¡Gracias a todos ustedes!

Subject: ¡Gracias a todos ustedes!
Date: Mon, 28 Dec 2009 14:22:10 +0000 Hey yall!

Yeah I feel bad that things didn’t work out as I hoped but sometimes these things happen and its out of our control no matter how good our intentions are. I wish Wally, Jenn, and Claire a Merry Christmas and a new year full of blessings as a result of good decisions, diligence, and an attitude that’s always positive! It was a great experience for me to talk a little bit with Brian, Brandon, Annette, James, and Dad and you, Mike and Sunny. I enjoyed talking to you as well. I wish we had a little more time but this time I have to be a good example as a senior companion and follow the hour rule. I understood all of you no worries. I know you love me and that’s what really matters and I hope you know that I love you all.

It’s disappointing you didn’t hear or see Justin on Christmas, but its good to hear that he is a little happier. I too hope Vic gets a job and grows up. I hope Vic accomplishes what it is that he wants. Don’t worry about the garments, it’s though that counts. As far as needs go I don’t need anything out of the norm just my normal vitamins and protein stuff and that you guys keep going to church, reading your scriptures, praying, and working the business and living the dream! I haven’t received the envelope you sent me yet but I will get it soon.

As far as I know I will be sent to Sacramento but don’t worry we will know when we need to know. That’s crazy! Elder Cook is almost done. That will be a great homecoming and he will be a great addition to the singles ward!

Give a holla at Camie and let her know I understand how things can get crazy at times. I too am experiencing the hectic life with changes left and right. A letter every now and then is cool but really I know she cares because she is one of the few of my friends that have written me. You know when they write they really are your friends even if its once.

Send a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year wish from Elder Morton to Tanya and the whole Mortimer-Zufelt family! ¡Próspero Año Nuevo!

Send a shout out to Rose for me. She rocks and I hope she had a very Merry Christmas and has an even better new year!

Send my love out to Jimmie, Futaba and Masai and Sayaka please because they are the best! I pray that everything works out well with her surgery and that the business stays strong and most of all so that they can enjoy a few chill moments in life as a family and as husband and wife! We have to converse with them when I get back because I really miss them and really all of my family and friends! When did Futaba send the letter because if I am not mistaken I received one a long time ago and it was nice? I hope the Wilson family had a great Christmas and a prosperous new year as well!

I am really enjoying myself here in El Perú. I learn something new every day and I truly feel as though the lord is molding me to be a better man than I could be without him. I truly know that God has a higher purpose for us than the "daily grind". He wants us to progress spiritually as well as temporally and as I told Annette if we are not progressing we are not doing what we have been sent here to do and most of all what we promised God our father we would do here. I pray that this New Year may be full of new and significant life goals with real intention to accomplish them. We can do it!

Love,
Elder Morton

Good Decisions make the difference...

Subject: Good Decisions make the difference...
Date: Mon, 21 Dec 2009 15:10:29 Hey yall!

So here's the plan. On Thursday I am going to call at 6:00-6:30 your time so we’re good there. On Christmas I will call at about noon if everything goes as I hope. Either way I will call Christmas so be ready!

I don’t know if my friends have received the chocolate balls you sent yet but when they tell me I will let you know. I’m sure I will receive the things you sent but I don’t know when. How cool. It’s small but I like blue lights. It’s good to hear that the boys are helping out this year. Send my love to the Rocklin 2nd and 6th please.

What's going on? I knew that was going to happen eventually. Really we can’t say we didn’t warn him. Now he is going to take it like a man! That’s life and we have to make educated decisions and if we don’t THAT'S what happens. The good news is that although life is crazy you guys are being blessed in many ways. I look forward to talking to the kids on Christmas. It will be nice to share the experiences we have had since May.

Funny story, we baptized a Down syndrome kid Saturday because he is an only child and his mom wanted to see him baptized. I was chosen to the dirty work of dunking him because I am stronger than my comp and the kid is a bit afraid of water. We had to do it three times before it was done correctly and the third time I had to go down with him by putting my chest in his face and forcing him under the water. It was hilarious! He thanked me for saving his life! He probably thought he was going to drown. I will send pictures later.

Really I feel, for the first time in a while just plain chill, working hard and helping this ward progress in every way I can. I have had a few companions who really challenged my patience and my humility and for that I am grateful because we are not put through trials we can’t overcome. We are here to progress and I feel as though my family and I are progressing although not everyone as I would like but little by little.

I am grateful for all the great decisions and faith you are showing in the lord. I know it’s because of that you are being blessed in a time that’s difficult in the states with the economy and all. I look forward to hearing from you all.

I love you all,

Elder Morton

Buon Natale y Feliz Navidad!

Subject: Buon Natale y Feliz Navidad!
Date: Mon, 14 Dec 2009 14:21

Hey yall!

Thanks for the garments and razors I appreciate it. Don’t worry these things happen every now and then. Thanks for the CD of church music because that’s all we can listen to. I appreciate the thought from Chris but I don’t know what CD he got me because it’ not Christmas yet! Thanks for the hair conditioner stuff once again! That’s cool about the commercials. Is the image getting better for Amway and Nutralite?

Yes I will be calling the 24th as my "Pre call" to tell you when I will be calling you on Christmas. I will call at night because I think were 1 or 2 hours ahead of you guys. I don’t know what time exactly yet.

The chocolate balls are for a couple in my ward who the husband served a mission in the Northern part of Perú and had a companion from the states. He tried this chocolate ball for Christmas as LOVES it! He asked me if I could have you send him and his wife one and I said I would ask. They are really cool people and I thought it couldn’t hurt to ask. Christmas is next week how crazy is that?

Speaking of Alberto how are the Minguzzi’s? Have you heard anything from them lately? Well the answer is yes and that’s cool! I read the letter from Vito and it sounds like everyone is doing their thing and overall pretty happy. I am happy to hear that they are doing well. Send them my best wishes please. Its good to hear that the grandma is still sticking in there, but when is Giorgio going to give Nadia and Vito grand kids and when is Alberto going to get hitched?! It seems as though June 2010 will be a big month worldwide!

Really I am enjoying this change more than ever. We are doing really good things in our area and the members are progressively happier with the missionaries. Almost 6 months to go and I am home, how fast the time is flying by. I still see a difference in the man I was compared to just 6 months ago and at this rate I will be a lot different in 6 more months when I get home. I have a different work ethic and desire to share the gospel with my family, not force my religion on them but share what I have learned in these two years with them, and let them make the decision on their own.

I am really pumped to talk to the family this Christmas. It will be a great experience for all of us I am sure. I love you all and hope that all my friends and family know that. From Rocklin and Auburn, CA, to South San Francisco, all the way to Italy and back I send my love to all and want to hear how everyone is doing for the holidays.

Love,
Elder Morton

Feliz Navidad!

Subject: Feliz Navidad!
Date: Mon, 7 Dec 2009 14:47

Hey yall!

A quick notice I received the Christmas box from you guys and the CD that Chris bought and they were AWESOME! I haven’t opened any of the gifts yet but thank you for the generosity because you sent A LOT! I hope it was in the budget! In response to one of your letters yes, I need 5 more pairs of garment tops and bottoms and more socks because there was a huge problem with the company that washes our clothes here in Lima and everyone lost a ton of clothes. If you could send some more razors that would be cool too.

So, Vic is trying to get into Sac Junior college that’s great!

Good for Annette. She finally passed her test and accomplished her goals and is happy.
Justin goes to boot camp. How crazy is that?! It sounds like something from a crazy dream that you can’t wake up from. I sure hope he has a good experience in the military and doesn’t pick up any bad habits.

That’s good to hear that Jackie is recovering well from her surgery and is happily married. Good to hear that James is overcoming his trials and is doing well. I am really glad that you and Dad are hanging in there and looking at the positive side of things. I didn’t know there were plans on going to Italy in 2012, but I LOVE the idea and I think that Dad will be beyond happy visiting Italy, because its THE BOMB!

In regards to me, I am really happy with how things are going here in Lima. We are finding really great, new people to teach the gospel to and I feel truly blessed because my comp is a really great kid that was raised in the church. I truly believe we will make a big difference in the ward and branch that we have. I feel truly blessed to be where I am at this point in my mission. God loves us and wants to bless us, we just have to be obedient and act in faith according to the whisperings of the spirit and choose the right! If we do that we will receive the blessings after the trial of our faith.

The holiday season for me is a reminder of how much God really loves us, so much so that he sent his only begotten son to sacrifice his life for us and make it possible to make it back to his presence. May we always remember how very blessed we are to have been born when and where we have and always thank God for what he has given us because there are people who have a lot less than we do.

I plan on doing things a whole lot differently when I get home. I really want to make anything possible for my children. I want them to have the opportunity to know diverse countries and people and most of all PERÚ! So, I will have to work hard and keep the focus but I am prepared to do whatever it takes so that my kids can be even better prepared for the mission life and the real life than I was, because its worth it. The family is so important and I have learned that in the mission. I knew before that the family was important but my vision was drastically limited compared to now and because of that I am grateful every day that I was blessed with the opportunity to serve as a missionary for these 2 years.

I look forward to talking to you all in a few weeks and I know it will be a great experience for all of us.

I Love you all,

Elder Morton

The holidays are here!

