautiful from the outside; but the inside is like the Provo Temple. So I felt a little claustrophobic. Well love you!
- Elder Ballif
July 8, 2009
Papa,
Hey dad. Sorry it's been so long since I have wrote you. But I'm still better than the other missionaries here. Some of them haven't written their families in months. So consider yourself lucky. I'm just joking.
That is great things are going so well back home. I enjoy hearing about all your success with your new calling.
I love you dad. Keep up the good work. The Lord deserves our best, so we need to give it to him.
PS. Here are some photos of my last area’s success. :-)
- Elder Ballif
Hey dad. Sorry it's been so long since I have wrote you. But I'm still better than the other missionaries here. Some of them haven't written their families in months. So consider yourself lucky. I'm just joking.
That is great things are going so well back home. I enjoy hearing about all your success with your new calling.
I love you dad. Keep up the good work. The Lord deserves our best, so we need to give it to him.
PS. Here are some photos of my last area’s success. :-)
- Elder Ballif
My 3rd comp, Elder Faiva... I am fat again!!!
Word Up!
My first Baptism, Austin (I baptized) and his sister Hope.
These children got baptized a couple of weeks after I left Mt Veron, but my Mission President wouldn't let me go back for it :-(
Austin & Hope's mom and her boyfriend and his son Anthony
They are twins and their names are Shannon & Steven Nelson
June 19, 2009
Papa!
Sorry, it’s so late but Happy Father’s Day Papa!
So how did the lesson with Lucia go? Is she on date or does she have any hold ups? So how did you guys meet Lucia? I want to hear about her story. Mom tried to explain it. But, you know how her letters are. She jumps from idea to idea so fast that you forget what’s going on. Haha
Sounds like you are a sick (good) WML, Dad. You really know the purpose of your calling. That’s great!
So, things are good here. I need to pray for our investigators to keep their commitments. So, it’s hard to help them progress if they won’t take the initiative. It is hard to followup with them as we need to, we are just a little short on miles.
But yeah, that’s what is going on here in Monroe. Well Dad, I love you. Keep it up. You are the greatest at everything Dad.
-Elder Ballif
Sorry, it’s so late but Happy Father’s Day Papa!
So how did the lesson with Lucia go? Is she on date or does she have any hold ups? So how did you guys meet Lucia? I want to hear about her story. Mom tried to explain it. But, you know how her letters are. She jumps from idea to idea so fast that you forget what’s going on. Haha
Sounds like you are a sick (good) WML, Dad. You really know the purpose of your calling. That’s great!
So, things are good here. I need to pray for our investigators to keep their commitments. So, it’s hard to help them progress if they won’t take the initiative. It is hard to followup with them as we need to, we are just a little short on miles.
But yeah, that’s what is going on here in Monroe. Well Dad, I love you. Keep it up. You are the greatest at everything Dad.
-Elder Ballif
June 11 2009
Mom,
Ya, so all 4 of the kids I was teaching last transfer were baptized. It's awesome.
So,ya The Conways...I saw that in the Ensign. I was freaking, like yo, Ellington, I know these people,ha ha. Gannon wrote me and I told him too, about the pic. Ha ha.
I wrote Mike, too. Oh by the way, can you send me some more stamps. I'm not out yet, but I don't want to run out.
So mom, how did you meet Licia? This is the first I've heard about her. Tell her thank you for the heart, I appreciate it. So how does she feel about what the missionaries teach her?
So the Elder King on the tape is home now. Last transfer was his last.
So mom, I love you. Next letter I'll tell you how the work is going here. I'm still feeling the area out.
{heart} Elder Ballif
Ya, so all 4 of the kids I was teaching last transfer were baptized. It's awesome.
So,ya The Conways...I saw that in the Ensign. I was freaking, like yo, Ellington, I know these people,ha ha. Gannon wrote me and I told him too, about the pic. Ha ha.
I wrote Mike, too. Oh by the way, can you send me some more stamps. I'm not out yet, but I don't want to run out.
So mom, how did you meet Licia? This is the first I've heard about her. Tell her thank you for the heart, I appreciate it. So how does she feel about what the missionaries teach her?
So the Elder King on the tape is home now. Last transfer was his last.
So mom, I love you. Next letter I'll tell you how the work is going here. I'm still feeling the area out.
{heart} Elder Ballif
June 5, 2009
Hey mom,
Sorry it took so long to write back. things are good! Austin and Hope were baptized this last wednesday. The service went awsome. I got to baptize Austin. It felt great.
So I am now in Monroe. My companion is Elder Faiva. He is from Tonga. He had to learn English in the MTC, too. So thats 2 of my comps so far that have spoken a differant language. But, he speaks much better english than Elder Tani. I have been made the Senior companion. I feel in over my head a lil' bit. But its all good it had to happen somtime.
So we had an appointment tonight with a part member family. We were teaching the youngest daughter who is 10. We are excited about this opportunity to teach.
I LOVE yOU. and tell dad I'm sending him a letter tomorrow. So love ya mom,
Love Elder Ballif
P.S. Tell Dad I got his letter and the GPS. Thanks!!!!!
