Week 66 - Dec 4, 2015

Week 66 - Dec 4, 2015
Jacob:

Hello! I hope you're starting to get into the holiday spirit, because I am! The FamilySearch Center has already got a couple of trees near the steps and some poinsettias scattered around. I've started setting up the holiday decorations that I was sent in the mail, while trying to keep our apartment clean. It got here just in time to start the advent calendar, too!

During this past week I was pulled aside a couple times by a patron who had trouble indexing. I was even called by her personally when I wasn't technically on duty. I may have to bring this up with my zone leader whenever I get the chance.

If you ever get a chance to get to one of the Discovery Centers (in the FSC in SLC and soon to be in the Family History Library, also in Seattle) here are the stations to familiarize yourself with:

1. This is where you take a computer tablet, enter your FamilySearch account, and take a "selfie" of your self before taking it to the different interactive stations
2. Discover: Find out what your name means, how many people share your name, and what happened the year you were born!
3. Explore: Learn where your ancestors are from and when they migrated to America.
4. Experience: Take a "time machine" back to anytime between 1820 and 1895 to see the house that you ancestor might have lived in.
5. Picture: A special camera places your face over the face of people from different nationalities so you can see what you would look like if you dressed as them!
6. Record: Answer some questions about various topics, some relating to family pictures. There are two options for this one; a small room for single people, and a larger room for friends and families.
7. Share: Put some "takeaways" on the large tree to view before you send the story to your email account once you return your tablet. It only shows what you've done, so save this one for last!

It's fun to talk and share with you the different things I experience each day.

Tara:  Hi son! Are you still there?  I'm so sorry I didn't get an email sent yet!!!! The past few days have been busy and even though I have thought of you, I didn't get a chance to write.  Glad you got the decorations and are looking forward to Christmas!   I will write a good, long letter next week !!! I love you so much!!!!

Jacob:  Thanks for responding to this one. I was afraid that you wouldn't get a chance! As long as I know that you are there, it makes me so much happier! We're actually finishing up email time up here, so we might get a chance to talk more next week.

Tara:  So sorry my boy! I look forward to hearing from you so much!!! We are excited to hear the Christmas devotional this Sunday... Are you going? We are having fun getting your Christmas package put together.   We all love you and miss you!

Week 65 - Nov 25, 2015

Week 65 - Nov. 25, 2015
Jacob:

Hi, everyone. I'm writing you today because what would've been prep day is Black Friday. I have been doing a new activity on FamilySearch called "zoning." That's looking at old newspapers and creating zones for each section relating to deaths, births, and marriages. I would encourage you to do it too, but it's hard if you don't have somebody to show you. You could either go around asking if anybody knows how to do zoning on FamilySearch or just wait until I get back from my mission. I found some real gems, like the death record for the actual Oscar Mayer!

For Thanksgiving we have a nice dinner planned, plus watching Joseph Smith; the Prophet of the Restoration. When I saw it in the past, I recognized the Methodist preacher was the announcer for some old Church videos. Could you please tell me what his name was? On Friday we have a class on cleaning our apartments, then we're going to deep-clean our apartments. I still haven't moved out of the apartment. Seems like district leaders don't change apartments unless otherwise noted. We are also planning to see the lights on Temple Square and help out in the FamilySearch Center for the rest of the night. What are your plans for Thanksgiving?

I haven't gotten to do those cards, so I'm considering mailing them back as soon as the crowds die down for a while. I've felt that with my zone duties there aren't a whole lot of gaps in my schedule where initiatories could be done. But if there are any cards that need just endowments, I could do one each month.

Everyone's getting ready for the holiday season, too! The Church buildings are already putting up holiday decorations, and just yesterday the technician in our zone asked me to help him by downloading all the media library's Christmas videos onto a flash drive to plug into the big screen in the FSC's big TV screen.

Happy Holidays!




Tony: I think the Methodist Preacher's name is Tim Threlfall, according to IMDB:

Tara: 

Hi there! We are happily surprised to hear from you today. Sounds like you are doing good.  I've never heard about doing the zoning before... I will have to keep my eyes and ears open to learn more about it.  I loved hearing about your finding Oscar Meyer!  ️. Your Thanksgiving plans sound like fun. We are baking pies right now, planning on taking them to Preston tomorrow to eat with the Derricotts. There is supposed to be a big storm coming tonite, so I hope the roads will be good for driving. 

You can go ahead and send the temple cards back, or else give them to some other elders to get done.  I might send a few endowments for you to work on though.  

We are getting a box ready to send to you with a few Christmas decorations for your apartment.  Hope you like it!

Erik has been having a hard time lately. He is having a bit of depression and we are trying to help him with that.  He is going to talk to a counselor next week, and might be starting some medicine to help.  Don't worry about him, because he will be ok, but please remember him in your prayers and continue to write encouraging and loving things to him.

We are happy you are learning skills like deep cleaning! . I'm sure it will be useful through your whole life!  We love you so much and are proud of the good things you are doing! I will send some pictures from Thanksgiving, and I hope you enjoyed the pictures from our trip!  Love you a bunch!   Mom

Week 64 - Nov 20-2015

Week 64 - Nov 20, 2015
Jacob:

Hello everyone! I am doing great in Salt Lake City! I am doing very well in my zone at the FamilySearch Center. I have lots of opportunities to help out people. I also have a new companion, Elder Crittenden. He is also from Rexburg and I hope that he and I will have a good companionship.

This Thanksgiving we are planning on having a dinner. On Black Friday the FamilySearch Center doesn't have any missionaries assigned to it, so Elder Crittenden and I volunteered to be there from 5:00-9:00 pm.

