Week 38

Monday, July 17, 2017

So, I love being a missionary!!!

This past week was a good week. The good always outweighed the more or less, as always haha. We found some good people to talk to, and me and my comp and making memories for the ages haha. There is no better time to be a missionary than now, or ever. 

This past week the highlight was by far the Zone Conference with the new president, President and Sister Amo. They are so cool!!! They talked about one of the things that matters most as well. Agency and Obedience. These 2 go hand in hand, just as me in baseball haha. I loved what they talked about and how it tied into what I read today. 

I read the talk from Elder Hales in last conference and was just so uplifted by it. Elder Hales talks about how to become a Disciple of Jesus Christ and he said something really interesting. He used a phrase "selective obedience" and that really stuck out to me. In our lives, we have the ability to choose to obey or not. And, sadly, there are people who are "selective obedient" people. People who obey when they want to obey. And then there are those people that obey, but being compelled to obey. Then there are those true disciples who obey because they use their AGENCY to obey. It says in Alma 32 that people who are humble without being compelled to be humble are much more blessed. So, if we obey without being compelled to obey (use our agency that way it was intended to be used) We will receive All of what God has to offer. Man that was a cool connection. 

So everybody, don't be compelled to obey or be humble. Be All In!!! Love you all and have a great week!!

Love Elder Nelson

Week 37

Monday, July 10, 2017

What a crazy week 

This past week has by far been one of the most eventful packed weeks of my mission. We moved houses on P-Day. Had quite a few crazy teaching days in our group in Estância Roque, and had a baptism last Saturday. 

The new house is legit. I feel like I am in America sometimes. Last P-Day we moved all day so we had like on time to buy food and prepare for the week like we normally do on pdays, but it was still good. Then, we had a few weird days in our group. Like, just with some things that have happened, are happening, and will be happening in the future, it just makes me grateful for the guidance and help that the Lord gives each one of His servants. He is always so willing to help each one of us no matter what has happened in our lives or not, He is always there to lend us support and to teach us through His holy Spirit.

Then, we had the baptism. Man, was it good. Me and E. Peterson found her, and it took some time ,but she was finally baptized by her brother that came back from a mission a year ago. It was so cool to be here and see her growth. She grew slow, but steady and now she's a member of the party of salvation. We were talking about the spirit as well yesterday and the coolest thought and feeling came over me. 

We read Moroni 10:5 and I know that that is like the most obvious scripture to use to teach about the spirit, but I just could really feel my testimony of the bom and this work grow so much. It is just so cool to see the way the Lord works with people and us. Love you all! Have a good week. And Be All In!

 Love, Elder Nelson

Week 36

Monday, July 3, 2017

This past week was a good week. More stressful than what I wanted, but it turns out that that stress was a good stress haha, just like all the other challenges that come from God. 

This past week was transfers. I got my new comp and we just continued to find the people that need to hear and accept the gospel. This is the 6th comp in my 6 transfers on my mission, one every transfer. I actually like it. It has been really fun. A lot of experience tell I you that. We also moved houses today as well. The move was good. The new house is like American. It is so cool! Really weird but cool. And last but not the least...the new Mission President came in. President and Sister Amo. Brazilians. It should be legit. Finally my Portuguese is going to get good. But other than that, nothing really happened. 

This week I have learned a lot about how to really love people for who they are and for not what they've done. In life, it may be easy to point fingers and to look at people and judge them for what's happened in the past. But, to become like Christ, we can't look in the past, cause He never did. So, to change that, we need to change ourselves first and look at them as the way Christ does. Just something cool and really worthwhile if you can really look at people for who they are and not for what they've done. 

Love you all! Hope you have a good week. And Be All IN!

Love Elder Nelson

Week 35

Monday, June 26, 2017

So, a mission just doesn't really stop. Like ever.

 

This past week has been crazy. 1. We had a baptism. This guy was legit as well. He like left smoking in like 1 week, after having a whole life problem with it. That just tells you of the power of God! So cool. 2. Transfers came! I am staying here, while Elder Coleman is going to be my ZL here on Fogo. So I will be receiving Elder Bowman. He is a cool guy. Should be an interesting transfer haha. 3. We are moving houses next Monday!! Man, the new house is so cool. Nice, clean, comfy, new. So excited. 4. New Mission president this week. Brazilian. Should be fun. 5. The Lord Lives. And because He lives, we live. 

I said that last one cause it is so true. This last week has been a blessing. Just knowing that the Lord knows what you are going through is everything you need to be happy in this life. He really is the Good Shepherd. He cares for us. He watches over us. He loves us. That is really all I can say because that is all anybody needs to here in order to know what to do. So, everybody, old and young, please give your heart unto the Lord and He will shape you and mold you into who He knows you can become. Just Let Him In and you'll never be the same. Love you all! And remember, BE ALL IN!

Love Elder Spencer Nelson

 

 

Week 34

Monday, June 19, 2007

Man this week was a very interesting week. 

 

So, transfers aren't for another week but I got a new comp, elder Coleman. My other comp went to be a branch president on the main island he went now because the 2 missionaries there are both dying this transfer haha. So, life just got a bit more stressful. But it is all good. The area is still good. The people are still good. Antonio, who came to church this past week, will have plans to be baptized this Saturday!!! His life is so cool. He quit drinking on his own, after years of an addiction. He is also quitting smoking. Man, this guy is so cool. Elder Peterson said before he left that he is the sexiest old man there is haha. 

Anyways, life is good. Mangos are good as well. There are loads here and I love them. Best fruit I have eaten here yet. Nothing is happening this next week, other than the baptism. Just some finding and showing my new comp around the areas in which we serve. I love it. 