----------------------------------------------------
Dad,
Hey dad. I did get your package. And just on time to. I got it then I went off to transfers. So I can tell you that I have been using it. Monroe is a little different but I think I’ll begin to find my way around.So my new companion is from Tonga. He had to learn English in the MTC. He is nice. He has been out for 19 months. President made me a Sr. companion. And I feel I am in over my head; Elder Faiva is understanding though.We are both going to be the senior. So we had a TA last night. Check out mom’s letter. There is great potential here in Monroe. And we will find it. And “Do Work!”Dad thank you so much for the GPS. That was my B-day present. I seriously don’t want anything. Maybe besides stamps. Thanks again Dad.I will write that page to Grandma Ballif this week. Love ya Dad
- Elder Ballif
----------------------------------------------------
Grandma,
Here is my testimony for your book.
I have a testimony of my Savior, who was Jesus Christ. I know he came as an example for the rest of us. That he suffered and died for us; that because of what he went through we will never have to go through such endless torment. That we can live again as he lives now.
I know that Jesus leads his church on this earth through a living prophet.
The prophet has the proper authority and keys necessary for salvation. And it is essential to use those keys to open those doors.
I know that authority was restored to Joseph Smith; that never again, will we live in darkness. I know…I know this to be true. That the true principles of the Gospel of Jesus Christ are only taught completely and with the proper authority in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Jesus is the Christ; that’s my personal simple testimony. That Jesus Christ lived and died for me. That he lives again so I can live again. That he leads his Church here on this earth through a living prophet. I bear this witness in the name of my Savior and Redeemer, truly Jesus Christ.
- Elder Ballif
Sorry it took so long to write back. things are good! Austin and Hope were baptized this last wednesday. The service went awsome. I got to baptize Austin. It felt great.
So I am now in Monroe. My companion is Elder Faiva. He is from Tonga. He had to learn English in the MTC, too. So thats 2 of my comps so far that have spoken a differant language. But, he speaks much better english than Elder Tani. I have been made the Senior companion. I feel in over my head a lil' bit. But its all good it had to happen somtime.
So we had an appointment tonight with a part member family. We were teaching the youngest daughter who is 10. We are excited about this opportunity to teach.
I LOVE yOU. and tell dad I'm sending him a letter tomorrow. So love ya mom,
Love Elder Ballif
P.S. Tell Dad I got his letter and the GPS. Thanks!!!!!
----------------------------------------------------
Dad,
Hey dad. I did get your package. And just on time to. I got it then I went off to transfers. So I can tell you that I have been using it. Monroe is a little different but I think I’ll begin to find my way around.So my new companion is from Tonga. He had to learn English in the MTC. He is nice. He has been out for 19 months. President made me a Sr. companion. And I feel I am in over my head; Elder Faiva is understanding though.We are both going to be the senior. So we had a TA last night. Check out mom’s letter. There is great potential here in Monroe. And we will find it. And “Do Work!”Dad thank you so much for the GPS. That was my B-day present. I seriously don’t want anything. Maybe besides stamps. Thanks again Dad.I will write that page to Grandma Ballif this week. Love ya Dad
- Elder Ballif
----------------------------------------------------
Grandma,
Here is my testimony for your book.
I have a testimony of my Savior, who was Jesus Christ. I know he came as an example for the rest of us. That he suffered and died for us; that because of what he went through we will never have to go through such endless torment. That we can live again as he lives now.
I know that Jesus leads his church on this earth through a living prophet.
The prophet has the proper authority and keys necessary for salvation. And it is essential to use those keys to open those doors.
I know that authority was restored to Joseph Smith; that never again, will we live in darkness. I know…I know this to be true. That the true principles of the Gospel of Jesus Christ are only taught completely and with the proper authority in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Jesus is the Christ; that’s my personal simple testimony. That Jesus Christ lived and died for me. That he lives again so I can live again. That he leads his Church here on this earth through a living prophet. I bear this witness in the name of my Savior and Redeemer, truly Jesus Christ.
- Elder Ballif
May 19, 2009
------------------ Mt Vernon ------------------
Mt. Baker (An active Valcano)
Elder Ellingson and I enjoying the view
of Mt Erie in Anacortes, WA
Elder Elingson and me at Mt. Erie
Just Bending the rules ;-)
Daffadil field with my eyes closed...
Tulip Festival...
Now that is some kind of Meditation
Beautiful Red Tulips here in Tulip Country!
Trying to reach everyone in Mt Vernon!
May 12, 2009
Mom!
Well talking to you all on Sunday was awesome. I loved it. But I figured I still should return you last 2 letters.
But first ha ha something just hit me…Mike should be going through the temple today. That’s awesome. How was the session? I wish I could be there.
So I got the driving forms. Thanks by the way. I really do appreciate it.
Thanks for the GPS. But you might wonna check online. One of the unwritten missionary rules or guidelines are never pay full price. So it might be a good Idea. But if I know Dad; he probably did that. But I was just reminding.
So I’m pretty good on stamps. I don’t write as much as I did 6 weeks ago. And I have about 80 stamps left. So like in July or something like that I might need some more. But I’ll let you know. But for now I’m good. I heard stamps went up to 44 cents actually, that is crazy. I know it’s only 2 cents, but that stuff adds up. Actually now that I think about it; you might as well buy more before they go up again to 46 cents or 50 cents :-(. Send as many as you want. Not too much though; don’t want you wasting money on me you could have used for bills. Now I’m rambling haha. But seriously, Mom, there really isn’t a thing I could do to fully thank you and Dad for all that you have done for me. So I’m going to try to serve my hardest as a missionary.
So Sky complains?...I write back every letter I receive. Including his; maybe he just needs to write more :-). Mom I love you. I am so thankful to have you as my nurturing best friend :-).