Subject: The holidays are here!
Date: Mon, 30 Nov 2009 20:50

Hey yall!

The holidays have many surprises to offer and usually they are good ones. I am happy to hear that Annette and you are getting along like a mother and daughter should. How crazy, Brandon is a junior! That’s what two years away from home does, we all grow 2 years older and yet we don’t see it happen!

Girls, we can’t live with them and we live without them. What is a man to do?! I doubt things with Justin will pan out as he hopes because what he feels isn’t love and that’s something I know from experience. The best thing he can do is enjoy her presence while it lasts because things will change a whole lot when he goes into the military. His life really won’t be his and he will grow up and want different things out of life. Honestly I think they should part ways while they still can be friends and really if through the course of his life he finds his way back to her that’s cool.
It sounds like June 2010 will be a memorable one for all of us just about! I am happy that Annette got her condo and that it’s a nice one. I am thrilled to hear that Brandon is chilling out, maybe he is growing up.

I haven’t received the envelope or my package but there probably saving it for Christmas if they have arrived. I too look forward to the Christmas call, to be able to talk to the family once again. I really hope that before I get home we can get the family going to church. It would be a huge blessing for them and it would help a lot in the thing we lack as a family and that is UNITY.

We need to stop holding grudges, being prideful, hard hearted and really breaks the false traditions of our family apart, and start anew. Life is short and the things of the world will pass but the family CAN be eternal! When I get home I will be able to talk more intelligently about the gospel and what living it really can do for us. I will not lecture or force my religion on anyone but I will share with them what I have learned during these two years because I have learned so much and yet there is so much more to learn. I have learned that were here not on vacation but to be tried so that we can progress. It’s not easy to admit that we are the problem when in reality usually we are. These past 2 changes have been really tough for me and the next one seems to be equal because I will be staying here in Lima until January. Sadly it doesn’t look like I will be going back to the jungle but it is what it is, God knows why I am here even if I don’t. If you could do me a favor and send one of those chocolate oranges that they have for the holidays. The ones when you tap it on the table it breaks into slices like an orange I would really appreciate it. Please send it to: Consuelo del Rosario Garcia Quiroz, Jr. Piedraluna, 2515 3ero PisoUrb. San Carlos San Juan de Lurigancho Lima, Perú.

Thanks mom you’re the bomb! I hope you are all well, sticking in there as I am persevering till the end. I hope you remember that your heavenly father loves you and wants the best for you. If you pray, go to church, read your scriptures daily, work hard, build the business and keep the Sabbath day holy you will be blessed in every way you are in need. My testimony of the church has grown immensely and with that I have more joy and security in life and I want that for my family as well. Keep on keepin on! Love you all!

Love,

Elder Morton

Estoy Muy bien!

Subject: Estoy Muuuy bien!
Date: Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:52

Hey yall!

Mom, Real fast, if you can please check out when we can renew my license. I think it is 6 months before I return or something like that. If you are able please call DMV that would be great!

Wow you met a Limeña that’s cool. If she was sent to the United States and married an American boy her parents have money. If you can ask her what part of Lima she is from that would be cool. That’s the thing about Perú, they think their food is the best in the world and if you say otherwise you are wrong (According to them). LOL. They are very proud of their food and think all we have in the U.S. is canned food and McDonalds. That’s all they talk about is FOOD!

Wow Rob A is doing his thing that’s cool. At least he is doing some things right. That’s nice what Jennifer did with the "2nd Mom" nick name. It’s good to keep up the physical therapy it works.

I was thinking of studying Spanish, Italian and going for my degree in international business but I will give physical therapy a thought. I was really interested in Sports Medicine at one point but not so much anymore. I don’t really want to be a glorified nurse, or a doctor to be honest, but I do want to help people in the career I choose.

The mission is going really well. I'm not only realizing my faults but correcting them with the help of the lord. I realized I have been really hard to deal with since I arrived in Tahuantinsuyo
but I am getting better. The mission is really flying by for me. I only have 7 months left, how crazy is that?! We are working hard and pumping up the members here because they are not too excited about missionary work so we are making a lot of ground there with our energy.

I have a lot of goals left to accomplish before I end the mission and it will require a lot of concentration, so that’s what I plan on doing, putting a lot of focus on what I need to help the area improve. I know if I do that my family and I will be blessed later on. I have more hope for my future now more than ever.

I know that God won’t leave us hanging if we do what he asks of us. If we follow the commandments’ and work hard we can accomplish anything. Keep doing everything possible to accomplish your dreams and don’t be afraid of big dreams. It just takes focus and putting things in their proper place. Keep "pounding the rock" with the Team INA business, reading your scriptures, praying and attending church every Sunday and things will work out fine. There will be trials but you will have the strength required to overcome and triumph whatever problem you might have. Be humble like Christ.

I love you all and pray only for your happiness. I pray that everything is going well with you ALL. Remember that this life is what we make of it!

Love,

Elder Morton

P.S. Annette,

Happy Birthday! I pray that everything is going well with you, Justin, & Brandon. Congrats on getting your Condo. That is awesome you have your own place. Remember that this life is what we make of it! I have a lot of goals left to accomplish before I end the mission and it will require a lot of concentration, so that’s what I plan on doing, putting a lot of focus on what I need to help the area improve. I know if I do, our family will be blessed later on. I have more hope for my future now more than ever. I know that God won’t leave us hanging if we do what he asks of us and if we work hard we can accomplish ANYTHING. Keep doing everything possible to accomplish your dreams and don’t be afraid of BIG DREAMS.

I love you and pray only for your happiness.

Love, Rob

Elder Morton

Miracles can happen!

Subject: Miracles can happen!
Date: Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:57:55

Hey yall!

Josh Euer is your home teacher?! I know him! He was my home teaching companion in the singles ward before he got married! He is the bomb! WOW he has a kid now? That’s really cool! Please say hi and congratulations for me. Some of the kids remembered your birthday that’s really nice to hear.

Wow that’s great to hear that Annette and Brandon took the initiative and did the right thing. Everyone apologized and hopefully started with a clean slate and a pure heart. Annette stopped by with a cake and you didn’t eat it all gone, that’s good news!

Justin stopped studying in May? That’s disappointing because that’s really the only way he would be able to have a better future for him and his family (If he ever has one). Dating the underage girlfriend is equally unadvisable. Brian will be down to see his kids for Thanksgiving that's cool.

I sure pray that things do work out for the best with the family in general and we can forget the stupid small things and focus on the things that really matter. If we do that we can progress a whole lot faster in every way.

Justin is going into the military in March. Air Force would be a better option but its his life and he has to make these kind of decisions on his own its part of growing up.

Sounds like Brandon is happier living a somewhat normal life, that’s great!

James has a new girl friend, good deal. James is doing something else for Matt? I pray that it pans out well for him and Matt.

Mom keep up the physical therapy it really works!

Yes I too am pumped to talk to the family on Christmas! It will be my last Christmas in Perú as a missionary! Again I really am learning patience. My comp is studying to be a doctor and he thinks is smarter than EVERYONE. He has to "win" in our conversations so instead of having deep conversations with him I shut my mouth until I have to teach an investigator or do contacts most of the time. Otherwise, I just agree with him regardless of what he says. I absolutely have to humble myself all day, every day so that we can have success and get along as companions, so I am maturing as a person a whole lot right now. I truly believe that every companion we have is for a specific reason, so that we can improve in an area that we are weak spiritually or personally. I have been praying a lot more specifically these days and really I am receiving a lot of strength and well, it seems as though you guys are receiving some blessings as well. Every day I am here in Perú I realize that the mission really prepares us for life in the real world if we really give it our all until the very end. It’s crazy to think of how I was before and how really ungrateful I was. I was really prideful and that stopped me from doing so much more with my life than I could have if I was humble and had more trust in the lord. I say that now because as children of God I realize that we truly are capable of great things, even greater than we can imagine. The only thing is that we need to be more humble and put our trust in the lord and if we do that we are truly unlimited in what we can do.

One thing I know is that I will do things a whole lot different when I get home! I’m not saying I was bad but I can do a whole lot more with the knowledge and testimony that I have now of our purpose in life than before, that is if I put to use the things I have learned here to use in my life there in California. You too can do the same and if you do miracles can and will happen! I love you all and pray for you all. Please send my love to all of the family and loved ones!

Love,

Elder Morton

I am good and my week went well!

Subject: I am good and my week went well!
Date: Mon, 9 Nov 2009 14:01

Hey yall!

Wow 18 already! That's great you had a good time at Danielle's birthday and everyone was nice. What’s this world coming to?! It goes to show that ANYONE can change for the better! That’s cool that Mike will come by for your Birthday and by the way although its early.
...HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!

The kids are bringing their girlfriends for Thanksgiving Dinner? That’s cool; at least it won’t be a lonely Thanksgiving!

Weight Watchers is not worth the money in my opinion because you don’t learn how to lose weight in the real world using normal food. It’s an expense that you don’t need right now.

I don’t care what the place looks like when I get home I only care that you guys are good in spirit and in health.

I really am learning that God blesses us according to our obedience to his commandments. If we are lacking in blessings we need to look at what we are and are not doing and if we are honest with ourselves and we are lacking in certain blessings its because were not following a commandment exactly as we should, in other words were "Half assing it" somewhere. All the blessings we can receive start with having faith or in our minds then it travels to our heart and that feeling results in an action. If we want something better we have to do something better.

