Your gonna want to read this one.

I really only have one story for you today, and it is pretty long so I will just get started, but small side note first. I have a new companion and we were in the MTC together ( which in a MTC of twenty six people is actually a pretty big deal) His name is Elder Jack from Zimbabwe.

Anywho here we go.

Story: "I am an idiot" - Elder Tucker

So since this week was my companions last week on mission.  It was mostly spent visiting the people we had become close with and him giving some departing words of advice.  Also we have been trying to get a youth activity done before Elder Ochieng went, which we did.  So we went and visited all the youths of our branch, got an activity planned to play some games and eat food and watch a movie called FREETOWN. (fantastic movie, 10/10 would definitely recommend it  to a friend.) So at the activity we played some games, and had fun. MY team lost in almost everything except musical chairs, but it was still super fun. But while we were playing the games i put my bag and keys on the table.  Well sometime during the party my bag and the keys were moved. I was under the impression that my companion took the keys and put them in his pocket, needless to say I was wrong.  After cleaning the church and getting a Matatu back to our house, about thirty minutes away. I asked my comp to open the gate.  His reply was thus, "I don't have the keys, I thought you had them." After a minute of panicking we devised a plan, on how to break into the house. the next hour and a half is as follows:

 After a few unsuccessful attempts at breaking the back door lock, and turning my weight lifting bar into a cane, we decided to take the door off the hinges ( also not possible).  So we decided to very carefully take off one of the the windows on the door, then work from there.  After trying to carefully take it off, we gave up and just broke it.  Then we found out a way to undo the deadbolts, and finally got inside, ate, then figured that the keys were at the church so we would grab them at sacrament meeting the next day, and went to bed.

Here is where I become an idiot.  We get to the church and look for the keys, no where to be found.  I am now feeling like an idiot, wondering what the heck we are gonna do.  And a little boy comes and sits by me and empties my bag looking for sweets.  Guess what he finds at the very bottom of my bag.....A SWEET! AND THE KEYS!  so in the whole process of breaking into the house it did not occur to me once to check my flipping bag for the keys. Yeah I face palmed pretty hard, then laughed silently to myself for the next twenty minutes, cause I am pretty sure my mind is gone.

That's how I learned, that sometimes the answer to your problem is literally inches from your hands and you have no idea unless you look.

Have a great week, love you guys, and try to keep a hold of your keys

Elder Tucker 

I thought he wasn't able to write then I found this! He had attached this to a letter I had written which Jeron had also responded. Happy Tears flowed.

Mom

I am alive and well we have to be in 20 min. Had a long day but we were helping a member.

I did want to send you a story this week which reminded me of you.  So here Christmas isn't super big.  No one has decorations up and I rarely hear Christmas songs.  But I went into the supermarket the other day to grab some stuff for dinner and they were playing a song from your Christmas list. It was one about peace part of it was "everyone would have a friend, and right would always win, and love would never end". I don't know the name but I remember you listened to it a lot. I walked in and had a crazy big flash back to making soup while you got ready for work listening to that song. I only thought I was standing there for a few seconds, but apparently it was like three minutes.  Because a worker came and tapped me on the shoulder to ask if I was okay, cause I had just walked in and been staring at milk for the last few minutes.  However when he tapped me on the shoulder I jumped and cause I was crazy startled and threw the loaf of bread I had in my hand.  It was a really interesting few minutes.  But long story short, I miss you mom.

Anyways I love you lots and hope this week is great. Ter

"In or out? In...out? or possibly waiting at the door?"

Titile is a paraphrased quote from the movie "The Ringer".  I think it is what is going on in our assistants minds sometimes.  This week we had some political unrest, but they wouldn't tell us if we were inside or not till about ten-o-clock, when we should already be done planning and then going out to proselyte but hey, whacha gonna do, anyways stories!

Number 1: "We aren't crazy, no not crazy at all"- Elder Tucker quietly speaking to himself

To be completely honest with you guys, sometimes mission and the heat just fries your brain. Most people who know me or have been in a math class with me know that I tend to talk to myself when working out things.  So while standing at a Matatu stage planning for what to do since we got bounce. I was talking it out and this little boy and his mom walked by, and the little boy asked the mom in Swahili, "Why is the crazy mzungu talking to himself?" then I just started laughing which didn't help my cause.... I could be a little more gone than I thought.

Number 2: Perching

So ever since I was a little kid I have really liked high places. I like to sit and think I call it perching. Most of my flats have a high place to sit and just talk with god, and admire the world.  Well yesterday I just wanted some quiet, some me time.  Yes missionaries like that sometimes.  So like usual I climbed the water tower, and was admiring the stars( which by the way are beautiful in Africa, cause less lights).  But my companion thought I had gone to the bedroom.  So he locked the doors and then accidentally fell asleep on the couch, leaving me locked outside. When he goes to sleep, he goes down hard, but after ringing the doorbell for like ten minutes.  I was finally able to get in the house.

Sorry my stories aren't super awesome this week like they are normally, but honestly this week was pretty boring, so my choices were a little limited haha, Sometimes a mission gets really boring.

Elder Tucker

(Mom is not happy with the perching-will be praying for being busy with missionary work and keeping his feet on the ground.) 

"We are all on our way to heaven, then Satan comes along and he farts"-my companion

The quote for this week comes from my companion.  I could tell you the background but to be completely honest it would take a whole lot of explaining which I don't want to do.

