Blaine : Called To Serve

2012-01-09T19:05:00.000-08:00

Dear Fam,

Hey it's been another long week. We had a lot going on this week. I had to exchange with the other Elders from monday to wednesday. It was a lot and a lot of finding. To be honest I really hate finding. We spend far too much time knocking doors and talking to people on the street and then have our members tell us, "Why do you go work in nicer areas?" Well if you don't like the people we find then you can go and find someone for us please. We then had a blitz with the zone leaders for half the day on wednesday. That was after the district meeting the I had to do. I have to do another one this week too. I then had a District leader council meeting on saturday that I had to report about the district and the individual missionaries etc... crazy stuff.

I feel a lot like I am hitting the wall lately. Like I'm trying to sprint to the end but something keeps getting on my way. I don't know what it is. I want to do better just lacking something. So ya. Things will hopefully start looking up this week. It needs to this week. We got to get people to church or they won't be able to get baptized before I go.

Elder Brown is difficult. He's up and down. Some days he's really good and other days he's just not bothered. He'll find some potentially people and then forget about them and not mention them to me. Ugh. I know he wants to but he doesn't show me much support. It's difficult when you have a load to do and to report upon.

Well I don't know much to report upon this week. We had some little miracles here and there but no luck with getting people to church. We have such great and nice people we are teaching and finding but they aren't going forward like we want them to. So this week is going to change. We'll fix it. I know that it'll be way better.

Thanks mom for the £££ so I can get a new suit. Devin I hoped you had a fun birthday. It sounds like a blast. I'm jealous of the snowboarding. I hope the snow is still good. Myranda... you should look up a SNL skit that Taylor Lautner was in. It's him and someone else trying to get the sibling to surprise their parents that they are expecting. One of the siblings (Kristen Wiig) just goes completely nuts. That should've been my reaction. ;) I remember it from before I left. It's hilarious. Anyways I hope you all have good weeks.

Love Elder Dudgeon

2012-01-03T08:04:00.003-08:00

Dear Folks at home,

Well so this was an interesting week. We had new years which was alright. Everything just full working days still. Kind of tough with how crazy people are. As well as Grimsby Town had a football match on New Years Day so you can imagine how rowdy people were, how cranky they were, how drunk they were, and how much they wanted to talk to us. Well not too much that last one.

It's a bit of a struggle to keep everyone excited right now about the work. It's trying to keep them positive and excited for the right reasons. It's hard during this holiday time but I know that it will get better. I can't think of many crazy exciting stories right now. Our zone leaders want to do a nerf gun war for our zone pday. Elder Brown and I are a bit dissappointed because thats kind of lame and we don't want to waste our money. Plus I would rather go do something really enlgishy for my last p-day as a zone. Oh well. Luckily Elder Brown and I have some flogged guns in the flat that we can use so no worries. The other elders in the district just went out and bought some for like £40 or $75 really. No way would I ever do that. So ya thats not too exciting.

Oh I do remember a story. We got back in contact with the couple I found on exchange and so Elder Brown and I are teaching them. Well this last weekend the Louth Elders had a baptism and since they just have a rented hall and not their own chapel they come to us for the font. So it was easy to get people there for us and we got this couple to come. They showed up and looked really nice. All in their Sunday best and they really enjoyed the service. It was pretty neat. So we have them scheduled for baptism our last weekend in the mission and we hope they will achieve it. We got a couple more people we are working with too. I hope to have at least one before I leave. Then it'll be a baptism in every area.

Well I hope you are all good. Thanks everyone for telling me how much longer I have left and that the time will go by really quick.. Cheers. I am excited about seeing all of you though. I miss you. Ta for now

Love Elder Dudgeon

2011-12-12T09:06:00.000-08:00

Dear Family,

Hey so good to hear from all of you this week. It's been a tough week. A bit of a struggle really but we will continue. We just got some devestating news that the 2.1 is closing down and they are splitting up the Elders. It's because of the missionaries going home before Christmas. So I've had to deal with 2 complaining missionaries this weekend. Not too fun. I was a also a bit frustrated because I liked having the larger district and and a 4 man flat now it gets smaller and just me and Elder Brown. I'm alright with it but I felt it helped me stretch myself further. But After praying about it and contemplating it a lot I realize that it's been a real answer to my prayers. One of the things I wanted when moving to Grimsby was to start learning all the lessons I needed to and that I could before I go home. I think these 4 weeks with these Elders has provided me with more opporunities to learn and now with them leaving I have even more to learn. So the Lord is just blessing me with more opportunities.

As I said though this week was rough. It was a bit slow but this week will sure keep u busy with taking over the potentials and investigators 2.1 had. Including the lady we found on exchange. They got back in contact with her because she didn't hold her next appintment but it turned out that her husband had a heart attack. She also has another friend in the hospital who's really sick. She is such a wonderful lady and has probably been at the hospital nonstop with everything. I hope we get to keep teaching her though and help them feel the peace and comfort of the gospel.

Elder Brown and I are going to be taking some pictures today and doing a bit of souvenir shopping. So i hope to find some things for everyone and send some nice pictures next week.

Well I got to keep this short so we can get the 2.1 elders over to the train station with all their luggage. It's a lot of stuff. I love you all though and send my love and Christmas wishes.

Elder DUDGEON

2011-12-05T18:51:00.000-08:00

Dear Family,

It's been an ok week. We have had some hard times this week around the zone. We are having a hard time getting people to come to church which is not good. This last week though Grimsby 2.1 and us found 9 new investigators. Some of them are really good. Some will drop by the wayside pretty quick I feel if they haven't already but it's just neat to see how many people are here and willing to listen in this area. I went on exchange this week with one of the 2.1 elders. We knocked into a woman who was kind of standoffish at first but as I was persistent with her she said out of nowhere that we could come in out of the cold. (which was great because like 10 minutes later it started down pouring.) Well we hear how she lost her faith in God because of her old church and how the leaders of it treated her and her husband, She just had a lot of questions too which weren't answered. It was scary at first because the way she was describing her church sounded a lot like ours like word of wisdom qualities and law of chastity. Well. it wasn't our church though just another strange christian church. It sounded like the kept her from helping others because she wasn't a full member of their church nor apart of it's leadership. Well she was very prepared for the message of the restoration and the gospel in it's fullness. It's amazing to see how it can bless some one just to start receiving true answers and understanding the things God has told us to do. She prayed at the end which was amazing and she thanked God for sending us to help her renew her faith. The other elders are left to teach her this week and see how things progress.

Today I have to leave it short though. We are just getting back to grimsby at 5:00pm because we had a inter zone P-day. We played american football against the Sheffield zone and we whooped them. I scored the first touch down. One of the receivers tried to catch the ball under pressure and it just bounced off of him and into my hands and I was able to run it pass a couple defenders to the end zone. We then played a game of football and beat them there. I keep playing goalie and everyone asks if I played in high school or college. Nope. I just got a sense of what I am doing. So that was fun today to see a lot fo people. It was good to get out of the way because it took a lot of planning and things to get it done and so I am really tired. Oh well I move on.

I hope you are all doing well. I miss you. I hope things go well this winter with Myranda wrapping up school and Sarah too. I'm praying for both of you. I hope mom and devin start feeling better. And mom enjoys not being a disabled orangutan any more. Love you all

Elder dudgeon

2011-11-28T07:04:00.001-08:00

Dear Family,

So the excitement of the transfer has sort of worn off and now the real hard work begins. We had some disappointments this week with some solid people who we thought were going to investigate the church. I've never had as many people give us their details and say we can come by but then flog us later. The whole district is facing this problem so we are finding ways to work harder and stay excited. We have a really young missionary in our district who's from Norway who's really gotten excited and is doing some good hard work and it's wearing off a bit on the district which is great. I have a few ideas to band the elders together to really push hard. Grimsby is a blessed area but it is a difficult one.

So on Sunday we went and bore our testimonies (the missionaries). I kind of rebuked the ward. The first Sunday was a stake conference and so there was multiple missionaries and multiple wards there but nobody really in any of the wards came and introduced themselves to us. Some of the excuses were they didn't know which ward we were over but it doesn't really matter. If you are a warm and friendly person and not embarrassed of who you are you would go up to everyone and say who you are. So I told the ward that I was a bit saddened because I know that they are better then that. I mean I can go and introduce myself to people which I was doing but it's sad when you say 'hello I'm Elder Dudgeon' and they just say hello and walk by. But I bore some powerful testimony after wards and I know that it hit several of the members because they did come up to me and introduce themselves. As well as our Bishop reached out to the other Grimsby 1 missionaries and asked if there was anything he could do for them. I really appreciated that. The wards here have what they call friendly rivalries but really those things can get in the way from working and growing together. So Sunday was good. we got some LA there but no investigators yet. We'll keep trying though.

It was good to hear that Devon and Whitney had a great weekend. I was really happy for both of them. It's neat to hear about Taylor coming home soon as well. Too bad he'll be going straight out to school. I would've loved to catch up with him again. Oh well though theres always more time and more people. Well I miss you all. Talk to you soon.

Cheerio

Elder Dudgeon

2011-11-21T07:06:00.000-08:00

Hey family,

How goes it this week. Sounds like everyone is doing well. Getting ready for the holiday season I see. It sure is hear they have been putting out the big Christmas trees around the towns. Let me tell you about my first few days in Grimsby. It is so beautiful! We go running on the beach for morning exercise. It has been cold but not too cold. My companion, Elder Brown and I are planning on going even in the cold. It gets us going and awake in the morning. Elder Brown is so great. He's a great missionary. He's from Bountiful Utah. He really knows how to work hard and keeps me organized. I really can help him with getting out there a bit more and being constantly bold. We really Help each others strengths and weaknesses which is great! More about the area. It's quite small and it's split into 2 with the Grimsby 1 Elders. then we have a third team, Grimsby 2.1 who can go into both areas. They are white washing but they live with us. They are so fantastic. Both kind of young missionaries but hard workers and have a lot of faith and we all get along really well. We really excite one another. One is from Las Vegas and the other one is from Sweden.

This week we have a had a lot of finding. We found 3 people though since I came in and we scheduled 2 of them for baptism and are set on teaching them more this week. We aer hoping to have a couple baptism in the month of December. So let me tell you about of the people. Elder Brown had contacted this woman a week ago. She was leaving her house and walking away but shouted back her details and said we could come by. Well last night we felt we needed to knock a certain street. So we go there and Elder Brown remembered that this woman said we could come by. He had scratched off in his planner because they had already tried by with no one in and she seemed not that solid. But since we felt impressed to go to the street we tried by again and got in. Her power was out because she needed a friend to come pay her money so she could get more. So we taught her by candle light the first lesson about the restoration. Then we invited her to be baptized. It was so neat that setting. She is very prepared too and is really nice.

We had stake conference this weekend here in the Hull stake. President and Sister Lindley spoke which was great. They talked a lot about missionary work of course. It was a record setting stake conference because we became the first stake in England to broadcast a stake conference to another building since the stake is big and so spread apart. So that was neat to be a part of.

Well I got to get going. I miss you all. Please don't worry about the Christmas presents as much I just need a little $$$ well £££ you know what I mean. Love you all.

Elder Dudgeon

2011-11-16T08:50:00.000-08:00

Dear Folks at home,

We all got a number and mine got called down the line. I'm officially out of Keighley and I am heading to Grimsby 2. IT's right on the ocean. I am so excited. I am going to be in a 4 man flat too. It's in the Hull zone so it's a zone I've never been to before. It's going to be so great. Google the address and look at the map of it. It's so pretty. It may be cold but I am going to love it. I am going to be serving with Elder Brown who is from my group. That'll be fun. It's kind of a geeky guy but he is a lot of fun. As soon as he gets going he's great.

My new address is

Elder Blaine Dudgeon

39 Humber St.

Cleethorpes

DN35 8NN

Keighley has been good but I really need something new after Elder Jestice and it will help me stay excited to the end. So besides an exciting transfer call I am doing ok. My mood is going up and down all the time. I think I'm just tired and stressed. I can see the end in sight so I try to sprint but some times I get discouraged. Most lately I am pushing hard as I can. think this move will help me continue. So all post and things need to go there. And by the way for Christmas I am not really bothered about much. You don't need to send me anything really. I am just in the process of sending things home and getting some family souvenirs and stuff (T-Shirts and ya). So if you want to send me anything, money would be the best thing.

Want to hear a funny story this week. So we were at a members house for tea and we were having some home made pizza. Well The crust was a little hard and while we're eating the member bit into his pizza and then we here a crack. I thought it was the pizza crust at first but he got a disgruntled look on his face, put his pizza down, and then reached in to his mouth and his front 3 teeth fell out. Well you should've seen my face. It was nasty. His bridge for his teeth broke. It was quite funny afterward but kind of gross.

Well My talk this week went well. I was one of 2 speakers. It was remembrance sunday here too (like veterans day) so I was souppose to keep something to that. Well the topic I got was living peaceable with one another so I talked about how wars are not good because they do not bring us peace. That fighting is something of the natural man. We do it as children, but that the higher law is to live peaceably with everyone. I talked how the greatest thing we can do to honour those who have fought and laid down their lives is to strive to live in peace with the opprtunities they provided for us. I tried to push that it is in honour of our covenants that we need to do these things and then how the gospel of Jesus Christ is the answer to how we do it. I also spoke about justice. How even if we are wronged and we seek justice we can still be wicked. It depends on the manner in which we seek that justice. If it is contentious then it is not good. The verse I kind of highlighted was in Romans 12:18 and the last verse in that chapter which talks about overcoming evil with good.

So that was a nice highlight for the week. Not much else is new. I am sending one parcel home right now. It just has some things that I don't want to carry around as much. But there are a couple of things in there for mom. (licorice and pontefract cakes) and dad has a couple of football team glasses and coasters. The rest just set aside for me. am going to be sending more things home for everyone don't worry.

