Week 13: Happy Holidays!

Merry Christmas! I hope everyone had a blast for Christmas and enjoyed all the goodies, treats, and family and friend time! There's nothing better! Whether you celebrated in Texas, Louisiana, Utah, Idaho, Wisconsin, Thailand...or even California ;) (Yes, I know) Wherever you were, I hope it was great and you made the most of it!

As promised, I said I would tell you what food I ate around Christmas time for my first French Christmas, so, here it goes!

• Shrimp and smoked salmon (lots and lots)
• Cheese (we're always eating cheese)
• Foie Gras (you can look up the details of that one haha)
• Lots of bread (all kinds of French bread)
• and even more cake. (some gooood stuff)

It was all good! I ate a ton! Every house we went to fed us at least 8 courses. And of course, when they had a little left over after each course, they gave it to the missionaries. And the new missionary is always given more haha. I didn't really gain weight though haha you can look at the pictures!

Editors Note: Pictures will be uploaded here when Elder Anderson finds fast enough internet to send them.  Thank you for your patience.

Christmas was great, but there are a few things that I missed:

       Family and Friends: laughing, eating, and just hanging out and enjoying each others company. I know I'll get to again one day so I'm not too torn up, don't worry! But just know that I DO miss you.

       Performances: Since moving to Texas, I've enjoyed going to the Epiphany Christmas Choir performances with my family, and I missed it this year. And there was actually someone in it that I wanted to see! She is also in a play called "Joseph" I believe, so everyone give her a round of applause! One busy, talented lady! :)

      Warm weather. Although it isn't TOO cold here, I know it'll get there haha but it's all good.

Oh, I got a BIG OL' Christmas package! It was AWESOME. I got it a couple days after Christmas, but that just meant that I got to have a Christmas morning all to myself!

Editors Note: Pictures will be uploaded here when Elder Anderson finds fast enough internet to send them.  Thank you for your patience.

Some of these gifts were definitely inspired! The mac and cheese was put to good use because we were running out of stuff to eat and it helped us make it to today! Also, I was given a Book of Encouragement. It's awesome, thank you so much! It has one of my favorite quotes in it, which I actually put up on ly wall in Texas over a year ago. It says "Let no feeling of discouragement prey upon you, and you are sure to succeed." - Abraham Lincoln

If someone ever tells you that something is impossible, it can't be done, the chances are low, or YOU can't possibly do it, forget them! You can accomplish ANYTHING if you really want to! Something else I was given highlights Alma 22:16 (click the scripture). A dear friend told me about it, and explained it simply to me, and I'm going to share what they said, so hopefully they won't be embarassed. They said that In Alma 22:16 it explains that if we want something, we need to humble ourselves, repent, ask in faith for help, believe that you can receive it, and you will receive. So if you're doing something difficult, then that's the solution! Listen to Abraham Lincoln, but more importantly, listen to our Heavenly Father and have faith in Jesus Christ and the help He can give you! I've got some smart friends, there's no doubt about that! So thank you for that tidbit of encouragement :)

Going along with that, Nez Year=New Years Resolutions! I love making them, but have a hard time following through. I'm going to use this encouragement for help!

So, as a missionary, I have a challenge for everybody! And a prize! Did I get your attention? haha. The challenge is to read the Book of Mormon. Simple enough! You can choose a topic and look for it and highlight things about it as you read (like faith, love, the Atonement, Jesus Christ, etc.), just read it cover to cover, or whatever you want! Then, when you finish, if you let me know (by telling my family and getting me your address) I will send you something cool from France! Deal? I'll be doing it too, so I'll either be alone in my goal or be accompanied by many! But if you take up the challenge, you wont be alone because I'll be doing it!

So, I gotta get going, but I have a funny tidbit. This week a woman let us into her home and we were talking to her and she offered us a drink of water. Of course we said yes, and then she gave us each a bottle of water. My first thought was one of fear. I cant drink bottled water! It's not good for me! haha that idea got drilled into my head right before coming on my mission, and a certain someone knows who they are who got the idea stuck in my head! ;) It was a nice little reminder of back home, and they're all over the place :)

I gotta partir, but just another tidbit, if you ever don't know what to send me, PICTURES are ALWAYS awesome :)

Well, HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone! Make it the best! I'll be trying to do the same and keep up with you!

Elder Daniel Anderson

Week 12: We're Still Here!

The world didn’t end! We're still here! Pretty sweet! Now we have even more time to be awesome! So how was everyone’s week? I hope it was awesome, because mine was pretty cool haha I'm not bragging, I'm just sayin!

So, last week we were teaching an investigator, and it was the first time that we had gotten the chance to meet with him. We taught him the lesson, had a discussion with him, and gave him a Book of Mormon. We asked if for the next lesson he would read the introduction and the testimonies of the witnesses. Aaaaan then he started reading, right then and there! We weren’t sure what to do, but we let him go ahead and read if he was gonna read! So I just read the same things in my French scriptures and tried to understand the best I could. Then, once he read everything up to the start of 1 Nephi, he said that he was definitely going to read, but he was going out of town. It was awesome though, and we're definitely going to see him again.

Everyone here that we're teaching has gone out of town for the holidays, so that has made our main goal finding! But we didn’t have as much time as usual to do that this week because we had a crazy schedule...

Last Wednesday I had to go back to Paris to become legal here in France. We rode the train for a while, showed up in Paris a little early, so we hit up the Eiffel Tower, no biggy. Say whaaaat?! It was pretty nuts. We didn’t go right to it, but I have a picture you can see! (if emailing it works haha) Then I went to do my legality thing, medical exam stuff, and then got some crepes and headed back to Poitiers.

On Thursday was Zone Christmas Conference, so we were on trains going to Angers for the conference. It was kind of hectic, and definitely the first time I have ever run a mile in a suit while carrying a sandwich in one hand and a 30 pound bag in the other. It wasn’t pleasant, but we made it to the train! I should probably hit the cardio more...