Love,
Elder Ballif
----------------------------------------------------
Papa! :-)
Dad what’s up! So ya, it was great talking to you on the phone. Sorry I’ve been spending so much money. I really will get better at it. I’m just getting used to it. I’ve never had to budget like this before. So I’m gonna learn quickly and do better.
So ya, send that GPS the cheapest way you can. I don’t need it badly right now. We know this area pretty well now. But I appreciate this so much.
Dad the mission is a lot harder than I thought it would be. It really is a trial. I have had more prayers and meditation in the last 3 months than I have in my life. It’s been worth it. It’s teaching me what kind of post-mission member I want to be.
Dad I love ya. And I love getting your letters. I must say yours are some of the ones I get the most excited when I receive them. But I love you and pray for your health constantly. See ya!
Love,
Elder Ballif
P.S. Can you get me Elder Conway’s address. I want to send him his happy one year out letter. :-)
Well talking to you all on Sunday was awesome. I loved it. But I figured I still should return you last 2 letters.
But first ha ha something just hit me…Mike should be going through the temple today. That’s awesome. How was the session? I wish I could be there.
So I got the driving forms. Thanks by the way. I really do appreciate it.
Thanks for the GPS. But you might wonna check online. One of the unwritten missionary rules or guidelines are never pay full price. So it might be a good Idea. But if I know Dad; he probably did that. But I was just reminding.
So I’m pretty good on stamps. I don’t write as much as I did 6 weeks ago. And I have about 80 stamps left. So like in July or something like that I might need some more. But I’ll let you know. But for now I’m good. I heard stamps went up to 44 cents actually, that is crazy. I know it’s only 2 cents, but that stuff adds up. Actually now that I think about it; you might as well buy more before they go up again to 46 cents or 50 cents :-(. Send as many as you want. Not too much though; don’t want you wasting money on me you could have used for bills. Now I’m rambling haha. But seriously, Mom, there really isn’t a thing I could do to fully thank you and Dad for all that you have done for me. So I’m going to try to serve my hardest as a missionary.
So Sky complains?...I write back every letter I receive. Including his; maybe he just needs to write more :-). Mom I love you. I am so thankful to have you as my nurturing best friend :-).
Love,
Elder Ballif
----------------------------------------------------
Papa! :-)
Dad what’s up! So ya, it was great talking to you on the phone. Sorry I’ve been spending so much money. I really will get better at it. I’m just getting used to it. I’ve never had to budget like this before. So I’m gonna learn quickly and do better.
So ya, send that GPS the cheapest way you can. I don’t need it badly right now. We know this area pretty well now. But I appreciate this so much.
Dad the mission is a lot harder than I thought it would be. It really is a trial. I have had more prayers and meditation in the last 3 months than I have in my life. It’s been worth it. It’s teaching me what kind of post-mission member I want to be.
Dad I love ya. And I love getting your letters. I must say yours are some of the ones I get the most excited when I receive them. But I love you and pray for your health constantly. See ya!
Love,
Elder Ballif
P.S. Can you get me Elder Conway’s address. I want to send him his happy one year out letter. :-)
May 3, 2009
Mom,
Hey mama. We had Stake Conference today, here in Mt. Vernon. It was good. It was a bit long for some of the investigators. This lady, Cristina has an anxiety disorder and when she comes to church she has to bring her prescription service dog. It was fun today though. Her friend Martin, who is a recent convert, sat and talked with her in the foyer. It helped her a lot. Martin is sweet. That’s how we met Cristina, as a referral through him. The Gospel just makes sense to him.
So I will ask my neighbors when I get the chance. But in the meantime would you be able to just send it to the mission office? And I’ll just destroy what comes to me, if I get it. Please, that would be great.
So Elder Cowan’s mom called you? That’s sweet, they are in Mesa. He is way cool. He went to Mt. View High School. He was in the District leaving after mine in my Zone in the MTC. There is an Elder Blaine Pitney that went to Mesquite High School; he went to the same mission as Elder Cowan. He went home from medical reasons. If you have and free time could you try to look him up somehow? Jut to see how he is doing. He might go back out. But apparently they don’t know yet. I heard about it from an Elder Justin Tran. If you find him, just say “Hi, I’m Elder Ballif’s mom.” He’ll probably say something like “No way, that’s sweet!” But if you have anytime I would appreciate it mom. I know you’re busy, but I figured I might as well ask anyway.
So ya, mom the whole quarters thing is just something I did to pas the time. The only one I’m looking for is South Dakota. But, I wanna find it out here. I just started it as something fun to do; oo send it with each letter.
Sky has told me about Texas in his letters. That’s crazy! What are they planning on doing?
Thanks for the picture by the way. It is way cool. Mom, I love you. And I’ll talk to you in a few days :-).
- Elder Ballif
Hey mama. We had Stake Conference today, here in Mt. Vernon. It was good. It was a bit long for some of the investigators. This lady, Cristina has an anxiety disorder and when she comes to church she has to bring her prescription service dog. It was fun today though. Her friend Martin, who is a recent convert, sat and talked with her in the foyer. It helped her a lot. Martin is sweet. That’s how we met Cristina, as a referral through him. The Gospel just makes sense to him.
So I will ask my neighbors when I get the chance. But in the meantime would you be able to just send it to the mission office? And I’ll just destroy what comes to me, if I get it. Please, that would be great.
