December 26, 2012 - The day after Christmas ;)

Hey Mom it was awesome to see you yesterday and all I wanted to do too was just look at everyone's faces but the picture was blurry so that was a bummer.  It was my best Christmas this year too.  We had a lot of fun all day.  The fun started on Christmas Eve at the Woodward/Ostlund home and it's a big family of step-brothers and step-sisters so in total we had 18 people there I think.  Sister Woodward made poppy seed chicken which was delicious and I'm glad we didn't take any drug test's because we would have failed.  We played a game called Acquire with Bro. Woodward before dinner and played Ninja and foosball after dinner.  Christmas morning we went over to the Summer's home to open gifts and then went to 7-11 for Christmas breakfast haha.  A couple of donuts and hot chocolate is what I got.  The Christmas conference was special as Elder and Sister Olsen, the VC directors are going home soon so they said their goodbyes.  We watched "Elf" and I don't think I've ever laughed at a movie so hard in my whole life!  I got to sing "Santa Claus is Comin to Town", "Joy to the World", and do the haka for the lunch program.  It was good.  Then we went down to the Carter's home and I called you.  After that we had dinner and kinda sat around and played with the kids for a bit.  Bro. Carter and his youngest were sick so they stayed downstairs as us and the other guests were upstairs.  Sis. Carter had quite the time trying to take care of us all so we decided to relieve her of some unnecessary stress and we went back to the Summers.  We had Chinese food and Diet Coke while enjoying our time there.  Brendan and I played "Saratoga"(Stratego) together and I won, twice.  Then I played Isabelle and beat her once.  Yeah I've got a great military mind, I can beat a 13 and a 9 year old in Stratego.  I'm the next Ender Wiggin.  Anyway that put a cap on our night.  Today we woke up to snow!...er slush falling from the sky.  But it was white!  It was my first snowfall in DC and I'm suuuuuuuuuuuper cold because of it.  We visited the National Gallery of Art for a bit and so Michaelangelo's David Apollo that is there.  We also visited the American History Museum and toured pretty much everything in there.  A lot of it is closed for renovation to be opened in October 2015.  But the best exhibit I thought was the "Star-Spangled Banner" with the flag that flew over Fort McHenry that inspired Francis Scott Key to write the song.  It was really cool and stirred lots of patriotic feelings.

Going back to Sunday we had K and S at church along with K's girlfriend N.  They are out of town in Pennsylvania but it was so fantastic to get them at church and even better that night we went to the temple with them!  They marveled at the beautiful Christmas lights surrounding the even more beautiful temple.  It was fantastic and really helped them out.  Can't wait til they get back so we can see them again!

Looks like one really awesome recent convert in this ward, J M, will be moving to Richmond.  He found a better job with better pay there and cheaper cost of living so he's gonna move there.  He is amazing and his testimony is so solid so I know he'll do even better there than he is here.  

As the Christmas season comes to a close I look forward to the new year.  My goal is to have 2013 be the best year in my whole life so far.  Even better than the awesome year of 2012.  I know that the Lord will extend his blessings to me upon my faithfulness and obedience to his words which are written by our beloved prophets and inspired leaders.  I look to make my time here worthwhile not only to myself, but to others, who are the most important benefactor of my service.  

I love you Mom!  To the edge, Elder Schoemig

December 19, 2012 - Christ, faith, hope and gift

Merry Christmas everybody! And to my aunt Jenny, happy birthday! I can't believe in 6 days is....wait for it... CHRISTMAS!!! Today was our transfer temple trip and I had another great spiritual experience, it's one that I want to share because it has to do with Christmas.

At Christmas time we all give each other gifts. At Christmastime we celebrate a gift that was given to us a long time ago. 2012 years ago in fact. In the Celestial Room I read like I typically do my favorite chapter, Ether 12, and was truly searching for the scriptures to touch my heart. This section did and I would like to share it with all of you. "For it was by faith that Christ showed himself unto our fathers, after he had risen from the dead; and he showed not himself unto them until after they had faith in him; wherefore, it must needs be that some had faith in him, for he showed himself not unto the world. But because of the faith of men he has shown himself unto the world, and glorified the name of the Father, and prepared a way that thereby others might be partakers of the heavenly gift, that they might hope for those things which they have not seen. Wherefore, ye may also have hope, and be partakers of the gift, if ye will but have faith. Behold it was by faith that they of old were called after the holy order of God. Wherefore, by faith was the law of Moses given. But in the gift of his Son hath God prepared a more excellent way; and it is by faith that it hath been fulfilled." This scripture did sink into my soul as I was reminded of the greatness of the heavenly gift, the Son of God. He came into the world to show us the path, a more excellent way. It is my deepest and most tender testimony to say that Christ is my Savior, my Redeemer. He is the lover of my soul and I am in His hands, even as my hand is in His. Remember that this Christmas season it is the purpose to be Christlike.

Our two golden investigators didn't make it to church this Sunday but we are still a go, this time for January 6th. Pray for K and S to be ready as ever and to keep it up. We are not discouraged, in fact we are elated, because this means more time to teach them, it was kinda rushed up til now.

 

P.L.A.C.T. and go Irish and Knights. I love you Mom and family and friends! To the edge, Love Elder Schoemig

December 10, 2012 - Few days early weekly report

Hey everyone it feels like not too long ago I was emailing home!  Having this Monday P-day is kinda weird.  Anyway as some of you already know it was my birthday on Friday!  I am now the age of 20 years.  I'm sure you all have experienced the dramatic increase in wisdom and knowledge when you have a birthday, it's like one day you are a little padawan and the next a Jedi Master.  But seriously, I don't feel any different other than the fact of looking back on this past year and seeing how far I've come and how much I've learned on my mission, and the fact that I don't have the word teen on the end of my age.  That'll take some getting used to.  I'm a grown up now hahahahahaha.

Well I want to give everyone the thrilling news!  I've been sick with the cold since last Thursday!  Wooooohoooooooooooooo!  So my birthday was actually kinda miserable however I did enjoy the rest, relaxation, and awesome "Cars"  birthday package I received.  The members here in Calvert ward have been very good to me however.  For my birthday dinner we went to the Summers home and had fajitas and birthday cake and ice cream and they got me a real good lookin purple tie!  I wore it to church on Sunday and got tons of compliments.  Then on Saturday night we went to the S's, our ward mission leader, and they got me a $20 Walmart gift card!  Along with the gifts I've got a lot of birthday wishes and "get well soon's" hahaha.   It's been a good birthday despite the sickness.  

Saturday afternoon we had the pleasure of visiting K B, the son of a member in our ward.  He was living with his dad in Pennsylvania before moving here recently.  He is not baptized so we started off by getting to know him for a couple of weeks by inviting him to the turkey bowl and basketball before our lesson on Saturday.  The Spirit was strong during the lesson.  Elder M and I make a good duo if it's ok to say so.  We know K could feel the Spirit by the way he listened, commented, and asked questions.  We invited him to be baptized on December 23.  He said yes.  Then he asked us a question that I didn't see coming but a question that I could answer honestly without a shadow of a doubt.  He asked us, "Is it worth it?"  and we both responded with a resounding, "Yes."  I promised him that these next two weeks while he prepares himself will be the best two weeks of his life.  We committed him to read and pray about the Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith.  It was wonderful when we asked him if he believed if Joseph Smith did see the Father and the Son and he said in effect, "yes, why would someone make that up?"  We have another lesson with him and his little brother, S, who is 9 and not baptized tonight and we are eagerly awaiting it.  Pray for them, they are wonderful boys.  

Last night we went to the temple for the first time with the lights all up!  Bishop and his family drove us and it seemed like about half the ward was there!  Brother S is a renowned opera singer and he was performing so that's why a lot of people made the trip up.  The lights are beautiful, and what made it even more special was the fog.  The temple was truly a light on the hill, as the fog carried an ethereal glow around the temple and Christmas lights.  I got to see one of my very, very best friends as well there!  Elder J P from the DC South mission was there and we shared a long embrace and lots of smiles.  He looks so good!  We took pictures that I'll have to send off to him.  