The Christmas Conference was awesome! President Poznanski and his wife taught us a lot and we watched a bunch of clips from the movie Iron Will. Anyone seen it? It's a pretty sweet movie! I'd seen it a bunch of times before haha I'm pretty sure my parents have it if you want to borrow it :) We watched it because it was part of our 2013 goals for the mission. Then we had a little grub and a white elephant gift dealio where they just randomly gave the gifts out and you opened whatever you got. I got a mug, and it was obvious that a sister had brought it because it was actually a decent present haha

I've also met some very interesting people! When you go knocking on doors, you have no clue who could be behind the door, so you have to be ready for anything! If I had more time, I would share some stories, but I'll just send those in letters :)

We had a Christmas party at the Church! There were some games, and singing (in French, so I kinda didn’t get a lot of it haha) and then we had some food, and it was pretty good. They definitely like chocolate here, so that was probably my favorite part haha don’t worry, I'm watching my belly! haha ;)

So, it's Christmas Eve! We're going to 2 members homes today, and then 1 tomorrow. It'll be exciting to see what kind of grub they have! I'm excited haha

Oh, shout out to Cole Martin, congrats on getting called to serve in the Washington Everett Mission! That's so awesome! I know you'll be a great missionary!

Oh, another shout out...kinda haha it's a super good book you should read! It’s called The Broken Heart by Bruce C. Hafen. It's an inspiring book and I liked it a lot! And if you happen to have my copy of it, hopefully you don’t mind all the sloppy markings in it haha sorry! :)

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!! Have an awesome time and always make the best of it! If I were there, I would do the same with you, but I'll try to do that here too! I'll be thinking about you today and tomorrow and throughout the holidays. I miss you all a ton! Eat some American goodness for me! I'll give you a heads up on what I eat in my next email haha

Joyeux Noel! Don’t forget to smile! :)

Elder Daniel Anderson

Your Christmas present!  PICTURE TIME!!

In the MTC with my teachers: (L-R) Frere Portwood, Frere Magre, Frere Corbett, Soeur Scott

President Zimbelman (my branch President at the MTC) and I

Last Sunset at the MTC

Notre Dame with the other Elder Anderson

View from the front of the apartment in Poitiers

View from the back of the apartment in Poitiers

Giant Christmas tree in Town Square that is right by our apartment.  We walk by it everyday.

In front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris

The table at the Christmas Conference grub time!

You should be getting some more pretty soon I hope! Haha

Week 11: Keepin It Real

Bonjour! It's me, Elder Anderson! It's been another week, and it was a doozy! haha

So, I'm starting to really see the differences between here and Texas. I have traded in my flip flops, swimsuit, and pool days with friends for a scarf, coat, and umbrella. It's cold here. It rains a lot. It's an adventure! haha Camp Journey says that everyday is an adventure, and its the same way here! Just, different adventures haha but its all good!

Elder Argyle and I are also whitewashing Poitiers, so neither of us has ever been here or know anything about it, so we're doing some serious exploring. haha

We spend a lot of time contacting people in the streets of Poitiers and knocking on doors. You see and meet some interesting people! We are now teaching Jonathan, and things are going really well with him! He is really searching for the truth and our lessons have gone really well! Turns out, he plays on the city's basketball team here! Like semi pro (or, pro here in France haha) it's pretty cool! We also taught a man from Italy, and talked to a man and his wife in their house and they told us about what his father did in WWII. There are interesting people everywhere!

So, my Dad wrote me and told me that he checked out my address on Google Maps. I recommend it! Go look it up! See where I am! The streets I walk everyday! I'll send pictures of my apartment soon haha and of other cool things I've seen.

There's a music store here, and they have a guitar like the one Zac Brown has...the one that's like a Tri Cone something or other. Look it up, it's awesome. It made me think of jamming on the guitar and everyone I know who does :)

I got my first letter at my apartment here in Poitiers! It was sent on December 7th and got to me on the 13th, so not too bad! Hopefully my Mom and Pops shared the address they used with others! If not, oh well haha "Not my address, not my problem!" ;) (I hope someone catches that joke haha:) ) ...wait, I cant say that, because it is my address. Well, hopefully it gets shared now!

Oh, and I wrote my address in the post last week, but i guess my mission president also sent around my address, but he wrote it a little differently than me. Hopefully the address my mission president gave out is the one people use...I would trust him more than me haha hes french! But, if you used the address I gave out, I'm sure it'll work too, don't worry!

I'm sorry this isn't super long! I don't have a lot of time! But keep checking the mail for things fro, me, you never know when something might show up! :) I won't forget.

Keep being awesome and have a great week!

Elder Daniel Anderson

Week 10: I'm ALIVE

It's been a while huh?! Sheesh I haven't gotten to write an email in forever! Sorry! A lot has happened in the week! I hope that someone got an update about my last week; my mission president should have sent an email with a picture of me if I'm not mistaken. Oh, and hopefully some of you received stuff in the mail from me...for some, a lot haha :) If you didn't, be checking the mail! :) Anyways, my journey!

The plane ride was fine, long but bearable. Then we landed in Paris. Crazy. it was a nutso feeling! This is where I would be serving for 2 years! I would be speaking this language! (hopefully sooner than later haha) The President Poznanski and his wife welcomed us, and they're super nice! Then we headed to Paris! 

There is a small LDS chapel in Paris, just in a building, so it doesn't look much like a church. But guess what its down the street from. Notre Dame. Okay, not exactly down the street, but down the street and right around the corner. 5 minute walk. So we headed there! Eventually you will get pictures haha. It was so awesome! We did some proselyting around Paris that day; then headed to the mission presidents house. We talk trains everywhere, and on the train we met some ladies from Morocco who invited us over for food because we reminded them of their children haha. We had to decline because we had to go to bed. We went back to the mission home, chit chatted a little bit, and got ready for bed. Pictures of that will come too haha.

The next morning we headed back near Paris, to what the mission calls Consecration Hill. It was just a park...next to a castle, the birth place of King Louis XIV, and over looked all of Paris. It was pretty amazing. For anyone that will come pick me up from my mission or who will come with me here some other time; I've got a whole list of places to take you already! Get excited :) You'll get to see it all! Later that day, we did more contacting in Paris, went inside Notre Dame, and then found out where we would be serving and who would train us. Drum roollll please....

POITIERS. 

