Transfer...Sao Marcos "A hole"...

Oh it was so awesome to able to talk with you guys! I loved it so much! Sorry my English was horrible! It was really hard to speak because I was thinking in Portuguese at first. Yeah I figured dad was sick. He didn't look to good there. It's a bummer that Natalia got sick and Jeff too. Haha but I had such a great time with all y'all.

About the Nalley's chili, well it's good to eat. It's just hard because we don't have a can opener in our house, and yeah the taste isn't that good as well. I'm just used to beans and rice right now, it's kinda hard going back to American food. haha

Well, in my other area, Sister Inez, she gave me a mug, a Santos mug. It was really sweet of her :) and also, I got a lot of food. From my area here in Sao Marcos, I got cake, this thing of wood, I guess it's pretty rare to find here in Sao Paulo. and also ice cream! So mostly food., so it's all good!

Yeah we ate at the 2nd counselors, house yesterday, it was a basic meal. But as always, it was really good. And about Elder Ferreira, he has been out 3 months in the field. I only have a transfer ahead of him. So it's been pretty interesting. I'm his second companion. He said he has been learning a lot. I asked him if there is one thing that you have learned from me. He said, "Man, first off, you will teach anyone anywhere. And second, holy crap, you are not afraid to talk about baptism." Haha

The place I'm at right now is called "A hole". They haven't had a baptism here for about a year. The numbers are really low here and what not. So, my first week here I got our goals from my companion. And well, I asked him, how many people do we have set for baptism? Haha he goes zero. I am thinking, oh great...and our goal is?... 7. I asked him, do you think we can reach our goal? He goes... uhhh yeah, but I don't think it's going to happen. Sure enough this week, we had 7 people accept baptism! What a blessing that was! But we can do better. Our goal is to get 10 people.

We have one investigator that's really firm right now. Marli... She already knew the church and what not. But we found her in a contact. Her daughter is a member and her son, has major issues with drugs. The area I'm in has a lot of drug dealers and problems with this. So, its been interesting. But she is set for a baptism in January 22. I don't have my planner with me at the moment. The cover is getting plasticized so it will last longer. But over all, things went well with the transfer. I already knew my companion so that was pretty sweet. Since I'm in the same zone I was in earlier, that's pretty rare I guess. But I hope all is well!

Oh I think you guys might get a good laugh out of this. But I cut my hair by myself. Haha in less than 10 min with some scissors. Hopefully, it didn't turn out way bad. Before the transfer, my hair was getting pretty long, and I didn't have time on P-day to get my hair cut. So... I cut it myself. haha its cheaper, and it was pretty fun. Anyways, I thought you guys would get a good laugh out of this.

I love you all and I loved seeing you and talking with you! I can't wait for Mothers Day :)

With much love,

Elder Firl

Halloween Pictures

Enjoy the pictures!

Celebrating Halloween and a Birthday with the American and his family

Jake bobbing for apples

Transfer this week!!

I haven't had a chance to go to the mission office yet. But i will tomorrow. I will be transferred tomorrow morning. So... this kinda complicates things. I couldn't believe I got transferred. They decided to do transfers this week at the last minute. But I did get a letter from the Evan's and I sent them one back, no worries.

So this week was excellent! With yesterday receiving the phone call that I will be transferred was tough, really tough. But I know the Lord prepares his people. I love this area so much and it will be so hard to leave. Tonight we will have a giant family home evening! I'm excited for that. Also, with Christmas coming up, I want to inform Alex, that I got him a little Christmas present. :) I love the rest of the family, but Alex will love his gift, I got it way cheap and what not. But you will have to wait when I get back. Haha and as for the rest of the family. I will get you guys things too. But Alex, I got you a Barcelona Jersey! And it has Messi´s name on the back of it! Hahaha oh yeah! I thought you would like that. Don't poop your pants just yet. It has his number and everything :) And it will fit you when I get back. It's a large. So no worries. SO don't get a jersey like it.

But this week for church, pretty much nobody showed up because of the final, between Santos and Barcelona. Santos is my team. It's a Sao Paulo team. And well. The game was the same time as church. So nobody came till the last hour. Haha but anyways, Neymar and Messi are way good soccer players and everybody was excited. Turns out Santos lost 4 to 0. Haha yeah I got a lot of crap from the members that my team lost. But it's all good. But this is about it this week!

1. Why didn’t you have clothes to change into after the baptism of Nair & Sidney? Was it because you hadn’t done your laundry? Or did you forget them?
Well, we planned on baptizing Sidney, so I just brought pants for him to wear. I wasn't planning on baptizing. And well at the last second, I was asked to baptize. So I had only the clothes I was wearing, white pants and a white tie. But everything turned out well :) Being wet is so worth a baptism :) so I didn't forget or didn't do my laundry. Just wasn't expecting to baptize.

2. So why can’t you do your laundry if it is raining too much??
Because I dry my clothes outside on the line. So when it rains, it's hard to dry my clothes. Haha we don't have dryers here.

3. So all your ASL (American Sign Language) can’t help you over there I take it to communicate with Nair & Sidney
… haha well it's helped. I am able to communicate my ideas to them and finger spell everything if i don't know the word. So it's helped a little bit :) It's been a blessing, because I was for sure prepared to meet Nair, and talk with her. I mean what are the chances that I took ASL.

4. So have you taught anyone else??
Many people! We actually found a family this week! They are elects (ready to hear the gospel)! Antonio and Adriana. We have taught them the first and 3rd lesson. Have a baptism set for 14 of January. They are so excited and know the church is true. They have a little girl that's 9 and 3 sons. Not, old enough for baptism yet. But such a blessing it was to find this family. It's going to be hard to leave. With an area that was difficult, we are now having success. And I will be leaving it. Talk about a heart breaker. I guess my mission is accomplished here. Leaving the area a lot better than what I found it. Itapecerica da Serra, this is it! Tomorrow I leave for a new area!

5. How is Cleane? Is there a baptism date? Can’t wait to see her via Skype!
Well the baptism, will be moved again. Since she was working again. And well... you guys won't see Cleane, since I'm being transferred. and I don't know about Skype. We will keep planning for Skype! For sure! I'll see if I can work any connections in the new area and I'll call you guys. haha

6. How is Nair and Sidney?
They are good :) Nair, received the Holy Ghost this last Sunday! What an awesome experience. :)

7. What about Geralda, Mayara, and Ingrid? Did they come to church? Baptism still set for Christmas Eve?
Haha its set for Christmas day! :) They didn't go to church, not sure why. And want to know why. But I won't be there for the baptism :/ for Cleane or Ingrid. I'm kinda sad, because we taught everything and I don't get to see the end result. Haha oh well :) were all on the same team.

8. So what changed Elder Viana’s mind to go on a mission since he was so inactive?
Haha well, he prayed and fasted and he knew he had to go. That's what he told me. He knew, he would be even more blessed with the mission. He was explaining to me, that it's not all about the money. But he has realized the importance of family. Here on the mission.

10. Did you get any packages from anyone else??
Hehe I'll see tomorrow. We just don't have time to go to the mission office. We only go about once every month. So... I don't know yet. haha

11. Christmas phone call…if you can give me a time on your end I will figure things out on my end. It looks like you are 6 hours ahead of us. That way I can give a time to Kayla and the Wood family. This means I have to clean my den…you know how hard that is for me this time of year! But I will do it for YOU!!
Haha well with this transfer and what not. It makes it complicated... But I'll try to call maybe the day before or something. Just get the schedule of Kayla and Ma first and we can work it out on the phone. Haha sorry. I'm kinda upset about this transfer. One, I don't wanna leave. Two, this makes Skype and everything else ten times more complicated. Three, all the members in the ward told me they have something for me. Haha and now I won't get it. Haha gosh dang it. Also and more importantly, I will miss the baptisms. AND! yesterday, we talked with the Wellington family, its been awhile, and well we set up a wedding for mid January! haha and their baptism and I will miss that.

12. I sent you money via Western Union for the package...it cost a lot! Can you negotiate and can you find a Western Union?
Haha they won't negotiate. But I will try. It's a government building. But I'll try. There will be a lot of words I don't know, when talking to the bank and the post office. Haha this should be an adventure. I'll let you know what happens. Haha oh great. The bank of Brazil and Bradesco. Haha talk about a living nightmare. Freak! I'll see what I can do about the package. As far as new packages being sent...the claim or price, put something, just make the price low. So this won't happen again. Inform the others. Haha thanks mom for everything! I'll stop by the bank after this! And well, I will try to work something out.

Love, Elder Firl

Two baptisms this week and no change of clothes...

Hey I love the pictures! Sounds like it is freezing there in the states. It's nice and warm over here. It's been raining a lot. Its been difficult to do laundry and everything. haha but its all good. At least the rain is warm. So I have a lot of things to tell.

So I received a phone call saying there is a package for me in the post office. But I have to pay 70 reais ($40) to get it. I don't know who it's from. Because I haven't been able to check if I have gotten any packages. I don't know why they are charging this much. But they said, if I don't pick it up, they will send it back, if I don't want to pay. And well I don't have money to get it. So you guys will probably get a package in about 2 months. I don't know if its from you, ma, grandma or whatever, they won't tell me anything. So I thought I would give you guys a heads up. And on the package, make the price really low on the items on the front. Because of everything. They will be nosy or will want to tax a lot. So anyways.