I know what type of life you want and in order to get it you can't do the same old thing. Now the thing we must always remember is that were here not on vacation but to be tried. We will always have trials and problems but the difference is what we do with these experiences; do we learn from them and become stronger or do we doubt and think "Poor me my life is hard?"

It's like the story my companion shared in sacrament meeting yesterday: There was a dog lost in the forest looking for shelter. He was far from home and came across a huge, abandoned house. He found a door and dug his way into the house and found that in this house there were other lost dogs just like him. He was happy that now he wasn’t lonely anymore and got so excited wagging his tail and started to play with the other lost dogs they got excited just like him and started playing with him wagging their tails too. He spent the night in the house and the nest day left satisfied and said to him “Wow this house is a great place I will come back some day. Now there was another lost dog that was annoyed and really upset because he was lost. This dog found the same house and entered and found other lost dogs like him and got even more annoyed until the point he was growling and they growled back be barked at them with anger and they responded with the same anger he wrestled with them and fought and they did the same. He spent the night there and left dissatisfied and left the house thinking to himself¨" I will never come back to this house again" As he left he saw a sign above the house that said " The great house of mirrors" Think about that and apply it. I love you Mom, Dad and all!

Love,

Elder Morton

Estoy muy bien!

Subject: Estoy muy bien!
Date: Mon, 2 Nov 2009 13:57:40

Hey yall!

Thanks Mom for always thinking of me and doing all you can to make the mission a little bit easier. I am sure the box will be awesome for my companion and me. And without a doubt it will make Christmas a little more like home. I am good on vitamins and shoes and I have about a month or two of vitamins that I haven’t used yet so that’s good and my shoes are fine. I could use some inserts because one of my dress shoes I have walked the padding away, but I can buy those here.

Yes Saturday was Halloween and there was a strike against Halloween in my area by some other church and it was hilarious! People in masks with signs that say "No al Haloween".....they can't even spell right what they are picketing!

That’s good to hear that James is softening up a bit and Chris is helping out still. Don’t worry physical therapy is like that but as you said it will get progressively better. Wow you tore your Achilles tendon and the doctor thought it was gout? No wonder you had so many problems, that’s a whole lot more serious than gout!

The changes were the 21st of October and he was scheduled to stay with me here in Lima but there was an emergency change and he went to another part of Lima and I received another companion which is a really chill guy.

In regards to what is going on with your older children. It's not your loss it’s theirs. I don’t know what their deal is, there is no excuse for the way they are treating you. I realized yesterday that stubborn is another word for prideful and that’s what it seems like, if they don’t change soon, they will die miserable, lonely, old people.

On a more positive note I am really enjoying the mission and how we can really redefine ourselves to be more like Christ. It’s funny because in the real world we do so many things and yet spiritually we don’t progress much and in the mission we basically do the same things every day and yet our spiritual progression can be huge if we choose to.

The mission is going by so fast its crazy. I realize more profoundly every day how much God really loves us. He has patience that’s second to none with us as his children. I mean really, he tells us over and over again what it is we need to do to receive blessings and be eternally happy and how many times do we disobey him because its hard or inconvenient and what does he do, he tells us again and when we do what it is we were told he blesses us in a big way. If only as brothers, sisters, and or parents, we could be more like him how different the world be It all starts with us. We don’t need to change the world because that’s impossible but we can change ourselves for the better and our world will change.

I pray that you all, in one way or another are finding more faith in Christ and more confidence and value in yourselves as children of God because you are capable literally of ANYTHING. I hope also that you are finding more courage to share your testimonies with others starting with our family because they need the gospel in their lives especially at this point in their lives. When I get home I want to do my family history and temple work for our ancestors starting with my uncles. I love you all and pray the best for you. Please send my love and let all our friends and family know that I think of them and am praying for them every day.

Love,

Elder Morton

Change is normal here in Perú!

Subject: Change is normal here in Perú!
Date: Mon, 26 Oct 2009 15:53:31

HEY YALL!

Brother and Sister Davis! How are they? Send them a shout for me please because they always have been great examples for me and I hope to be a lot like them when I get married.

Jordan is a great kid and when he gets his vision back he will go on his mission, because there is still time and he will never regret it.

My week has been great and my new companion is just what I needed TRANQUILO! His name is Elder Cahui. I feel the spirit again and that makes me happy. The new guy is from Perú but is really humble especially considering he is going to be a brain surgeon!

I am near the chapel where we have our change meetings on a hill....again. It’s a zone called Tahuantaysuyo.

When I get back I have plans on studying Spanish more thoroughly and once again Italian and really studying seriously this time so that I can speak three languages fluently.

Yep I lent my kit to a missionary for a moment and never got it back because he got sent to the jungle and who knows when I will see him again! So appreciate your sending me one if you can. THX!

Wow! That's great the Crombies were nice? So you and Mike are more trunky than I am....thats ok! I am really pumped to see Ryder for the first time. It will be really cool!

If I get the box before Christmas I will wait to open it until Christmas day as always. Yes next Christmas I will be home...Christmas 2010 here I come!

The photos were cool. I know all of them but one who is from another mission and they are all really great missionaries and great young men. Landon....how weird....he is a RETURN missionary now....how time flies by!

Hey Dad keep it real and I too cant wait to tell stories like all the other old people do!...lol! Really the mission is a special time. There is nothing like it, you really find yourself and are given the chance to redefine one-self which is an incredible thing. I can't lie I am looking forward to coming home and making right the things that I didn’t even know were wrong before and really taking full advantage of what life has to offer. I have a lot of work to do but this time I have the knowledge and help of God needed to accomplish my dreams and really make a positive impact in the lives of others. Don’t worry we are working hard and taking names!

I hope the blessings fall your way in abundance for at least these last 8 months because after that it’s up to ourselves once again to follow the commandments and do our part to receive the blessings that we want and need.

I love you all and look forward to speaking to you soon.....in less than two months! I pray all is well with you guys in Cali, Ohio and Italy spiritually and temporally and we should plan on taking a trip to Italy for the "Open doors" to the temple in Rome, Italy! It will be in 2011 or 2012 so if we are obedient and work hard we will be able to make a visit and show The Minguzzi´s what those Mormons are all about... Eeternal families! On that note send a shout out to all the families and friends.

I love you all,


Elder Morton

Patience is a virtue.....‏

Subject: Patience is a virtue.....‏
Sent: Mon 10/19/09 8:52 AM

Hey yall!

I received the box you sent with the Foot cream, lotion, Gold bond foot powder, protein powder, toothpaste, and all. Thank you, I really needed it!

That’s cool that you are going study the Book of Mormon with the ladies in Relief Society it will really help you resolve your problems and strengthen your faith in our savior as well as give you more hope in life. Yes Brother Shields rocks!

Yes, Cami told me she was going for her masters and I think that’s a great decision.

Get back to training as soon as you can even if it isn’t much but you need to get your body back in the habit of training so that you can heal faster.

Justin wants to play in the military band? That’s cool I hope he gets in and he is happy with the results of his decision. Justin is a good kid but he is confused and that’s sad because he doesn’t really believe in god or if he does he doubts if god loves him. He needs help. He needs direction. The only problem is he won’t listen to the missionaries. Contininue to be there for him.

Also keep the hope alive with the business. Never give up, just keep trucking along adding one person here, and another there and before you know it... PLATNUM! I really pray that you guys find it in you to persevere in all the good things that you are doing because it’s worth it!

Yes, I have a new comp and I got the news that I will be with him for another 6 weeks. There was an emergency change and my original comp Elder Zabala was replaced by Elder Davila and I am also in a different area here in Lima. That was three weeks ago and today we received the real changes that happen every 6 weeks and I am staying here with Elder Davila for another 6 weeks. Elder Davila is Peruvian and super prideful. It seems as though I need to learn more patience and humility or at least that’s how I am going to take this trial.

You've asked me a couple of times what I'd like in my Christmas box. If you want you can send me some cool ties and more socks like you sent me last time, the black ones with the section that has breathing holes in them at the top. Maybe another shoe shining kit like James bought for me because someone borrowed my shining kit and my brush is missing and now I can’t shine my shoes like before. Maybe some more Mormon Church music. But really it’s up to you because I don’t really need anything right now. The only thing I need is for you all to keep your noses clean, going to church every Sunday, doing the right things and good solid prayers couldn’t hurt.

That’s really all from Perú. I am just making the most out of the mission as one should do. As I've said before in my letters these two years really mold us for the future if we truly forget ourselves in the work. We learn how to communicate, how to plan for success and really how to accomplish goals by putting God first. Selfishness really inhibits us from having the success we desire! We learn that God has bigger plans for us and if we listen to the whisperings of the spirit we will do what it takes to obtain what it is that God wants for us which is true happiness.

These two years truly are the best two years of a young mans life and I am blessed to be a missionary. I am far from perfect but with time I can become more like Christ if I do his will and follow his commandments till the death. I am changing but it’s not me who is responsible it’s the lord. The only reason I have grown up is because it is necessary; because it’s what the lord wants and needs of me. The reason others you've spoke of haven’t grown as I have is because they are lost “in the world” not knowing which way is North and which is South. I feel for them. Satan is good at what he does and I pray that one day they will decide to change for the better so that they may truly understand how much the lord really loves them. The only way they can do that is listen to the missionaries, this I testify of without a doubt in my heart concerning its truth.
May we pray and follow the lord starting today.

