Elder Braxton Ropelato

Homecoming Report & Celebration

2010-05-23T23:55:00.000-07:00

Elder King came over on Saturday and stayed the night with Braxton. These two are such good friends and had such a great time together on their missions. Braxton took Brandon to Kamp Kaboom.

Braxton reported today about his mission. His topic was "The influence of the Holy Ghost in our lives". He did a wonderful job. He shared some neat experiences that happened on his mission. The Holy Ghost is a wonderful gift and will guide us and protect us if we will just listen. The primary answers are what we need to concentrate on.....praying and reading our scriptures. When we do those things we will be more in tune to the spirit and be able to recognize the promptings.

Braxton had a lot of support from our wonderful family and dear friends. The church was full. We really do have great families and friends. (some of our friends that always support us are: The Coys (and kids)~they really are family, the Rodees, the Hardys, the Toomers, the Jones, the Hunters, the Monsons, the Miles, the Hodsons, and the Baileys) We sure are blessed to have such wonderful people in our lives!
We had a celebration at our house afterwards. It's always fun to be able to visit with those we care about and love. It was a bit cold and instead of setting the tables up outside we put them in our dirty garage. John and LaDawn Hunters little grandson went out there and was excited as he looked around at all the stuff and said...."this is awesome". I loved it and I'm glad I was there to hear it. So, it was awesome to have the tables in our garage...dirty as it was.

Braxton had a lot of visiting to do. He ate a few hours later. Actually Braxton hasn't ate that much since he has gotten home. He forgets. (I don't understand)

A bunch of Braxton's friends came by to celebrate too. Braxton has great friends. Even the ones that got married or are engaged came...at least those that were good friends. It was so fun having them over again. They kept coming throughout the night.

Elder King and Elder Cook were there too. I think it is great how great friendships are developed on missions.

So after today....I believe Braxton's mission is wrapped up and that door closes. Now on to many more doors and opportunities...

Braxton you served a great mission. Your testimony is so much stronger and you have learned many good and important lessons, It was nice to hear that you got along with all your comps and that you have no regrets. You were the kind of missionary that your mom thought you were. Good Job!

Brax is Back!

2010-05-17T10:56:00.000-07:00

Today Braxton got back from his mission. We were all so excited and couldn't wait to see him. This is lots funner than dropping them off and saying goodbye for two years. Braxton's flight landed at about 4:04 pm and we were at the Airport anxiously waiting for him to come to us.

A lady came down and told us the missionaries were on their way....she's seen them. We were ready! Poster, balloons, and all of us (except Joe was working and Jaydan in Argentina) And FINALLY there he was!

It was hard to hold back and let Braxton come to us. I went and hugged him first as soon as he was off the escalator. (couldn't help myself) Then I got the camera and let everyone else welcome Braxton home. Lot's of hugs, tears and smiles!

A few other missionaries that served with Braxton even made it to the airport to welcome Braxton home.

I think at times Braxton wasn't sure how to act and since I had the camera pointed at him all the time he'd just make a funny face.

We shared some funny stories on the way home. Braxton also shared some things with us that his Mission President had shared with him. It was awesome seeing him there in the back seat.

As soon as we made it to Hooper we met the Stake President (Matt) and Braxton went in and visited with him and was released. He had tears in his eyes when the door was opened but he also had a huge smile. Braxton had served well with no regrets!

Braxton's wish was to ride a horse home from the corner and had talked about it for some time. We have great neighbors and they made that wish and dream come true. The Hodson's had 5 horses at the corner when we got there. They even had made signs welcoming Braxton home. Brax is like part of their family too. We love the Hodson's. Braxton was so excited. He even brought a cow boy hat home with him from Mexico and had it ready.

It wasn't long and Braxton and the Hodson girls were headed home. I like how Braxton just led the way.

As soon as Braxton was past the houses he took off. He ran right past our house and into the Hodson's corral. Oh Happy Day for Brax!

It was good to see his grandparents again. They were all very happy to see Braxton and give him a big hug!

Braxton just wanted to eat at our house and requested Steak and potatoes. So, we had just that...steak, potatoes and salad and I even made some cheese cake. It was nice having everyone sitting around the table enjoying each other again.

We always eat buffet style. It just works for us. :)

After eating the boys went in the field and then we went up to Braxton's room as he unpacked. (or at least unpacked some souveniors) Then we went back downstairs to look at his pictures on the TV screen. The Hodson's came over about that time too. It was a wonderful day and night! We are so HAPPY to have Braxton HOME!

Reflecting

2010-05-05T08:18:00.000-07:00

This week I am just going to put Braxton's letter the way he sent it. Here it is in his words:

"Well recently I have been reflecting on these best two years, and honestly I really do just LOVE missionary work. I love the people here and whenever I talk in Church I look out across everyone and just smile. I truly am blown away by what can happen to ones understanding in two years. I know I have a long way to go in life but I couldn't be happier with where I am right not. Each passing day is harder and harder. I really don't want to to quit being a real life missionary. Even right now with a full two weeks left my eyes (as Kev would say) are sweating just thinking about going home. Don't get me wrong....you don't know how excited I am to see everyone again, but in all honesty.....I'm not excited to finish. I know the Lord will take me by the hand and guide me something better."

"This week things just pulled together and we should be having like six more baptisms before I go home. God once again has blessed us with finding people who truly want to repent and progress. It's strange that I continue to grow as I did at the start of my mission. Right now really is one of the most rewarding times in my mission. It is absolutely wonderful!"

"Yesterday I went to the center of Mexico City of the first time and I'm ashamed to say it but......I enjoyed the city. There are some really neat things there. Maybe someday I will be able to bring you (mom) and dad to show you how it is."

"You will never know how much I love all of you. The Church really is true and the only way we can receive a fullness of the blessings of the Lord. I sat here for a few minutes trying to remember how to say something but for the life of me I can't remember so anyway....esfuersense to live the gospel and hechele ganas en todo." (ask Kev, Daniel or Ivy for a translation)

Mexico City

2010-05-03T08:09:00.000-07:00

Wowzer's, this week was....eventful?

2010-04-26T15:46:00.000-07:00

Braxton found his girlfriend this week. She is 95 years old and quite the character. Braxton went to interview her for baptism and he said: "let's just say I hope I die before I am 95." When they got to the interview Braxton looked at Elder Berezay and asked him if he was kidding. Braxton was afraid they would drown her or something. But it went well, in fact, it was one of the funniest interviews that he has on his mission, not spiritual mind you , just fun. This sister tried to eat everything and kept putting things in her mouth....camera's, comps hand and finally an old piece of bread which she sucked on for a bit then spit in on the floor and went for the comps hand again. Elder Berezay would tap her on her shoulder when she wasn't looking and she didn't have a clue what was happening. (missions can be fun) At first she wouldn't talk to the Elders so they went and bought her a treat and then she started talking to them. Elder Valencia told her to laugh cause it was quiet and she did the fakest laugh ever and I guess the Elders thought it was awesome. They had to scream to teach her and Braxton thought it was a blast.

Then either Thursday or Friday, they were on divisions and Elder Magadan told Braxton and his comp that a "hot lady" had contacted them in their apartment complex but he didn't want to go teach her because he felt embarrassed. So, Braxton and Elder Whitney said they would go teach her. They knocked and she told them that she was getting in the shower and to come back later, so I guess they just knocked again and she opened the door. When she did Braxton just thought PROSTITUTE. Braxton and Elder Whitney both thought in their minds that Elder Magadan was a faggot because he knew and set them up. (kind of funny if you ask me) Braxton and the other Elder went in feeling terribly uncomfortable and teach the quickest lesson ever, said and prayer and was out of there. This certain Prostitute went through a lot of surgery because she use to be a man. Braxton is sure that he inherited a homophobic gene from his dad because he thought it was the grossest thing ever and down right nasty. Afterwards when they found Elder Magadan he told them it was a joke. Braxton thought that was the worst joke ever!

On the brighter side of things they baptized a lady named Laura. She was scared of the water. She didn't really say she was afraid but her dry heaving in the font kind of made them think so. The drain was broke and when they opened the doors half the water was gone and they had to kneel and baptize from the knees. To fill the font Braxton had to climb up in the Attic of the church and drop through to open it up. But the baptism was cool and Braxton feels like she is just one of those people that will stay active.

While Braxton was in Church on Sunday (which was missionary Sunday) he spoke and then sat and listened to the others and while he was listening it just hit him that he will be coming home real soon. He really didn't like the thought of that. He said he didn't cry but that he did get teary eyed. "The mission is just so so so so amazing. I really just LOVE it, but it has to come to an end. It really sucks." (from his mouth)

He is way excited to see everyone and to get things going in life. He has some ideas of where he'd like to work and will work that out in the Temple when he gets home. He really wants to work in the Temple too when he gets home.

"Well take care everyone, love you all a ton."
nos veremos pronto.
tu hijo, amigo, hermano, para algulen su futuro esposo, quien sera? quien sabe

Not His Time

2010-04-19T15:33:00.000-07:00

Braxton started by saying that he is way jealous of Jaydan right now because he is just starting his mission and that he has a fresh two years. But at the same time he said it's okay because of right now Braxton doesn't have any regrets nor plans for regrets. So Braxton feels great that he is finishing his mission the way he planned on but also sad that it is ending. In fact as he wrote that he said he was shaking really bad. (but ya ni modo)

This week the guy that the missionaries were planning on baptizing decided to party it up and got drunk out of his mind. So he said they will keep working on him.

This is the part for the title: Not his time. On Friday the day after we got to talk to Braxton, Braxton went to a baptismal interview for another missionary. When they got to the house where the interview was to be held the mother wasn't there because she was waiting for her child at the school. Braxton's comp and another missionary decided to go to the store to buy some food. Braxton and the other missionary were sitting there talking and they noticed it sounded like there was a party close by, very close by in fact. Braxton said it sounded like a lamanite war cry before the battle and then just 5 minutes later the first gun shot went off. The missionaries thought it was fireworks. Even though the lady they were waiting for said she would feed them hamburgers Braxton got hungry and told the missionary he was with that he wanted to go to the store and get a hot dog. At that time they started hearing lots of gun shots...no one, two, or even three but probably at least fifty. (not an exaggeration) They were told to get in the store which was quickly locked up and kept them safe from the battle going on just outside. There is a house connected to the store and so they ended up going into it. Then a young high school kid knocks on the door and wants to rent a room because he was hiding from the cops. The kid had a gun with him and wasn't let in and so he took off. At that point Braxton remembers his comp and the other missionary and is worried about them. They were both okay though because they ran for safe ground. Then Braxton said the cops came and all the screaming and havoc and gun shots stopped. They were able to leave and in the exact spot where they had been sitting while waiting for the lady to come home just 15 to 20 minutes earlier looked like a war zone. Bricks were smashed and crushed, car windows were gone, and the police and ambulance trucks were filled with people.

Earlier that day Braxton had decided to carry his own copy of the Book of Mormon in his hand. He had a scripture marked and highlighted that said....I do not fear death because Christ conquered death through the Resurrection.

The four missionaries were lead by "hunger" (or maybe the spirit) out of danger to a safe place. Braxton's testimony grew from the Book of Mormon that was in his hand all day and the influence the Spirit has on us if we listen. God works in mysterious ways, and the thing that counts most is that HE IS working!

I'm just glad that this is a story we were able to hear from our son and not about our son. I am thankful it wasn't his time to go.

Birthday Boy!

2010-04-14T07:35:00.001-07:00

Today is Braxton's 21st birthday! I can't believe how time just speeds right by. What a fun kid Braxton has been. He has been a blessing since the day he entered this world. I can't get enough of that awesome smile, or that mischievous twinkle in his eyes.

I love that he does his own thing, his own way. He's good at whatever he does. I love that he can be serious and that he can teach by the "spirit" and that he feels the difference the "spirit" makes in our lives and others.

I love that he loves the Lord and has spend the last two years serving Him and that he has changed in the process. I am grateful that through his service and mission it has helped me to grow.

I am glad that Braxton is my son! I am glad that he is the middle child and can influence the rest of his siblings and be close to all of them. Braxton has been a wonderful example to us all.

Did you know that Braxton's first word was "Jesus"? Cindee was babysitting one night for us and went and got Braxton from his crib and he pointed at the picture on the wall and said "Jesus". Cindee got the chills, looked around and put Braxton down. He just knew...no one had ever taught him that, he remembered. He has always remembered his Savior and has chosen to follow him throughout his entire life. What a blessing Braxton has been to our family.

We love you Braxton Bennett Ropelato!!!

Started and Ended just like That!

2010-04-12T13:57:00.001-07:00

"Well the first week of the last change is over and the second week has started.....it's just weird."
Braxton is so Thankful for the comp he had now. He is just fun and teaches well and works hard. He said: The Lord rewarded me with a sweet comp to finish out my mission."

They have a baptism this week and are continuing to work hard. They have been a little bit lost since they have been opening up a new area. Braxton thinks they have it under control though.

He didn't have much else to say. He thought about getting his topic for his homecoming report from dad now. (he said he was just kidding though, but the thought was there because he wrote it)

That's about it and he signed it.....Elder Ropelato (the one in Mexico) (silly boy(:)

Cool Week

2010-04-05T20:29:00.000-07:00

Braxton started this letter off by telling about a rat that he had hit using his slingshot. He only hit it with a gummy bear though and so it didn't hurt it. Rocks are harder to find.

From doing door knocks the missionaries were able to find a lot of inactive people and work with them. After giving one lady a blessing she asked the missionaries what was on their hands? She was planning on going to the doctor but didn't need to after the blessing. (cool) It was a really neat experience since she had the faith and believed and was healed.

Braxton really like Dallin H. Oaks talk on Saturday.

Braxton had changes last night and was he is going to Tenayuca. It's like 10 minutes to walk there from where he had been serving. His new comp is Elder Lopez. (one of about 5 named that)

They spent all day Friday looking for an apartment for some missionaries. They were successful and even got the contract signed and everything. There were a ton of changes this time around because the President is getting every thing ready for the new mission. Braxton's mission (Mexico City West) and the North mission are being split to make the Northwest mission.

Well that is all for this week. We get to talk to Braxton this month instead of Mother's Day since Jaydan will be gone soon. Brax was really hoping for the 14th (his birthday) but the calendar was booked for that night and it wouldn't work out for everyone. We are going to try for the 15th.

2010-03-29T16:01:00.000-07:00

Braxton had a great week. They baptized Carlo, the atheist, and he is just an awesome man. He goes with the missionaries to preach and to give blessings and everything. Braxton was way excited and said it was really neat.

Braxton had some of the coolest interviews of his mission this week. One was with a woman who was worried about her husband not wanting to accept the things he's taught. She was very nervous and scared when she went in for her interview but by the time it ended she felt peace. (all the discomfort and fear had gone) Another was with a lady who only listened to the missionaries because she wanted her daughter to listen. This lady didn't think she could be forgiven of the things she had done earlier in her life. She had no hope whatsoever in her mind that she could be forgiven. The missionaries taught about the atonement and how Christ suffered and how she could be forgiven of everything if she would repent and be baptized. This lady and her daughter were baptized yesterday!

"It is truly amazing to see how drastic the Gospel of Jesus Christ changes lives. It gives meaning to life and reason to keep trying." (I so agree) "It was definitely an awesome week to watch the atonement in action."

Things are going great as they head into the last week of this change and the week of Easter. In a meeting that Braxton went to they had spoken about how important the last week of Christ's life was. If Christ would have given up that last week the whole plan of salvation wouldn't have worked. Also, it's in the last week of work that we truly show our love for God.

"I'll be calling in about two weeks to talk to everyone before Jaydan leaves."
Love you all!! Elder Ropelato

Working Hard

2010-03-22T16:07:00.000-07:00

Braxton has been working hard this week but not in his area. He has been interviewing the missionaries and different things.

This week they had a way awesome activity. On Saturday the zone got together and everyone brought investigators. They were taught about the Three Kingdoms. They had a few people get baptized and then the Mission President talked about faith, repentance and baptism. The Stake President spoke on the Atonement and then they watched a slide show. Braxton and Elder Rubalcava sang a duet with a violin. It was a really spiritual activity and got a lot of people excited about baptism.

Braxton found out that Ivy's grandpa works in a Church High School that just happens to be in his area and so Braxton went to see him. They talked about a lot of things. Carlos and Sonia (Ivy's grandparents) have been good to Braxton when they have seen him. They have even taken packages over to him for us.