Also, about Christmas. For sure we will be doing Skype. I talked with Cleane, and she said we can come to her house and use the computer there. She has Skype and everything. Also, I don't know of a exact time yet. But it will probably be at night. Because a lot of members in the ward wanted us to pass by and everything. Also, I have a little wish list. I'm so excited that Jeff and Natalia will be there :) I will have lots of stories to tell. And I'll probably have issues telling them in English. I've noticed that my English is starting to dwindle. I'm mixing the languages together. But mom I will call you and let you know of a time. We have 5 minutes to call to confirm everything and what not. ta bom?

As of this week! We had a baptism this week! It was Nair! She is deaf! So we taught all the lessons and everything to her. I did most of the `talking`. It was a very complicated situation. And well her brother, Sidney, is deaf too. We wanted him to baptize her. Because it would of been a special experience for both of them. But at the last minute, they told Sidney no. Because he can't read very well and can't pronounce the words. We have no way to verify it. And well, both Nair, and Sidney, chose me to do the baptism. SO that was an excellent experience. I felt it such an honor. I had no extra clothes after wards. But, its an experience I will never forget. I will try to send photos to ya, via snail mail. She has the biggest heart. Such an amazing experience. I'll tell you guys on Skype, because it's a really long story. haha

But all is well here! Our area is progressing a lot! I love you guys and thank you so much for the support!

Com amor, Elder Firl

1. So have you figured out any Christmas traditions they do in Brazil?
Well Christmas is pretty much the same thing here. Other than the food is different. They have Christmas eve and everything. haha its pretty sweet. They don't have trees. But they buy crappy fake ones that are really little. They also put lights. But that's about it.

2. Do they have stockings like we do here?
They do indeed! haha its pretty much the same thing here. haha

3. What is your companions first name?
I will try to spell his name. Audecie. He played for Searà, a team in fortaleza. And then he played for Curitiba.

4. Will you be transferred before Christmas?
Nope :) I will stay. But I think I will get transferred after Christmas.

5. Did you get my package yet??
Look acima sobre the package.

6. How is Cleane? Did she go to church? Is there a baptism date?
She is excellent! She didn't go to church because she was working. But we are think the 24 de dezembro for her baptism. But who knows! I think you guys will see her via Skype and Elder Viana :)

7. What about Geralda, Mayara, and Ingrid? Did they come to church again? Baptism still set for Christmas Eve? They didn't go :( yup it is! haha same date!

8. How is Rento?
Again, impossible to contact. We have tried so many times. haha talk about frustrating.

9. We have a ton of questions for Elder Viana!!
Did he play on Sundays?
yup, only Sundays.

How did he balance church and soccer? Having that issue right now with Alex.
Haha he didn't. He only did soccer, he traveled around Brazil and everything. No time with family and church.

Did he go to Young Men Activities and still do soccer practice and games?
Haha nope only soccer.

How does he remain strong in the gospel and be around all the foul language? He said no. He was inactive. For this reason, he said he doesn't want to go back. It's good money, but its not worth it. He had earrings and everything.

Had he played professional before the off to Germany?
He didn't go to Germany, he had a contract for him waiting. If he wanted to go. But he didn't because of the mission.

Does he have a large family?
He has a family of 3 bros and his mom and dad. He is the youngest.

Is playing soccer there expensive like here with Premiere?
Haha its kinda different here. They pay for everything. You play in the streets and on the beach. They pick you and train you and pay for everything.

Com amor, Elder Firl

Time is flying by...

Well it sounds like things are super busy in the Firl home. As for here in Brazil and this week, nothing super amazing happened. We have been working a lot. And I can't believe it's December already! The time is just flying by.

This week, Geralda and her family went to church. That was super awesome. That was probably the highlight of the week. We have had a really hard time with getting people to go to church. I feel as if asking people for baptism is easy. Teach with the spirit and bang! They are touched and accept baptism. haha and then they don't go to church. It's frustrating. We teach about Sundays and the importance of going to church. haha for example. We have 14 people that we have asked and accepted for baptism. But only have 5 are progressing because the others don't go to church. haha I never thought by asking people for baptism would be easier than getting people to church. I thought you guys might get a good laugh out of that. haha but this week we found a family of 4! Heck yeah! We taught the first lesson, they accepted baptism. It was an awesome lesson. The moms husband died. We explain about families, probably one of my favorite things, and well she almost cried. it was sweet! We will teach them again this week :) We are super excited. They are set for baptism on Christmas Eve! haha talk about a super awesome day to have a baptism! Well that's about it for this week! I hope all is well. Keep up the good work with basketball mom, I know winters are a living nightmare, pesadelo, for yeah. haha

QUESTIONS:
1. Eric wanted to know if you got our letters we mailed to you?
I did get the letters :) let me tell yeah, I was so happy to get them :)

2. What are some Christmas traditions that Brazilians have for Christmas?
Well it's the same here as it is there. Just less lights and less Christmas trees. haha I'm pretty much clueless on this kind of stuff. haha its one of those things that ill find out when I get there.

3. What are some things they do different there for Christmas than we do here in America?
Well they have little Christmas trees. They can't cut down trees here and it's really expensive to buy a tree. They have a lot of Christmas lights that flash. They are called pisca pisca (in translation its blink blink), the verb is piscar, which is to blink. I thought you might find that interesting.

4. How are things working with your new companion?
Things are fantastic!!! We are getting a lot of work done here! He is helping me with my Portuguese and I'm helping him with English. haha we have pretty funny conversations at night. He always teases me that I'll marry a Brazilian. (haha not going to happen.) But we talk about soccer, where is used to play what we want to do with our lives. He is awesome, he sacrificed a lot to serve a mission.

5. What kind of things have you done on your P-Day?
I like to sleep and write letters and I don't know, walk around in the shops.

6. How is Cleane? What an incredible experience!
She is fantastic! Our compromisso with her fell through, because she is now working. It's way hard to get a hold of her. We asked her this week for baptism, but she couldn't go to church this week, so the baptism fell through. For sure were going to re-ask her for baptism and set another date.

7. What about Geralda? Have you taught her family too? How about Mayara, and Ingrid?
Geralda, Mayara, and Ingrid are great! They came to church this week. and let me tell ya, this week was probably the best sacrament meeting I've had in a really long time. So glad they were there. Here is what they said. "I have never felt the spirit so strong in my life. I absolutely love church!" Nossa, it was awesome! ` Geralda shared an awesome experience with us, about us. She couldn't believe that she found us. Because we made the contact in the center of the town, she was getting a hot dog. And well, we talked with her and she was like... I don't know why, but I'm not hungry anymore. Crazy! Because she went into town just to get a bite to eat. SHE lives way in the middle of no where. With the time she spent in town it was a miracle we made the contact with her.

8. Did you and Elder Viana teach her?
Yes we did teach her. haha it was legit.

9. How is Audrei and Luciana?
They aren't really progressing anymore. So we had to cut them off. (not teach them anymore) Love them to death, but we are here to find those that really want to be taught.

10. Have you stopped by to see the son of the American?
We have. he is still being stubborn. He has his free agency. We have done all we can do.

11. How is Rento?
He is good. Talk about impossible to contact. He is not drinking and fulfilling the Law of Chasity. So that's excellent. He didn't go to church this week :/ and his baptism is this Sunday. So he kinda has to go this Sunday. We will see what will happen. He is good though.

12. What about Valeria and Victoria? Are they still reading?
Impossible to contact also. I think they fell off the face of the earth. We have called stopped by and everything. Sad story. I think they are trying to avoid us.

13. What kinds of fruit have you tried since you have been there?
I don't remember the name of all the fruits, but I've been addicted to mango. SO good! And the condensed milk is probably the best thing in the world! haha not a fruit, but I'm going to bring a lot of it to the states. You guys have to try it.

14. Did you get my Christmas package? Was it opened? Did you get everything?
I haven't. Although, I haven't checked either. I don't know when we will be going to the mission office. But I'll let you know when I get it. Oh no worries! it's all good!

15. We have a ton of questions for Elder Viana!! We will save those for the next letter!
Haha sounds good. You can ask me questions about it. I'm pretty sure I will be able to answer it. haha

16. Phone call on Christmas…do you have any idea on how we are going to do that? Do I need to get a calling card? Or are we skypeing?
haha it's still up in the air. BUT, I want to do skype. I need to ask Cleane if I can use her computer to skype, since she has a webcam. But I still need to ask. But I'm pretty sure it will be skype. ta bom?

com amor, Elder Firl

Miracles happen....

So I haven't heard from you yet. But ill just write what happened this week. We had a lot of great experience this week. First one was with Cleane and her family.

Cleane: Well my companion and I went to go teach her and her mom (Jeane, Jay-ani) about the plan of salvation. And it was so awesome because literally the spirit guided us. Probably one of the most powerful lessons I have ever taught. We explained about family and how they can be together forever. It totally hit home with them. You could see the tears in their eyes. And well, we asked all the right questions. We explained through baptism they can really have this happiness. And their family and live in the eternities, with so much love and joy with our Heavenly Father. Our final question, Cleane and Jeane do you feel this love and joy right now? Yes. We can have this joy forever, as a family. will you Cleane and Jeane take the first step to eternal happiness and be baptized on December 17? They said yes!!! Freak yeah! Cleane went to church this Sunday too! Jeane didn't, but we will get her next time. haha we had to go and pick Cleane up. Holy cow, I can't describe the happiness in that lesson. It is a lesson I will never forget.