I have just received word that the Family History Library will do some remodeling beginning December and ending February next year. There will be more details to come.

I have also come up with a holiday wish list. It consists mostly of things that I would like, not necessarily what I need (except an umbrella, it seems to be tearing and I lost the case for it)

- SD-USB converter

- Large notebook

- Chocolate-filled candy cane or peppermint stick (I can't remember which)

- Pencil sharpener

- 2016 calendar and advent calendar

- Freeze-dried ice cream

Thanks for being able to listen to me each week! I hope you all have a safe holiday season!

Me as an Englishman and General Custer: 

Week 63 - Nov 13, 2015

Week 63 - Nov 13, 2015
Jacob: 

Hello everyone! My companion and I are getting along just fine. You can tell the ward that I am letting myself change by being more diligent in scripture study. Even after the Book of Mormon challenge has ended I am planning to read through it a couple more times before the end of my mission. I was told by President Tate that "if you don't feel like praying, pray until you do feel like praying." I haven't done the initiatories yet, but I promise to get them done hopefully before the year is up. I am starting to feel myself change in allowing myself to submit myself to God's will more often.

Are those stories about James C. Livingston on FamilySearch? I haven't forgotten about him, but a couple times during some testing in the Discovery Center I have come across our first ancestor converted to Mormonism. The only problem is I can never remember his name. Speaking of ancestors, I am expecting Great-Grandpa McLean's profile to come up on FamilySearch sometime in the near-future. Maybe if you or I had something we could get it started and not deal with the stress of others being confused about it like it did when I first came on the mission.

The lights are starting to come up, and a few of them have been lit up for a couple nights for testing, but we don't expect them all on until after Thanksgiving. I also have been looking forward to a Thanksgiving dinner for our stake. So far as I can tell we have not had any snow, but the mornings and evenings while it's dark have been a bit chilly.

Each day in the FamilySearch Center we go around the floor helping those who like to be introduced to family history research or the FamilySearch website. We also have an in-service (sort of like a mini computer class) each week and sometimes we work in the Discovery Center, where people with a FamilySearch account can do interactive activities that are aimed to encourage family history work. I was told that sometime during the next year the Church was going to start turning the main floor of the Family History Library into a giant Discovery Center. As district leader it is my job to make sure everyone in my district has everything they need, including the mail which I get every weekday.

I believe that's all for now. I hope to see you again soon!

-Elder Derricott

1. Signs on the washing machines in our apartment complex (the white ones were accidentally placed upside-down)

2. Elder Heese and I

Week 62 - Nov. 6, 2015

Week 62 - Nov. 6, 2015
Jacob:

Hi, everyone! Sounds like you have all had a good week! I bet you all have great experiences with these trips! I hope that you all stay safe while separated from each other.

We have actually had some snow today, but mostly in the mountains. I hope it's not like last year, with so little precipitation that it was a year of drought. It is cold, though. I'd go so far as to say that I need to wear my coat to and from places.

On Halloween we went to zone as usual, but we went home early to avoid those who would target missionaries. We watched David Archuletta's "Called to Serve," which I found very inspirational. We also watched "The Quest for a Go-Getter." For those who haven't seen it, it's about a man who is asked by a kind boss to fetch him a blue vase. However, the boss's other two jealous workers are determined to keep the man from getting it. It's very humorous and at the same time very inspirational. I think it's my new favorite short movie!

I have also finished reading the Book of Mormon, so I am going through again to check over anything I may have missed.

My new companion Elder Heese is very nice and kind. He likes talking to people and helping out patrons. I have constant prayers of comfort and joy, and I make an effort to look forward to each day with a positive attitude.

I think that's all that I have, but before I go I would like to point out that one of my gloves somehow got missing. I would like to request another pair of gloves because one glove by itself isn't of very good use.

Love you! Elder Derricott

Week 61 - Oct 30, 2015

Week 61 - Oct 30, 2015
Jacob: 

This month after transfers I have a new companion, Elder Heese. He can walk fine, but for long distances like between our apartment and church or Temple Square, he has to use a walking stick. I don't see Elder Bess very often, probably because he's in a different zone than I am. I did manage to get one photo with Elder Gates before we transferred, and this was after a dinner appointment with some of the senior missionaries.

I love the package you got me! I just got started on the "Boo Berry" cereal today! One thing I'm curious about is if it tastes any different from "Franken Berry." Are you going to make it a tradition to buy "Monster Cereal" each year? We don't have too much planned for Halloween, just an early release from day zone. We also get to see a movie at the stake center after dinner and some evening sports. Other than our apartments and the stake center, we don't have much else to go during the evening.

I am also near the end of my Book of Mormon challenge. Our mission is planning next to do a reading challenge based off the talks from this year's October General Conference, but I'm not sure if you are going to get anything on that?

I'm sure that the mission is planning on getting us tickets for this year's Christmas devotional, but I'm still skeptical as to whether young missionaries will be able to go to the Christmas concert. Last year's concert went over curfew time and we had to go home with our mission coordinator Elder Musgrave.

Anyways, it's nice to see that everyone is doing well and I hope to speak with you again in the future!

Elder Derricott and Elder Gates

Week 60 - Oct 23, 2015

Week 60 - Oct 23, 2015

Jacob:  Hey, everyone! I'm doing alright. This week I have been learning a bit about leadership and how I could become a better leader. I hope that what I learn will help me become a better person in the future.