So sorry about no email last week, we were put inside again cause people are being stupid, but now things should be okay. I reached a year so that was super fun!! I know all you guys want to hear are some of my stories, so here you go....

1: "You have heard of face cake...."

Well on the day of my year mark we had a very interesting turn of events.  NO I did not get face cake, rather I got face.  While we were coming back from proselyting this guy was holding a bash for his daughter or something, and they had slaughtered like four goats.  He came out with four super charred goat heads, and asked if we wanted one.  So we said "yeah, then we went home and I ate goat face and soup to celebrate my halfway mark.  That was interesting but now I can cook goat head.

I miss you all. It goes in phases, some days I want to be a missionary more than anything. Then other days I want to go home, listen to music and eat some fetching donuts. Good days are like 7/1 ratio, I love it here. I have no idea what I will be doing for Christmas. I do know I will have a new companion because my companion will be going home. 

2:  PASTORS!

This week we have gotten a lot of referrals from the system.  And a memorable call from some sister missionaries in Utah ( I asked, they said "they didn't want to wait for me").  Anyways so when we meet with all these referrals, we find out that like three quarters of them are pastors.  I don't know what the lord has planned but they are fantastic investigators, they always do the reading.  They always pray and so far we actually haven't had to bash with any of them!

Other highlights of the week, we went to a Chapapti party, which was awesome cause chapati is the food of the gods.  And we had two confirmations! whoo!  On the downside I lost my camera somewhere between here and Nairobi, so no pictures sorry.  I I put it in my small proselyting bag. We busy rushing around and I didn't need anything til nightfall. Then I looked and found a huge hole in my bag, my camera, mp3 and USB were gone. Maybe ripped on the Matatu or  something. We retraced our steps but couldn't find it. It may be a few weeks before I can get another one. Have a great week you guys!

Sincerely,

Elder Tucker

Sheltering in Place. Would you Could you pray for peace?

"WHAT IS HAPPENING TO ME? MANGOS!" -me

This quote was from earlier in the week, I wish I could tell you that I took this conversation with myself out of context but I can't. This was honestly my though process for most of this week.  Instead of story time today; I am actually going tell you about some very nice things from from the week. Remember I am in Kenya, and don't judge.

HIGHLIGHTS

1 Mangos: it is now mango season in my area, and for those of you who don't quite understand.  In the Kenya Narobi Misson there are some landmark time periods that most missions look forward to. Like for some missions it is Christmas for snow, and music, etc.  We look forward to Mangos, and they are so delicious.

2. Cold cereal: this week I had cold cereal twice! I just really like cereal, but i usually don't buy it cause it is a little expensive, but this week I said "SCREW IT" and I bought a small bag of cold cereal it was nice!

3. Cold(ish): It's rainy season here now so the temperature is right around sixty five seventy all the time, which at home would feel awesome, and is a great break from the heat. However my body is not used to the lower temperatures yet. I rarely leave  the house without my jacket, and wear a hoody when at home.  I don't know why but it has been freezing to me.

4. Sunsets: I don't know why but the sunsets this week has been absolutely awesome.  So pretty.  I am not the best photographer but I tried to get a couple. I will send them badai.

5. Scriptures:

I finished reading the Old Testament, Pearl of Great Price, 75 sections of the D & C, and  250 pages of Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith.

Those are some of the nice things that I was able to enjoy this week.  Especially the mangos, mangos are so good.  Just everyone needs to thank god in their prayers today for mangos, that would be great.

HAVE FUN! and always remember, goat's are devil agents (for more information ask Fuller)

Elder Tucker

JAVA, free FETCHIN JAVA! Elder H.

I will explain the subject in a little bit cause it was one of the only stories that happened since i last wrote to you guys.  So sorry but it hasn't been a full week and stories have been lacking other than..... "FREE FETCHIN JAVA!"-Elder H.

Here is the explanation

JAVA HOUSE: (j-ah-vah  h-ow-s) proper noun 1. A Resturant located in most cities in kenya, that is crazy stupid expenisive and practically off limits for missionaries if they want to surive the month

FREE: (fah-ree) adjective I think.  1 no cost. i.e. FREE JAVA

So here is how we got this amazing blessing from the lord.  I was on splits with Elder H. ( the only British missionary in Kenya and Tanzania)  and we were trying to meet this lady.  So whilst trying to figure out where to meet she said a JAVA HOUSE.  We thought well frick, we better not be eating there we can't afford that.  We agreed though, then we met her at the JAVA and she was like "lets go in".  Then me and elder H.  were a little worried, but when she sat down she said, "Thanks so much for meeting with me elders, it means a lot to me, lunch is on me!" SO WE GOT FREE JAVA!  after being locked in a flat for a week it was a nice blessing.  Don't worry we got the cheapest things we could, but the food was amazing!

That's about it,  transfers were this week, I am staying in Naivasha/Nakuru, for another one with Elder O. so we will hopefully have some more fun adventures.

Elder O. is close to finishing his mission. I know he is feeling a little stressed as to what to do now. Could you pray for him? 53 more emails til we are through, get to talk to you next month!

tutaonaneni badai(see our father) 

Elder Teron

LOCKDOWN (Season 2)

Sorry it has been a minute, we have been experiencing some "issues" here in Kenya.  But we are hoping that for the most part they are done, and that we can get back to a normal-ish mission life.  (Cause being completely normal is just boring. so to keep from being boring you find Stories!