This week will have some excitement to it as we have our mission conference with Elder Packer of the Seventy coming to inspect us or whatever he's gonna do.  I'll get my Christmas packages at that meeting :)

Love you as big as the universe!  To the edge, Elder Schoemig

December 5, 2012 - Birthday

Hey Mom I'm doing great here in Calvert ward! It's been fun and we just picked up 2 new investigators from a part member family. It is an 18 year old boy and his 9 year old brother. They had us over for dinner last night, which was super delicious, steak and shrimp. Yes I'm getting spoiled haha. Their names are K and S. Keep them in your prayers. We are trying to focus a lot on part member families and less actives. Tracting here doesn't work out so well. We'd have to walk forever to get from one house to the next. It's very nice and roomy in Calvert, complete opposite of what I'm used to in DC. Hopefully we're going to the beach today to try and find some cool shells or sharks teeth.

 

The B's confirmation on Sunday was fantastic! All four of them were so happy and it has been such a blessing to be able to be a part of this family's transformation. Me and the mom, N, really get along because we're both Baltimore Ravens fans :) I love them, the B, the family not the football team.

 

This Friday is my birthday. The S's family are having us over for dinner and so I'm really looking forward to it. They are super cool. I got the package from you and one from Grandma. I must be honest and tell you that I couldn't wait to open at least one so I opened the one from Grandma. It made me smile so much and put those warm fuzzies into my heart. Thank you family and especially Tracy for all the health and hygiene facts hahahaha.

 

I'll be writing the letter to Bishop Badger today :)

I'll have to look into the new curriculum. I know that our ward had a youth meeting for the new YM and YW programs but I don't really know what it is yet.

I'm so grateful for all the blessings we have received as a family. More and more miracles are poured upon our heads with each passing day. I think that's the way God intends it to be done. We are humble and do His will so he blesses us. We give our thanks and continue in righteousness and He blesses us even more abundantly. I'd like to call that the "Humility Cycle". Too bad the Nephites never could figure that one out.

I'm praying for my best friend Elder Lewis. I love him so much and have had him in my thoughts and prayers. Elder Lewis is a warrior unlike any other.

Love you family! As big as the universe! To the edge! Elder Schoemig

p.s. the new Visitor Center is SOOOOOOOO cool

 

(Mom's note:  Elder Lewis/Taylor had surgery today and there was complications but other than that, he came out of it.  So we are grateful for it.)

November 28, 2012 - Huntingtown

Hey!  Elder Schoemig's world, Elder Schoemig's world, party on, excellent!!!!  Welcome to another edition of Elder Schoemig's World!  Or is it the first edition?  I can't keep track of these things with so much missionary work on my mind!  Anyway my new area, Calvert, is legit...wait for it...imate.  Yes that's right I'm taking a cue from my good friend Elder Kale Wright (Shout-out!) and quoting B S.  I have one thing to say about my new area.  Chesapeake Bay.  It's beautiful to be going to an appointment and you turn around and BAM there's the bay.  The roads here are really curvy both horizontally and vertically.  It makes me feel like I'm in a car commercial especially with the dillions of trees and leaves on the ground.  By the way now I drive a 2011 Chevy Malibu.  Horrible turning radius but the get-up-and-go is nice. 

 

You know what's funny about Bishop Badger requesting me write a letter?  I was thinkin that exact thing yesterday!  The Holy Spirit must've guided me to think that.  I guess Bishop and I are on the same brainwave. 

 

So I'm still not super familiar with the area quite yet but I'll tell you everything I do know.  I know we had a baptism!  Actually four, quatro, 4, IIII, any way you wanna count it 4 baptisms!  They are the B family and they are so cool.  I feel like Ammon-level happiness when I think of them.  They have 4 more kids under age 8 too so that is amazing.  What a miracle family.  They were originally living in Annapolis and were getting taught there but moved down to our area so what a blessing the Lord has given!  The Lord is my light, I cannot go astray with the Master at the helm. 

 

Thanksgiving was great!  We played in a ward Turkey Bowl and I played d-line and o-line for obvious reasons and got 2 interceptions on the d-line and for some reason o-linemen were eligible to go out for passes so I got a touchdown as well.  We had dinner with the Ward Mission Leader, Brother S and his wife and kids.  They are awesome and the turkey was great (deep fried yum). 

 

My Bishop has to be one of the most fun Bishop's ever.  His name is  T I, no relation to B I.  I already asked :(  But he loves the missionarys and we love him.  He plays basketball with us and really tries to help us out so we gotta pay him back by being the best missionarys in the world.  He served in St. Louis on his mission and I immediately thought of Dad.  Bishop served from 87-89 so I think it was after Dad's time but I'm not sure.  Let me know. 

 

Well here goes my most important thing I have to say this week. Happy birthday Dad!  I love you so much and you are my inspiration for so many things.  I hope to grow up and be like you.  I love you truly and deeply from the bottom of my heart. 

 

Well love you so much and thanks for tuning in to this edition whether it be the first or last of Elder Schoemig's world!  Party on, to the edge, excellent!

   

(Mom's note:  We just received words that Kenny's best friend and brother Taylor is having his surgery next week Wednesday.  This will be a very delicate surgery and of course there is a lot of concerns and worries with Taylor.  We are asking for prayers for him and of course his parents as he get through the surgery and recovery.  Thank you.)

November 21, 2012 - Gratitude

Thanksgiving. A time for thanks and a time for giving. I bet that's real original huh? Anyway before I go off on my Thanksgiving spiel (is that how you spell spiel?) I need to announce the big news! I got transferred again! What? Huh? Really? No? You're kidding? Are you serious? YES I'm serious! I enjoyed my week and a half stay in the Bowie area and ward but I am onward and southward in Calvert area! I cover the whole of Calvert County on the eastern edge of my mission next to Chesapeake Bay. My new companions are Elders N from St. George and M from Sugar City, Idaho. Another threesome?! Yep you betcha my third one so far this mission haha. But Elder N  is actually going home next week (something to do with the departure rules of missionaries) so it'll be Elder M and me for most of the time. This area is gonna be siiiiick I can't wait to get working. On Saturday there's a wedding and on Sunday we're supposed to have 4 baptisms! So pray for the B family to make it all the way! I know they can do it!

Anyway in response to your question Mom about Carson I feel that school was easy in elementary so I understand what Carson feels like. I think that if given the option to move up a grade earlier in elementary (like in first, second, or third) I would've done it. So proud to hear about Dakota! And sounds like the whole family is doing well. I'm so thankful for the awesomest possumest family that I have.

 

In the Bowie area they were very nice to me and hopefully I get a chance to go back there. It was a very nice area and the members are super cool. My companion there Elder Meserole was from Washington, Iowa.

Well Mom I'm glad to have joined the family too! I didn't know that about myself. I guess the blessing did prove to be prophecy about a strong boy who would become a missionary.

 

Here's my thoughts on Thanksgiving. Well more on an attitude of gratefulness that should be prevalent the rest of the year but seems to come out more strongly amongst people in general during the holiday season. It all started when I realized that I will never be good enough. I do not qualify for anything that the Lord gives me. I can never come close enough to the Lord to be worthy of blessings. Everything that He gives me is because His grace is sufficient for all men, His mercy and love and tenderness are the only qualifications there are. It doesn't matter how hard I work in an area or how many doors and hours I tract the Lord can still choose to withhold blessings as a test. But I will still do it. I will still tract doors on end and hours on hours because that is what He wants. He has given me the gift of life, the gift of family, the gift of a mission, the gift of everything I've ever had and there is no way that I can repay Him. I can only be grateful and continue on in that which He has gifted me to do. It's not about you, and it's not about me, it's about Him. This is real life, to know God, the very Eternal Father, through the mercy and merits of the Redeemer and Savior of the World, Jesus Christ. This is real life, and it is the only life. There is no life without the Christ. He is the Life. And for that I am thankful.

LOVE you all my family and friends, to the edge Elder Schoemig

November 14, 2012 - He got transfered!