There really isn't much to say other than you all should study your scriptures DAILY. Last night, I asked this member about scripture reading. He served a mini mission and is our ward mission leader, so you would think he would read daily right? Well wrong. He reads a little here and a little there. Man  it just made me so sad to here that. So people, if you aren't reading your scriptures, and studying them, DAILY, please do the,. Be All In for the Lord. The scriptures have more power than we realize. 

Love You All. Love Elder Nelson

Hey Dad, 

Happy Fathers Day!!! Man, I can't believe that it is already that time of year. I always remember all the good times we had during fathers day and all the good times we had camping and fishing and working in the yard and all that good stuff. Thanks for being a great dad. Now that primary song has a different meaning now haha. Thanks for all you do Dad. Love you more than I love sports. Which is very very high haha

Love Elder Nelson

Week 33

Monday, June 12, 2017

This past week was AMAZING!!!

You know there are always those good weeks in the month and year that just get you pumped to like be here on the earth? Well, that was one of those weeks this last week. We had our Last Zone Conference with our president and interviews as well. He is going home. Dieing. Leaving the mission life. The new president will be a braziallian (ha...ha...) President Amo or president D. Amo. But it will be a good experience. Super excited to maybe, finally, possibly, with some luck, be able to speak Portuguese haha

This past week the work was good. Our recent converts are helping a lot with teaching their friends and family members this past week, so that is helpful. Church was also good, we found some new less actives( what else is new haha) and some really cool new investigators. 

Just a quick thought as well. During my interview with Sister Mathews, we ate a otter pop. Man it was good. But not the best part though haha. She was talking to me about how we are called to our missions by the Prophet and God. That is so true. But then it gets better. We are then called to mini missions, or the areas where we serve, inside of our mission. Which then means that God really does know the details of our lives. Wherever we are, whatever we are doing, if we are being exactly obedient, and my favorite part, if we are ALL IN, the Lord will bless us. So, just know that the Lord will always provide for you if you are ALL IN.

Love Elder Nelson

Week 32

Monday, June 5, 2017

Man, this week was a slap in the face, which was what I needed haha, but really good too. 

 

In Cova Figueira, there are 3 areas you can work. Cova Figueira, Estancia Roque(1 hour walking but 15 minutes drive up the mountain) or Figueira Povão(30 min walk). So, what happened this week was a baptism that wasn't expected to happen until next week. But the person who was going to baptize her was going to be out of town next week, which was when the baptism was scheduled. But that was good. And I have no batteries for my camera so the baptism pictures may be a bit for the last baptism.  

 

But with the area thing, me and Elder Peterson spent 4 days in Cova Figueira, and 3 in Estancia Roque. That is what we usually do, but after finding nobody new to teach in C.F., and having our only baptisms come from Estancia Roque, we are like completely changing where we work. It is so funny haha, cause here in C.F. is ALL less-actives. Dead serious. Everybody either has a family member who is less-active or they are, or sometimes both haha. And when people like either don't want to talk to you or have another religion and bash on yours, it gets really hard. 

 

But I think I have forgotten something that is really important when things get hard. When things get hard, I tend to focus on the negative, which is bad. And when I think on the bad, Satan comes in. And when Satan comes in, you don't want to work. And when you don't want to work, well then that's that. So the lesson I learned this week is to remember who I am. I needed to remember that I am a missionary for Heavenly Father, the most powerful being ever representing  His son Jesus Christ, who went through all the days of his life, alone, just to save You. So as advice from a missionary, Please remember who you are. Because when you do, Satan doesn't have power to drag you down cause you aren't focused on the negative.

Man, I love slaps in the face cause then the Mercy and Grace of Christ comes in and just heals you completely because you are of a broken heart and a contrite spirit. Man, don't we all have the most amazing person on our side. Love you all. Have an awesome week, and as my Mom, whom I love dearly, always says, Remember Who You Are. 

Elder Nelson

Week 31

Monday, May 29, 2017

Hey Guys!

We have this member who always comes up to us and says, "Hey Guys" It is so funny. He says in a way that it reminds me of Elf haha. I love that movie!

This week was awesome! We had another baptism and are planning to have another one this week. But that wasn't even the best part. The water is usually supposed to be about waist high right? Well this wasn't a waist high baptism, but a shin high baptism. It was so funny. Then, they didn't even like lay down or kneel down to make it easier. They just stoop up and the member just pushed him in the water. It was so funny, but a miracle as well cause we didn't know if we would be able to have a baptism this past week, so that was good.

I just want you guys to know how much fun it is to serve the Lord. I love it. I am learning more and more how to give Him my all and the more I do, the more I find true happiness in the work that goes on. At times it may be hard. There will be days where you feel like you aren't good enough. Days where you want to give  up. And not just in mission life, but in regular life. It sucks sometimes. Even when you think you are doing your best, it can still be a challenging task. But then my comp said something interesting. "Would you have wanted it any easier?" And just thinking about that made me realize that life is hard for a reason. So we can learn and grow. And it just hit me that if we asked for it any easier, it wouldn't be God's plan. I know I wright about plain and easy things to understand, but Nephi said that by plain and precious things are the wise confounded and we learn the most from. So in reality, I am writing about the most important stuff right here haha.

So keep living like those servants that God want's you all to be. Love you all!!!

Love Elder Nelson

 

Hey Mom, 

How are you? How is camping? How is Andrew and his harem? haha. I am doing good. Here is some pictures to put on the blog if you want. This was from our trip to the ocean today. AWESOME!!!!​

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Week 30

Monday, May 22, 2017

Man, this was a good week. So much learned, so much applied, just all in all a good week. 