Story 1: Schedule

So due to the election repeat here in Kenya we have been on lockdown, again.  This time I had some experience keeping myself busy and entertained.  We realized after a couple days of trial and error we finally found the perfect lockdown schedule.  Requirements: semi big compound to run intervals at, person to run with, kids who like to play football(soccer), and a couch that when you sleep on it you get weird dreams.

here's the routine (times can be adjusted, but only slightly)

6:30-7:59 wake up, then move to dream couch for scripture study and continue sleeping

8:00- 10:29 wake up for real, then either run around the compound with your running buddy/ do an arms workout till you can hardly move, abs, push ups, and pull ups

10:30-10:59 lie on the ground, contemplating life and other things ( like motivation to get up and do stuff)

11-11:19 wake up again ( if you fell asleep), shower, get sweats on

11:20-11:59 eat small brunch

12-1:59 football with the compound kids

2-3:59 lunch, and nap

4-6:29 football again

6:30-10:30 argue about what to eat for a while.  Make food, eat said food, clean the house, contemplate life some more, beat stories, slowly fall asleep on dream couch, then go to bed.

repeat.

Story 2: Trick or Stampede

So me and the other mzungu in the flat wanted to celebrate at least a little bit Halloween, so we got a bag of candy from a little D

uka, then trained a few kids to say "Trick or Treat" then we would give them candy.  We thought it was just going to be like three or four of the compound kids.  WE WERE WRONG!!  The three we trained to say trick or treat, went and bragged that they got sweeties! Within like five minutes, of giving them the candy we had like fifteen kids at the door yelling TRICK OR TREAT! We thought alright two pieces of candy for each kid.  As soon as I opened the door, all of them at the same time: rush me blast through the door, steal all our candy, and my biscuits, and disappear.  Leaving some kids with like twelve pieces, some with none, biscuit crums everywhere, and just plain madness outside of our flat.  There is a reason they don't celebrate Halloween in Kenya, now I know.  And I need more biscuits.

I will share some pictures in a little. Have a great week! 

Drive fast, take chances.(A Trucking Tucker started this saying. Mom who doesn't like either idea.)

Elder Tucker

P.S. it would be awesome if i could get some emails from you guys, cause I honestly have no idea what is going on over there, or with your lives, so hit me up with an email, or just say hi, that'd be cool yeah bye. 

First name.last name@myldsmail.net

Football compound selfies. These guys are a party. Elder H. eating my biscuits. 

Mom's title pray for peace.

Hey mom,

I am emailing at the couples so I am going to keep this short. I am very safe.  We are at Upperhill in Nairobi, it has been not too peaceful but it has been another election.  We don't know when we will be able to go outside again.  But we have plenty of food, and I am having a great time with the other Elders. 

Since neither of you are very forth coming with actual information regarding your missions I am going to give you guys a questionnaire. Love your Big Bro.

How long have you been out?

1. What city are you in? 
2. Who is your companion? 
1. Where is he from? 
2. How long has he been out?
3. Common interests? 
4. How are you getting along?
3. Tell me about one member in your branch
4. Tell me about one investigator
5. Tell me the weirdest thing you have eaten thus far

Bro. not much time so I am just going to answer your questions and send you off. Sorry, but I am using the couples computer, and don't want to be a bother to them. 

1.I have been in Kenya for almost eleven months, on my mission for almost a year now.

2. I am currently serving in Naivasha/Nakuru.  In the rift valley zone of Kenya Nairobi Mission.

3.  My comp is named Elder O. he is from Kenya, specifically Eldoret,  He goes home in December. Common interests are we both enjoy cooking and football, he likes mostly the Kenyan league a team called Goramiha.  We have had our ups and downs, but for the most part we do okay. 

4.  One member in my branch is named R.M.  I baptized him last September.  He works on the flower farms.  He likes to teach me kikisii, and he is very tall.  He has three kids, and they are some of my best friends in the branch especially the youngest one, she likes to take my Nametag and pretend to be a missionary.

5.Investigator I have is Sister C.she is hilarious!  She loves the gospel, appointments are fun. She will hopefully be baptized soon, she has to meet with president first.

6. Hands down, goat testicles. nuff said.  They taste a lot like liver.

Hope that satisfies.

"Going with the armpit"-Me

You know what, I am not even going to give you guys the context of the statement.  Just know Matatus can get very interesting especially in Naivasha.  HaHa.

Anyways how is everyone doing? I hope you are all doing great.  Excuse me for a second, the phone is ringing....

Sorry that was just one of my investigators reminding me that its STORY TIME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Welcome one and all:

Story number 1: That's right, I did it, the unthinkable...

So while working this week, we had some time to kill between appointments, so I took the opportunity to do my absolute favorite activity, contacting.  Now when I contact I go hard, no one gets by without a book, a card or at least a firm handshake.  This lady comes up to me all dressed in this pink suit with a super wide brim hat.  My first thought, she is a pastor.  I almost was right. Well I ask her if she wants a book, she said "not right now, but she wants to give me one".  I don't play the whole something for nothing game unless its me giving you the book so after about ten minutes of her saying she was a JW and what she believed, I took a book.  Then in thirty seconds, summed up everything she said, with a little help from good old Joe Smith.  Then She took a book!  I took hers as well, BUT I SUCCESSFULLY CONTACTED A JEHOVAH'S WITNESS! This has been a goal on my mission since I have started, so put a big CHECK on that item. Now on to riding a wild zebra...don't tell mom.

Story number 2:  The church is falling!