The second experience Geralda. It was a contact we made and asked if we could stop by the next day. Got the address, I didn't know where the street was, but knew the neighborhood I guess you could say. We were talking and asked where this street is at. All of them said, oh it's that way. So we listened to what they said. It was way in the boonies!!! After an hour of walking we thought we were close. We asked some where this street is, they said, oh it's way out there and gave us pretty good directions. About another 45 minutes of walking we though to ourselves, I bet no missionary has been out here. I mean, this place was way the heck out there. But after a little bit more walking we came to a fork. With nothing in either direction. we thought, freak.... were lost now. We thought for a moment and decided to pray in the middle of the fork. Knowing we are messengers of Christ, we prayed to be guided by the spirit to know which path we need to take to share our message with Geralda. Both my companion and I felt to go left. Sure enough 15 or 20 minutes later we found the address. And sure enough we had found more people to teach, her family. Mayara, and Ingrid. So awesome!!! Taught with the spirit and they were balling. So awesome!!! Truly another experience I will never forget.

I learned a lot this week. I learned that one, you always need to be listening to the spirit. And 2 we are messengers of Jesus Christ. He will work miracles to make sure that the people will hear the message. But we have to be listening too. Always be listening. I love what I'm doing out here and seeing these miracles happen! There is nothing greater than bringing a message of true happiness. Hearing people say, I've been waiting for this message. And even better, when we ask, do you believe that we are really representatives of Jesus Christ. And when they say, oh my little angels, Yes I believe it. It makes me chuckle and well think. Wow, look how people look at us. Always keep this in mind as members too. We too are repsresentatives. We are in His church. Be an example and show the way for others. This is my message to you all. I love you all so much. and this week was full of success!

I hope that all is well in the states and keep up the good work :)

Com tanto amor, Elder Firl

New companion! No fat...No worries...

So this week has been amazing! It's gone by so fast! We were really blessed to have a baptism! That was most excellent! Let me tell ya. I love being a missionary. In one year, this family should be sealed in the temple. I wanna go to it! It took 3 months to get Sandra and Mayara baptized. So I feel pretty good! That they made changes and struggled. But I was talking with them yesterday and asked how they felt. And they felt so good and are so happy with their decision. Brings so much happiness to me. Love being a missionary :)

But it sounds like things are going well! Just buy the Letterman's jacket for Alex, make sure it is a little big. Idk I didn't wear mine a ton. But it's all good. You know best mom :)

Love you guys so much. I've been way busy and well the mail sucks here. So I might of not received their letters yet. haha anyways, love the amor and support.

Questions:
1. Who is your new companion and where is he from?
Holy cow! I did receive a new companion this week. And he is pretty legit, let me tell ya! I've been quite blessed. His name is Elder Viana! Is he from Fortaleza! Hhe played professional soccer before the mission and quit to serve. He was offered a contract by Germany. Hard to turn down because that was literally his profession. He is thinking about playing for Real Salt Lake after the mission, he wants to learn English and well study in the states. But he might take the offer from Germany. Who knows. He is legit though. We have been getting a lot of work done. crazy stuff!

2. Did you teach Flavia again…I know you said you and your new companion would go and teach her!
Ugh, the appointment fell through :/ so we haven't taught her yet.

3. How is Cleane? I know you were bold with her…have you taught her again?
Haha we did :) Her and her mom will read and will be baptized when they feel it is true. nossa! So that was excellent! It was nice to teach her family. She is a little snakey, but it's all good. She has a lot of questions and we showed the Joseph Smith Restoration DVD to her. She loved it! We just need to teach slower with her. But things are going so well!!!

4. How about Audrei and Luciana?
Well Audrei took his huge test and well Luciana has a huge test. It's really hard to get a hold of both of them at the same time. But they are slowly progressing. They will be our goal for next month. They just want to know more and more. And they need to pray more and more. I think Luciana is feeling it's true, but I don't think Audrei is. We shall see the next visit.

5. Have you seen the American’s son at church yet? Have you talked to him? Do you still keep in contact with his mom the American?
He hasn't come yet. He is really stubborn. Yeah I still keep in contact with the mom. I see her every Sunday :) I always give her a nice hand shake and talk to her. haha she is so nice :)

6. How is Valeria and Victoria? I know you said they came to church…have you had anymore discussions?
We haven't been able to contact them... ugh so frustrating. We have tried so many times to visit but they are never home. I know they really loved Elder Schmutz.

7. How is Rento?
He is good :) He only drank once and is fulfilling the law of Chasity! HECK YEAH!!! So now we just have to get him to church again and then he should be ready for baptism. :) We are so close and he is progressing so much!

8. How is Sandra? Is she making any progress? I know you said she stopped smoking for 4 days?
HOLY SMOKES!!! She stopped completely! Everything! And guess what! She was baptized this week!!! hahaha heck yeah! João baptized her and her daughter. The daughter took out her nose piercing and everything. We had a really good lesson about it and well she took it out. haha so awesome!!! I will try to send pictures. Seriously, I love this family and the sacrifices they have made. nossa!

9. Did you get my package for November yet?
I got it! Thank you so much mom :) I've been sharing my goodies with my companion. It's been great. The mashed potatoes we had to give away. We don't really look in the house. haha

10. As missionaries do you have cell phones there?
Yes we do. I hate answering them. I get nervous every time. But I've gotten used to it slowly. I get nervous that I will hear wrong. But the Portuguese is improving a lot. haha in fact! Yesterday I gave a talk in church. I had nothing prepared and winged it. haha in Portuguese. Talk about the gift of tongues. Everyone said my talk was excellent. One sister was so funny, she said ` Elder Firl, when you were talking, it was like there was a light behind you. Excellent talk Elder Firl. You made a huge impression on my son. I talked about weaknesses and how the Lord will bless us. I talked about the struggle with the language and how blessed I've been. And I know I have a long ways to go still. And talked about how I was nervous to teach in a language I didn't know, and talked about the blessings, like the baptism that happened. :)

11. So do a lot of the homes you go into have DVD players? Do you hand out any of the Church DVD’s they have?
Yes, a lot of houses have DVD's. We don't give away the DVD's but we watch them with our investigators.

12. How often do you go to the mission home to get your letters’ and packages? Do they let you know when something arrives?
It depends, once a month or every 2 weeks. I just depends. But on average 2 weeks. They do not notify us if we have something. haha

13. How are your clothes fitting now that you have gained the extra weight! We hadn’t really planned on that! Most missionaries loose over there! I guess you have been lucky in that area!
All my clothes fit perfectly still. No worries. It's just like fat I've gain. haha I've just changed. idk. I'll try to send pictures. I'm just filling out, I guess you can say. haha Not fat. No worries. And yes, I have been blessed. All the members give me food and what not. haha the other Elders get jealous. Of course I share :)

14. Have you been told not to buy food from food stands? Or are there guidelines the mission tells you in regards to the food?
I just buy what I want. haha end of story. I am careful with meat. But other stuff, nah. If it's sealed I'm not worried.

15. How is the language coming?
Nossa, the language is good! Elder Viana is helping me, and well, I'm understanding a lot. I've had the opportunity to talk more and what not. It's pretty sweet. Still have issues with wording at times. But it's coming a lot. I'm learning everyday. Everyday talk is pretty easy. There are just a few times where I have to ask, ok what are you talking about. But it's coming a long. Slowly but surely. We got a new Elder in our district. Elder Cox. He almost speaks nothing. It just reminds me when I arrived. I can't wait to see his progress. Ah good times :) It makes me laugh and well I'm glad I'm not at that stage anymore, because I love to joke with the members and talk. The trick to it is to just talk. haha even if you are speaking wrong just talk and they will correct you. haha it's nice. Because when you apply you learn faster and when you don't understand, say you don't understand. haha just don't blow it off. It's been interesting. haha

16. What kind of service have you done lately for others?
Service, lets see here. We have helped people move. haha that's about it. A lot of people move in and move out of the area pretty quick. There are a lot of people from the north and well you get to hear a lot of different accents. The people from the northeast talk so flippin fast! But it's all good they articulate better. haha

Com Amor,
Elder Firl

Gained 15-20 pounds!

Sounds like it has been a crazy week in Utah :) But it sure seems like you guys had a blast :) que bom! But no, I didn't hear about the missionaries in Texas, that were killed. What happened exactly? And yes we are talking more Portuguese in the house. haha But I am progressing with the Portuguese. I learned a lot of stuff this week that makes things a lot more sense. For example... to say will that work for you? they say will that give to you. haha it's weird. But it makes sense. And just little stuff like that. I can understand people for the most part. But its slowly progressing. haha oh comment of the week from the Bishop.

Right before Elder Schmutz was leaving we were saying goodbye to the Bishop. And he goes Elder Schmutz, you have stayed the same. And well... Elder Firl, it looks like you have gained a little bit of weight. hahaha it was funny. Because I have gained a little. Probably 15lbs or 20. Of course the bishop was like, its not a bad thing. You just don't look like a starving kid anymore, haha you look more normal. It was pretty funny. Anyways, I'll answer the questions and peace out! I love you all and love hearing from you guys. boa semana pra vocês! falou!

Com amor,

Elder Firl

1. So what did you and Elder Schmutz do on his last P-Day?
Well for our last Pday we went to Embu das Artes and we bought some stuff there. haha I got a cuha. I think that's how you spell it. Basically it's this giant cup thing to make chimarrão. It's pretty legit. haha likewise I bought a jersey, a Barcelona one, it's pretty sick. I got it pretty cheap! And then I bought a blowdart gun. It's pretty legit. Everything is way cheap. Elder Schmutz, he bought a hammock. It's a rede. It was pretty expensive, but the Brazilian redes are legends in the north. They were imported from the north to here. It's legit. I'll get one later, that's for sure. They are way cool looking and super comfortable. Hand made! But that's about it. It was pretty chill. It was a good way to end the mission with Elder Schmutz.