Nothing really happened this past week, except for a........Baptism!!!! It was awesome. I don't have any pictures, but hey, I will show them next week when I remember to bring my camera. But the baptism was sweet. We have been teaching this baptism, Melani, for about a month, getting her ready and all that jazz. So it was really good. The baptismal service only consisted of people from Estancia Roque( The little area where we work as well) And 3 people from Cova Figueira. It was funny. Then we had some good lessons with some references from the stake president and other people.

But then my favorite part was that we walked, and walked and walked and found only 2 new investigators in the past 3 days. Oh ya!! But, it was good. We are now reevaluating our process and hoping to find more new ps this week(whenever I refer to new ps, it means pesquisador, which means investigators) So this week should be a good week!

Also this week is transfers!! Number 5 right here. And we are staying this time for sure. No more emergency transfers(I hope). And I will get you all the pictures this next week when I remember to bring my camera haha. Love you all and hope you all have a good week

Love Elder Nelson

 

 

Week 29

Monday, May 15, 2017

Hey guys!!! 

Yesterday was Mother's Day, so Happy Mother's Day to all the moms who are reading this email. I know I missed out on the food they hand out to mothers on this day so yall have to eat some for me haha This past week was pretty legit. I love this area and my comp is great, the ward is superb, my family is awesome, I received a faca and a legit family came to stake conference yesterday. Whahoo!

So there wasn't really sad news this past week, other than the fact that me and my comp have killed 10+ spiders this morning in our house, all alive and medium size haha. It was funny. But there was really one thing that popped out to me this past week, and that's how much the >Lord loves us.And I found out the hard way that the Lord chastises those whom He loves. When we aren't doing what we need to be doing when we need to be doing it with Exactness, we get chastised for it. I think the reason for that is not only to show us the power of God, but to show us HIs wisdom of the Heavens. He knows what each of us can become, what we were born to accomplish in our lives. Therefore, He knows that paths we need to take in order to reach our full potential. So the Lord will always chastise us. Always. It is just up to us whether to accept it or not. If we don't, we won't have the opportunity of reaching our full potential. But if we do, if we let Him change our willing hearts, we will become the gods and goddesses Jesus Christ suffered for us to become. What an incredible thought

Well, that was what I learned. Good lessons this week, good investigators, great work etc. No life is better than that of a true disciple of Jesus Christ

Thcau! Elder Nelson

 

Hey Mom, 

I just want to wish you happy mothers day again. It was wonderful to skype yesterday. Now only a few months till Christmas hahaha.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Week 28

Monday, May 8, 2017

Hey Fam,

Man this past week has been of ups and downs and in the middles. But all those ups and downs and in the middles all involve Christ, so therefore, they all work towards good.

´

This past week we started a bom challenge with our ward and so far, it is really good. People are actually reading, even more than me, which isn't surprising to be honest. Life is good. Today we ran out of water so we are now taking bucket showers haha. First time on the mission, but I am sure it won't be the last. Lessons have fallen and people are hard to find, but I learned a very powerful principle this week from the riccardi letter and a division with my zl. 

The Lord sends the hard days to see if He can trust you. If you get easy days after easy days with hard days in between, He may not trust you as much as you think. But if a hard days come after hard days, with some breaks in between, then you know you are doing something right because then Satan is trying even more hard to get you down. So remember, keep trying, pushing, and swinging and things will work out cause you have the Lord on your side. 

Vocês têm que continuar e perseverar atê o fim para alcançar vida eterna com Deus e Jesus Cristo!

Com Muito Amor, Elder Nelson

 

 

Mother's Day skyping

 

Alright. Next Sunday at 5:30 my time I will see you all!! Have fun a see you soon!!!

 

Week 27

Monday, May 5, 2017

Hey Guys

So this past week has been a pretty fun week. Lots of walking, walking, and more walking. I sometimes feel like the ratio between the amount of walking and lessons taught is very skewed, because here, loads of people live far away, like a good 10-15 minutes sometimes. But on the bright side, I'll have some iron thighs when I get back home haha.

So this past week we have been preparing some people for baptism. It's been awesome to see the desire of the people change and see their face light up when we talk about baptism. We also had a few days where we found some really cool investigators. Before my mission, I never really believed that the people were waiting. That may be and to say, but that was kinda what I thought. But looking back now at my 6 months in the field, I just am shocked that the people are really ready and waiting to receive it. And there may be times where they don't receive You, but you at least planted the seed in their heart and helped them in some way. And that is what I have learned here. Is that by small and simple things are the miracles brought to pass. Because when we do the small and simple things in life, our faith grows, and we will then be able to notice the big miracles because of that faith that was tested. 

And this past week we also walked up to Estancia Roque, which is up in the mountain ranges of Fogo, twice haha. It is about 3 miles to walk up there, and it is all up hill, which is pretty steep. So, to end this weekly email, is there not a better feeling to have than of your clothes sticking to you and feeling the drops of sweat all over your body, and having a waterfall on your face? See? I don't think there is haha.

Well I hope you all have a good week, and I hope that you all notice the small miracles in your life, even when things become hard. 

 

Love Elder Nelson​

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Week 26

Monday, April 24, 2017

Hey y'all

This past week has been the funnest week of my mission. With mission tour, becoming a godfather, and walking around my area a whole day this week just doesn't end haha

Mission tour was awesome. Elder Zwick came and he talked to all of us, but I felt like he was just talking to me. He explained so much about working with the ward, and in a whitewash, that's really your only source for stuff haha. But it was really legit. Then sister Zwick talked and ssaid something really cool that I think is pretty sweet. "It is a privilege to be a missionary." I just think that is so cool. So remember guys, it is a privilege to be a representative of Christ, missionary or regular member. 