No not what you think.  The church is still true, no apostasy.  But literally the building where we meet in Nakuru, was hit by a semi truck, and half the building collapsed, we were actually in our other zone.  SO one of our friends, called us asking if we were all safe, and such then told us the church building was hit and crashed to the ground.  Interestingly enough, the actual church we use is only on half the building, and on the third floor.  Well so all of the property the church owned, is still standing and everyone was safe, no members were injured cause it fell after the meetings. Luckily, No one died! The baptismal font which was on the roof, somehow surfed down the rubble and is totally fine.  Yeah that was interesting, church is true.

I am still having fun and loving it here.  Same as always.

Have a great week,

Elder Tucker


Hey momma, 

As for me I am doing okay, our area isn't locked down so we actually had a normal work week kinda. All things safe here. Election Friday so I don't know what is going to happen.  

Love you lots, Teron

So whats up guys?  To be completely honest this week has been uber boring cause we have had to be inside a lot, but that should be ending soon so that will be nice. But I still was able to get some stories for you guys, cause honestly this is the highlight of my week.  Other than sacrament of course;)

First story!

"Flashbacks"

SO this week we were blessed to have zone conference.  I however had been sick so I hadn't slept very much for the two days prior; so I ended up falling asleep through half of it, then getting in trouble afterward for sleeping. Mission president didn't think that President Uchtdorf's quote fit the circumstances.  But for some reason as we were about to leave, we all had a flash back to when I swan dived in the rain, and it started pouring. Some of the missionaries who witnessed my beautiful clumsiness the first time started asking me, "So Tucker we going swimming again today?"  I just laughed and then went and splashed in the puddles like a four year old and I loved it!

Story number 2

Cars

So no we are still a walking mission, but I have really missed the feeling of driving a car recently.  So with nothing to do inside, all day.  I usually sit in my chair and go all speed racer and pretend I am in the grand prix race.  It has been great.  While doing this my companion came out and just watched my for like four minutes disapprovingly, then stated "Are you honestly nineteen?"  I just looked at him and said "he could join if he wants".  He didn't want to join.   As for the outcome I came in third.  I wasn't really into it,  but I qualified for next years race. So I will let you know how it goes.  I have to fix my car though which will take a while, you know us small business racers don't have all the perks of the sponsored ones.

Anyways have a great week guys.

Elder Tucker

Hey Momma,

That is a whole lot of questions but I will try to answer them best I can.  I feel pretty safe, the people here are peaceful and don't want any violence, but we will see near the end of next week how it goes.  The police are using tear gas for the riots, the opposition we hear is using bees.( Teron didn't know how because he is on lockdown. His brother figured out how and it doesn't sound good.) 

Yes I can most definitely see the spirit of Christ in the work, the more you try to be like Christ the more you are blessed, maybe with investigators, but mostly with your attitude.  I honestly don't know but I am hoping that I have, only time will tell. 

Technically yes, the members are average people, but members a lot of the time they are better prepared. The spirit seems to help with their lives, I guess.

Things are alright, but the lock downs are killing me cause I have read every Liahona magazine we have in the flat.  But I am making it okay.  I love teaching though its great.

I hope things are great in utah even though California is up in flames, I will pray for rain.  Love you lots and miss you. Ter

Please pray for a peaceful end to this election. Missionaries are sheltering in place til after the election, Teron's least favorite thing to do is shelter in place. 

"Hey Mzungu! You like Baboons?" Matatu Driver

So now we are back to my usual shinnanagins ( yes I know I spelled that wrong; let's just say I did it on purpose).  So this week I have been riding in cars a lot, missing conference, and walking, but I still managed to create some fun adventures. so just think a happy thought, and HERE WE GO!!!!!!

Story number one: Subject quote

So while on our way to a new small town in our zone, we happened to come by a family of baboons, some of them were HUGE, like up to my chest and stacked!  So the conductor saw I was a little taken back, so he proceeds to ask me said question, then he takes a bunch of rocks he had collected and threw them at the baboons.  The Matatu was stopped. All the baboons start running at the Matau and smacking it and trying to open the windows, to get back at the dude hitting them with rocks. Then the guy was fighting to keep the windows closed so they wouldn't get in, he looks at me and says "I like to make them mad!".  So I understand why now Jane was scared when being chased by baboons, they have large fangs, and are very easily agitated.

Story number two: Straight up G!

So you might be thinking I am about to talk about some poser gangster I met while contacting, well you are.....WRONG!  We got bounced by our appointments when heading to what should've been the Saturday session of conference ( long story short, it was Saturday session, just not this years.)  While walking to our church, which is by the way about three hours walk away from where we stay, I met a GIRAFFE! I talked to him for a second but he wouldn't come close to the road cause he was busy eating. I did get a good picture. Which I will try to send next week cause I forgot my cable today (pole).  Super cool though, giraffes are pretty.

There were other fun stories this week like meeting green lantern.  One of my favorite members has a bright neon green and black suit, it is legit.  And solving a rubiks cube like 150 times cause we were locked in the flat Monday and Friday.  Also that is why I am emailing today, don't worry not apostate.

Anyways have a great week! 

Elder Tucker

Hopefully tomorrow. Mandatory Lock-downs

Sheltering in place Monday and Friday. "Til Elections are over and protests are finished."

Well, this week I have had a question on my mind "Why the heck can mission be a hard thing, it is for the lord right?".  After a lot of thought on this and some Eyring and Holland talks I found; I have come to the conclusion that mission can be difficult because of... the microwave.  Yes the microwave, for more on the microwave theory you can talk to my father, or email me back.  