I love you all,

Elder Morton

Crazy / Cool week!

Subject: Crazy / Cool week!
Date: Tue, 13 Oct 2009

Hey yall!

Sorry for the late notice but we went to the temple today and so we are doing our email thing today and not Monday. I didn’t know last week so I wasn’t able to pass the word in my previous email.

I am glad to hear Justin and Chris were happy to hear from me. I hope they do well in their studies, jobs and keep their noses clean. What Chris is doing is really good for him and his future if he sees it through the end. The same for Justin, if he focuses on the correct things he can do a whole lot of good with his talents. When it comes to the house do all you can and pray, that’s all that you can do. I hope everything works out with your car and we will see about the Volvo. No promises...LOL! I haven’t received the package yet but the farewell meeting is this Friday and usually we receive letters and packages after those and the change meetings which are next week. In one of those two meetings I should get when I have coming to me! I have no idea about Christmas because the companion I have now probably wont be with me then, but you never know. Heck I could spend Christmas in the Jungle this year, you just don’t know. Whatever you send we will both like I am sure of it! As of now I am good on clothes, shoes and socks so don’t worry about that.

Wow how crazy that you had a bad reaction to the flu shot! The good thing is that you are feeling better now. That’s interesting what happened with Sharlene. That goes to show you one better stay up on things so that you know when you are getting robbed. I hope you two find a way to build the business to a rate at which you can retire without any problems. If you concentrate a bit more on using every moment to its fullest you guys can do it! You two deserve a break before death.

I know what young men think at their age because I once, not too long ago, was there! That’s strange to say! All in all I am doing well here. Every day there is a new challenge but I love it! I have to think on my feet and that is one of the many abilities I lacked before the mission. I really feel like God is molding me here in the mission because in 25 years of doing things on my own I couldn’t do half the things I am doing now.

Honestly I feel like as long as we confide in the lord NOTHING is impossible! I speak Spanish and for me, that in itself is a miracle! I am so very grateful for these two years I have to forget myself and really search for what it is the lord wants me to do and not what it is that I want to do. In almost 16 months I have changed the way I think, and do things for the better and I can honestly say I am MORMON! I am a different man than I used to be and I feel as though it’s a good thing. I am not perfect by any means but at least I am improving in a big way. If it wasn’t for the mission I would never have become the man who I am...NEVER! It's because of that they stress the mission in the church so much but what Jo Mortimer said is true "You can be the best missionary there ever was or the worst, it depends on you"

I have noticed how much of a difference humility and patience make in who we are and how people perceive us. It makes an even bigger difference as missionaries I think. Those who really work hard for their love of the Lord and the people are the ones who will have that true conversion and be great men when they get home. Those who work for their pride and for recognition they will probably baptize a lot of people but they won't change for the better, but actually for the worst and when they get home things won't work out for them as they thought.
That’s some of the things I have learned in my time here in Perú. There is a whole lot more but that will have to wait till next time.

Send my love to everyone you can: Family, friends, extended family, loved ones and maybe not so loved ones!... LOL!

Keep the faith alive and remember that God loves you more than you know!

Love,

Elder Morton

Keepin it real in Perú!

Subject: Keepin it real in Perú!
Date: Mon, 5 Oct 2009 15:55:21

Hey yall!

I remembered about two days before Dads Birthday and well I couldn’t do a whole lot about it but HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD! AT least you had a good anniversary it seems.

Man it seems when one moves out 2-3 moves in and when you get rid of one you get another! Oh yeah the 3rd was Ryder’s Birthday huh.....HAPPY BIRTHDAY RYDER! That Ryder I’m sure he is a whole lot of fun. I’m glad you had some time with him.

Speaking of change, Friday I had to change areas because my ward joined with another ward and I was sent in an emergency change to another ward where my comp and I are both new to the area. The actual changes are the 20th of this month I think, but I doubt we will be going anywhere but you never know.

Wow it sounds like its time for a new car, maybe this time you can buy one that will last for more than 3 years.

Jill and Dean are planning to move to Utah? That’s good for them. Wow Danielle is going to graduate from high school when I get home?! It doesn’t seem like she is going to be 18 but I guess time flies by. That’s cool that the girls are figuring things out.

That’s a bit sad that Justin has decided to go into the military. He won’t pick up a whole lot of good habits. That is if he isn’t careful. If he watches it and sticks to the principles you have taught him he will be ok. If Justin goes into the military he will be their property for however long they have him under contract and if there is a war they can pull him into service. I personally prefer to be free to make my own life decisions, but if he is smart he can have a great life, not stable but paid for.

I have been humbled by this change and realized that in the mission there is only one constant....CHANGE! I look for the opportunity to learn from this new area and my new companion. I know that God has something special for me to learn and for that reason I am here. I can’t complain, I really like being a missionary at this point. I still have a lot to learn but at least I am, at this point capable of adjusting to the new challenges. It only took 26 years but finally I am becoming more like the man I wanted to be and thanks to the mission I will be able to become the man God really intended me to be when he sent me here.

I thank you Mom for always writing me and sending me packages. The Latinos don’t receive letters, emails hardly and packages even less. I am very blessed to be from the United States and especially to have been raised in the family in which I am in. I pray my kids will feel the same on their missions as I do, Grateful.

I love you all and pray for you always,

Elder Morton

Keep the faith yall!‏

Subject: Keep the faith yall!‏
Date: Mon 9/28/09 8:56 AM

Hey yall!

We are busting our butts here in Lima and by the grace of God we had another baptism this week! I know one thing is for sure and it is that God has something special planned for this part of Lima I am in. We are not baptising people here because we are talented or so convincing that the people feel the need to be baptized, but really we are tools in the hands of the Lord to realize his will. This is true because its absolutely a miracle that we are baptising people here. We are working hard and recieving blessings and I am loving the lessons we learn in the mission. I am maturing a lot and learning how really to be a man of my word and do things without fear. The mission is so important in the lives of young men, it really molds us and prepares us for the future.

Regarding your letter concerning my nephew Justin, if I were Justin I would focus on my education first because if he goes in the military he will be government property for however long he signs up. If I were him I would talk to Mike Morton first about the military before entering. I think he should take what the military says half seriously because the recruiting officers are salesmen for the military and they will tell him what he wants to hear for him to sign up. Its what he gets on paper that really matters because thats what they will honor. Justin's a grown man now and part of that is making hard decisions and doing it intelligently. Every big move we make will shape not only our lives but the lives of our family so we better choose wisely. I feel for Justin. I dont know what the deal is with his mother but that is why I find it so important to put our priorities in order while we still can. It's obviously too late for my older siblings but there is still hope for Justin and Brandon regarding college and the careers they choose. I pray that things start working out better for Justin. He is a smart, talented young man and really has unlimited potential. The sad thing is that we can't do anything about the decisions that our loved ones make, just accept them and do our best not to repeat the same mistakes ourselves.

Wow! Thats good to hear that you guys are still working the business keeping in touch with the Young Guns! I am sorry to hear my siblings are having financial probleems but it seems to be more the rule than the exception these days in the USA. Please send out a shout out to Wally & Jenn, Mike & Sunshine, they are all in my prayers. How's James, & Jeff, Vic doing? & The rest of the family? How's the new bride and her hubby? How are the Crombie's? & the crombie girls?

That's sad to hear Rob A hasnt really changed a whole lot. He is still all about himself. Sometimes things and or people don't change but we cant do anything about that; what we can do is make sure we are always improving our weak points day by day and confiding in the lord that he will help us along the way to accomplish our goals and dreams.

HAPPY 25TH! I sure hope you enjoy your special day! It's an accomplishment in which I pray to have the same blessing one day. You two are great examples of perserverance and hard work. I love you not only because you are my parents but because you are my friends in which I know I can count on. Keep on perservering, I know its worth it.

Send my love Rocklin 2nd & 6th and to the whole Team INA Crew, our family and friends that we know and love. They are always in my prayers and one day I know that they will be members of the true church too, maybe not today or tomorrow but one day.....Oh yes on a more positive note.....only 9 months left!!

Much Love,

Elder Morton
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
HOLLA AT CHRIS FOR ME!‏ :-)
Mon 9/28/09 9:09 AM

Hey Chris,

I had a few minutes and remembered that you wanted me to write you if I had some free time. How are you? I hope you are doing well. Keep up the good work in school and at home. Your education is so very important and not only getting it but what you do with is what really matters. You have great potential and if you listen to what the leaders of the Church of Jesus Christ say you will be blessed in many ways. If you really confide in the lord you can do literally ANYTHING your heart desires if it's just. If you want to be a millionare you can do it, but be the best man you can be. Dont be selfish with your blessing if anything always think "What more can I do?" "How can I bless the life of another who has less than I?" If you do all that and follow the commandments faithfully you will never lack. I love you and pray the best for you.

Keep the faith!

Much Love,

Elder Morton

Wow, were in business! ‏

Subject: Wow, were in business! ‏
Sent: Mon 9/21/09 8:50 AM

Hey yall!

First of all sorry about last week. I had a problem with the system, I spent an hour trying to send an email to no avail!