2. Did you teach Flavia again?
We did. Things are going really well with her! She is progressing. She really wants to know the truth. Me and my new companion that I will receive tomorrow will go and teach her. So that will be pretty sweet!

3. What about Clayani?
Cleane, I realized I've been spelling it the American way. But she is good. She really wants to know why there are so many churches and which one is true. haha she is having issues with reading and understanding. But yesterday, we went over and told he we are representatives of Jesus Christ and that we are telling her this is the only church on the earth with the proper authority. It was bold, the room was silent, but she said really? You are representatives of Jesus Christ? We said yes of course, and that was SO powerful. She she knew we were, in fact. She said, I knew there was something about you guys. But really, I believe that you guys are reps of Jesus Christ. That was such an awesome experience!

4. How is Audrei and Luciana?
Well they are excellent! With much prayer we finally got their interest. With the Plan of Salvation. They had so many questions and well we answered everyone. Audrei doesn't believe in Adam and Eve, but Lucianna does. haha so that was interesting. But holy cow, they loved that lesson and said they believe all we are saying. Elder Schmutz is the man! He teaches so well!

5. How is the American and her son?
They are good. We said our goodbyes to them yesterday. But her son, he still is not going to church. Ugh, it's a tough situation, we can only do so much. Make invites, be his friend and advise him whats best. But he has the agency.

6. How about Valeria and Victoria? I know they have been busy with school.
THEY CAME TO CHURCH!!! Freak that was awesome! I think they really liked it. We will do a follow up with them, with my new companion So stay tuned! But I think they will get baptized!!!

7. I am sure Sandra hasn’t changed and you have probably moved on from here.
Oh Sandra, crazy story of hers. She hasn't smoked for 4 days, and stopped drinking. FREAK YEAH! She had a crazy experience... involving spirits. But anyways, that was kinda creepy. But because of it she wants to stop and become closer with Christ. She just has to pray about it. She is so close and is slowly getting there. Successful week! Let me tell ya!

8. How is Rento? I know he wanted to change! What is drinking café? Is that like a tea?
Well the baptism with Renato fell through, he was working and couldn't go to church. And it's been hard to contact him. So we have to do a good follow up with him and see how he is doing with Word of Wisdom. But the Law of Chasity is what's really hard. Oh Café, its coffee. haha like a cafe.

9. So do you have a new companion? If so where is he from and what is his name?
Not yet, I will receive a new companion tomorrow. I'm kinda nervous. haha but we shall see. I think he will be Brazilian.

10. Have you gotten my package for November yet?
Not yet. or at least I don't think so. haha

11. Do you need more English Book Of Mormons? Or can you get those from the mission home?
I can get more from the Temple. haha no worries. I'm good for now.

12. Does the mission home do anything for Christmas for you guys as missionaries?
I don't think so. haha I'm not exactly sure. President Pinho is new. haha oh his son is serving in Washington somewhere. haha look for an Elder Pinho. I don't know if he is serving in Spokane or Kennewick.

Last P-Day with Elder Schmutz...

Sounds like things are going so well in the Firl home with sports! haha Oh okay thanks for the package! I'll be looking forward to it.

Yeah it's going to be kinda weird not being here around Christmas, but it's all good. I love it here. haha the language is still hard and I'm noticing more things I need to correct in the language. I think my Portuguese has gone downhill because Elder Schmutz and I always speak English. I'm still learning Portuguese, just not as fast. Haha...and my conjugations are killing me. It's all good though.

So its my companions last P-Day today!!! haha I can't believe it! And well we have a ton of things to do today. Sorry the letter was so short, but we gotta a lot to do. haha

Questions:
1. Any new people you got to teach this week?
Well we have many new people, but serious investigators, that's a different story. We found Flavia. She is divorced and well... she totally thinks my companion and I are good looking. haha its pretty funny. She tries to flirt with us. Haha... but she really has a desire to find the true church, she always has good questions to ask. So that's been good!! But that's the only new investigator that's serious. WAIT!!! We did find Clayani and her family. Haha... they are loaded with money! and we have met their whole family. Clayani is 19 and she is the youngest. Her family is really interested in the gospel and we have established a super good relationship with the family. Haha... and she is starting to crush on us. Hahaha... she cracks us up. She flirts but we are just like uh... how are the scriptures coming along. So we have found a couple, but they are really interested in the gospel. They are doing their homework :) So we will continue teaching them, even though its awkward at times.

2. How is Audrei and Luciana?
They are... good. We had an intense lesson about authority and well... we spoke with boldness and said our church is the only true church. Luciana is a hardcore Baptist. So that was a killer to her. But we bore testimony and the spirit took the tension away. Luciana has been doing a lot of reading and always has a ton of questions and always wants proof. Like when she asked if her baptism was valid... and well that kinda made her irritated when we asked how she received the holy ghost and she didn't have an answer. It made her think and makes her read more. its been going great with them though :)

3. How is the American and her son? I know you got a phone call from them and you were going to go see them last P-Day.
They are good. He is comfortable talking with us, but still isn't coming to church, so that's really hard. They invited us to a Halloween birthday party, so we went to that for a little bit so that the son would open up to us. He is really hard to get him to talk and spit out the truth. So now he trusts us. which is excellent!!!

4. How is Valeria and Victoria?
They are super! They found a home so we helped them move. That was a tough one. Haha...talk about a ton of stairs. But they are reading and praying. The baptism didn't work out, but she is progressing :) This week we get to teach her in her new house. It's been hard to contact her. She has had 3 exams and is had to move this week. So it was tough to find a time to teach her.

5. Sandra and Renato? I know they were having issues with smoking.
Sandra is still smoking. We have been checking in with her everyday. We feel like she doesn't really have a desire to stop smoking. So that's been tough. BUT! Renato quit! He quit drinking and smoking, and drinking cafe. But we found another problem. He is having problems with the Law of Chasity... like hardcore. But he said he will stop breaking it. He came to church! And we asked him how the Law of Chasity is going. He said "Dude, it's so hard. But I haven't broken the Law of Chasity. And I don't plan on it. Its so hard though." So we have been helping him. He has heart and knows these things are true and will bless him. His dad has talked to us and said, Renato has changed a lot... for the better. What are you guys doing? Talk about a perfect gateway to teach his dad! He told us he isn't interested, but will time... I think he will change his mind.

6. Did we figure something out for Christmas and calling or Skype? I can get you and International card so you can call home, will that work for back up?
Mom, that is not going to be figured out probably till 2 weeks before. I might get transferred 4 days before, so it's hard to say. But I will call and tell you the info. ta bom? Haha... patience. I can buy a calling card. They are cheap and everybody uses them. But i think what will happen is i will go to a members house, call you before you give you their number and the time to call. And I'll meet there and you will call them. haha ok? That's the best info I can give ya.

7. So do you teach on Sundays?
In church no. But yes we teach Sundays. Haha...we teach everyday.

8. Do you have one ward or two wards you work with?
Just one ward. Itapeceria um.

9. How is the ward mission leader? Is he helping you? Do you meet with him weekly?
Yeah he is helping us. He is a recent convert. It's João, the husband of Sandra! Haha... but he is giving us a ton of references.

Got to run...Love, Elder Firl

"Everyday I learn..."

Oh it sounds like Sacrament Meeting was excellent!!! Haha I was actually thinking about what Tanya said about the person you want to marry.

The first youth speaker was Tanya Baird, I don’t know her very well, she is really quiet. She gave a great talk on choosing a guy to marry is like buying a pair of shoes. It is fun to try out different ones but the one you want and will love is one you want for a long time and you don’t want to wear it out. Like a guy you want to marry you want one that will love you and you will love him and you want to treat him special like you would your favorite pair of shoes. She talked about how she wants to get married in the temple and marry someone with the priesthood who will honor it. She emotionally explained how she hasn’t had father’s blessings before school starts or that when she feels over whelmed to ask for a blessing. She talked to the fathers and pleaded with them to honor their priesthood and give their daughters blessings. And how every daughter should have a father they can count on for a fathers blessing. I didn’t see a dry eye…I felt her pain and her desire to marry a worthy priesthood holder that could take her to the temple!

With Elder Schmutz and I have been talking about marriage and seeing all these couples and stuff. It has been an eye opening experience. haha you kind of see what you want and what you don't want. It's been interesting. Lets just say that. But that is crazy with brother Mayolo´s talk. I have to say being a year out and not knowing the language would be tough. just these 2 months have been so tough with the language. I feel bad for that guy. But Brother Mayolo is right, there will be SO many hard times on the mission. Let me tell ya, this is the hardest thing ever with the language and well just the stress is immense. haha trying to remember where lunch is, which bus to take, clothes to wear and just trying to be as obedient as you can. And then when you feel you as obedient as you can be, the work is slowing down.