(Microwave story per mom. Grandpa Tucker was at the Utah State Fair and he saw a demonstration of the microwave. He raised his hand and asked the presenter "what is your hurry?". His theory is instant gratification all started with the microwave.)

 

Mostly it comes down to reward.  If you take for example a job like ski instructor.  It can be very difficult.  Kids are cold, and crying.  They half the time won't stand up, forcing you to do a backwards wedge all the way down the mountain.  But you keep doing it cause you know you will be paid.  It is almost always promised if you do the work you will be paid in, two weeks or four weeks, or after the lesson is over, you can expect it.

However in mission, there is no reward right off the bat.  You work seven days a week, roughly 11 hrs a day teaching people.  You can do this every day and see absolutely nothing.  There is no guarantee that you will baptize every other week, or even ever other month.  It is hard to see the results of our work while you are out here.  We slave away sometimes accomplishing what feels like nothing, but here is the interesting part.

We only work for two years, now again with no guarantee. We are rejected mocked and tossed out sometimes, but we continue to push through.  Because there was a man who did this for twenty one years (roughly).  Who also had no guarantee except, that many people would reject him and that they would not follow him.  He was despised, rejected, beaten, bruised, broken, slapped, spit on, denied, mocked, condemned, and eventually he was crucified. That of course was Jesus Christ, and even though all this happened to him he kept going.  I know that Jesus is the Christ and that he is our Savior and Redeemer.  I want everyone i know to know that i know he lives and loves us. I know he will come again, in his name, even Jesus Christ, amen.

Thank you very much, till next week 

Elder Tucker

( In Swahili)Watch me mess with this mzungu"-some dude(also in Swahili) "Watch me mess with this African"-me

So what happened following this little incident, was this dude's jaw hit the floor, then I gave him and his friends pamphlets and taught them about god's love for them.  I don't know if they really understood what was happening, cause here was this white guy from america teaching them in their language but it was nice for me.  Anywho stories!

story 1: "look mom, i am a car!"-also me

So here in Kenya people don't know how to walk or drive, so pretty much you can walk anywhere or drive anywhere, including the sidewalks.  As well a lot of the time it is faster to walk in the road rather than try to navigate the people.  This week while walking through Nairobi I was feeling like having some fun. I walked in the middle of the road (traffic was at a standstill) and made race car noises, drifted around corners, it was super fun.  I got a lot of great looks, then some dude on the street started to follow me and pretend to be my conductor.  I love it when people play along with the game.

Story 2: Giraffes!

So while we were riding through the area of south lake in Naivasha, there are a lot of game parks.  but it is interesting because a lot of the time the animals like to get out and do there own thing.  Most of the time it is like zebras, the occasional impala. This time however there is this freakin HUGE giraffe just walking down the road, like it was a normal day, sadly the car was faster than my hands so I couldn't get a picture.  But still a cool thing, sometimes you forget you are in Africa then BAM some super weird thing happens and you are like, yo! I am in Kenya, totally spaced out there for like three weeks.  It is a fun time.

Anyways i am sure this email is full of typing and grammar errors (as mine do) but i went exceptionally fast today, so to all the english students who read this and kringe, but its what you get.

Have a great week, drive fast take chances

Elder Tucker

Mom,

Why do all the cool things keep happening in other people's mission? Would you stop praying so I can have some cool things too. Just kidding mom praying for all my friends, and those in the hurricanes, mud slides, and earthquakes. I will stay safe so you don't freak out. Or at least if I don't I will make sure the other elders know not to tell you if you happen to go out to lunch with them. 

I have done the dishes for 2 weeks. ( no one even asked me to) Can you believe that I have become a grown up. The president is making changes he opened 5 areas this and closed 4 that I know of. 

Otherwise I am having fun, keeping sane, learning about charity and humility.  I have been reading the book of Isaiah. Which is super confusing cause you have to keep up with 3 different time periods. 1) When he was receiving revelation. 2 The birth of Christ 3. The second coming. Interestingly enough, a lot of the circumstances apply for all 3. So it makes reading fun.  Teron

If she aint waiting, what is she doing at my homecoming!? Elder S.

So as elders, a lot of times we end up talking about girls, no surprise.  And at one point in the conversation, someone said something to the effect of "what if the girl you wanted to marry came to your homecoming with her fiance?"  title was Elder S.s response. After saying that I fell on the floor it was great. Well, let's get to some stories, sound good? Great, lets go.

Numero 1: "She better be freakin beautiful, Heavenly Father, we are talking jaw on the floor"- Elder S. as well
  

So this week I got to do exchanges with Elder S. so that is why he gets two quotes, he is a super fun dude, and he is slowly teaching me some xhosa; so I can have a basic conversation with my brother when I see him.  So we were in this appointment and we were teaching this mama about the plan of salvation,  and it started to rain a little.  We thought, little rain no big deal, so we finished the lesson, and had to go somewhere about an hour away. we had  a fifteen to twenty minute walk to the Matatu stage.  It was lightly raining, so we started leaving, and as soon as we get to the "Point Of No Return" from the house, it started to POUR. This was how Elder S. decided to respond to god's little joke.  On the bright side while seeking some shelter under a tree, we contacted a very nice old man, who is really excited to learn the restored gospel.