I got some melatonin a couple weeks ago, and it seems to be helping with my sleep a bit. I do, however, still need some special shampoo. I have noticed some dandruff in my hair for the past few weeks. I also seem to be the victim of losing water bottles, so could you please send one asap? Maybe you could find a way to etch or paint the name "Derricott" on it?

Last week my companion and I got on computers that suddenly shut down on us. They seemed to be the only ones that shut down in the entire library, and mine wouldn't turn back on until I removed my flash drive. I'm starting to doubt my technological skills. Thank goodness for auto-saving drafts!

This week has been pretty good. We had a couple special lunches; one was at the Lion House with a sister missionary who worked in our zone at the FamilySearch Center, the other was a farewell luncheon for some missionaries who were leaving. It was a sandwich luncheon, but for some heretofore undiscovered law of physics the cheese was gone faster than the meat. I also got a flu shot, so I should be safe from the flu for the next couple months.

I feel like this mission is blessing me with good comfort and health. Since the mission started I am starting to get a feel for my budget and how to make the most of spending.

Hope to see you all soon!

Week 59 - Oct 16, 2015

Week 59 - Oct. 16, 2015

Jacob: Hi, everyone! I am having a good time working in the FamilySearch Center. I get to help out patrons, and if I get stuck, I can just ask for help from the other missionaries in the area. I have already done shopping, but I was hoping to get laundry done after emails were done. President Tate's wife Sister Tate said that some of my shirts were starting to look a bit "yellow" so I bought some "Oxi-Clean" at the store.

It's nice to hear that you are having a nice warm fall. Ours is pretty good too except for one thing: gnats. Our apartment complex seems full of them during these warm fall days, so we literally can't go anywhere without going through them.

I am basically caught up with the Book of Mormon challenge, and I am trying to find a good way to apply it to my life.

I can't wait to hear how those upcoming events turn out, especially that talk in primary! Do you know who specifically is teaching the lesson?

I'm sorry that my email isn't quite as long as some of my more recent ones, but I do have some nice pictures to share. I hope that everyone has a great week and know that everyone is in my prayers!

Sincerely, Elder Derricott

Tara :  Hi son.  Good to hear from you! Oxi clean should help a lot with your shirts... Also wash them with hot water and sometimes a little bleach.   The gnats sound really irritating...we have had a lot of them too. I don't know who is teaching primary, but it was the president, Micalla Nef, who asked for information about the missionaries.  I will let you know if I find out more about it.  Your pictures are great! I would love to get a picture of you and your companion sometime. What are your Thanksgiving plans? I think we are going to Preston with all the Derricotts.  Love you so much!

Jacob:

Salt Lake Temple

Cathedral with U of U?

Fountain

U logo on mountain

Church Office Building

Tony: I was in Salt Lake Monday through Thursday, Jacob.  We went to Temple Square Wednesday night.  We also saw the inside of the Cathedral of the Madeline on Tuesday.  We went to the Cathedral of the Jazz on Monday.

Week 58 - Oct. 9, 2015

Week 58 - Oct. 9, 2015
Jacob:

Hi, everyone! Just to get things straight I am a district leader, not a zone leader. My companion is good, but since he's new I'm still trying to help him with getting used to the mission life.

The Discovery Center is very fun! You take a tablet computer with your FamilySearch account to various docking stations which tell you about what happened the year you were born, what you would look like in the clothes of your heritage and what the migration patterns of your ancestors were. There's also two booths where you can record yourself telling stories about your self. After you're done, you can email your experience to yourself and share with your friends. There's also a Discovery Center in Seattle, so you don't have to wait if you don't want.

We have had some guests who do some funny things. One time we asked if someone would like a tablet, and they responded by holding up their own Ipad. Sometimes they dock the tablet the wrong way, and sometimes they touch screens that are obviously not touch-screens.

I also liked general conference. One of my favorite talks was by Von G. Keetch, who talked about his experience with the barriers of life. I find that really inspiring during this age.

I hope to see you again soon! Know that you are in my prayers and that I think of the best for you!

-Elder Derricott

P.S.- We found a praying mantis this week! I can't tell if it's male or female, but it's pretty cool. It's about the size of the palm of my hand.

 Mom: I loved that conference talk too! Often we can't see the Sharks that are out there. The discovery center sounds really cool... I can't wait to check it out!  Where is your companion from?  Where did you find the praying mantis? Did you catch it? We saw one on our trip to Colorado ....it was on the motel door.  They are such amazing bugs! Is there anything you need? How is the scripture reading going? I love you a ton!!  Emily got her braces off.  :)
Jacob: Yay! She looks great!

Week 57 - Oct 2, 2015

Week 57 - Oct 2, 2015
Jacob:

Hi, everyone! Not much happened this past week, except I got shown the ropes of what a district leader had to do. I have to pick up mail, give weekly reports on my district, and attend meetings while my companion does hosting. On the plus side I get a phone, so I can text the other elders about what is going on.
I work in the FamilySearch Center where I help guests with setting up an account on FamilySearch or recovering their original account or password. I also help in the Discovery Center, which gives you some interactive activities based on how well-developed your FamilySearch family tree is. I found out that one of our ancestors was born in South Africa, but it was just one and I'm questioning the quality of the information.

The stores aren't that crowded yet, but since our P-day is on Friday now it isn't that much of a problem going through crowds. We will probably watch the other sessions in the visitors centers on Temple Square. We did get some tickets for the balcony, but we're trading them in for another area. Look for me in Plaza 1 during Priesthood session!

I heard about the blood moon, but we didn't actually see it. We heard about it on Saturday and thought it was happening then. It wasn't, but I got a couple pictures of a full moon anyway. On the night that it actually did happen the sky was too hazy to see it.