I got the box and that was really cool! It was the one from August. Dad wants you to retire and I know one way you can do it without starving and living in a box.... BUILD THE BUSINESS! I agree, going to the gym and building the business are two really positive things you can do for yourself, both physical, financial health and for your spiritual health keep going to church, reading your scriptures and praying often are all these things that will help extend your life and increase your happiness.

It seems like it has been a crazy year there in the good old US of A! I am glad at least you are all trucking along persevering. 25 years of marriage, that’s quite an accomplishment and as a couple you have really shown me what a "Team" is really about!

Wow Jordan and those people. I am never surprised when I hear the next stupid or crazy thing Justine does. It seems to me like the devil himself is filling her head with new and twisted ways to act like a retard, to make someone else miserable so that she feels better in some way about herself.

Send a shout out to Rose she rocks! I hope all is well with her and her family. Jeff Hall, I Remember him! How is he? That’s good to hear he is in a position to help you out again. First spiritually and now financially. Please let him know that I am grateful for him being a great example of a true Latter-day Saint and sharing the gospel with us. We need more families like his here in Peru!

I hope Chris really dedicates himself to doing the best possible in his studies. If he gets a really good education he can have an entirely different life than his Dad and the rest of his family for that matter. I am proud that he has decided to be different than his parents and his cousins. Those Mormons really have the idea. There is a reason we are generally happier than the rest and it’s because we have a better understanding of our purpose in life; what really matters. We follow the commandments and because of that we receive more blessings. If we really follow the commandments we will always have enough to be happy.

This week of the 14th-20th of September was really nice for me. We have been really working hard in this ward and this week we saw the results of that work in three baptisms. We have one more scheduled for the 26th of this month and two more scheduled for the 10th of October. When I got here at the end of July the ward was dead and now there is life and that is the greatest blessing we can receive for the hard work we have done. I am actually a missionary now. It took 15 months but I am there finally. Who knew?! Of all people, me but I love it! I am really enjoying myself now and I am really growing a lot personally, socially and spiritually. I really feel like the man that left to serve a mission June 25th is something of the past. I thank God for that because I wasn’t the man I could have been. I was good enough but not the best.

I now know how true the phrase "All or nothing!" really is. I love you guys and miss you but I know that I am here for a reason beyond anything I could have done while at home. Truly, these are the best two years of my life! Please send my love out to everyone you talk to and let them know that I pray for them daily. Holla at Rob A for me. How is he any way?

Keep on keepin on because the next thing you know Ill be in the airport as a return missionary! The time will fly by like that!

Love,

Elder Morton

Letter from Elder Morton 09.17.09

Subject: Estoy bien y tu?‏
Sent: Mon 9/17/09 9:06 AM

I’m good, just had a few technical difficulties.

The Roe girls are keeping a bit of communication, that’s cool. There is life in regards to Annette also, that’s good to hear. I am glad she got her duplex. Hope all is going well for the Souza's. Keep me posted.

Yes actually I would really like to dominate Spanish grammatically and my pronunciation so that I can translate and that will help me a lot in the business world also. I do want to work for Fitness 19 once again as a manager so that I can have a stable income so that I can build my business until I don’t need Fitness 19.

I would like to use my Spanish in the business world in every way I can to provide a different type of life for my children. I want them to have the opportunity to see where I served and how the people are here.

In regards to when I return, I will need a trainer when I get back because I am WEAK SAUCE! I really want to take advantage of every opportunity that I didn’t when I was home so that I can be a better example than I was before. I have a lot to do and luckily a lifetime to do it in.

I realize I had and have many faults but I now know how to improve my weakness and it starts in applying the gospel to our lives. If we really have faith there is no limit to what we can accomplish I know this it be true and if you apply it to your lives you will be blessed I testify to that in the name of Jesus Christ Amen. I love you.

Love,

Elder Morton

Elder Morton and Missionaries

c

We can do it no matter what the obstacle!

Subject: We can do it no matter what the obstacle!
Mon, 7 Sep 2009 15:30:51

HEY YALL!

My new ward, well I will be here till October. We got the changes and I am staying for another change. It’s cool because I will get to see my friends the end October at the farewell meeting at the end of this upcoming change.

The ward is full of return missionaries that are all talk and no action. We bust our butts and they don’t do anything to help but ask "When is the next baptism?" I answered "When will we receive your next reference?" The good news is that after 6 weeks of hard work and perseverance we have 5 people who will be baptized this month if we keep up the intensity.

I hate to break it to you but I haven’t received any packages and there isn’t a box for me in the office because I was there this morning and they said there is nothing there for me. Things I would like in my next package if you haven’t already sent them would be lotion, vitamins, and maybe some anti-fungal cream for my feet and the normal protein powder and protein bars.
Wow I sure hope Chris gets all the financial help there is available so he can study without any worries. That way he can concentrate 100% on getting the best grades possible. It’s time one of my nephews invests in his future.

That’s sad to hear about Rob A and his mom dying, but at least she isn’t a drug addict anymore and whatever hard feelings he had about his mom he can put it all to rest. The saddest part is what happened with Rob and grand parents. Holding grudges really sucks and these old folks have a bad habit of holding grudges till the death and really it’s not what God wants us to do. We need to break this ridiculous tradition now and forever. I pray that Rob A overcomes this trial so that he ends up being a stronger man for it instead of giving in to the depression.

When Chris accomplishes all that, I too hope he gets a place with James. James needs help and I think Chris could give him the encouragement he needs.

Wow Ryder will be 1 year old! That’s crazy! Does time fly by or what?! Wally will be 36 Wow I thought he was still 34! It’s funny because if there isn’t a focus in your life but to survive not much will change. The proof is in your kids who are in their 40s. That’s why I am so grateful to be a member of the true church, and also to be a part of Team INA. I feel as though with those two advantages in life I will always be focused on the things that really matter and improving my weaknesses so that I can accomplish my dreams. If I use the things I learn here as a missionary in the "real life" I feel as though I will be prepared for whatever may come my way because I have learned to confide in the lord and not only to myself.

In regards to the will I am happy that you and dad have confidence in me enough to put me in charge of making sure your last wishes are done as you want. I will follow the instructions to the "T" don’t even worry. I only have one thing to say, do all you can to keep healthy enough mentally and physically to at least see my kids and then you can die! LOL

That’s cool that Rob A went to a church activity. I am really pleased to hear that the missionaries still haven’t given up on him. He is a good guy; he’s just a bit confused about the meaning of life like most of us are before we become members of the true church of God.

I sure hope Laura gets baptized soon. She needs the guidance that the Holy Ghost gives us. That’s sad that her husband got laid off. I sure hope things work out for them. I sure hope Dad gets to retire does it through the INA business so that you have a little spending money.

Send my love to the Rocklin 2nd and 6th wards they are the bomb!

I love you all, family and friends!

Elder Morton

Thinking of you in Peru!

Subject: Life is nuts!
Tue, 1 Sep 2009 20:04:43

Hey yall!

First of all I sure hope everyone get their acts together before I get home because if not, it will be really ugly for a few months because really it's time to grow up and realize how good we have it where we live!

Living here for 14 months has made me grateful for being born in the United States and not only that but being born and raised in the family in which I am in. We have it easy. Actually easy is an understatement. All we have to do is choose the career we want, go to college, get good grades, work hard and we have a house, car, nice clothes and plenty of food to eat and "if we are smart with our money" WE WILL retire. Here in Peru it’s not like that at all. You get to retire when you die and never have any extra money to save.

James is moving back home. That didn’t last long. It goes to show that you better watch who you live with! That’s sad that Matt is threatening to let James go. I sure hope he has started looking for employment else where.

In regards to Annette that’s ridiculous and there is nothing more to say than that. Annette. I was disappointed to hear they got kicked out and Justin was not able to move with his mother. What is happening with some of our family members leads to nowhere productive. But it is cool that Annette got her condo. I hope she enjoys it.

I am sorry to hear about Wally, Jennifer, Mike and Sunny regarding their homes and the economy there in California. I just pray that they might over come this trial and be better for it.

What is happening with some of my siblings is like the situation with God and Lucifer. Look what happened there. God is perfect and even he had a rebellious kid. Everyone has the right to do what they want with their free agency, some will choose to do what’s right and others will choose the way of the world. All we can do is our best and pray that everything turns out alright. One thing I do know is that everything happens so that we can learn a lesson, to better at something we lack, so look for the positive and improve in what we lack as children of God. Being a victim isn’t an option. I too look forward to my return and its getting closer than ever.

I truly know that the Church of Jesus of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints isn’t just the most correct of all the churches it's the only true Church of God on the face of the earth and for that I am grateful to be a member. The good news is that if we listen to the leaders of the church we will always be prepared temporally and spiritually for anything.

Chris having a job and plans to finish his education, that’s something that he will never regret. I am proud that he is doing positive things in his life. Send shout outs to the Rocklin 2nd and6th for me I got love for them all! I am happy for Joe and Katie they are truly great people that deserve all the blessings in the world and Josh and his little family equally.

Please tell Bishop Smith and Brother Solomon thank you for me, that really means a lot that men like then are proud of what I am doing here.