Well I think that's it this week. I love you all

Elder Dudgeon

2011-09-19T06:47:00.000-07:00

Hey,

It is good to hear from all of you this morning. It sounds like summer is winding down and the push to winter is almost here. Life is getting back into full swing with school starting up again and the last trips of summer coming to a close. I hope you enjoyed yours. Mine has been short, but my mind set is similar. Preparing for the the long push through fall and the lasts harvests of the winter before the inevitable end of my life begins haha. Alright nuff drama.

How goes it this week? Can't say much here. We have had some amazing and dramatic events take place but not all I can type because of the private information it contains. Just know that it has been a blessing this week to see some of the steps our investigators are making to repent and to come unto Christ.

Something I can talk about though is a wonderful family from the Czech Republic. We have been teaching them as best we can in our broken english. This past Sunday we went down to their home in the morning. Every single one of them was ready for church. We walked with them to the bus station and caught the bus up to the chapel right as the meeting started. As I sat next to them I could see the father feeling the Spirit with every hymn, every prayer, and every talk. Though not every word was understood, the feelings were there and (as he later described) felt peace and comfort and joy. He described how his heart went out to the sister who spoke in the meeting. As her voice choked, explaining how she felt about the gospel and how she had been blessed, he could feel it to and wanted to cry with her. His children got a bit bored but loved the singing in the sacrament meeting. NExt week they will come to all the meetings and I can't wait for them to enjoy primary.

This week has been tough with Elder Jestice. It's really quite frustrating. Just continue to pray for me.

I got to go but thanks everyone again for help and support.

Love ELder Dudgeon

PS I HAVE GOTTEN POST IN A LONG TIME. except for dads package (YAY!). BUT I AM STARVING FOR SOME POST. TELL PEOPLE TO WRITE ME. FAMILY, RELATIVES, FRIENDS, ANYBODY.

Much love

2011-09-13T08:09:00.001-07:00

Dear family,

Hey thanks for the emails this week. It was a rough one until yesterday. We had a mission tour with Elder Donaldson of the area presidency here. He used to be in the mtc presidency when I was there so I know him quite a bit. It was really good and I will tell you about it a little later. But that's the reason why I am emailing today.

It was a rough week with Elder Jestice. (yes myranda you are right). Anyways it was a rough week because we didn't find any new investigators as a district till Sunday. We found one here in keighly. I was trying to work with Elder Jestice and the other teams with how we can improve and they all just get back to me and say that they can't think of anything. They all just kind of threw on me. Great. I came up with some ideas and a plan for Elder Jestice and I and gave it to the Zone leaders. They weren't sure about but I held firm and confident with it. I think it's just from how I explain things them. I am not the best or they don't understand me. Well all the things I mentioned were talked about at the meeting yesterday. Elder Donaldson spoke about all of them and how we can use them. It was pretty neat. During the meeting I also got to go up there and help him with his instruction. I don't normally volunteer but I wanted to be a good example for the district.

Afterwards President Lindley talked to Elder Jestice and I separately. He told me everything he had said to Elder Jestice and what he wanted me to do to help him. It made me feel a lot better after him talking to me and the trust he said he has in me. It was just a good time to talk to him. That he sees that I'm working hard and trying my best.

Well I don't remember any stories to talk about this week. not too much happened. A missionary came back to Keighley with his parents. It was really neat to see him again because I have served around him before and with him on exchanges. He's from Holland and has been home for a few months. It was neat to see the effect that a mission has on someone, but its hard to see sometimes until they get home.

Oh here's a story. So I street contacted this guy a couple weeks ago who said we could come by. He gave us a false mobile number and when we went by no one was in. This week though I was thinking about it and just felt that we really had to go by and see if he was in. Well turns out that he doesn't even live there but a nice lady did. We started talking to her and she let us share the message with here and we are going to see her this week. It's funny how that works.

I wish I was home for all the memorials and things like that for 9/11. No one was even talking about it over here. One guy on saturday even made a joke about it when we knocked into him. (He then found out that we were Americans and apologized). It's kind of sad. The only thing that really appeared was mention of the Brits that died in the attacks. People make more fuss about the London bombings here still. Which is sad as well but this is something that effected a lot more people. It was a bit frustrating but it's how it is.

WEll I am doing really good this week. I hope everyone is enjoying the end of Summer. Mine is very cold and wet and windy. YA English SUMMER!

Cheerio

Elder Dudgeon

2011-09-05T09:47:00.000-07:00

Dear Family,

So sorry about that ast week. I am still really tired and stressed. I have a lot to deal in my little district. I can't believe how difficult it gets sometimes. I got a bit depressed this last week, but I just kept plugging along and it's gotten better. I think it's because Elder Jestice is not the most obedient missionary so it's difficult. Like when a day is rough and nothing goes right and you haven't done all you can to be obedient you start to question yourself. When you are obedient though, even if they day goes wrong, you still have that to fall back upon to feel good about. So I have really strived for that this last half of the week and it's gotten way better.

We are teaching a few more people now. We have a Czech family we are teaching. It's a bit difficult with the language barrier but we get by it by comparing material and using google translator. I haven't used that in a long time on my mission but they've updated it a lot now and it's been a real help. Plus with the church constantly trying to update their website helps a lot. They were met to come to church yesterday but the father was sick. We have a few more people we hope to progress to baptism by Conference weekend or the week after. It should be good. Keighley is a great place and has some blessed people in it.

A funny part from this week. We got some lunch after a meeting on Saturday. We were going to take it back to our flat to eat and so we could drop off our stuff. Well we got on the wrong bus that took us farther away from our house. It would've looped back and brought us close but Elder Jestice had to start eating his lunch on the bus. The driver got mad because he could smell it and told him no eating on the bus and kicked us off. There are no signs that say you can't, but Elder Jestice wasn't the nicest to the guy. So we get kicked off the bus as far away from the flat that it could've left us. We then had to walk back to our flat cutting across some trails though the parks and woods. I had to stop every 20 paces for Elder Jestice because he has ingrown toenails that he hasn't fixed for like 3 months so his feet hurt when he walks. So ya it was a long day. Not much came out of the day either but I was obedient as I could've been all that day so I slept easy. That was nice.

Well Thanks family for your support. I hope this fall is good for everyone. It's my last fall of my mission. TIme keeps creeping up and that scares me. I don't need any reminders mom! ;) anyways. Love you all.

Elder Dudgeon

2011-08-23T07:55:00.000-07:00

Dear Family,

Hey I am sending some pictures. We had transfer calls last night. Elder Cumming is moving to Leeds 2 so he is still in the zone which is good. I am staying in Keighly and am getting Elder Jestice. I don't know much about him at all. His been out a bit longer then Elder CUmming but not over a year yet. It is really strange because this next transfer is the start of my last 4. I was just thinking about it and it hit me last night. It was weird and kind of scary.

Things have been good this week. The Skipton Elders really stepped up and excelled and reach their goal for the week. We did pretty good too. It was great because my ne leader didn't come down on me. And when we reported in the goals and plans and actions on Sunday it went super smooth. It was quite strange and opposite of the week before. It's how it goes sometimes.

I'm excited to get a new companion. Elder Jestice and I will probably be together for the next 2 transfer. So far for my mission it has followed the pattern of being with my compainon for 1 transfer then 2, then 1, then 2, then 1, then 2, then 1, then 2, then 1. So ya it'll be interesting to see what happens. I hear Elder Jestice is American so that'll be good. No more racist scotsman. I'm also getting another missionary from my group going to be serving in Skipton. So that'll be neat. I am just sad I won't be able to go to transfer meeting and see the sisters I came out with leave. Oh well. That's what email is for.

Well I can't think of much to write this week. Thanks for all the support. It's nice to hear that you think I am growing because for me it's hard to see. It's probably more gradual then anything. but ya.

I love you all

Elder Dudgeon

The pictures are one of me with a samurai sword. That was funny,

Then 2 are from the baptism. Me elder CUmming, Colin and his sister who introduced the chruch to him.

PS: I can't believe I forgot this. Colin who just got baptized has been on Dialasis for a long time. he's already had one kidney transplant. It takes a lot out of him and he has some really hard days. He's just been waiting for a kidney. Well we got a call on Tuesday moirning from sister Dean saying that Colin got a call from the hospital to come in straight away, they got a kidney for him. It was so good. So He has gone in for the transplant and just recovering in the hospital. So great!

The last picture is one of me and a recent convert named Michael. Michael is an artist and does a ot of landscape paintings. I asked him if he could do a tree of life painting for me. He did and signed it and gave it to me. It's like my favorite gift I've gotten my mission so far.

that it. bye

2011-08-08T07:32:00.000-07:00

Dear Family,

Hey, I didn't get to hear much this week from people. It all seemed kind of short. That's ok though I understand if you're all busy. I'll tell you a bit about my week.

This week I got to go on exnchange to Leeds with one of my zone leaders. It was really good and I got to learn a lot from him. It' helped me a lot to know what I need to do to be a leader and to stay more organized, but as well how to more effectively help the other missionaries. It was a long exchange though, from Monday to Wednesday. Some fun parts though, last P-Day got filmed a little bit playing basketball because one of the missionaries has a film crew following him making a documentary. I love it that some P-Days we get to go play basketball in Leeds. On the exchange I also got to meet a player for the Leeds Rhinos rugby team. He's a member of the church and is really nice. He fed us lunch. Elder Horner my other zone leader was with Elder Cumming in Keighly and was jealous that I got to go. He thought that we were going to barbecue but we didn't.

The rest of the week has been fun and a learning week. We have a baptism this week here in Keighly. We got to take him down to Bradford this weekend though to see one that was going on there. It was neat because I got to see some old ward members there that I haven't seen for almost a year. It was so great. I love this area. But ya we have a baptism coming up which will be great this week and we have a lot of new people we hope to get investigating this week. Elder Cumming and I have really been working hard on "keeping it real". To be more natural and friendly with people to help them feel that trust and Spirit from the very beginning. Hopefully it'll get us out of patterns that we sometimes get into while finding. It's a really good skill that I am already seeing good results in and will make the rest of my mission epic as I learn to master it. Elder Cumming has been getting on my nerves this week a little bit. He gets really down on himself. If I try to give him some feedback he just takes it really negatively so I working on that to make him more positive. We have a focus this week to study charity and love.

Well I hope everything is going good at home right now. I've been getting a lot of questions and advice lately about what I'm going to do when I get back. Come on I got 6 months left! That's forever right? No I know I need to think about these things but I'm not dwelling on it too much. There's a few things I need to get sorted out, but I'm looking forward to the next 6 months and finishing strong. So ya no worries.

I miss you all

Love

Elder Dudgeon

2011-08-01T09:56:00.000-07:00

Dear Family Units,

Hey how goes it this week? We had a good week for the most part. We are working with quite a few people towards baptism and should have a few this month which is great. The ward here is doing great. I love it. I am a little tired the most because I'm not used to my new bed anymore. I left Ponte on a queen size now I have a single. Not that I am complaining but it's just quite funny trying to fit on it.

This week I went on exchange up to Skipton to help the Elders up there and get to know their area a bit better. It's a very pretty area and has a lot of beautiful country side. They have a small branch there that just started last year when I was in Bradford. They used to be in the Keighly ward but it's a long way to travel. It's full of tiny little villages that are pretty neat. While I was there I ran into a guy with a blue and green football top on and I immediately realized and said "that's a Seattle sounders jersey!" I think the man was quite frightened of me and I was a bit flabbergasted, but I got that he was from Paulsbo and married a woman from Skipton. It was neat to run into someone from close to home. While I was there I also talked to a lot of heathens. Well that is how they introduced themselves to me. It was quite funny. They got all offended that I believed in God and said we should believe in the earth. Quite a silly thought though. One kept yelling down the street which was funny because all I said was really hello to him and a short approach.

So I don't really know what to write about this week. I can't write anything too serious because the church has sent out a warning to all the missionaries to watch what they email home and that it's not sensitive to people. Like contains their names or events that they are going through. So I'm trying to watch myself with that.

I hope you are all doing well though. Lot's of good things are happening here. We should have a baptism next week which will be great.

I'l talk to you later though,

Cheerio,

Elder Dudgeon

2011-07-25T06:46:00.000-07:00

Dear Family,

Hey how are things this week with everyone. We had a good week here in Keighly. Had some good work going on this week and got to find some new people too. A lot of little miracles throughout the week that have been such a great blessing to me and Elder Cumming. I love him he is so great and is one of my favourite companions. He is such a good missionary and has a great desire. He has a few things to learn yet but he's open to everything and takes criticism and grows. So good!

He doesn't like how I still make fun of his accent sometime but it's just a lot of fun laughs and jokes with each other. I can open up and ask and get advice from him too which is great. He's one of the few companions I have had that I feel we are unified in all we do.

The ward is great here in Keighly. I feel I am going to gain some weight here because of how well we get fed. We had a munch and mingle after church and there was a lot to munch on.

2 miracles for this week. We have this elderly woman investigator who is really sweet but very old. She has a bad leg from where she had cancer removed. We were trying to find the best way to invite her to be baptized but didn't know the best way to bring it up or resolve the concerns she might have. Well we decided to watch a DVD with her but unsure of which one. We prayed and decided to do one that I had never seen before. The story of John Tanner and his conversion to the church and the help he gave. It was an amazing story that seemed to be perfect for our investigator. He had a bad leg that was going to kill him but he was miraculously healed and accepted the gospel. It was so great. So after wards we used the opportunity to invite her and schedule her for baptism.