Got Flight Plans

2010-03-17T12:35:00.000-07:00

Even though there weren't any baptisms this week it was still awesome. Braxton found a lot of new people to teach. The only bad thing about the week was that the whole district was pretty much sick and so Braxton and his comp (who weren't sick) worked at full speed.

Braxton learned more about the Spirit this week. He said that at times we just get in a groove, like knocking doors or contacting and we don't think much else about anything else including listening to the Spirit. When they did listen to the Spirit they were led to new~ great people. They were even fed breakfast by some of these new~great people. They taught an atheist about faith and God and on their next visit with him they challenged him to baptism and he accepted.

Yolanda went to church and invited her boyfriend to listen to the missionaries and he agreed to. Things are going really well and are fun and tiring. But, Braxton said he couldn't be happier!

Braxton got his flight plans this week. He will be arriving in SLC at 4:04 pm. (woot! woot!) We might be sticking around the airport for a while though since Elder Roylance has a 3 hour wait for his flight to Washington. There will be a few more Elders arriving at the same time.

Braxton can't believe how the time has flown by. He said it seems like he just got there yet at the same time like he's been there forever and that he'll never make it home. He doesn't trust the flight plans since he had plans to leave Provo 2 years ago and was put off a few weeks. (it won't happen this time)

Brax said: "may God bless you as much as He is blessing me."

SuRpRiSe!!!

2010-03-14T13:58:00.000-07:00

Brax....look who I met! I even got a hug from him and seriously it made me feel closer to you.
What did you think when you saw his pic? Did you tear up? (I did) You can't believe it huh? I expect a response. :)

look we matched!;) You have a great friend Braxton. I'm glad he is your best friend from the mission because he is a great guy. His report was awesome and it was fun for me to hear. Afterwards he told me that you and him followed each other from area to area. I didn't know that. Have a great day Son!

Time is Flying

2010-03-09T08:30:00.000-08:00

Braxton didn't take good notes this week and so he really couldn't remember a lot of what happened. (he's too young for that(;)

They did have a baptism of a 9 year old girl. They met this little girl, Esmeralda, when they went to re-activate her family. Braxton said it was a really neat baptism. (I'm pretty sure all baptisms are pretty neat)

Braxton got a H1N1 shot. (it's about time....I think he may be immune by now)

They spend time looking for new people to teach and found 7 this week and taught 17 lessons.

Braxton can't believe how fast the time if flying by. It's kind of scary since every day people tell Brax he is going home. It makes him nervous and he wants to finish out strong.

He is excited to come home and see everyone again....it's coming quickly!

Week Full of Changes

2010-03-01T10:58:00.000-08:00

This week was full of changes and meetings. There were office meetings and Zone Conference, but everything was really good and Braxton learned a ton in the meetings. (as always)

On Tuesday, Braxton was in the office eating when Elder Roylance took a strawberry off of his cake and tried to steal a second one. Braxton wasn't going to let him get away with two and so Braxton grabbed his hand and bit hard until he let go of the strawberry. Braxton felt kind of bad afterwards since Elder Roylance couldn't move his hand or thumb for a few hours. (man....I swear I taught my kids not to bite!) Anyway they just laughed since Braxton has a messed up thumb and so did Elder Roylance for awhile. :) His thumb was fine after awhile.

Braxton has been in the mission long enough that he feels like he has acquired the official title of "babysitter". His comp has only been out for four months and seems really young to Braxton. Braxton doesn't mind though because he remembers being the young, inexperienced one too. (it happens to them all) It's a bit of a challenge but all is well anyway. (Braxton didn't really ever like babysitting)

Braxton learned a lot while fasting this week. He has fasted a lot in the mission but he never gave offerings. He realized that it was something that he needed to do even though he really doesn't spend money on dinner or breakfast. As soon as he started giving he received blessings. They came right away after he had given a fast offering. The blessings he mentioned were references, new investigators and things like that. He learned that God requires payment in full before he can give the blessings. You have to earn them and there is no such thing as monthly payments....it has to be upfront. (D&C 82:10)

Everything is going well and Braxton will return home on May 17th. He tried to make arrangements to go to Uruguay and see Jaydan before he came home but with the stipulations on Visa's it won't work out. He said: "I am perfectly happy here in Mexico."
(this part of the mission is hard....leaving people you might not ever see again that you have grown to love so much!) (but his family is very excited to get him home)
These pictures of the basketball hoop brought back memories to me (Dawn) of the day when Braxton jumped up and grabbed ours and the hoop twisted and split Braxton's thumb open. (I could see all the way through it....yuck) That is how he got his twisted thumb. He even went to a plastic surgeon to have it fixed. All the doctor said when he unwrapped it from the surgery after it had healed for a week or so was: "oh, it's a little cockeyed." I took him back years later after he had grown (like the doctor told me to) and nothing more was said about fixing it. So that is Braxton's identity mark.

I get to hug that kid in a few months! I can't wait!

3 Baptisms

2010-02-22T12:00:00.000-08:00

Braxton said they worked really hard this week and they had three baptisms. All baptisms went really well. Braxton said "I really do love being a missionary."

One of Braxton's best friends from the mission, Elder King, is on his way home. It seems weird to Braxton but cool at the same time. Elder King is from Bountiful, Ut.

As for the changes....Braxton will be staying where he is. He does have a new companion, Elder Gutierrez. Braxton doesn't know him but is excited to get to work with him anyway.

Remember the blind lady Braxton told us about a few weeks ago? Well, she plays the piano for their sacrament meetins. She has almost all of the hymns memorized. Braxton thinks that is pretty cool (me too!). What a great example of sharing your talents when it would be easy not too. This lady even volunteers to do it.

Braxton is feeling better from being sick and is back up to speed.

Legend

2010-02-15T14:25:00.001-08:00

This week was pretty good. Braxton taught a lot and had quite a bit of progress. They had two baptisms this weekend and that was nice. At the last minute a lady decided not to be baptized. Braxton is confident that she will be baptized soon.

The little baby that Braxton had talked about a few weeks back that was so sick (had the 15 year old mother) passed away in the hospital. Braxton felt really bad. That makes 12 people that have passed away since Braxton has been serving.

Getting back to the good stuff. Braxton was doing divisions with Elder Allan in his area. They were knocking doors and found some raspberries growing on top of a house. They couldn't reach them and so Braxton got down on his hands and knees and let Elder Allan climb on his back. Elder Allan grabbed a few dropping one on Braxton's back and staining it a bit, also leaving a foot print but that's okay since Braxton wears a back pack which covers it.

Braxton's had a cold and was sneezing a bunch. Just after a family home evening while Braxton had a mouth full of food he sneezed and launched the food all over Elder Allan and himself. He felt a little ridiculous. (I'm wondering why he didn't cover his mouth?)

Braxton is a legend! There is a church owned High School there and a seminary teacher was Braxton's Bishop like a year ago. The teacher obviously has talked about Braxton in his classes which makes Braxton feel good. Anyway, at the baptism on Saturday a few kids came up to Braxton and asked him if he were Elder Ropelato. Braxton said "yes" and the kids were like.....wow, it's an honor to meet you. Our seminary teacher has talked a lot about you and you are the example of what a missionary should be. Braxton got a kick out of that since he doesn't think he is even close to being the best missionary. (I bet he is!) Brax loved it though because he was treated like a super star. Braxton commented "funny things that happen in the mission."

Braxton will be calling in April instead of May so that he can talk to Jaydan before he leaves. (works for me!)

Typhoid Fever

2010-02-08T13:28:00.001-08:00

Braxton let me know that while we were in Hawaii or having fun with our "red neck tubing" he was very sick. He was rushed to the ER on Thursday since he had felt like crap since Wednesday. The members were really scared and flipping out thinking that he was going to die. They gave Braxton a blessing but he didn't have any color in his face, had a temp of 102 and he couldn't move his body from the neck down. (he said it locked up)

The Doctor told him it was the swine flu or typhoid fever. They took a "booger" test and came back with the results. Swine Flu......negative. The Doctor said it was salmonilla (food poisioning) and Typhoid Fever! (He said "Crap"....I do too!) Anyway, he got some medicine and was sent on his way. Braxton said he felt like crap until today. He's finally up and walking and feeling okay.

He said there wasn't any reason to worry since while he was suffering we are all having a great time. In fact we must all be having such a great time because he hasn't heard from anyone for a really long time. (He'd really like to hear from YOU!)

He did think a lot during his days of being sick and learned a ton once again. He said "It's interesting how God creates time for himself to teach us." So for that he won't complain about his rotten uncomfortable, miserable week.

I also wrote to him and let him know another friend is engaged. I try to keep him up on that stuff so he knows what's going on at home. His response was: "when I get home I'm growing a beard and going deer hunting and trapping.....even if it's not in style.....and I want to learn to rope."

Not his best week......So if you just read this why don't you take a minute and write him a line or two. Braxton would love to hear from you before he really does die!

2010-02-01T09:25:00.000-08:00

Fun, Weird, Sad

2010-02-01T08:36:00.000-08:00

This week the missionaries were so busy that they were running (literally) from one appointment to the next which Braxton thought was "pretty sweet".

Braxton's comp doesn't feel very safe in the night time when it gets dark and insists that they carry knifes. So, they are always returning to their house to get their knifes. Braxton carries his practical switch blade and his comp carries the not so practical 8 inch non folding knife. Nothing ever happens and Braxton doesn't feel that anything ever will but it keeps his comp happy.

Braxton was eating lunch with a blind lady on Wednesday and they were talking about some things to her and they asked her how she saw them. (meaning whatever they were talking about) The lady replies "honestly Elders everything is really blurry." They all bust up laughing. (ha,ha,ha)

On Friday a sister in Braxton's ward gave the Elders some money to go buy lunch with. The Elders went to the food court at the Mall and got some Chinese food. While Braxton was standing in line deciding what he wanted this sleazy girl walks up to Braxton, leans against him and asks....what ya buying? Braxton paused and then replied "Chinese Food". Then the girl says.....then what? Braxton told her he was going to eat it. (duh!) Then she continues by telling Braxton he has pretty eyes. Braxton said "thanks". Then she left but said she'd be right back. So purposely Braxton and his comp find a table for just two people. When the girl was coming back Braxton hurried and stuffed a bunch of food into his mouth so he wouldn't have to talk to her. She stopped anyway and just stood there smiling. Braxton looked at her and said "bye" and I guess she understood him because she left. That was Braxtons first time experiencing something like that and hopefully his last. (thinking of this made me think of Christ telling Satan "get behind me Satan" and having nothing to do with him......Good Job Braxton!)

Today for their p-day Braxton played tackle football in the rain. Braxton LOVED it! He said it felt good to hit someone after almost two years. Then he added: "I miss my friends!"

On Sunday they had an awesome Zone activity to get the missionaries excited. They had three different stations and it was really spiritual and uplifting and all the missionaries said that they liked it. (cool beans)

On Saturday a Bishop from another ward got a hold of Braxton and wanted Brax to go with him to visit a family. Braxton asked the assistants if that would be okay and they said it would. They visited with the family and things went well. Then Braxton got a phone call from a lady in his ward begging Braxton and his comp to go to her house asap and it was a life or death situation. They got a taxi and went as far as they could in it and then took of running the rest of the way to the house. (another ten minutes or so) When they got inside the lady told them that her mother was dying. Braxton's comp, Elder Salinas, anointed her and Braxton gave her a blessing. He never mentioned that she would be healed in the blessing only that she would be comfortable and without pain. After the blessing was over the three daughters were still having a hard time. They all talked about a lot of things and Braxton told the daughters that their mother wouldn't pass away until they could accept it because God doesn't want to hurt them. They all knelt down and prayed and as soon as the prayer was over while they were all still kneeling around the bed they watched their mother take her last breath. Braxton said it was amazing how hard it was while she was alive but how the Lord sent them comfort the moment she passed away. All the tears stopped and everything was okay.

Every day Braxton has experiences that show him of a loving Heavenly Father who cares enough to have sent Christ to this Earth to show us the way to return to Him again. Braxton said "I am amazed at the perfectness of this Gospel." "I know it is true and love being able to share it with others even when they reject it."

pictures from Valle

2010-02-01T07:14:00.000-08:00

kind of a rough week

2010-01-25T16:25:00.000-08:00

A older lady that Braxton had come to love passed away this week. (on Thursday) She was the mother of Cosme and Maria Dela luz. She just loved he "guero" which was Braxton. Braxton had promised himself that he would go back to her area and baptize her. Braxton got the call just as they had walked in for lunch. Needless to say he didn't eat much at all that day. It was really hard on him and he couldn't do door knocks either because he would choke up every time he went to speak. The next day he was much better.

Braxton said that everyone seems to be sick and him and his comp have been giving a lot of blessings. A lot more than normal. They gave like 10 just this week.

Braxton experienced another hard thing this week too. A 15 year old mother had a very sick little 4 month old little girl. The baby was in terrible condition. She was having a hard time breathing, and even a hard time crying or coughing. Braxton got frustrated because the mom didn't want to take the baby to the hospital and instead was waiting for her husband to get home. Even then because of insurance reasons she wouldn't take her to the hospital that was close but was going to take her to one that was like an hour away. The mom said it wasn't convenient. At that point Braxton said "have you that about what's convenient for your daughter?" Braxton was sure the baby was going to die, but the family got in a taxi and he hasn't heard anything since. Braxton said it was a good thing he was a missionary because he wanted to smack her. (he wouldn't smack her even if he wasn't a missionary) It just really frustrated him to see a child with a child.

A good thing that happened this week was......the missionaries got a Christmas package from a family that has a missionary in the field. The missionary had told his mom to treat the missionaries good and she did. She sent shirts, deodorant, razors, food and candy. It was really cool for the missionaries to receive that package. (I love having others spoil my kids).

Another good thing that happened was when Braxton weighed himself he was down 10 lbs. (5 kilos) He was pretty excited about that! They got to play baseball for the first time since he's been out. He had a great time but got scratched up pretty bad.

"All in all things are going great and I couldn't ask for anything more. I just love the Church so, so, so much as well as each of you"

ps. Braxton found a guy that has been teaching English over a year and a half and they have an appointment with him for Wednesday.

Not Much This Week

2010-01-18T16:07:00.000-08:00

Braxton's new companionis Elder Salinas. Elder Salinas has only been in the mission for 3 months. Braxton said "all is well."

It's weird for Braxton to be in an area with so many members, but he thinks it is way cool too. The missionaries are working a ton with the members and Braxton is excited to see what will happen.

This week they really didn't have much time to teach since they counsel with the President on Wednesday and a conference on Friday. Braxton always enjoys the conferences though and always learns a lot.

This morning Braxton played basketball on a wood floor and said that he can still grab the rim. (he thought that was great!)

He had an appointment and so didn't have time to write much else. He ended with " all is really, really excellent!)

pics

2010-01-15T06:35:00.000-08:00

Transfer & Win-Win Situation

2010-01-11T06:01:00.000-08:00

This week Braxton spent a lot of time traveling. He said more than he has ever traveled. Sometimes it was 3 hours and still in his area. They were interviewing a lot of people this week.
In one day Braxton went to Colorines, then Otzoloapan, then Zuluapan, then Zacazanapan, then Luviano (which is said to be the most dangerous place in then mish, but Braxton didn't know until after) and then to Tejupilco. Needless to say it was a very long day. While he was in Otzoloapn Braxton bought a few knifes. A cop told him it was a Federal offense to carry them, but didn't to anything about it so Braxton now has them put away in his bags.

Braxton bought some bread this week that had bugs in it. He just picked out what he could see and enjoyed his bread.

In Santo Tomas de los Plantanos the missionaries taught a girl and prepared her for baptism on Saturday. They needed to take her to church (for baptism) but they already had a full car and so they needed to let one of the members kids out so that this girl would fit. Braxton said that they were only like 10 minutes from the house but it wasn't visible and there was absolutely nothing around. It was the middle of no where. As he drove away he looked in the rear view mirror and the little kid was waving. The little kid had cut his finger a week earlier and had a brace on it so when he was waving it looked like he was flipping them off.