And my trainer is Elder Argyle from Pleasant Grove, Utah! Poitiers, France is near the middle of France, and one of the southern most parts of the mission. They must have known i come from a warm place, because they sent me to one of the warmer areas! But its still freezing here haha. SO. IMPORTANT. My new address is under this line. I'll be here for months, so please mail everything from now on to this new address :) If you've already sent stuff, don't worry; I'll still get it. This new address will just be faster :) and I'll get anything that was sent to the mission home (the old address) around Christmas time :) The address:

Elder Daniel Anderson (be sure to use my name like that because in France it has to have the right name on it that matches the mail boxhaha)

15 rue des Arènes Romaines

86000 Poitiers

FRANCE

We do a lot of contacting here. Street contacting, door knocking, the usual. I havent been able to do a lot because I'm realizing just how bad I am at French haha okay not THAT bad, but I have a ways to go! I'm doing what I can :) We have also taught some people! It's really cool to get to know people and see how there are so many different kinds of people! I have also eaten some stinky French cheese haha. I just had a baguette, cheese, and cured ham for dinner haha so as you can tell, I'm getting fat! NOT. All this walking is keeping me in shape! For real! So don't worry about that ;)

Oh, and some info on dearelders: if you sent me some dearelders the weekend before I left the MTC, I never got them :( And I'm not sure when I will get them...I think they'll be brought to the mission home at some point, but I don't know when. So, if you have a desire to write me a lot, find a stash of money and send me letters frequently to the new address :) If you're reading this, there's probably already something headed your way from France :) And more to come! Speaking of that. Christmas presents. I haven't been able to get any to send yet! So they'll be late :/ Sorry! I'll send some though! No doubt :) Probably little stuff, but I'm doing my best!

When I was in Texas, Sierra showed me this cereal that was like chocolate filled and she said she really liked it but didn't want to eat too much of it because she didn't want to get fat (like that would ever happen. Do you know who Sierra is? If you do, you know THAT'S crazy. She doesn't need to worry about that at all! :) ) Well, I guess Sierra would think I'm gonna get fat ;) They have Trésor cereal here with nutella flavoring in the middle. I eat them every morning. But, I'm not fat yet! I've lost weight haha that's what happens when you walk 1000 miles a day haha.

I was thinking today that I wish I had learned more guitar before I left. I should have taken the great opportunity to jam out more, and learn from people I know who can play! Hopefully when I get back they'll be willing to help me out :) I'll be a good student, I promise!! And I'd love to listen to all of the songs you write until then! :)

Well I've gotta go back out in the cold! I'll be emailing again about the same time next week, and let me know when you get the letters from me so I know how long they took to get there haha. Thanks for all of your prayers! They really do help!

à bientot!

Elder Daniel Anderson

Safely In Paris & Apartment Address

Elder Anderson's family received an e-mail from his Mission President, President Poznanski early this morning letting us know that he made it to Paris, France safely.

This is Elder Anderson with the Mission President and his wife.

Daniel is (of course) third from the left and on the other side of that sister missionary is Elder Stobbs, his old mission companion.

Left to Right: Elder Mataele, Elder Anderson, Elder Daniel Anderson, Sister Lai, Elder Stobbs, Elder Meissner, and Elder Saguibo

Yes, I said "old companion".  Elder Anderson has a new mission companion now who will be his trainer.  His name is Elder Argyle.

Wednesday morning, Elder Anderson had a mission orientation then left for his first assignment to work in Poitiers Area with his companion.

His new apartment address is:

Rés Les Arènes Romaines 15 rue des Arènes Romaines

Poitiers, 86 86000

FRA

Remember that the other address I gave you, is mission headquarters   THIS new address is his apartment where he will be for at least the next 6 weeks but probably longer.  Either way a letter will get to him but his apartment address might be faster.

No e-mail from Elder Anderson yet.  Today was probably his P-Day because that is when new blood usually gets added into the mission field and old blood goes out.  I don't know if he had time to e-mail but I'm sure we will hear from him within the next week.

Keep praying!  And as Elder Anderson always says, "Keep Improving".

Editor Post: MTC Pictures

Daniel sent me his memory stick from his flash drive so I could print him out some pictures.  He gave me permission to post some pictures so I thought before he leaves the MTC, I should post some pictures for you.

He just said, "Don't make me look like an idiot."   ....Not a chance, Daniel.

Outside the Provo, UT Temple

Provo, UT Temple

Important Address Update

Daniel's address is changing on MONDAY the 3rd of December 2012.

He is moving his missionary powers out into the mission field in Paris, France.

His new address is:

La Mission Francaise de Paris

23 Rue du Onze Novembre

78110 Le Vésinet

FRANCE

This is probably the mission office in Paris and when he gets out there, he might be physically living somewhere else, but this location will make sure that he gets the mail that is sent to him.

Week Eight: Désolé (Updated)

I'd like to start off by saying I'm sorry. I really do apologize. I've been trying to get everything sent, but Thanksgiving week was crazy here! I'll explain a little bit of that later. To add to it, the postal system is delayed because of the holiday, so anything I sent is probably still out there somewhere, they're just not moving fast enough! As part of Thanksgiving day, there was a huge humanitarian project that we worked on (that I'll explain later) and so I was in meetings during all of my free time last week because all district leaders were in charge of coordinating it and knowing how to train others.

It really kills me because I've been receiving some amazing letters this last week, and I don't want people to think I'm ignoring them! Last week I received the most incredible letter I've ever received. Vous savez qui vous etes (You know who you are) Then, when the weekend was over, I received a lot of sad ones. It made me wish I had done more. I was kind of in a funk because of it and wasn't sure where I stood or what to do. I felt like I failed and should have done more! (Which is a common feeling as a missionary) "I don't really know what to say anymore.." -> I don't want to pull a Prison Break move on this blog (because they're secret!), so I'll just say DON'T GIVE UP. Forgive me?

So, this experience taught me something. I try to learn from all my experiences the best I can! It taught me about having patience. Specifically with myself. I want to be able to do everything! Is that selfish? I guess what I mean is that I want to be able to be there for everyone, I want to help people! Sometimes I fear that if I don't spend enough time with each member of my district, that they'll feel like I'm avoiding them or that I don't like them (which is bonkers because all the members of my district are awesome). Sometimes I feel like if I don't write enough to people, that they'll forget about me or assume I'm forgetting about them or that I don't like them anymore (which is NEVER going to be the case bt dubs). Sometimes I feel like if I'm not the perfect missionary, that if I am teaching someone and they don't accept the Gospel, that it's my fault and it's on my shoulders (Which is not the case as long as I am striving to be the best I can be). I need to have more patience in myself, and remember that other people have their own agency. The members of my district can choose to trust me and believe me when I say I like them and that they're my friends, or they can choose to be offended that I spent 15 minutes talking to another elder. But that''s not my fault! And I shouldn't let that bother me! 