Hello Mom and family! Well the biggest and most surprising news first. I got midnighted. Now for those who don't know what that means it means that I got emergency transferred into the English program. One Elder was sick and had to go home to recover and since I was in a threesome and have been in ASL for the past 8 months (HOLY COW! can you believe it?) that they transferred me to the Bowie area! I am now serving with Elder M in this area for the next week and a half until I get transferred to another area next week. The Assistants called me last Saturday morning and told me I would be going on Sunday night. It was tough for me to leave the apartment. So much of my blood, sweat, and tears has gone into that area and branch. It was emotional for me but I know this is gonna make me a better man. I am excited to have different opportunities in a different area. My biggest fear is that I am going to lose all the ASL skill I have worked for. The Lord has called and I have answered however, my faith is sure and my hope is bright. 

I have been getting to know my new area. They just had a few baptisms so some recent converts we are working with. One is D and the other is E. Both are super cool and so full of the Gospel right now. We get fed every night in this area it is super intense. I'm gonna have to watch my figure ;)

 

Glad to hear about all the people going on missions! I wanna know basically everyone who has gotten a call, sorry if that puts more work on you mom.

I don't know my plans for Thanksgiving or anything because I'll be in a totally new area! However the holidays will be a great time to work with whatever ward I'm in. The Christmas Spirit always makes people friendlier.

Well I love you family and am praying for you day and night! Oh yeah and I must shout-out to my Grandma Schoemig who's birthday was last week and to my cuz Garett who's birthday is this week! Happy Birthdays! To the edge with love, Elder Schoemig :)

November 7, 2012

Goooood morning Schoemig family! Well it's actually afternoon but I wanted to feel like Ty Pennington for a second. Anyway last week we survived the naturaly hurricane and this week we're workin on survivin the political one hahaha. All the bike Elders in the city were ordered yesterday not to go out today just in case of anything happening. We got the call this morning that President Obama got reelected. We as representitives of the church are neutral politically but I know that a lot of the members in this area are gonna be sad. Hopefully we are not the target of any anti-Romney stuff but we've been ordered to keep a keen eye. The Lord will protect us.

Haven't got anything in the mail yet about the Knights, I am lookin forward to it and rootin them on to another title. Glad to hear my goodest buddy Elder Wright is in NC now. He's not far. Maybe I'll go visit him jk ;)

Just got done playin dodgeball as a zone activity. Needless to say when I get the ball, it strikes fear into the hearts of my opponents mwhahaha

Love my little sister's singing voice :)

This week we got another baptismal date! This time on Dec 16, Jenny's birthday! Her name is M K from Liberia, Africa and she's super cool. The work is picking up. Only a few more weeks in this transfer. I predict a move to the English program for me. It's crazy. Comin up on a year, who'da thunk?

Love you to the edge, and beyond!- Elder Schoemig

Fun pictures from Elder Schoemig

Elder Schoemig with the Halloween decorations we send him.

Elder Schoemig sent this picture for Mama Lewis.  :)

Elder Schoemig with the Arthur family.

This is for Taylor Lewis, Sydney H. Kelsey B. and Mickey L.

October 31, 2012

Hey Mom! Happy Halloween everyone! FRANKENSTORM did not live up to it's name. The damage here is minimal, a little flooding, a little power outages. We had power all the way through the storm and had enough food and water to last us if anything did happen. What Hurricane Sandy did bring however was the wet penetrating cold. The weather was supposed to get better next week from what I've heard but nothing yet. Our landlord came over last night since none of our radiators are working. He's gonna get a professional guy to come over and take a look at all of them. He's super chill.

Glad to hear that Elder Lewis is home safely. He'll get through whatever happens. I know that to be true. It comes from a very special experience I had with an Apostle of the Lord. Elder Cook came this past weekend for a multitude of things including our stake conference. One other thing was a mission conference. At the end of the conference he conferred upon us a blessing that is sacred to me. He blessed us that we are doing what we are supposed to be doing and the Lord has us here for a reason. He blessed us that whoever is at home, our family and friends, no matter what the circumstance is, will be protected and taken care of. He blessed us that it will all work out in the end. There were more teary eyes than just mine in that room. I needed that desperately. I was thinking about everyone at home and all the struggles that have been confronted and overcome. Satan tries to take us down with every type of trial and tribulation in this world but the in the Savior there is safety and security, there is love and learning, there is power and peace. I feel that is the truth and the truth will set us free.

We had a miracle yesterday when we put D, the girlfriend of one of our less-active members, J, on date for baptism. We are excited to really start working with them and see all these great blessings come upon them as they progress toward the Savior.

I love you and wish happiness and safety on you and the kids and everyone as they trick or treat tonight. To the edge, Elder Schoemig

ps attached are some pictures. one is of the A family and me. I love that family so much they mean a lot to me and they moved so I'm gonna miss em. another goes to Mama Lewis, that one is the finger puppet one. i tried to put some zombies in the background to make it more ghoulish hahaha. another is a rainbow and that one goes out to Kelsey, Sydney, Mickey and Elder Lewis. They know what it means ;) the temple is the morning of the mission conference with Elder Cook. the one with me looking like i do is the decorations you sent and i put up. thanks for those it's been really fun to have them :) that is all. to the edge!

Hurricane Sandy aka "Frankenstorm"

Dear Families,

There is good news from the Washington DC North Mission.  All missionaries have reported in.  They are safe, warm and accounted for.  None lost electrical power or experienced difficulties of any kind.   No mission cars were damaged, no missionary was in harm’s way, nor have there been problems of any kind reported.  We are happy to say that the mission will continue onwards, “with business back to normal”.   Your prayers and ours have been answered. We thank you for those in our behalf. 

Some libraries and facilities that missionaries use for their Wednesday computer time may have closures.  Just know that if you fail to receive an email this week it is most likely due to other factors and not the missionaries well being.  Again we assure you they are all save and taken care of. 

Warmest regards,

President James R. Matsumori

(Mom's note:  Thank you for all your prayers for our son and missionaries.)

 

October 24, 2012

Hey Mom :)  Sad news about Elder Lewis.  He was and still is a great missionary and I'll be praying for whatever needs to be fixed to be fixed.  He is a tough guy and will come out on top of whatever is ailing him. 

This past Sunday we were supposed to have the confirmation for K but K her mom was sick so couldn't make it so they didn't want to do it without her.  We'll have to wait a few weeks since this weekend is Stake Conference.  I'm so excited to have Elder Cook here!  He's sure gonna pack the house as we have been preparing for him to come for a long time.  I'm looking forward to this experience.

Yesterday I had a pretty awesome day on exchange in the French program.  We taught 4 lessons to investigators which is way sweet.  We put two of them on date for baptism too.  I actually got to say stuff on three of the lessons cuz the investigators new some English as well. 

This weekend B A and his family are moving to Atlanta Georgia.  I'm gonna miss him a lot.  He was like my mentor.  Someone who really could help me with signing and being a good missionary and person.  I wish him the best of luck in Atlanta and someday we will meet again. 

I love you Mom, I want to say that every week and let you know it's from the bottom of my heart.  Many times I think what amazing selfless service you provide for us kids.  Thank you. 

To the edge and LOVE YOU AS BIG AS THE UNIVERSE!!! XoOxX (Big hug, little kiss, big kiss, little hug, big hug.  Thank you Nacho Libre.)  Elder Schoemig

(Mom's note:  It was a very short time for "four for four" on their mission since Elder Kale Wright went into the MTC last week.  One of his best friend and "brother" Elder Taylor Lewis had to come home on medical leave yesterday.  He had been sick for a while and please pray for him so that he can get better and for the doctor to find what's wrong with him.  Like Elder Schoemig said, he is a still a great missionary.  We love him a bunch!)  