The baptism was amazing! It's really cold right now and everyone wears coats and a few sweaters and the baptism was in a waterfall. It had rained everyday this week and Braxton just kept praying that the sun would shine on Sunday and that the water would be warm or at least bearable. When it was time for the baptism it was sunny, but cold. By the waterfall everything is shaded but when they stepped into the water it wasn't near as cold as it should have been. Braxton baptized the girl and when they walked out of the water they weren't cold. There was a breeze and the others who were watching were cold but Braxton and the girl never were. They even walked back to the car which took another 15 minutes but still didn't get cold. It was a really neat experience for Braxton.

Braxton is leaving Valle de Bravo. He is fine with leaving the area (since it's so big) but he was said to leave the members. It was a really great experience for Braxton to serve there for so long and he grew a ton while serving there. Valle de Bravo is the smallest branch and in the area farthest south and he is going to an area with 4 wards and the most dense place in the mission (as far as member go) and it's almost the farthest north in the mission. The area is Acueducto and it is in the Tenayo Zone. It will be a big change but Braxton is way excited.

Braxton enjoyed Sunday. He said it was really spiritual even though once again the speakers didn't show and the missionaries were asked to speak about 3 minutes before the meeting. It amazes Braxton how the Holy Ghost will just guide you when needed.

Braxton said "I honestly feel happier than I've ever been in my life right now for being able to share the Gospel with others and to progress myself." "Reflecting on last year and what I did and how Happy I was. It was the happiest year ever and I learned that by being apart of the missionary work is a Win-Win situation. we grow and others grow. The Lord blesses all of us."

"I just love the Gospel and I know that God blesses the family!!! I love you all so much and my for each of you grows as each day passes."

New Years & Goals

2010-01-04T12:37:00.001-08:00

Braxton went to the gym this morning and after working out he just wanted to throw up. That's what happens when you don't exercise for 20 years and then go full force all at once. :)

Braxton had an enjoyable week. He said he learned a lot about.....life. He has been thinking about goals since it is the first of another year. As he got his goals down he realized that the majority of them are family oriented and that living the gospel is the only way to achieve them. Which means they are good goals.

Braxton has been reading the Miracle of Forgiveness and just loves it. He thinks it is one of the best books he has ever read. The book if full of advice on everything including how to have a happy family. Another goal that he made was to do a back flip off a bar, a swinging bar. I believe that is happening today so hope all goes well.

There is a volcano outside the window and it is covered with snow. Braxton wasn't prepared to be serving in the cold. Nothing in his packet told him to bring anything warm. So he's cold but loving life anyway.

One of the thoughts that came from the book "Miracle of Forgiveness" is:....it's easier to stay away from sin than to pay the price later. (so true)

Oh and Braxton did have a baptism this week of a 16 year old kid. He said it was really spiritual .

just pictures

2009-12-30T12:30:00.001-08:00

Celebrating Dad's birthday

2009-12-28T12:11:00.000-08:00

Braxton and the other missionaries went to Pena again. They ran across a guy who told them about a cave. Braxton of course was excited because he loves adventure. The guy went with them and Braxton was talking to him. As they talked they discussed stories about "the devils cave." Braxton said the stories weren't good stories either, then the guy told them that is where they were at. Braxton said it was way tight and they lighted their way with cell phones.

Braxton didn't work a lot in his area this week because of Christmas and being in Metepec for the majority of the time. They did find a family of five however. The family had a nephew that had passed away a few months ago and they were interested in the message the missionaries had.

Things are going good and the time is flying by. Braxton is way happy though and enjoying his mission. For Christmas Braxton got the "Miracle of Forgiveness" by Spencer W. Kimball and he is enjoying reading it. (he loves it) His favorite quote so far is: "Hell is paved with good intentions!"

Yesterday only seven people were at church and two of those were the missionaries. So that is the only thing that isn't good right now. ("it sucks, oh and so does Satan")

Loved talking to the family on Christmas. It was a highlight for Braxton and us all.

Christmas

2009-12-26T12:11:00.001-08:00

This year Braxton got a box of wrapped gifts with scriptures to go with the gifts inside. I guess all the gifts had been poked by someone so they could see what was inside. So instead of a gift a day some got opened sooner. Braxton and his comp had Christmas with a few other Elders. I think Braxton said there were 6 of them together. (they were in Metepec) Braxton also got a book of the cruises which he loved! I know the missionaries went some place Christmas morning but from about 10:11 his time until about 2:30 he had his phone to his ear. :) Brooke came over and spent a little time talking to him too.
We let Jaydan talk to Braxton first and tell him about his mission call. Braxton guessed the closest and had even thought of Uruguay. I guess we know who has the "spirit". Anyway for guessing so close, Braxton will get another package sent to him before he comes home. Everyone in our family got to spent time talking to Braxton. Braxton sounded really good and has changed in a good way. He even has noticed the change in himself. :) It was really nice having the time to talk to him. We went through 4 calling cards. We wouldn't have even went through one if it had been a land line but cell phones eat up the minutes. I'm not complaining though because I had bought the calling cards last year and had them left over.

One more phone call in May and then Braxton will be home. Jaydan will just miss seeing him by a month. So another 2 years for those two!

Metepec for Christmas

2009-12-21T07:10:00.000-08:00

Braxton was a little sad that he wouldn't be spending Christmas in Valle de Bravo. Even though he is still assigned there the zone will be spending Christmas in Metepec all together. I guess it's to keep everyone doing the right thing and not messing up by doing something stupid.

They confirmed Ernestina yesterday and afterwards had a little branch activity which was nice.Braxton said it is a little cold (who'd have thought in Mexico). He didn't right much else because his hands were numb and besides we get to talk to him this week for Christmas! Hooray, Merry Christmas to us all!

Braxton needs glasses and so when he gets home he plans on working in the fields to work off anything that we might send him to help with the expense. (good boy!)

Dec 14th 19th month mark!

2009-12-14T13:57:00.000-08:00

This week was a great week for Braxton. They had a baptism on Monday and it was good. There were a few complications but everything worked out and they got it done. The family was late but they are three hours from Braxton's area so they were forgiven. They did the baptism interview in the food court at a mall and then they went to the Church. Elder King and Magadan had a baptism on Sunday and the water hadn't drained all the way so Braxton got to stand in the cold water and bucket it out for two hours. They were able to get it warm though for the baptism. The woman that was getting baptized was a big lady and so they thought that going face first might be the best idea. They tried it and she didn't go all the way under. Braxton had thought about pushing her but hadn't. They had to try again and this time Braxton did push her so that she would go all the way under. She is happy that she is now baptized.

They had Zone Conferences again and Braxton was told to prepare a talk. He prepared for it and had a talk ready that would have lasted over 1/2 an hour and again did not need to use it. The President and the assistants did everything. Braxton said even though the meeting was repetitious it was still good and he did learn from it.

Braxton then had a 2 1/2 hour bus ride home. He got on where the bus starts and off where it ends. He found a seat and got comfortable. The bus filled up pretty quick and Braxton didn't feel too bad about keeping his seat since those standing were all men. Then a young lady got on the bus and was standing by Braxton. He still didn't want to give up his seat since he gets motions sickness but he thought if she looked at him that he would. She ended up stepping on his foot and looking at him to say she was sorry. Braxton then gave up his seat to her. After standing for 45 minutes the guy sitting next to the young lady gets off and Braxton takes that seat the rest of the way. When he sat down they saw a semi and trailer completely upside down and twisted up pretty bad. When Braxton got off the bus he slipped and noticed that it was because he just stepped in someone elses throw up. (yuck!)

Braxton went to Elder Kings house to pick up some of his clothes and noticed that the place was a disaster. The Elders were at a food appointment at the time. So Braxton made their beds, folded some clothes and swept the floor, organized the desks and bought light bulbs for them and put candy corn on their beds. (Brax is a keeper!) The missionaries had told Braxton that they didn't have gas and had been showering out of a bucket. Braxton decided to buy them a tank of gas and have it hooked up. When he went out to unhook the tank that was there it was half full. So, Braxton went inside and hooked up the boiler. (the Elders just didn't know how to do it. Thank goodness Braxton did)

Braxton had a really good talk with Viridiana, the really cool lady that still isn't baptized. He feels like she will be able to make the decision to be baptized soon.

Berenice and Domitila and Jenny all want to be baptized but the husbands or fathers won't allow it to happen. That really bums Braxton out and he wished that he could talk to the men, but they are never around.

Braxton is continually learning everyday and loves how amazing it is to be a missionary and serve the Lord. He loves it!

Another Fast Week

2009-12-07T06:12:00.000-08:00

It is scaring Braxton how fast the weeks are going by. An Elder told Braxton that he only has 23 weeks left and that didn't really make Braxton's day at all. The time is going quickly and it opened Braxton's eyes. He said "all is well" though. Braxton doesn't have any regrets about his mission so far and probably won't with the little time left.

Changes were on Tuesday and then a leadership meeting on Wednesday, Zone meeting on Thursday. Braxton didn't get back to his area until Thursday Night. He had some good news.....he got to go with the zone leaders to Ticoman and show them some of the people he had worked with a year ago. It was great seeing those people again.

President Fuentes went up to Braxton after one of the meetings and told him that he was trusting Braxton with his new comp. Even though Braxton hadn't heard much good about his comp he said the few days that he has been with him has been fine! Braxton is on fire and loves working. He is excited with this change and even has two baptisms set up, which of course is always way exciting.

Braxton doesn't have much else to share since the week just kind of blurrs together. He said that the weather is nice. A little chilly but not near as bad as last year. (I'm glad he has cool weather....I thought it would be hot all the time)

Braxton loves us all and will be talking to us in just 18 days!

Quick Week

2009-12-01T16:24:00.000-08:00

Braxton said not much has changed since last week. The cookies that he was making for a family on Thanksgiving worked out great and now that family thinks he is a great chef. (I got a call from Braxton only because he had a ? about the recipe....lucky me!)

This last Sunday there were 34 people at church which is the most that they have ever had. Quite the change from last week! Church was awesome and the Elders Quorum's wife brought lunch for everyone so they could all eat together after Church. A few of the investigators left for awhile and showed up later with some cake that they had bought at the store. :) (ignorance is bliss at times) They haven't learned yet about keeping the Sabbath Day Holy.

After Church Braxton went to Tejupilco for a baptism of a lady that Braxton had interviewed. She wanted Braxton and his companion to go so they did and it was neat.

Today (p-day) Braxton went to see the butterflies again. This time they went with some Elders and they traveled on horse. Braxton misses horseback riding really bad and was glad for the opportunity.

They have changes tomorrow and Braxton's comp is being transferred. They have worked really well together and Braxton will miss him. Braxton's new comp will be Elder Escobar. Braxton is hoping he gets to stay in this area for Christmas. He's not ready to leave yet. But, he will if that's what the Lord wants. He will go where the Lord wants him to go!

*His Christmas Packages made it!

I am Thankful for......Trials?

2009-11-23T14:15:00.000-08:00

This week wasn't the best of weeks for Braxton. Brax and his comp worked hard, taught a lot, had great lessons and had ten investigators committed to come to church. At the last minute no one could go to Church. Braxton and his comp left the house around 10:00 and found a girl name Jenny with a friend and so they picked them up and took them to church. Then the missionaries went to find more people to bring to church. The only people they could find was Jenny's parents who wanted to know where the "prayer house" was so they could take Jenny some breakfast. When Brax and comp made it back Jenny and her friend were no longer there.

11:00 rolled around when church should be starting and the only ones there were the Branch President and the two missionaries. The Branch President told the missionaries that they had better prepare some talks. At 11:15 there still wasn't anyone else there so they just started with the three of them. They took the sacrament and started giving their talks. Braxton's comp spoke first for about 20 minutes and then Braxton took another 30. Just when Braxton was finishing his talk the Branch Secretary came in with an investigator that the missionaries least expected to show up. They continued and then finished that meeting and went on to Gospel Principles class and finished up for the day.

The Branch President said that he had felt like this was going to happen. (no one showing up) but thought that it would have the week before. (Braxton didn't say why) It really hurt Braxton a lot to have that sort of thing happen. (broke his heart) It was really rough on him but he is trying to learn from it and other experiences that are hard. Braxton pleads with us to not ever take the Church for granted. He said "it really is amazing.....sure there are a handful of members that gossip or what not but what a blessing to have everyone else."

Braxton doesn't want us to worry about him though. He knows he is doing his part and that this is just a test. He knows that God will send more miracles at the right time. Braxton knows that his prayers are being heard and that no matter what God is with him. He said that from this experience it also helped him understand a part of his Patriartical Blessing that he hadn't understood before.

Braxton is Thankful for so much! He's thankful for: the plan of salvation and all the tender mercies of the Lord, the organization of the Church, for a living prophet and apostles, the scriptures, prayer, his home ward, and basically everything about the Church. But, what comes first to mind is his wonderful family!

Trichelle-for listening when he wanted to talk and teaching him many of life's lessons.

Justin-for being one of his best friends to go hunting with and goofing around with as well as all the support needed from a big brother.

Kevin-for preparing the way and giving me a righteous example to follow and watching out for him.

Jaydan-for all the little times they would play ball or go to Kaboom and for all the things he has shared with him.

Kimi-for teaching him about how to love and for all her hugs.

Jared-loved playing baseball or basketball with you and for all the love you have shown him.

Mom & Dad-can't even begin to explain all they've done for him.

Gramps (Mutt) is really like a best friend and has taught him a ton about work and selfless service.

Braxton is thankful to everyone in his family for helping him get to where he is today. (this includes Natalie, Joe, Ivy, Mya, and Zaden and all of the grandparents as well) Braxton said "I couldn't have asked for a better family and the more it grows the better it gets. Love you all. I'm so thankful for all our neighbors and all my friends and extended family". The list could go on and on.

Braxton went and visited a place that had a bunch of monarch butterflies. They are in his area and come all the way from Canada and stop there. It is unbelievable how many there are, thousands and thousands of them!

Kick to the Face

2009-11-16T15:28:00.000-08:00

I told Braxton that I just sent off his last package. (Christmas) He thought that was weird only because it means he doesn't have much time left in the mission. That fact is both good and not so good. He has really learned to love the people he has served and wouldn't mind bringing some home with him. He knows that isn't possible since it's really hard to get Mexicans over the border. (I'm not so sure it's really that hard...just saying)

Anyway this week Braxton continued to learn a lot in a harder way. (not quite sure how?) They had Zone Conferences which are always good and uplifting and super cool and which Braxton just loves. This time Braxton had a huge power point presentation prepared and was told he didn't need to do it. (I'm sure Braxton learned a lot from it at least) At the Conference Braxton learned a ton on how to be a missionary like those in the Book of Mormon. (something Braxton has been searching for his whole mission) The missionaries are there to help teach other people what they need to do to return to God. If the people won't let the missionaries in or talk to them the missionaries let them know that it makes them sad that they are denying blessings for them and their family and then they ask again to come in and talk. Braxton is just super excited to follow the example of Christ and his Prophets of old as well as the modern day Prophets.

"I'M A REAL LIFE MISSIONARY!!"

Braxton is not a fan of Satan (good thing). He feels like Satan is trying really hard to stop the work in his area. He feels like Satan looks when they knock and doesn't do much if they even go inside, but when they invite them to be baptized and are told "yes" Satan turns on his "turbo" and really goes to work. It really frustrates Braxton but he has faith that the spirit will prevail which has helped him to calm down a bit. Some of the other Elders told Braxton that in a way it is a compliment. Satan is working so hard in his area because he's worried and upset at what can happen. Braxton said Satan is just way, way upset then. Braxton said "I've never seen him work so hard against people in my life."

Braxton knows that with prayer, fasting and working diligently the work will go forth rapidly. Braxton said that he has learned a lot this week and is thankful to his "Padre Celestial" (Heavenly Father). He loves how Heavenly Father gives him so many opportunities to grow and help others on their way.

I love you all! (everyone included)

The family is just the best and mine is the best of the best! (I agree(:)

WoWzeRs

2009-11-09T17:01:00.000-08:00

This week I am just going to type Braxton's letter the way he sent it. It was just cool the way it was.

"Holy Cow, the mission is just flying. I just love it! It's weird to think that I only have months six left and maybe it's because I'm only in my third area and I feel like I just got here. But, by all means it is just great!

