Monday, March 20th

Cam:  Good morning mom.

Mom:  Hey Cam...  I forgot to tell you in my e-mail that yesterday I received a text that read:

Sister Jensen, It's the Elders.  What are you doing at 7;00pm? Can we come over? Elder Iola   My birthday today and we have nothing to do so figure we will come visit you guys! And share our massage?
I'm pretty sure he meant message... ha!  I made a cake and we sang and had him blow out candles. They also gave us a wonderful message on the atonement.

Well? Are you staying or being transferred?

Cam: That's cool about the Elders. Both Elder Perez and I are staying.  Elder Neves called me and is pretty upset.  He is going home. Even though he doesn't know where home is.  He went to the doctor and his knee is worse. The doctor said he needs to go to a gym to strengthen it but we can't go to the gyms in this mission. The doctor said his knee can be ruined.  He talked to the president and president said to go home.  He told him that he completed his mission and the work he needed to do.  He will return home with honor.  He leaves tomorrow.  He has no where to go.  He said he will just go to a hotel until he finds somewhere to stay.

Mom:  I am glad you are staying.  That will be good. This kills me about Neves.  What about his brother?

Cam:  He lives in another state that is clear on the south end of Brazil.

Mom: Is there something I can do for him?

Cam:  I don't know what you can do but ask him.  He will still have his e-mail for awhile and plans on getting a hold of you guys tomorrow.  He still wants to plan to come live with you guys in July. He doesn't know where to go in between now and then.  He said his goal for July is to have his visa and travel there.  He is worried how he will get the money for the plane ticket though.

Mom:  My friend/co-worker came in to my class today and said how she felt the desire to donate if needed.  I was so touched... Both grandparents have offered too.  The plane ticket won't keep him from coming, that's for sure.

Cam:  Wow!  That's nice!

Mom:  How are you with staying where you're at?

Cam:  I am good with staying.  I am tired of moving. When you send a package can you go to the mall to the tie shop and buy paisley ties?  They are $8 there.  Get some colorful ones but ones that I will wear.  Can you send me a few of my hats?  I want to give them to a member here that wants them.

Mom:  I can do that. I'll take a picture of your hats and you can tell me which ones you want me to send.  What treats do you want?

Cam:  That's great.  I don't care what treats, just lots please.

Mom:  Tell me about your week.

Cam;  This week was fine.  We marked 2 baptisms.  1 is for first of July.  Her name is Alice.  She has been going to church for 3 months but her mom wouldn't sign the papers to be baptized but now she will. Then there is Letissia who is 18 and she has a son who is 5 months.  Her husband (that she isn't married to) is an inactive member and we marked her for April 15th.

Mom:  Cam!  What a great week!  I am proud.  JJ is coming tonight.  Jeanette said that he mentions you in his prayers at night.  That makes my heart melt.  Did Neves e-mail you to tell you he was leaving?

Cam:  JJ is the best.  No, Neves called me.

Mom;  How was he on the phone?  Thanks for being an example and a friend to him.  You are what all that he has and will change his life.  That's worth your mission right there.  Is it still way hot?  It's officially Spring today.  Charlie helped me clean the garage Saturday... NOT!  But she did have fun!

Cam:  He seemed worried but he is convinced to get there.  He is determined and has faith so I know it will happen.

Mom:  I am glad he's determined. Did you get Kassie's e-mail?  She went and saw Tysen and got a picture with him to tease  you with.

Cam:  Oh Kassie!  Yeah she sent that e-mail.  I talked to Tysen and he said she is cute and nice.

Mom:  Did you hear about the missionary that grabbed the gun from some robbers and threw it over the fence and then started going after the guy.  Luckily he got to leave that area.

Cam:  Yeah I saw the video!

Mom:  Cameron L don't you ever do that!!!

Cam: Ha! Ha! ok mom

Mom:  Does that other boy go with you and Elder Perez often, When does he go on his mission.

Cam:  Yes he goes in July.

Mom:  Did you see the picture  of Brigham City with Love's Gas Station?

Cam:  Yeah it is really changing.

Mom:   What is you favorite thing about your location now?

Cam:  I like the country instead of the city.

Mom:  How are you doing Cam?

Cam;  I'm fine.

Mom:  I can't wait for the day you say I am GREAT!