October 17, 2012

Hey Mom, family and friends! Thanks for the email it sounds like this weekend is gonna be a blast for you mom! I'll be prayin for you to get a buck bigger than dads :) Oils workin well for me. I'm actually really improved with my sickness. I don't drink milk and only buy low-fat for cereal or cooking or whatever. Can't believe that right this very second Kale is in the MTC starting his journey of a lifetime. What a wonderful feeling to have the whole squad on a mission :) Lookin forward to whatever packages come my way! The Halloween one was AMAZING you know how much I love this holiday. I think I get it from Jenny ;) This week was an awesome week! We had K's baptism go down! And her mom and older sister made it to the temple last Thursday for baptisms for the dead! Wow what progress has been made, it really makes all the struggles and trials worth it. This family is comin along, we just gotta keep on coaxing them :) Today was a blast! We went to the zoo! I saw all manners of animals! Lions and tigers and bears and ELEPHANTS! and snakes and pandas and sea lions and monkeys and zebras oh my! the sea lions were really cute when they were swimming side by side and then they kissed! the elephants were playin in the water and eating some branches and were so fun! it really broke my heart when I went through the Panda exhibit and saw that just recently a baby panda had died. made me wanna break down cryin right there. we're gonna go back soon cuz we didn't even see everything. Well I love you! To the edge, Elder Schoemig

October 9, 2012

Hey Mom and Dad and everyone! Gotta be a short one this week, we gotta lotta stuffs to do. I got my son today! I am training Elder S from Yucaipa, California. He is an ASL missionary and we are in a trio with Elder W. This transfer is gonna be the bomb! Elder S says he loves to cook so that's a testament that the Lord really does answer prayers! This Sunday we have K I's baptism! After many months and long hard labor it's finally here! I know that the family will benefit from this spiritual experience and K herself will benefit the most. We had a kinda slow week last week but this week we have lots of good stuff happening! How was General Conference everyone? Wow to me there was tons of revelation that was received and recorded. How about that announcement to lower the minimum missionary age for Elders and Sisters? Whooooo-eeeeeee I felt an overwhelmingly powerful testament from the Holy Ghost that that was supposed to happen and that President Monson is the prophet of God. Wow it literally brought tears to my eyes. These past couple weeks I have had more of those tearful, happy experiences than ever before. The Standard of Truth has been erected, no unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing. I love you! To the edge :) -Elder Schoemig

(Mom's note:  We got this a day early because tomorrow is transfer day in D.C.) 

October 4, 2012

Hi Mom! We've had a pretty good past week! Thanks for you email lettin me know everything that's goin on! I always love these little moments. I had some really good little moments yesterday in the temple, but before I tell you about that I'll say some other things first.

Last week was a killer week for us! We have four people on date for baptism, we had 2 new investigators, 4 lessons with members present, 4 other lessons, and 3 investigators at sacrament meeting! It was really nice to see those numbers jump up like that, as they have been building all transfer. The Lord gets all the credit, we put ourselves in His hands and he did the work.

I'm glad Carson's baptism went  went great! I had a long day of work that day and was thinkin about him.

I'm super excited about General Conference this weekend! I can't wait to listen to the Prophet's voice and receive inspiration and revelation for all the people I'm working with. On October 28th we are having an Apostle come to give us a mission conference and come to our stake conference! I can't remember if I told you this before or not, but Elder Cook is coming! We are way excited for this opportunity. This will be the 3rd Apostle I've seen on my mission.

Yesterday we went to the temple and Elder W and I did sealing session. Wow what a joy and a thrill that was. They were doing a daughter sealing and I was a witness and I saw that it took seven years from her baptism to the sealing to her parents and I was so touched with the Spirit. I was crying with happiness for every name that was read from then on. After the session was over I went into the Celestial Room and felt an overpowering closeness to my Heavenly Father as I was brought to tears once more. It was Elder W and I in the room alone with the sister and it was a very sacred experience to be in there. I was truly overcome with the Spirit as I reflected on my first experience in the Celestial Room and thought of the joy and everylasting happiness that comes from being with my Father. On the way to the temple we sang, "I love to see the temple, I'm going there today. To feel His Holy Spirit, to listen and to pray." I do love to see the temple, and I love even more to be in it.

Last night I got a call from the Assistants asking me to be at a meeting on Friday morning at 10 a.m. That meeting is for people who are gonna be training next transfer. Looks like I'm gonna be a daddy :)

I love you all! To the edge and beyond! -Elder Schoemig

ps can't wait for Halloween! It's the best time of the year! (tied with Christmas of course) a special treat? hmmm maybe some of the candies that dad loves so much, the peanut butter and coconut sticks that you buy at gas stations. and some ties and some shirts. that'll be all. thanks so much :) LOVE YOU!

September 26, 2012

Hello Mom! And other people! I'm so relieved to hear about Dad's job! The Lord sends us blessings, it's our job to use them! I'm very thankful that everything went well. Sounds like everything is goin on like usual at home. This Saturday is gonna be a great day! Can't wait to hear how it goes :)

 The work is going great! We have 4 baptisms set for in October: A, K, B, and B! The work has really picked up this fall, especially with Elder W's and my different experiences and sharing our knowledge to build it up. We keep fighting for the right. I'm just loving the work right now, I gotta keep my eye on the prize! Sometimes it's easy to let things slip and get lazy, but you gotta ignore everything and work! "There is no satisfactory substitute, especially in missionary work!"

 I love you as big as the universe! -Elder Schoemig

 

Mom's note:  Many of you are probably wonder what's going on with his dad's job.  Well, his dad got a better job offer at a great company that we had been hoping and praying for and he had decided to take this job.  He startes on Oct. 8th at the new company.  We are blessed and thank you all for your prayers for our family.  It has helped tremendously.  As for this Saturday, Elder Schoemig's littliest brother Carson is being baptize by his father on his 8th birthday.  :)

September 19, 2012

Well I am happy that you love me!  Thanks for stayin up to email me :)  I'm really excited for Carson's baptism!  I know that is going to be a great day.  Hopefully out here we'll have some baptisms to follow in October with K and A set for Oct 13 and we just set another, B, for Oct 28.  The senior missionaries are way cool and I'm so glad they're here.  Sister J is so sweet and Elder J if very funny.  I'm glad for the opportunity to have them here with me. 

What song did Autumn do for her music video?  And yes the deaf joke that Chandler told is a classic one :)  I've "heard" a few and hopefully will "hear" a lot more haha ;) 

Will you get Kale to send me his email?  I haven't gotten a letter from him and feel like it would just be easier to email.  After all he's my brother :)  And Garett too, my brotha.  I want to communicate with them both more!

We play Munchkin on P-Day sometimes and it really reminds me of Jenny and Grandma Jarvis and how we got that game like ten years ago and it's super big with all the missionaries.  It's funny :)

We went to the VC this past Sunday with the J's, K R, and J M for the "Why I Believe" fireside.  It was the Baltimore Mission President, President Richards and he told a story of how his mom and dad got in a car wreck and he saw the whole thing and his dad died but his older brother gave him a priesthood blessing and he came back to life.  It really reminded me about our experience last year with dad and I'm really grateful to all the priesthood holders who gave dad those blessings that night. 

I LOVE YOU!  to the edge Elder Schoemig

September 12, 2012

Wow sounds like everybody is busy out there in good ole Utah! I always love to hear how everybodys doin and I can imagine how much fun everyone is having. Almost as much fun as me! I'mma start with today and tell you about the epic morning we had.

5:30 AM Eastern Time: Wake up, groggily rise from my bed. My knees hit the floor as I give a quick prayer of thanks to the Lord for wakin me up and ask for the Spirit to be with me. Saunter down the stairs and hop in the shower. Put my clothes on, brush my teeth and I'm ready to go.

6:08 AM Eastern Time: Push down on the bike pedal as we set out on our quest. The rythym of pedaling and my breathing go hand in hand, a soft sound amongst many in early morning DC. A right on K Street, a left on Second, down Constitution and onto the Mall. The early flow of pre-dawn light gives a soft touch to the stone behemoths that align the National Mall.

6:30 AM Eastern Time: This is it, a moment I've been waiting for my whole mission. We lock up the bikes and take off at a slight jog, up the white stone staircase, my back to the reflecting pool decorated with ducks, until I lay my eyes upon a man quite literally larger than life. I felt the chills go up and down me as I lay eyes upon Abraham Lincoln. I turned around and sat down and prepared my self for the glorious display that was to come.