Elder Tenorio from the Seventy came and spoke with us and it was just awesome!!!!!! I loved it! Elder Tenorio also interviewed me which was way cool. He only interviewed four people from the two zones that were present. When the assistants told me he was going to interview me I was way excited but way, way nervous. That is up until the time I walked into the room with him, all the nerves and fear were immediately gone. The interview was just absolutely wonderful! I've never talked one on one with a General Authority before, and it was a great blessing for me. As he said the closing prayer he prayed specifically for all of you. I thought I'd share that so that you would know a General Authority prayed specifically for a small little family in Hooper. (well at least now I know my mission has been a little of a blessing to you. ha, ha)

I want you all to know that I know this is the True Church and I promise you all that as we come closer to the Gospel and make it more fully a part of our lives, the Lord will be able to bless us more and more. Family problems will be resolved automatically as we strive to obtain Christlike attributes. Don't ever fear or doubt! Keep looking forward and do all you can and nothing bad can happen.

In my interview, Elder Tenorio asked me if there had been any undesirable experiences in my mission. As I thought about it....I realized that every experience has been for my good. Sure there have been hard experiences but after looking back on them I've only learned valuable principles from them.

Know that God loves you and that when trials arrive, thank the Lord for the chance to learn and grow. The Church is just absolutely amazing and perfect. The more involved we are with the Church the closer we become to God. The closer we get to God makes us a few steps closer to an Eternal Happiness with our Eternal Family.

I love you all more so now than when I left. I've learned things about each of you that have helped me get to where I am now. Things which before I took for granted. I'm excited to talk to y'all next month.

Don't worry about me. All is well, or even better than well. I've figured out that if I just teach really spiritual, powerful lessons that we get food. Just another incentive to be worthy of the Spirit. (haha) But seriously, we had one of the best meals ever a few nights ago with a Viridianas Family, almost all of which are now listening to and loving the Gospel. The families name is Gomeztagle. Weird I know, but cool.

Take care my beloved family and whoever else may read this. I love you all! I invite everyone to share the simple message of truth with someone who is still in darkness. May the Lord bless you as you strive to serve Him in this great work of love!

Your Mexican friend, son and brother.......Elder Ropelato"

Valle de Bravo is Super

2009-11-02T15:22:00.000-08:00

Things are going great for Braxton and Elder Flores. They are teaching a bunch of really great people. They should have two baptisms on Saturday. Braxton is just really excited about them and says that their are others who are close.

On Saturday a lady named Viridiana went to the English classes. She lives really close by and so Braxton plans to teach her and her family this week. Braxton said "things have just turned around from good to........gooder."

Braxton was thinking about all the things that he is thankful for. Since being in the mission he realizes the many things that he just took for granted that are such a huge blessing to him. Like: all the Firesides in Utah, the size of the Wards, the help and love from the Ward, the church building.....so many things. He appreciates his family and friends more. And the mission itself has been one of the greatest blessing ever. Everything he learns makes him realize how much better the future will be for him and how much he will appreciate everything more too. Like his
children and "smoking hot" wife.

A fun thing that happened this week is that Braxton bought some tootsie rolls. He made a duck out of them. (you know, you should always play with your candy first.....it last longer that way) Actually, he remembers when Grandpa use to bring tootsie rolls to church and Justin had made a duck out of some. (I just remembered that the other day myself) Braxton was quite impressed with his little brown tootsie roll duck. :)

This week for a few days there wasn't water, gas, electricity, money or clean clothes. Braxton didn't like that at all. (aren't we spoiled by all the conveniences we have) Life goes on though with all those thing or not. Brax was glad when they got all those things back.

Braxton ran across a lady that owns a ranch in Valle de Bravo and also a huge one in New York. The lady is loaded in fact after Braxton had met her she called him and told him that she bought another ranch and 4 green houses. They talked about landscaping them since that is what Braxton is interested in when he gets home. They had a good conversation and it kind of got Braxton excited and thinking. He is putting those thoughts and ideas away though for now and is going to continue to concentrate on his mission. He is loving his mission. Life is good!

Still Growing!

2009-10-27T07:40:00.000-07:00

Braxton started his letter off this week expressing his love for everyone. He loves us all a lot! Brax wasn't sure where to start as far as explaining all that he has learned over this week. He then said "I LOVE THE BOOK OF MORMON". "It's amazing and the things you can learn from it are without number." Braxton particularly studied Mormon chapters 8 and 9 and knows their love for us. He said that Mexico if very well described in these chapters and he has no doubt that the prophets of old really did see us, in our days and wrote directly to us for these days. They are pleading with us to change our ways. They know that the time is close and that the time to change is now!

Jeffery R. Holland reminds Braxton of how the ancient prophets probably spoke. That is with boldness, straightforward, clearly and with lots of love. Braxton just loves it! Braxton was thinking of the scripture that talks about asking in Faith nothing doubting and how it shall be given. He said he never quite understood that before his mission but is now catching the vision of it. Braxton said that Satan is attacking the Branch through the family really hard. (here too) Braxton was reading the scriptures and realized that he could and should pray for each family individually and ask for them to be blessed with their specific needs. He knows that Heavenly Father will bless them and be with them. That brought real comfort and peace to Braxton.

Braxton feels that before his area was opened up to the Gospel that it was Satan's kingdom. Satan was the one ruling there and now that the truth has been brought there the saints are being attacked like the ones were in the early days of the church. Braxton has really learned a lot through this experience and he testimony has grown tremendously.

Braxton has never felt happier, but at the same time never felt so sad. The happiness because of his family and his increased understanding of the Gospel and the joy that comes through working diligently. The sadness comes also from the his increased understanding that everyone doesn't have the Gospel in their lives and that many will not except it, but reject it for worldly things and loose eternal blessings. "As Moroni in Mormon asked...how do you think that eternal happiness is worth less than misery without end?" (he said not word for word but something like that) "Agency is a gift that will never be taken away..." Braxton feels great about his mission even though they are not baptizing a lot right now. He is giving it his all and doing his best. The missionaries were reminding by the Stake President that some people plant seeds and others harvest. Braxton knows he is planting a lot of seeds. The missionaries and members have helped the Lords work by activating 30 members. They are hoping to see more baptisms soon as well. Braxton asked that we all pray for him and his comp and the members and people there and throughout the world with similar situations. Braxton loves the Gospel and this church and knows that it is true!

Pictures of Home

2009-10-27T07:00:00.000-07:00

Braxton requested that I send him pictures from home. He wanted the tractors and cows and his truck, all the things he misses. So, here they are Braxton. I added a few of the family too.

No Changes for Braxton

2009-10-20T15:39:00.000-07:00

Braxton isn't going anywhere again this change. He said this is the fourth change with the same companion and area which just never happens. In fact he hasn't ever heard of it in his mission. He's excited though. Braxton really likes his comp, Elder Flores.

Braxton continues to learn a lot all the time. He said his favorite subject right now is repentance. It is just amazing! He has found that if he can teach the principle of repentance well people have an easier time with commitment. Because "a commitment is obligating YOURSELF to do something and if people understand repentance they really do obligate themselves to change and no one has to force them." "It is really neat." Braxton admitted to not paying attention in his English classes and so he has a hard time explaining things the way he'd like.

"I love, love, love the mission! It is the Best Thing to happen to me. Well after the Atonement, and family. But yeah it has been wonderful and keeps being wonderful to me each day."

Braxton is teaching Cecilia and if everything goes well, she will be bapitzed on Sunday. She needs to go to Church though before she can get baptized. Cecilia is progressing very well and understands all that the missionaries are teaching her. Braxton is praying for everything to go well.

On Monday (p-day) the missionaries went to Tenancingo with the zone to go fishing. But, the place was closed so they couldn't. Then they went to the pyramids and they were closed too. (bad luck still happens to the missionaries) The pyramids were on the other side of their zone which is the biggest zone in their mission. So, they traveled all day and didn't get to do anything. Braxton at least took some pictures of cowsBraxton also had a little decussion with an Elder King (from Bountiful, UT) about Pirates and Ninja's and which one was better. Elder King thinks pirates are better and Braxton doesn't agree at all. They took pictures to prove it. (if that really proves anything....it looks like they had fun though at least) Braxton is the pirate in one picture. The other ninja's are Braxton.

(I love the wooden leg. :D)

"Last but not least, and yes worse of all.....I picked my shoe up to put it on and a wolf spider came flying out of it. If you know Elder Ropelato at all, you know he HATES spiders, but likes wolves. Anyway the spider in dead and I am happy now."

Braxton again mentions that the mission is the greatest gift that he has been blessed with. He loves teaching the restoration of the Gospel. He is seeing miracles constantly and it is clear to him that God is behind the work and that "the Gospel it TRUE! The Book of Mormon is TRUE! There is a living Prophet today. Prayer is real. God and Jesus Christ love us!"

Brax loves all of us....grandma's, grandpa's, mom, dad, brothers, sisters, sister in law, nieces, nephew, friends, neighbors, cousing, aunts, uncles.....farm and tractors too. He ends with..."take care everyone and know that Elder Ropelato loves you and that he is a representative of our Lord Jesus Christ. I am constantly praying for each of you and ask for your prayers as well to give me and extra boost to this great and marvelous work."

PS from Braxton's comp....les amo y se cuiden mucho y que orara por todos ustedes

(translation-I love you (them) and take care and I will pray for you all)

Crazy Kid

2009-10-16T07:17:00.000-07:00

And last but not least......missions don't change the person completely!

Army of God

2009-10-14T07:01:00.000-07:00

This was a great week for Braxton. He was able to teach a lot of lessons, 29 in fact. Twenty two of those were about the restoration of the Gospel and he said that his testimony grew so much from testifying of it. It was a neat experience for him.

They were able to go to the Temple this week. Braxton thought it was the best experience he has ever had in the Temple. He learned so much and had some neat experiences. While he was in the Celestial room and thanking Heavenly Father for his family, he was able to see how each member has helped him in his life in a specific way. It was a great experience for him. He loves how Heavenly Father works and teaches us. Braxton is so thankful for everyone in his family, including the in laws and extended family. (he also included Daniel and his family, which will always be important to us and loved by us) He just feels that he has "flat out been blessed with the best."

As he sat in the Temple and looked around at all the missionaries he thought of the Army of God. All those missionaries were called of God to bring the Gospel to the World. What a blessing to be a part of that. Braxton loves it!

He loves being in the Temple and how different it is from the outside world. It's calm, peaceful, and perfect. Just outside the doors is the biggest city in the world, full of corruption and noise, but inside it is Heaven on Earth. No noise, just perfect silence......So Amazing!

He also met Temple workers that were from Hooper. They have lived in California for like 40 years. Their names are Annette Beus Christensen and Allan Christensen. Annette went to school with Braxton's grandma Donna. (small world)

Brax says the days and weeks are flying by. It scares him in a way that this will all be over soon. Even though he is excited to come home and be with everyone again.

He loves everyone more than you'll ever know.

2009-10-05T16:12:00.000-07:00

Plant of Mexico

There is a rope caught on the burro and Braxton is helping get it unstuck. Then I think he tried riding the little guy. The picture was blurring and he referred to it as "fetchin burro."

Vive La Mexico

Braxton has to cross this stream and go through the forest to get to a members house.

Skinny little masks. Braxton thinks it makes his face look fat even though he is loosing weight.

This is the view from their home. (I like it! I also like their treats!)

Lots of money to pay the bills. Notice the lonely American bill?

Where's Washington?

These are toilets. Braxton said his "Kamp Kaboom" had better toilets.

Peace and quiet and absolutely nothing. Braxton loves it.

Braxton just loves the country. He really is a country boy.

Oh, the beautiful country side.Mexican transportation! You gotta love it!

So many adventures being a missionary!

Good and Busy

2009-10-05T15:45:00.000-07:00

Even though Braxton was only in his area for just 2 1/2 days they were busy. They taught 23 lessons and found 13 new investigators. (he said actually God taught 23 lessons and He found the 13 investigators through the missionaries) That is a lot more than normal. The First Presidency recently sent out a new way to work with members and told the missionaries to teach at least 20 lessons. Brax and his comp taught 7 in the two days they had and when Braxton came back from meetings that week with his zone leader they needed to teach 13 lessons to reach that goal. He said it wasn't an option to not reach it. (even thought they had been gone to meetings and didn't have the usual amount of time) They were only able to teach 11 lessons on Friday. (still darn good) So, on Saturday before English lessons they went and taught some more people and in English class Braxton taught another lesson. On Sunday they taught 2 more. They were able to finish their goal for the week and said it was pretty amazing. It has helped Braxton to realize that there are no limits to the mission, and that setting goals is very important.

Braxton was able to hear the Priesthood Session of Conference on Saturday, but that was all the Conference they were able to get. The other sessions were recorded and are being sent DVD this week. There wasn't any way to transmit it to Valle de Bravo. Brax said the Priesthood session just blew him away and that the Church is so TRUE! Again he can't begin to describe or explain his feelings about the Church and his testimony of it. He feels such an overwhelming of joy and happiness and something else. (can't put a word to it) There is no room for doubt of the truthfulness of the Gospel and the Church. "I LOVE IT"

On Sunday, fast Sunday, Braxton fasted for a new member that hasn't been to Church for awhile. He was going to fast for another family too, but felt like he should just for Jose Granados. Low and behold, Jose came to church and was able to bless the sacrament for the first. Braxton thought the day was great.

They had zone conferences on Thursday and as always they were amazing. They talked a lot about commitment. (which is obligating yourself to fulfill a action and follow forward diligently with that decision... from preach my gospel) Braxton said it really is time that we start committing ourselves to do something. Something without being told to do it. The church would grow so fast and so would we. Some times we don't act on things unless we are told. We need to take the extra step and do things on our own so the leaders don't have to waste so much of their time telling us what we should already be doing. We could all then learn more of the things that would make us even happier. ("just grow up a little and take upon the responsibilities we have as members of the Church")

Braxton also sends his love to all!

sombrero

2009-09-28T15:47:00.001-07:00

time is flying

2009-09-28T15:20:00.000-07:00

Things are still going good for Braxton. This week he had a neat experience with the Book of Mormon where the spirit penetrated his heart. It was a really neat experience for him. Then after that great experience they watched the video of physical evidence about the Book of Mormon being true called "journey of faith". Braxton said it was cool and his testimony was strengthened more by the spirit.

Braxton just loves the church!

Braxton had been talking to a really smart Jehovah witness this week and is so glad for his testimony so that he wasn't caught up in the "craftiness" of man (or satan). He absolutely knows our church is true!

Would love Letters!

2009-09-21T13:00:00.000-07:00

Braxton would love hearing from you, so drop him a line or two. :)

Braxton was able to spend some time with his zone leader this week and had a good time. They cooked good food (hamburgers and pasta), played games, got some sweet deals (Brax got a sweater for $7) and taught some people.

Braxton lost his knife that he got a year ago and wasn't happy with that at all. It kind of ticked him off. But, oh well "life goes on."

They were teaching a lady this week and saying everything very clearly to her. They constantly were explaining things over for her to make sure that she was understanding. Right before they started explaining the Restoration they asked her "so how does God put an end to the apostasy?....by calling what?" (correct answer being: a prophet, or someone to guide us) Her answer was "little birds". (that cracks me up! ha, ha) Braxton was wondering where in the crap did she get that idea. His zone leader had to put a pamphlet in front of his face because he was laughing. (I thought Braxton and the other missionary would just look at each other and bust up) Brax said she was a good lady though. (I'll be the one to say it then....she's a little off her rocker)

Brax found a family last week. A mom and two daughters. The dad usually doesn't allow anyone in their house to talk with them. It made Braxton a little nervous but the mother told him it was okay. The lesson went really well and they scheduled another one. That went great too and on the third lesson the father walked in. Braxton was sure they were in for it, but the dad just sat and listened. The father was fine with everything and even told the missionaries they could come back any time they wanted. (whew, Braxton was relieved)

Braxton gets a lot of girls yelling out "hey, boyfriend" and whistling at him but this week things went to far. Him and his zone leader where riding on a bus and a few girls got on and one dropped a bag of chips right by Braxton and slowly bent down to pick them up. (Brax looked away) The girls were sitting a few rows behind them and then moved up so they were sitting by them. The girl dropped her phone across the aisle, not once but twice. (crazy girl) Then Brax and his comp decided to go to sleep for awhile (it was a long bus ride). When they woke up the girls were taking pictures of them. You'd think that was enough. But an hour later just before the girls were going to get off the bus they moved forward and then turned around so they were facing the missionaries and just stared at them. Braxton thought that was about the weirdest experience. Not one word was ever spoken. (I'm just glad our prayers are being heard and answered and that Brax is being protected. Yes, even from girls)

It was a good week though. They taught quite a bit and had good experiences while they did. Brax has a leadership meeting this week and even though he looses a day in the mission he likes hearing from his Mission President.