Numero 2: "Hey I know her!" -Me
  

 One of the perks of coming from Utah is that you sometimes get to see your friends in the Liahona or Ensign.  The Liahona and Ensigns are worshiped here, they are worth more than gold.  Usually you read it then use the pictures to decorate things like books, planners, scripture cases, etc.  Well, the October issue showed up and as always, we got one and looked for friends/beautiful girls.  And one of the elders, just got super excited and said "Guys, look at this gorgeous one!" followed by all of us running over to look at the picture.  Only come to find out it was none other than my best friend Lino! so shout out for 1. Looking GORGEOUS. 2. Having a fantastic answer on the importance of service.

That about somes it up for the week, have a good one, or two, or three.  But not four remember we are on a diet here.

Elder Tucker

Today is 9/11 NEVER FORGET

I would like to start off this email on a more serious note. I am so proud to be an American, it is fantastic.  Yes I love Kenya, and the people here, and it has become home for me.  But I will always remember where I am from and how much I truly love my country. I am very happy to come from such a great land, a land of freedom, and double bacon cheeseburgers.  We truly are blessed.  I thank all those who have served, are serving, or plan to serve to defend that freedom.  Now with that out of the way, (voice of miss frizzle) Its Storytime!!!

Story 1: "Here, no there, nope, put it back a little, nevermind"- Sister P.

So this week was mission tour with the area authorities.  We happened to be visited by Elder P.  He gave the "Then beholding him, loved him talk", great guy.  He talked to us about our purpose and while we are here, and all this cool missionary stuff that you guys don't really want to hear about, but it was awesome! The funny part was setting up the meeting. Me and about three other elders were helping the sisters set the chairs up and stuff, and we had to move rooms like three times.  Finally after moving all the tables and chairs, we got situated, then they came in and said "Thanks for all your help but we are going to the institute classroom, its already been set up, good work though!"  Needless to say it was fun to play musical rooms with the sisters.

Story 2: "You.... mormon!" - some guy on the street.

So here not many people really know we are called Mormons.  I thought it was funny because 1, he knew our nickname, and two he sounded exactly like the dude out of "Baptists at our Barbeque".  So when I heard this I broke down laughing my head off as he chased us down the street.  Turns out he has met us before, and needs help understanding the Book of Mormon more.  Funny guy.  Super interested though.

Well that is all I can really think of for this week. Due to the internet here, I don't think I can send any pictures.

Insert funny catchphrase probably from a sixties super hero show

Elder Tucker AWAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY

Welp this week has been pretty darn awesome.  I honestly can't complain, here in Kenya you don't get packages super often, so when they come its like Christmas. I got one this week and it was great here are the highlights.

Item 1: Goldfish

Now anyone who has ever talked to me for more than a minute knows that I am addicted to goldfish, in the package was in fact Three Cotsco bags of goldfish.  After finding said goldfish I proceeded to open the bag and lay down on the floor of the church, and feast open little cheesy crackers until my interview with president rolled around. It was magnificent.

Item 2: Baking goods

So my flat in this mission is one of kind living in it is a privilege. You see we live next to a deserted couples flat, and the mission told us they were closing it down.  So we did what every normal 19 year old missionaries living in Kenya would do, we ransacked everything and took all that we can lift, which includes but is not limited to, a clothes dryer, a washing machine (broken, don't worry Le Chem, I will keep my promise, hands only.)a few rugs, posters, new study desks, chairs, and finally AN OVEN.  In the package was brownie mix and muffin mix. Yesterday I made brownies from an oven for the first time in almost ten months. they were amazing, i drank them with milk in a bag, and it was great.  Also to show respect for my trainer ( cause I know he would've loved to be there), I cleaned the bowl with my magic tony the tiger spoon we fished out of a rice krispies box my first day in Kenya.  It too was magnificent.

Item 3: Double Stuff Oreos

Here in Kenya, regular oreos are pretty easy to come by, however double stuffed oreos are more precious to some of us mzungus than gold.  After opening the package of the delicious cookies, we ceremoniously passed them around the district and all thoroughly enjoyed, the chocolate icing. It too was magnificent. 

These were some of the highlights of my box, funny thing though, my body is used to african food now so after eating the brownies, I felt super sick, but it was soooooooooooo worth it.  It has been so long since I've had good brownies. I have most of them in a tupperware so I can share them with my district today.

Had an awesome baptism this week as well.

Elder Tucker

Momma-

Ok before you freak out let me give you the details of the whole Kenya politics.  The government as of now is Jubilee, mostly made of a tribe called the Kikuyu's.  The tribe I was adopted into. They have been in power for about ten years.  Now the other two major tribes the Luo's and the Luya's don't like giving the power to the Kikuyu's because they don't help all of Kenya as much as they help the Kikuyu's.  So when Jubilee won the election it went to court, and it was found out that somehow Jubilee cheated and rigged the election.  So another election will be held in two months because of the evidence found against Jubilee.  Mostly people have been super happy about it, and those who support Jubilee, have been peaceful so really everyone is safe and fine, there is no problem whatsoever as of now. We are all safe. Teron

"WAAAAAALLLLK PLEASE!!!!!!!"-Elder Tucker

So this week was pretty norm, most of our appointments bounced us, so we did a ton of contacting, however I do have a couple funny stories for you, cause to be honest some contacting stories are great.