6:47 AM Eastern Time: The glorious disply begins. The sun decides it's time to peek his sleepy up over the horizon and give the city his light. I sat there beholding the grandeur of the scene, the Lincoln Memorial to my back and the rest of the Mall before my eyes. It felt peaceful, it felt holy. I am a missionary of Jesus Christ, and I am in Washington DC.

Cool right?! It could be a book, haha no just kidding. But seriously, this morning was amazing. We also visited the Vietnam War Memorial and the WWII Memorial, and my buddy Elder Bates described it best, "I feel a lot of the same feelings here as I do in the temple." God has dedicated those memorials because of the holiness of the cause those men and women fought and died for. A cause of freedom that inspired Captain Moroni to write the Title of Liberty, and the Founding Fathers to write the Declaration and Constitution. It was an unbelievable experience.

The work is going great; got A on date for October 13th! He's a stud and we're lookin forward to workin more with him. K is going well, we had to push the baptism back again but we are optimistic still. Our senior missionarys are now here and it turns out Elder W grew up with them in Riverside! Super cool and I'm pumped to have them around.

Love you all, and take care of each other! To the Edge, Elder Schoemig

September 5, 2012

Hey Mom and other select group of people who may read this, another week in the hood, another person on date for baptism! This guy's name is A and he's from Ethiopia and roommates with J and the other Ethiopians. He's sooooooo cool! He reads the Book of Mormon in Amharic, which is the Ethiopian language, and then signs it in ASL, which he has only had about a month's training in! Wow right?! He says he believes the Book of Mormon and says it is simpler than the Bible and easier to understand. I guess in Ethiopia he graduated from a Bible school and is really good at reading scriptures and telling what it means and stuff. His scheduled date is October 14.

The work with the I family becomes frustrating and sad. They were so happy and loving last Thursday when we visited them but they didn't show up to church on Sunday because K got mad at B. We had scheduled a Visitor Center trip with them that day too but off course that fell through. I can't wait to have the senior missionary's here to help this family out. I love them so much and want to see them succeed individually and as a whole. This family needs a miracle and I'm certainly prayin for one.

And to my brother Kale, I'll be thinkin of you tonight bro! Send me a letter and tell me how it goes!

I hope Dakota's trip to Shriner goes well! I'm always prayin for you little brother!

That's super funny about the water in Grandma's and Grandpa's bathroom! I can just imagine it right now everyone running around trying to fix it with the water goin everywhere. Ha classic.

Today was Fall Sports Day! That's where all the missionaries in our mission go up to the Gaithersburg's bishops ranch and play sports and eat. We played a game called Hero Ball. It's a mix between soccer, capture the flag, and Quidditch. One direction there are soccer players, the other is Quidditch where you play like Ultimate Frisbee with a ball and there's 3 rings you must throw the Quaffle through and the Chaser's do that while the Bludger's are bludgeoning everybody that's playing, except for the goalies and Seeker, with dodgeballs and if you get hit you're out and you go off to the side until someone comes and takes your spot then you must recite 2 recitations and go back in and play. And capture the flag from one corner to another. It's super fun and there's tons going on at the same time and people are running around everywhere trying to score and whatnot. I played goalie in Quidditch and made some pretty dece saves.

Anyway now I gotta go! I love you all as big as the universe! To the edge, Elder Schoemig

August 29, 2012

Hello mom! Happy happy birthday from all of me to you! I wish you happy birthday, so I can party too! Hahaha I hope it was very fun for you this past few days celebrating. I announced in my district meeting that it was your birthday and everyone here says happy birthday :)

So I have some pretty big news. My companion for the last 5 months, the man who I have gone through thick and thin, up and down, happy and sad, rain and shine with has gone the way of the transfer. Yes my good friend Elder L is now in the English program. I learned so much from him. He pushed me when I needed to be pushed, and I pushed him when he needed to be pushed. We were like Stockton and Malone, Laurel and Hardy, Bert and Ernie. It was challenging for me to hear that call where we found out he was leaving. I cried. But I know that I will apply the principles he taught me and I will grow and develop so much as a missionary. My new companion, however, is pretty awesome, and you've heard his name before. Elder W and I are back together! I know this transfer is going to be hard at times, but I know so many blessings are waiting for the people we work with and us, cuz we are gonna explode this program.

Last night in our last lesson together, Elder L and I went to a LA members house who was having some trouble paying tithing. Thanks to the Spirit of the Lord who has so many times given movement to our hands we got him to recognize the importance of paying tithing before anything else because of the marvelous blessings that will be poured out on him from the Lord.

This past Sunday we were in the Belford towers trying to check on a potential investigator and he wasn't home so we did some tracting. The Belford towers are full of African immigrants and we tracted into a whole family. This guy named Peter is who we did most of the talking to, though everyone else was listening. He was really cool and taught me an important lesson. We introduced our message as being about the Book of Mormon, biggest mistake of my life (not really) but anyway he said something I really took to heart. He said we could talk about the Book of Mormon and the Bible and scriptures all day but what really would excite him would be one thing: what has Jesus done for me. I realized right then that our message was not about the Book of Mormon, Joseph Smith, or where is Kolob and how to get there. The message is Jesus Christ. The message is Jesus Christ. Who he is and what he has done. Later that night I came to the conclusion that Jesus Christ has done two things for me that I can relate every gospel principle to. He has done these two things: 1) He has given me a family and 2) He has given me an identity. Without Jesus Christ I would not have anything because I would not have those two things. If you think about it it's quite simple. Jesus Christ died to save his heavenly family so we can be together forever as earthly families and it comes through having a knowledge of our identity; who we are and why we're here. That moment was a game-changer for my whole mission. Since then when introducing myself I always say that we have a very special message about Jesus Christ. He is everything to me.

Anyway I love you all and I'm so happy to hear how everybody is doing! I'm lookin forward to this transfer and the new adventures it will bring! To the edge, Elder Schoemig

 

(Mom's note:  Elder Winkler was Elder Schoemig's companion in the Missionary Training Center (MTC) and now they are back together again.  :)  )

August 22, 2012

Hello mom and the rest of the world! It's great to hear about all the excitement for the new school year! Just think of it this way, in the middle of next school year, I'll be back! I did get your package with the update on my Lone Peak boys. My heart and prayers are with them this season as they seek to defend the title. That's a bummer about George not being back for Kale's farewell but I know George's thoughts will be with him for that day. Excited for Autumn to take ASL 2! Only problem is if this year she takes that, and next year ASL 3, then her senior year there won't be anything! And what if she turns out to be better than me when I get back? Nope she needs to transfer to French or something
Today we had... DEATH TEMPLE! But before that a little testimony. These past two transfers we have been reading the BoM as a mission, because of the apostolic blessing that Elder Bednar pronounced upon us that the gospel of Christ would be open to our understanding. Well I fell behind. Way behind. So behind that on Thursday Aug 9 I was only in Mosiah 6. But then the Spirit of the Lord was wrought upon my soul and a desire to finish the Book was engraved upon my heart. I read like crazy, my soul focus has been reading that Book. As of this morning, 13 days after I started it, I am finished with it. I bear sincere and solemn witness that this Book is of God. As I have become dedicated to reading the Book of Mormon, my spirit has changed. I know for a fact that every time you read the BoM cover to cover, you become a better person. Problems become less of a problem, blessings become more of a blessing. Weaknesses turn to strengths and strengths turn to strengthier things (anybody know what that would be called?) How great is God for giving us this witness of His divine Son?! Who can say enough of our great and marvelous Father?! The plan of happiness is real eveyone! Jesus Christ is real! And there was no better than to rejoice in my testimony than in His house this morning. True happiness only comes from walking the path. I wish my investigators could see that. I especially wish the Izaguirre family could see that. They have so much potential as individuals and as a family. I will stay with them until the end, my hope in them, in all my investigators, is eternal.

To the edge my family, whom you are if you are reading this, LVE Elder Schoemig ,\,,/

August 15, 2012

Hello world!  Mom, I did receive the packages, and I love the cookies and haven't tried the bread yet, I am saving it for a special occasion :)  Chandler you rock!  I'm sorry everyone is sick!  I was feeling a little under the weather too but got over it quickly.  The Spirit quickeneth all things, even the overcoming of sickness.  I'm totes gonna try that pizza recipe.  Carson you are a silly kid!  And hang in there Dakota, since your collarbone is broken you can practice drawing or something!  