Braxton still loves being a missionary! He loves his family too! We love him too!

pics

2009-09-18T15:52:00.000-07:00

2009-09-14T17:07:00.000-07:00

A lot of things happened this week even though Braxton was only in his area from Thursday to Sunday. (they had changes and meetings) They took advantage of the time they had. A lady in the branch passed away and even though it was sad there were some neat things about it too. She had cancer and so she never made it to church, but she was so happy that her family could and that they can keep on going. She was glad to see that there was a church finally in Valle de Bravo. She was a great example to everyone and a wonderful lady.

The English classes are picking up and more people are starting to come. The missionaries always share a 15 minute message about the restoration after and Brax likes that everyone gets to hear at least that much.

For Family Home Evening this week they went for a walk with a family. (the parents weren't home so they couldn't have it at the house) They got really wet but on their walk they saw a bunch of deer and some zebra. They were fenced in but Braxton thought it was still cool. The family home evening went really well and the family invited a sister that isn't a member. It was neat.

At Church on Sunday there really are just a few members. A member that was suppose to give a talk didn't show up and so the Branch President said that Braxton would give the talk. Brax had about 5 minutes to prepare for it. Everything went really well. The spirit directed Braxton in what to say and he listened. He spoke for all but 5 minutes of the meeting. Braxton said it went by so fast and it was easy. (umm, maybe we should listen to the spirit more ourselves) It was a great experience for Braxton and it strengthened his testimony.

While riding on a bus with the window open, Braxton had fell asleep. Brax was awakened when the bus hit a branch making it break. (which caused a loud sound) It had been raining and so there was a lot of water on the branch and when it broke it landed on Braxton. All that really scared Braxton from his sleep and it made him jump. Everyone around him just starred at him like he was a weirdo. He didn't care though. He was just glad that they noticed the missionaries and will hopefully ask about them later.

All is good and things are going well. Braxton is enjoying his mission a ton and is still learning a lot. His prayers are with us every day. He signed this e-mail as the FAVORITE son, brother, brother in law, friend, uncle, and grandson. Oh, don't we love Elder Ropelato? (heck ya)

Pasta

2009-09-07T10:25:00.000-07:00

Another Camera Broke :(

2009-08-31T08:36:00.000-07:00

This week a sister missionary dropped Braxtons camera and broke it. His last camera was missing after an activity and the ward he was in got him another one. (I think the sister should do the same). This week Braxton tripped and fell on his face! (runs in the family(:)

The work is really going great. In this area the missionaries are focusing on the members. The members help them so much and love to refer them to others. It is kind of hard though because everyone lives so far apart and it takes a lot of time to meet with them. Braxton is enjoying the work though. They had a few more baptisms this week. (I think the 10 year old girls) They were baptized in the river and it was really cold. When they got in the water they started screaming. (that kind of drove the spirit away) One of the girls foot came up the first time and so they had to baptize her again. She really didn't want to do it again and so Braxton talked to her and then she let him baptize her again. He said she was fine right after he lifted her out of the river and that is was neat.

The branch is doing so good and the members just love the missionaries. They refer to them as their "angels" and that makes Braxton's heart happy! Braxton said if you want an easy spiritual experience go get the cd "Fishers of Men" and listen to it. It is of the Prophets talking and music is playing in the back ground. Braxton said it is just amazing!

Braxton says "HI TO EVERYONE!"

A Few Pictures

2009-08-27T07:21:00.001-07:00

Braxton e-mailed me a few pictures. So, of course I have to share them. :) I love how you can see what the country is like. (at least in the mountain area-beats the heck out of the city) Braxton has a bunch of trout in that net.This is a hammock in Braxtons bedroom. It looks high up there to me. :)Braxton with Norman. (have you seen City Slickers?) Braxton is so glad to be in this area. He loves the feel of the country. Brax really is a country boy! (and a dang cute one at that!)

Fun and Spiritual!

2009-08-24T06:30:00.000-07:00

Braxton and his comp found a scorpion in their house. They are little ugly things and poisonous. They took the stinger out of it so they could hold it. The package with the shoes is in the office so Brax will get that at the next meeting. The people in Mexico really care about the missionaries and many have offered to buy Brax new shoes. (at least four) Braxton just never expected them to be like that and it makes Braxton happy to know that he is loved and watched out for. (ya, me too!)

Braxton guaranteed me he is really focused on the work and is working hard, but he is human and did notice the most beautiful girl he's ever seen in his life. He said it wasn't a distraction, but he did notice. :)

The stake came on Sunday and called a new Branch President and they made Braxton his first counselor. Braxton was really glad because trying to do it all was really stressful.

The missionaries found three new families of the church this week. Braxton was really excited about that and said the way they are found are just plain miracles.

Braxton got to pull a van out of the mud with a John Deere Tractor on Sunday. Of course he was excited to do that. The family with the van was taking the missionaries to their meeting, but because the van got stuck they didn't make it to the meeting on time. The family invited Braxton and his comp to eat with them. When they were pulling in to the parking lot the cars were really close. Tania, the lady driving, asked Braxton to stick his head out of the window to make sure they could make it without hitting any cars. Braxton thought the window was down and threw his head quickly into it. He hit the window pretty hard but did think it was funny. (me too :D)

Jennifer is getting baptised on Saturday and Braxton is excited for that.
(getting ready for English Classes)

Meetings, Meetings, and more Meetings

2009-08-17T08:09:00.000-07:00

This week was full of meetings and hard on the missionaries. Braxton loves meeting with his mission President because he loves his president and thinks he is awesome but this week was hard. Braxton's area is so, so, so far away from everyone. Sometimes it takes 6 hours to get to a meeting. This week was full of them.

Sunday he went to Metepec for a meeting with the stake to teach them how to help the missionaries. They taught the members what the missionaries are doing and how they need help. After that meeting they met with the zone leaders. Braxton stayed there that night because on Monday they had a zone meeting. Then they went to the Federal District Center and did things from 9 in the morning until 9 at night. That night they went back to the Metepec, getting there around 11:30 pm and stayed the night there. Braxton woke up sick and didn't dare try to ride the bus 3 hours to get home. So they stayed longer. It was Thursday that Braxton and his comp finally made it back to their area. They were able to teach one lesson before they had to leave again to go to the Metepec for Zone Conference that was friday morning..

Braxton went on divisions with the zone leader and brought him to his area for interviews. They did the interview and go back to his house late. Saturday morning they had to go back to the Metepec for Braxton's comp. When they got home again they had to clean the house for Church and prepare their talks. They had Church on Sunday and then went back to Metepec again and that is where Braxton was when he sent his e-mail. He said he spent like 4 hours in his area this week is all. He said he did learn a ton but is really excited to get back to work this week.

Today for P-day Braxton went to the zoo. They went to a show at the zoo where people were dressed in animal costumes. Braxton was playing around and kicked one in the face. Braxton said it wasn't hard, he was just messing around. Everyone watching the show thought it was funny and worth the money they had to pay to get in. Braxton said it was fun! "The Church is so flipping True!" Elder Ropelato

Lots!

2009-08-10T19:14:00.001-07:00

Braxton loves his area so much and thinks it's just way awesome. It is far away from everything though and takes a lot of time to get to all the leadership meetings. Braxton thinks that is why the Lord is blessing them with such awesome members. Braxton said that he thinks everyone paid their tithing this week. They haven't been paying it because of inactivity but they are all jumping right back into being the best members ever!

The members there are all helping with the missionary work. Everyone wants to share the Gospel with their neighbors and because of that they are having so much success. It makes Braxton wonder what the heck is wrong with us. Seriously we just don't get involved in the missionary effort like they do in Mexico. If we did the Lord would bless this area just as much. He is just waiting for us to put forth some effort. Braxton said "members are too worried about their own well being and don't understand that if they unselfishly serve others they will be blessed." Braxton also shared a quote he heard once. It is...The most selfish thing you can do for yourself is forgetting yourself and helping others. "THAT IS SO TRUE."

The missionaries were able to confirm Jose yesterday. (he was baptized on Thursday) They have 2 more baptisms lined up for this Sunday. ("they are just awesome, humble people.") Braxton just "freaking" loves the work there. He says he flat out can't explain it, but it is truly awesome. There are also two 10 year old girls that are waiting for a baptismal date. The work is just extraordinary there. There are so many miracles happening all the time. Another new family came to church yesterday, and they even gave the missionaries a referral, which is just so neat. Braxton said "the Lord has just prepared all these people and they have people for us to teach. They have just been waiting patiently for the missionaries to come."

Braxton hauled 544 bales of hay, in a wheel barrel, up a muddy hill, while wearing missionary clothes. First though he jumped into a John Deere tractor to get it out of the way. (he thought that was so awesome. He loves tractors) When he pulled out his planner today there was hay in it. (oh, happy days)

Braxton had some guy in the street shine his shoes. He said the guy did a really good job and he also admitted that it tickled his feet a little. :) It was cool though.

Today while the missionaries were riding in a bus they had the crap scared out of them. (not really, but almost) There were 20 missionaries on it and Braxton thinks that's why the bus didn't roll. They were on 2 wheels, twice! The driver just kept going like it was nothing. At first he tried slamming on his brakes but he still would have slammed into the car in front of him so he chose to swerve hard and in the process hit a speed bump. ( A*h*C*r*U*d*) Braxton never did think about his or the other missionaries well beings. He was focusing on two mothers with four children under the age of four that were sitting next to him. That scared Braxton the most. Everything turned out fine though and everyone was okay.

He loves us all and loves the Lord. He is working so hard and said that we will all know that when we see how smokin hot and awesome his life will be. (he really just wants a pretty wife.(:)

Thing are Great!

2009-08-03T18:31:00.000-07:00

Thing are awesome in Valle de Bravo. This new branch will have it's first baptism on Thursday. They are planning on having a few more later. There were 20-25 people at Church this week. It was testimony meeting and it was just way, way, way awesome. (as Brax put it) Braxton's companion taught a class for the members on tithing. Braxton taught the investigators the plan of salvation. It was a great day and way cool. (again from the mouth of Brax)Valle de Bravo has a prayer house. (church) The missionaries live in the prayer house too. There are 3 bathrooms and four bedrooms and it's a cabin. It's awesome and one bathroom even has a jetted tub. (which the missionaries found out doesn't need very much soap to get bubbles)All is way sweet and Braxton loves it. Even though so much is happening, Braxton can't quite find the words, or doesn't know what to share for sure. Braxton received the first tithing slip yesterday! (sweet beans)The Church is True!

Miracles and More Miracles

2009-07-27T16:16:00.000-07:00

(they travel 2 hours every week for meetings. Braxton is looking a bit tired)

Braxton said he has a hard time remembering and explaining all the wonderful experiences that he is having. He did say "it is just awesome!"

It was really cold and hailing yesterday and Braxton could see his breath. (who would have thought that would happen in Mexico City?) But he wasn't really complaining, just saying. He thinks it is beautiful!

He had fresh Trout this week. (oh, that he caught)

For Church this week there were 23. (woot, woot!) Nine of those were investigators. Still no building or place for church so they all crammed into the missionaries little room. (still not complaining, just saying)

Braxton said that he is seeing so many miracles in this new area and that it is just crazy awesome. Him and the branch are going to make a book of the church there in Valle de Bravo. Brax says it will be awesome, and I have no doubt it will be.

(I'm thinking he must really be busy because that was it for this week. I'm not complaining either, just saying. (:)

(Braxton is needing some new shoes. He must be working hard)

This is just in someone's house. Interesting!

All is Good

2009-07-20T08:33:00.000-07:00

Braxton didn't remember much of what happened this week. He said it went really fast. They are teaching a lot of people though and staying very busy. They found 11 new investigators this week and taught the restoration 15 times. Things are going good though.

It was just Braxton and his comp for church this week. (I'm betting it wasn't a very long meeting) They still haven't found a place to hold church but hoping this week they will find some place. They are hoping for some baptisms soon so they can get their branch going. He's learning more about patience through this though.

He went to a waterfall today for their p-day and said that was really cool. However, the batteries to his and his comp's camera died. (so I guess, no pictures) The missionaries get to go to the Temple tomorrow and he is excited for that.

He absolutely loves his new area. He says it is gorgeous and a great place to visit.

pinas a las ocho

2009-07-13T19:26:00.000-07:00

Braxton is in Valle de Bravo. Him and his comp are the first missionaries to ever preach the Gospel there. They have been chosen to set the foundation for Valle De Bravo. Braxton thinks that is really neat but said it is really hard too. They are looking for a prayer house. (church building) Yesterday, Braxton experienced the best sacrament meeting of his life. He knows it's because he prepared himself so much spiritually and prayed a lot for help. There was only Braxton and his comp and a family of 5. The family isn't even from Valle de Bravo. They live in the North Mission, but they have a time share there and found the missionaries. They only come one week every year and this was there week. They held the meeting in the missionaries home, which is TINY! They sat on the beds facing each other. The father is one of the counselors to the Stake President where he lives. (Jordan Bowden from the 5th ward is in his mission). Braxton said he really didn't learn anything from the talk his comp gave but was filled with the spirit and realized how true the church is. It doesn't matter where you have a church meeting as long as you do all you can do. "It was amazing." Braxton said he knew the Lord knew that I would need some help and so he sent this wonderful family.

In the two days that they have been working in this new area they have taught the restoration 13 times and a few other lessons too. They have about 7 investigators right now too. It makes Braxton so excited to see so many people interested in listening to the great message the missionaries have to share.

Braxton just loves the work and wished he could describe his feeling better but can't find the right words to describe it. His new area is beautiful. It's a tourist attraction and is in the mountains with trees and rivers everywhere. The houses look like little village houses. He absolutely loves it!

Braxton's comp is Elder Flores. His parents are mission presidents in Chiuahua, Mexico, but are originally from Puebla. Braxton is training Elder Flores because he just barely got out there. Braxton says "I Love the Mish, it's the Best!" "I've learned a lot about how True it all is."

He signed out as......a struggling missionary in Mexico.
he also added this ps......without struggles you can't grow. You should be proud your missionary is struggling. (I thought that was exactly right, and what a great attitude!)

New Area

2009-07-09T07:00:00.001-07:00

I'm not going to tell much of Braxton's e-mail this week. I will say that he has been tranfered to a new area (Valle de Bravo) and is a bit nervous with the responsiblities he will have. He is excited though and asked us to keep him in our prayers.

Not Much This Week

2009-06-29T21:18:00.000-07:00

Braxton didn't have much to say this week. He had just played soccer with their zone and he said he was "pooped." He also added that the Americans won the Mexicans. :)

He loves his new area. It gets kind of cold (they need sweaters). Braxton thinks it's because they are in the mountains. But it doesn't really bother him, he's enjoying it. Braxton thinks they should have a baptism this week and more this change.

He is drinking a drink made from water, hay leaves, alfalfa, and sugar. He said it's "pretty good."

That's about it for this week. He said "I hope you know how much I love you. Take Care!"

Pictures from Brax

2009-06-24T14:12:00.000-07:00

I'm Home!

2009-06-23T06:56:00.001-07:00

Braxton absolutely LOVES his new area! (this is only his third) It is like being home. He's in the middle of nowhere. He says it's the most beautiful place he's ever seen. There are farms, tractors, horses, sheep, cows, and everything else he could want in a mission. They even have pyramids there. He already just loves his new area. His area is HUGE and there are 26 villages in his area which will make it hard to get people to come to church. The church is far away from a lot of the people. He said it would be like us having to drive past Salt Lake to get to church.

His companion is really good. His comp is Elder Cabrales and he is from Tampico. Brax said that his comp is a great teacher and this is his last change before going home. Brax said that his comp is also a little worn out from the mission so Braxton is the senior companion. Braxton said that basically he just wants to motivate him and then learn from him.