The other is this week we've been praying to find some new people. On Saturday we were knocking a street. Ran into some funny moments with a couple drunks and knocking doors with clotheslines in front of them. You see people here in terrace housing to have gardens really. Just a little tiny patio in front of their house. Most people hang dry their clothes. So while we're knocking doors we just have to go under or around the clothes. But it's really awkward when you have some one's bra or underwear right next to your face while you're talking to them and trying to preach the gospel.. Elder Cumming gave an approach to a woman who answered her door. He said something about prophets and if she felt it would be important to know if God is working today and called a prophet. She said yes which took him by surprise. We asked if we could share the message, but she was busy then but said we could come by the next day. We did and she was right there waiting to let us in. It was a good appointment and she was really nice. We plan to see her again this next week.

So we are seeing some great miracles here.

Thanks for all your prayers and support.

Elder Dudgeon

2011-07-18T06:46:00.000-07:00

Dear Family,

I am so excited to be emailing you from the Keighly library right now. We have had a great week. I really love my new companion a lot. His name is Elder Cumming and he is from the north of Scotland. Yep he's a highlander! He is so good though. Very diligent and hard working. He is very young on his mission though but he acts more mature and is better at teaching the doctrine then me! His accent is the best. I keep making fun of him for it and we all just laugh. It's words like book and took that are really different. SO when you say like the Book of Mormon, I start giggling. I had to stop myself Sunday because we both had to give talks. He'll correct me though if I don't say it in a scottish accent sometimes. It's funny and we get a long great.

A bit about Keighly. It is pronounced, KEEF LEE. Ya I know. Quite strange. It is a bit like Bradford. There are more muslim people here then Pontefract but definitely not at much as Bradford. It's surrounded by beautiful hills and valleys that are green and filled with fields and trees. There's even a steam engine that rolls around for tourists. Makes you feel a bit like Harry Potter huh?! It's not a big area here. There's little villages that all around, but they have a good size ward and we have a decent size teaching pool. We have a few people we are working with who are making good progress but we need to a lot more finding too. We've already done quite a bit this past week with just a lot abuse but we shall press on!

All the people I've met so far are great. I hope I've made a good first impression. I got in on Wednesday and that night I got a call and asked to give a talk on Sunday. It went well and I was really excited to do it. It was on ''The Worth of Souls''. I hope the ward enjoyed it. It was nice for me because I got to see all their faces and get to see everyone.I have already seen a few members from the Bradford ward or people from the take that had visited there. It's been neat to catch up and hear more about people. We live with members here and have a nice flat in the attic. The members are really sweet and nice. It's probably one of the nicest member/missionary houses I've been in.

So ya Pontefract is closed down for the moment. They had to close down 5 areas but with this next transfer I hear they are going to open 8. So all the ones plus more. That's pretty good. I got to see a couple members from the ward on Sunday. They were stopping by because of a little holiday they had been in on. It was so nice to see them. I just looked down in the congregation and saw a familiar face and I got a big smile in return. I hope Pontefract stays strong and that the new missionaries they put in there cando some good work. Keighly has a lot of ties with people in Pontefract. The former bishop here has a son who was our bishop in Pontefract. There's a few more things so it was pretty neat. I like that many of my areas have been close. I think there are stronger connections that way.

Well I don't have much more to say. I'll write to you next week. thanks for all the emails.

Cheerio,

Elder Dudgeon

2011-07-12T07:48:00.000-07:00

Dear family,

So we let me tell a bit about my week. Had a good birthday. A member from the ward came by and droped off a cake and a big bag of marshmallow mateys (the off brand of lucky charms). She's American and I have been telling everyone that it was my birthday. So that was nice. Both the cake and cereal were amazing! President called as well to wish a happy birthday. He told me I was getting old. I gave him a sarcastic thanks. Through the rest of the day I had different cards and gifts from the ward members. I got a package from whitney too that day which was epic. We had tea with some members that gave me some soft licorice that was oh so good. We had line dancing at the church and were able to get a couple non members there. I got more cards and they sang happy birthday. SO it was a good birthday but it just feels kind of weird. I was like mom as well. I had to write a few dates down on things and it was hard not to write 7/7/90 haha!

This weekend as well we had a missionary musical fireside. For a few months now the sisters in the district have been planning and putting together a program called 'Truth Restored'. It was all about the life of Christ to the restoration. So it was something our district did, so 4 missionaries and the zone leaders. We practiced a few hymns, 'Come Follow Me' and 'Praise to the Man' and 'Joseph Smith's First Prayer'. It was pretty good. A big part for me was one of the sisters asked to do a duet with me on a short hymn, 'A Mighty Fortress Is Our God'. So that was the first time for me to do something like that but it turned out really well. The biggest thing was President and Sister Lindley were there. President gave the closing remarks. He is powerful! Very powerful testiomony. He had all of us stand up and testified of what we were doing and it was just a great moment. So that was good this weekend.

So the even bigger news is this is my new address

74 Manville Road

Keighly

BD22 6AT

Ya we got our transfer calls last night. Elder Taylor and I were waiting and waiting and waiting. Finally we get a voicemail from the zone leaders. Some crazy changes happened. I was freaking out like all last night. First of all, I am moving to Keighly to follow up train Elder Cummings from Scotland. I am still district leader but now I have of district of 2 teams of elders. So I little bigger and no sisters. I am sad. I love the sister missionaries. They are always so happy and excited. Well, the other news is Elder Taylor is going to Middlesbrough. Yep they are taking us both out of the area. They are temporarily shutting it down! Yikes! They are actually shutting down 5 areas total because of so many missionaries leaving. I am excited to go to Keighly though because it is close to Bradford and it is in the Leeds zone so I can go there on P-Days! And, Elder Ashby, my favorite old companion is moving to Leeds 2 area so we'll be close to eachother again. It's exciting transfers. They called 3 new APs. Yep 3. We now have 2 travelling APs that will go around and help the different areas. So that's exciting. A lot of new zone leaders and district leaders and trainers this transfer. It's going to be huge.

Thanks for all the support I have been getting from everyone lately. It's been a hard time to stay excited. This area is difficult. The ward here is great but it's just been a struggle after awhile. I have been going back rereading my journal this week and found a lot of the problems I have been facing here were ones faced there. For some reasons they just looked different. I started reading the Docterine and Covenants this week too. I felt impressed to and have been putting it off. But I have found I really enjoy it and how powerful it is to us. I have a manual that I found in the flat that helps to give background information and that just makes the revelations that much more powerful. So it's really helped me out a lot this week. I love you family. You stick with me through my rough patches.

Well I got to go now but I love you and miss you. Make sure to send that address around and DO NOT SEND ANY MORE POST TO PONTEFRACT AS THERE WILL NOT BE ANYONE AT THAT FLAT TO PICK IT UP AND SEND IT BACK. ta.

Well Cheerio family,

I miss you,

Love Elder Dudgeon

2011-06-06T06:50:00.000-07:00

Dear family,

Hey so this week was a great because... WE BAPTIZED! It was so good. We've been teaching this lady for the whole transfer and finally on Saturday she got baptized. It was a great service. A lot of member came out which was great. The talks were amazing and everything jsut seemed to go smooth. Elder Taylor did the baptism which was good for him. He had to do it twice though because the first time she didn't go all the way under. The next day on sunday was good as well. The confirmation went great. There was a lot of people there for a baby blessing and for other reasons so it was a packed chapel for once. She is so good though. She lost her husband about six years ago. But she talks about how the gospel has brought her such peace and happiness and she feels it in her heart. Isn't that great!

We haven't really found any new investigators yet. We need to do better with it but it's difficult sometimes. We have been helping support some returning members. We've been seeing this man named John for a little while and he is great. He was baptised about 4 years ago. We've been working on him to come back and he really wants to as well. Well after the baptism he was having a birthday party because he just turned 60. We didn't have a lot of time till we had to get home and travelling by busses is difficult. Well we went out there and saw him still. Even though we couldn't stay long I was glad we went to show our support. It was at an old gospel hall and the was a lot of older people doing different dances because John loves dancing! Well he came to church yesterday and bore his testimony thanking us for what we've been doing. He's gone through a hard time lately because he lost a good friend recently. He asked us for a good verse from the Book of Mormon to share at the funeral and so we gave him Moroni 10:34. He said it was perfect and a lot of people there talked about it to him afterwards. In all it's just great to see the fruits of your labors and love for someone blossom in such way. He is a great man.

So things are going well in some parts and not in others. I'll keep plugging along though. I would send some pictures but the computer here is being dumb. I hope all is well at home with everyone. I got a lot of letters to write and send off today. I'll talk to you next week though.

Love you Bye

Elder Dudgeon

2011-05-31T08:44:00.000-07:00

Dear Family,

Hey sorry but this has to be a quick one. I have to catch a bus to go to the doctors office. I'm just getting a quick scan because I have not been feeling well lately. It's all been in my side and stomach like back before when I was in Billingham but it's been worse. It may be just more from me feeling stressed out or not I'm not sure. Hopefully it will all go well today. I'm sure it will. I think things may be more muscular then anything but of course I get the doctors with funny accents who don't listen to me.

Good news though is that the lady we've been teaching got an interview for baptism on Sunday and passed. It was right after stake conference which was a broadcast. Elder Perry and President Monson spoke. The best talk though was from Elder Kearon who's a seventy. So she should be gettting baptized this weekend which will be great. Also we got our transfer calls last night and Elder Taylor and I are staying together here. It's nice but I would've liked to move somewhere new. Oh well. Elder Taylor is struggling to adjust to missionary life I think. He still holds onto the idea that he has any sort of right out here. He also still acts like a hick. I keep telling him that he's not a hick or a cowboy out on a mission. But a missionary serving the lord. He's got a short temper thats hard to deal with as well. I hoping work harder this next transfer and if he complains then it's on him. It's how the work is.

Well I got to rap up. It was so good to hear from everyone this week. Sorry last week was zone P-day and never had a chance to email. We had to travel a couple hours just to get with the rest of the zone. But I'm glad for all the updates about people and things from home. I hope everything continues to go well.

I'll talk to you next week,

Love Elder Dudgeon

PS adress stays the same

7 Shakespeare Crescent

Castleford

Pontefract

WF10 3HE

PPS: For my birthday if people want to send me some sweets like Butterfingers or Nutty Buttys or anything like that. And money too so I can start buying souvenirs for everyone. ta.

2011-05-19T06:58:00.000-07:00

Dear Fams,

Hey how have things been going? I hope everyone is doing well. Sounds like it for the most part. I can say how great it is to be getting emails once a week. I haven't really gotten any post in awhile and that starts to get at you. Hopefully I'll get some soon. I did get Dad's letter by the way. So tell him thanks for that I really enjoyed it. I liked all the pictures too.

Well an update from this week. We had zone conference on Tuesdays which was great to see everybody. Our train got canceled though due to vandalism on the tracks. We had to get the zone leaders to come pick us up. They weren't too happy but what can you do? I really enjoyed hearing from our mission president and his wife. Everything they talked about seemed to be just for me. It was also nice because I got to see my trainer, Elder Eggleston, once more before he goes home and as well as Elder Ashby. I miss him. He has been my favorite companion and one of my best friends so far. So that was neat and that's when I got Dad's letter. Make sure he sends me things to my current address. Not my old one.

We've been teaching a lady and she's come to church twice in a row. She's great and has been reading the Book of Mormon like crazy. She should be getting baptized at the beginning of this next month. It would be the end of this month but there is a stake conference. And it's not about the date but her. So we've been doing a lot of finding as well and found a few new people this week. Some strange and some normal. We have a few more this next week to go by so that's great.

The district has been struggling lately. The sisters and us haven't been getting much success. I have a district meeting to prepare this week and hopefully it'll help us all get back in the groove and just work through this difficult time. It's hard because I know we're both working really hard and it's not the most inspiring when all you can say is to keep going and endure to the end. But I think I have a good meeting planned.

Elder Taylor is doing good. He's improving everyday and I learn a lot from him which he probably doesn't even know. He'll be a good missionary though. It'll be strange because I won't even see him hit his year mark. Ya thanks mom for reminding me how much time I have left. It's scary to think about. I was actually listening to Christmas music this morning (I just wanted to hear a little Josh Groban is all).

Well I miss you all. I hope you're all doing well. Thanks for every one's email. If anyone wants to send me anything for my birthday that would be great. If not that's ok. Money isn't bad so I can start buying more souvenirs for everyone.

I love you all,

Elder Dudgeon

2011-04-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

dear family,

Hey so big news this week. The calls came down the line and the word is I am going to be training this next tranfer! whoo! I am very excited to train. we won't know who it is till tomorrow though otherwise I would've told you his name. there are only about 4 or 5 of us training so it will be exciting.

Things have been progressing with the ward this week. We had 4 people at church this Sunday which was great. The Senior couple, the Bowens, gave their departing talks. They are going to be missed a lot in this area. They've helped quite a few people. We have a baptism planned in a couple weeks which will be great. He's been inviting everyone to his baptism. All of his family and friends. He has made great progress since we started teaching him.

We've worked a lot with some different members and are seeing a lot of results. The sisters in the district are staying the same and they are doing well in their area and just recently scheduled as well so it makes me very happy as a district leader. It's great to see success. not because it comes from us but to see the ways the Lord works through us. Many times I feel like I'm wandering around with my eyes closed. I have no idea what I am doing but the Spirit whispers, ''I do.'' Like following the instructions from a master when you are an apprentice. Just follow the instructions and you may not see how it works but it will and it has.

Well I am really sorry this is short we don't have much time email this week.

I love you all though and will send some pictures next week.

Much love,

Elder Dudgeon

2011-04-11T07:52:00.000-07:00

Dear family units of the great United States of America,

How art thou? Things are good here. We have an investigator who's progressing towards baptism nicely. He's such a nice guy and is a pleasure to work with. His understanding is not the best but he is learning. We're planning on the end of this month for him. He came to church yesterday and to our mission home fireside which was great. Every first Sunday President Lindley puts on a fireside. It was yesterday though because of GenCon the week before. Usually you have to be reaching standards to go but this time he opened it all to everyone. So we got to go with our investigator. It was so good to see all the other missionaries and some old friends. I got to ask about some old areas. Like for instance in Halifax, a recent converts uncle has decided to get baptized. He is a great guy and someone I remember while I was there. I also got to see the old ward mission leader from Bradford. He is such an amazing guy as well. He has been the best WML I've had on my mission and is someone I learned a lot from. It was nice just being able to catch up and talk with everyone and to see other people improving and getting advice from some as well.