I would love it if you could send some endowment cards for our monthly temple trips. I hope to see you soon!
Mom: 

Hi son.  Sounds like some fun new responsibilities!  One of dads ancestors really was born in South Africa.... Maybe we can do some research to find out what his family was doing there.  I will let you know if I find out.  We watched the blood moon and it was pretty cool... Sorry you missed it! I do like the moon pictures you sent.  

I do have some endowments that need to be done. I will send the cards to you this week. If you want to work on the endowments for them, that would be great.  Otherwise, just send the cards back when the initiatory is done.

How was your birthday?

Week 56 - Sept 25, 2015

Week 56 - Sept 25, 2015
Jacob:

Hi, everyone! I promise next week I'll try to write earlier! Probably right after lunch!

Anyways, yes I did get a new transfer. I'm now a district leader! That means making sure that the elders in my district get the mail and assignments that they need for the week! Just before coming to emails my new companion Elder Gates and I had to track down some elders in our district to get them their checks because most of the elders have P-day on Saturday, but Zion's Bank is closed on the weekends, so nobody could cash checks on that day. (We also saw some people dressed up for Comic Con, including a group which one of the elders said was the heroes from Disney's Big Hero 6.)

I gave my first blessing this last Sunday before transfers happened. My old companion Elder Teichert stopped our former district leaders and asked if we could help give a blessing to help him sleep better and get over some flu-like symptoms. I pray that his new companion will help him to stay on track and on schedule.

I am also ready for General Conference! I hope that the new apostles will be appreciated just like the old ones were.

I got that razor and it works very well. For my birthday I need a pillow, a nail clipping kit, and a cup coaster. I would also like a metallic ink pen, an advent calendar for the holidays, and some LEGO Mixels sets (if you can't find them at the store, try looking for them online!)

I hope to be a good district leader and that I will have the energy to make the most of my mission!

Tony: 

That's real exciting about the District Leader opportunity, Jacob!  Do your best to pray for and help those who are in your district.  That will help you think less of yourself and more of how to help them come closer to Christ.

It's neat to see that your letters are getting longer and longer.  We sure enjoy seeing you grow from a distance.

Got any pictures this week?  We especially like the ones with you in them.

 

Jacob:

 

Tara:  Wow! District leader is really exciting! I'm sure you will do a great job! Tell us a bit about elder Gates... Did you move to a new apartment? 

Jacob:

Yes I did move to another apartment. With each move I find it harder to move my stuff, but I will try to get prepared ahead of time.

Elder Gates is a new elder, and I am the first to be his companion after his first two weeks in the mission field! I hope that I can help him to be friendly to the other missionaries.

Tony: Looks like your hair is really short and you're gaining a bit of weight.  Do you weigh yourself during fitness time?  Stay healthy!

Tara: I love the picture and I love you! 

Week 55 - Sept. 19, 2015

Week 55 - Sept 19, 2015
Jacob:   Hi, everyone! I wanted everyone to know that I am doing very well! I have started the habit of reading the Book of Mormon during morning because I can get ready pretty quickly, but my companion takes a while. I'm usually done with the daily assigned reading by then, but if not, I try to find breaks in my day zone for doing that.

    These past two weeks I have encountered a problem; my razor is dying. Since the light doesn't come on when I plug it in I assume it's a problem with the razor itself. So I'm doing some quick shaves before it finally dies out.

    I also bid a solemn farewell to Great Grandpa McLean, and I pray that he will be safe in heaven. I have not been able to talk with any of the apostles as of yet, but with less than a year ahead of me, I hope that changes. I am also looking forward to General Conference, and I hope that the week of shopping before it I can get enough food for two weeks!

    My companion and I have a driving meeting tonight, so I'll be sure to take some good notes. Maybe I'll take a couple pictures there, too!

    Be safe in your travels and know that you are in my prayers! I love you all!

Tara: 

Hi son!  So good to hear from you!  Sounds like your razor is dying.  We will get one sent to you ASAp.  If you need one right away, just get some shave cream and a disposable razor to use till your new one comes.

We usually do our Book of Mormon reading in the morning also.  It just seems like if I try doing it later, it doesn't get done.  I drop Emily at the school for marching band at 7, then go to my work parking lot where I eat breakfast in the van, listen to my scriptures, and put on makeup for work at 8.  It sounds silly to do it there, but there isn't time to go home, then go to work.

Is there anything you want us to tell Grandma and Grandpa while we are there tomorrow? 

We love you so much!  Be good and be happy!

Love mom 

(Quick note on Sept. 22)
Jacob: Apparently my zone leader’s assistant has signed me up for a flu shot on October 21. I looked at the banner and I noted that without Medicare or insurance it costs about $35. I just wanted to know if we had insurance or if I had to pay from my pocket?

Tony: 

I think that'll probably be covered under our DMBA insurance.  I'll have your mom check to be sure.

I see the razor was delivered to the mission office today.  If you haven't received it yet ask one of your superiors to check in the mission office.

 

Tara:  Insurance should take care of it. You should have a copy of your insurance card in your binder. Let me know if you need another copy or any other information.  Love you!