Braxton has already messed his bike up. They were riding down a cement hill that had speed bumps and Braxton had forgot about those speed bumps until it was too late. His brakes didn't work and he was really going fast and just hit it hard. He bent the rim on the tire and the tube just exploded. He said "luckily I didn't fall, cause basically if I did I would be in Utah in a hospital or dead." (yikers, I'm glad he stayed on too) He said everything is good though and mission bikes suck. The very first day he got to his new area the missionaries were riding in the rain and Braxton's handle bars came undone and he almost fell. His bike also has automatic gear shifts. It will just change gears on it's own when it wants. He said that he doesn't have a pedal on the left side either and so it really stinks. With the bike problems they have been using the bus system more than they should be and Braxton is worried because he doesn't have extra money for that. But, oh well he says "all is well."

Braxton said he is getting fat again because they do a lot of home style cooking here. (he's only been there a week, and he can already tell he is getting fat? oh, no)

"I love you all. I love the work. I love the Lord. Take Care and do all the things that need to be done at home to grow and prosper." "Take care, your son, brother, and friend in Mexico."
Elder Ropelato

forget the city, I'm going to Atlatlahuaca

2009-06-15T16:55:00.000-07:00

Braxton was transferred today and even though he expected it he said it was really hard. He has gotten to know so many people in this area and has really grown to love them. Braxton said it was harder saying good-bye to them than it was when he left home. He said at least when he left home he knew he'd see all of us again. He doesn't know if that will happen with these people.

Braxton also said..."I'd like to think I will be able to come back after the mish, but who knows with money, time, school, my wife and 12 kids. (hahaha)"

They had four baptisms on Saturday and it was great! Braxton said he loves all four of them and they will all be great members. In fact they are already great members.

From the mouth of Brax "The Church is so flipping true. I never expected to get this far spiritually in my mission. I am receiving more than I could ever ask for. I'm sorry but I flat out don't have words for it all. As much as I hate the city, I LOVE it here. (which says a lot for anyone who knows me)

Braxton has been drinking tap water and since he hasn't gotten sick, he decided to share that with us now. (;) funny kid)

One of the ties he bought for 50 cents had porn inside the back of it. Braxton didn't know it until he was at a zone meeting. He burned it after. (he said that was a good thing since he didn't burn one at the 6 month mark) He also sent pics, but just of the face. (woooo) burn, baby burn!

"Anyway, I'm doing great. The Lord is using me to do His work and I'm lovin it."

"I love you all a lot! A Whole Lot!"

(future missionaries)

Drugs Legal?

2009-06-08T16:21:00.000-07:00

Braxton was talking to his buddy Cosme. Cosme is a taxi driver that needs to get divorced, married and then baptized. Cosme was telling Braxton how someone had left some cocaine in his car. He then told Braxton that marijuana is legal to use in Mexico and they are going to make it legal to use cocaine too. "Ridiculous, I know." Cosme's wife (if they would get married) got rid of Braxton's in grown toenail. Brax said it hurt really bad, but is feeling great now.

Braxton taught a great little family of three on Saturday. (it consists of a 8 year old, a 13 year old and a mom) The family came to church on Sunday (they've been before). Braxton and his comp had a sweet family home evening with them yesterday (Sunday) and they all agreed to get baptized this Saturday. "Cool beans, huh?" They all received answers to their prayers the first day. "The power of promising answers is so awesome." "The church is so flipping true!"

"I am still learning a ton all the time. I love being here in the mission. It's the greatest! It's fun, but it is way hard. It's not comparable to anything else I have ever experienced."

"Love you all!"

PS "I am always thinking about our neighbor who would get upset when I would drive the tractor in the field at 10:00 pm. Here there are diesels with their engine brakes, car alarms, horns, barking dogs, police sirens, parties with loud music every night and all night long. Ummm, maybe I should bring him over here some day so that he will be thankful for what he has." hahahaha ("I was just thinking about it.") Wow, we are so blessed!

Not Much of Anything

2009-06-01T18:21:00.001-07:00

Braxton said that not a whole lot happened this week. They did have zone conferences which he thinks are always sweet. The zone played soccer and had a good time.

Braxton lost his camera at a baptism and so the ward is buying him a new one. They really like Brax and take good care of him. They always treat the missionaries so well. They don't have a lot of money, but they still give so much.

Braxton learned about forgiveness and patience this week. It was with a member. Braxton said he learned his lesson and won't make the same mistake again. He says it's all good now though.

Braxton spoke in Church yesterday and said it went really well.

Braxton did learn how to wink both eyes. That is one at a time, but can do it with both.

Brax said "all is super duper dandy, and I love the mission." "It's going way fast. :(" He says "Hi" to everyone and that all is well.

Another Earth Quake....5.9

2009-05-26T07:06:00.000-07:00

SO there was another Earth Quake in Mexico last week. This time Braxton felt it and he said it scared the crap out of him. He had been knocking on doors and was let in and were talking to the people when it happened. He said it felt like it lasted forever, even though it was really only about 40 seconds. Braxton said the tables, chairs, plants, lights and even the walls were shaking. Braxton thought it was rather scary, but did say that all is well and nothing happened.

Braxton said he has really learned a lot this week and that is was great. He told us that when he got to the mission that his mission was well know throughout Mexico for being the worst, disobedienat, and less successful mission. But, things have changed and it is basically the best now. Braxton really loves his mission. He said it is amazing to see how much his mission has grown together. He said there is so much unity between the whole mission and they are all together on how and what they teach. Braxton said "it's just super sweet!"

It's starting to rain a little and the missionaries are grateful for that because it cools things down a bit. Braxton said they were talking to a family on Friday that they had baptized a while ago. They were talking about the Book of Mormon and the family was convinced that the Church was true but the mom said she hadn't gotten an answer about Joseph Smith or the Book of Mormon. Just a few days earlier they had been working with their District Leader. Braxton said that he has always promised answers but never for a specific day. The District Leader told the missionaries that they had the power to promise answers for the same night that they pray. That really hit Braxton hard and he thought a lot about it. Anyway, so when he was talking to that lady he promised her that she would get an answer that night. It happened and Braxton said it was really cool. Until that promise was made she hadn't gotten an answer but after it was made she did. This experience helped Braxton understand the power of his calling even more.

They had another baptism (I think on Sunday) and they didn't have very much water for the baptism. So, they did they baptism on their knees and the kid that was getting baptized had to lay completely flat on the floor to be completely under the water. It was a neat experience. He was the last of his family to make the decision to be baptized. Now they just need to do the temple work for the dad. Braxton just loves watching the gospel bless families!

Sad but true...."so yesterday I saw a few people living in old abandoned cars which was really sad, here in the city just isn't the best place to live, in my opinion anyway."

"Being a Missionary Rocks!"

Love, Elder Ropelato

Back to Normal

2009-05-19T07:43:00.000-07:00

The First Presidency said that the missionaries can work like normal again. They don't have to wear masks anymore and they can wear their ties again. They promised them that they would be fine.

Braxton has had a lot happen and promises to explain it all when he gets home. The things he did share are: They had a baptism of Fernando Camacho this week and Fernando was thrilled about it. They had the baptism with some members and so one of the members stayed in the water and baptized Fernando. Braxton said it was really neat!

The Elders are back to teaching English and Braxton really enjoys that and says it is really fun. (another reason to study hard in school, who knows you may be teaching someday without planning on it) They had a guy come in Saturday who's intestine was half in and half out. He doesn't have the money to have it fixed so that is how it will be. Braxton said he thought that was really gross and sad.

Braxton has one investigator that he loves to death. The investigator has been really stubborn and always made fun of his family that are members in Veracruz. He had learned things from his family but said the missionaries were "his little angels" because they were the ones that were able to touch his heart. Braxton loves being God's tool, and watching the spirit work through him. This guy is dropping everything without delay. He quit smoking cold turkey and even got really sick because his body wanted the nicotine. The guy said he would rather die than smoke again and give in to his addictions. He also said that nothing is as important as God and his family now and that is why he is doing everything without questioning. Braxton said that they do need to get him divorced from his first marriage and get him married to the lady he has been with for the last 15 years. Braxton just loves this investigator and things he is so awesome.

Braxton mentioned that he had heard of a really good book. It is called Day of Defense. So I guess I'll look for it because he would like to read it when he gets home.

Braxton ends with: "I love you all a ton and I'm working hard."

hALf WaY!!!

2009-05-14T05:39:00.000-07:00

WOOT, WOOT! Braxton as been serving on his Mission in Mexico City for a Year! Before we know it he'll be home giving us all hugs again! Very good thought and HaPpY dAy!

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-11T16:11:00.000-07:00

Well we were able to call and talk to Braxton on Mother's Day and that was wonderful! Braxton is doing great. He does have a hard time speaking English now and has to think of the right words. He speaks English now with a Spanish accent. I didn't realize it was him when I called. LOL :oD

This week the missionaries and I guess ward members were told not to wear their ties. If you think about why it makes sense. Ties have so many germs, everyone touches them and they seldom if ever get washed. They are taking that precaution for the swine flu. He didn't seem too concerned about the flu. His mind was on teaching and baptizing, which they are doing a lot of. He has more baptisms this week. :) We talked about how he would have been if he would have gone to Italy. It was decided by him that God knows Braxton wouldn't have been able to handle the no baptisms and hard work. That's why he's in Mexico. (ummm, God really does know us better than we know ourselves)

Braxton and his comp are being really conservative this month. They have to be because his comp spent all his $$$ on a new camera. (he must have really needed one(;) They can't afford TP so the newspaper is covering for them. (hee, hee, wonder what it's leaving behind on their behinds.) Braxton wasn't complaining, just saying. He loves his mission and all that he has learned. Everyone really enjoyed talking to Braxton.

We love you Braxton!!!

What A Week!

2009-05-05T11:41:00.000-07:00

On Sunday Braxton got really sick. He said it was so bad it put him in tears. He couldn't move without pain and didn't have energy at all to move. At one point he couldn't move his hand because it had locked up like it would with a cramp but there wasn't any pain. The family that he was with wanted to call an ambulance, but Braxton told them to call the Bishop first. The Bishop went right over and gave him a blessing. He said he felt a million times better right away. Everyone was still scared though because he still didn't look like himself. (in fact, he said "terrible") The missionaries were going to stay overnight at the Bishops house but Braxton started feeling better and so he was taken home and everything has been fine. He said it feels fine now so not to worry.

He learned a ton this week from staying home and studying. He said "I realize the work wasn't put on hold it was just a needed pit stop that I needed in my mission to learn some things that will help me accomplish more faster." He said he learned a ton from the book of mormon and a lot about prayer. He also said he learned how to learn and grow when the normal help of Church Meetings, and mission work wasn't there. He thought it was amazing and liked the time that he had for reflection. (mentioned that's why he likes hunting so much, the reflecting and quiet that comes with it)

The missionaries had a baptism on Saturday and Braxton said the "spirit" was really strong and so powerful. They couldn't have any members there because of the Flu going around, but the Bishop was there and it was such an awesome night. The baptism was of Juan Alvarez, a guy who had smoked three packs of cigarettes every two days for 55 years. Ahhh, it's all so tru"I'm doing my part, so don't worry." "I'm glad that Christ is on my side."

Braxton congratulated Trichelle and Joe on their marriage but was just a little disappointed they didn't have it at Kamp Kaboom.

also PS pray for Paul Hancock (one of Braxton's friends serving a mission). He is in the Hospital and has diabetes, but his attitude is good.

Love You all a Ton.......Elder Ropelato

Fetchin Influenza

2009-04-27T07:03:00.000-07:00

Braxton wrote Sunday Morning from a members house because they just got the worse news ever, he can't leave the house for the whole week. They are wearing doctor masks 24-7 and have to eat a ton of lime...straight....all because of the influenza. 86 people have died already and there's no cure for this flu. He reassures us that he doesn't mean to scare us, just informing us. :) They just need to take all precaution. They have to clean their house every day and stuff like that. "Don't worry, I'll be fine."

Braxton has two baptisms today and will leave for those but has to return to the house as soon as they are over. The government has cancelled all religious services, and school, and even the professional soccer games will be played with no spectators. Again he said "know that I'll be okay, and prayers are always appreciated."

As far as missionary work goes they are baptizing an awesome lady and her son. They were golden investigators. They just accepted everything and the second lesson they wanted to be baptized. (love that when that happens)

Oh, and some druggie came up to Braxton and asked him for money, his watch, and his pen. "Why he wanted my pen who knows." Braxton tried giving him money but he wanted more than Braxton gave him. Then he told Braxton to give him is watch and Braxton told him NO because he needed it. The guy again said "give it to me or I'll take it from you." Braxton wouldn't give in so the guy started leaving. But soon after the druggie turned and started chasing Braxton and told him that he would follow him until he gave him what he wanted. Braxton's comp had ran off and got a guy that they had just baptized last week who was working in the tiangis, the street market. He came and told the druggie off and later his son went and found the druggie and told him to leave the missionaries alone. So, all went well and nothing happened. The next day Braxton and his comp saw the same druggie and the guy just said "hi" and left them alone. (missions are exciting!)

A funny and kind of gross story from the Braxter. "So today we go to eat and the food was good. It was a lot, but not more than normal. Anyway, I ate way fast and didn't feel good at all. I went to the bathroom and couldn't drop anything (that's my boy(;) so we said bye and when I walked out the door I threw up a TON. I felt so, so, so good after. It was amazing had bad I felt, then how quick it all changed." (gotta love this kid)

Well that's about all for this week. Braxton says "all is well and I'm doing great!" He is bummed that they won't be able to go out and teach this week. He said it'll be okay though and he's going to try to read the Book of Mormon again.

"Love you all and take care, and don't worry. Doubt is the opposite of faith." "Once again, I love the crap out of all of you." "Talk to you in a few weeks." (hooray for Mothers Day!)

Doing Great!

2009-04-21T09:56:00.000-07:00

Braxton celebrated his birthday with 3 different families. Everyone likes him so much. I put the pictures on his birthday post. Looks like he had a lot of fun. He said that at the second party and little girl named Carol,who is like 10, won 80 pecos from a slot machine at the store by her house. Braxton just thought that was funny. (how old do you have to be to gamble? at least 10 I guess) Carol also was going to make chocolate covered bananas but when she was melting the chocolate she also melted the bowl. Braxton's comp thought he'd have some of it anyway, and by the time Braxton was blowing out his candles his comp was throwing up from toxic poison. Just another little lesson learned. They also made sopes with the family, and Braxton said they are delicious.On Saturday they were able to baptize four people and he said there should be more this week. Braxton said "things are straight up and sweet." He did say that one of the ladies he baptized was terrified of water and she had to be baptized three times. He said they had to baptize her face first. I'm thinking that was the final time. The first time her foot came up and the second time her elbow and so Braxton said he pushed her down really hard the third time. His arm was red from her grabbing on so tight. (poor thing) (The things you have to go through sometimes.)

Braxton loves his mission so "flippin" much. Oh, and remember the police horses, well he has pictures. (I think that made his day)

Oh, and just a little tid bit of info about Mexico. There are so many cars that they are building roads above the other ones now to try to accommodate them all.

Braxton is being obedient! That's the only advice his dad gave him and he said that has kept him from doing some crazy things.

Braxton's Birthday!

2009-04-14T08:39:00.001-07:00

Today is Braxton's Birthday and he said he didn't get a card or birthday wish from anyone except his dad. I sent him a Birthday Package, and his Aunt sent him one too and so I guess that's all. If you read this and are feeling bad, then write him a little Birthday Wish. (go to dearelder.com, it's free and fast and easy)

Happy Birthday Braxton!!! We All Do Really Love You!!!

He had a few celebrations in Mexico!

I Still Got It

2009-04-13T19:09:00.000-07:00

"This week has been sweet. We put like ten baptism dates and things are looking beautiful!" "It's been really cool. I'll tell you the names after they are baptized."

Braxton and his companion got on a trampoline the other night and Braxton said "believe or not, I still got it." He was able to flip and do all the tricks he could when he was younger and lighter. He did confess that his back hurt afterwards and he thinks it might be from the extra weight he is carrying. (I think it might be from not warming up) He loved it and thought it was fun though.

His comp got a "Dear John". He was really down and it really slowed the work down. (see why you shouldn't have girlfriends?) Brax said that things got a little better each day though. "Easter is........well........they have a Holy Week, and this is when they don't eat meat. They have a play of the day Christ was crucified, and that's about it."