Please send a shout out to Joyce in OK and the same goes for Semaj and his family... little isn’t exactly correct but either way they are the bomb! Send my love to Jimmie and Fu when you get the chance. Send a shout out to the Young Guns they are doing a great job I am sure of it! Keep active in the business it will be worth it if you build it!> Adrian and his brothers are the best! I love those guys for real! What did they have to say? I hope they are doing well. I am going to cut this short because I want to check my other email from you so I love you guys and you are always in my prayers.

Till next time.

Elder Morton
****************************************
Subject: Re: Thinking of you in Peru
Date: Tue, 1 Sep 2009 20:20:01

Hey Mom,

I am really good. We went to the Temple today so we didn’t go to the internet place Monday. It was the bomb. I love the temple! The next change is on the 9th of this month but I don’t think I am going anywhere soon. I am a bit skinny but that’s how it goes, I don’t care. Yes I wear the new pants all the time. I’m good with shoes and it looks like I should be ok for the next few months. I just read and responded to your email from the 24th of August.

James doesn’t eat well and he doesn’t drink enough water for that matter and he is now having health problems. Keep up the eating healthy plan it will help a lot.

Don’t be sad about Melinda and Wilma at least the two of them will have peace now.

We went to the building where they make the Peruvian money and took a tour. It was cool. I have some photos. Today we went to the Temple and it was a good battery charge for me. Elder Rich seems to be doing really well. I don’t see him much but it’s all good. He is working hard and really I have so much respect for him. His Mom did a great job, and that mixed with how he is and what he has learned in the mission, he will make a great family man. I aspire to be like Elder Rich some day and maybe with hard work I will be able to accomplish that level of excellence. Gotta go but as always be positive and los vemos!

Love,

Elder Morton

Here we go!

Subject: Here we go!
Date: Mon, 24 Aug 2009 14:54:44

What up with it?

Just kickin it here in Lima bustin down doors like a crazy person! Don’t worry about the letter it happens sometimes. So you have turned into Dad, sit down and in two minutes OUT like a light?

I'm really glad you guys went to church Sunday I know the more often you do it the greater your strength will get and your faith will grow. Thats cool. Whats new with Jordan Mortimer, and if you know ALL the Mortimers? Im happy you got a kick out of the photos. I had fun at the Castillo de Chancay as you can tell!

Whoa! Tanya got divorced? That’s crazy! On a side note Jordan is the bomb! I really love the Mortimer’s; they give me something to shoot for as a return missionary. If I can come back as spiritually strong as them I would consider it a blessing over and above what initially hoped for. Joe and Katie Mortimer rock, send enviales saludos. Wow, Carter Zufelt got back already? It’s been two years, how crazy! Im sure the ladies will be taking a number to go out with Carter.

I am happy to hear that Chris is going to invest in his education and even more excited that for once his parents are helping him do something of significance.

Johnny and Carol still doing their thing. Great for them that they are thinning out a bit in their "youth." Annette is in the apartments where the missionaries live, that’s interesting. James' now feels your pain if you know what I mean! Matt is same ole same ole. That is too bad things didn't work out with James and his roommates not paying their share as agreed.

The photos of a wedding are a mix of members and our converts in Pucallpa, when I was in the jungle. There is a massive baptism also where all the people that got married got baptized the same day.

I would love to talk to Jordan because the sooner he leaves the better for him and his future, the more he puts it off its just delaying his progression spiritually and temporally and that is something he will regret for the rest of his life but it's in his hands. If he wants I will make time to talk to him about the mission from an old mans perspective. Rob A might go to Alabama that’s crazy. Good for him for finally getting As in his college classes.

Gotta go because I'm running late I will write more next time!

Love,

Elder Morton

I'm alive and kickin!

Subject: I'm alive and kickin!
Date: Mon, 17 Aug 2009 15:54:48

Hey yall!

SO as the title entails I am adjusting to the new responsibility as a senior companion. I am becoming more responsible about achieving our goals as a companionship and less just worrying about doing my half of the job. These three weeks have flown by, August is almost over and it feels like it just started last week! You probably have received a manila folder with a CD of photos and a letter for Rob A by now.

Today we have a free P-Day so I will write you guy another letter and send you another CD of photos because the other one only has the photos I took after my disc was erased. For some reason the computer cant read my other 400 photos using my USB but can read the photos from the chip directly.

It’s really interesting to see the ward from the perspective of a missionary. I never knew how lazy I was with my callings before but now I have repented and will do a lot better when I get back! My faith, through trials is growing and more than that I am putting my faith in action instead of treating it like a Christmas present that I wipe the dust off now and then to play with for a bit once a year, and forget about it. I really believe that if we do the hard things and let God mold us we really can have it all, or really have all that we need to be happy and healthy enough to overcome the trials and persevere till the end of this life.

We are really making a change in the way the members in this ward look at the missionaries in a positive way and as a result they are helping us a whole lot more. The mission really is the bomb because we are forced to dig down deep inside to find that special something we never new existed to get the work of the lord done in his way, and not our own. Everyday I realize more and more how very important it is for a young man to go on a mission, and especially me. I thought I was good and good was enough before but I have realized that its not. Its not even close and that’s why I hadn’t achieved the things I had wanted before the mission because I wasn’t capable enough on my own and will never be, but as long as I do my best, always striving to be better and submitting to the will of the lord anything is possible. The same goes for you guys if you submit yourselves to the will of the lord, be humble, obedient to the commandments and patient in the big picture things will go your way. Not everything will go smoothly but overall you will be blessed according to your obedience. I love you guys and pray for you always. I hope that you can learn from my experiences and draw strength from my strength in the lord because I know for a fact that if we follow the commandments faithfully, and follow the advise our our church it will be more than worth it.

I didn’t get a letter from you so things must a little crazy or you sent it and I didn’t get it like many other times but all in all I, as always look forward to hearing about the goings on in the good ole US of A! So till next time I love you guys and pray you receive many blessings while I am here in Peru!

Love,

Elder Morton

Things are going well

Subject: Things are going well
‏Date: Mon 8/10/09 8:56

Hey yall,

Another correspondence from the crazy world of Peru:

Thank you Mom for always having me in mind even though I’m so far away and all. You should be getting a letter and a CD with a few photos on it, but it’s not all because the computer couldn’t read my chip 100%. There will be a manila folder that has a letter to Rob A and the CD is for the whole family to enjoy. Thanks for sending the box. I should get it sometime next change.

My current companion is from Santa Cruz, Bolivia and this is his last month and a half in the mission before he goes home. He looks like Giorgio and is a bit like Giorgio as for his personality but less reserved. We get along well and because of that were working really well and busting our behinds. Elder Archila was my companion the last change and yes he is from Guatemala.

I want you to write whatever is comes to your mind as far as the goings on in California and whatever you have heard from Italy, San Francisco and everyone else recently, also what’s new with you and Dad.

I will continue praying and working hard and maybe eventually the lord will soften her heart. It doesn’t matter what the trial is you can overcome it Read Ether 12:6 and after that read 2Nephi2:27-29. You can do it I know it. You two are smart enough and hard working enough to achieve anything, just put your confidence in the lord and yourselves and you will accomplish your dreams. When I get home I will be busting my behind because I understand now how truly important the family is. Doesn’t worry I will find the woman I want to raise a family with and we will be a team like you and Dad. I am so very grateful for the fact I am here on the mission. The Lord is molding me in his hands here. It’s not always easy, or fun but it’s more than worth it. At times I regret not doing this sooner but there is nothing I can do about that now, just make the most of it as possible and I am doing that. Everyday I understand why the members of the church, although they have problems like the rest of us are a whole lot more successful and its because the men went on missions and learned humility, patience, diligence to the lord, and how to apply Christ like attributes to every day life. The woman learns the same principles as well. They LIVE the gospel, and that’s the difference.The grandchildren will grow up eventually. They have you and Dad as examples and if they so choose they will incorporate the example you have given them in their own lives to some extent. Chris seems to be turning out alright. For his sake I hope he goes to church and emulates the great examples of young men that there are in the Rocklin 2nd ward.

About Elder Rich I was mistaken he isn’t in our zone exactly. The elders in the mission office have a different P-day and zone meeting although there in the district of one of our district leaders and send him their numbers. I have no idea how that works. Elder Rich seems to be doing well. We had our interviews with the President and the assistants Friday the 7th and 5 hours later and 7 lessons later the meeting ended and we went on our way. I haven’t heard from Ezra Saenz since February or March when he called me and told me he would send a package. Have you heard from him since then? I have been really concentrating on improving in three categories because I feel as though if these three fields are strong I will have the tools to improve the rest and they are humility, patience, obedience. Be careful what you ask the Lord because you get it eventually. I have been given many opportunities to better myself in these categories and I'm sure that will continue to improve for at the very least the rest of my mission! We somehow did the impossible and got the husband of a member to commit to baptism this month and the missionaries have been trying for 7 years to do so. It goes to show that everyone has their time.

I love you and pray for you always. I too look forward to returning home, but I know the Lord needs me here for another 10 & 1/2months. The time will fly by and next thing you know the popular phrase will be "One time in the mission....." and there will be many more special moments to share.

Keep on keeping on yall!

Love,

Elder Morton

Living the dream

Subject: Living the dream
Date: Mon, 3 Aug 2009

Hey all!