This week has been a lot of finding efforts. Had a couple meetings in York and I don't remember if I told you, but we are ways from York. Like we take a train into Leeds and then another to York. It takes about an hour and a half to two hours by train then plus walking to the chapel. It takes a lot of time. Have had a few good experiences this week though. Got to talk to a couple nice people on the trains. It's a great missionary opportunity because they almost always ask what we are doing in England. I don't how much comes from it but it's nice to give a pass along card out or a pamphlet. We have to go to York again tomorrow for interviews with President and a zone meeting. I'm looking forward to that.

This transfer is almost over which is quite strange. It's a five week transfer instead of six and there are going to be a lot of changes going on because some zone leaders, district leaders and one of the assistants are going home. It's exciting to see what happens. So next week I believe we are emailing on Tueday with transfer calls on Monday. I'm pretty sure I'll stay.

It's great to hear that everyone is doing well. And the sounders winning! I'm appreciating getting emails from everyone. Sounds like Devin and Sarah and K are having fun and have some changes. Myranda seems to be enjoying Idaho for the most part. And married life haha. It was neat because the world report they show at conference was showing the BYU-I centre. Neat to get some videos of that. Mom sounds like she is doing good and hoping to get the garden started. I would like to do some gardening actually. There are all these things that I miss doing that I never thought I would miss doing. This week will be good though because we get to do some service for a lady we knocked into. She's a llittle elderly and needs help. Her front garden was the only one not done on the street. So we are getting our investigator to come with us and help garden.

Well I hope everyone is doing alright. I miss you all. I have an assignment though. In D&C 4 it talks about ''the field is white, already to harvest.'' Can someone tell me what it means by being white? Like how good was a field when it is white. Just a curiosity thing. Thanks.

Well I miss you all. I'll talk to you next week though and Mothers day is coming up. I'm looking forward to calling.

Cheerio,

Elder Dudgeon

2011-03-28T07:03:00.000-07:00

Dear Family,

Whoo let me tell you. What a week it's been here. It's been a rough one. We've had some good mircales though. We've found a few people to teach and one of them made it to the last hour of church. He accidently slept in because of daylight savings time here. Ya we just had that this last weekend. I think it's on different days then it is in the states. We had a zone meeting this last week which was really good. It took us forever to get to. From where we are we actually have to take a train into Leeds and then another into York. It was fun though I like to ride the trains, and I got to see 6 of the Leeds elders heading to their meeting as well. Got to talk some old people from my group and got to ask about Bradford so that was great. The day after wasn't so great.

My companion didn't bring any copies of the Book of Mormon with him or much proslelyting material at all. He was a bit confused when I was frustrated that we had to go back to the flat afterward. Not sure why he thought we could proselyte with out material or how effective it would be but ya. I had a book on me and some pamphlets and a hard copy that a mark and study from and we could've probably found a way around the situation with out wasing time but I just got to frustrated with his attitude. I think that's our biggest problem here. The work and the ward will really improve if we have the Spirit and more and more unity. We'll be able to find people, ward members will feel our excitement, etc... But he doesn't have much of a desire and I'm trying to improve and help him with that. I brought up to him how I felt we had a communication problem and why. He said no and that when I ask him a question and he answers me, but it's not the answer I'm looking for and then ask again he doesn't answer or say anything because he has already given me his answer. Well I ask him again after probing more because all he does is give me the answer he thinks I want. But the answer I want is the truth. It's difficult and frustrating. The oddest thing which I know and feel there is a problem is when I asked him about his desire and how it should show. He told me happiness and excitement are not expressed in how you act, the tone in your voice or the expression on your face like I do. Uhh? I'm pretty sure God created our faces to smile. If we're happy and we not we show it. You can clap your hands or stomp your feet but if we're happy and excited and have a strong desire to work, it'll show! So you see my problem.

I'm sorry for venting but I can't really seek much council from my leaders or other missionaries since they are so far away. I am in contact with President and he is aware of the situation. I 'm hoping to keep up my excitement though. I won't let that die. As well I will try to find opportunities to give service to him. Show some charity and love. I don't think he notices or understands that I'm wanting to do this for him. Not me to show I'm better or that he's a bad missionary but because he's got a lot of potential to a great missionary. And time is running short to achieve that.

So ya. Other then that things are great. I'm keeping high spirits and can't wait for some post. It's been awhile. This week is my first district meeting that I'm instructing so that'll be interesting. I hope all of you are doing well. It sounds like everyone is having their own bit's of adventure. I'lll tell you Pontefract is an adventure. There is some interesting history here and some great members that have offered to help show us around and do things on P-Days. It's a proper town not only because it's cool but it used to have a castle and has a couple old churches from the same time period but evrything is built around those landmarks. And their also kind of on a hill. Was a defensive thing, But ya. It's great. I fill you in more next week about some of the people we are working with so ya.

Love you all! CHeerio

Elder DUdgeon

2011-03-21T10:53:00.000-07:00

Dear Family,

Hey how goes it? Things are going well here. Ya the spelling of this place I had no clue. It's Pontefract though. It's been great so far though. This area definitely needs some help and I'm hoping we can give it. There are ways to improve in all places. The sisters who were here last were doing great. Things just kind of slowed down. So we are going to be working hard doing a lot of finding. Hoping to use general conference as a resource. ''Come listen to a prophets voice!'' It should be good. I don't know what it's been but I've been so happy since I've came to this new area. And my efforts and skills have increased as well. I don't know what is different. Maybe it's have to be more diligent and obedient and to set the example. The added responsibility. Who knows but it's good and it's helping me learn.

Pontefract is a good area. It's got some old castle ruins and is a nice proper English town. We cover the town and another one called Castleford, plus the smaller outlying villages. It's in the York zone so I get to go to York for meetings and zone P-Day. York is a place I looked up before I left and one I always wanted to go. The ward is smaller but has a lot of potential to grow. There is a family here where the husband is from Ecuador and his wife is from Spain. He was really nice to talk to on Sunday. Was very shy I think because of his english skills, but he was nice. Has family in Columbia so I told him about mom serving there.

In the district I'm over is 1 team of sisters..... That's it. HAHAHA! But it's so great. The sisters are Sister Harris (Idaho) and Sister Alidi (Botswana, came out with my group). They are such powerful sisters! They are already doing amazing work over in Harrogate. They used to be here. There was basically a swap of areas with the Harrogate Elders and Pontefract Sisters. Everyone stayed except for one elder whose place I filled. So it's not too hard white washing because the sisters follow up with me every night and we can ask them questions about people or the area. We also took over their flat. Wow, sisters flats are way nice then elders. And drum roll please. I have a queen size bed! HAHA. I have no idea why the sisters had queen size beds (I think a senior couple used to live there before). But it's nice and an added blessing.

My companion Elder Alsop is someone from my group and district in the MTC. He's from Oregon. He's not doing the best right now on his mission. Really struggling and we have a had an awkward past couple days. He's not the most skilled missionary or the boldest but he has a lot of potential. I hope things will work out. I'm doing my best to help him grow more and open up. We'll see how this week goes. I'm glad the sisters are doing well so I don't have to worry about having too much on my plate.

Well thats it for now. I'm so excited to be in my new area. There's so much work to do! my new address is...

Elder Blaine Dudgeon

7 Shakespeare Crescent

Castleford

Pontefract

WF10 3HE

Start spreading the word. Please be cautious though. This is a 5 week transfer. Transfer moves are on the 20th of April. So don't send anything a week before unless its to the mission office in Leeds. And I think i'm doing alright as far as things I need mom.

Hope all is well

Love,

Elder Dudgeon

2011-03-15T08:02:00.000-07:00

Dear Family,

I hope all is well this week. Things were interesting this last week. We found a couple new people to teach. It was difficult through out all the week though. Just trying to find people. Solid people. Not like this experience I'll share with you.

I was on exchange with Elder Caine (mighty south African from my group). We had appointment with a man. He was nice older guy. Long hair that was part gray. Was nice a friendly but a bit odd. As soon as we walked into to his little terrace house we saw good ol' Bob Marley smoking his weed on the wall and one of those things you use to smoke opium or whatever, up on a shelf. (ah great this is going to be a good one). Well we started talking to him and shared the Book of Mormon and the Restoration with him. He accepted it pretty well at first but... BUT... then he starts telling us about his thoughts/feelings. He truly believes he is the reincarnation of Jesus Christ. He's had some weird things happen to him while he was growing up. He seems to be a sign seeker. Looks for numbers and strange things. Apparently he saw some spaceships one day with some friends and when he told people they didn't believe him so he kind of summoned some space ships to come down and they did. Uh are you gathering this yet? He's used this kind of ''power'' to help some people over come problems by accident but when he starts to realize it the ''power'' stops. He's just had some weird things. His mother is named Mary and he's got a brother named Matthew and another named John so that has got to mean he's Jesus Christ. He does drugs still (apparent), smokes, drinks, swears, blah, blah, blah. Well we told him that he was not Jesus Christ. That Jesus Christ did not preach reincarnation nor would he not follow the commandments. The man got very upset that we did not believe him. He said Jesus would do those things today because he was tired of people and didn't want them to crucify him again. Well you get my point and we did all that we could to reason with him using scripture, logic and testimony but nothing. He was gutted that we told he wasn't Jesus. He didn't want the Book of Mormon, but kept it in the end.

Strange. That's the kind of people in the Billingham/Stockton area! Crazy! But I have some other news so put your seat belts on. It goes with the subject of the email. You see last night was our transfer calls. And.... I got a call about a quarter past 9. He called me to be a district leader and that I would be serving in an area called Ponterfract. Crazy I know, but something didn't seem write (I was trying to think who used to be serving there because it sounded odd). Well I was shocked and stuttered out an acceptance and was very excited, but then President kept talking. The reason why Ponterfract sounded odd to me was because it was a sisters area. They are pulling the sisters out and putting Elders in. I am going to be white washing (brand new, fresh start) the area with my companion, Elder Alsop. He came out with me and is from the Portland, Oregon area. I'm so excited. So I am packing up all my stuff last night and today getting ready to move on Wednesday. I am so excited to be a district leader. Humble and grateful that I've been called to it. There is a strange mood this mission has about leaders. They think to be humble you have to complain and say oh it sucks to be leader, you have to do all this stuff, blah, blah, blah. Well not me. I am excited to serve and inspire other missionaries in my district. It's a greater call to serve and a greater opportunity to learn and grow and I am excited for that. And I'm not like Elder Ashby who tried to keep it a secret. Mom and dad should be getting a letter this next week anyway so there's no point.

So that's the big news. I don't know my new address yet but next week I will get it to you. I have to get going though. There's people I need to say goodbye to today plus finish packing. (how did I get so much stuff?!)

I hope everyone is doing well. I love you all.

Elder Dudgeon

2011-03-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Late P- Day


Date:	Mon, Mar 7, 2011 8:37 am

Hey Family,

So this week was alright. A bit stressful. We did have a good P-Day today though which is great so I got everyones email. It was a great P-day because we went out to REDCAR. It's right on the ocean! We played 5-A-Side football on the beach with the whole zone. It was so nice. A little cold but a lot of fun. The sisters came too and I got one of them to take lot of pictures with my camera so I'll have to send some of those home.

So I don't have much time to write this week, but just too let you know that nuch has happened this week. It's been kind of frustrating but Elder Ashby and I are staying positive. I think we had members come out with us more then 7 times this last week and we didn't get into a single appointment. We called people to remind them, sometimes just hours before, to get te door and they not be home or drop us. But we'll keep trying. Transfers arecoming up this month. On the 17th is move day, we get the calls on the 15th though. So mom tell dad to send the package to the office because I'll probable get to me for sure then. That's if he does it like tomorrow. Allow for 8 to 10 days to get here. If he wants to wait till I know if I'm moving or not that's alright. I'll let you know if am next week.

Funny sto. My companion and I were going to our tea appointment in the even. We just got off the bus and get a wiff of barbecue. It was such a good smell. Somebody in the area had to be barbecueing. Well we walk down the street and the turn down another one. The whole time talking about barbecueing back at home and just our favorite things. Well we get to the house and they let us in. There was another family there from the ward and we asked about that and they were answered ''Oh we're barbecueing. So we invited more people!'' Elder Ashby and I just looked at eachother. ''What! That's you!? We could smell in two blocks over!'' It was a good meal and a good time. It was really funny because they had forgotten the home teachers were coming over. We see a member from the ward and then the husband from the recent convert family! He was on his first home teaching appointment. So that was neat to see.

Well I got to go. I love you all.

Cheerio,

Elder Dudgeon

2011-01-10T07:18:00.000-08:00

Dear Family Units,

Oi! What you like? Aw way! Ha ha Just joking. Oh you are asking for a translation? I just said 'Hey whats your deal? Come on.' Crazy I know but that's the language for you. How is everyone doing? Well I mean now after you emailed me because I know how all of you are doing. Thanks everyone for emailing me. Everyone sounds like they are doing good and winding down. The craziness of the season and that other thing. Glad it all went well and thanks Myranda for the pictures. Shame on the rest of you. I want all the pictures you can send. Myranda looked really perdy in her dress and everything. Hey can I get one of those ties that Brad is wearing? I like it a lot.