So Elder Cowan’s mom called you? That’s sweet, they are in Mesa. He is way cool. He went to Mt. View High School. He was in the District leaving after mine in my Zone in the MTC. There is an Elder Blaine Pitney that went to Mesquite High School; he went to the same mission as Elder Cowan. He went home from medical reasons. If you have and free time could you try to look him up somehow? Jut to see how he is doing. He might go back out. But apparently they don’t know yet. I heard about it from an Elder Justin Tran. If you find him, just say “Hi, I’m Elder Ballif’s mom.” He’ll probably say something like “No way, that’s sweet!” But if you have anytime I would appreciate it mom. I know you’re busy, but I figured I might as well ask anyway.
So ya, mom the whole quarters thing is just something I did to pas the time. The only one I’m looking for is South Dakota. But, I wanna find it out here. I just started it as something fun to do; oo send it with each letter.
Sky has told me about Texas in his letters. That’s crazy! What are they planning on doing?
Thanks for the picture by the way. It is way cool. Mom, I love you. And I’ll talk to you in a few days :-).
- Elder Ballif
April 29 2009
Sky,
So you guys are moving to Texas eh? I thought you were going east or something. That's tight though. Is it cool if I come to see you every once in while when I get back, bro? So P90x...how is that? Seen any results? I wanted to do that so bad before I left. But, there is always "when I get back". I lost 12 lbs. from biking last transfer.
So ya, I got a new companion. He is DL and his name is Elder Ellingson. He is pretty cool. He is a bit relaxed. He is supposed to "Greenie break" me. He is a good missionary. We are teaching some people who we hope will progress.
I love ya bro.
Elder Ballif
So you guys are moving to Texas eh? I thought you were going east or something. That's tight though. Is it cool if I come to see you every once in while when I get back, bro? So P90x...how is that? Seen any results? I wanted to do that so bad before I left. But, there is always "when I get back". I lost 12 lbs. from biking last transfer.
So ya, I got a new companion. He is DL and his name is Elder Ellingson. He is pretty cool. He is a bit relaxed. He is supposed to "Greenie break" me. He is a good missionary. We are teaching some people who we hope will progress.
I love ya bro.
Elder Ballif
April 25 2009
Mom,
Well, I have not recieved my driving records at all. So please send it again. I will need it in the next 2 months. Sorry I did not do it all before I left for the feild. It would have made things way easier.
And ya, I don't have any money left over for the next week. And ya, I bought a bike. My card isn't lost or anything. I have had to use it because the food is getting eaten, not just by me, but some take advantage of my kindness. I'll get better next month.
You are right about the sheets. I'm set. Don't worry about a fitted sheet.
My new comp is Elder Ellingson. He is the District Leader. He is way cool. This transfer is going to be great.
And ya, I write in my journal. Not every day but, I'm keepin' up. I'm good on garments. I'll let you know if I need any. Like for a birthday or Christmas present would be cool when they roll around. I really don't need anything now.
While we are talking about lists, could you find my black pocket knife and send it to me with some stuff when you can. And if you are wondering what a good Christmas gift would be...a GPS, Garmin Nuvi preferably. You can find it way cheep if you shop around. FYI It is not really important or anything. It would just be nice. Well, I love you!
Elder Ballif
----------------------------------------------------
Dear Dad,
Hey Papa Bear. What it is yo?! How are things? I think you are missing a page in your last letter. It had 3 but the last page looked like you were listing some stuff but started at number 5 :-). Ha, but I got you words of encouragement none the less.
Oh and I think my cells message code was like 5207 or something like that. If its not that mix those numbers around.
So ya, General Conference! Elder Holland’s talk on the Atonement was insane! I liked President Uchtdorf’s talk as well; his one on Sunday and in Priesthood. Dad that’s awesome you are a Ward Mission Leader.
Dad, can I give some info? Be there for the missionaries. The ward I’m in we have a great Ward Mission Leader. He pushes on everyone to get stuff done right. We have a great Stake and Ward. :-) (No Pride whatsoever ;-)). And the quicker the missionaries get to know the Ward, Stake and members, the quicker they can use them as resources. The missionaries are the member helpers for missionary work. And when the ward is proactive with the missionaries; now, that’s with the work gets done. The members in our ward here in Mt. Vernon are pretty sweet. Well dad, I believe in you. And I know you believe in the Lord. I love you dad! God be with you til we meet again.
- Elder Ballif
Well, I have not recieved my driving records at all. So please send it again. I will need it in the next 2 months. Sorry I did not do it all before I left for the feild. It would have made things way easier.
And ya, I don't have any money left over for the next week. And ya, I bought a bike. My card isn't lost or anything. I have had to use it because the food is getting eaten, not just by me, but some take advantage of my kindness. I'll get better next month.
You are right about the sheets. I'm set. Don't worry about a fitted sheet.
My new comp is Elder Ellingson. He is the District Leader. He is way cool. This transfer is going to be great.
And ya, I write in my journal. Not every day but, I'm keepin' up. I'm good on garments. I'll let you know if I need any. Like for a birthday or Christmas present would be cool when they roll around. I really don't need anything now.
While we are talking about lists, could you find my black pocket knife and send it to me with some stuff when you can. And if you are wondering what a good Christmas gift would be...a GPS, Garmin Nuvi preferably. You can find it way cheep if you shop around. FYI It is not really important or anything. It would just be nice. Well, I love you!
Elder Ballif
----------------------------------------------------
Dear Dad,
Hey Papa Bear. What it is yo?! How are things? I think you are missing a page in your last letter. It had 3 but the last page looked like you were listing some stuff but started at number 5 :-). Ha, but I got you words of encouragement none the less.