Yes I received the code to my card but I hope I won't need it until I buy my farewell cards towards the end of my mission. In regards to the box it's all good I got a box the week before changes with some stuff that I needed. It would be really great if in the next box you send me some Q-tips.

It would do those grand kids well going on a mission! It really changes us and makes us more humble, patient, & obedient. It gives a clear understanding about our purpose in life and how to accomplish our goals but submitting to the will of the Lord, if we do that things will work out for us a whole lot better than we could have done on our own.

Things are great in Lima. My new area is basically the Peru version of Stanford Ranch. The area is full of rich people who are ready for the gospel. It's ironic really because my other experiences here in Peru were, up till now the contrary, if they had money they didn’t need religion. It's not really a new job it's just a reason to be more responsible and work harder because if the area isn’t successful it's my own fault.

My new companion will complete his 2 years of service in September and he is really a great guy. He reminds me of Giorgio a lot, but from Bolivia. The pensionist is really good and I probably will gain a few pounds while here. Yes Elder Rich has one more change after this one and he is home! I am really happy for him because he has really been a great example of being the best possible missionary in every moment, up till the very end. I respect him a whole lot and I am really excited because he is in my zone again.

Keep up the good work and I’m sure if you pray a whole lot and keep reading your scriptures and going to church you will get the permanent position at Sears. Wow Melinda has always been a bit sickly but that’s sad she had a stroke. In regards to the San Francisco crew just keep in touch with them as much as possible and what’s new in their lives.

Figure out a way so that you can go to church every Sunday even if its only for an hour its THAT important! In regards to INA functions be creative. You can always have functions in your house. It's one thing to know the principles of something, applying them is another animal completely. It's all worth it and then some, Church, INA compliment each other and really if we are converted and do what’s necessary we will receive the blessings after the trial of our faith.

Read the book of "Ether" in The Book of Mormon, it's an eye opener. Especially chapters 4 and 12. I teach these principles on a daily basis and over the course of 13 months I have seen the huge difference between those who live the gospel and those who understand the gospel and yet don’t apply it. I really want for you, my family the absolute best but if you don’t apply your faith in the atonement of Jesus Christ his suffering was in vane. All he asks is that you have faith in him, repent of your sins, be baptized, receive the gift of the holy ghost, and preserver till the end of our lives and if we do that we will receive eternal life. "You can do it!"

Love,

Elder Morton

Elder Morton, Senior Companion!

Subject: I’m going to Lima as Senior companion!
Date: Mon, 27 Jul 2009 16:24:16

Hey yall!

Our next change is this Wednesday the 29th and I have done well enough to be senior companion which means I’m in charge! It’s crazy to think but its true, the president trusts me enough to be a leader. I thought I would never be capable with the way I was progressing, but you never know what the future holds.

I did receive the box you sent June 12th with the soap, razors, protein bars, powder, vitamins and calcium which the calcium will last me my whole mission! I also received the photos, letters and garments.

I am now in the process of writing Rob the Animal and I will send the letter out as soon and possible.

I burnt a DVD of all my photos and will send that out too. My weight is more normal now. I am probably about 135-140 I would guess but I have no idea really. I am basically used to the food now so all is well there. Oh yeah tell Rob A that he should eat more meat and less protein powder!

Wow Jackie got hitched! She looks happy so I’m happy for her. I’m even happier to hear that Dad got to walk his daughter down the aisle.

That’s cool that you visited Earl and he was happy to talk to you guys. Those old people need a visit every now and then to keep them going. It’s a service that I wish I did more of before the mission but now that I have learned the value of service I will be doing more of it when I get home.

It's been tough here as a missionary in Huaral because the people don’t really want to listen to us or our message and its sad because really there is nothing to lose and everything to gain being a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I have learned so very much to confide in the Lord a whole lot more and that the key to real joy not only is having faith but being obedient to what we know is true. I am grateful for making the decision to go on a mission. I wish I had the faith in myself and the lord to have done it sooner. I know that this is what the Lord wanted for me all along and now I am lucky enough to experience it for these two years. The principles I learn here I will be able to apply not only as a missionary but as a latter day saint, a son, a brother, an uncle, and eventually a husband and a father. Its absolutely priceless.

I pray that my family too may have the desire to know for themselves why their little brother, uncle or friend is in Peru preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. It’s because as crazy as it sounds, families really can be forever. The only way they can know for themselves is to ask God himself if its true in a prayer, and if they pay attention they will receive an answer.

I would like if Mom did our family history for the next 11 months because when I get back I want to do the temple work for the Giosso’s and Morton’s. A name here a name there when there is time.

So how is everybody doing? Sounds like Annette is still very busy and that’s ok. James is growing up and that’s really great. Chris is turning out to be a good young man; I knew he could do it. Wally and Jenn are the same it seems. Mike and Sunny seems to be happy with their little rascal and I'm really excited to see him when I get home.

What’s the latest on the San Francisco crew? Jimmie, Fu and the kids, Semaj, China and my newest nephew. Joyce, Revonda, and her rascals. The young guns? Bill and Sue, Jenna, Adam, Corey, Brett, Michelle, Colon, Adrian and his brother.

Especially how are you guys doing? The old guns hanging in there? Rocklin 2nd and 6th any good news from there? I received a letter from the Rocklin 2nd wards young women who did a camp out of some sort and wrote the missionaries. It was cool.

As always I love you all and pray the best for you. May you overcome all the trials Satan throws in your way and cling even more firmly to the "iron rod."

Love, Elder Morton

Letter from Huacho/Huaral, Peru

Subject: Huacho/Huaral, Peru
Date: July 10, 2009

Hey Fam!

I don’t know how I managed it but I have a few extra minutes this morning so I am writing a little bit of what’s going down with me in Huacho/Huaral. First of all it isn’t the jungle, so right now it’s a bit cold, but I brought a sweater.

This branch has over 1,500 less active members and about 100 that attend weekly. The church doesn’t have a computer so everything is kept track on paper so finding addresses to houses is an adventure. I, somewhere along the line obtained a negative attitude towards Latino’s and all because of my developing pride and impatience. After two verbal fights with my companion in two weeks I had no choice but to look inward on the situation and come up with a solution. I realized that needed to change not just for now, but for the long run, and in a big way. I’m in the midst of that now, and I am grateful in every way for the opportunity in which God has blessed me with to actually become humble and patient like Josh, Jon, and Joe Mortimer and all the other really great young men that served missions and now are great men of God. I respect them a lot.

I've had a lot of time to think of what I want to do with my life when I get home and the Team INA business will be a big part. I want my family to have the opportunity to see the world and how good we have it where we live. If I bust my behind I will get married in a year from when I get home from the mission and a year later we will be able to buy our first house. At this rate by 30, my wife will be a full time mom and I will be working part-time for “the man” and part-time for myself. At age 33 I will be retired and a full time dad. It’s possible and all’s I have to do is obey the commandments, work hard, and stay humble. I hope you guys are working the business as well as going to church amongst the craziness.

How crazy is that? I’m talking about my own family, wife, and kids like it’s just around the corner and I have almost a year left to serve before I can do anything about these things. I’m getting old before my eyes but that’s inevitable really. I am changing in just about every way possible but I know it’s what God intends for me and I’m happy with the man I am becoming. I’m not the man I need to be but thanks to the mission I’m getting there little by little. God has a plan for us and if we do our part we will be blessed temporally and spiritually.

As a missionary I see the difference between the faithful members and the so so and the reason why the faithful seem to always have enough in every sense, not necessarily rich but enough to over come trials; it’s their faith and obedience to the commandments. All we have to do is keep on keeping on in a positive way and with a whole lot of faith nothing is impossible, no matter age, race, or looks.

I love you and pray you are all well. Please give my shout outs to everyone we know and love.

Love, Elder Morton

Letter from Elder Morton, 07.20.09

Subject: ¡Estoy muuuuy bien! Gracias
Date: Mon, 20 Jul 2009 14:54:20

Hey yall!

Wow Jenn and Wally are once again with Jenns Mom?

Thats crazy that the great grand mother suffered a stroke, thats not good.

That Mike likes to work far from home but who can blame him with the crazy family he has LOL! Wow Ryder has 7 teeth already? He is growing up quick but thats how kids are! In regards to Annette let her do her thing. She knows where you live, your email, phone and cell number at this point its in her hands. You cant worry about her, you have more important things to do like take care of your health.

I'm glad Chris has turned out to be a promising young man. Thats more than I can say for the rest it seems. Selfishness and pride seems to be more the rule than the exception. I, through these last few months have realized humility, patience and charity are three big keys to success and real happiness in life. I heard that Dad totaled his truck and he was a bit shook up but alright. Its good to hear nothing drastick happened. Say hello to the Mortons for me, all of them!

I have changed a whole lot its crazy. I was thinking about it the other day and I still have a whole lot to learn and 11 months to do it in! I dont make the nasty comments every time someone says something I dont like and I am taking criticism a lot better; Im basically taking it like a man! Sometimes its better to not make a scene and do what you have to so you can get what you want in the end. The woman I marry will have to be great because of our kids, if they take after me they will be crazy for the first 23 years! These past 2 months really have been humbling for me. Its been really good because I truely believe I needed it more than I knew. I am discovering on the mission not only how important the family is but what I want for my own family and what I will need to do or sacrafice in order to get it. I realized the first two years of my post mission life will be hard, but if if I take what I have learned here about faith, obedience and dilligence it will be worth all the hard work in the end because my family will have the life I want for them, the life they deserve.