So this was a little back to normal and things started to progress. We've been finding more people to teach and more people have been giving us referrals to teach as well. SO that's good. It's still kind of slow though. We see a lot of new members and less actives. We see about 10 in the whole week. Mostly new members. It's hard because we want/need to switch them over to the ward and home teachers but we're lacking in some of the coordination. It's all good though. Let me think of some experiences this week...

We saw some new investigators and one of them is a kid and he was trying to describe the feeling he got when he prayed. He said it was like passing gas without farting. Like the relief after indigestion. It was funny, but true I guess. That relief and comfort you get from the spirit. So that was funny. We met the nicest drug addict. A very nice polite guy. Like the druggee with a heart. He believes in Bob Marley and Rastafarianism but he doesn't smoke pot anymore so thats good. Just some of the crazy people you meet I guess. Don't worry we're careful. We found plenty of potential people this week as well. Hoping to see them next week. We also went on exchange a few time this week. Once with the Zone Leaders which was fun, then again friday with the Middlesbrough Elders. They are having a rough time working together so they needed a good exchange. I'm trying to help my companion figure out what we can do to help them. I've been telling my companion why I had some problems with companions, what I did that helped and what didn't. I learned a lot from my last 2 which I think is why Elder Ashby and I get along so well. The dad from the family we just baptized got the priesthood Sunday aswell as invited some of their friends to church. They are doing really good and are really nice. They keep progressing and are even teaching me things. I think that's about it for the week. There wasn't too much exciting things happening that I can remember right now or that I can really say.

I can tell another story I had the other week though right after Christmas. Well it starts before Christmas. At the Christmas P Day at the army base, Sister Lindley, our mission President's wife, read us a story called Christmas candles.

A man went into a shop to by some candles for his lantern to get him home for Christmas dinner. He's rude to the candle maker because he makes really nice candles, very pretty ones but they will always melt into puddles of wax. So the man just asks for some plain ones, the cheapest ones. The Candle maker warned him though that they maybe cheap, but would be the most costly. So the man walks home with his latern lit with these candles. Well the story goes he meets several people on the way home, beggars and homeless. Everytime he sees them with the candle light though it looks like someone from his family. So shocked to see his mother, brother and other family members begging or hurt in need of help he helps or gives everything he's got. But when he takes the candle light from their faces he sees who they really are. Well he passes by one beggar before he gets home. A little girl, knowing if he shined the light on her what would happen. SO he gets home for Christmas dinner. See's his family's faces and remembers the people he helped. Remembers the little girl and goes back out into the cold to get her and bring her in for a nice Christmas dinner.

It was a nice story and made a lot of sense to us missionaries. So since I heard that I was trying to think of every person I talked to as a member of our family and to fight just as hard for them. Well one day Elder Ashby and I were out knocking with not much luck and were walking back to an appointment when he stopped a woman. Well I didn't notice it until I stopped and talked to her too, but she looked just like mom. Like dead on. Same height, size, hair, voice, face, everything. It was really weird. Well we talked to her and she was really nice but a methodist and so didn't really care too much. She heard of us before. We fought hard with no success. Well with that she kept on walking home. It was hard to see mom walking off like that but I was greatful for the experience because I learned so much about loving people and helping people from it. It's one of my more tender experiences lately so I thought I should share it with you all.

Let's see what else. Elder Ashby and I are great. I hope we stay together for another transfer or 2. How are things at home? The member we live with loves American football and was upset to tell me that Seattle beat the Saints. He tries to down Seattle every now and then but not this time. So that was funny.

Not much else to report. I hope you all are well. I have not received dad's little package yet though. So I don't know what happened. He sent 2 normal ones nad 1 small one right? Might want to see if you can track it down.

AS WELL THIS IS BIG NEW SO LISTEN UP AND THEN SPREAD THE WORD. THE OFFICE HERE CAN NO LONGER FORWARD OUR MAIL TO US SO IT NEEDS TO BE SENT STRAIGHT TO ME WHEREVER I AM OR TO THE OFFICE. IF YOU SEND IT TO THE OFFICE I WILL NOT GET IT TILL WE HAVE A BIG MEETING OR INTERVIEWS. WHICH MEANS 2 TO 4 WEEKS AT THE MINIMUM. I WOULD LIKE MORE POST THEN JUST EVERY 2 TO 4 WEEKS SO LISTEN UP MY ADDRESS HERE IN BILLINGHAM IS

ELDER BLAINE DUDGEON
40 ESSEX CRESCENT
BILLINGHAM
TS23 4AW
UK

IF YOU SEND A LETTER OR A PACKAGE TO ME MAKE SURE YOU GIVE IT A GOOD 7 TO 9 WORKING DAYS TO GET HERE. THAT MEANS THEY DAY BEFORE TRANSFERS IS NO GOOD. TRANSFERS ARE ON FEBRUARY 2ND. I'LL LET YOU KNOW WHEN THE NEXT ONES ARE. THE ONLY ADVICE I CAN REALLY GIVE IS WHEN IN DOUBT SEND IT TO THE OFFICE ADDRESS. IF IT GETS TO THE FLAT ADDRESS AND I HAVE MOVED IT WILL TAKE EVEN LONGER TO GET TO ME. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD TO FRIENDS AND FAMILY SO THEY KNOW AS WELL. OR MAKE SURE IT IS ON THE WARD BULLETIN OR WHATEVER. CHEERS.

well i got to go love you all.

Elder Dudgeon

2011-01-04T10:08:00.001-08:00

Dear all the folks at home, (mainly Devin because he is the only one who emailed me this week )

How was everyone's new years! Ours was very uneventful as new years eve should be on a mission. Went to bed at 1030 and woke up at 630. That was it. Elder Ashby and I did get something to eat (my last kebab till my birthday, I don't wanna get fat). It was fun. We enjoyed the next day thoroughly though. A full working day with no busses and everyone hungover and staying inside. We walked 18 miles that day. The feeling in my head that night was, ♫I would walk 500 miles and I would walk 500 more♫ haha it was good.

That day was actually quite fun. We went to the bishops home for dinner (aka: lunch) and they were all tired from the night before. They are a great family. Well when we were done and had some good laughs we were going to leave with a spiritual thought. But before we did the kids were asking us questions. First one was about colors which Elder Ashby started laughing at me because I'm still having a hard time telling between certain colors. Well we told them one more question that we'll answer completely truthfully so the older are thinking when the youngest who's about 10 quietly asks ''have you ever kissed a girl?'' Hahaha it was hilarious. I went bright red and so did everyone else. I didn't answer instead we gave the spiritual thought. But thats my funny story of the week. Things you run into. It was a good meal appointment because our Bishop took us out around his areas and showed where some of his friends live that aren't members so we can try by. Then took us to another members house. He's a good bishop.

Things have been kind of slow this week but going well. We are trying to mix things up a little bit. Break away from what missionaries have done in this area for years. Trying out new areas and working more with the YSA. We went through our area book and found some former investigators that are really good. We have met some LA and PM families to seek referrals from which is great. As well as we saw some recent converts that haven't been seen in awhile. They have just amazing stories to tell. Some are from Africa and faced many hardships I couldn't even begin to comprehend nor cope with. It was a really humbly day when we went by them. This has got to be one of the most foreign missions. You meet so many different people from all over the world and all walks of life. Speaking english is sometimes a struggle haha.

Things are so good though. Elder Ashby and I get along so great. Maybe too well. We can lose focus or go off subject pretty easy, but we are getting better at it. I don't know if I've told much about him. He's from Pocatello, ID. He's country boy but didn't grow up on a farm as my zone leaders first told me haha. He basically did what I did. He likes and listens to mainly country music which is funny because I've never met any missionary yet who likes country music. You know me, I like anything so we get along with that just fine. Oh funny thing, the member we live with taped the BYU v UTEP bowl game and we watched it this last P-Day since we are allowed to watch recorded sports. There was college basketball on right before it as well and it was just weird to here American accents and stuff, but neat.

I started to write in my journal again. I'm terrible at it. But Elder Ashby showed me how he does his and it seems a lot easier then the wasy I do it so I'm trying it that way. It's going well I've made it everyday since the new year and thats my goal. To stick with my journal because this is my full year here. From beginning to end of the calendar year I'll be on my mission. Crazy. I'm so excited though. Well I hope everyone is well. I bought dad a birthday present but it'll be awhile till I send it. I got it now because England does January sales. Right after Christmas and new years sales drop to 50-70% off. So it was good. I was thinking as well. If anyone sends a package anytime soon, send taco seasoning. Haha like those big containers of it. The other American missionaries and I miss tacos haha. Just a suggestion. I haven't gotten dads other small package yet. It may come this week though because of the holidays and the bank holidays.

I love you all and I miss you. Hope everyone is doing well. SEND EMAILS NEXT TIME AND PICTURES OF THE WEDDING. even if its just a couple of email. SEND SOMETHING!!!

TTFN (TaTa For Now)

Elder Blaine C. Dungeon Master

2010-12-13T09:40:00.000-08:00

Dear Family,

Hey ya how's it going!? So Christmas came early to me this year! I got 2 packages this morning from Dad! It was so great. No I didn't open any of my presents besides the one that said to open up ASAP. I loved to find my frog there. Tell dad thanks for sending him to me. I'm going to be sure to take some good pictures with him now. I have a small stuffed lion that I got from an investigator here so I take take pictures with both of them. I think dad will love them. I'm so happy with the Christmas CD as well from the NW Boys Choir. I was telling Elder Thorup about them the past couple weeks so it was great to get it. Elder Thorup loves singing.

I'm glad to here everyone is doing well. Things are going good hear. I'm working a lot harder and my focus is a lot better. Christmas season isn't bothering me anymore. Home sickness is going away. The only thing that bothers me now is trying to find people to teach which we're lacking on but things should be improving this week. Elder Thorup and I are worknig hard. Trying not to get caught up on all the recent converts that we have here but to also keep moving forward.

Well I don't have much time this week. I'm going to keep it short for you 3 so I can write dad a nice long letter. I haven't done so in a long time. So but about my week. Elder Thorup and I went down to Leeds on Tuesday and stayed till Wednesday. He had a leadership training meeting for all the district leaders, zone leaders and trainers, and President Lindley wanted to see me as well. So I got to work in Leeds during the day with some other missionaries who I used to be around when I was in Bradford, and that was great. It was nice to be in a real city again. So then at night I saw President, then went out with another mssionary to work till curfew. We did street contacting and it was a lot of fun. Street contacting in Leeds is so pretty and you meet so many different people. 4 of us missionaries got to stay in the mission home as well which was neat. Kind of odd though because President and his wife weren't there till way late. There was a sick missionary in the hospital. They have a really nice in Leeds which is a change from the small little room I got here in Billingham.

Oh it was neat because one of the missionaries that stayed at the mission home with me was Elder Hua. We were just kind of looking at each other all night like ''you look so familiar''. When we then found out that we went to BYUI at the same time, stayed in the smae complex, and took the same snowboarding class! It was really funny we were talking about it all night. I'm excited to hear from Myranada that the auditorium is going to be dedicated. That's neat. Oh by the way Myranda, so I have been exercising here a lot more and using those bands you gave me. Well I snapped one yesterday morning and it hurt. I was like ow stupid thing. Then I tried to use what was left because it was quite in half. But then 10 seconds later it broke again and snapped me. ow stupid thing! So I think I'll just have to resort to pushups and sit up for now.

Well this week was great. The ward is doing really well. Everyone is excited. We have a couple investigators who are looking really good. One who is going to quit smoking by the new year so she can get baptized that first week! We may have one this weekend as well but he needs a lot of prayers. The people that we have that are getting baptized are so great and the ward loves it. They are all really solid. Like they continue want to learn. It's something that they want to do and not just convienant or nice at the time. I thin that's what really has the ward excited.
Well I got to go but I love you all. Have a merry christmas and Myranda. Happy Birthday tomorrow. I didn't forget. how old are you again? 30? sounds about right.
Thanks family. I love you.

Elder Dudgeon

2010-12-06T07:07:00.000-08:00

Dear Mom,

Hey, I love you mom. Things got a little better this week. I did end up working a lot of it out. My companion and I have been getting a long a lot better lately. He is such a goofy guy and since I get pretty serious sometimes it's difficult, but I'm just learning to laugh at it and relax a little bit about somethings. It was funny though because he was really up tight this week. We had the baptisms of this amazing family of 4, the Cuthbertsons. My companion really wanted to make sure everything was perfect for it because it's a family he's been working with the whole time. So he was up tight and maybe a little stressed, so instead of making things worse I stood back and let him do what needed to be done. Trying to help him lighten up a little bit. The baptism went great. All problems were resolved and the whole thing was amazing. We had 4 different members baptize so we have pictures of 8 people in white! It was great.

I think the best moment though was the Sunday after when they were confirmed. We had the exact same people who baptized them confirm them. These were all members in the ward that had helped fellowship and support them. So there were 6 of us in the circle and each blessing was a little bit different but very special. It took awhile to do all of them though. The best part was afterwards was testimony meeting. A lot of members got up and bore their testimonies about missionary work and how it's been such a blessing. The the father of the family, Gareth, got up and bore his testimony. It was a wonderful testimony. He said he felt the spirit tell him to get up then he felt 3 more nudges from the spirit (or his family). He told about their week before. How they went down to London to see his wife's sister and got stuck because of the weather (Ya the snow is all over England now), and that their car broke down. But they were able to get back Friday night before their baptism. He said they were struggling quite a bit and being worn down but felt the support of everyone and got over all the obstacles. It was a good testimony. I almost cried. I dared not to look at Elder Thorup because I knew he was going to be (I asked him later and he said he was). Later on in the gospel principles class, they were in there and the lesson was on baptism. Gareth talked about how he didn't feel any different when he was baptized but rather that he had given something to God, but when he received the holy ghost that day that he felt like he had received something. Well it was an interesting way he said it because as we read later on in the book it talked about how at baptism we promise things, or give things to God, and when it is complete through confirmation that we receive blessings. It was amazing. A really really good weekend.