Cam:  Ya, I'm just fine though but hope by the end I am Great.  If not I will say GREAT when I hug you mom...

Mom:  I  know son.  Thank you for your honesty but also your devotion to keep going!

Cam:  I gotta go.  Have a good week!  I love you a lot!

Mom:  I love you!  Be good!  Be safe!!

                                                                                                                                                                  

Trading shirts with a member.  He wanted my church shirt and I wanted this shirt because it says the city's name where we are at.

Vicosa (where I am located now)

 Me with this little boy we call Nay Nay.  One day he likes me and then next day he hates me. ha!

                                                                                                                             
                                                                                                                                                 
Hello Everyone,

This week was good but just a normal one.  We just worked in the hot sun.  We marked some baptisms for April so we will continue working with them to help them grow.  We were teaching in the Book of Mormon in Alma and I want to share a thought from Alma himself.  Alma is preaching to the poor and he talks about faith being like a tree. We can do certain things to help the tree to grow rather than just sit around waiting for it to grow by itself.  Our faith is like that and with faith and diligence our faith grows and give us fruits like a tree.  We all need to do things everyday to strengthen our faith and it will give us fruits in our lives.  Transfers are this week.  Me and Elder Perez are both staying here together in Vicosa.


I hope you all have a good week.

Elder Jensen                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

























                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       

March 13, 2017

GROUP E-MAIL:

Hello everyone.  Sorry I forgot to send a group email last week.  So this week we had a great opportunity to hear from Elder D. Todd Christoffersen from the quorum of the 12 and some others from the 70.  Elder Robins from the 70 talked about faith and how when we have faith it leads to actions and how our actions brings knowledge to us. Elder Christoffersen talked about how we are the instruments of the lords work.  He does the work and we are the instruments that bring the work to the people.  He also talked about how repentance isn't for everyone to be perfect but to put on the armor of god.  This was one of the best experiences that I have had to hear from some of gods apostles.  I know that they are chosen from God. Here in a few weeks we have an opportunity to hear from them in conference. We all need to prepare and listen to them.  One thing that I find helpful that I'd suggest you do is to write some questions that you have in your life and listen to these prophets with those questions  in your mind and I  know that they will be answered.  I love this gospel and the happiness and knowledge that it brings to my life. I love all of you guys for your support. 

sorry these are the only pictures I have. I will do better this week and take more. Have a great week!

photos:

This my district I am the only American, there is one from Cape Verde, Africa one from El Salvador then the rest from Brazil.  

E-MAILS:

Mom:  Ok, telll lme about Elder Christoffersen.  What did he talk about?  Was his wife with him? How was staying in Maceio?  Where did you stay?  How many nights?

Cam:  We staying in Colina so I visited some people.  The devotional was awesome.  There was 3 from the 70 plus Elder Christofferesen.  They also had their wives.

Mom:  Who were the 3?

Cam:  Elder Robins from the presidency of the 70, Elder Bassett who is in the presidency of area of Brazil, and Elder Atunes.

Mom:  What day was it?  How many nights did you stay?

Cam:  It was Saturday and we just stayed there Friday night.

Mom:  How was your jacket?  Did you see Zack and Neves?

Cam:  It's good to have my jacket.  I saw Zack and Neves both.  This week Neves was sad.  President told him he can't get his visa in his mission.  He will need to go home first to get it.  Neves said/asked, "Where is home"?   He doesn't have a home mom.

Mom:  Oh but he does.  Why can't he come straight here.  Is there something we can do?  That breaks my heart.

Cam:  I don't know why President said no.  But, it is supposed to be easier in Rio De Janiero to get one so maybe this is a blessing.

Mom:  So, is that where he is going?

Cam:  It is close to his state and their are only certain states that give visas.

Mom:  You're right about it being a blessing!  It will work out.  We will stay in touch with him.

The Gunderson reunion is officially off.   Grandpa John arranged Smith Trout Farm and sent out information for family to respond to.  He didn't get any responses so it's cancelled unless someone else spear heads it.

Mark's dad has Hospice coming in and isn't doing well at all.

Cam:  That is sad for Mark but better for his dad.

Mom;  Ya, he knows that but it is still very hard.

Cameron met with the Stake Presidency and they talked about what needed to be done for him to be ready and he will finish up and go next week.

How are your investigators?

Cam:  It is sad but better,  None of our investigators are very promising... That is good for Cam!