This week has been very tough. Literally, everyone of our baptisms have fallen though this week. Between this week and last week. We have figured if we call and try to check in with our investigators this would help. Literally, we have felt like we have done all we can do. Our investigators promise they will do these things and they don't. Especially not coming to church. Ugh, it's hard to describe whats going on here with everyone. But, Elder Schmutz and I are doing everything. haha we have worked as hard as we can. We love the people we are teaching and it's so hard when they don't fulfill the promises we give them. Its so tough, and we explain the importance and what not and then promise to do it again, and they don't. It's literally almost a circle. And we have tried so many ways to help our investigators. Its been tough. But, we know for a fact that they have felt the spirit and they know this will help them. It's just an excuse every time. But I know we are making a difference and we will find a way to help them. We will be guided by the spirit on what to do. I know that without doubt. And with these hard times, I can honestly say, that this is the best time of my life. The hardest, but the best. Everyday I learn, and everyday my testimony grows stronger and stronger. Our numbers are horrible, and it's not always about the numbers, but let me tell ya, this week and last week have been the most testimony building experiences. Even though everything has fallen through.

So after that, its now time to fill you in on what happen this week I guess. haha your questions pretty much nail it, so I'll just fill them in. haha that's easier.


Questions:
1. Any new people you got to teach this week?
Well we have Audrei and Luciana. They are super smart, they are attending the hardest college here. But I think I've already told you about them. They are progressing and are having SO many questions and want to learn more. Every though question they have we answer. Pretty cool, since we are 19 and 21 with little schooling and we are teaching them. And Luciana is studying Neuroscience. haha kinda funny, but we answer everything and they understand.

2. Do you have a branch or a ward?
We have a ward.

3. How is the American and her son?
haha not sure, we literally just got a call five minutes ago to visit them tonight at 9. It was an emergency. haha so that's a great question.

4. How are things with Valeria and Victoria?
Things are excellent! They fell through with the baptism, because they didn't go to church. She had an exam and is trying to find a house to move into. She found a house, and I think this was a testimony building experience for her, because she had 2 weeks to find one and money is tight. She has been praying and reading and the Lord has blessed her with her exam and the house. We are going to help her move and try to get the ward involved, so she can establish a relationship with them. But recently, it's been hard to teach her, she hasn't had time, BUT, she has been calling and reading, and praying. She is still interested for sure :)

5. Rosangela and her family…how is that coming?
Haha well, she is kind of moley. Meaning she just makes excuses and doesn't read and what not. Kinda hard to explain. She seems interested, but is not progressing. So we decided to drop her. We tried everyday to visit and she had a different excuse every time. This was sad, we will trying to visit her every once in awhile, but she isn't ready right now.

6. How are things with Sandra? Renato
Sandra, well.... she has been drinking so we are helping her with that. She also is having issues with smoking again. So we made a plan for her, taught the WofW (Word of Wisdom) to her. She understands the importance of it now. Renato is good! Its hard to contact him too. He is reading and praying as much as he can. He has the desire to learn. Its hard to get a hold of him.

7. How are we going to work the phone call at Christmas time? Do I need to buy an international calling card? What did Elder Schmutz say?
I'll call when its close and I think we are going to skype. It just depends. What sucks is I will probably get transferred 5 days before Christmas. So we can't really plan anything at a members house.

8. Did you get my package yet? I sent a snail mail letter out this week.
Got the package! Love you mom :)

9. Does the ward feed you for lunch? What kinds of things do you eat for lunch??
Haha yes the ward feeds us lunch. Lunch is like dinner in the states. And dinner is like lunch. Dinner is small and light here.

10. Have you played soccer for zone conference yet??
haha nope. The prophet said soccer is banned in all Brazilian Missions. haha safety reason. hahaha so no soccer.


I've been horrible at responding to emails from other people, with the lack of time. haha

I love dad and his example he has set for me. He is the hardest working person and hope to be half of what he is. He literally does everything. He can fix anything! its incredible! idk how he does it. I know as he depends on the Lord more and more he will get over feeling down. I promise this. I know times on the mission here have been SO tough. Because I want to be really good with the language and teach better, right now. And I get super stress, but I've kinda learned to just relax. It's okay if things aren't perfect as long as you tried your best. Just relax and get away sometimes. I'm not saying to slack off, but just let it go. haha its a thing I'm still learning.

Anyways, I love you all and all the support you give me. I'm going to try and send some pics.

Love always, Elder Firl

A busy but a disappointing week...

Oh it sounds like it has been a great week!!! Sounds like the ward has been thinking about me :) I have been super busy out here. Let me tell ya! I can't believe were half way done with this transfer! It has passed by so fast. It has been crazy busy!

Well as for this week. Holy cow it was tough and really disappointing. With over 10 people set for baptism we have been busy. Trying to teach them and get a hold of them. Ugh and well lets just say that they are impossible to get a hold of!!! And well, its really frustrating getting lied to. haha We talked with Rosangela and her family, they promised to go to church. And well... they didn't. We told them we would stop by, we called them to remind them, and what not. haha ugh I feel like we have done everything to try and help them. Ugh. And well Renato is the same story. He showed up for 5 min of church and left. UGH! And well many others didn't come either. So we have been having some issues with getting investigators at church!

And as for Sandra and Mayara. They keep pushing back their baptism date. We keep mentioning it, and asking why that date. And give some good scriptures about how when they FELT these things were true they were baptized right then. UGH! We have for sure learned the lesson that people have their free agency. haha And we are learning to be more direct and disappointed when our investigators do not fulfill our... idk the word in English, but its compromissos in Portuguese. Maybe (assignments idk). Anyways, its been a super tough week.

Likewise, this week we had a lot of meetings. haha Oh and I hate meetings. I just want to get out and work, but we have a meeting for the newbies. Of course I'm still new, but this is the last one I had to go to, but anyways, I got to see my buddies from the CTM (Center for Training of Missionaries) there. haha I got to see how their Portuguese is and what not. And well, I have for sure been SO blessed. We had interviews with the president and what not. And he said, I will probably be training next transfer. I was like... uh.... I'm still having issues understanding the people here and idk everything yet. President Pinho said that I can speak and I can explain. He hasn't seen anyone progress this fast. So I felt pretty cool. haha It's a lot easier to talk and explain my thoughts, than listen. hehe I guess I've always had issues with listening :P haha but anyways I thought that was interesting. I hope I don't have to train yet because I still don't know how to be effective. haha oh well, I guess I'll find out here in 3 weeks if I will train.

Tell Ma Wood that I'm going to send a letter today! We have zone activity today, so idk how long it will be. haha I'm terrible at this writing thing. haha but I promise one is on the way :)

Anyways, it was a tough week this week, with all of our investigators and our numbers being really low. The week went by so fast and it felt like we had no time. But this week will be better. I love the work out here and what I'm doing here. Nothing can replace the joys of people making changes in their live. But it hurts when the people do not progress and what not. It hurts a lot. Sad week this week, but still super awesome.

So here are my answers to your questions. haha


1. Why couldn’t you wash your clothes when it rained? Do you hang your clothes to dry and is it just too humid that they wouldn’t dry?

Well about the clothes. I can't do laundry when it rains because I have to hang dry everything out. And well because of the pollution it will make my clothes dirty. So I have to choose which clothes I want dry for the next day. So its always garmets. I put them out and use 2 fans to dry them. And well then I wear a dirty shirt and pants. haha let me tell ya, they started to smell pretty bad. haha I didn't get the chance to rotate clothes this week. haha

2. Anything more on the Wellington’s getting married?
Well wellington is planning on getting married in Feb. So that's a ways away. haha yeah we taught the kids everything.

3. Are you and Elder Schmutz helping the American with her son this week? What is her name? Holy cow that was an interesting story with the American. Yes, we went over and had dinner at his place. We talked English with him and his family. That was kinda weird sharing a message in English. But yeah, the goal was to make him homesick and so him and his family would go to the states visit and have a better influence there. Because the school where he is teaching hasn't been a good environment for him. So anyways, we talked about home. And well I was blessed having a really good connection with him. Talking about Washington and the Seattle area, and all the good times he had there and the times he would have if he goes with his family to the states. It was cool! The best part was that I didn't even get trunky, (aka home sick), so that was awesome!!! And well I was blessed even more with Ma Wood´s package. I got it that day and well I had to carry the package with me since we were running late. I got the feeling to open the package there. Sure enough, candy and all these American things! He was like holy crap! Play dough and all these other things he loved. Such a blessing to get the package THAT day and that we were running late, so I had to bring the package and opened in there. haha Our Heavenly Father works in mysterious ways I've found. Thank you so much Ma! Such a blessing to get that package right then. You have no idea. I couldn't believe it!

4. When does Elder Schmutz leave for home? Before or after Christmas?Well Elder Schmutz leaves in 3 weeks. haha So he is gonna go to the Philippines for 6 weeks with his parents and then return back to Utah for school. haha So he is gonna get home after Christmas, but technically his mission ends in 3 weeks, so before. If that makes sense.

5. We need to start thinking about Christmas and the phone call…ask Elder Schmutz what is the best to do. Do we need to find you an international calling card or can you Skype that day at a members home?
I'll talk to Elder Schmutz about what I need to do. But I'm pretty sure it's just a phone. haha ok? I'll let you guys know.

6. Still planning on Victoria and Valeria for baptism in Nov.?
Valeria and Victoria are still planning for a baptism but things are getting way hectic with her schedule, so its been hard to get lessons in and talk to her. But they are progressing and are searching for an answer. We have found they feel good which reading. So they have received and answer. Now time for the hard part, to help them recognize they have received an answer.

7. Do Brazilians celebrate Halloween?
I think they celebrate Halloween, but idk. I haven't asked. haha I'm not too worried about that.

8. Is the weather getting warmer?
Yes the weather is getting warmer. But I have found the weather is the same here as it is in Washington. less cloudiness, but its really the same. Its pretty warm, and some days its too hot.