 

I loved what you commented on about Kale.  I also add this:  Kale has been one of the greatest forces for good in my life.  Without his undying loyalty and amazing spirit, I would never have come as far as I have.  I would be lost without him.  The same goes for Jackson and Taylor as well, we all are the same enough to love each other profoundly and different enough to keep it interesting hahahahahaha.  

 

Well today for Pday we visited the National Postal Museum (who knew that the mail could be so EPIC?)  and a sliver of the National American History Museum.  I think you can guess what we went right for:  the sunstone from the original Nauvoo temple.  I love that museum even though I've only been to a bit of it so far.  I love history.  I love America. 

 

Anyway for my spiritual thought I thought I'd tell everyone that I finished reading "Jesus the Christ" last night and am two weeks away from finishing the Book of Mormon a second time.  I fell a little behind on my scheduled reading and now must read 20ish pages a day to catch up and finish by the end of the transfer.  I must testify that the Book of Mormon was written under the divine guidance of the Holy Spirit, and as good as "Jesus the Christ" is, it can in no way match the Book of Mormon in terms of raw spiritual power and testifying witness that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God.  By Him, of Him, and through Him we are redeemed from the chains of hell and the bands of death, if we will but have faith on His name and repent of our sins. 

 

Also wanted to share an excerpt from my email to Elder Grandpa Jarvis.  Enjoy!

 

just a quick story to tell you about the mission.  way back in my first transfer we were on exchange with our zone leaders and it was me, elder c (zl), and elder k (trainer, elder l was with elder l) anyway we visited a less actives home, in fact the less active who's daughter we are now teaching and are helping the whole family reactivate.  they weren't there that time around but elder c suggested and i agreed that we knock on one door.  i chose the door right next to our less actives.  a boy answered and his dad was in the kitchen.  elder c spoke spanish to them and set up an appt for the next day.  well that was the last i heard about that family until last week, when i found out they all were baptized!  a family of four that we ran into was led to Christ, and it made me so happy.  1 nephi 4:6 for sure!  turns out that elder l and elder l also ran into somebody who later got baptized!  wow the Lord works in mysterious ways, it is a testament to me that the Lord calls who he calls for a reason, and sometimes just a five minute interaction with somebody can change their life forever.

 

I love you Mom, Dad, Amanda, Codie, Autumn, Chandler, Dakota, Carson, and anybody and everybody else who will read this!  To the edge, to the edge, to the edge, to the edge,   (did you like that echo effect?  yeah I did too \,,/('_')\,,/)

Kale, soon to be Elder Wright

Mom's message:  Its here.  He's happy to announced that he has accepted his call to the North Carolina, Charlotte mission.  He will enter the Missionary Training Center Oct. 17th.  So he got two months to get ready.  He is excited about it. 

I know few of you have wonder why do I even care about this kid.  I do love him.  At first I didn't.  Lets just say that he got into trouble and I went to talk to his parents about it and from there, I met his dad.  Whoa, if any of you know him, I was stunned when he came out.  So I talked to him about what Kale did and he was pretty nice.  It took me a while to fully accept Kale.  When we first started going to the hearing ward here in our home.  I was called to be the gospel doctrine teacher, there has been few times that his dad helped made comments here and there, I do appreciate that.  So in all Kenny and Kale became good friends with the help of several youth leaders including their scoutmaster. 

In May 2008 on Mother's day.  Kenny went out to do something with one of the youth leader, I can't exactly remember what it was for but he came home and said some things about George (Kale's dad) and that he think he heard them saying he had passed away and of course it got Kenny pretty upset and we soon found out that George did passed away during the night. 

About 4 months before he passed away.  I had  a lesson and I don't remember the lesson that it was on but I do remember having the impression while I was researching and preparing the lesson to talk about this part.  I still recall teaching it and after that several members coming up to me and said that is exactly what we needed.  I was like umm, really, not understanding why I was impressed to talk about it.  We now know why.  What I was impressed upon was to tell them that it is the responsibility of the home teachers, priesthood leader/youth leaders, neighbors and friends to take upon the role model to help and teach the youth when they don't have the father in their home that I have found from one of the book I was researching.  I hadn't plan on it but my mind kept going back to that part.

It took a village to help raise this boy, quoted Melinda, Kale's mom when we went over for his Elder ordaination back in Oct. or Nov.  It was awesome to see Kenny, Jackson and Taylor (they have already been ordained to Elder about 4 or 5 months prior) to be in that circle along with Bill and about 5 or 6 of the youth leaders and former bishop from our ward to be in it.  Kale watched as 3 of his best friends got their mission call last fall and winter and supported them.  The three boys' birthdays are all in Dec. so I am sure it was hard for Kale having to wait for another 7 months before he gets his mission call.  Kale's birthday is in July and the youngest of the group.  He received his mission call yesterday. 

I have wanted my kids' friends to feel at home or feel welcome when they come over to our home.  Kenny and his friends sure did.  They took turn at each and every one of the homes, they go in the basement to watch movie, play video game or whatever they did and of course eat foods.  :)  I don't know how these four boys found each other and how they became the best of friends.  We have grown to love each one of them as our boys and I know the other parents have felt the same.  If you know what I mean by looking at them, you'll understand.  Each and every one of them has different personality, likes, dislikes and they all somehow connected with each other.   They have all called us parents "mama and papa".  Last night, I was looking at the pictures of the boys together, it hit me and I missed the sounds of the boys being here in our home.  We are very proud of them.  They are where they are needed and that is to serve the Lord and find and guide the people the way to Eternal plan. 

Elder Lewis (Taylor) is serving in Anaheim, California and has been out 7 months and was the first to go, Elder Harley (Jackson) is serving in Bangkok, Thailand and also been out 7 months and our son in which he celebrated 6 months yesterday in Washington D.C., North ASL and now Kale, soon to be Elder Wright in a few months.  We love you guys.   

 

The four missionaries!

The time has arrived, finally.  6 to 7 months after the "three amigo" got their mission call and left for their mission field.  Kale is opening his call tonight.  This was done by Jackson's sister Kayla, so cute.  Their family must be excited as we are.  :)  Will post where he is going tonight.

August 8, 2012

Hello Mom! Can you say 6 months? Yep today is my official 6 month mark of being on my mission. Crazy how the time goes. You just get so caught up in doing the Lord's work and being on the Lord's errand that the time that you think is gonna last forever, lasts a moment.

Sad to hear about the new wildfire. I will pray for it to rain very hard out there for a whole week. I can't wait to hear the news about Kale! I've been looking forward to this day for a long time, and Kale, bud, I hope you don't go to Canada either. Blegh Canadians. Maybe you'll get called as a Washington DC North missionary. Now wouldn't that be the day?

So the first time I heard about Dakota's collarbone was last Friday when D S told me about it. I felt sick for the rest of the night knowing that my little bro was in pain. I remember the day when I lifted the dresser off of you Dakota when you first broke your collarbone. I know God gave me strength to do that because if you are ten now and that was 8 years ago, I was only 11. And that dresser was not small. Now you have broken twice as many bones as I have in my life. Dakota=2 Me=0. I guess you're winning. I love you Dakota! <- that is me coming to hug you.

 Mom, it would be super weird if you didn't have glasses anymore, but I guess I'll just have to live with it haha.

Carson, I would be honored to do a talk for you. You made me tear up a little bud! I'll write the best talk ever and it'll be just for you :)

Autumn, I'm super proud of you doing all this great work in dance and stuff! Just keep working hard and doing the right stuff!

Anyway, I can't remember if I told you we have recently got more investigators, their names are D, J, S, and J. Along with K that makes 5. K's family is really cool, we have lots of fun with them and are now just trying to work with B to become ready to baptize her.

President F is awesome. We helped him move out of his old house last Saturday and on Monday went down and did some yardwork on his new house and they fed us dinner. And we did a super awesome spiritual thought where I was the angel Moroni and Elder L was Joseph Smith and I came to him 3 times in the night and told him about the Book of Mormon. Super fun.