Sunday Braxton celebrated his birthday with the Zamudio Family. He said it was sweet. The family put one of our family pictures in a frame and gave it to him so we could all be there with him. (ohhhh) They also gave him a mask, a tie and a cake. (like he needs another mask) He loved it and they even let him take the car for a spin. He will be celebrating his birthday, on his birthday, with the Cruz Soto Family. "All is good, I feel great, I'm working hard, and I'm Happy!"

1000000 degrees here!

2009-04-06T16:50:00.000-07:00

"So yeah, Conference was just awesome once again. I love Conference, but the Spanish session cut out after the second talk and would only work in English and there are only 4 white Elders in the Zone. I've been here the longest so they had me translate at the pulpit and it was the first time in my mission I spoke perfect Spanish without stuttering or pausing. I was using words I didn't even know I knew. It was just the most amazing thing ever. I can't explain how it all worked other than earlier this week was April Fools day and I didn't get to play any jokes on you, so there it is." "The session worked fine and I didn't translate a word. Ha, ha, ha."

Braxton said he really did love the Conference.

The longer he is in Mexico the more he finds out how corrupt it really is. He saw a really bad protest with some college students and the police. One of the police officers told Braxton that the only way to make a living as a cop is to let people pay you off. (Braxton-"hmmmm, I wonder why there are so many bad people in the streets still.")

In Iztapalapa (where Daniels family is from) they have a theatre where they reenact the last week of Christs life. Someone plays Christ and they are really beat and then they are nailed to a cross. After the play that actor is rushed to the Hospital. (it's all voluntary too) It's just wicked and wrong! But, that's the life in Mexico, the real life.

It is really hot in Mexico right now. The paper said it was hotter than Cancun, Mexico.

Braxton was asked out on a date by a girl that was even cute. He thought at first she was just inviting them to dinner, but then she started talking about the whole day. Spending time together to go ice skating or to six flags and she was even going to invite one of her friends. That's when Braxton realized she was asking them on a date. The sad part is that she is a member and should know better. Braxton said "don't worry I told her know and thought it was ridiculous."

Braxton was wondering how our dinner at LaFerrovia was because he said he didn't eat on Saturday!

Oh and ps.... "I need tide pens for my ties and shirts after I eat." Same ol' Brax!

Ropilonjas

2009-03-31T07:31:00.000-07:00

This week Braxton was on line the same time Trichelle and Kevin were and so they were able to chat a bit. Brax challenged them to read the Book of Mormon. Trichelle said she would and Brax even passed the challenge to Joe. I guess he said no, but thought it was great that Braxton is doing his missionary job. Braxton is also starting the Book of Mormon again. So if any one else wants to take the challenge, go for it!

Braxton got a new comp and he had a lot of stuff to share, but chose not too. He decided if you can't say anything good, don't say nothing at all. (I added that, he probably really has some good things too.) He just let us know it will be challenging and that he will have to step it up and won't be able to always rely on his comp. He said he will just have to rely on the gift of tongues. Which he thinks is pretty sweet. Braxton will be good for the new comp too.

Braxton put his backpack down yesterday for just a few minutes and a dog decided to relieve himself on it. (Braxton is wondering why the heck there are so many dogs everywhere in Mexico?) So, he washed it but forgot to take everything out. He had 5 pretty good sized letters that he had written in it and so they were all washed and lost. He said "Oh well, sometimes crap happens, or should I say pee." :) Oh the challenges of the mission! :)

That's about all! He said everything was "super sweet and I love the Mish."
Which magazine is your favorite? (these our the pics I found on facebook-glad the missionaries have a little fun on p-days)

Braxton sleep talks in Spanish!

2009-03-24T08:52:00.000-07:00

I didn't even know that Braxton talked in his sleep, but I guess he does and it's in Spanish now. His comp caught him a few times this week. I guess he's got the language down now if he's dreaming in Spanish.

Braxton convinced a 14 year old girl that his watch was in English and their clocks are in Spanish. After convincing her that, they really had a hard time making her believe that time was universal. He said it took like 20 minutes for her to really believe that. Braxton and her family laughed so hard. (kind of reminds me of some people I know-maybe even related too)

Saturday Emma Luna was baptized. She is 79 years old and everything went well.

Braxton is still working with Jaun Alvarez. Jaun's baptism is set for May 2. (Juan's birthday) Juan is trying to quit smoking. He is doing good and has cut down a lot. Braxton believes he will be ready. The work is going good.

Braxton is feeling good about more success in the weeks to come. He got a new Comp this change. His new comp is Elder Salazar and Braxton will actually meet him today, March 24. So, I guess that means that Braxton is staying in his area a bit longer. (I think that is fine with him, he hasn't said otherwise.)
Braxton makes us Smile :)

Mask Yourself

2009-03-24T08:42:00.000-07:00

Braxton has bought a few masks. He decided that is what he'd get all the boys in the family. I think we will have a few laughs with these. I know they are going to love them. I can only imagine the video's they'll make. Makes me smile just thinking about it. I'm thinking we won't need Halloween Costumes this year, just white shirts with name tags and a mask. :) Oh, and maybe a tie to go with that.

What's up Chuck?

2009-03-17T06:23:00.000-07:00

After Braxton had wrote his letter the power went out and he lost it. So there might have been more that happened than he wanted to write again.

Braxton started off with 3 Nephi 13:11 and forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors. (so, I'm wandering is Braxton spending more than he should be? If so I guess he won't have anything to start with when he gets home) He just said to keep that verse in mind.

Braxton is itching to ride a horse. There are policemen with horses and Braxton has been tempted to bribe them with $5 to let him ride it. So far he's been too scared to ask.

There was a storm that came and went. He said there was lightening, thunder, rain and hail, but there was also sunshine the whole time. (kind of weird)

They have had some good investigators. One guy had gone through like six sets of missionaries and after finishing the gospel principles class he has committed to baptism on his birthday. (May 2) Braxton hopes he is still there for it. Then Edgar a nineteen year old has set a date for Wednesday but he needs to be married first. Braxton said it's not a long process though and so things should work out. Also, Emma Luna has a baptismal date for Saturday and so hopefully they all go through and go well.

That's it for this week. He did add a few more pictures.this is his mattress-not to comfy looking huh?

no manches me veo bien chido

2009-03-11T07:17:00.000-07:00

This is the first part of Braxton's email this week as he put it.
"Whats up guys? This week has been good. nothing amazing has happened but I've learned so much. I think I've accepted the fact that whenever you are in life there is always more to learn and its impossible to catch up. Some people say the mission gets easier as you go. I completely disagree! Because the more I learn the more I understand how, despite my hard work I have to work harder. As I more fully understand what it is I'm actually doing there is more pressure, so it definitely isn't easier, but it is so much funner and rewarding."

Random tid bits for this week:

Braxton was trying to explain something to his comp this week and used the phrase "comida rapido", or fast food. His comp corrected him and said they all say fast food. Braxton was confused and still doesn't know when to translate or leave it. He still thought it was funny though.

They did a Family Home Evening with a family and Braxton decided to do something that our family does. To go around the family and each person shares something nice about that person. Braxton and his comp went first so the family would see what they meant but I guess the family bombed it. Almost everything they said was negative. Braxton wasn't quite sure how they didn't understand the rules and so they quit playing and moved on to eating pizza. He said the pizza was good but the activity was a failure.

Braxtons keys got locked in their apartment. (he said his comp locked them in) They just used their handy dandy cards the President gave them and slid it in the door and opened it. (safe place) (I think the cards were about Preach My Gospel condensed and laminated.)

A lady was selling chocolate to earn money to pay for school. Her sales pitch was "one for 15 pesos, two for 30 pesos." (well duh?) Braxton and his comp decided to go for the "better" deal and get two. They really laugh hard when she left.

Braxton had the hiccups the other night and could hardly talk. So one of the guys got up and walked behind him. Braxton thought he was going to get something, but instead he snuck up and scared the crap out of Braxton. Braxton had a glass of water in his hand trying to get rid of the hiccups and when he was scared he jumped and water splashed everywhere. He said it worked though. He didn't have the hiccups after that.

They were able to attend the Temple again and Braxton just loves it. He is looking forward to going every month with our family when he gets home.

He ended by saying "I love you all and everyone in Utah and Utah itself."

His pictures were mostly of his food creations and even of him cleaning up his mess. (oh ya, my training has come in handy-Brax does dishes and cooks)

Kind of a Slow Week

2009-03-02T15:25:00.000-08:00

Braxton said they didn't teach a whole lot this week. They had seven lessons within the first three, restoration, plan of salvation, and the gospel. (that's how he wrote it so figure it out the best you can, maybe it's just me) Then like three lessons of commandments, and then a few visits. The work is going good though and they have people who are getting close to baptism. The still need a little pushing, or teaching.

The other day a guy backed into car which pushed it back into another car and then he just left. Braxton says even though that could be like a $114 ticket it doesn't matter. Stuff like that happens all the time and no one gets caught.

They had a conference again last week. Braxton just loves them! Just when he thinks he knows everything the President will whip something new up that helps a ton in the mission. Braxton says that his President is funny too, but all his jokes makes you think and remember valuable truths. Definately called of God. Braxton said the mission has changed so much for the better. There are still lazy Elders, but just better ones than at the first of his mission.

The baptismal font was being drained one day and to drain it the water goes out a hose onto the front of the Church. A lady walked by and was furious that they were wasting water. She wouldn't listen to the Elders so they could explain. A few days later Braxton contacted her on the street and she said no she wouldn't listen because they were wasting water. She was ranting how so many people don't have water and just because the Church had money they thought they could waste it. She wouldn't listen.

Then yesterday on Sunday the family that they were suppose to eat with just gave them money instead. But, it was Sunday and so they didn't want to buy anything. Luckily they had bought bratwursts earlier that week. As they were walking home their Bishop pulls up next to them and sees they weren't at their dinner appointment and so he offers to buy them a pizza. Braxton doesn't get that??? (it reminds me of the chunky monkey ice cream)

Braxton said he learned a lot this week and that his mission will continue to get better. Here's some pictures he put on this week....

2009-02-24T07:23:00.000-08:00

Braxton's district leader is Elder King. Elder King's Aunt lives in Hooper. Her husband is Bishop Foster, and before he was Bishop he was our wards High Councilman. They had Kevin come to dinner and one of their family home evenings to talk about his mission to their family. (small world)

Braxton saw some really cool lightening the other day. He said it lit everything up for like 3 minutes. He thought it was crazy and cool.

While Braxton's comp was taking a picture of Braxton in front of their church and when he bent down he ripped his pants all the way up the seam. Ya, they took a taxi back to their apartment and got new ones. :)

Braxton has two baptismal dates right now and this weekend they found a couple of really good investigators. He is really hoping that things work out. They had an appointment with a lady named Lucia this week and when they went walked in her husband was standing against the counter. Now Braxton has seen that before and it isn't a good sign. He was thinking, oh great he isn't going to let her accept anything. But, it turned out that he was more interested than Lucia. He told the missionaries how he had took a nap and when he woke up he felt like he needed to do something. He wasn't sure what or how. He thought he might need to go to church and then that is when Braxton and his comp (Elder Rangel) knocked on his door. He thought the things they taught were great. He said he didn't know a lot of the things and he thought it was great that there is a Prophet today and was just excited with the things that he had learned. Braxton is praying that he will keep the faith now. Braxton said "normally we have to tell them that sometimes their traditions are false, but this guy brought it up that some of his families traditions and his wife's families might be wrong." He actually wants to go to church with the missionaries now.

This week there was a document on TV about Joseph Smith. However, it was sponsored by another sorce other than the Church. It seems like many people watched it and now they have false ideas and don't want anything to do with the missionaries.

Braxton taught the Gospel Principles class on Sunday. He said it was a first for him, but he got good comment back so it must of went well.

Braxton has also started exercising and so except for having a cold sore he looks good. (He then told his dad he could send the Pride talk if he wanted to)

(this is their weight set-bottles of water and a broom stick)

Braxton wanted to make sure that everyone knows that he loves you.

Still Smiling

2009-02-23T20:42:00.000-08:00

February 16, 2009

Braxton was transfered and has a new comp that he really likes. His area is Culturas and his comp is Elder Rangel. Him and Elder Rangel entered the mission the same day. Elder Rangel is 23 years old and likes to work hard. He is from Tampico Mexico (or somewhere near there). Braxton says the work is really different here. There are mostly appartment buildings and it's a lot easier to get lost. It frustrates Braxton and he'll yell and then they just laugh.

They had another baptism this week of a 12 year old girl named Karla. The font was cold because the boiler won't heat that much water. It will heat only 9 liters of water a minute.

(these are pictures of Karla and her family along with Elder Ropelato and Elder Rangel)

Braxton's church is a brand new Stake Center and very big and nice. The chairs on the stand are like theatre style.

Braxton has been a little sick this week. He said it wasn't too bad just a sore throat, headache and cough. It didn't stop them from working.

His house has a washer and dryer. He thinks that is sweet. His bed isn't sweet though. He can feel the springs through it. Oh well, he said it is doable.

New Area

2009-02-09T15:25:00.001-08:00

Braxton was right about the zone leaders taking over his area. Braxton is being transferred to Culturas (he thinks) with Elder Rangel. Braxton's comp is being transferred to the zone leaders area and Braxton feels like he (his comp) is being shafted. Oh well, you roll with the flow.

This week they were able baptize a way cool girl. Braxton said that when his comp had contacted this girl she didn't seem like someone who accept the Gospel. But, she did and it is really cool to see the changes she has made in her life. He is really glad she has the Gospel now so that she can continue to move forward and be happy.

Braxton is excited to go to a new area, but says that it is hard. He is moving from his first area where he has grown so close to people. People who have nothing, but give everything. ("it's a real eye opener!")

Peace Out Y'all

2009-02-02T14:41:00.000-08:00

That's how Braxton ended this weeks letter. "Peace Out Y'all." (I think he is feeling good.)

Braxton thinks the weeks are just flying by. They had a Conference with the President last week and he just thinks they are the coolest things ever. "I love them." "I am just blown away at how lucky I am to be a missionary." "Life has been so good, it scares me a little that is has been so easy and filled with blessings, and I'm scared that something crazy hard or terrible will happen." "I hope not." "As each day goes by I realize how blessed I am."

Braxton feels like he knows what a true missionary is now and how to do it. He said that his president is awesome and that he simplified the preach my gospel to fit on a card that they can refer too. It's really sweet and powerful. He said it makes the lessons so much clearer and spiritual.

Funny thing: Braxton contacted a girl that was like 28 years old and she said that she couldn't talk to the missionaries because she had a boyfriend. He thought that was hilarious, and wondered what the heck that had to do with talking to them.

Braxton thinks that Satan is a "fetcher". For Christmas, Braxton got some caramels in his package and had eaten them all long ago. Well, magically on Fast Sunday one just happened to appear in his pocket. He was strong though and threw it on the desk so that when he came home later that night it would be waiting. (he said he was such a man)

Braxton is pretty sure that this will be his last week in Ticoman. He said that him and his comp have been having a lot of success. In fact, better than the zone leaders. Maybe that's why the zone leaders are asking about how their (the missionaries)house is and how the area is and how many families are being taught. Braxton said they even came and worked with him and his comp the other day. Braxton thinks they are moving right in on his area and will probably baptize all the families they have been teaching. But he said "it's cool, as long as they are baptized."

Braxton was told that he looked 25. He has decided that it's because he has a ton of muscle, and he means a ton, and it is covered with a tiny bit of fat, thus making him look fat. (or just older)

The Days Blurr Together

2009-02-01T15:13:00.000-08:00

(this is a picture of Braxton's little hill, yeah haha, it's not so little)

Braxton said it is good that the days blurr together now. It means that time is going fast and all is well. He was thinking back when he first got to Mexico and how it was really hard. He had no friends, he couldn't talk to people (because he didn't know their language), and he was in a crazy, busy place with tons of people. (He wasn't loving it then.) He even thought that it was going to be a long two years. But, now he is settling in and loving it. Now his mission is more what he imagined it to be. He still misses the things back home, but he says things are great and the work is awesome!
(this is Brax showing someone about technology)

He loves going to the Temple and thinks it is just amazing. He was able to go this week and says that he learns so much every time he goes. "I'm always blown away with how perfect the Church is. It's so fetchin true!" He had a cool experience in the Celestial Room and was able to see his companion as his brother and felt a real love for him.