Oh and I think my cells message code was like 5207 or something like that. If its not that mix those numbers around.
So ya, General Conference! Elder Holland’s talk on the Atonement was insane! I liked President Uchtdorf’s talk as well; his one on Sunday and in Priesthood. Dad that’s awesome you are a Ward Mission Leader.
Dad, can I give some info? Be there for the missionaries. The ward I’m in we have a great Ward Mission Leader. He pushes on everyone to get stuff done right. We have a great Stake and Ward. :-) (No Pride whatsoever ;-)). And the quicker the missionaries get to know the Ward, Stake and members, the quicker they can use them as resources. The missionaries are the member helpers for missionary work. And when the ward is proactive with the missionaries; now, that’s with the work gets done. The members in our ward here in Mt. Vernon are pretty sweet. Well dad, I believe in you. And I know you believe in the Lord. I love you dad! God be with you til we meet again.
- Elder Ballif
April 19, 2009
Momma,
Okay, I’m just gonna go down the list on your last letter. :-)
Ya, I heard from dad after I sent that letter.
Thats awesome about Mike Wolf. He is the youngest of us all. Mike Millyard as well. How is he doing? he doesn't write me :-(. I've written him 2 or 3 letters. I want to keep in contact. Pat wrote me:-); however, it takes two stamps to write him.
So that is sweet Chis Navarrette got his call. He will do great on a mission.
So yeah, my companion are good. Whatever Kayleigh wants to know, I’ll be much obliged to inform her.
And finally the scripture I want on my plaque is Alma 29:9.
Okay, now that’s all done, I’ll give you a report on the past week. Well we found about 5 new investigators this week. I just hope they go somewhere. We have one lady on date for May 2 or so, but she kind of disappeared on us so we will have to see. She might have to wait a little longer; seems like she is hiding something.
Well transfers are this week. Our transfer call should be coming in a few hours. So you might know if I get transferred or not. If I do, I won’t find out where till Tuesday. But we will see. It’s up to the Lord. Non of us missionaries have the proper keys to receive revelation for transfers. So I’ll find out when the call comes.
So yesterday was my 2 month Day! Don’t worry…I’m not getting trunky. Just think it’s crazy how fast 2 months go out here. Oh, and Kirkland is like 2 hours south of Mt Vernon. FYI :-). Give my love to everyone. Did Sky get my last letter? I sent it to his house in Q.C.
Love,
Elder Ballif
P.S. I haven’t gotten the driving stuff yet. Did you send it in a package or something? What address did you send it to? It doesn’t matter too much I bought a sweet bike. But it would nice to have that info if I needed to drive (Which I will). My mission is 82% car…I Love you.
P.S.S. Will you call Aunt Vicky and Aunt Tracy and tell them thanks for Love :-).
P.S.S.S. I didn’t get transferred…But my trainer did.
Okay, I’m just gonna go down the list on your last letter. :-)
Ya, I heard from dad after I sent that letter.
Thats awesome about Mike Wolf. He is the youngest of us all. Mike Millyard as well. How is he doing? he doesn't write me :-(. I've written him 2 or 3 letters. I want to keep in contact. Pat wrote me:-); however, it takes two stamps to write him.
So that is sweet Chis Navarrette got his call. He will do great on a mission.
So yeah, my companion are good. Whatever Kayleigh wants to know, I’ll be much obliged to inform her.
And finally the scripture I want on my plaque is Alma 29:9.
Okay, now that’s all done, I’ll give you a report on the past week. Well we found about 5 new investigators this week. I just hope they go somewhere. We have one lady on date for May 2 or so, but she kind of disappeared on us so we will have to see. She might have to wait a little longer; seems like she is hiding something.
Well transfers are this week. Our transfer call should be coming in a few hours. So you might know if I get transferred or not. If I do, I won’t find out where till Tuesday. But we will see. It’s up to the Lord. Non of us missionaries have the proper keys to receive revelation for transfers. So I’ll find out when the call comes.
So yesterday was my 2 month Day! Don’t worry…I’m not getting trunky. Just think it’s crazy how fast 2 months go out here. Oh, and Kirkland is like 2 hours south of Mt Vernon. FYI :-). Give my love to everyone. Did Sky get my last letter? I sent it to his house in Q.C.
Love,
Elder Ballif
P.S. I haven’t gotten the driving stuff yet. Did you send it in a package or something? What address did you send it to? It doesn’t matter too much I bought a sweet bike. But it would nice to have that info if I needed to drive (Which I will). My mission is 82% car…I Love you.
P.S.S. Will you call Aunt Vicky and Aunt Tracy and tell them thanks for Love :-).
P.S.S.S. I didn’t get transferred…But my trainer did.
April 14, 2009
Momma :-)
Well ya the Tulip Festival is supposed to be this week. But the Tulips haven’t sprouted yet. But the daffodils are awesome. I got some cool pictures. Dee Engel told us to get some postcards from this photography lady. Dee is the lady that called fro me. Well ya, about that, so you sent it already…like is everything I need already sent?
Okay so I woke up this morning to a phone call. Apparently there is this lady in Mt Vernon General Hospital who needs a blessing. And she goes, “I need mormon missionaries” to the doctors and nurses. So a member that works there talked to her and called us. We are going down there later today. So it’s pretty sweet though.
Oh and mom, I’ve recently started a quarter collection, one for every state. I’m going to start sending you these quarters so you can start organizing them :-) .