BUT, I can do whatever I can to help that elder know that I do care about them and that they're my friend. Just like if you are trying to help a friend or a family member make the right decision about something. If they ask for advice, and you give it to them, and you''re doing your very best to help them, then you're doing what is right! But you are NOT responsible for the decision that they end up making. That is THEIR decision. If the decision ends up going badly for them and they blame you for it, brush it off and know that you aren't responsible. Every person has to make their own decisions! Everyone has their "libre artbritre" (Agency), so you can't force anyone to make a decision, they have to make it on their own.

I''ll be putting up some scriptures (I''m a missionary haha) a little later, but I have to run to lunch first and throw some laundry in! I promise I''ll be back to finish this! I''ll always come back, ca va? (okay?)

I'm back! Alright, so back to what I was saying. 2 Nephi 10:23 says "Therefore, cheer up your hearts, and remember that ye are free to act for yourselves" C'est la vérité! (That's the truth!) Also remember that others are free to act for themselves too. So don't beat yourself up about decisions that other people make and blame yourself for it (or let others blame you). Just think and pray about how you can help them. Be there for them when they need you.

That was quite the confusing train of thoughts...sorry! Quick summary: Sometimes it's hard when you feel like you can't help people or be there for them, but you need to be patient with yourself and just keep doing your best and they will understand. And if they don't, Heavenly Father will. And don't let the blame of others get you down. Pray to Heavenly Father and ask Him what is right, because He knows and He can tell you. (Study the scriptures, because I know you know the power that's in them! :) ) So don't ever get down on yourself if you feel like you can't do it all! I'll try to do the same, because I do get down on myself about it sometimes. Wanna make a goal together? Alright, sounds like a deal :) Thank you for always inspiring me to be better!

Just a side note, SERIOUSLY, I never have too much to read. I love every single letter that I get! Whether happy or sad, because I want to really know how people are doing, not just key points of their lives! Share anything and everything you feel comfortable sharing with me :) I know I can't be "there" physically, but I can do everything I can to help! I'll try my best! I've been called to help people for the next two years, so it's my job! :) Sometimes I have a lot to write, but hey, I'll do what I can to deal with it haha just don't stop writing because you think I need less to read. That's the opposite! I love letters :) Also, if anyone wants me to write a letter to a friend they have who could relate to me or needs a pick me up, let me know! I'd be glad to. I might already have some thoughts haha

So, Thanksgiving! It was awesome. Let's see. It started off with a little morning devotional by Elder Holland and his family, then we had a....wait whaaaaaaat?! Elder Holland? Oh yeah, he came to the MTC with his family and put on a program for us haha it was awesome! Here are some key points from his talk, because I wrote too much to share it all!

-Mothers are magical

-We should all be grateful for being born when we were born.

-You have to always at least think you're gonna win!

-All ancient prophets knew they were going to lose, because they knew what was going to happen, but we know that we're going to win!

-We need to stiffen our backs and square our shoulders and get ready to tackle anything that comes our way!

-God knows our names. He helps us individually. He knows our fears, and our tears.

-Do everything that you can, so that maybe just for a second, He doesnt have to be in the wine-vat alone.

It was an incredible devotional! His grandchildren sang and some bore their testimonies, and Elder Holland said to tell our families that he was going to adopt all of us, and to let our families know haha. Don't worry, it was just for the day!

After that, we had Thanksgiving dinner and then started on the Humanitarian project! The MTC put together 4500 Health Kits and 4200 Education Kits to be sent to Mali, Africa. It was awesome! And very similar to my Eagle Project haha but it went smoothly and quickly! It was great to see how people can change lives from anywhere. Anyone could do stuff like this!

Then that night, they handed out popcorn and we watched "17 Miracles". Well sheesh, I already missed my family and my friends on Thanksgiving, and then they bring out a tear jerker movie?! Well, I think we all know how that ended for me. Thank goodness the lights were off.

It was a quite a day! And now, for some news. 6 days. That's how many I have left in this country. I leave December 3 (Next Monday) at 1:30 pm from the MTC, to get on a flight at 5:30 that flies straight to Paris. It's crazy! So the next email you get from me will be from France! Crazy........I'm still wrapping my head around it. Keep your eyes out for letters in the mail, because I'll be sending a bunch before I leave!

I hope you enjoyed this little blog entry haha and that you understood what I was trying to say. If not, then I'm sorry, and I'll make it up to you :) I promise!

Keep being all that Heavenly Father knows you can be!

A la prochaine!

Elder Daniel Anderson

Week Seven: Things Are Getting Real

Bonjour mes amis! Comment allez vous?

I know that once I say this, that I'll probably have a humbling experience, but my French is better than ever! This week it felt like I had a breakthrough and I've been able to speak a lot more and construct sentences in my head a lot better than before. That's what PVL will do to you! (That's French for "Speak Your Language". Thank goodness I didnt have to learn that in Japanese, huh Pops!) My writing isn't really top notch, but speaking is what is most important for missionaries, but I'll continue to work on all aspects of the language, don't worry! Oh, yeah. Scripture study too...haha kidding, of course I'm working on that! Our district set some awesome goals this week, and one of them is to memorize at least one scripture in French chaque jour! (errday) It's been awesome!

Last Tuesday, the Devotional here was given by Elder Bradley D. Foster of the Seventy and his wife. Here are some good quotes and ideas I got from it:

Sister Foster: "For every challenge you have, you'll be blessed. So give a 'yay!' for every blessing!"

Elder Foster: "We have eternity to think and wonder about how we've done and what we've accomplished, so don't waste a minute!"