Week 54 - Sept. 12, 2015

Week 54 - Sept. 12, 2015
Jacob:

Hi, everyone! I have had a pretty busy week. We have two "Preach My Gospel" lessons this week, the first is Sunday and the second is Monday. Fortunately we just started preparing for the second lesson yesterday. For our linking project we had a few sites that only had certain people and we took a side track and did those before going back to what we were usually doing. The people in charge of the project were thinking about making an evening zone that focused on adding links to our template, but for now it's just an idea.
This morning after we got done with shopping our regular checkout lane was taken so we had to move to different lanes. I found a lane, but the person at the register was an old woman who was so used to working at her usual computer in another lane that she had trouble checking some items out to me. It wasn't really a problem until she got to the carrots; she didn't have the number for them, so she had to ask another cashier for help.

I got that package that the Rodriguez family sent, and I was delightfully surprised. It contained five large boxes of "Pop Tarts," a Disneyland-themed journal, a Mickey Mouse pen, an Oswald the Lucky Rabbit t-shirt, and a Mickey Mouse ice cream bar (not a real one, it was a squeaky toy shaped like one!) I will be sure to thank him as soon as possible!

I heard that a recording of last year's Christmas concert, Keep Christmas With You, will be available on DVD October and on television Christmas, so if you want it you need to be prepared to get it. It features Santino Fontana from Frozen and the Sesame Street Muppets! I got a chance to see it last year; I think I remember telling you my favorite part was when Count helped Richard Elliot with the organ rendition of "Twelve Days of Christmas."

I know this week's email is a bit lengthy, but I have so much to share this week! I hope to talk again and have a great rest of the year!

Mom:  Hi kiddo! I love the long email!!!!  Sounds like you are doing good. I will watch for the dvd... We haven't seen it yet and I can't wait to watch the Count!  That sounds like a great package from the Rodriguez family.  I'm glad you are feeling loved!   Be good and do good! I love you!!!!!

Jacob:  We were coming back to work after lunch break, and we saw this just between the Church History Library and the Conference Center

Week 53 - Hump Day!

Week 53 - Hump Day! - Sept. 5, 2015
Jacob:

I am very aware that today is my year mark. So today I decided to buy a small bottle of "Sprite!" I have had a good day so far, and some of the young elders say that the second year passes by very quickly. I hope that I can make the best of things before my time comes!
Our team for our Early Missionaries project has split up into several groups; I am in the "linking" group, which means that we will be working on adding more website links that make mention of each elder already in the database. I am enjoying my work and I am putting all that I can into it.

I got that package you sent this week on the day after you sent it, though I'm afraid some of the lollipops got broken; did you get them that way?

This Labor Day we are watching Fathers of Faith and doing an "Indexing extravaganza." It seems we usually have one each time we have a day off of our zone work, unless it's a holiday and they have something more meaningful planned.

Anyways, I need some more of that special shampoo, since my supply is running out. I think that's basically it, so keep in touch!
Tara: 

Hi son.  Sounds like things are going well. That candy was already broken.... That's why we got a bag of it for only $3! It wasn't a great candy factory, but we had fun anyway. 

I am working on getting that shampoo... The prescription expired and the doctor doesn't want to renew it without seeing you for a checkup. I told them that you are on a mission, and can't come in, so they said they will see what they can do. I haven't heard back, so I will check again this week.  

A small sprite sounds like a good celebration treat!  Did you get that package from the Rodriguez  family? Elder Rodriguez posted some pictures of you and him on Facebook today, wishing his "greenie" a happy hump day.
Jacob:  I didn't get that package from the Rodriguez family yet, but I look forward to it! I don't think that image you sent made it through would you mind sending it again?
Tara:  I just sent those photos from Elder Rodriguez' Facebook post. Hope they show up! Have a great week.  We love you and miss you!  By the way, I watched that movie you and Erik made in junior high, "Lost Without A Hall Pass".  It made me giggle!   Love you!

Week 52

Week 52- Aug. 29, 2015
Jacob:

Hi everyone! I am glad that you got to do all those things for a vacation! It is unusual when you don't have anything to do for a while. But with summer coming to a close, it will be nice to be involved in more constructive activities.

With the Book of Mormon challenge I have learned to be more patient with my companions. I have determined that also means being flexible with my schedule when things don't quite go my way. I hope that I can take this lesson and make it a part of my life back home.

As far as money goes, I don't think I have any problems with spending it. I keep a "surplus" envelope containing mostly change from previous shopping trips. I've never bothered counting it all up though, it's just in case I don't have enough money for a shopping trip on a certain week.

Anyways, I hope that you have a good week and I hope that we can all have good times.

-Elder Derricott

PS- Until further notice, I will be using Gmail for weekend emails.

Tara:  Hi son!  Good to hear from you! I'm glad to hear you are learning and growing through your experiences. Also glad that you have enough to meet your needs. Did you get that lotion I sent?  I'm also curious about whether or not you have had to deal with bedbugs yet? I hear that it continues to be a problem in some of the apartments.
Jacob: I have got the lotion, but you also said you would send a package of candy, which I have not yet received. I am curious as to how long it takes for packages to get here. When did you send it?
Tara:  Actually I haven't had time to send it yet... Hopefully this week I will get it to you
Jacob: Okay! I love you!
Tara:  I love you too my boy!

Week 51

Week 51 - August 22, 2015
Jacob:

It happened again! I try the computer for my Outlook email, but the online website doesn't come up. So I have to use Gmail again this week. If you want to converse you will have to add Gmail to your list, just in case the Outlook website isn't working.
Anyways, this week in Salt Lake City I noticed a haze going to and from zones, have you heard anything about that? Elder Teichert and I are still getting along, and we learned that we are still companions for another month.

As for work, I have gotten a new project. I am working with a senior missionary and another young elder to attach more links to the names that everyone has worked on for the previous project I was involved with.