Love
Elder Ballif
Well ya the Tulip Festival is supposed to be this week. But the Tulips haven’t sprouted yet. But the daffodils are awesome. I got some cool pictures. Dee Engel told us to get some postcards from this photography lady. Dee is the lady that called fro me. Well ya, about that, so you sent it already…like is everything I need already sent?
Okay so I woke up this morning to a phone call. Apparently there is this lady in Mt Vernon General Hospital who needs a blessing. And she goes, “I need mormon missionaries” to the doctors and nurses. So a member that works there talked to her and called us. We are going down there later today. So it’s pretty sweet though.
Oh and mom, I’ve recently started a quarter collection, one for every state. I’m going to start sending you these quarters so you can start organizing them :-) .
Love
Elder Ballif
April 6, 2009
Mom!
Hey how are you? Don’t send me that question thing I don’t need it; just the State thing. And could you just send it straight to the mission office. Thank you.
Could you ask Bishop to write me. I don’t have his address. And I’d like if he knows I can’t email.
So Chris Navarrette got his call? That’s awesome. So is he going to serve in the Tampa Mission, Spanish speaking?
So mama, I love you and miss you. I really don’t think its hit me yet. I’m a missionary. I mean do missionary work every day. But I keep feeling like that 8 year old singing, “I hope they call me on a Mission when I have grown a foot or two” :-). But I love being here. I’m just getting into the 5th week of the transfer. It’s insane. I love you mom. And I continue to pray for you all. :-)
- Elder Ballif
Hey how are you? Don’t send me that question thing I don’t need it; just the State thing. And could you just send it straight to the mission office. Thank you.
Could you ask Bishop to write me. I don’t have his address. And I’d like if he knows I can’t email.
So Chris Navarrette got his call? That’s awesome. So is he going to serve in the Tampa Mission, Spanish speaking?
So mama, I love you and miss you. I really don’t think its hit me yet. I’m a missionary. I mean do missionary work every day. But I keep feeling like that 8 year old singing, “I hope they call me on a Mission when I have grown a foot or two” :-). But I love being here. I’m just getting into the 5th week of the transfer. It’s insane. I love you mom. And I continue to pray for you all. :-)
- Elder Ballif
March 30, 2009
Dear Becca,
Yah, you are right, you are pretty much the last one to write, but its okay ;-) I still love ya. Well let’s start on the bad news, Jason dropped us. There was something going on that we still don’t know what it is. But we…. I pray for home almost every night. But besides that things are good. We don’t really have anybody we are teaching. But we hope to soon. Tell Soren and Sofie I love them so much. I miss playing with Soren so much. I love you all and thing about you. But I still know why I’m here. So tell others about the gospel. Help the missionaries. You have no idea how much they appreciate it.
Love, Elder Ballif
Yah, you are right, you are pretty much the last one to write, but its okay ;-) I still love ya. Well let’s start on the bad news, Jason dropped us. There was something going on that we still don’t know what it is. But we…. I pray for home almost every night. But besides that things are good. We don’t really have anybody we are teaching. But we hope to soon. Tell Soren and Sofie I love them so much. I miss playing with Soren so much. I love you all and thing about you. But I still know why I’m here. So tell others about the gospel. Help the missionaries. You have no idea how much they appreciate it.
Love, Elder Ballif
March 28, 2009
Sky,
Ya man, mom told me all about those exciting events. So lets see, my first week here was tough. I was so… confused, frustrated, and lost. I was freaked out. But it got better. My trainer is Japanese. He had to learn English in the MTC. Isn’t that insane! He is funny. But way obedient, which is good. We get along just fine though. So ya, while we are talking about obedience… My mission is a no email mission. I know it’s not cool. But I like letters more. Mainly because there are 4 of us in this apartment and I get more mail in like 2 days that all of them combined in a whole week ‘Cheah’. But that’s only cause one of ‘em is from Japan and another one like never writes home. So I’ll take what I can get :-). I know I’m a punk :-), but anyways our first investigator dropped us. Man I hated the feelings that come with that. I was like crying. I felt so sad. But it’s all good we got like 3 other people we are going to be teaching. So that’s what’s going on here. What’s new? Love ya, Peace!
- Elder Ballif
P.S. It broke 50 degrees here for the first time since I’ve been here.
Ya man, mom told me all about those exciting events. So lets see, my first week here was tough. I was so… confused, frustrated, and lost. I was freaked out. But it got better. My trainer is Japanese. He had to learn English in the MTC. Isn’t that insane! He is funny. But way obedient, which is good. We get along just fine though. So ya, while we are talking about obedience… My mission is a no email mission. I know it’s not cool. But I like letters more. Mainly because there are 4 of us in this apartment and I get more mail in like 2 days that all of them combined in a whole week ‘Cheah’. But that’s only cause one of ‘em is from Japan and another one like never writes home. So I’ll take what I can get :-). I know I’m a punk :-), but anyways our first investigator dropped us. Man I hated the feelings that come with that. I was like crying. I felt so sad. But it’s all good we got like 3 other people we are going to be teaching. So that’s what’s going on here. What’s new? Love ya, Peace!
- Elder Ballif
P.S. It broke 50 degrees here for the first time since I’ve been here.