So I also trained a greenie this past week for a day and a half, and it was cool. He was awesome and I am now his godfather haha. It was pretty fun. And so yesterday, we walked around our whole area pretty much and didn't teach anybody. But it was fun cause it's the work of the Lord, and of course I did something goofie. And whenever I do something weird, you know you will get a good laugh haha. 

Well keep up the good work y'all. Love you all and hope you all feel the Love of Christ today and forever.

 

Love Elder Nelson

 

Hey mom

So it was a really good week. I loved it and wish every week was like it. I am glad that you and dad went to the temple. It is so worth it. I miss it. And I know it may be hard at times, but whenever we sacrifice our time and energy, even when we don't think we can, for the Lords will and sake, we will receive 10 fold and be blessed beyond our own imagination haha.

And you do have to be 16 to work there. And I'll send Emma an email about the LAC. And the food is different a bit. And me and Elder Peterson get along great. He is like the Jeremy that should have been if that makes sense. And we get a few. More than my last like 3 weeks combined in the old area with my old comp haha. And one more question. Will you send me a screen shot of the basketball playoffs this next email please?

And the shoes look good. And me and Andrew should have the same shoe size I think. Have him check my vans and if they fit him, then the shoes you will order, and if they fit him, then we are good. And whichever one you think is best, do it. And as for food, idk. Surprise me I guess. And did you find my white sweats?

Love Elder Nelson

Week 25

Monday, April 17, 2017

Hey Y'all

So guys, I just had the funnest week of my life so far. Transfers happened. But these weren't just any transfers, they were emergency transfers. Big difference haha. But I got a call saying I was staying one more in Praia, the big city of Cabo Verde, where you can find pretty much whatever you need. Then on Monday night, Elder Bisk, AP, asked me if President called. I said no and after wards was kinda stressing out a bit. Then after DM, President texted me to call him, so I did. And come to find out I got transfered to Cova Figueira, in Fogo. Completely different life style than Praia. Here, there is pretty much nothing compared to Praia. And so that was my week. But there is good from this week. The good is that Easter came. 

Last night we watched a Easter video at a FHE, and it was incredible. I am just so greatful for Him and His sacrifice for us. I know that whatever we are going through that He will be there for us. And even in times of trouble He will always be there for us. I read from somewhere this story that I love so much. 

This guy, one day, was looking back at his life with Christ at his side. Every experience he had was defined by a set of footprints in the sand on the beach. He could see everything in his life, all the good, bad, fun, sad, etc. At some points, there were 2 sets of footprints and at times, only one. He asked Christ "How come you didn't walk with me when I needed you most? Why weren't you with me when I felt so alone?  Why was I abandoned by you?" But then Christ looked at him, and with Mercy in His heart, and Grace in His eyes, he said to the man, "I was with you 110% of the time. Those moments where there is only one set of footprints wasn't you being alone or abandoned. It was Me carrying you in my arms. I have graven you in the palms of My hands." Let us all remember the Savior, as He always remembers us. Love you all. Keep up the good work back home!

Elder Nelson

 

Hey Mom,

 

Yes I did get transfered to Fogo, which translates to Fire in Portuguese. It's cool here. A lot less people and a lot less things to do. It's really weird. And I forgot to mention that I am whitewashing. Yay me!!! haha. It'll be fun. And I actually have a comp who will be exactly obedient cause he wants to be and it's what's asked of him. I am so happy haha. And I am glad that you are all doing good there at home. I pray for you guys every day and hope that you all feel my love over there. I also have a few things I need like really bad. And don't get mad or anything but here is the list haha. Most of the things too I can't find here in Fogo, or in Cabo Verde in general haha

1. Good durable shoes that look missionary appropriate. My feet are 11 inches long. They have some here, but elders have said that the material sucks and don't last long at all, especially in Fogo, where it's mountains and lava rocks everywhere. Brown colour as well. Sorry about that you can use money from my account to pay for the shipping or the shoes, whichever is more expensive. 

2. blistex, neosporin, athletes foot cream, shoelaces, and then ,my white basketball shorts in my dresser. They should be there. And I did get my other package. thank you so much for the food and bubbles haha. I will try to get pictures to you next week. Love you all 

Elder Nelson.

Week 24

Monday, April 10, 2017

Hey Guys!

So this past week has been busy! Transfers, Soccer, Segundas, and just the usual mission life.

So this week transfers happened and I am............staying............with..........Elder Price again! Party! It will be legit. I am excited. We have got some people lined up for baptisms this next month that are pretty cool, so staying one more together will be awesome! Also, every Monday we play Soccer, and let me say, I didn't really like soccer before and I could never play at all. Period. But now, soccer is the life. Especially when you play without any out of bounds. You get so tired but it is such a blast. And then every Monday, we eat at this one place is Sucipira, called Segunda's! And let me tell you, it tastes so good! I love that place. And it's only like 2 dollars so it's really cheap. It tastes so good! Well that is about it for this week. Not a lot happened in terms of investigators, transfers in the zone, or eventful week. But one more thing.

Bible bashing is a strange thing. We got a reference from these elders in Achadina, and he was legit...until he started denying the fact that he could ask God if the B.O.M was true and was saying that the Bible has everything we need, so we don''t need to ask God. It was sad and frustrating. So peeps, with all my heart, and should and strength, if you have a question about anything, ask God. He is there for You. He knows you perfectly. And with Easter coming up, no better time to pray to Him and give thanks for the greatest gift given to mankind, both on this earth and other earths. Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! Keep up the good work! Love you all!

Love Elder Nelson

Week 23

Monday, April 3, 2017

Hey Family!