Then they shared a film that was one of the best church films I've ever watched. I dont know the exact title, but it's called something like "The John Tanner Story". It made me cry my eyes out! Okay, not exactly....but kinda. Shuush. It's about how one man lived the law of consecration, and how he gave everything he could possibly give to help the church and other people. It reminded me a lot of some people in my life that I want to be just like when I'm all grown up. Yes, I just said that. When I'm all grown up haha. Try and find the film! It's incredible! And if you've seen it, share with me what you thought of it!

From the Fireseide here on Sunday I learned "DON'T GIVE AN INCH!" and that it is how to be successful in your mission and in life. Don't make exceptions, no matter how small, and you'll accelerate your improvement. I'm definitely going to be applying that to my studying! And exercise...I won't get into that haha but the speaker (President McIff from the MTC Presidency) also said to remember "The race goes to the steady, not the swift", so it's a learning process. He also said not to tear yourself or others down, but be meticulously building something beautiful. Are you a wrecking ball, or an architect? (To yourself, or others) It's easy to be a wrecking ball, but it takes skill and patience to build something beautiful :) Just food for thought! It all goes back to my analogies that I've made about running in previous posts. It doesn't happen overnight! You have to consistently work hard, and then you'll be the most beautiful person imaginable! :) (I'll work on it too. I have to start somewhere haha)

My district hosted new missionaries coming into the MTC this week! That was a lot of fun! I help host an elder going to Guatemala and a sister going to Wisconsin. It was crazy to relive that day (yet again hahaha) and to see how different people handle it! It also was a realization that I'm among the elders who have been at the MTC the longest, and that I'll be heading to France in just 2 weeks...crazy. Also, they dont bring missionaries into the MTC the day before Thanksgiving, so they had double the usual amount of incoming missionaries last Wednesday. It was hectic!

So. Apparently this last weekend, some friends of mine were in Provo. Not just any friends. Like, my best friends. Say whaaaaat?! Nah, I knew all about it. And guess who else did! Heavenly Father. I had District Leader meetings galore, so I was crazy busy! So, it kept my mind off of all the fun they were having without me a little bit. A little bit. haha I really hope they all had a good time! It's just a little preview of how it'll be when I get back! Having a blast in Utah! Mark my words! haha seriously though, I love you guys and hope you had a blast!

I've got a sore knee from jumping up and swatting shots like crazy in gym, so hopefully that feels better soon! If you're feeling under the weather, I hope you get better soon too! I'm a missionary, so I cant kiss it better, but peut etre plus tard haha

Keep being awesome!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Elder Daniel Anderson

Week Six: Just When I Thought Things Were Getting Easier

So, I've been here at the MTC for a while now. I've liked it my entire time here! My language skills are improving, my testimony has been strengthened everyday, and I can feel the love of my Heavenly Father more than ever! Not to mention, I'm jumping higher than ever and I'm in the best shape of my life! Okay...not really, but I'm trying to stay in shape the best I can! Both spiritually and physically haha.

The title of this is "Just when I thought things were getting easier", so, here is why: I've been made the District Leader. Who would have thought it would change my experience here so much! (Okay, probably everyone but me knew that haha) It's been a trip to say the least. Meetings all the time, checking on people, putting everyone before me. It ain't easy! But it's worth it. I've already seen the blessings from it! It eats into a lot of my personal time haha but I'm still making sure that I have time to write in my journal and to people, don't worry :) I just get the opportunity to help people more than I did before, and I love that!

Sacrament meeting on Sunday was really really nice. The Spirit was so strong and everyone could feel it. I got to pass the sacrament too! It's been many many years (because I'm such an old guy haha) since I last got to do that, and my companion and I loved it! Then, at the end of the meeting, my district sang a special musical number ("Oui, je crois en Christ" and "Dieu soit avec toi jusqu'u revoir"...."I Believe in Christ" and "God Be With You Till We Meet Again"). It was such great experience and such a great way to invite the Spirit. If you sang a special musical number in church on Sunday too, then great minds really do think alike! Or....there's more to it than that :) Plus, my voice really isn't super good, so your singing was probably 1,000x better than mine haha tis the truth! :)

In Sacrament Meeting, Sister Cannon spoke to us about the Spirit and strengthening our testimonies. One thing she said that really hit me was that there is no "Spiritual Insanity" workout or "spiritual shake" that can give us the quick fix to a strong testimony. We have to work hard at it daily! For example, if someone (especially someone like me) decided that they just wanted to go out and run 5 miles, then probably wouldnt be able to do it. I know for a fact that I wouldnt be able to! But, if that person decided to run everyday to help strengthen themselves, and everyday pushed themselves to be better and better, then they WOULD be able to reach a 5 mile run! (Which is incredible. That would beat me by a long shot, that's for sure.) And if that's the best that they've ever done, way to go! Celebrate! If you're able to run 5 miles, then you're looking good, so props to you! ;) That's what I would do haha but then I would have to make sure I kept working hard! We have to do the same thing with our "spiritual muscles". We have to exercise them daily to keep them strong and get stronger, and help the people around us to do the same thing!

One more interesting thing that I learned in church is that God is consistent. Sometimes when we pray for help for big things, we feel like we should be getting a big answer. I know I'm guilty of that! And sometimes a big answer DOES come! But I know that I need to remember that big or small, He will answer our prayers often in the same way. He will bless us with whatever we really need at that moment, because He knows us perfectly and can help us perfectly.

Well, I gotta run. You know, do missionary stuff! But I'm thinking about you all the time and I hope you're doing your best to BE THE BEST.

Never stop improving!

Elder Daniel Anderson

P.S. Some elders in my district were looking at pictures on my camera, and I had to beat them off of someone in some of the pictures. They understood. I made them. BUT, they decided to take a fancy to someone else in the pictures instead, and wrote them. Just a head's up. That's the real story.

P.S. Elder Stobbs says "Hi" haha

Week 5: Where I've Never Gone Before!

Well, I made it! I've been here over a month! Every day is further than I've ever gone! Longer than I've ever done this! Crazy right? Well, it's awesome. I've got a lot to say so bear with me!

I saw Elder Chris Kim a few weeks ago and forgot to mention it! I saw him in the cafeteria and I walked toward him and said "Elder Kim!" and he looked at me like he had no idea who I was haha then he recognized me, but I knew he didnt remember my name, and the first thing out of his mouth was "How old are you?!" hahaha thanks Chris! It was funny though, and then we talked a couple more times before he left haha.