March 27, 2009
Dear Mom,
Hey mommy! What’s up? I miss hugging you. I miss your smell. It’s like a bear cub knowing his mom’s scent. I miss you in general. Laying on your bed and talking to you at night. Don’t worry, I’m not badly homesick. Just missin’ you all. But it’s ok if I wasn’t homesick; right, now then you didn’t do our job. But I am a little so you did good :-) . Well you have some big things all happening one after the other, don’t you? First, your favorite son goes on a mission then the other gets sealed. Now you have a nephew getting married. At least it’s all keeping you busy. Ha. I j/p. But you sound you have been having tons of fun w/o me! Ha that’s cool. Mom, I love you so much and want to hug you every night. But I’ll settle for the wait and give one big hug one in 2 years. Love you!
- Elder Ballif
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Hey Dad!
What is up? Sorry I had you stop sending me food in the MTC, it’s just hard to eat anything there. They feed us so much we might explode.
But anyways, so this week has been tough. We were dropped by our investigator. He snapped at us when we went over to his house a couple nights ago to see how he was doing. BU it’s just frustrating, Dad. He felt the spirit, I know he did. It just is so hard to watch him harden his heart like this. But the work must go forward. We have other people we are going to start teaching. Hopefully that will go somewhere.
So yeah, other than that things are going great. It’s starting to warm up here too. Yesterday was the first time its broken 50 degrees since I’ve been here. Dad, I love you. And I miss talking with you about stuff. I want you to know I’m being a good missionary, the best that I can be. Love ya!
- Elder Ballif
Hey mommy! What’s up? I miss hugging you. I miss your smell. It’s like a bear cub knowing his mom’s scent. I miss you in general. Laying on your bed and talking to you at night. Don’t worry, I’m not badly homesick. Just missin’ you all. But it’s ok if I wasn’t homesick; right, now then you didn’t do our job. But I am a little so you did good :-) . Well you have some big things all happening one after the other, don’t you? First, your favorite son goes on a mission then the other gets sealed. Now you have a nephew getting married. At least it’s all keeping you busy. Ha. I j/p. But you sound you have been having tons of fun w/o me! Ha that’s cool. Mom, I love you so much and want to hug you every night. But I’ll settle for the wait and give one big hug one in 2 years. Love you!
- Elder Ballif
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Hey Dad!
What is up? Sorry I had you stop sending me food in the MTC, it’s just hard to eat anything there. They feed us so much we might explode.
But anyways, so this week has been tough. We were dropped by our investigator. He snapped at us when we went over to his house a couple nights ago to see how he was doing. BU it’s just frustrating, Dad. He felt the spirit, I know he did. It just is so hard to watch him harden his heart like this. But the work must go forward. We have other people we are going to start teaching. Hopefully that will go somewhere.
So yeah, other than that things are going great. It’s starting to warm up here too. Yesterday was the first time its broken 50 degrees since I’ve been here. Dad, I love you. And I miss talking with you about stuff. I want you to know I’m being a good missionary, the best that I can be. Love ya!
- Elder Ballif
March 20, 2009
Dear Mom,
Hey what is up? That is awesome about the sealing. I wish I could have been there. But it’s okay. The way you described it will do for me :-) . That’s funny and awesome about Soren. I miss everyone. But I know the next 2 years will blow by quick if I stay busy so I intend to. Oh and the information I need is my Motor Vehicle Report from he state of Arizona. They have a photo copy of my license. So I’m pretty sure that’s all I need. So if you could do that it would be awesome. Thanks. Okay well I love you. Ask Bryn about the letter I sent her. Okay well I got to be goin’. Love You! Bye!
- Elder Ballif
Hey what is up? That is awesome about the sealing. I wish I could have been there. But it’s okay. The way you described it will do for me :-) . That’s funny and awesome about Soren. I miss everyone. But I know the next 2 years will blow by quick if I stay busy so I intend to. Oh and the information I need is my Motor Vehicle Report from he state of Arizona. They have a photo copy of my license. So I’m pretty sure that’s all I need. So if you could do that it would be awesome. Thanks. Okay well I love you. Ask Bryn about the letter I sent her. Okay well I got to be goin’. Love You! Bye!
- Elder Ballif
March 17, 2009
Dear Harris Family,
Well I’m going to start with the little ones first. “V” you so pretty. Don’t grow too fast. I wanna see some of it :-) . You too Lil’ Bug. Lilly is so pretty I want some pictures. Well today was awesome! Today was my first teaching appointment with one of my own investigators. We tracted into him last week. His name is Jason. It started off a bit shaky because we went in expecting to teach the restoration. But we didn’t sit down yet really and he was asking Plan of Salvation questions. So we just taught it. He was very understanding. It answered his questions perfectly it was sweet. But we were on a roll so touched on the restoration. The spirit was so strong. As I recited the First Vision Jason began to tear up. I wasn’t so sure at first but as his eyes were way glossy and then turned red he began to wipe his tears. It was pretty evident he felt the Holy Ghost as well. Then we asked him to read from the BofM we gave. And he kinda suggested to some to church. It was sweet! Oh and he said he is very open to religion. It was so awesome. I am so excited to see Jason grow and be edified by the knowledge of the Gospel of Jesus Christ give us. I know this work is true. I love you all and want a letter back. So do it, get to it. And I’m excited for what the future holds for you.
Love,
Elder Ballif
P.S. Can you share the experience with the family and stuff? I don’t want to have to write it over and over again.
P.S.S. “Yea, I know that I am nothing; as to my strength I am weak; therefore I will not boast of myself, but I will boast of my God, for in his strength I can do all things; yea, behold, many mighty miracles we have wrought in this land, for which we will praise his name forever.” (Alma 26:12) “Cheah!”