Number 1: Once a guard always a guard

One of our investigators we met with was near a pool (not very common in Kenya). It was very nice though, and brought back some good memories. However, I had a crazy bad flash back cause this little girl, gets out of the pool and goes booking it down the deck; without even thinking I went into guard mode, and yelled "WALK PLEASE!" This not only made the girl look but about three quarters of the people in the pool all looked at this white dude yelling at this little kid to not run on the deck. To make matters worse I said this in the middle of the lesson while the investigator was reading from the Book of Mormon.  So my companion and her are just staring at me.  I guess some habits never die. On the bright side nobody else ran the whole time I was there.

Number 2: 'Is this man is a preacher, he needs the restoration' - Elder Ochieng

So whilst in our crazy amount of contacting, my companion and found a park where all these pastors from different faiths come and take turns preaching to all the people in the park.  What my companion likes to do is we will go, listen (most the time they are really good sermons), maybe learn something or two, then when they finish we go give them a restoration pamphlet.  So far this week I have met an apostle (self acclaimed) , about 3 preachers, and one lady who gets paid to pray in public.  We told her that that practice was not really good and referred her to Mathew chapter 6.  But other than that very successful, one even came to church, so that was cool!

Also congrats to all the awesome performances at Grass Relays this week. Keep up the good work!

Dubiously

Elder Tucker

Mom,

You were not supposed to hear about the building, that was supposed to stay between the siblings. But if you have to know 1. I really wanted to climb the building 2. We had to to get in the house, that was the only way. 3. No one else could do it. 4. I would rather risk my life than someone else's, 5. My comp was going to catch me. Plus that was like six months ago. Teron

(This was in response to a "Howler"(Harry Potter reference screaming letter)-Do not ever, ALWAYS SEE TO SAFETY FIRST. In the words of Teron's Coach Zach "Teron, no just No" said while shaking his head. Teron had wanted to play on the indoor flying trapeze at the Olympic Oval between his track events. 

His twin did the same thing up 3 stories, near the same week, 6 months ago. But "he had 4 missionaries holding the ladder ,so he was safe to get to the balconey". The missionaries had already taken the handle off their door and it wouldn't budge. Jeron's apartment manager gave the missionaries the ladder. AHH! Both twins got this reminder letter.) Mom

Back Home, Wait Nevermind, okay that's a yes, no, where, darn ELDER!!!(Lost?good. So am I)

Sup people, hows it going?

So this week going to be completely honest with you I was lost, mentally and physically.  We had transfers so I have a new comp again, his name is elder Ochieng so this makes seven transfers and at the MTC  seven companions, been super fun though! I get to learn a ton of different languages.  My newest one is a Kiluo greeting, if it the morning you say 'Ichieo nade? And for Afternoon or night you say "Irio nade?" the response is "Maber" (sounds like a really drunk dude saying my bear). 

STORY TIME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Number 1: Sooooo, where do I sleep?

    With the elections transfers were delayed, until we got out, which happened on thursday!! Then we found out that Elder Odhiambo would be going to Busia, so we had to race back to Naivasha pack all his stuff in like thirty minutes! Then high tail it back to Nairobi so he can get to the mission home.  Well in all the madness of fast travelling and packing I guess they forgot that Elder Odhiambo had a companion. They didn't know where I was going to stay, so I got to go back to my favorite place that's right folks. Elder Tucker went back to the Upperhill apartment.  Which meant I had stayed in Upperhill last transfer more than in my own houses.  Funny how that works.

Number 2: Toothbrushes, Tracting, and traveling.

   While I waited for my companion to get to Nairobi I got to work with the office elders and we went tracting; which I really never do, it was interesting. I only had one dog try to chase us, but turns out he just wanted someone to pet him, good dog though ( I love dogs).

   As well we were also housing the Elders coming from Tanzania, one of which had an electric toothbrush, which freaked out the Kenyans. So what I did is convinced Elder K. to turn it on and put it on my neck. For me it would vibrate my neck, but he didn't know my part of the plan.  When it touched my neck I proceeded to scream and fall and the ground and start faking a seizure, so when that happened Elder K.( Now booking it for the nearest exit is shouting at the top of his lungs "I AM SORRY TUCKA!!!!" and the other African Elder is cowered behind the couch. I started laughing so hard and another elder is rolling on the floor next to me.  Don't worry after a little while we calmed K. down and told him sorry, what it was and how I am fine.  Good fun though. He wasn't too mad. 

Anyways that is it for me this week, mission is fun as always.

Elder Tucker

Hey Momma,

My new companion is Elder O. he is a cool dude, and was actually in my district in Mombosa, It is cool to be with him again as companions this time. He is close to finishing his mission so it will fun taking him down the homestretch. I feel overwhelmed;I have spent maybe two weeks in each area. It felt amazing to return home to my area-one of them. I have resources so it isn't a complete white wash. 

I got to go tracting with Elder L. who is a silly dude and we had fun. Finally met Elder C. who I brought the package for, he was super fun to talk to. He is actually going to serve in my first area in Langas, with my old comp Mauthiani so I told him he will have a great time.  

To answer your question about teaching. I have taught with a USB that has the Mormon messages. However 90% of the people here don't have a TV let alone one with USB capabilities. I do have a DVD of the Churches Bible videos and I watch them when I am able, I really like them. The New Testament is one of favorite books. I know the Book of Mormon is the keystone of our religion but I love studying the Life of Jesus Christ. 

I have mad respect for Rapunzel!

Due to elections I have been in the flat for now 10 days. The couples were nice enough to let us use their laptops to email today. Because we are still sheltering in place.  I don't have any real stories for you today but I will do my best to make this entertaining. So without further adieu, This is Elder Tuckers List Of 10 Ways To Entertain Yourself.