A member of our Branch Presidency is going on a mission! To Paris, France haha him and his wife are super excited! Now he got to trade in his "Brother Harward" tag for an "Elder Harward" tag, so when I saw him and his wife in the cafeteria for the first time I said "So you decided to join the ranks!" and he got a kick out of it haha then he asked me for all the inside info on how my district is doing haha. Then at church on Sunday, after fast and Testimony meeting I was walking by and he said "Salut!" which is the informal way of saying hello in French (Which missionaries dont do too often unless they're good friends) and so I said "Salut" back and we talked for a little bit. He said he was excited to see me in Paris! Him and his wife are super cool!

So this Sunday was Fast Sunday, and so I decided to bear my testimony. So if you decided to bear your testimony this last Sunday too, then great minds think alike! :) And yes, mine was in French. So, I went up there, not 100% sure of what I was going to say, but it went pretty well :)

Here's what I said:

"Bonjour, je m'appel Elder Anderson, l'autre Elder Anderson. Je suis reconnaisant pour cet occasion d'etre ici dans la MTC, parce que nous pouvons apprendre plus choses ici que nous pouvons apprendre aucun autre place. Je sais que l'Eglise de Jesus-Christ des Saints des Derniers Jours est la vraie eglise sur la terre. Je sais que Jesus-Christ a souffert et mouri pour nos peches, et pour nos douleurs, nos afflictions, et nos epreuves aussi. Je sais que si nous nous appuyons en Jesus-Christ, et suivre l'exemple de Jesus-Christ, nous pouvons retourner a Dieu encore. Je sais que Dieu et Jesus-Christ nous aiment. Je sais que Dieu veut nous aide. Je sais que nous sommes ici pour un raison, et nous pouvons etre le meilleur. Au nom de Jesus-Christ, Amen."

I said a few more things, but that was pretty much it. Because I'm typing on a computer without accent keys and I know you'll try to google translate it and it'll get messed up (and because my French is far from perfect haha) I'll translate:

"Hello, my name is Elder Anderson, the other Elder Anderson (There is another Elder Anderson in my district from Rigby, ID). I am grateful for this opportunity to be here in the MTC, because we can learn more here than we can learn any other place. I know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the true church on the earth. I know that Jesus Christ suffered and died for our sins, and for our pains, our afflictions, and our trials too. I know that if we rely on Jesus Christ and follow the example of Jesus Christ, we can return to God again. I know that God and Jesus Christ love us. I know that God wants to help us. I knows that we are here for a reason, and we can be the best. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen."

That's my testimony and I know it's true :)

In a fireside that someone gave on Tuesday, he told a story about when he was a mission president and some journal entries that an elder shared with him that he says are pretty similar for all missionaries. This is how they went:

Month 1: What am I doing here? How am I supposed to learn a language and like people that I dont even know?!

Month 2: I miss my friends and my mom's cooking. I've been eating mac and cheese for two weeks.

Month 3: Mom you said that you would keep my room exactly the same until I got home! Now my brother has moved into it.

Month 4: Not only has my brother stolen my room, but now he's stolen my girlfriend! 

(Daniel speaking: Yeah I don't think I need to worry about this one haha)

It was a pretty funny story hahaha but he said that we really need to care about the people we teach and really want to help them change! We're going through changes at the same time as they are, so we can help them!

You should study the words to "Did You Think To Pray". It's an amazing song and has been on my mind a lot lately. NO MATTER WHAT, we can always pray! I know in my life, sometimes I don't feel like praying. I feel like I deserve how I feel, or I need to feel how I feel, so I don't ask for help. That's the wrong idea and I learned that!

Sometimes we doubt things. Why things happened a certain way, why they didnt happen a different way, why did they have to happen to me, or why are they happening right now? There are endless examples. Everyone has doubts at some point, it's understandable! One thing I learned in a devotional this week is "When we feed ourselves negative things (meaning negative thought, actions, or speech), then we are inviting Satan into our lives." That hit me like a rock! Sheesh! Now, doubts are understandable, but we need to know how to overcome them! Anyone know the answer? I know you do! Focus on the Savior and you will have happiness. If you focus on all that the Savior has done for you, then you will know that you can, and should be happy! You all know that though, you're better than me!

The tender mercies of the Lord are everywhere! Even if it's just the prompting to send something to someone out of the blue, and it turns out to change their entire week :) Thank goodness for the Spirit!

Be the best you can be everyone! I love you all! And I love all the letters!

Never stop improving!

Elder Daniel Anderson

Week Foe

So, week four. Or "foe". Not like it's an enemy or anything, it must just be the French accent kicking in haha not really, but my French accent is getting even better than it was, if I do say so myself! So, you can all look forward to that! ;) haha

Elder Larry Echo Hawk gave a devotional here last Tuesday! It was so great! He also said that a couple weeks ago he was in Houston! I don't know if any of you knew that, but he was there for a mission conference that involved 3 missions...so pretty big! Anyways, he spoke about trusting in the Book of Mormon. A very interesting topic! Very enlightening too, it made me create some new goals! I'm sure some of you will find out more specifically what they are, but they are about really diving into the book. Elder Echo Hawk told a story of how he used to sleep through priests quorum meetings when he was younger, then someone took him under their wing and helped him become who he is today. First though, he became super good football player (Markus, we should look into this. Haha we could rock some peeps! He was only 165 lbs and played 4 years starting at BYU! haha). He talked a lot about football, so that was exciting to explain to my English companion haha he started to understand it a little. He expressed that the Book of Mormon can change lives. We all know that though, right?? But do we utilize the Book of Mormon for that purpose? "Yeah I read a little in it everyday". He said that was enough! We need to really study it, like we would study at school! It's like I've been taking a "Book of Mormon intro" class my whole life, and for how long I've been taking the class, I don't think I know it as well as I should! So, as a missionary who has to commit people, will YOU commit to reading the Book of Mormon more? And pray about it's truth? Allez-vous lire le Livre de Mormon? Et allez-vous prier savoir la vérité de toutes choses dans le livre? (My French ain't perfect, so don't judge haha)

I was very surprised at how many family members tried to find that poem from last week in French for me! Maybe Elder Holland was wrong...or maybe you didnt search hard enough! I'm just teasing haha it's fine! Maybe after I master the English version, I can tackle the French version haha

Predicament: Here I am, in the MTC (and in San Francisco a couple weeks ago), with my little Canon Powershot ELPH 100HS (just thought I would clarify that hahaha) and guess what. They don't print pictures here at the MTC. Anymore. They used to. I know they did. But now they don't. I will come up with a solution, don't you worry!