9. Did you get my package yet??
Package, no. I got Ma´s package! :) I'll check next week if I got yours, but as of last week, no.

10. Did Elder Schmutz get some Italian suits?
And yes, Elder Schmutz got a pretty sweet suit there! It was about 200 reais, but if you calculate it, it was about $120 dollars for an Italian suit with a tie. So it's a pretty good deal. haha I'll probably get some clothes there. haha its pretty sick there.

Anyways, I gotta head out!

Com amor,

Elder Firl

A hard but amazing week...

Oh man it sounds like it has been a crazy week! Tell Alex congrats for me! That's awesome that he got his Eagle! As for the other pictures to send, there really isn't much I can do, sorry. Until I get transferred to another area I'm pretty much stuck with the snail mail and printing off pictures, but that gets pretty expensive.

Wait Josh Evans got married? And to Melissa who? haha details! Yes tell Syd to write me! I would love to hear from her :) As for Mr. Lapps class, there really isn't anything you can do. Maybe talk to him or something. haha I have no clue. He is old and doesn't ever mark things right. That's why a lot of people took weights with Mr. Cooke.

As for the higenico (hygiene) stuff, I'm pretty good on everything actually. I'm good on razor blades! The hair cuts we have to find someone to cut our hair. haha I actually need to get one next week, same with my companion. And yes, you can get jerseys cheaper here. But they are still pretty spendy for a missionary. haha I plan on getting a couple more jersey before I leave and some other stuff. But that's a ways to go. I'll see if I can get a jersey for Alex or something. But no, I'm not getting anything Argentina here. haha I would prefer to live.

As for this week though. This week has been SO hard. All of our appointments fell through, which totally sucked! We made A B C and D for everything and they all fell. Which was really weird because it rained all week. So when it rains, pretty much everyone stays inside. So it was really weird. Haha and because of the rain, I couldn't wash my laundry, which totally sucks. haha so I got to wear dirty clothes all week! haha hurray. We walked a lot in the rain, like our clothes were soaked! haha but this is not all. This week was crazy! It's a week I will never forget. We have worked our butts off.

So this week, we were knocking doors. And we came across this older couple. They let us in. It was Pedro and his wife. They are probably in their 80´s. So she answered the door, Pedro was inside with a blanket wrapped around him in his chair. He has a lot of health problems. So anyways, after sharing a message Pedro wanted to get up. His loving wife helped him up. And well the funniest yet grossest thing happened. haha so anyways, the blanket came off of Pedro, he was wearing a shirt, but he had no pants. I mean... he was butt naked. He was right in front of us, like maybe 3 feet. haha so my companion and I saw this 80 year old with barebum. haha and the wife just laughed and said, basically, oh shoot, I forgot he didn't have pants. Sorry guys! haha They went to the other room. And holy crap my comp and I were busting up. Like... did that really just happen? We just saw a 80 year old naked, and saw everything. I was trying so hard to not burst out laughing. She didn't hear a thing. My face was so red! And when she came back we got our cool back. haha Like I said, the funniest thing ever. One, it was a really hard day and pouring rain and two, we were not expecting that. because we thought he had clothes, because he was wearing a shirt. oh so funny.

As with Tenato and Sandra, things are good. They are really hard to get a hold of right now. Renato didn't come to church, but it's all good. He has the biggest desire to learn and find if the church is true. Luciano is good too! he canceled yesterday, which sucked. But we rescheduled him this week. We also invited 2 others for baptism in November, Victoria and Valeria. A mom and her daughter, they will be in November. And then we have Rosangela and her family. We have 10 people scheduled for baptism. What a miracle!!! Because that was our goal. I couldn't believe it. We have been SO blessed! We're doing all we can do and the Lord is doing the rest. Its been so hard to find people here.

So many more miracle happened this week too. In our ward we had an American visit. She is having issues with family down here, with her son. Anyways, long story short, she flew all the way out here. Not knowing the language, trying to help her son and his wife. Her son won't help with the language. And well she knew she needed to come down and figure things out. And she knew everything would work out somehow with the language. So she comes to the ward. And sure enough, two American Missionaries, me and my companion. And two Americans being together never happens. So anyways, she talked to us and told her the story. Elder Schmutz and I translated the whole interview with the Bishop because of the language barrier she has. Elder Schmutz translated since he knows the language better and I'm still learning haha. But, what a miracle. That we were there, to help her with the language and translate. Her story is sad. Very sad! Anyways, we are going to try visiting her son and get him reactivated, yes, speaking English. Anyways, it's a really long story and hard to explain, but it was amazing. It's amazing to see the Lords hand. That we are prepared to be in this area at this time, and her faith is amazing, to come all the way down without knowing anything. Truly amazing!

This week I just reflected about family. Between the love that Pedro´s wife has for Pedro and helping him...to this mom helping her son. So glad I'm born into an awesome family. And I just reflected what I want my family to be like in the future. It's amazing to have the opportunity to see so many families and people and well, it kinda rubs off of ya. It's hard to explain. I'm sure dad knows what I'm talking about.

But holy cow, its truly been an amazing week! Hard, but it went by so fast. I can't believe I've been out here for 4 months almost. The time is going by so fast. I still feel SO new. crazy!!! It's been so busy! Oh tell Ma that I got her letter! I absolutely loved it :)

Well, my time is running out! we are going to go downtown, since Elder Schmutz is leaving soon, he wants to get some Italian suits for cheap out here and get some stuff before he leaves. haha plus we have to do laundry. By the way dad...how is the z coming along?

With much love

Elder Firl!

Some Pictures!

This was Jake's companion Elder Lembranzi with Gustavo and his dad. His dad baptized him.

This picture is the Wellington Family.

The Wellington Family again. Jake baptized the littlest one...the one behind Jake.

"Worked our butts off like no other..."

Holy smokes Alex must of been really sick! Hopefully he gets better soon. No worries, I had several bad races. Tell Alex not to sweat it. haha

I CANT BELIEVE THAT YOU GOT AN I PHONE!!!!!! Ugh, I'm so jealous. haha not really. It's all good. I absolutely love it here :) The food is like heaven, let me tell ya. The people are friendly and I just love the culture. It totally beats the phone withdrawals. haha I call dibs on the iphone when I get home :)

Yes, the computer I use at times has a usb port. The only problem it that it's broken. You have to hold it just in the right place and I tried that last time, and well that just messed up my email. Were not allowed to use those websites and programs, only myldsmail and those websites. haha entendeu?

Well I don't really see any animals walking in the street. It's kind of a city. And when we walk into the jungle we don't see any animals, just fireflies. haha sorry to disappoint.

Well I'm sure you are just dying to know who my companion is. Well his name is Elder Schmutz. haha and yes he is American. But let me tell ya, he is the man! I have been blessed with good companions. Elder Schmutz and I have been working so hard. He is from Orem, Utah, and his parents are serving as Mission Presidents in the Philippines. Cool right? lets see... Well he only has 5 weeks left now until he goes home. Crazy! haha and the best part is that he is not trunky, meaning, he doesn't think about going home. He is a really hard worker and obeys with exactness.

And well because of our exactness, we have been blessed like no other. I was really scared because I didn't know the area and well we didn't have a ton of people to teach. Ah but let me tell ya. We have worked our butts off like no other. We have found new people to teach. We found a familia do Luciano, we found Renato, and well we found the familia da rosangela. And well, that one was a miracle. Let me tell why.

While we were planning, Elder Schmutz goes, so my goal is to get 10 people invited for baptism. I was like... are you freakin crazy. We only have 1 right now. So I kinda doubted that we would be able to reach our goal. We have prayed like crazy to find elects (people who are prepared to make a change and want to be baptized). We found Renato and the familia do Luciano (him, his wife, and is baby). But we knew on Saturday, when we started our fast, that we need to find a family and it's gonna take a miracle. We have never had 10 people invited for baptism at one time. It's so hard to get people, it's not a huge baptizing mission. Anyways, we fasted. And well, we were guided to this area that I have never seen. At the top of this giant set of stairs. It's way hidden. anyways, knocked doors there and what not. Anyways, at one door all these kids came to the door, we said we would stop by later when their parents were around. Stopped by later that day, we were joking around that we would invite that whole family before with all those kids. Anyways, came back and taught the first lesson. Holy cow, she was crying as I was bearing testimony. And after we paused. Elder Schmutz asked, how do you feel right now? She said it was an incredible feeling. Nothing like she has felt at any other church or place. We explained that was the spirit and she could always have this feeling or have it more often. We invited her, and her 4 children for baptism, November 5. Holy cow, we walked out and were amazed. Like... did that just really happen. Clearly, a miracle. I can't describe the happiness I felt after that lesson.

With struggles with the language, this is what makes the mission so amazing. When you know you are being watched over and are making a difference. No other thing can replace it... for now. so amazing! So far this is the highlight of the mission. Braden Blackford, get ready for the best mission out there and for the best 2 years, or anyone that's preparing to leave or thinking about going. It's the hardest thing ever, but the best. It's hard to explain.

Anyways, the Wellington family is good. We're going to try and get them to talk about marriage this week and try and also invite them. Because they are ready, haha they are just stalling on the marriage. She wants to get married right now, Mr. Wellington... not so much. haha

As for Sandra, well... she drank this week. that was a heart breaker. But! We got her daughter invited and ready for baptism! Also in November, the week after Rosangela and her family. We have been teaching Mayara for awhile. So that was awesome! She is still a little shaky, but we will help her along the way :) She is ready, she just needs to take that leap of faith.