I got a chance to look at those photos over the week. I especially liked the one where Erik and Emily had fake mustaches and were posing with a cutout of that cowboy whose name escapes me (guess I need to watch a couple westerns when I get back!)  About that ice cream place; is there anything about it that makes it special, or is it just a popular place to visit?

I hope to see more of your adventures soon!

Week 50

Week 50 - Aug 15
Jacob:

Hello, everyone! My Outlook Web account isn't working today, so unless I hear otherwise this week's report will have to be sent via Gmail. Anyways, there wasn't a lot of rain this week, it's been mostly dry. Don't worry, I am still trying to stay hydrated.

I got that care package and that note that said you were on your way to Denver, Colorado! What are you planning on doing while you're there? I would like to see some pictures of your adventures along the way.

My work at the Church History has been coming along well. I am almost through with one of the projects my boss sent, and hopefully she will have more instructions before I finish up. Yesterday I was using the Mormon Pioneer Overland Travel website for some of the work, and sometimes I came up blank. I quickly found the reason: I had accidentally left the birth year of a previous person in the search box! So I had to go back and do the searches I deemed "not found" and look up the information all over again! Sometimes it is helpful to look up a person you found on the Overland Travels website in FamilySearch, too.

I believe that's all for now! I hope to see you again soon!

 This is the view of the Capitol building from the 26th floor of the Church Office Building after our monthly Mission Conference. This one struck me because it talked about how being happy or miserable was not a reaction, but a choice.

Week 49

Week 49 - Aug 8
Jacob:     Hi, everybody! It sounds pretty hectic down there in Rexburg! I hope that you are doing all you can to stay safe and sound! Salt Lake has had quite a storm last night. I took a picture of it and I'm planning to send it to you later. Some of the storm drains were flooded and I was worried about getting back to our apartment! Fortunately by the time our evening zone ended the storm had let up enough so that it wasn't too serious.
    I am very aware that I am reaching my year mark. I don't have anything planned, but during the fast Sunday when elders reach or are close to their year mark they have first priority of bearing their testimonies in Sacrament Meeting. We sure enjoy having such a nice ward here in the city!
    As for work, I am going over some work I did previously and making some corrections and adding some sources I didn't add for the first pass. I predict it will be some time before we get to the second pass.
    Take care and be safe!
    -Elder Derricott

Tara:  Hi son! I don't know if you will get this because we have spotty reception. I'm flag you were safe in the big storm and look forward to seeing pictures. Your work sounds really interesting. I am learning how to attach sources in family search... Is that similar to what you are doing?

Jacob:    Yes, it is similar. Basically my day zone work involves missionaries from the first hundred years since the gospel has been restored. That's all I can say about it for now. This was taken during evening zone's break period. I don't know if you can see it, but the storm drains were flooded. Fortunately by the time we had to leave the storm let up.

Week 48

Week 48 - Aug 1, 2015
Jacob: Hi, everyone. I don't know if you will be able to read my email on vacation, but I just wanted to let you know that I am having fun here on the mission. I have also taken more of an interest in doing family research and attaching sources to some family members.
    This week we moved some furniture from an unoccupied apartment and storage to apartments that would soon be occupied. We were released early from our day zones to help out. There were times we feared that the furniture would crush us, especially going around tight corners and stairwells. We also wound up ripping a chunk of plaster off one of the corners of the apartments, but the people in charge said that they would take care of it.
     Also the Assistants to the President asked me if I would be willing to give them some ideas for a class they wanted to start teaching. I offered them some old PowerPoint presentations from the evening zone Research Essentials class, which they gratefully accepted.
    I saw the pictures of you in old towns and in Blodgett Canyon. It looks like a lot of fun! Is this your yearly summer trip, or do you have something else in mind?
    Well, take care and I hope we can talk again soon!
    -Elder Derricott
Tara:  Hi son!!!! You are writing earlier than I expected. Those pictures were of a trip to montana we took last weekend. Unfortunately I don't have any new pictures this week. We haven't seen any pictures of you for a bit?  We would love one when you get the time. We are at home this weekend, but in a couple weeks we are going to Denver for our family vacation. It sounds like the moving was a big deal! I'm glad you didnt get crushed!  Today we are cleaning house and doing yard work. What are you doing the rest of the day?
Jacob:

    We've got a big Preach My Gospel lesson to plan for Monday, plus laundry and hopefully evening sports. The lesson is on the Great Apostacy and were were told about it this Thursday. With the amount of reading we have to do I'm glad that we were told about it sooner instead of today or Sunday. We've started on scripture reading, and hopefully we will have something pulled together before Monday comes around.
Tara: 

We are excited to start our Book of Mormon challenge today!!!  You will have to keep us posted on how you are doing with it. I bet you learned some cool stuff about the apostasy... I have to admit that I don't know a whole lot about it.  Sounds like you are doing the same kinds of stuff as us today.  Thanks for the pictures!!! We love to see what you are doing.  Our favorites are the pictures with you and the other elders in them. We love you and miss you a ton! As always, we are so proud of the good work you are doing!   Is there anything you need? We love you son!!!!!
Jacob:     I could use some more of that special shampoo and lotion, and are you still working on getting a copy of Our Search for Happiness?
Tara:  I forgot about the book... Sorry!!! I will try to find it and get those sent this week. Is your dry skin/dandruff acting up?
Jacob:I'm actually doing fine, except the spaces between my fingers feel a bit dry.
Tara:  Good. Just use regular lotion till I Han get the other sent. Have a great week and know that we love you!!!

   The first picture is the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square in the Conference Center. The second one is the temple's reflecting pool after being drained.