This past week has been a bit difficult, but hey, it's all good when you have the Lord on your side! We were able to get some good lessons to some people who we haven't really been able to talk to. So that was good. We also had some fun in trying to bring people to conference. We watched all sessions, and since we are only like 5 hours ahead of SLC, we watched them like normal pretty much. It was great. I hardly understood it cause it was in Brazilian Portuguese and I am only like 4 months out. But it was still good because it's conference.

My thought comes from conference, of course. Since it was in Portuguese, I only got a few thoughts, but they were good. I don't have my notes so I am just paraphrasing, but I think it was elder Hales who was talking about kindness and faith and charity, and how Christ was the perfect example, perfect example, of those attributes, and every other one as well. And when I heard that, I thought of a scripture in 3 Nephi, can't remember the reference, but Christ was saying we should be as He is. And when I heard what Elder Hales said, it just brought so much peace to my should knowing that I can be like my father in heaven and like Jesus Christ. It was awesome. I know this church is true, and that we can become like Jesus Christ because this plan of salvation was made so that we can. Love you all and hope you all have a good week

Love Elder Nelson

 

Hey Mom,

Yup, so that was like my highlight of the week haha. And I just also kinda had it with my comp being disobedient and kinda lazy, so this week was kinda stressful in that respect. But everything else is good. And I am glad that everything is good with you and the fam. I hoped everything was. And to answer your questions....4 marked for baptism, I am good, and it is not pretty. It has some good places, but the overall beauty of this place is not very good. It is not what you see on the internet. And no I have not gotten my package yet. When did you send it?

 

Love you all. Hope you have a great week!!!

Love Elder Nelson

 

 

Week 22

Monday, March 27, 2017

Esther,

Happy birthday Esther!! I can´t believe you are 9 years old. I am so happy to be your brother and sh you the best birthday ever!! I won´t be home for next birthday as well, but just know that I only have one more to go after this . Stay awesome and happy!

Love Elder Nelson

 

 

Hey Mom, It has been a little bit since a personal email, so here you go.

This transfer ahs been awesome. I am so happy to be in this area. It is wonderful. I also love serving so close to everything I need. It is a blessing haha. I am doing good this week. It has been a bit hard at times but still good as well. I hope everything is going good for you at home. I hope that everybody succeeds the way they want to. I am so happy for the gospel and am thankful that you raised me in it. Thanks for being a great Mom. Love you so much.

Love Elder Nelson

P.S. Pictures of a BBQ this pasty week and then that weird film crew day haha

 

 

 

 

 

 

Week 21

Monday, March 20, 2017

Hey Y´all! Man I love the southern language!

I am doing great. This past week was one of the most uplifting weeks I have had in a while. There was some spiritual stuff and some funny stuff. The funny stuff should come first haha.

So we had another elder stay with us this past week for a few days because he had to renew his visa. And while he was with us, a church film crew was here to film a follow up about what happened a year ago. A year ago, this lady was baptized because she was involved in some self reliance group by the church. And the guy who baptized her was struggling with some financial stuff so that's why he was in the class. Both are successful now. And the best part was that the visa guy was put in the film haha. We only had like 2 lessons that day, but man it was a day to remember. I also talked to an Australian guy who had a legit accent. It was awesome!

The spiritual stuff was awesome too. This past week was zone conference and interviews. We also had a powerful lesson with a husband of an internal investigator. Finally. But since everything will take so long to explain, here is what I learned. The Lord will never forget you. I love that. Also this story. So a guy was walking down a beach, leaving footprints to represent his life. At the end of his life, he met God. As he looked back on his life, he saw sometimes only 1 set of footprints. "How come you didn´t walk with me when I was alone, facing those hardest challenges of my life?"(Just a paraphrase here haha) this guy said. God said, "I did walk with you every step of the way. Those times of only one set of footprints was me carrying you through those challenges and difficulties." I testify that this is true. He will never forget us. We arte Golden sons and daughters to Him. Golden. Precious. Loved. Cherished sons and daughters of God. Love you all!

Love Elder Nelson

Week 20

Monday, March 13, 2017

Hey Y'all!!!

Its a party out here in Cabo Verde!! And whenever you have a party you always got to bring something. Well, this country decides to be so, so, so, so, so........HOT!!! I walk outside and already break a sweat within the first 5 minutes of walking haha. I am going to go crazy here. And the best part is, cause you always have to have a best part, is that it is only March. Which means it will get WAY WAY WAY Worse But, that's the mission life so I wouldn't trade it for the world cause I am representing the Savior.

So, this week has been pretty good. Got some new investigators, some went to church, had some really good chicken and rice, like every day, and me and my comp are doing great. Zone Conference is tomorrow so that should be fun. I just like it because I get to sit in an air conditioned room for like forever haha. But it will be fun. I'm excited.

My thought this week comes from what I have been studying about obedience. I know right? Like a missionary who needs to study about obedience. But, in reality, we all have something to work on. So, something I have chosen is how can I be more willing to submit my will to the fathers will without holding any part of me from doing his will. And as I have been studying, I found an answer, kinda, in the story of the 2000 stripling warriors, Not only are they wicked good at fighting, they are really willing to do the right thing. And I think that is what we need to do in our lives as well. We, at times, think that the Lord asks to much of us. But when we really understand that this plan and these laws and commandments and rules are to help us Become like Him, will we then obey willingly, withholding nothing from the Lord? I know that I am only 18, and still pretty weird and awkward haha, but I testify that if we do what we are asked, with the knowledge that it will help us become more like Him, willingly, then we will be blessed and receive even more blessings in our lives.

Sorry Nothing cool happened this week. I will need to find some more pig lips or dog fights or something to include in next week. But until then, Thau!
 