As you can tell, its been a crazy week! I think my Portuguese is not increasing as fast. hahaa Elder Schmutz and I speak a little English in the casa(apartment or home). It's all good though, I'm learning to be patient with this language thing. I'm learning slowly, but I'm learning, its a lot harder than I thought, but what keeps me going is that, what I do know is making a difference. The spirit converts, not what you say. for sure!

Well, this week we are going to the temple. So today we are only allowed to email and then it's a normal day. I'm so excited to go. The whole session with be in Portuguese. haha that's gonna be tough. I'll probably understand a third of it, but its all good! I'm still excited :)

Anyways, I hope all is well!!! Tell Ma Wood I'll try to send her a letter this week. These past couple weeks have been NUTS!!! With transfers and well, this week working our butts off, its been nuts. I love you all and hope things are going well in the states! Things are well here :)

Oh, thanks for the updates with Elder Vaughan. I love them! haha crazy to think he has been out for 10 months and that I'm coming on 4. haha I still feel freaking new! That's probably because of the language and not being able to understand. haha its all good though. The time passes so quick the harder you work. Anyways, love you guys and I cant wait to hear from you next week!

Com amor, de todo de meu coração

Elder Firl

Last week with Elder Lembrazi...

Sorry about the email last week. It messed up. haha looks like I won't be attaching pictures again. freak! But it sounds like this week was a good one! Alex is rocking it in XC (Cross Country)!! Crazy stuff. haha sounds like he is just beating me at everything I do. haha sounds like you already sent a package. Dang it! haha sucks that my email didn't send like week. haha oh well.

Well about this week! This week was nuts. So let me start with exchanges. haha I had my first exchange in my area with the LZ (Zone Leader). haha that was pretty great. We kinda got lost. One of the appointments was hilarious. We had an appointment with a singer. So we shared a little message with her and what not, we checked in with her to see how she was doing and after, she was like. I'm going to sing to you guys. The other Elder was also American. So anyways, she changed and sang Shannia Twain. hahaha oh I tried so hard not to laugh. idk which song it was, but it was a romantic song. And she was looking at me the entire time. Pretty much singing it to me. haha so funny because her accent was hilarious. She can sing really good, well the notes anyways. After we shook and and what not. She shook my hand with... emotion? haha someone asked if there are any animals here. haha yes. Snakes. This is what we could call a snake. hahaha so funny and creepy!!! I though you guys would like that story.

And well General Conference. haha yes it was in Portuguese. I could understand the main points, but its just not the same in Portuguese. haha and well. We watched all the secessions for the most part. In the last session, it was pouring down rain. and well... the power went out in the last session, right when President Monson. So then we went outside, and well went to a members house for FHE(Family Home Evening) in another area with the district. The walk was LONG! And it was pouring rain. haha one of the Americans was like, man its raining so hard, I missed President Monson speak, and I'm soaking wet. haha I told him. You are getting extra bonus points. Your wife is going to be SO hot since were missing conference and are walking in the rain. haha it was pretty funny, we were all busting up.

Now for the drama in Itapecerica. Well...last night, my companion got a call for transfers. Looks like I will have a new companion tomorrow. Elder Lembrazi was supposed to stay for another 6 weeks. But looks like the Mission President wanted to change things. haha idk who the new companion is. But I've heard he is awesome and was the LZ(Zone Leader) for almost a year. He is American, kinda a bummer, because I've been picking up on the Portuguese better with a Brazilian. But that's ok :) Ill let you guys know next week what goes down. haha I'm kinda sad Elder Lembrazi, meu pai is leaving. Freak, and I still don't know the area. haha so it shall be interesting. haha

Oh I forgot. Another funny story, we were eating at a members house and she was like...look out the window in the jungle. I looked. And there was this guy running wicked fast. haha I was like. "whats going on?" She goes, a drug deal. They walk into the jungle and always run out. hahah I watched even longer. haha so many people were walking in and running out. haha it was pretty funny, because I guess there are a lot of helicopters in the area that watch it. Pretty crazy out here. I thought I would put some good stories. I did a pretty spiritual letter last week. and well that's sent this week. haha I thought I would give it some balance.
To answer some questions from some letters I've gotten. Yes I hear American music all the time! It's nuts. haha a lot of people love to talk about music and what not with me. haha its funny because they pronounce them way different. And about the money. haha my companion isn't very good with money. I manage my money well. I make sure we have money to get around on the onibus. haha that's what we spend most of our money on if that's what you guys were wondering. No worries. I'm being well fed! I'm not hungry. I eat a lot of bread, beans and rice, and well desserts. haha we are well fed here. so no worries. My place is tiny! its right by the chapel. Ill try to print off some pictures. We walk a fair bit in our area. We have a ton of hills. It's nuts! They are so steep! Its kinda dangerous here if your not careful. haha no worries, I am careful. Last week the sisters got robbed. crazy! they are okay. no worries. haha I'm sure you just wanted to hear that mom. Well... I'm trying to think of questions I've gotten. That' all what I can think of for now.

But, I love the work here. I can believe the time is just flying. haha its October!! I thought it was still September. freak! Seriously, I am learning so much from the mission. Its the hardest thing I have ever done. But oh its the most rewarding! There is a lot of work, but there is a lot of fun too! The way it works is you work hard and you play hard. Because if you don't work hard, you just think... freak what can i do better. Holy cow. You truly see miracles happen everyday! I love it, and I love seeing the difference people make in their lives. There is a lot of disappointment here. But the moments when someone accepts counters those disappointing moments with the language and investigators. The mission is a test of faith I feel. I grow and others grow too, based on my faith. its amazing! Anyways, I love you all and I love getting your letters. Tomorrow is gonna be crazy with the transfer. Love ya all!!! The work is progressing here in Brazil!

Com amor,

Elder Firl

Best choice I ever made!

My letter didn't send. I'll resend it. I tried attaching pics and it messed it up. sorry. haha

Oh it sounds like it was a great week!!! Oh man I loved Seaside!!! It's always a blast going there. It's a good thing they didn't have a dance. Those dances were always super dirty, like all the school dances for the most part.

To answer your questions. Yes we have a microwave. I don't really use it. Normally I just get some bread with some butter since its cheap. No worries about the money. I am actually doing really well.haha and food wise I'm doing great! haha idk if its from the food or stress, but I'm gaining weight slowly.haha and no. We don't really cook, only on p-day. haha

I actually send all my emails at the lan house. I have to pay to use it. It's a few blocks away from us. The computers are really good here, like the space bar sucks on this one. haha An English BOM would be great!!!

None of the letters are opened up when I get them. No I'm still taking pics with my first card.haha idk if I will send it when its full. It's a little sketchy.

haha rapaz sorry.its a kid.about Alex's age or younger. haha

I don't know if I can remember all the names in the Wellington family. Victor, Wendle, Venicious, e.... I cant remember the last one, but it starts with a w.

Sandra is great! We still don't have a date. Sometime in November though.

Oh Jose. so this week we were supposed to have his baptism. We had a lot of issues with him. About BOM(book of Mormon) and JS(Joseph Smith). But those are cleared up. He passed the baptism interview. But he wants to wait. haha ugh, heart breaker. He said he needs a few more answers. We have answered a lot of his doubts. We will keep working with him. He is progressing which is excellent!

So as for this week. We visited Jose everyday. haha had the drama with him and what not all week. haha crazy! So that took up a lot of time. We found a lot of new people to teach. Nothing too serious yet. But I'll keep you posted when things do. haha crazy how quick the week went. We really got a lot done with Jose. We followed up with the Wellingtons and they were confirmed yesterday. That was sweet. We will work on the parents.

As for my Christmas list. In order of importance.haha 1. Individual cases for my BOM and bible. same size. They are little zip up cases. they are easier to use. 2.Ties. Bright colors,light blue etc. or paisley. haha 3. page markers, the stickers with different colors, the tap looking things. 4. AAA batteries,they are expensive here. 5. brownie mix, candy snacks etc. haha I know its quite the list.

I love hearing from you guys. I posted pics of my companion and the Wellington family. Hopefully they attached :) I love this family to death. I baptized the littlest one, who is behind me. haha well, as for this week I have ran out of things to say. But I love this country and people. I'm so happy I get to be here and teach. I have learned so much. Humility. haha the language is tough. Everyone says I'm good for having a month here. But I want to learn more. I want to teach these people. The spirit has helped so much. It's amazing. You don't have to know the language perfect to change hearts. But its nice to know what people are saying to help them according to their needs. I know this church is true. I can see the changes it is making. I have been so blessed to be out here. Being on the mission has been one of the best choices I have made. Besides coming to earth.haha

Anyways, my time is up. I love you all!

com amor,

Elder Firl

No picture attachments came through...

$40 in an envelope just showed up!

Holy cow! This week was a good one! Lots of stuff happened this week. so where to start. Lets start with the Wellington family. So we baptized the kids in the wellington family! they have 4 kids. Wendel, the youngest wanted me to baptize him. I felt it a real honor to baptize him. So we did that Saturday. After we had some victory pizza. We will still work on the ´parents to get married so they can be baptized also. So, this week was tough. We had a really hard time finding people and a lot of our appointments fell. So that kinda sucked. We were working our butts off too. We didn't understand. We were doing all we could do. So, there is an ongoing investigator named Sandra. And we taught her everything and what not. She is going to be baptized. I know this church is true. She marked a date for herself and everything. talk about a miracle. But that's not all. Jose was also a tough one. He realized this week that the BOM is true and that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. We marked him for a baptism too. He will get baptized the 24 of Oct. Crazy how much the Lord has blessed us.