Well do me a favor and send me some stamps! I love stamps, but not as much as I love all of you! I love you as big as universe! Remember, we are the decisive element. To the edge my loved ones and beyond! -Elder Schoemig

August 1, 2012

Hello my mother!  I am doing great!  Just kinda sweaty cuz we got done playing basketball just barely :)  Can't believe that Amanda and Codie have been married for a year!  Shows how fast time flies.  Before you know it they'll have a bucket load of children 

I hope and pray for you everyday Mom.  I want to be the best missionary I can be so you will be proud of me. 

We have gotten some new investigators recently.  Their names are D, J, S, and J.  They don't know each other but they all live in DC.  One of our key indicators this transfer is asking everyone for referrals, and we are asking everyone!  It has led to lots of referrals and the new investigators we have found.  You gotta find to teach, and you gotta teach to find I guess.  Our work with K and the I family has been going great, we had to postpone the baptism for some reasons but she's still super excited. 

This week I've been kinda sick, so pray for me to overcome the sickness I've been having.  Also on Monday Elder L and I got into a little spat but it's over now.  That's weird that we were both feeling frustrated at the same time haha.  We have a psychological link between us haha.  Luckily there is repentance and forgiveness that allows us to get past our mistakes and move on.  Forgive and forget, as somebody said.  

Next week is my six month mark, and I'm contemplating having a party.  You should do one too and take pictures haha. 

To the edge my family in friends!  Remember "freedom is knowing who you are, and once you know that, everything will straighten out for itself."

LVE, Elder Schoemig  ,\,,/

 Oh yeah I forgot to mention we are getting a senior couple in the ASL program in September!  Elder and Sister J I believe their names are.  This will be a huge boost to our program and our branch!  I know the Sister has been an ASL teacher for 30 something years and is a certified interpreter so this is gonna be great for the Lord's work!

July 25, 2012

Hi Mom and the rest of the cyber-world that will happen to read this letter!  If for some reason you are somebody from the depths of Mongolia and happen to be bored and just reading random stuff on the web, I invite you to visit mormon.org to find out more about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.  There got my cyber-proselyting in for the day haha :)

Well first thing I wanna do is let everyone know that I am deeply sorrowful to hear about the terrible school and movie theater massacres.  We must remember in times like these the Savior's treatment of the woman adulterer. "He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.... And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst.When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?  She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more."  It is not easy to forgive acts like what has happened.  We love the man, we hate the act. 

Well now onto a happy note!  K is still a sweet little angel.  She is so sincere and excited to learn.  We had a lesson with her and her older sister, S, and her mom, K, on monday that went really well.  I made S and K hug each other, kinda like when Grandpa would make me and Amanda hug hahaha.  I know they can come back to the fold and experience the happiness that comes from it.

Shout out to Ben and Dana!  Especially Dana cuz I met someone from Hanksville!  His name is Elder W (don't know his first name).  I asked him where he was from and he said Hanksville so I told him about you too and he knows you! 

Congrats to my cousin Garett who I heard did amazing singing at the Broadway Revue in Monroe yesterday!  That's my Donkey right there, always singing :)

I'm glad Autumn is doing great and working hard, and I'm glad that Dakota has turned into a lacrosse monster! 

Today we visited the National Gallery of Art and it was super cool to see all those famous works that are in there.  My favorite was the one of the she-wolf and Romulus and Remus, obviously from my love of history in general and especially the Romans.  Another cool one was one where one guy was knocking another guy out of boxing ring.  Another cool one was a portrait of Napolean Bonaparte (shout out to my friend Kevin , who I have no idea if he's still at school or on a mission or what.  Somebody please find out!)  There were a lot of pictures and sculptures of scriptural things; lots of crucifixion ones and a really big cool one of Daniel in the Lions Den.

Well the Book is blue, the Church is true.  My testimony is that the Jesus Christ is the Son of God, He true business lived and died for us.  For you and for me.  He set up His church through Joseph Smith, for the salvation and exaltation of all mankind.  (Can you tell I discovered how to change the font? :P )   I lve you, and to the edge, Elder Schoemig

July 18, 2012

Hello Mom! I think that it is worse for Grandma and Grandpa to call all the time, it'll only make them more homesick. I know that if I had that option I would chuck out all the time. ( that means to be lazy) I got a letter from Grandpa from New Zealand though, super sweet he sent an All Blacks stamp and a leaf and a picture. I had to decipher his handwriting but I got it all eventually. It makes it more fun :)

I'm glad dad made it to work ok. Sounds like the car has been giving a lot of trouble lately. Maybe if Utah just had a Metro system like they do here we wouldn't need any cars.

That morning with Autumn sounds like a classic start to any youth camp hahaha :)

Sorry to hear about your ankle. I will be praying and fasting that everyone will get through their injuries/sicknesses and will have no more in the month of August. 

Guess it's time to play "Here's what happened in my week!" We have been doing a lot of less active work recently to make up for the lack of investigators we've had, but had an amazing Sunday where all the people we contacted and asked to come to church, did! That was pretty sweet and satisfying. We extended a b'date to K at church, we set it for August 5th! Hopefully all goes well! I have faith that it will. For transfers (duhn duhn duhn) we have some news. We are both... staying! That's right in all likelihood Elder L and I will be together for at least 2 more transfers. Elder W got moved to Anacostia and will probably be there for two. To be honest Elder L wanted to go to English program to have a change of pace, but the Lord decided that Elder L was needed here. I'm glad to be with him, our companionship unity has grown over the past few days.

The road goes ever on and on, down from the path where it began. Oh boy I better not singing that song, it'll make me trunky for "The Hobbit" this winter.

I love you Mom! AS BIG AS THE UNIVERSE!!! To the edge, your son, Elder Schoemig.

July 11, 2012

Hey! I loved the pictures that you sent! Everything looks so good and pretty and big haha. I love my cat haha. I love hearing about everything that happens each week! I didn't know that Micah and Sarah got in a wreck though! I'm glad they're alright. I got a letter from Elder Harley yesterday! It made me feel so good that my friend on the other side of the world sent that to me. I'm gonna send him a letter ASAP.

The work here goes slowly, but my head does not hang lowly. Unintentional rhyming haha. We got a new investigator, a 9 year old girl in a less active family named K. She is super sweet and gentle. Her desire to learn is unreal. After we taught her yesterday she gave Elder L a hug hahaha and Elder L just looked really awkward haha. She is golden and I can't wait to see her get baptized! I think J got interviewed for the priesthood last Sunday but I'm not sure. I'll check up on that. He's super good. Rides the Metro for about an hour to get to church cuz it's slower on Sunday. He's a boss. Brother A has really been helping us with our storytelling skills lately. Hopefully by the time I get back I'll be a master storyteller.

I love you all and it's time to say goodbye, for now. Keep up the great work, keep fighting the good fight, stay the course. To the edge, Elder Schoemig.
(Mom's note:  Micah is my brother.  His family was in a car accident last week on Thursday, it rolled once but they came out of it fine, Micah was the only one received a very very minor injury when he hit his left hand on the windshield, still sore but fine.  We are grateful that they are okay.  Car is totalled but that can be replace.  I wrote him a letter but apparently it sounds like he hasn't got the letter about it.  :) )

July 3, 2012

Hello hello hello outside world! My first order of business is to wish my older sister Amanda a very happy 21st birthday! Whooooohooooo! Happy birthday Mandi I hope it is the bestest you've ever had! I love you!

Just to let everyone know, those storms we had were awesome! But dangerous and I do feel bad for the scores and scores of people now without power. It was beautiful to watch on Friday night though.

On Sunday John was confirmed! It was super good. Also the famous interpreter, Wing Butler, showed up to church with the Arthur family and I got to talk with him. He said that Mom told him on FB that he HAD to come see me haha. John was excited to meet Wing, since Wing interpreted the Joseph Smith movie and John loves that movie.

I'm hopin and prayin for little Lexie to get better. Also for all the fires to stop.

