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?