Another day that was good this week was Thursday. The theme for the day could've been service! We went and saw a couple recent converts that morning and gave lessons about service. How and why we give service in the church and how it brings us blessings. Well afterwards we went to another members home for lunch and to borrow a shovel. We had found a couple new investigators the day before and offered to shovel their walk. So we went to go do that and while walking down their street there was a few people who asked if we would do theirs. Only jokingly of course but we said sure! We shoveled in front of the investigators house (this is on a street thats just terrace housing. So it's just a front door then sidewalk) and when we were down we went down and shoveled the other peoples as well. We did about 6 houses, and got to talk to the people who lived their. They gave us some hot chocolate (after we told them we don't drink tea or coffee haha). We invited them to our ward christmas activity and asked if we can come around again later and share a little bit about our church. Some of them weren't bothered but some agreed. It was great. Well you think it would stop there but we tried to keep that theme for the day. We had a tea appointment with some members that night and decided to share a message about service using the examples from the day. It was a good lesson. Well Sunday one of the sons who just got back from his mission gave a testimony how he was thinking about service ever since we gave that lesson. Then out of nowhere he got a flat tire while driving. It was hard to change the tire in the cold snow with no gloves or anything and not exactly sure what he was doing. Well at that same time the Bishop drove by, saw him, pulled over, and had the tools to help him change his tire. He was greatful that God showed him the importance of serving eachother. Oh it was a great sacrement meeting.

So it was a good week. Things have really started to get better. Elder Thorup and I are getting along really well. I had already started doing the things you said to due. That is humble myself. I started finding ways to serve my companion more. I made him breakfast when he was having to prepare for a district leader council. Made his bed because he was running late. He's been really tired lately because of district leader duties and follow ups so I try to do the things that I can. I talked to the member we live with last night, Bro Kelly. He's a nice guy. He loves his american football so I talked to him a little about that last night (he's a big raiders fan), then I used the opportunity to talk about some of the recent converts and less actives. Bro kelly is in the Elders quorum presidency so I figured we could work with him more since we live together. He gave us the Christmas decorations for the tree and house so we can decorate. He said it's tradition for the missionaries to do it every year. He says that they usually like to do it so ya. I think it will be fun. I am excited to decorate. A member bought us a small fake tree with lights and decorations so we used the day we didn't have a tea appointment to put it up and decorate it in our room. It's pretty. I never have had a fake tree before.

Sorry no more snow there. We have tons here and it's really cold. I got a new jacket by the way. I don't know if I told you. It was free!!! Found it in our pile of flogged clothers in our room. It's a really nice coat that covers my suit, and is completely waterproof. And best of all it fits me. I guess some missionary who finished his mission there was about my size because I found a suit and shirts and stuff that were all my size. Most were too gross to wear though. There was some winter clothers though like hats and scarves so that was good. They just needed a wash. So don't worry about coats or anything for me. As well we had a mission rule change. We can now where hats in the cold as long as they are nice and conventional. So I have been wearing my headband a lot. It works great. I haven't received Myranda's announcement yet. Post has slown down though because of weather. It shouldn't snow too much though the next week or so so we'll see if I get it this week.

Well I hope things are going well at home for you guys. I hope dad is doing well. I miss him. I haven't written a letter yet. I've started a couple of times but never finish them. Let him know though that I am thinking about him everyday. I just want to make sure I write him a good letter. How is he doing with everything going on?

Well I'm gonig to send Devin and Myranda some short emails now. You are getting all the stories so if they ask you can forward them to them. I wanted to send you a nice big one this time though. I miss you mom. I thought everyone was going to be upset with me after my last email, but no one was. I'm glad because I felt really bad afterwards. But I love you and hope things are going well.

Love your son,

Elder Dudgeon

2010-11-15T06:52:00.000-08:00

Dear Family,

How are things. It's weird getting emails from everyone each week. Each time it's different and each one of you is different in your writing as well. It's hard to read them each week sometimes. And even harder to respond. What do I say that I can say for all to hear? Well this one is simple and easy because it's a new area and a new companion.

I'm in Billingham which is a small area. We cover it and a town called Stockton-on-Tees or just Stockton. It's a neat place very different from Bradford and Leeds area. There is no big city anymore. It's nice though. We're right next to a chemical or nuclear plant which is neat to see the huge chimneys just in the background. I'm not too far from the coast though which can go to on P-Days. Which I wouldn't mind. I miss seeing the ocean. But, this is a great area with a great ward and great people. There was a baptism just this past weekend and there should be more this month as well. So it's nice to come into that. We should've had a baptism back in Bradford this last weekend but I won't find out till later this next week. I do miss Bradford a little bit but I feel like I'll love this area.

My companion is Elder Thorup. He is great. He's from Taylorsville, UT near Salt Lake City. He has been out more then a year. He's the district leader. We get a long really well. No problems yet. He's just an all around funa pleasant missionary to be around. He loves the work, but knows how to enjoy it and make it fun. We live with a member which is interesting. Not something I'm used to but it goes well. I also sleep on the top bunk of the beds. That's interesting. Been awhile since I've done that. Not much else to say. I feel like I already know a bit about the area and the district because my second and third companions both served here.

How are things going for Myranda's wedding? Good? I wish I could be there now. What are the plans for Thanksgiving? Where's it going to be this year? I was telling Elder Thorup about the Turkey Bowl. I'm sad we're going to miss that but we may get together with the zone to play some touch football or some proper football against the Sunderland zone. What about Christmas? What's everyone doing for Christmas since the Wedding is so close?

I sent a package home with some stuff in it. Some is mine and some is for all of you. I have some old planners, a hymnbook, a pillowcase, and some coins and pins and things like that that I didn't want to lug around anymore. The coins are all the coins except for the 2 pound. If you line up the backs of them they make a shield like the one on the pound coin. There is a pin from the Piece hall in Halifax for dad. The other one is the White rose for Yorkshire and that's mine. As well there is a big bag there for Myranda with the Union Jack flag. Some chocolate for everyone. Souvenir tea towels for mom and English flag from the world cup for dad. As well as cd's full of my pictures. Oh and some cufflinks for Devin They were just kind of funny was. I was going to give them to dad but I don't think he'll wear them that often. That's all that I could send at the moment. And it's quite expensive to send things as well So ya. I hope you will all enjoy them. And I hope they will get there soon. It will take awhile because I sent it with the cheapest option.
Well that's about it. Elder Thorup and I are going to just go hang out for the rest of the day then head back to the work tonight. I hope things are going well. I miss you all. I'm not sure what to send me for christmas. Some easy mac n cheese. Those back heat pads would be nice. A copy of Jesus the Christ. Just some money would be nice too so I can get some things here. But I love you all.

Elder Dudgeon

2010-11-15T06:50:00.000-08:00

Dear Family,

How goes it? Everything here is going good. The week went well. I'll talk about that later. Sounds like everyone is doing well. I got some good emails from everyone today. Thanks for that. It's good to get those some times. Not too much happening though besides the norm back at home?

Well we got our transfer calls last night, and surprisingly I'm getting moved to Billingham. Elder Oviatt is staying in Bradford to train a new missionary. That'll be 7 1/2 months in one area for him. That's tough. But I'm kinda happy because that means I probably won't move right before Christmas or stay in Bradford for 6 months. The next Transfer happens 3 days before Christmas. Imagine going to a new area and spending Christmas with people you haven't gotten a chance to meet! So ya it should be good. They live with a member there so that should be interesting. It's been a pain though having to pack everything up. Bradford has been a good area. Good people, ward, flat, transportation, food, etc... It's been nice.

So we did have a baptism this weekend that went really well. The ward was great and President and Sister Lindley came and spoke at the end. It was powerful. The confirmation the next day was really good as well. It made a rough week nice. We should be having another one this weekend but unfortunately I'm not going to be there.

So some crazy story time. On Saturday morning, Elder Oviatt had a meeting for district leaders in Leeds that he had to go to. So I went with another missionary and did street contacting in town. During the morning a man came up to us and said that we had not accepted Jesus Christ into our hearts because we read the Book of Mormon. It wasn't very nice. He just went off on the bible says this, the bible says that. And I said yes it also says this and it also says that. Anyways he was very rude and wouldn't listen to anything. He left but about 30 minutes later came back and gave me a bible. He told me to read it and said that it was perfect because it was the simplified New King James Version. So I got a free bible Saturday morning. Pretty neat. Pretty annoying though.

We had Bonfire night this last week. It wasn't anything too special. Weak compared to the 4th of July. All the fireworks died around 10. BUt it had been going all week. Kind of weird. We had tea with a member here who's from Latvia. He is an older gentleman but such a good member. He fought in WWII and gave me some interesting perspectives on it now. Things weren't as black and white. It was really neat though. I love learning the history.

We have been working hard and finding a few new investigators but nothing to progressing so far. We'll see how Billingham gets. Don't send any packages either by the way. Not yet till I give you my new address. The office doesn't want to be flooded for the holiday season so they have asked once we move to send the packages straight to where we live. So I will send that to you next week. I did get Devin's though with all the music. Thanks it's so great! I love having more music.

Well I miss everyone. I love you.

Cheerio Elder Dudgeon

2010-10-25T06:45:00.000-07:00

Dear peeps,

How goes it in the great northwest? Sounds like things have been going ok. Nothing too crazy. Stake changes and everything. That's neat. Is everyone getting excited for Halloween? You have to be extra excited for me because they don't celebrate it that much. They have bonfire night but thats on the 5th of November for different reasons. I wish I could be there. Myranda and Brad look like they carved a pretty neat pumpkin of President Monson. Devin sounds excited for the ward Harry Potter Halloween party. Haha I'll show you Harry Potter. No we do need to watch them all when I get back and I'll let you in on what they are really saying ;) Mom said that Delvin Tapusoas cousin is coming to the Leeds mission! Thats way neat. Mom you will have to tell me his name and let me know when he is coming. (I still need to train someone haha). I got dad's letter this week and started writing him back. I felt it was important too.
So things have been good here. The weather has gotten really really cold. Not freezing but I walk around with a scarf and gloves on. My jacket I got is too thin for the cold. It's fine for the rain. I'll just need to start wearing my thermals I guess. This week has been a little slow. We have been teaching 2 people though who are looking good for baptism. They're both really great. One we gave him a Book of Mormon on Wednesday and finished it by Saturday morning! Crazy. We are struggling to find people to teach but there is room for us to improve. This week I am hoping will be better.

The Bradford district should be having baptisms these next 3 weekends in a row! That's so good. We just need to find more to keep it going. The ward has been doing great on backing us up and helping fellowship. I hope I get to stay another transfer here. The area and the ward are great. We just need to do better.

I can't say much about this week because it wasn't too good. Not many amazing things happened besides what I've already told you about. Well everything we do is amazing and there are lots just not many that I can think of and say. Well I'm gunna cut this one short this week. I love you all though.

Cheerio

Elder Dudgeon

2010-10-18T09:23:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!
It's good to finally hear from everyone. I'm glad things are going well with everyone. Sounds like everyone is busy with all sorts of stuff. I'm so jealous. I'm busy doing the usual. What's the usual you might ask? Oh it's missionary work! This week was ok. Different things happened, but it was not the best. So Lets start.
This week we had almost all the investigators we found last week, drop us. Sad day. That's not fun. We still have one we're working with who is doing great and coming to church. This week as well there was leadership training in Leeds. So My companion who became district leader, and Elder Caine (The mighty South African from my group) who is training, both had to go. So Elder Caine's greenie, Elder Porter from Toronto, and I had to work between both areas. So the whole city of Bradford! It was tough. We lost quite a bit of time travelling back and forth, and basically this week didn't go well because of that.
So we limped along after that. got one investigator to church. Then we met another person last night while finding. We walked with him to his house and then taught him. It was so good. He's my age and really nice. It was just a witness to me that God is working. I got really discouraged this week and was really down. Things just kept weighing on me and I let it effect my work. Well I got a letter this week from my friend Leah. We met back at BYUI. Well she wrote a lot about faith and working through hard times while explaining things that have been happening in her life. It was so great to get that letter this week because it was exactly what I needed to pick me up. I started looking at the things I was grateful for and the ways the lord had been blessing me this week. There was plenty I missed because I was down or discouraged. But I Started to notice those things more and it's really started helping last night. I got happy again and we saw blessings. Thanks Leah! This is why missionaries need post and people to write!
Elder Oviatt and I had some weird experiences this week. One of the times we were together we were walking to some investigators home. We had just got off the bus at the super market and started walking when this old lady stopped us and started talking about how they used to not have big supermarkets and stuff. How she used to work on a milk truck and crazy things. she was very upset on how England has changed. Completely random. Hmm. What else. There was that new investigator last night. We talked to him while walking to finding, asked if we could come by right then and share our message, he said sure, but it's more then a mile that way. So we walked and talked with him. That was really good. It went really well.
I think thats it for now. I'm glad Myranda is well getting ready for a wedding. I hope everyone is doing well and surviving that. I miss the Autumn season. It's one of my favorite times of the year. I wish I could be there to carve pumpkins and bake seeds and everything. People here celebrate it but not that much. They have what they call bon fire night, which a basically a night where you can have a bonfire. Whoo hoo. Very original. I think we'll carve pumpkins as a district on pday if we can find some.
Well Cheerio,

Love Elder Dudgeon

2010-10-05T09:53:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone,

How's everyone's day/week been? My has been good. I'm very tired though. I can barely keep my eyes open right now. It's Tuesday by the way. We have to email during our lunch time today because we weren't able to yesterday. For our P-Day we went with the whole zone to Malham. This area out in the country where you can do some hiking and stuff. It was fun to drive out there and see the countryside. It's the part you imagine when you think of England. We did do some hiking though. There were a couple water falls as well that were really pretty. I took plenty of pictures. I would send them right now but I don't have all of my stuff with me. It was great, really pretty. We climbed up the waterfalls which was amazing.