Well I’m going to start with the little ones first. “V” you so pretty. Don’t grow too fast. I wanna see some of it :-) . You too Lil’ Bug. Lilly is so pretty I want some pictures. Well today was awesome! Today was my first teaching appointment with one of my own investigators. We tracted into him last week. His name is Jason. It started off a bit shaky because we went in expecting to teach the restoration. But we didn’t sit down yet really and he was asking Plan of Salvation questions. So we just taught it. He was very understanding. It answered his questions perfectly it was sweet. But we were on a roll so touched on the restoration. The spirit was so strong. As I recited the First Vision Jason began to tear up. I wasn’t so sure at first but as his eyes were way glossy and then turned red he began to wipe his tears. It was pretty evident he felt the Holy Ghost as well. Then we asked him to read from the BofM we gave. And he kinda suggested to some to church. It was sweet! Oh and he said he is very open to religion. It was so awesome. I am so excited to see Jason grow and be edified by the knowledge of the Gospel of Jesus Christ give us. I know this work is true. I love you all and want a letter back. So do it, get to it. And I’m excited for what the future holds for you.
Love,
Elder Ballif
P.S. Can you share the experience with the family and stuff? I don’t want to have to write it over and over again.
P.S.S. “Yea, I know that I am nothing; as to my strength I am weak; therefore I will not boast of myself, but I will boast of my God, for in his strength I can do all things; yea, behold, many mighty miracles we have wrought in this land, for which we will praise his name forever.” (Alma 26:12) “Cheah!”
March 16, 2009
Dear Mom & Dad,
Well this last week has been hard. Like I told mom before, my trainer is Japanese. It’s different. I don’t always know what he is trying to say, which is difficult. We are never on the same page; because, we can’t communicate more than half of the time. But he has a good desire for the work. I just don’t know what’s going on all the time; plus, we are in a whole new area and highly Baptist and Catholic one at that. I’ll get used to it and the work will start to roll. I love you all. Keep on Keep in’ on! Love You!
- Elder Ballif
Well this last week has been hard. Like I told mom before, my trainer is Japanese. It’s different. I don’t always know what he is trying to say, which is difficult. We are never on the same page; because, we can’t communicate more than half of the time. But he has a good desire for the work. I just don’t know what’s going on all the time; plus, we are in a whole new area and highly Baptist and Catholic one at that. I’ll get used to it and the work will start to roll. I love you all. Keep on Keep in’ on! Love You!
- Elder Ballif
March 2, 2009
Mom,
Thanks for those scriptures. I know not to retaliate on anything that happens to me. J Here are some pics. Elder Jones isn’t my comp. he is like one my favorite here though. We have decided that we are going to be comps. In the field; however, we don’t know when. But we know we will or at least we hope. Nothing against Elder Reed, I love him too. But Elder Jones and I have this bond like have grown up with each other or something. Well I love ya’ll and how was the email that I sent you? I hope it was long enough J
Love you.
Elder Ballif
Thanks for those scriptures. I know not to retaliate on anything that happens to me. J Here are some pics. Elder Jones isn’t my comp. he is like one my favorite here though. We have decided that we are going to be comps. In the field; however, we don’t know when. But we know we will or at least we hope. Nothing against Elder Reed, I love him too. But Elder Jones and I have this bond like have grown up with each other or something. Well I love ya’ll and how was the email that I sent you? I hope it was long enough J
Love you.
Elder Ballif
Elder Reed and I after coming back from the Temple.
Our district after going through a session
Elder Rasumssen and I pointing to our mission location
All of our district and Sisters going to Temple Square
In class at the MTC
Elder Chaalier, Elder Mears, Elder Tingey, Elder Jones, Elder Reed and me (Elder Ballif)
February 25, 2009
Dear Mom,
So thanks also for that very large supply of stamps that I have now. Oh, and if people write me on “Dear Elder” the MTC prints it out and puts it in my mailbox. Its sweet, you do it on the computer. (Talk to Dad :-) )
Well write me back don’t send me treats anymore PLEASE! Unless it’s my Birthday,
Your loving missionary,
Elder Ballif
February 18, 2009 (First Day @ MTC)
Dear Mom & Dad,
Today was the first day at the MTC. It was good it seemed kind of long; but, only because a lot of it was orientation. Tomorrow we will be the first of the next two years. I look forward to it.
My companion is Elder Reed. He is from Mesa, Arizona. He is awesome. I know it’s the first day but I can just tell. Besides, he was called to be our district leader. I am the senior comp though. Brother Christensen told us we are not to rule over each other, but conduct for each other.
Well Brother Christensen challenged me to finish reading The Book of Mormon before I depart for the field. My district is really awesome. Elder Jones wanted to set a goal to read and said “Well Heck, let’s just read with ya.” He is a good Elder. Love you, I really have to go to sleep its already 10:35 PM.
Love,
Elder Ballif
Today was the first day at the MTC. It was good it seemed kind of long; but, only because a lot of it was orientation. Tomorrow we will be the first of the next two years. I look forward to it.
My companion is Elder Reed. He is from Mesa, Arizona. He is awesome. I know it’s the first day but I can just tell. Besides, he was called to be our district leader. I am the senior comp though. Brother Christensen told us we are not to rule over each other, but conduct for each other.
Well Brother Christensen challenged me to finish reading The Book of Mormon before I depart for the field. My district is really awesome. Elder Jones wanted to set a goal to read and said “Well Heck, let’s just read with ya.” He is a good Elder. Love you, I really have to go to sleep its already 10:35 PM.
Love,
Elder Ballif
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