I'm emailing on Tuesday cuz President Matsumori wanted us to cuz tmrw all the libraries will be closed. I can't wait for tomorrow, it'll be so fun to be here in DC for the celebration of the birth of our nation! Our plans are to go to the Mall in the morning, check out the Folk Festival, go to Red Robin for lunch, the Heath's for dinner, and tomorrow is an all day P-Day so I'll get to watch the fireworks tomorrow!!! I'm sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo pumped!!! It's gonna be sup totes awes and ridic and HA! classic. Tomorrow will be the best 4th of July ever.

 

This morning I gave a workshop on humility in district meeting. That is one thing that I've really tried to learn on my mission, is humility to put the Lord's will before mine, and to serve my fellow man. It was super powerful and I could feel the Spirit very strongly. I talked about Nephi and his Psalm (a very good read, 2 Nephi 4, and thanks Grandpa Jarvis for always talking to me about it) and the 14-0 Lone Peak Knights of last year and how they weren't perfect but they were humble every week and practiced hard and they achieved their goals. Also how spiritual they were, the morning of the championship game I remember going to do baptisms for the dead with about 15 of the guys.

I love you all and wish you the happiest 4th of July you've ever had! And happy birthday Amanda again! To the edge, Elder Schoemig

First investigator's baptism, J

D, Elder Schoemig and D

Elder L, J and Elder Schoemig

Elder Schoemig's first investigator's baptism

Elder Schoemig, J and Elder L after the baptism.

June 27, 2012

Hey Mom and the rest of the world! First things first.... had a successful baptism last Sunday! J is such a stud and he's gonna be a great member for the rest of his life. He just needs to get confirmed this Sunday. And I guess an interpreter named W or something is coming to church this Sunday. He did the Joseph Smith movie and I'm looking forward to meet him. With our other investigators and such we are trying but it's all  in the Lords hands. We are also trying to search for new investigators too cuz we don't want there to be a let down in the work.

Sound like everything is really crazy at home! That is super sweet that Elder H and Elder G are companions. I will probably get the package tomorrow at zone conference but I'm sure everything in it is fine. Shoutout to Jake Kramer and Jordan Wetsel! Sorry you both got puked on. How come no puke got on Chandler? I think it is Jordan's responsibility to puke on Chandler ;)

Shout out to my boy Kale Wright! Can't wait to hear about your mission stuff bro! 4 for 4!

I love you all and must now say goodbye and to the edge, Elder Schoemig

June 20, 2012

Wow Mom, I can't believe that about Danny. He's such a stud and really taught me how to be humble and loving. Dannnnnnny!!! I looooooove yoooou! 

Thanks for sending the package. I'll probably get it next week at the temple or zone conference.

 

Ok biggest story of them all.... are you ready for it?.... ok here it goes.... J (our Chinese investigator) is sooooooo awesome! He's a super stud and I can't wait for his baptism, this Sunday! Elder L will be baptizing him cuz he really wanted to and I know how much he wants to so I told him he could do it. We had another VC tour on Monday with John, plus F and M, and our super awesome friend S R, who is a member. It was really touching and powerful, especially when we invited them to pray near the temple by themselves and I went and prayed for them in the trees and the glow bugs were all around me. F and M are stubborn though and still said they will go to church but not be baptized. But J is awesome! He told M flat out yesterday in our tithing lesson that she should get baptized someday! What?! How sweet is that? Gosh I'm just sooooo pumped for him he is the smoothest guy. 

Today we played touch football outside the Smithsonian "castle" with a bunch of Elders and it was soooo hot. It was sup totes ridic ;) And I got my picture taken with Miss Sugar Land. It was funny Elder T (we are on exchanges) was like, lets go get a picture! So we did. Anyway I love you all! To the edge, Elder Schoemig

June 13, 2012

Thanks so much for the email mom! one more thing to put in the box, the sd card from my camera! the one I have now is running out of memory.

Wow, all of us in the Scouting program! In the Ensign this month there is a super good article on Scouting and how it helps young men on the path. Shout out to my Scoutmasters and leaders! Brothers Gardiner, Richards, Hunt, Maxwell, Neider, Isaacson, Chidester, Kammer, Mihu, and Carlson! And if I forgot someone I'm very sorry.   But I think that's everyone.

I love the pics of Grandma and Grandpa Jarvis!   They look super happy and their place looks sweet! I vow one day to visit the far off islands of New Zealand! And yes please send me a map of NZ too.

Wow I can't believe Simon is gonna be back so soon. Seems like yesterday we were skating in the ramp in Davy's backyard haha.  Super excited for my boy Brady Webb! Big B!!!

Well today we had a bbq with a dillion missionaries at our bbq. Ok not a dillion but 20ish came over and the house was packed and it was awesome. ASL missionaries know how to throw a party. It comes from my practice of having dances in Mama and Papa Lewis's basement.

Super awesome day yesterday! We had a sup totes awes district meeting, then went to lunch with Elder L and B, our Zone Leaders. Elder B said he reminded of Teancum in the Book of Mormon. I was very humbled, that is super high praise. Plus Teancum is one of my favorite all time BoM dudes. Then went to the VC and had a lesson with J and Bro T. The Spirit was super powerful, especially when we watched the Joseph Smith movie and walked around the temple and took pictures. We invited him to baptism on June 24th and he accepted! Wooo hoooo! Baptizing the world, one person at a time! haha  We are so excited for him, he is super cool and funny. We also had a lesson with A at Gallaudet and then went to F's house at 7:30ish and taught F, M, and J again!   Super cool day!  Another highlight of the day was when we were at the VC waiting for J, two of my boys from the 2011 Lone Peak state champ football team were there! Sam and Tyler!   Those two men are studs and I was so happy to see them!   Wow I was in shock as I just hugged them. I love those boys.

Keep on havin fun at home, cuz I am havin fun here! I love you Mom, Dad, Amanda, Codie, Autumn, Chandler, Dakota, Carson! I love you all my aunts, uncles, and cousins! I love my grandparents! I love my friends, especially my brothers Kale, Mike, Elder Harley and Elder Lewis! I love the Gospel and I loooooove Jesus Christ!

To the edge, Elder Schoemig

June 7, 2012

Wow.  First of sorry I forgot to inform everyone that P-day was moved to Thursday cuz we went to the Washington Nationals game today!  Super sweet and tons of fun even though they lost to the Mets, 3-1.  Got tons of pictures.  Did everyone know that Bryce Harper, the star centerfielder for the Nats, is a member?  And he is only 2 months older than I am! 

The pictures of my Grandparents setting apart and departure for Wellington New Zealand mission made me cry.  I don't know why so don't ask.  I'm gonna miss them even though we've already been apart for the past 4 months.  Somehow the American continents won't be the same without them.

We had two super cool stories this week.  The first is on Thursday night Elder L and I chose 3 streets each on a section of our huge wall map and then shared em with each other.  One street matched!  So friday we went and tracted it and we met this guy from Cameroon named C.  He was super cool and said he believed our words!  I asked him if he believed God sent us and he said he was in the basement and had a feeling to go check the door and he opened it and there we were!  Wow so awesome!  It's a referral for the English elders in that area, but still cool we got to meet him.

The next is on Sunday afternoon we were checking a referral from Elders T and V and we decided to knock on a door and a woman named B and her son C live there.  They are super cool and B has met with Elders before but because she's in the National Guard (shout out to my Uncle Tim!)  she had to stop.  Her fiance has recently died so she was very emotional.  I asked her the same question I asked C, if God sent us, and she said Saturday night she decided to fast and pray on Sunday for more wisdom and lo and behold we show up!  Wow I felt prompted to ask her to be baptized and she accepted!  Another referral for the English program, but we are all on the same team here :)

Congrats to my little bro Dakota on makin it far in his baseball tourney, I hope he wins!

 I love my family and I love my God.  This is my testimony, that the Lamb who was slain now lives.  His love is all-encompassing and incomprehensible to my mind, but I know one thing, that He does love me, and you, whoever you are.

(Mom's note:  He did not get transfer so he gets to stay in his area.  :)  Dakota's team won 3rd place tonight.)