Sounds like things are going good at home. Glad to here that mom is back and that she had fun on her trip. Sorry it was wet but so was here. The past 6 days was rain, sun, rain, sun, rain, sun. One day it would rain all day and the next it would be sunny. Luckily it was sunny for our P-Day. It really pours here though. We were inside for most of it. But even the 5 to 10 minute walk inbetween appointments was enough to get soaked in. Oh well.

So I'm really tired today but it's ok. I'm always tired anyways. This last week has been good though. Went kind of slow. There was general conference this weekend which was great. My second out of 4 on the mission. It is a little different because we watch Saturday morning on saturday night. Then the Saturday afternoon, priesthood, sunday morning and afternoon sessions are all on Sunday. We don't get to watch the Sunday afternoon though because it is shown live here at 9pm. Too late for missionaries. But we got a couple people to watch a session. We had quite a few people confirmed to come but no one showed up or they canceled. Sad day.

Vikki, the recent convert, just got engaged. That's great. It's odd because I just here about Myranda then this one as well. Their dates are close as well. Maybe if I'm still here I can go. Well else is new... Not much really. Things have slowed down with Muna because she got a job and is very very busy all the time. But we'll keep doing our best with her. We've got a couple more people we're working with as well but not too much progress yet. We really need to pick up though. We can definitely do better in our efforts. Jason's sister is getting baptized this weekend. That's exciting. And his mum, Sue, is working on quiting smoking. It's so good.

Lets see time for some funny stories. One is the other day we were trying by a couple people in a village not to far from ours. We were walking back to the train station, and talking to people as we walked. I went to stop a person a few meters ahead of me by saying '' hey mate how you doing t-...'' then I had to correct my self, ''I mean ma'am how are you doing today?'' She looked like a man. But when I got close enough and said something I could tell she was a woman. I hate this I get woman that look like men and men that dress like women. People are weird on my mission.

Well nothing else really to report. I miss everyone though. I can't believe it's already October. Things are going quick. I say that and it hasn't even been a year. It's crazy. Anyways. Love you all.

Cheerio,

Elder Dudgeon

2010-09-06T09:32:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

Hello from the wonderfully multicultural Bradistan! It has been an interesting slow week, but good none the less. We have been working hard with the people we are teaching. The bare few. And we were blessed to find a couple more yesterday. The biggest greatest thing though was a baptism on Saturday! The Bradford 2 elders had a couple people getting baptized. I was able to perform one of them as well. You know who it was? It was Jason's younger brother Paul! Ya! Woo! It was so great to see everyone again. Jason and his girlfriend, Bryony, were there. As well as the rest of Paul's family, his mom, sisters, and a couple friends. It was wonderful. Paul and his family live up in Bradford area. While we were teaching Jason back in Halifax, he told his family about the church and not too long after he found the missionaries who serve in Bradford. He ran up to them and told them to come over to his mom's house some time. So the missionaries have been working on teaching the family and look at the wonderful blessings. We're working with our people up here in Bradford 1 area and we should be having another baptism later this month as well.

Some big news now. The wards here in Bradford, 1 and 2, combined on Sunday to make 1 great super ward of amazingness! So ya now we are combined which will be great I feel. It will help everyone in the wards and give people a better chance to grow in the gospel. It will be interesting though because we will have 2 teams for the whole ward. We'll see what the mission decides to do. It would be good to keep both teams it's just figuring out about staying in our areas and working with members and stuff. We'll see, more to come. The ward is great. There's even a few members that I think some of you have talked to through facebook. It's great to hear that members can communicate all the way around the world (plus I get to hear how you're doing through out the week )

Well I'm glad to hear things are going well at home. Glad people are asking about me and all. Glad to hear that Myranda is doing great (stressful but great) and that I'm going to get my wish! (It's ok Myranda you shouldn't mind). It's so good here. Their calling for an Indian Summer. I'm not sure what that means but it's been pretty nice this last week. Not really really hot but it's been pretty good. I love it. Well I hope everyone is doing well. I wouldn't mind some post though from people. Thanks though everyone for the support.

Yours Wonderfully and Truly,

Elder Dudgeon

2010-08-31T07:43:00.000-07:00

Dear everyone and anyone,

Hello! How do, how do? Things have been good here. It's getting colder, though today and yesterday were quite nice. It's been freezing while knocking doors. Not too much fun, but we try our best to stay positive. It has been kind of a rough week. Not the best. We're still low on people to teach. There's a quote though that I've read recently, ''Nothing happens in missionary work until you find some one to teach.'' It's true. It feels odd to to go for a time without teaching a lesson. We have been putting forth good efforts but now it's time to do great. It's the only way. It's the doing every little thing we can to find people to teach. We did find a few people to teach this week and some potentials so that's great.

There was a protest in the city on Saturday. It had something to do with Muslims and an English Pride group. People trying to keep England the same. Really they're just a racist group. It happened a couple years ago I guess and there was a huge riot where whole BMW dealer or something got burned down with all the new cars in it. But this year police were out in force and I guess there wasn't too much that happened. But we sticked to the council of members and stayed out of the city for the day. Which was fine and easy because we don't even live in the city or needed to go down there.

Well that's it to report for now. Not much to say this week. It was bank holiday yesterday so we had to email today.

Love you all,

Elder Dudgeon

2010-08-23T09:30:00.000-07:00

Hey Family and Friends

So transfers was good. I'm finally out of Halifax. 6 months was a long time. It was good and I was sad to go but also excited and ready to go. Luckily I'm not going too far haha. It was great to go to the transfer meeting for once and see all the new missionaries come in and bear their testimonies. I haven't been on the other side of it and it was really fun. Plus I got to see a lot of the other missionaries from my group that I haven't seen in a long time. It was great. It got me very excited and motivated.

Bradford though. What can I say about Bradford. It's a proper city that's for sure. I'm in Bradford one that covers the north half of the city and outlying areas. It's pretty fun. There are a lot, alot, alot, of muslims here. Like everywhere we go. Maybe that's why it's got the nick name of Bradistan. Most people are pretty nice though. It's a good area that we're in and the ward is fantastic. It's not too big but their so nice. The biggest issue we have is finding people to teach. There's not many right now. We have a lot of finding to do. But once we do find those people the ward will be ready to spring into action to help teach and fellowship. It is difficult to find people though because of transportation is not the best. We travel by bus and train but it's them coming on time or when we need them is the problem. We can work with it though. We just need better planning.

The flat is very nice as well. I have my own bathroom, that's neat. It's pretty big. Out on a main street with a pub on the other side. So on weekends it can get a bit noisy I found out. Luckily I can sleep basically through anything once I'm asleep (it's getting asleep is the problem).

My new companion is Elder Oviatt and he is very short. Haha it's great though he is such a good missionary. He's very obedient and focused but caring as well. It's the kind of companion I've been hoping for. He's from Utah so I'm back with an american.

So what's new. I had tea with a sister Brook (a different one) the first night in Bradford. I told her where I was from and she new exactly where it was. It turns out the missionary that baptized her so many years ago lives in Marysville. His name is Dick (Richard) Lester. I don't know if you know him mom. I had the address and phone number (It was weird to see a 360 number and 98271 area code), but I forgot them at the flat. But look him up in the stake directory and give him a call and tell him who you are and that your son just is serving in Bradford and just had tea with a Leslie Brook. I'm told he'll be very happy!

Not much to report more then that. I spoke in church on Sunday but just a small testimony. I'm looking forward to boost this are up and get it baptizing soon.

I miss everyone and hope their doing alright. I'm working on letters still (sorry) but keep sending please! Cheers!

Love,

Elder Dudgeon

2010-08-18T20:02:00.000-07:00

Dear Family,

Hello Family, So transfer calls came in and...... I am going to Bradford 1 with Elder Oviatt. If you want to know where Bradford is. It's just north of Halifax. The bus I take to go to our flat from town, goes up to Bradford past their flat. I'm so close. So I try to get out of Halifax and I get to take a little step. It's ok though. I'm glad to get out of Halifax. It's well needed and I'm looking forward to it. It's in the Leeds Zone now as well so new everything just not very far away.

This week went well though. SOme crazy things happened. First was when I was on exchange with one of our Zone Leaders in Halifax. We went to a chinese buffet for lunch. While we were there a man came up to us and asked if we were the missionaries for the Halifax ward, who the bishop was at the time and stuff. We find out he is an inactive member who was baptized when he was about 12 or so in 1989. So the story is this. He went on facebook one day and for some reason decided to look up the missionary who baptized him. Amazingly enough he found him and sent him a message. The next morning the missionary sent him a message back confirming he was the one who baptized him and sent him pictures of when the man was baptized. The former missionary also sent him more information to get him in touch with his companion who had confirmed the man as well as some other people. That morning was the day he saw at the restaurant. It was great. Elder Webb and I have gone to see him a couple times now. And he wants us to reteach him and his family. Also him and his girlfriend came to church on Sunday. It was great because he still knew some of the people who were still there from when he was baptized.

Also on Sunday... Jason, my recent convert, had to give a talk. Just something short bearing his testimony. Well he was really nervous. The bishop talkde to him before to interview about get the priesthood and getting advice on what to say. Well Jason got up and just gave the greatest testimony ever on how we came by and were able to answer the questions that he had. As well as he knows the Book of Mormon is because of a witness he gained through prayer. It was so good and worded very well. Later I asked him about it. I asked him if the Bishop had given him what to say or if he read it off a piece of paper because it sounded so scripted. That's me showing my lack of faith. He told me that he hadn't rehearsed anything and the only thing the bishop told him was to listen and follow the spirit. I can't believe it! It's so great. This is one of the great things about going up to Bradford because him and his family live up there for the time being so I can see them on Sunday at church! I love it.

So other things that happened. We had Zone conference last week which was really good. Our new president likes to tell a lot of stories but they're so good and have a lot of lessons within them. And the even better part is they have a lot of general authorites in them because he worked so closely to them. The main story he told was about President Hinckley when he was an apostle and was dedicating a land for the preaching of the gospel. It was really good.

So how's home going? I hear that it's been pretty hot. Here it's been pretty cold. And rainy. I didn't think England would be this cold but it is. Lousy weather. Football season is starting back up. Already. So the drunks are coming back out from the short break at the world cup. That's always fun. They call me Elder Dungeon Master. How's home going. Glad that Aunt Anna came over this last weekend and all that. I miss everyone from home. So how's it been with Brad? Is he still there? Hello Brad . Haha. I can't wait to get a letter from Dad. I'm still working on his and I got a couple pictures to send him as well that he'll love. It goes with the Walls of Jericho bit hahaha! I can't believe Fono got his mission call! That's so great! I miss him. Ben Wilcox emails me now and I write letters in response. He's preping for his mission. He reports the in October I think. It's way good. I'm waiting for letters though from people other then family and whitney and carrie. Oh well I love getting anything.

So I'm sending some pictures with this. Some of me and my trainer at a mission home fireside as well as some of me and a couple investigators. Theres a picture of me eating a baby jabenero pepper (I don't know how to spell it.) but ya. Super hot. It was fun to do though. Their both really good guys and we wanted to have some fun before I left. There's a video of me as well but I don't think i can send them over email. It's pretty funny. I'm sad to go but happy as well.

Well I got to go. I love you though. I know the gospel is true. Till next week.

Cheers,

£ld£r 'Dung£on Mast£r' Dudg£on

Happy 4th of July

2010-07-06T07:48:00.000-07:00

Hello family!

I miss all you guys. Your emails this week are great to hear. I miss you all so much! This last week has been fantastic. My companion and I have been working really hard and guess what?! Jason got baptized on Saturday! It was a great service. We had quite a few members of the ward there as well as all the new bishopric. As well as Jason's family and his girlfriend and her family were able to come out and show their support. They really enjoyed it. Jason's girlfriend and mom have been looking into the church as well. It's great. The confirmation went well on Sunday as well. Most of Jason's family was able to make it. I was asked to do it and I was so nervous. I calmed down quite a bit before though but when I started saying the prayer thet spirit was just overwhelming. I started shaking. Yesterday we saw Jason and were talking about it and he asked me who was shaking the whole time! It was funny. I'll send pictures soon

We also got to meet our new mission President on saturday before the baptism. It was pretty neat to see other missionaries and get to meet President Lindley. He seems pretty neat and fun but not the same as President Stock. President Stock was amazing. President Lindley used to be in church security and was body guards to several prophets and apostles and has been on trips with them all around the world so it will be interesting to here some stories and what he knows. NOt much I can write about about because he would prefer that these stories about general authorities be circulated around the church through the internet.

My companion leaves soon. Wednesday is transfers and thats when he goes into the mission office and stays at the mission home then flies out the next day. My new companion will be Elder Webb. He's an english bloke. We'll see how things go with him. And yes I'm still in Halifax. It's ok. It's getting way better. And I enjoy the zone I'm in. And so by the way. My P-Day is today, Tuesday. Because of transfers so don't worry everyone if you sent an email late because of the week end. I got it.

The fourth of July went by with no big surprises. No fireworks or anything. Kind of boring. Except for the part where I almost died. (Sorry mom this is the part where you can't read since I'm sending this to all 3 of you.) So Devin, Myranda, ya I almost died. (Mom stop reading!) So we had a tea appointment with these elderly couple from the ward on Sunday. They were giving us a lift to our next appointment. We were almost there driving through a more industrious part of Halifax called Pellon. It's where there are a lot of Muslims and eastern europeans. Anyways we turn at a light when all of a sudden the sister driving us puts her head down. Then she started falling over towards her husband in the passenger seat. Basically she passed out at the wheel. I grabbed her and the wheel but by then it was too late and we jumped the curb and start going for a brick wall. Luckily her husband thought quick and pulled the hand brake and stopped us! He then shook her and she woke up like nothing had happened. The even greater blessing is there was a car behind us who saw it all and it ended up being a nurse who was on her way to work just around the corner. So ya that was pretty scary. The sister is fine though we heard and nothing to worry about.