Love Elder Nelson

Week 19

Monday, March 6, 2017

Hey Y'all,

Ya so this week was kinda interesting. Transfers happened this week and they were by far the weirdest transfers ever. Well, only being on my third transfer on a mission I kinda canºt really say anything, but I am a missionary so I think it counts haha. I got to be shown a new area and that was fun. Letºs just say that it was alot of walking. I still donºt even know like half of the area cause itºs so big. But Iºm glad that I have a good comp who knows the area. And funny story.

So my last comp, Elder C, served in Bela Vista, the area I am in now, my first transfer in Eugenio Lima. So, my second transfer in EL, he came to me and Elder P, who was in my zone my first transfer, went to Bela Vista. So when I got the call I was going to my last comps area and would be serving with somebody I knew, I was like wow. Anything can happen. But its all good. Love the area and love the people. Also got a baptism this past week!!!! I got to the area and literally that Saturday they got baptized. What a weird thing to happen. Iºll send pictures next week of the baptism and of the area. But love you all!! Have an awesome week!

Love Elder Nelson

 

Hey Mom,

How is it going? How is life? I am glad that you are doing better. I was praying that you would do better and you are so that's good. I am glad that everybody is doing good as well. I miss talking to them and everything. But I know that by next year before Halloween I will be home. Next year haha. I am glad about Emma getting a car. I miss driving . Driving was fun. I am glad that Esther is doing well to and Andrew. Tell them I say hi. And tell Kyle that I say hi as well and that when I get back home, I will need some time to practice basketball again before I play with the ward cause I suck!! Anyways haha. I have also emailed sis mills back. But I will email her again. Tell her I say hi though haha. Also when will the package be here?

Love Elder Nelson

Week 18

Monday, February 27, 2017

Well this past week was a bit of a struggle but a good struggle haha. It all started with a division on Wednesday. I stayed in Eugenio Lima with Elder B. Santos. He just got called to serve here in Praia. He has been waiting for his visa. So, having an American who doesn´t speak English with a cape verdean who doesn´t really speak english was a blast haha. We even ate some food that has made me sick for like a week now. Idk what I ate but for sure whatever it was wasn´t good. But live and learn haha. After the division, the next few days were a bit tough. Tensions were a bit high, with transfers coming up and everything, but we made it through the week alive and healthy, mostly haha. And as for transfers.....I will be serving in Bela Vista with another American, Elder Price. Bela vista is right next to our area but is in a different zone. So not to much of a change. But if there is one thing I have learned this week is to trust in the Lord, for He knows you perfectly and knows what's best for you. So grateful for this opportunity to serve the Lord here in Cape Verde!!!

Elder Nelson

​Here are pictures of us and the Elders in Achadinha at Noite Integracão. And a few others of me and Elder De Jesus on divisions and one of bispo giving a thumbs up and a few of me with some less actives and members of the ward. Hope you enjoy

Week 17

Monday, February 20, 2017

Me, I am good. The weather here is still hot, but we have had a few cloudy days. And we even woe up one morning with some rain. I was so happy haha. The food is good. I haven´t had any problems with it, except for last night haha. We ate at a members house, and she doesn´t know that I can´t eat pork. So we had kachupa with pork. I didn´t eat the pork, but I got a little sick. I almost threw up during a lesson hahahaha, but I didn´t and I didn´t that night. The Lord is watching over me haha. The language is coming along, slowly but surely. Studying everyday and whatnot. And as for my comp, his name is Elder Cosmo. A Sorry for that little detail I forgot to mention. Sites, not really any to go and see haha. As for pdays, relax, eat and play futeball. Which, btws, is really fun. I am actually like 38% ok haha. And as for the things I asked for, send them in a shoe size box, or smaller. Transfers are next week and Idk where I will go. Love you mom. I will pray for you and will also send an email you can send to the blog. 

Love Elder Nelson

 

 

Week 16

Monday, February 13, 2017

Hey Mom,

I am better this week. Loads better. It has been really a good experience for me to get and learn from a different culture. Thanks so much for the love and support. I love the hugs that you send in the email as well haha. Also I need shoe glue, not polish. Hope you didn´t send me polish cause I have that already. And the bag. Don´t forget the bag haha. Love you mom, so much. I can´t wait for the next really hug 

Love Elder Nelson

 

 

Man this week has been crazy. One of our families we are teaching decided to have a lot of questions one night. So we had to answer them because it was about the law of chastity. So we ended up staying there or and hour and a half. Pretty long. But then at the end of it, the "wife" decided to feed us. So we ended up eating some food with some pork as well. And the pork here is not very good. So for that night I was freaking out about the food cause you can get really sick from the pork here. But turns out everything was fine. Didn´t get sick or anything. 

Next, we had a division with the zone leaders and it was awesome because I ate pancakes for the first time since the mtc. But the mtc food isn´t really that good, so the first time had I pancakes since forever. Jk, but really though, it was super cool to have American food out here. 

But the thing I learned most is that we are God´s children. He loves us. No matter the challenges we are facing, He will always be there for us. I know I am not the best at diligence, far from it, but it really does make a difference when we try every day with all our heart and might and mind. And if there is anything we need help with, Christ and our Heavenly Father will help us. I promise yáll haha

Love you and wish you the best of luck in life

Love Elder Nelson

Week 15 Toughest Week

Monday, February 6, 2017

 

What if you just feel like giving up all together? Even after you try and try and pray and try again?

That was good, but it´s not just wanting to give up. I feel worthless, pathetic, and more down on myself than before. And when youre like that you never want to work

What if you just feel like giving up all together? Even after you try and try and pray and try again

Oh my son....I prayed and prayed and the worked harder than I ever had before...