I got an awesome package early last week! It was last Thursday! And it had been sent on Monday I think, so that was pretty fast! It had a bunch of pictures and a bunch of reminders from home in it, I loved it! Now I have a picture of Tye Smith, who woulda thunk that I would have a picture on my desk of him! It threw my companion for a loop haha he was a little confused, especially with the pose that Tye is doing haha that picture is hilarious, but it wasnt my favorite one :) Then I got another package from mah Moms! Those ginger snaps were sooo good. My district ate em up like they were...delicious? haha sorry, my english vocab is struggling haha they were so good!

Just a side note, no one, I mean NO ONE, ever think that you are bothering me by writing to me. It doesnt distract me! I'm given an hour at the end of everyday to read them and relax :) So, it's not a problem, they knew I would need that time. And I use it and love it! This poor boy needs them letters!

I hope everyone is rockin the world! Being awesome examples and doing the Lord's will! That's where happiness comes from!

You're all the best! I'm thinking about you!

Elder Daniel Anderson

Troisieme Semaine (Third Week)

You know the best part about being a missionary? Okay, maybe not the best part, but a super great part? Wearing the missionary tag. It's got my name on it! More importantly, it has the name of Jesus Christ (mine actually says Jésus-Christ) on it, which really changes the way you are. Before being on a mission, I honestly thought that it would be a little uncomfortable to be in public and being that upfront about my beliefs. You literally have them posted on your chest! Then I went to San Francisco. What an experience! I even surprised myself! I was more open and interested in talking to people than I was before! I thought it would be difficult, but the Lord strengthened my weaknesses, and showed me that I can do this! Another thing I learned is that not being able to wear my missionary tag is a terrible experience. I love having this tag! I'm so glad I have it! 

As I thought about it though, I should live my life, no matter what, in a way that is like I have a missionary tag on my chest. People should be able to tell that I'm LDS! Just taking off the missionary tag doesnt mean you get to hide and blend into the crowd. You can make a difference, no matter who you are or what your circumstances are! Anyone can invite others to come unto Christ, share their beliefs, do what they know is right. That's something that I've noticed with some of my friends that I have back in Texas. They did what was right and they set a good example for others, even if the situation might be a little awkward. Romans 1:16! Live by it!

We watched a recorded Devotional that was given by Elder Holland years ago, and it was an amazing devotional! One part he mentioned was a poem that basically said

"Come to the edge" he said.

"No I'll fall"

"Come to the edge!" he said.

"No I'll fall"

"Come to the EDGE!" he said.

I went to the edge. He pushed me,

And I flew.

The point of the poem that Elder Holland made was that "Man's extremity is God's opportunity." When we push ourselves to our absolute max, God will know that we have done everything we can, and He will help us reach greater heights. For example, if you were running, and you pushed yourself as hard as you thought you could, and didnt think you could go any further, but then you break through that barrier and get the best run in since the beginning of summer, that's like how God can help us power through our trials and questions that we might have. It's incredible!

The poem is actually a translation from a French poem, so if someone wants to send me the French version that would be awesome!

An interesting note, my district has turned into an acapella group. No joke. We're pretty good too! We get quite a few compliments from around the MTC...never thought I'd be involved in something like that did you?! haha

Also, I got my first handwritten letter yesterday, October 22, 2012. It was a VERY special day! I LOVE all the letters I get, but there is just something about a handwritten letter!

Everyone, keep up the good work. Never stop improving!

Elder Daniel Anderson

Week Deux!

No vacation this week. Stayed at MTC. They feed me on occasion. Surviving. Letters from the outside world are helping me stay sane. I'm sending my love to all those who have written.

Okay, so I'm doing fantastic! No, I didn't have a vacation this week, but my week was still awesome! We started teaching a new "investigator" (l'ami de l'eglise) and his name is Juan. He's from Mexico. Strange scenario, right? Who cares! We teach everyone and anyone! But of course, he speaks French just like one of my instructors here...weird haha. Anyways, yes they feed me! It's all you can eat! And I've still lost weight...don't worry Mom, I'm not so stressed that I don't eat or anything! I'm just trying to eat slightly healthy...but with out the same workout regiment, the little muscles I had are starting to go! Okay not really, but I'm gonna have to start hitting the push ups, sit ups, and pull ups hard so that people still recognize me when I get home! I'd rather not walk off the plane, into the airport, towards the welcome home party, and no one recognize me...I'm sure a few still would though haha.

Letters from the outside world are helping me stay sane. That's no joke! Not that I'm going insane, but sometimes I get stressed out a little, or worried about people, and it's always great to here how they are doing. Even if it's not always that they're the happiest they've ever been. Does that sound weird? I just love knowing how people are really doing. Maybe it's the missionary in me! I want to help everyone and invite them to come unto Christ! That's where true happiness is. So, don't be afraid to write me because you think I might have too much to read or too much going on. I LOVE THEM. I love all the letters!  So yes, I am definitely sending my love to all those who have written to me :) I want to read it all! So when in doubt, write!

So since being here at the MTC, I've seen or met with President Brown, President Brady (yeah!), President Zimbelman, Brother Mangum, and Brother Harward. They all remembered me and they all were so excited to see me! And I was excited to see them! There are some more details to each one of those stories, so if you're interested, you can write me and ask about it ;) haha. Oh, also, one of the teachers for french here seems to recognize me haha a couple days ago she said hi to me and asked how I was doing in a way that I'm sure she remembers haha. Oh, and this older lady who looked at my immunizations sheet (which I did not bring with me, so I told the lady "Uh...I think I'm already in the system...I'm just came back) was so excited for me! She was really nice haha. So my companion thinks I'm a celebrity or something haha.

Our district plays volleyball together everyday for gym, so I've gotten alright at it. At least, good enough for the elders to duck and cover when I spike it haha multiple people have come up and asked where I played at before my mission...uh, black light volleyball and after Institute? haha I just thought I'd toot my own horn a bit haha

My district was blown away when they found out how old I am haha that was pretty funny! My district is completely different than the last one. If you want some details, then write me haha I'm running out of time here!