(this is Braxton in front of a train, and the only reason he isn't directly in front of it is because his camera was being slow and the train was coming at him fast)

He mentioned that he was going to go back to the Visitor Center with some investigators and thought that was going to be cool. He also said that there is a guy there that makes scripture cases, in fact cool ones, and so he was going to get some of those too. (I hope that is in his budget, and that he's not over spending)

Braxton said he loves us all a ton! So with that have a good day!

Today is Good

2009-01-20T08:52:00.000-08:00

Braxton said that this week was good. They had 8 new investigators and were able to teach them. They were able to reach their goals.

Braxton was eating at a ladies house and she needed more tortillas and so Braxton and her son went on bikes to a tortilleria (store for tortillas). He almost got hit by a few cars and then he said "I kind of crashed in front of 4 old people." But, he caught himself! He thinks that's probably why they don't have bikes in the mission. (I'm glad). Victor, the kid he was with got chased by dogs. "Great times."

The family Braxton is living with is moving to Utah to start a Mexican Restaurant. Braxton said that their food is really good and he eats it every morning.

It rained pretty hard the other day and the cars were having a hard time with all the water. Braxton was glad he wasn't in a car that day because it was pretty scary.

His comp was dancing in the street the other day and stepped on a dog.

Braxton is wearing his long pj's he got for Christmas and his socks every night because it is really cold. He can see his breath in the morning inside his house. He wasn't told to bring warm things so he wasn't prepared for the weather they are getting. "God knew though and fattened me up so I could handle the cold. Man, talk about blessing in disguise."

Sweet Week!

2009-01-13T07:20:00.000-08:00

Braxton had a really good week. He said he didn't know what they changed but things were awesome. They found 18 new investigators and taught 16 lessons. (which is a lot) They have an interview with Sonia Rojas who they have been teaching and she should be getting baptized. (I think he said on Friday) Now they are just going to try hard to get all these people to church on Sunday.

He had a Conference with his President and said it was cool. He loves conferences because they get him so pumped up.

Now for the funny things that don't really mean anything, unless of course you are a missionary.
primero...."I was on a bus and some guy just started talking loud and fast and it was a while before I realized he was talking to me. He was swearing and yelling white people this, your country that, blah, blah, blah about your religion and I just kept ignoring him. People would look at me like are you okay and I'd just smile and continue looking forward. Then when the guy got off the bus he said nos vemos (good bye) and everyone on the bus responded and was glad he got off. Oh, the blessings of being an American."

segundo...."we were on a hill the other day and three kids had flattened 2 litre pop bottles and would use them as a sled to slide down the cement roads. It was funny, and I really wanted to play with them, but decided I needed act mature."

tercero...."we had a drive by were some guys squirted us. I don't know why some people hate Americans so bad, and my poor comp has to go through it all with me. haha"

cuarto...."I spit off this high bridge and there was a lot of spit so as it went down fast it would expand out like a parachute. I was rather impressed with myself."

quinto...."oh this is good...as we were walking down a street a guy took his hat off and blew his nose in it. Yuck, how gross is that!"

"Everything is Super Duper Dandy here in Ticoman Mexico."

Still in Ticoman

2009-01-06T06:14:00.000-08:00

Braxton is still with Elder Herrera and they are having fun and working really hard. Elder Herrera had contacted a guy who is from California. I guess they were at the top of a hill (hill being an understatement). Braxton said it was amazing. It was the coolest lesson ever, everything made sense to the guy. He even said the prayer at the end and was so filled with the spirit that he was crying. Braxton thought that experience was awesome. The guy wants to read the Book of Mormon and start going to Church the first chance he get. "It's times like these that make being a missionary so worth it."

Someone told Braxton that he looked older than 19. Now that hasn't happened before! So, I guess Brax is all grown up now. At least that is what he said. (a day no one thought would ever come) hahahahahaha! (those are his words)

They should be having a baptism pretty soon. They have been teaching Sonia Rojas and not that things have settled down from the Holidays they will talk to her about a baptismal date. Braxton said she is a really neat lady who just wants to do her best.

Christmas and Transfers

2008-12-29T17:18:00.000-08:00

Braxton had a great Christmas. This is him and Elder Herrera Christmas morning in their pj's. Braxton said that there were transfers but him and his comp are staying put. He's glad and hopes that they will see some success this change.

They were able to go to the Temple and Braxton just loved it. He noticed that the Temple at toto toilets, which are like the best in the world. (can you tell he worked at Durk's plumbing? He notices toilets and plumbing now)

The other night a family asked him to bless the food in English and he had to stop and correct himself because he kept using Spanish. They all just laughed though.

Braxton thinks Mexico is cool. A dad and his boys were on the subway the other day playing their guitars and a whistle instrument. Braxton said it was cool and the kids were like 6 and 10. He enjoyed watching them and said the music was hard and they were really good.

On Christmas there were a lot of drunks that kept coming up to Braxton because they wanted to speak English and because he is white they went to him. He said it was a little scary, but not bad.

This is a volleyball team. I guess Braxton and the other missionary aren't playing since they are in their white dress shirts. *Braxton corrected me and said that he did play volleyball he just forgot to bring another shirt. :)

This is Braxton's gift to himself this Christmas. I wonder how he thinks he'll get that home? I'm sure he will find a way. Pretty cool though!

Merry Christmas and Talking to Braxton

2008-12-26T21:22:00.000-08:00

Braxton got his package and I threw in some Holiday Fun!

This is Braxton's tree and gifts. The blue gifts must be his comps. Braxton is sporting a festive holiday look. (love it!)

In Mexico they celebrate Christmas on the 24th, and then do something again the first part of January. So, on Christmas we were able to call Braxton at someones home and he was able to talk for as long as we wanted. We ended up talking for about 4 hours. The family was just playing and preparing things for their little girls birthday that was on Christmas.

Braxton still had a cold, but sounded great otherwise! He has adjusted well and is just working hard. He sounded so good. He was happy that he has received so many cards and letters. That really made his day! He loves letters!

Every time I went to talk to Braxton, Ivy wanted to talk. She understood Braxton when he spoke to her in Spanish. She answered him in English though. Ivy loves Uncle Braxton!

"Surprise!" Larry called Salina and told her we were talking to Braxton so she came over and said "Hello" too. My mom and dad stopped over too and talked to him a bit. Talking to our Missionary was the highlight of the day! It was a great day! We love you Elder Ropelato!

Merry Christmas

2008-12-23T07:28:00.000-08:00

Braxton received his Christmas Package! He said it looked like everything was in it. (oh, good) He told us the plan for Christmas, how and when we could talk to him. We will call him and can talk as long as we have calling cards. :) Oh, I can't wait!

Braxton has been sick again, but he reassured me it was only a cold and that he is fine.

The Elders are working hard. This week they didn't find new people, but still worked hard and hopefully planted some good seeds.

Braxton is looking forward to going to the Temple on Tuesday. It makes him realize how much we take things for granted. Because we are so blessed, sometimes we neglect the important things.

Braxton was sick this week! :(

2008-12-15T21:00:00.000-08:00

Not a lot happened this week as far as missionary work went. Braxton was down in bed wishing to die. He was really miserable from Tuesday to Saturday. He was suffering from a constant migrain which got worse when he stood up or sat up. And, because he was laying in bed so much his back started hurting too. And to top that off he was visiting the restroom very often. He also had a sore throat just to top it off.

On Wednesday he decided to walk four doors down to a neighbor who has a friend that is a Doctor. The Doc checked him out. (like all the girls do, says Braxton) After checking him out she went to the Hospital to get some supplies. She checked his temp and blood pressure and all that fun stuff. Then she got out the needles. (Yikes!) She put one in Braxton's hand to hold (I think) and then tries to find a vain. She had a hard time and got "good american blood" all over the couch. She finally puts it in the vein in the crook of his arm and about that time Braxton has a real need to visit the restroom. She told him to wait a minute while she taped it on him. (easy for her to say) So, as soon as she is done taping it up Braxton runs to the restroom. He's all hooked up without a free hand and so that causes a bit of a problem in the restroom. Thank goodness for Comps. His comp took the medicine from one hand so Braxton had a free hand. Whew!

Braxton started feeling better after putting two different medications in his arm directly in his blood stream. Now he just needs to take some pills for another 6 days. He still doesn't feel himself, but is improving.

While he was laying sick and complaining he had time to think about Christ and all the He went through for Braxton personally. He realized that he wasn't going through much at all and that he could suffer a little more for HIM! It was a real eye opener and a blessing!

Even going through all that Braxton say's "I still love being a missionary!"
(oh, and he is feeling a little smaller too. Dropped a few pounds.)

Feeling Good

2008-12-05T20:40:00.000-08:00

Braxton got a new comp a few weeks ago. He said he is pretty cool and they have some things in common like being the middle child, dads are Bishops, and they like to have fun. His family lives in the East Mission so it isn't far, but Braxton promised to be good and stay where he should.

Elder Ropelato has been working really hard teaching the people and hopes to see some great results in the next few weeks.

On Thanksgiving they had interviews with their President and meeting in the afternoon. He said the meeting really help him a lot. He had a cool experience about testimonies and how quickly Heavenly Father will bless you, even before you ask. Braxton had a neat experience this week with finding a family. They had a reference and the address was chiquihuite # 176. They were looking down a long road and some how found out the there are actually 5 roads with that name and the houses aren't numbered in order. The decided to walk back a different way after checking all the houses and they had another reference for nino jesus (the name of the street) so they decided to check it out. When they got there they could hear a lady tell the person who answered the door that she wasn't there. Braxton thought that was funny. Then they saw one house on chiquihuite that they hadn't seen and guess what number it was? If you guessed # 176 you are right. The lady was thrilled. She is a member but her husband isn't so the missionaries will start teaching him. Braxton is amazed at how the Lord guides a bunch of unintelligent 19 year olds in the biggest city in the world. He laughs and said "and you thought you were busy!"

Braxton had a drunk come up and shake his hand and then pass out right there on the sidewalk. Brax said he looked dead and then a little girl walked by holding her mothers hand and had the strangest look on her face. Braxton thought is was funny. :)

The people in Mexico think that Braxton is BEAUTIFUL! He doesn't care why they think it. It makes him feel good no matter what the reason is.

Braxton and his comp went to the Heart of the City and Braxton said "holy cow, there were a ton of people." His comp said that was the least amount he has ever seen in the center, but Braxton was blown away. He sure misses Hooper!

Braxton ran into some other white kids doing missionary work or pioneering as they called it. They were all about the Bible and after meeting them Braxton actually had one of his best study times yet. He realized just how much the Bible testifies of the Book of Mormon and the Restoration. It was awesome for him. His testimony is growing all the time and He LOVES BEING A MISSIONARY!

I'm filled with a little too much joy and don't know why

2008-12-02T07:51:00.000-08:00

Braxton loves hearing from everyone. He loves e-mails BUT would really love a letter from home. Either use the dearelder.com or just write one and fold it in 3's, tape it and mail it. (no envelopes) He has requested this MANY TIMES! So, if you are reading this go get out a pencil and write him a letter!

Elder Ropelato was teaching a 19 year old that he said was "Golden". The kids girlfriend had chased the missionaries down to teach him. Braxton was enjoying teaching him, but now the boy is moving to another area. Braxton says that happens a lot.

Braxton is working hard, having fun, and really wanting letters! Hey it's Christmas time-make his day and write him a letter!

Rededication of Mexico City Temple

2008-11-18T09:15:00.000-08:00

Elder Ropelato had a great week. On his p-day they were able to play football (even tackle) and he had a great time. He was plenty sore after but enjoyed it.

Braxton texted me on Saturday night to watch KBYU. It was about the Temple dedication and he thought he was on it. We weren't home but it was so fun getting a text from him. :) He said they had a big (huge) program ath the Aztec Stadium which is the 2nd biggest stadium in the World. Our dear Prophet came and sang a solo in Spanish and Braxton said you could feel the "spirit" so strong! Then at the end of the Program all the missionaries (Braxton said like a thousand) came out onto the stage and sang "Called to Serve". It was so cool he said and the "Spirit" was wonderful!

(this is Braxton's stake for the program)

The next Sunday was the best thoug. It was the Temple Dedication Broadcast and Braxton said

even though they weren't there it was just "WOW"! What a wonderful experience!

Braxton has been out on his mission for 6 months!

A funny thing that a lady said. While Braxton and Elder Cruz were teaching her she asked Braxton if he missed cute kids. Braxton told her that there were plenty of cute kids around. Then she said "no there isn't, look at my son and granddaughter, they are ugly." (and she was serious) Braxton thought it was funny. He said they weren't ugly, maybe not beautiful, but still cute! (he told us that not her)

Ivy's Grandparents

2008-11-10T16:46:00.000-08:00

This week Braxton saw both of Ivy's grandparents. Braxton was so excited. He saw them in the parking lot of the Temple. He went over to talk to them and they turned off the car, got out and gave him a hug. They talked and then they gave Braxton their phone number and said to call them if he ever needed anything. How cool for Braxton. Ivy's grandparents are really neat! It was really fun for Braxton to see them. Like I said in the last post he was hoping that some time during his mission he would. They don't live in the same mission, but with the Temple, he was able too.

(Elder Michael and Elder Ropelato)

He spent this week in the Temple parking lot. He was able to go inside too and again said how amazing it is. He was helping a lady in a wheel chair and almost dumped her when the wheel got caught. It scared him, but was really glad she didn't fall out.

He taught his companion what a raisin was. His comp had never heard of one before. Oh and Braxton met some guy that we met at the Senior Olympic, and he also met his cousin Jeff's mission president.

Braxton is doing good and knows how to iron, wash his clothes by hand, and even fold them. He does chores and studies his scriptures. (What a catch he will be)

Braxton saw Ivy's (his neice) Grandma

2008-11-10T16:29:00.001-08:00

Braxton has been at the Temple this week from like 6:30 in the morning until 9:30 at night. He said the Temple is really cool. He saw a few friends from High School there and some from the MTC. He said the Temple is kind of like the Ogden Temple as far as the lay out goes, it's just square and a lot bigger. And he saw Ivy's grandma who lives in Mexico. She was helping at the Temple too and when Braxton saw her he asked her if she was Daniel's mom. He was so excited, he really was hoping that some time in the two years he would get to see them. This is a picture of them together.

Some crazy things this week, or at least random things:
*He drove a truck in Mexico City, he was doing service and he said it made him feel cool.
*He saw a spider eat a fly.
*They shut the door for the first time at night because it was cold.
*He was asked if he wanted candy, and said "yes" and was given a cough drop.
*A parrot lives at their house. It's a members and bites Braxton's finger.

Braxton informed me again that Missionaries really do like letters! So if you are reading this feel free to write him. Use the dearelder.com it's free and easy. :)
The people are nice. They were teaching a lady the first lesson and even though she didn't want anything to do with it she gave the missionaries some really good bread and coffee. They told her they didn't drink coffee so she heated them up some milk.

Church goes over time on Fast Sundays. Everyone wants to share their testimonies and so there is always a long line. (how cool)

At a dinner the people had to tell Braxton to eat with his hands. I was so hoping he wouldn't be sent anywhere like that. He loves eating with his hands.

Elder Ropelato is working hard even though the results are slow. He loves being a missionary!

Good Manners

2008-10-28T10:08:00.000-07:00

Well Braxton informed us this week that he has really good manners and that I'd be proud of him. He said that everyone always eats with their fingers and talks with their mouths full. Either he isn't or he is fitting right in. I'm not sure, but either way he is fitting right in.

There are little street stores all over and they are ran by even kids. Braxton saw one the other day where a little 9-10 year old was running it. Braxton thought it was kind of cool, but at the same time felt bad that the kids really don't have much of a childhood.

Braxton has been teaching a lady named Brenda, and every time they set a baptismal date (they've set like 4) something weird always happens the day before. That is so how Satan works. He does not want us to do the things that will better ourselves or others. They are not giving up on her though. They are also teaching a guy names Louis Alberto. He actually contacted the missionaries and they have been teaching him. After the first lesson they had him pray, which of course they had to teach him how first. Braxton's comp freaked out because he thought it was so amazing and marvelous. Braxton thought his comp was funny for getting so excited. He said you would have to be there. Braxton said there are other cool families too.

Braxton loves being a Missionary!