Mom:  He is a good boy!  Totally doing things to prepare himself for this step.  I can't wait for them to get their calls.  Almost a year since you got yours.  Darius is going to hit the year mark.

Cam:  Yeah I know, it's so crazy...

Mom:  Did you have a good week?

Cam:  Yeah it was better!

Mom:  I am proud of you!  You will be so happy you've served your mission!  I miss you.

Cam:  I hope so.  I miss  you too!

Mom:  I know so.  Tell me what appointments you have or are going to make to teach teach some people.

Cam;  We will plan tomorrow.

Mom: How is your companion, Perez?

Cam:  He is really good.  I like him a lot.

Mom;  When do you get your new mission president?  Have you heard anything about him?

Cam:  I think it could be in May?  I have heard a good things about him.

Mom:  Are you excited? Grandma Marge is struggling from surgery.  I hope this surgery pays off for her. Holly will have her baby in like a month!  How is your ward?

Cam:  Yeah I know.  I know that is crazy.  The branch is fine.

Mom:  Are you still playing soccer with the branch?

Cam:  Not as much as I was.

Mom:  Make sure to send a group e-mail and pictures.  So many people were sad and miss you.

Cam:  Yeah.  I don't know why I forgot last week.

Mom:  I  hope this week you tell me more about the people.  I like to make connections and be able to pray for you.  I talked with Remfrey over text.  The new missionaries text the other night too.  The Tongan is so cute and funny.  Grandpa John is going to send you some cruise pictures.  Gordon has been limping again.  I will send pictures of the new Loves gas station and the water bottle company by grandpas pasture.  Chris Reeder asked about you yesterday.  He said he will sure miss you.  Cheer is over and tryouts are next week.  Crazy...  you just graduated and now these kids will be going to college and on missions.  Halle will try out for Freshman volleyball in August.  I just worry so much about dad at work, you in Brazil, and these girls growing up with crazy choices to make...

Cam:  Dang time has past! They are both good girls mom and you don't need to worry. Dad will be safe too.

Mom: Thanks Cameron!  Both those sisters love and miss you more than I think they thought they would.  BTW Reese misses you too. ( :   I am lucky to be a mom to such awesome kiddos!  I am thankful for the gospel Cameron and I don't know where I'd be in life without it.  Even when I wasn't active my relationship with Heavenly Father helped me through a lot.  I worry about you kids because of some of the choices I made and just want to make life easier for you all.  I know how great you are and I am extremely proud.  Now share that smile and strong beliefs with those people and let them feel it from you.  Dad always said your personality would do so much out in the field and he was/is right! 

Cam:  Thanks mom! I love you.  I appreciate all you do for us.  I hope you have a great week!  I love you.  Talk to you soon...

March 6, 2017

Cam:  Hi mom, it looks like you had fun with the missionaries.

Mom:  The Tongan elder was hilarious!  The Elder from Arizona was nice too.  We had a few days of spring weather and now there's snow this morning.  I love you!

Cam: Utah Weather. I love and miss you!

Mom: What went on this week?

Cam:  Not very much.  We played soccer twice this week with the branch.

Mom: Oh, good!  How was that? Are you still liking the branch?

Cam:  Yeah it's good.  We have some investigators that aren't the firmest.

Mom:  I guess you just offer opportunities or times when they could feel the spirit.  Like yesterday I felt it in almost all of sacrament meeting. Everyone mentioned missionaries or missionary work and that is how the spirit touches me right now in my life.  Of course I cried... You didn't write your newsletter to give to Becky. I typed it for you (I just went through e-mails and letters to highlight certain content) and e-mailed to her. You should just write a little each week and take a picture of it.  

Cam:  Ya, I will write one for this month.  When is it due?

Nicole:  The end of March.  How is your belly situation?

Cam:  It is a little better. 

Mom:  When is Brother Christofferson coming?

Cam:  He comes on Saturday.

Mom; So, when will you go there?  Will you spend the night?  Do you know if you got your suit coat?

Cam: Yes, they said it came but I have to pay like $100 to get it!

Mom:  Wow!  Just do it.  I wish dad and I would've known to not put clothes on the claim.  Pay it though.  It cost to buy, send, and now it's there so finish off the journey.  Plus you need it.

Cam: O.K. 

Mom:  So, do you get to go early and spend the night in Maceio?