What if I am to weak?

 

Just remember don't give up.  Father and the Lord won't give up on you and neither will we!!!! Remember the scripture the story of Elisha and the battle?  The Lord told him that they who be with thee are more than they that be with them!  There are those who have gone before and those waiting to come who are cheering you on.  I know it feels overwhelming, but miracles ae coming!!!!! 

 

 

Thanks for the hugs. 

I am so sorry.😕  Lots of ((((((((hugs)))))))))   Here's ((((hugs))))) from Esther!!!!!!

Thanks y´all I appreciate all the encouragement you have given me. I will try to remember what you guys have told me. Thanks mom. Love you lots!!!!!!

Andrew says Hello...with his Andrew smile😃He's off to school!

Thanks mom. I needed this. Sorry for no weekly email

Love you too!!!!   Very Very Much❣

 

Week 14

Monday, January 30, 2017

 

Hey Y´all

This week was just a wonderful week of amazing tender mercies from the Lord. Being with a new comp has been difficult. My Portuguese's is not good and I have no idea how a Brazilian will act. And so the week commenced. Started like how any normal week starts haha. Hard. But that just makes the good times better. My Portuguese was horrible, still is, and it was a rocky start with the new comp. But I kept my faith in the Lord and He made the rest of the week amazing. We had great lessons and found some promising investigators. As for the mission changes, we only have to report 4 key indicators to the mission president every week. Nova Ps, Baptisms, Investigators who attended sacrament meeting and investigators with a baptismal date. It´s great. 

We also had zone conference and interviews this past week as well. They were awesome. At zone conference we learned about the plan of salvation «, taught by Sis. Matthews. It was one of the most deepest lessons or meetings I have had. It felt so good and the spirit was so strong. Then interviews with president were great too. To sum up the past week, I would say this. The Lord knows His sheep. Never does he forget them. Never. Just when you are in the gulf of despair, He saves you and gives you another challenge that He knows you are ready to accept. Love you all. Keep up the good life. 

Love Elder Nelson 

Week 13

Monday, January 23, 2017

This week has been crazy.
 

Transfers happened this week and my dad, who was in the area for 7 months, got transfered to Assomada. And I now have the opportunity to serve with a Brazilan, Elder Cosmo. We have different views on things, but he is a cool Elder. 

Cape Verde is pretty legit. It´s hot everyday, but other than that no complaints. I bring some sad tidings of great depression. The 2 investigators who were really strong, the brother and sister, told me and my comp that they can´t continue with the lessons because of their parents. And one investigator we´ve been trying for over a month to get baptized didn´t come to church this week. So we have to move his date back another week. It´s been sad to see the choices of people and the consequences from other peoples choices. But I wouldn´t change this time I have to serve the Lord fro anything. 

There really isn´t much else other than my language skills haha. But I know that if we put our trust in God we will not fail. And I was reading a scripture this past week, Ether 12:27, and this applied to me so well. God gives us weaknesses or struggles so that we can rely on him. I thought that was so cool. So, if you ever think that you are bad at something or weak in a certain area, just know that God knows you personally and will help you with whatever thing you need when you put your trust in Him. 

That´s it for the week. Keep living that good life

Elder Nelson

Week 12

Monday, January 16, 2017

Hey Mom,

This week was great. We had 2 really really good lessons. The first one was with 2 investigators, a brother and a sister, who when we found them were Catholics. But we taught them the first 3 lessons and they have a baptismal date and came to church twice. What a really cool experience. This lesson that was really good was the third. What a powerful lesson. The spirit was so strong and I almost came to tears when I shared my experience of baptizing Esther and helping confirming her. It was super cool. It was hard sharing in in Portuguese, cause I don´t speak Portuguese, but it was a really cool experience. I love the opportunity to be able to share the gospel out here. Then the second one was with an investigator we have been trying to get baptized for like a month. But we read 3Nephi 27 and I can´t remember which verse it was but it says something along the lines of "Be like me and your Father who is in heaven" I really like how Christ thinks we can be like him. It also left an impression on him and I was just super touched by the spirit. It was a super awesome lesson.

And the funny part this week was that we had 3 divisions. It was really weird to be split up from my comp for that long. It was normal for one day, then since my comp is the dl, he had to do some interviews for baptism. So I spent like 2 full days this week with a native companion. It was sick. We taught and since I stayed in my area, I had to be in charge. I was so scared. But the Lord helped me and I was able to de at least a decent job at it. 

Thanks for your support as well. I really appreciate you and am glad that you are my mom. It has been hard at times, and harder at other times. I regret not being the best son to you, or brother to my siblings, but I want you all to know that I love and appreciate every one of you. Thanks for being the best examples to me I could have asked for. I also have some pics for you all of my area. Finally. Love you all and keep up the wonderful examples to me and to everybody else 

Love Elder Nelson​

 

Week 11....Dog fights and Pig lips

Monday, January 9, 2017

Wow this week has been crazy! So many things have happened that I can´t believe it´s been all in a week.

Well to start off, on Wednesday, I had this bowl of Katxupa the size of a frisbee. It was huge! but really good. As for what Katxupa is, it´s a dish tat is made with anything people can put in it. Mainly corn, like the corn the pilgrams used when they came from England, and chicken and beans. But it´s really good. Then on Sunday, yesterday, I had more Katxupa. Like literally the same size as before. If you ever visit Cabo Verde, be ready for Katxupa to be thrown at you from every side.