I hope you guys are still doing your all to build your spiritual wealth as well as financial wealth. I know you guys are capable of great things it just take a little bit of faith, obedience, and dilligence and you can have it all!> I love you all. Please keep me updated with all the crews from Rocklin to the Bay area to Italy and everywhere else because I got love for them all!

Love,

Elder Morton

Castillo de Chancay Castle in Peru, 07.06.09

Letter from Elder Morton, 07.13.09

Subject: Growing up in Huaral
Date: Mon, 13 Jul 2009 15:37:57

Wow!

Last week for you guys was crazy with the accident and all! That’s cool that Matt said he would be there for you guys. It seems like the two babies are growing up James and Rob that is LOL! It is nice to hear Wally Jennifer helped Dad lending him their car. I was sorry to hear about Matt & Annette I hope things work out for her and my nephews.

It’s true what they say in INA, they always change the deal and the deal always requires more work for the same pay. Are you guys still working the business or just buying the products? I know you can do it and not only that, but you NEED to do it because you guys aren’t getting any younger and you cant keep up this pace for long or you will work till you die, literally!

Jackie finally made the commitment, good for her! Rodney seems like a good guy. Yes, please send photos. I look forward to the smiles. Wow Claire will be 9! Please send her a very happy Birthday from Uncle Rob! Ashleigh will be 14?! That’s crazy to think. Man Mike will be 31, the babies are getting old! Yeah, that’s right Wally and Jennifer’s Anniversary is in August. 10 years of bliss, you got to give them props for making it work and not giving up when they could have many times.

I haven’t received that letter from Rob A but that’s because we didn’t have interviews with the President June and July it looks like it will be towards the end before we have interviews and changes are the 29th so by sometime this month I will receive that stuff. I will write back and give Rob A my opinion as soon as I receive the letter, without a doubt.

I recently wrote you all a letter and I’m sending it today with a cool post card from a place we visited as a zone which is near the area me and my comp get to preach the gospel. I am also going to look for an area to burn my pictures onto a CD once again so I can send you the photos I promised. You would be proud of me. I am really growing up. It only took a year in the mish to break me down enough to be willing to change but its happening. It’s so much easier to learn when you are humble and willing to take criticism and advice from people who really know what they are talking about. The culture is different here and I am actually adjusting and changing my way to interact with people for the better. They are sensitive here and I’m really learning how to sweet talk so that I don’t offend people and so that I can be a more effective missionary.

You and Dad are still going to church, praying, and reading your scriptures right? I sure hope so. I pray for you all a lot and I hope you follow the prophet and his counseling’s because they are modern revelation and we will be blessed if we follow what he and his apostles say.

I love you all and have faith that if we do all we are able Jesus will make up for what we lack and we will be blessed spiritually and temporally and with the excess we can bless the lives of our family and friends.
You can do it!

Much Love,

Elder Morton

Elder Morton 06.29.09 in Huacho

Letter from Elder Morton July 06, 2009

Subject: LIFE IS CRAZY SOMETIMES!
Date: Mon, 6 Jul 2009 16:13:07

Hey yall!

I heard about Micheal Jackson and didn't believe it at first. It seemed like a bad joke. It's something that seems like it will never happen, but even the most talented and or famous die. I didn't know Farra Fawscett died, but as you said she wasn't doing well for quite some time. As of now I am good on protein, vitamins, soap, and shampoo for a while. I think I should be good for at least this change. Chris is going to church? Good for him. It's the best atmosphere he could possibly be in. Chris always had a good heart, he just ended up in the wrong crowd for a few years. It's great that Chris has the desire to finish school. His education is of great importance for his future and the more he gets the better for him as a man.

Wow there is dry rot in the bathroom, that will be a tough job. The kitchen floor needs to be replaced too? Man that is crazy.

That is James for ya. I was like that also. Man on that note I'm sorry for how immature, and proud I was. These past few weeks have been a real eye opener for me. I never realized how disobedient I was really until now. The mission is such a big help with young men like myself that need to be more humble, patient and obedient because there is no choice but to be that way or you can't have any success.

Are you serious?! Wow how crazy is that?! Brad Smith is in Santiago, Chile and Zach Zufelt is in the MTC? Man those little ones grow up so fast! How is Elder Cook in Texas? I bet he is doing so well. He was the type of young man I wish I was and pray my kids will be like. I will have to write him a quick note. Yes people can still write me at dearelder.com. I get those every time we have interviews with the president. Once a month basically. Yeah forwarding the emails with photos to my yahoo account is cool.

Speaking of photos is the problem with the I was going t mail you is that someone erased all my photos in Pucallpa the jungle) and a member has a program that retreived all my photos which is awesome. The problem is now here isnt any computers that want to read this disc to burn a CD. I will look around for a place here but I havent had a chance yet because every monday and tuesday we are in a bus for three hours for P-day and another three hours for zone meetings so basically all my free time is spent in a bus, but today we have our p-day in my area so I will look around.

Every day I am here I realize how many opportunities I had and how blessed I was and Wow I didn' take advantage of my blessings at all and for that I'm here, 26 years old in a country that's nothing like Rocklin, CA. I am just now learning things that 19 year old kids learn in the church. Where did the time go? God is so patient with us. I have a year left to work on my weaknesses so that I can be a good missionary and by the grace of God alone I will return home the man I was supposed to be. Pray for me, I will need it!

I love you guys so very much and pray every day that you too can overcome your trials and hard times. Remember to always keep the cammandments and never give up no matter what the adversary says.

I love you all!

Elder Morton

Letter from Elder Morton, 06.29.09

Subject: I like good news!
Date: Mon, 29 Jun 2009 16:06:32

Hey yall,

I received your box from May 10th with the debit card, vitamins, hair stuff and protein. I haven’t used the debit card yet but I will check to see if it works. I’m glad to hear you got a break on the mortgage, that’s a blessing.

Well I guess we have to look at what’s going on in peoples lives to really understand why they act the way they do. Basically their life isn’t what they'd hoped for and they aren't getting any younger and their disposition can only get worse as things continue do not to go their way. They feels as though they did everything right but still their life isn’t going in the direction they want.

The only thing you can do for them is pray for them, love them and help them when they let you, the best you can.

In regards to Jamie and Jordan, you did your best to mend wounds that are 14 years old and well on that note at least your conscience can be free. What’s up with these unhappy people is they do not have the gospel in their lives so really they don’t get it. They don’t understand really what our purpose in life is, period and that’s huge.

The names of all my companions: Elders Saenz, Garnica, Ayala, Mamani, Aguilar, Choc, and Archila is my current comp.

I don’t have much more time because the bus was late and I don’t get my normal hour. I love you all and pray for you daily. See you soon....

Love

Elder Morton

Letter from Elder Morton, 06.22.09

Subject: P´Huacho me fui!
Mon, 22 Jun 2009 16:23:25

Dad, Día del Padre Feliz! Happy Fathers Day! Thank you for all that you've done and do for me, I really do appreciate you. I couldn't have asked for a better Dad than you. One of many things I've learned this year is how important family is. You all mean a lot to me.
Much Love,
Elder Morton

Hey yall!!!

So I’m here actually in Huaral. It’s a huge branch that once was a zone and now is the area of two missionaries. This change for no apparent reason has been a rebirth for me. I am taking the lead and contacting everyone including people chilling on their roof! I am super excited because I feel as though if were obedient and diligent we will be effective tools in the hands of god to work miracles.

I haven’t received a box yet but if there is one to be received I will receive it tomorrow. I am now using that big bottle of shampoo because now I have all my luggage where as before my big suit case was in Lima because we can only have one suit case that weights 42lbs. We will see how well it works with my hair situation but I look at it like this; my grandpa Andrew was bald before 30 and he didn’t have a problem with the ladies!

Wow that’s really good news about the house! It seems like the hard work is paying off! Yes keep working hard and doing what you can to drop the weight, its at this point starting is a life and death situation like I said. I would like it if you were healthy enough to ENJOY my kids no matter how crazy they are but in order to do that you need to take care of yourself, and quit putting yourself last for a while, spiritually, temporally and financially.

Don’t let comments like that from Mike at Fitness 19 stop you from doing a good thing such as going to the gym? It wasn’t his intention for you to stop going to the gym, but go more often.

I have learned so much and I have another year left! They have no idea what life is really about or what really matters most. I see why Mormons are so much more successful in life in general. There are always exceptions but for the most part LDS families really are united in one cause, the eternal happiness of the family, not in cool toys and things that don’t last.

I am so very grateful to be here in Peru. I understand more so now the example that Joseph Mortimer gave in his homecoming talk that first Sunday he was back from the Mission about being in debt to God and through our good works trying to pay him back and yet when we do so he blesses us even more making it impossible to ever settle the debt. I feel that way now. The harder I work and baptize people more and more people he blesses me even more every day with life lessons and memories that are priceless. I am not the same man I was when I left home and it’s not a bad thing at all. I am not perfect. I never will be perfect, but I understand our purpose in life and for that I’m forever grateful to God for calling me here and my family and friends for making it possible to be here. I love you all and wish you the best that life has to offer.
Much Love,

Elder Morton