Cam:  Yes I do.  Oh, I forgot to tell you but I talked last Sunday in church.

Mom:  What did you talk about?  Who asked you?

Cam:  The president of the branch asked me and I talked on family history.

Mom:  Were you nervous?  How is the language?

Cam:  I was a little nervous but I'm doing pretty good with the language.

Mom: Good!  Charlie stole Grandpa Leon's shoes last Sunday.  Marge had surgery and is a little down.  Grandpa John and Grammy got home last night.

Cam:  Ha! Ha!  Charlie!!!  I hope grandma is feeling better and the surgery is successful. I hope Grandpa and Grammy's cruise was awesome...

Mom: We get to skype with you really soon!!!  I can't believe it. It is so nice to have these things to look forward to.  I want some names and information on the people.  It helps me feel like I know what is going on with you and I can pray for those people too. 

Cam:  hahaha! We have a gay guy stalking us...

Mom: What? How is he stalking you?

Cam: Well, he was following us the other night and wants us to come have dinner with him.  I am just going to play it safe and group an army of young men to go with us.

Mom:  How do you know he isn't interested in the church?  Be kind but just let him know you're not gay.  It's hard with all this in the world now but at the same time they need love and kindness too. Maybe your message is what he needs in his life.

Cam:  I knew you would say that... O.K.

Mom:  I love that you are staying close to heavenly father and praying about all these people.  You're making a difference even when you don't baptize people.  You are an example to everyone here and there.  Most importantly you are shaping yourself as a hubby and father. Now, that's so weird to think...  Although I'll be the best grandma ever!!! Now tell me at least five good things about this transfer.

Cam: 1) I like the area and the people 2) It's a farm area  3) There is a grocery store really close 4) I finally have a clean house 5) I like my companion, Elder Perez

Mom: Are you still excited for us to come and get you? We are excited to see all of these amazing people.

Cam:  Very excited. I have got to go,  love you, have a good week, love you...

Mom:  I LOVE you son!!!

Monday, February 27, 2017

Cam: Love you

Mom: Hey there, I love you!

Cam: Annie's cake looks good.

Mom:  Coco gets baptized on March 4th.  Do you remember Austin Taylor?  Well, he was in a car accident and passed away.  He has two kids and a baby on the way.  It breaks my heart...  Tracy lost her husband and now a son.  Thankful they will see each other again.

Cam:  That is so sad.  Dad and I talked to him for a long time when we rode up to Willard Peak with Brad.  

Mom:  It's very sad.  So, tell me about some members or non-members that you've got to know.

Cam:  I am good friends with Jefferson and Junior.  I also like Fabio and his family a lot.

Mom:  Which one is preparing for a mission? Tell me about the rest of them. 

Cam:  Junior is preparing for a mission.  He goes with us a lot.  Jefferson is 21 and doesn't want to go on a mission.  He has a girlfriend and wants to get married. Fabio is married to Luciene and the have 3 kids.  The kids are Junior 14, Vitoria 13, and Kayce that is 10.

Mom:  I can't wait to meet them.  Did Annie tell you about the other accident that happened?

Cam:  Yes, Annie told me.  I am glad they are o.k.  I can't believe that.

Mom: Annie got her young womanhood award yesterday and Halle isn't too far behind her.

Cam:  That's good.  

Mom:  Is it still way hot there?  When is Carnival?

Cam:  It is so hot.  Carnival is going on right now. I am going to go. I love you have a good week. Love you!

Mom:  I love you!  Have a good week!

Hello Everyone,

This week was good. To start things off on Tuesday we had lunch with a great family. We had a district meeting Wednesday in Maceio. It was good. We had a great training and talked about things we needed too. We got back and just worked like normal. Carnival started Saturday and there have been many parades around town for the last couple of days. An experience we had this week was a member was having some doubts from lies that people told her about the church. We helped her realize the truth. However, one thing I learned is that people are always going to attack the church. Therefore, we need to work every day to strengthen our testimony about the true church. Then when they attack the church, we will be unshakeable. I hope you all have a great week!

The Elder laying down goes home in 3 weeks so we did a picture since he is dying in the mission

burning my tie for 6 months 

I am in the River Paraíba and this is all that is last of the river. It is all dried up!

 Me and Fabiano Junior that is preparing to serve a mission and goes with us.