Week 47

  Week 47 - July 25, 2015
Jacob: Hi, everyone! I am having a good time in SLC! I am working hard in my zones and I hope that things get done as close to perfection as we can. This week we celebrated Pioneer Day. We were going to go to a big parade, but because of the crowds we didn't want to attract any unwanted attention. So we went to sports in another church building (our stake center was taken) and talked with each other. Then we went up for a hike up Ensign Peak. Once all the elders were there we listened to the story of how the early pioneers found this place and we sung a couple hymns from the top.
    I tried drinking warm milk before going to bed, and it seems to be working just fine. So don't worry about the sleep I'm getting. I could, however use some more of that special shampoo and lotion. It's sad that Uncle Vance is gone, but he's in a better place, and I hope that he can live a happy life there.
    Are you planning on going on any big vacations before summer ends? Even if you're not, I hope that you will have fun anyways! Take care!
    -Elder Derricott

Week 46

Week 46, July18, 2015
Jacob:    Hey everyone! Life in Salt Lake has been pretty good! I can't believe that it's almost been a year! For the past few weeks I have been wondering, "Where has all the time gone?"
    I don't know if you know already, but our new mission president President Tate assigned a Book of Mormon challenge. Starting August 1 and going on for 3 months we are to read, mark, and ponder the Book of Mormon every day. President Tate also invited the families of the missionaries to participate in this event, so if you wanted to join me, that would be great! I am looking forward to it and I hope to learn a lot!
    I'm glad to see that Erik made it back safely! He sure looks like he is enjoying his return! I understand it may be hard for him to get back into life at home, but he is in my prayers and I hope for the best for him. By the way, what is the picture he and everyone else is looking at and where is it?
    I am glad to write every week and I hope to be the best I can be!
    -Elder Derricott

Tara:  Hi Jacob! Sorry I didn't get a letter sent... It's been a crazy week. I did send a package the other day so it should be there soon. Erik is doing good but it has been very disappointing to him to come home and not extend his mission. Your prayers are appreciated! The picture is in the Byui center. It was in a world fair pavilion many years ago and was donated to the college. It depicts the plan of salvation. I will write more in just a minute, but want to send this so you know I am here. Love you!

Tara:

I  excited about your Book of Mormon reading challenge. I will join you, and see if the rest of the family wants to join also.  How has your sleeping been? A few suggestions are to drink some warm milk before bed, or you can take a melatonin pill. Melatonin is just an herbal supplement... Not really a drug. You can get it in the vitamin area at walmart or a drug store like Walgreens. I hope it helps.    Let me know.  

I think we are going to the Idaho museum today. They have an exhibit about pirates that I think grandpa would enjoy.  We are mostly getting ready for a bunch of family to come tomorrow to hear erik report his mission. 

We love you so much and think of you every day. Be good and do good! Take lots of pictures for us!  Love you!!!

Week 45

Week 45, July

Jacob: Hey everyone! Another sunny week in SLC, though we did have a thunderstorm that kept me up through one of the nights here. I guess we probably needed it, seeing that it has been pretty dry for the last month. Actually, I have been having trouble getting to sleep lately; any ideas?
    I also have got a hair cutting appointment set up for tonight. On this mission some of the young elders have volunteered to cut hair for free, and so far they have been pretty good at their job. They don't leave a lot of hair untrimmed, and they are very nice. I still love shopping, though I feel like I need to use up some of my surplus items before stocking up on more!
    When I first heard Erik was coming home, I was under the impression that he would be back for some time and departing some time later. I was disappointed that he will not continue to serve on a mission after all, but I am getting over it. I can rest with the satisfaction that he has done his very best to bring himself closer to God. Also, I enjoy the possibility of seeing him after my mission is over.
    Well, be sure to take care and have fun!
    -Elder Derricott

Week 44

Week 44, July 3, 2015
Jacob:     Hello, everyone! It sure has been hot here! I expected it to be like California sometime later in July or August, but it has been pretty warm throughout all of June. Frankly I would like to get through the heat as quickly as possible.
    This week I was told that with some members of our data team were going to be absent from a meeting next week, and they needed somebody who could access a certain file required for our team. They asked me if I would be willing, and I said yes. So I got a loaner laptop for the meeting locked away in my work area, and I will be sure to give it back after the meeting.
    This 4th of July we are going to help with cleaning the church and deep-cleaning our own apartments. Later we will give special lessons, have a barbeque, and watch a special movie about Independence Day.
    Don't worry about me getting what I need, I'm doing just fine. In fact, when we went shopping this morning I told Elder Teichert that I needed some detergent and he allowed me to take one of his detergents!
    It's great that you could share the gospel with a few people! I do hope that those people will find what they're looking for!
    Love you all and good luck!
    -Elder Derricott

Tara: Sounds like you have a good plan for the holiday weekend. We are going to the library right now, while Emily is at a water party. Then we will pick her up and go home. We might go to the drive in tonight and see inside out and tomorrow land. Not sure yet. We are glad you are doing so well.  Stay cool and know we love you!!

Jacob:   If you do see them, tell me how they are! I might add them to a list of movies worthwhile to see after the mission is over!

Tara:  Will do.  What movies do you already have on your list?