While I've been here at the MTC, a ton of praying has been going on. Fo real. Praying for people here, praying for the people I'll be teaching, praying for people back home, praying praying praying. And you know something that I've learned a lot about? That prayers are answered. Without a doubt. We just have to keep our eyes open, and we will see the hand of the Lord in our lives.

Did you know, when you watch the Little Mermaid in French, that the chef is Italian, instead of French? We didnt watch it, that's just a tidbit that our teacher told us haha

Oh, another interesting tidbit. So, my companion is from England. Guess who his young men's president is. Martin Reed. Say whaaaaaaaaaaat! Crazy.

We watched "Joseph Smith: Prophet of the Restoration" on Sunday night. It's an incredible movie. Go watch it, I'm pretty sure it's on the church website. Then write me and let me know what you think :)"We're not just building the Lord a temple, the Lord is building us." and "Perhaps I am meant to swim in deep water. Better deep than shallow." were just a couple of many amazing lines. The Spirit felt during that movie is incredible!

Lastly, a very dear friend of mine challenged me this last week to go up to the first person I saw, and talk to them for a few minutes and get to know them. Well, the challenge was accepted, and dominated. So that person will have a challenge coming right back at them when they get the letter that I write to them today! Not only did I get to know that one person more (Elder Johnson from Holladay, UT) but I've gotten to know many more people. Not that I wasn't a friendly person before, but I was a little reserved. That's not how missionaries are! So now, I try to be a friend to everyone I meet :) But of course, these new peeps aren't going to replace the incredible friends that I have already :)

Well, I gotta wrap it up! I hope everyone is doing fantastic! Spread the Gospel!

Keep your head up and keep smiling :)

Elder Anderson

Week Numero Uno

Note From The Editor:  I totally lied to you yesterday!  His P-Day is Tuesday but it looks like he was busy...like missionaries tend to be.

For the second time...I got a DearElder this week that pointed that out haha it made me laugh really hard! Anyways, the first week was awesome! Just so everyone knows, my P-day is on Tuesday's. Why am I writing an email on Wednesday you might ask?

Well, it's because they decided to send me on vacation on my P-day to Saaan Fraaaancisco! Price is Right style. I'll get to that in a bit though, I'll give a quick update on the rest of my week first.

So the first day was a lot more interesting than I thought it would be...I was expecting to handle it like a champ! Instead, I handled it like a baby. Okay not really, but it was a whole new experience, which was amazing. I love the MTC, it's seriously such an awesome place. Anyways, my companion is Elder Stobbs, he's from England! He's a really cool guy and we get along great! Not to mention we teach like champs! At least we try to haha he's picking up the language super fast! I'm doing my best haha I guess I know enough.
My teachers have said a couple times "How many years of French did you take?" It's a nice pick-me-up!

My district loves to play volleyball together, so we have fun with that every gym time. Once again, I just do my best haha. General Conference was amazing...can I get an "Aah yeah!"?! Wow, what an experience to hear an announcement about missionary service ages changing to 18 for men and 19 for women! Especially while being in the MTC! Hearing 2,500 missionaries cheer is pretty cool! Not to mention the Spirit is felt so strongly here, it's so amazing. General Conference was great, I loved Elder Christopherson's talk, President Eyring's in Priesthood, and President Monson's in the Prieshood session...I think. "Be a man!", the carving talk, and "seeing people as they can become, not as they are."

 So, San Francisco. I was told on Monday that the next day we would be going to San Francisco, and to be ready by 5 am the next morning. No problemo! It was a little rough getting up at 4:20, but it was worth it! I travelled with 4 other elders and getting to the French Consulate was a cinch. Funny tidbit: the driver was the same one as last time haha. Anyways, so we go in to get our visas, and we're sitting and waiting. I'm writing a letter while I wait, and I get a feeling like I should put it away for now because I can write more later. Right as I put it away, a woman behind me taps me on the shoulder and says "I have a question I think you can help me with." Saaaay whaaaaat. MIssionary dream!  So, turns out she is from Jamaica, and is in her 30's, and she had a cousin that was having a rough time. So I talked to her for a while, telling her that God loves all of His children and other gospel principles. Then I had to go up to get my visa, so other missionaries took over, but she kept looking up at me while I was at the visa counter as they talked. So when I was done, I went back over to her to talk some more, and then before we left, I gave her a Book of Mormon. With a pass-along card in it. For the first time in my life. What an experience! She said "This is for me? Really?" and I said "Yeah, we'd like to give this to you. I know that as you and your cousin read and pray, that God will answer the questions that you have." And that was that. Then we had to leave. But she was super nice and grateful for it! So, in the MTC for less than a week, one Book of Mormon given out. A few more people came up to me to talk yesterday, it was really cool!

Then we went to eat lunch at Pier 39, had some clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl, and then hit up the Golden Gate Bridge, took pictures, and talked to some more people! Amazing.

Then we came back to the MTC. Kind of sad, but kind of nice. I mean, otherwise I wouldn't have a way to write this! But, I'm gonna have to cut it off because I'm running out of time...sorry! You'll be hearing from me in a week! Just a thought, sometimes life gets tough, and things don't go our way, and it seems like there's no hope! Like when you first get to the MTC, there's a lot of adjusting. BUT, D&C 121: 7-9. "Thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment", "if thou endure it well...thou shalt triumph over all thy foes", "Thy friends do stand by thee, and they shall hail thee again with warm hearts and friendly hands." I have a lot of people in my life to thank for those same things. So, thank you. A la prochaine!

Letter From the Editor

This is Katrina (Daniel's sister) checking in for him!  It looks like his P-day is Thursday and we didn't get an e-mail from him this week!!

Don't worry...I'll have words with him!

Until then, I've updated his address in the MTC so that you can go ahead and send him letters and things while he is in there!  I'm sure that he would LOVE to hear from you!

I speak for all of us when I say that we are so proud of him!!!

His current address is:

Elder Daniel Grant Anderson

MTC Mailbox #231

FRA-PAR 1203

2005 N 900 E
Provo, UT 84604-1793