Start the day with prayer and scripture study.

1.  Sit in the window sill and sing to the other neighbors with a makeshift drum.

2. Make a hacky sack out of random beads and a sock.

3. SOLITAIRE!

4. Announcing the football game of the kids in the compound

5. Run intervals around the compound. ( For you Sam)

6. Laundry 

7. Rummage through the Liahona's and make a collage.

8. Make a pot of kool-aid (Yes I made a pot of kool-aid, and it was hot)

9. Make forts from the couch cushions and then have a war

10. Stare at the ceiling and act like the birds from Jungle book. ( What do you wanna do? I don't know what do you want to do? I don't know, etc.)

These are just a few, feel free to respond with suggestions if you have any, we are very willing to listen.

Have a great week.

Elder Tucker

Hey Mom,

I am alive and doing well. I am in Upperhill with the Pehrsons, Lillywhites, and the upper hill Elders, our area is safe, it is really boring. I bought myself a Book of Mormon coloring book which I am almost done with.  We did get to go to church which is always good.  I am not sure when we will get to go outside again but for now, I only know one thing, I would really hate prison. T

Hey Pops,

In our flat is Elder L.(Yeah his brother plays for the U) Elder K.(Kenyan) and my companion. The couples live above us. They have invited us up for movies. I am going a little nuts. We played Phase 10 four times in one day. Where we are it is safe. the riots are pretty far away. But we will still need to stay inside for the next couple of days. The losing party is taking the winning party to court. We have a rematch soccer game scheduled with the compound kids today. Saturday they creamed us but in our defense they had 12 guys to our 4. Food is basically ugali and rice. Love ya lots Teron

Hey Pops,

My companion and I are in Nairobi till at least Wednesday,we are just chilling here til elections are over, we are stuck in the house so I crazy bored and tired. President Msane calls it "sheltering in place". We bought food storage and are storing water for a few days. We are fine, as fas we know there have been no problems. I am writing to you on the IPad of couples. Just ell everyone I am fine, will write more next week and send pictures. 

Elder T. Tucker

New Sacrament Meeting Record

So usually this is a very good thing to have but sadly, it is opposite of what you think.  This week actually marks the littlest amount of people in sacrament I have ever experienced.  The number was ( drum roll please).... 5.  The group leader, me and my comp, and two investigators.  Still a very spiritual meeting though which taught me a very good lesson.  Now I have done sacrament for people at homes before but it never really hit me till this week how important the sacrament can be.  Even though there were so few people I felt more motivated to make this sacrament special.  I was blessing so I tried my best to put as much spirit in the prayers as I could, and it was awesome! The spirit could be felt and we actually had a very good meeting.  I got the big straw being the only member who didn't have to give a talk.  Message to priests,  always try to make the prayers for sacrament spiritual, no matter if it is a big congregation or you are blessing for an old lady at her home, those are not recitations, they are prayers to god, and it is a privilege to say them for those who want to follow Jesus Christ.

Now for some funny stuff:

Number one: "I am happy to see you... Elder"

So as a mzungu here you get a lot of people trying out their broken english to talk to you.  So while walking into a supermarket, i greet the security guard in Swahili with a "Habari yako" he responds as usual with " Yes, how are you my friend"  I say "fine". (This is where things went a little different) after scanning me, he puts his hand on my shoulder, and says in the most awkward way possible "I am happy to see you ( looks down at my name) Elder." THEN HE WINKED AT ME! A WINK! We were in and out of that supermarket faster than a cat whose tail is on fire.  It was so weird.

Number 2: "Elder, you said you know first aid right?" "Yeah, why?" "Help"

So yesterday while I was starting to soak my clothes so I could wash them the next morning. I hear that question from the kitchen.  Turns out my comp whilst trying to open a can of meatloaf ( don't ask why we had a can of meatloaf, some investigators are strange) my companion had sliced his index finger open, pretty big.  When I walked in the kitchen all I see is him cupping his hand that is full of blood.  I followed protocol, and went to the bedroom, grabbed a whistle and blew it three times, surveyed the scene, tried to glove up, but no gloves, so I wrapped my hands in plastic.  Then found out, we have no first aid kit at Nakuru flat, so I applied pressure with some paper towels, then got masking tape and made some make shift band aids. I used some after shave to sterilize it ( big cut, this phase involved lots of screaming, but it was the only thing we had)  went through SAMPLE and all that fun stuff, It was a nice flash back to my days at SDRC. Also his finger is doing okay now.

Number 3: "Elder What are you doing?"

We were supposed to have a baptism yesterday but we ran into some complications, so they have been postponed.  But in prep for the baptism we had to clean and fill the tank at Nakuru, while doing so we had to keep tipping and flipping the baptismal tank, not light, but had fun. Then I got to spray the tank, which involved much maniacal laughter and a lot of my companion running around the roof of the building we were on screaming "Elder Tucker, what are you doing? Put the hose down, ELDER YOU ARE A MISSIONARY, DON"T SQUIRT ME! STOP THAT!" it was fun, then it started raining so we got more soaked, all in all good day indeed.

That is it for my adventures this week, next week will be Elections here in Kenya, so if you don't hear from me I am probably indoors, should be a fun week with good stories.  Have a good week

Elder Tucker

To Jeron: As a matter of fact I can get bacon it is just very expensive and they won't let me buy a pig and butcher it.