Jacob;     I have Return to Oz, The Black Cauldron, Avengers: Age of Ultron, and that LEGO Simpsons episode I never saw, among others

Week 43, June 27

Week 43, June 27, 2015
Jacob:  Hi, everyone! How are you doing? What are your plans for the 4th of July weekend? Our day zones in the mission will be closed the day before, so we will probably be getting a schedule sometime next week of what exactly will happen.
    Like I said before, the summer days are hot. I don't know if I said it before, but because it gets so hot out on summer days we wear white shirts in non-public areas like the Church History Library. However, we do have to wear suits in public places like Temple Square and our church.
    I'm sure you heard that the Mormon Tabernacle Choir is going to be on tour for the next couple of weeks. This means that instead of performing in the Tabernacle there will be two special pre-recorded episodes of Music and the Spoken Word, one for each Sunday they'll be gone. After the Choir gets back, they will move to the Conference Center for the rest of summer.
    I got the pictures of girls camp, and some of those pictures of what I did in the past. I think I remember most of those events, and it's great to know that I am thought of. I don't have any pictures to show you as of now, but I will try to get some shortly! Love you all!

Tara:  Hi son! So good to hear from you! It's hot here too... Though not as hot as in your area.   Tell us sbout you new mission president? I posted that last pic of you and Elder Teichert on Facebook. His mom was so happy to see it. She said that he hasn't figured out how to email pictures home, so I told her that maybe you could help him. It would be good if you could teach him how to do that.

Jacob: I'll see what I can do


Tara: We don't have big plans for Independence Day... Emily is going to march in the parade. I will take some pictures of it for you. Who is your new president, and have you had much interaction with him yet?

Jacob:  Our new president is President Tate. We haven't had that much interaction yet, but we expect to talk more with our monthly interviews with the president.

Tara:  I'm sure you will get to know him and love him,, just like President Workman. I haven't gotten that book for you yet, but am working on it. I miss you and love you. We pray for you every day and are so happy that you are loving your mission. Keep up the awesome work and continue to share your experiences with us. We love you!!!!

Jacob:  As I sit here I was looking around the room, and I noticed some people with stickers with their name, the FamilySearch logo, and the words "1st Time Visitor" (not necessarily in that order.) It's nice to know that so many people are interested in their family history!

Tara:   That is cool   I just got a new calling as a ward family history consultant!  I don't know what I need to do but I am excited to learn!!!  Hopefully you will be able to teach me!

Jacob:  I'm not sure I would know anything, I'm not a consultant.

Week 42

Week 42

Jacob:    Hi, everyone! I have had a pretty good week. Nothing too exciting except our mission president, President Workman, is going home this month. We expect an announcement Monday about who the next mission president will be. I hope that he will be a good president and do some things that will help this mission and make us better missionaries.
    I'm sorry to hear about Vance and Marie. I did enjoy our short visits with them. If you see them again, tell them I said hello. I didn't expect you to be so busy during the summer, but I bet you have a lot of fun anyways!
    I am still working on that project, and the team I'm with expects to finish it up before the end of summer. Most of the stuff we work on in the Church History Library are categorized as either sacred, private, or confidential. I'm afraid I can't really show you what it's like inside the library, but I would like to take you with me on a tour as soon as my mission is over.
    I had somebody in the Family History Library take this picture. The picture is of me an my current companion, Elder Teichert. He works on scanning images in the Church History Library. It's a bit different working with somebody who's not working on the same project you are!
    I hope to see you again really soon!
-Elder Derricott

Tara:  Hi son! I love the picture!!!! When I get pictures of you boys it makes my day!  Dad and I are just getting ready to go to the temple and do some sealings. I am looking forward to that tour when you are done. I hope it doesn't happen till September 2016 though!  . Keep up the good work. I love you!

Week 41

Week 41

June 13, 2015

Jacob: Hey, everyone! I'm doing fine up here in Salt Lake! Things are starting to warm up here. From what I'm told you can just wear shirts and ties in "private" areas like the Church History Library, but in more "public" areas like the Family History Library, Walmart, church, etc., you have to wear a suit jacket.
    We have had a good week with work and all. We were surprised to hear on Sunday that we were supposed to prepare a lesson for our Zone conference the next day. It's kind of hard to do stuff that seems like last-minute to you, but we found a way to get our lesson plan in a short amount of time (plus we just learned that they can be 15 minutes long instead of the regular 20 we used to do.)
    I wish I could have been there for the family reunion. But here on the mission it's like having a family, too. I can't believe that summer got here so quickly; it feels like California in Salt Lake!
    I haven't received my package yet, but when I do, I'll try to record the time that it gets to me so that I can plan ahead in time for special events like holidays, birthdays, etc.
    Love you all and hope to see you again!
Elder J. Derricott

Tara: Hi my boy! It's so good to hear from you! Dad and I are in Pocatello right now, and we are heading to Preston later today. We are going to spend a few hours with the Derricott family, then head back home. We are having a fun weekend,celebrating our anniversary. 

It sounds like you did a good job preparing for your zone conference on short notice. Sometimes those are the best lessons because you have to rely so much on the Spirit. What was your lesson about? I am preparing to teach the young women about the Priesthood tomorrow. Have any good ideas to help me?

I'm glad that your mission feels like a family. It is important to learn to love the people you are working with. 

I love you! 

Jacob: We taught about Family History Work. Considering that we are on a Family History mission, I find that very appropriate. I hope that you have a fun weekend! Happy anniversary!

Tara: Ha-ha! That does sound appropriate. Are you still doing any drawing? Are you and Erik writing to each other? 

Jacob: I still do some small stuff from time to time, but I'm trying to focus on personal study in the scriptures and the mission library. Speaking of which, I don't believe I have Our Search for Happiness, do you think you could send a copy to me? I could also use another pocket hymnal, I lost my old one. Erik and I also write to each other each week, so don't worry about us!