Dog Fights:
So yesterday, me and my comp, Elder Robertson, were waiting for an investigator to come to his house cause he said he would be there the day before. But he wasn´t there, se we called him and he said he was on his way. While we were waiting, we saw 2 dogs going at it hard! The fight went on for like 5 minutes before they people dumped water on them. After the battle, the one dog we saw was all bloody from the neck to the head. Man, how exciting to see that. Myfirst dog fight in Cabo Verde haha.

Pig Lips:
In Cabo Verde, we aren´t allowed to have any pork sold from off the streets because it´s not healthy. They like literally slaughter them on the side of the road. Really cool but also really disgusting. So, while me and Elder Robertson were waiting for a less-active to be done with work, the people he was working with offered us some katxupa. And here if you say no, they get Really offended. So we took it and guess what it had in it...pork. But not just any part of the pig. Oh No! We had to get some katxupa with pig lips in it. In my head I was thinking "I am going to die" Funniest thing ever.

So there is a little bit of culture from Cabo Verde. And I saw this only on one day, so just imagine what I have seen in 5 weeks haha. Man, missions are great. Thanks for all your lve and support.

Love Elder Nelson

Week 11

Monday, January 9, 2017

Hey Mom,

I am doing good this week. We had a long week, but very good. We had alot of lessons and Dinow, the les-active who has been having some problems, came back to church! I was so happy cause my comp ha been trying since like July to bring him back to church and he actually has. I am so happy. Also we had some investigators who came to church. I was also really happy about that. We have been trying to get people to come to church for like 4 weeks and now since they have come I can´t describe my joy. This week has been very hard in terms of language though. On tuesday I wanted to come home. We had a rough lesson with somebody who realy wanted to learn about the book of mormon. I tried to explain things but he just became more confused. I felt horrible. I also had to ask my comp to repeat alot of things to me after because I wasn´t paying attention because I couldn´t understand what was going on. It was really hard. But then I prayed for help and I received it. Took me the rest of the week, but I fnally humbled myself enough to where the Lord could teach me. I am so grateful for his sacrafice for all of us. One thing I say alot is he sacraficed for us yes, but he did it for each one of us individually. There really is no way to compare the love of Christ´s atonement.

That´s awesome that all of you are doing good. I am glad that Dad is meeting with people. Happy that Emma is doing school. I think she will do really well. Andrew is just a stud with what he´s doing. And Esther... I miss her. Thank you for your confidence and your love and support. I pray for you guys all the time.

Love you all and I hope that you have a good week at home.

Love Elder Nelson

Pictures

January 2, 2017

Week 10. Happy New Year

Monday, January 2, 2017

Hey Mom,

I am good here. This week has been crazy. Here in Cabo Verde, people go crazy over the holidays. Espically Christmas and New Years. They have all these parties and all these crazy drinking parties. It´s so funny to see people drunk on the street. One of our less-actives we saw this morning and he was all crazy like. We also walked that same guy home when he was drunk on Christmas. Idk how people like it but they do. We also had alot of first lessons this week. We teach that moer than anything here. And sometimes we only get to teach like a simple principle because people here say they don´t have time. Who knows haha.

I am glad everything is going well with you. I hope that things continue to go good for you in this new year. Lots of opportunities to serve and be an example.

Love you mom and I am so grateful that you have been in my life to bless me and help me when I´ve been feeling down.

 Love you

Elder Nelson

Week 9. Christmas

Monday, December 26, 2016

Had a wonderful visit with Spencer!  He is doing really well and is loving his mission!!  We are grateful for his service and love!!!!                                           MERRY CHRISTMAS!         

Week 8

Monday, December 19, 2016

Hey Mom,

Everything is good here and it is getting better. The food is still getting used to, but so far I haven´t had any problems with being sick. Except for the part where I drank unfiltered water. Something President and Sister Matthews told us not to do. It was a funny experience. More about that later.... This week has been a good week. Long but short at the same time. I had a division this week with the zone leaders. Elder Holms was the one I was with and it was super cool to serve in a different part of praia. But I confess that I missed my area because it´s my home. Anyways, we taught alot of lessons. Espically first lessons. We have like 15 new investigators who either have heard the first message or just something small about the bom. But either way, we teach the first lesson far more than we teach anything else. There is no rain here as well. Like the only time it rains and is even wet in like August and September. And get this. What we consider a light shower for like 10 minutes, or even 5 minutes, they consider a downpour. Like it´s crazy. The weather has been a bit cloudy as well and windy, like super windy, and they think it´s cold. Even my comp thinks it´s cold. It´s only like 70 or 80 degrees but they think it´s cold. I don´t get it. But oh well, mabye I will eventually haha.

I am glad everything is going well for all of you back home. It has been a bit lonely at times not being able to just walk home and sit down and relax with you guys but at the same time, I am soooooooo glad I came on a mission. The Portuguese is hard and it is taking alot of time. But I know that I will have help from above. The gift of tounges is so very real. And as far as skype goes, I will be skyping with you guys on Monday at 2:30  my time. So that is 8:30 your time in the morning of the 26th. I can log on with dads account and then you can use mine. Andrew knows his way around the xbox. Just tell him to turn it on, log into my account and go to skype and look to see if dads account says he is on. That should work. If not, I´ll also be on my email so we can work it out that way as well. I hope you all have a great week and thanks for all your love and support. My thought for the week comes from Elder Holland. He says "How ever far you think you have traveled; however many chances you think you have missed; however many mistakes you think you have made, I testify that you have not traveled far enough of the divine light of Christ´s Atonement shines."
That is so true. We can always come back even after we think we can´t. In the Ensign, there is a talk. It´s title is "Am I good Enough? Will I make it?" Read it and pray to God to ask him what he thinks of you. Your answer will be mind blowing.

Love you all.

Amar Elder Nelson