Ah but there is more. This week, we had to go to the mission home. It was the last day before we got money into our account. Well, we were broke. We had no money to take a bus to the mission home. And the banks aren't open in the morning to take out money. So, we were just like... well idk what to do. We went to work and had faith it would all work out. When we arrived home that night, there was an envelope on our door. It had 40 dollars in it. We have no idea who it was from or how it got there because there is a gate that's locked. Anyways, it was just enough money to pay for breakfast, lunch, and pay for the bus fee for both Elder Lembranzi and I. Talk about a miracle. Such a testimony builder! The Lord loves his missionaries. Also, I received the package from Ma Kayla and Aubrey and Yours Mom. Which is kinda crazy because a package takes at least a month to get here, or longer. So I was surprised I got both. Holy cow I was excited! Between the packages, I had everything I needed. I was so happy! I loved everything. I got it all! Nothing was touched. I passed out the stickers to the kids and they love it :) I loved the candy. haha it's already gone. Thanks everybody for the support :)


In the next package I would love snacks, a tie, and shampoo :) and if I think of anything else I'll let you know.

Well Camila is done. haha we cant get a hold of her. We have tried everything. I think she is avoiding us haha. And well we don't have many families to teach. We are having a really hard time finding new people to teach. But, I know we will find someone!

I haven't had to speak yet. Thank goodness!

Well p-day I nap, email, write letters and do laundry. haha its not that adventurous. haha

Well about those pictures. I have some taken on my camera. But I don't have a computer with a usb connection. sooo... you will have to wait. haha but I have a new nickname. I am called freewilly and elder fio. haha fio is like a string. haha its funny because nobody can say my name. haha so I make fun of them for saying my name, and well the little kids make fun of my Portuguese, so its all good. I love the work here! haha as you can tell I'm fitting in pretty well. haha I just wish I knew more Portuguese. haha

Sounds like things are going well at home :)

Holy cow it was an excellent week! I love being here! Such a testimony building week that's for sure. the language is still tough. But I got to see elder Acosta again and my buddies from the CTM. haha that was pretty great. They said I have improved a lot, which was nice. haha eu tenho um longo caminho pela frente. mas, eu sei que eu vou aprender esta idioma. Com tempo. mas, eu preciso ir. eu amo vocês!

com amor,

Elder Firl

Glass Tequila bottle thrown...

A letter written to Kayla Pickett...

Jake asked me to share this story with you.

“So, remember that picture of the big city outside my window? Oh yeah, we went through there. Haha and when I say big city, I mean this place was crazy. I’ve never been to NYC before, but it’s the only thing I can compare it to. SO many people, the buildings are giant! The air is terrible and well, it smells like smoke. So anyways, we had this one street we could be on, the busiest street of them all around here. My instructor told us it is the wall street of Sao Paulo. And well, its nuts! The streets are HUGE. Anyways, so when driving over, I got super nervous, I was worried about people not understanding and well, just nobody wanting to listen. Satan’s thoughts were getting in my head. So when we arrived, I was in awe. Elder Acosta was like a deer in headlights, and I was like…uh, where to start?

Walking down the street, we were trying to find someone to talk to. Haha a little nerve wracking. Finally I told myself, lets talk to that guy sitting down. So we did. I introduced myself and all that good stuff. Haha turns out the guy knew English and was a pastor. Haha oh joy. Let me tell you, we got shut down! Haha I got a good laugh, told Acosta that it couldn’t be any worse than that.
So the next guy we talked to was black and was called Miguel, he too spoke English. Haha we were busting up. We couldn’t believe we got two English contacts in a row. Except this guy had an English accent, he was from Capetown, South Africa. So that was legit. He was a really strong Catholic. In face he had his bible on him. So we showed him a scripture about other sheep, John 10:16. It was good. We were bummed that we didn’t have any English BOMs. But its ok. We talked to him for 20 minutes about Africa, rugby, and the gospel.

But then later we talked to a guy with a heart problem, sitting there to get money. Told him this book will help his life. He was very interested and thanked us so much! His name was Joao. So humbling, it was hard to understand him, but so awesome he had nothing and was loving.

One of my favorite contacts was Matthew. He had a cig, long hair, stunna shades, and coffee…I think. But he also spoke English, way cool. He was way interesting. Just sitting there on that curb. But anyways, he didn’t believe in God, but in a higher power. We made him think. We taught the whole first lesson. Very knowledgeable about the bible and Christ’s life. We talked to him for 25 minutes. Super good! I knew he felt the spirit and we asked the right questions. So awesome! Never gonna forget that, I judged him too quick, but I know something clicked in him. He accepted the BOM and promised he would read. So awesome we are teaching real people!

Haha so the others were good experiences, but these were the ones that stood out. Ones I want to remember. We passed out 5 BOMs. All seemed way interested….well except the last. But that’s an interesting story. Haha so here goes. So with 35 minutes left, this bum came up to us. He said, “ I want a Book of Mormon.” But he slurred all his words. He was totally drunk. You could smell it from a mile away. This guy was a bum. Trashed clothing, no shoes, super dirty, his eye (right eye) was messed up, super gross, losing teeth, walked funny. Haha got the description? Haha oh [and] he was black. But anyways, he came up to us wanting a BOM. I wasn’t sure if I should give him one because its sacred. I told him that, and he said like he had a desire and all that stuff. I still wasn’t so sure, but then a thought came to mind, “yeah he is drunk and doesn’t know what he is doing, and I don’t know what he will do with the book, but he is a son of God, and deserves a chance to hear the word of God.” So I gave it to him and just testified my heart out to him, knowing I’m not the one to judge him and that I am doing my part, and that I should love this guy. So yeah, he took the book and the other bums were sitting…drinking. And well one got mad because his bottle was empty and he threw the glass tequila bottle right next to us. Haha glass was everywhere! I’m surprised none of it hit us. Acosta looked like he was going to pee his pants! He didn’t like the…weirdos and creepy people. Haha I don’t mind. But yeah, I just said “haha we should probably go.” So we did. Rushing to get back to go meet up with the others.

So with these experiences, I was surprised how friendly the people were, especially in a scene like NYC, people who don’t want to talk or be bothered, ya know? But those who didn’t want to talk were so polite! Almost everyone was willing to talk. It was so neat! I loved it. But I loved the feeling of getting a taste of the campo. I’m not as nervous, and am super excited =] I know this is the mission Heavenly Father wanted me in. Without doubt. Ah I love this place. Crazy place, but so awesome, I wish I could describe it better. Its kinda like the states in Paulista, all different types of people. Same hearts and all, they are like you and me, searching for happiness. Incredible, and well I am here to give it to them as best as I can."
Elder Firl

First Baptism!

I would have to say that this week was crazy too!!!

Well about Camila, We haven't gotten a hold of her. But we are going to keep trying! As for the Wellington Family. They are making progress! The kids will have their baptism this week! Crazy! Yes we have other investigators, we have Jose. We have been teaching him for a long time. He is trying to find if Joseph Smith is a true prophet, so we are helping him out with that. This last week we had a baptism! It was Gustavo. He is a rapaz. Most of his family are members. The plan for the Wellington family is to visit them everyday to make sure they are doing alright. I will lets ya all know next week how it goes :)

Oh the weather. Haha its just like the northwest except there is more sun. Its really funny how similar the weather is here.

And as for the laundry. haha I wish I had a maid. We have to do our laundry by hand. Yes pulling out the scrubby brush and using a sink, and then let it soak. Then after we have to since out the soap, after letting it soak. Then we hang it. haha yup, hang dry. Its a lot of work. haha

As for the packages. I haven't gotten anything yet. But I'm stopping by the mission office quinta feira. So I will know then. The things I miss from Washington, well I miss a real shower and American ice cream. haha but the food here is amazing. I love it here! The juices they make are amazing. Holy cow and the pizza. The Brazilians know how to make pizza. I had the best pizza in my life. We had a Tuscany pizza. haha it was amazing. It had chocolate in the crust. At first I thought it would be gross. But its so good!!! Holy cow. idk how to describe it.

Yeah our ward mission leader works with us quite a bit. We have a ward. But its pretty small compared to a normal ward. We have a decent church building here. Its pretty small, but its better than nothing.

In fact this week, we helped put together a talent show. Let me tell ya it was pretty epic. We got a ton of references and contacts from the talent show. haha so we have a lot of work to do. We have been having problems finding new people. But anyways the show de talentos. The ward made me do a talent. haha well I ended up dancing because that's the only thing I can do. haha oh man, they loved it! Everyone came up afterward and was just amazed. I just did the worm, moonwalk, that good stuff. haha it was funny. All the kids came up and wanted to talk. haha I just wish I knew exactly what they were saying. haha anyways it was excellent! I got a good laugh out of it!

As for a package for Christmas. haha hmmm American candy would be nice. Some star bursts and what not. Just snacks and hygiene stuff would be excellent, toothpaste, oh some new tooth brush heads. I'll let you know if I think of anything else. stickers and what now. Anyways, it was a crazy week. I just figured out how to use The pictures I think. So I'll try next week to post some pictures. Hopefully that computer will have the ability to do it. haha

Anyways, I love hearing from ya all! Until next week :) tudo bem, e eu amo voces!

Love Elder Firl