(OK mom you can read again)

Other then that things have been good. Ever since England and the US lost things have been getting better. \it was ridiculous though because even at church thats all that was talked about. Lessons lost the spirit because of people jsut talking and joking about it. Prayers were said about the world cup and just ridiculous things. I'm glad it's over. Oh it was funny because the very next day that England lost all the flags and banners were gone. England is terrible with patriotism.

Well tomorrows my brithday. I'm pretty excited. I got one package so far. Some members in the ward gave me a gift though. It was a box of cereal call Kellogs Crunchy Nuts. Their like cornflakes but with a brown sugar, peanutty, honey glaze. I haven't seen them in the states and their are so good. They got a pretty good unique taste to them. I'll bring some home.

Well I love you guys. I miss everyone. Hope everyone had a good 4th! I miss all the food and fireworks. Talk to you all next week. Cheerio!

Love,

Elder Dudgeon

2010-06-28T06:50:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!
This week has been so tough but the blessings are coming. My companion and I were blessed to get 10 investigators at church as well as to have one of the people we are teaching, Jasom, have his interview for baptism. He is getting baptized on the 3rd of July and confirmed the 4th of July! We are so excited and stressed as well. He has come a long way to get baptized including quitting smoking and moving out of his apartment where he lived with his girlfriend. Now thats dedication! He is so excited to be baptized and invited all his family to come.
Other then that we are working really hard to get more and more people to church and to schedule for baptism. I should be staying another transfer in Halifax because my companion is going home in less then 2 weeks. He's served his 2 years very well and I'm glad I got to serve the last 3 months with him.
Thanks for everyones prayers and letters! I'm looking forward to hear from everyone on my birthday. July 7th!
Cheers!

Elder Dudgeon

2010-05-25T07:41:00.000-07:00

Hello how's things going? Things here are going well. I'm learning a lot from my companion Elder D. Hansen, and the good news is we got transfer calls last night and...... we're staying together in Halifax for his last transfer! I'm happy because that means I get to kill someone off (haha) and also because he's a great missionary and we work really well together. The only down side is that this means I'll stay in Halifax for another transfer after because I'll be the only one who knows the area. Thats 4 transfers, about 6 months in Halifax, 1/4 of my mission in my greeny area. Crazy.

The work here is moving slow and hard but it should be picking up. We're teaching a few couples right now that are having to over come chastity issues to get baptized but they really seem like they want to which is great. We're are working hard to find new people everyday and I'm really getting better at talking to everyone which is somehting I've struggled with.

It's been hot the past few days. In about the 24 to 28's. Thats celsius by the way. So we've been going without our jackets which has been nice. Today for P-Day of course its raining. Sad! The weather has been great though because more people are out and about and usually in a better mood. Unless there's football on. Haha! I'm nervous for when the world cup comes around and how well people will pay attention or care. For instance last night England played a friendly against Mexico before the world cup and we were knocking doors during it. More then half the people told us to get lost because they were watching the game. I do love futbol or football or soccer but beware of worshipping false idols haha.

I hope things are going well for everyone. I miss everyone back at home. Things are great here. It's hard but theres no other place and nothing I'd rather be doing then this. I know it's true and that the gospel is living. I see it everyday in my life here and in the lives of people who start woeking and seeking after it. It's hard to explain the power or feeling we get from prayer and from faith but that does not mean it's nothing or that it's deniable. It means we have to work harder to seek after it, strengthen it and understand it. I know the gospel of Jesus Christ is the living gospel, the only true gospel, and it's fullness is found in this church.

I love everyone,

Cheerio

Elder Dudgeon

2010-04-20T07:41:00.000-07:00

Hello from Hali!
Hey everyone! How's it going? So transfer call came in last night and....drumroll.... I'm staying in Halifax but I will have a new companion, Elder D. Hansen (there's like 4 elder hansens in the mission). I hear he is a great missionary so I am excited.

We've been working hard to get investigators to church on Sunday and finally we were blessed with not 1, not 2 but 5 investigators at church. That was more then a quarter of the zones for the week. It was good they all really liked it. There is a young couple who came. The guy doesn't really have a belief in God but we had a great lesson on prayer in the Elders Quorum and he really liked it. We showed them around the church afterwards and they said they wanted to come again next week! Hurray! We see them again tomorrow and hopefully they will start praying soon and be getting some answers to their prayers.

Last week was an extraordinary week. I went on a few exchanges because my companion is district leader. During one of the exchanges we decided to focus on a prayer a lot. We prayed all day wherever we went and we blessed to find people to talk to. We went to this one area to knock that we had prayed about. We didn't have the chance to because everyone we had talked to on the street was great and listened. When it got later after our tea appointment (dinner appointment), We had a little less then an hour. We weren't sure to do so my companion for the day Elder Laine, said lets pray again and pray so we can reach our goals that we had set for the day, So I said a prayer that we would know what to do so we could reach our goal, which was to find 2 more investigators so we would have 4 for the day. Well afterwards we both felt like to start walking to the flat (we were in Town Centre which is empty at night) and just talk to everyone we see. Before we even got around the corner we met a couple who we spoke to, Shared a lessona nd got a return appointment. We said a prayer right there with them and boom! Our 2 new investigators! It was great.
Another time was the next day. Me and my normal companion, Elder Eggleston were leaving the flat in the morning to go street contacting. I got the distinct impression to walk down to Town Centre instead of taking the bus which was only a minute away. So we walked down instead. As we did we found 1 new investigator and we ran into an old investigator who we had not been able to get a hold of for quite awhile. We were able to talk to her and see how she was doing, hopefully we will be able to see her again soon.
Things have been great in Halifax. We had 5 investigators at church this week. A young couple who are really nice and are going to come again next week. The guy doesn't have a belief in God yet but he feels there something there. He really enjoyed the more discussion type format that our Elders Quorum and Gospel Principles classes are.
As far as me, I'm doing fine. Really getting into the work and getting excited. Not gaining any weight yet. Still not able to go running but we have the bench in the flat still and so I work out every morning. Hopefully my new companion will go running with me. Oh and we are no longer in a 4 man flat. The other 2 elders moved out and went to other places so Halifax is down to 2 Missionaries again.
Thanks for everyones support and letters. If you sent any recently I won't get it for awhile due to the volcano in Iceland and planes not being able to fly. Darn. So boring here without post. But I love everyone! Cheers!

Elder Dudgeon

Happy Easter

2010-04-06T07:43:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!

Happy late Easter. How was everyones? Ours was good because of conference all weekend but just not the same with out a big family dinner. Wish I could have been there. But we've had an ok week. We didn't get to see the last Session on Sunday because of time difference. Also none of our Investigators came out so we were pretty bummed about that. But we're printing out talks today and bringing them by so that they can still read them.
We didn't get to email yesterday because it was a bank holiday. But they allowed us an hour this morning so sorry about that. Yesterday for P-Day we played some football. Like real football. We found an actual full sized pitch to play on and the rain held off. So with almost all the missionaries in the zone plus a few members we had a full game going. I played goalie for a third of the time and did well. Then the rest of the time I was just playing mid. It was so much fun, but now I'm really sore. It's all good though becuse I've been working out and stuff every morning like the white handbook says to and it makes me less sore. I recover a lot quicker.
On the spiritual side of things, we found a couple good solid investigators this last week that we will be seeing this week. One we met while walking up to our flat for lunch. We were street contacting in town and were finishing up. We had the choice to walk back up or to take the bus like we usually do. I felt like walking so we could keep talking to people. And thats when we ran into a guy named Mark who already has a Book of Mormon and said he had been feeling like reading and getting into it more.
The other one is a man we knocked into named Jock (yes Jock). He's an older man but very smart. He likes to learn things and study things. He grew up Catholic and is very confused about his feelings of God because of the things he and his family has experienced growing up. He had lots of questions for us. I prayed in my had to give him answers because at the time I only had a Book of Mormon that we give to people. So it's not marked. He asked like 3-4 big questions and each one a scripture just sort've popped out at me that was a perfect answer. We gave him that Book of Mormon and we commited him to read it. We should be seeing him tomorrow (Wednesday), and see how it's been going.
A third one is a man we've been teaching. We've seen him a few times. We taught him the restoration and the plan of salvation and he's liking it all. Says it makes sense to him. We even committed him to pray about things, about anything. He's started to pray a lot he says at work. He works at a machine shop and he says it has been very stressful for him because of quotas and deadlines they face from the buyers. But after he started praying they have been meeting their deadlines and the quality of the work has really impressed the buyers. In our last lesson he started bring up issues like gmabling, drinking, smoking, tea and coffee, and chastity. Things we never had talked about to him before. He says he is not ready or able to get married right now because he does have a partner (a partner here is a girlfriend who's basically their wife just not legally). He was asking if he could go to church even with that problem and we were so happy to tell him yes. So hopefully this Sunday we will get him out to church. We have another appointment with him this Friday.
This week should be a good week. Hopefully we have a baptism scheduled by the end of the transfer which is in 2 weeks. I'll probably be staying here in Halifax and be getting a new companion. We'll see though. I miss you all and thank you to everyone who has sent me letters. Keep sending, I love post! And Pictures too!
Cheers,

Elder Dudgeon

2010-03-22T06:52:00.001-07:00

Hello from HALI!

Good ol' rainy England! I've realized how lucky I've been to have sun for the beginning of the mission. The other day we went to town centre in the morning and did some street contacting. Thing is it was raining the whole time. I had my rain coat and an umbrella so when talking to people I'd stand in the rain and hold the umbrella over them and tell them about the gospel. We found a couple people that were interested and willing to listen but no return appointments. We only did it for a couple hours but by the time we came in for lunch we were soaked. But I didn't care I enjoyed doing the work. Thank you to all those who think or pray about the missionaries and continue to pray for miracles!
I had to speak in the ward on Sunday. Just introducing who I am and things like that. I gave a short talk on missionary work and why I'm excited to take up the call and then extended it out to everyone. I focused on the verses in the Book of Mormon in Alma 36:19-20, 24-25; then in Doctreine and Covenants 88:81. I bore my testimony at the end. It felt like a good talk and my companion and the other elders agreed.
We've been teaching a few people lately but no one solid enough for a baptismal date. So I keep studying and praying for those miracles. We have one person who we're teaching with his cousin. He's going through a rough time in his life, sort of a mid life crisis. But we've shared the restoration and plan of salvation with him and it's really making him think. He says it makes sense. The only problem he has is with praying. He just uncomfortable with it. Feels it's silly, but we're gunna keep teaching him and praying with him so hopefully soon he'll be find an answer.
Well I got to go now. Hope everyone is doing well. I sent out a lot of letters today so hopefully people will be getting them soon. I'll be sending home some pictures next week too. I forgot my camera today. Till then I pray for everyone's health and safety.

Sincerely,

£ld£r Dudg£on

Hi from Hali

2010-03-15T21:19:00.000-07:00

Dear family and friends,
Finally out of the MTC. I loved it but it was driving me crazy at the end. My companinon was really getting on my nerves but thats fine. So we had our big transfer meeting and my new companion, trainer, and mission dad is Elder Eggleston! We're in the Huddersfield Zone in a city called HALIFAX! So welcome to Hali (like cali but not). It's an amazing looking town. Beautifuly buildings and country side. It's some what south of Leeds. I'm not sure exactly. We're in a flat with 2 other missionaries, Elder Liane (pronunced Line-uh) from Finland and Elder Czirbon (pronounce Serbon) from Utah. They're all great guys and pretty good missionaries.

This first half week I have just been getting shown the ropes to proselyting and contacting people. We have serveral investigators already, a few who could be baptized within a month. The people here are pretty good. Most people stick to them selves though. Nobody knows their neighbors and says anything to anyone, and most people are just completely lazy. Due to the goverment having universal health care and goverment housing (which a lot of people live in) there's not much reason to work so a lot of people work maybe 15 hours a week, sit at home and watch tv, smoke, drink, party and clubbing and have sex. There are so many young teenaged single mothers it's ridiculous. There's not much incentive to work or do anything though. Everyone smokes from the age of 10 basically and drinking isn't far behind. So as you can probably tell there is a lot of work to be done.

We went to church yesterday and I got to meet the one ward for this city which has got to be the size of Everett. The one word I can describe it is pathetic. There is some good people there but the ward really needs to step up. I feel like it's gunna be one of my biggest priorities while I'm here to get the ward into shape. We have to get the ward into doing missionary work. We get no referals for anyone. They have quite a bit of success here, baptizing people and keeping them at church but thats just due to the missionaries finding people. The elders quorum lesson we had yesterday was basically teaching us missionaries how to be missionaries. Not very good. But I remain hopeful. The ward has good people, and the missionary work here could thrive if the members got more involved. The lord prepares people to receive the gospel. He prepares them with the members of the ward talking to their friends and neighbors. So I am asking for some advice for all who read this to write me. I know the old Marysville 6th ward has done well with missionary work. I know that they have set goals in the stake for everyone to bring a member. Finding opportunities to invite non members. Thats what I want for this ward.
I'm so excited to do this work. I can't believe that this week I'll have already been gone a month. The time is going to go really fast. Please write to me though. I haven't gotten much post from anyone and I would love to here from people.

Elder Blaine Dudgeon

week 3 transfer time

2010-03-09T23:16:00.000-08:00

So they are letting us email tonight instead of tomorrow because we won't be able to due to transfers. I'll be heading out to the mission home tomorrow and being assigned to my trainer. I'm very excited to get out of the MTC. The time here has been great but for the past couple days I felt held back. I feel that it's time to grow more. Thanks for emailing me write back though. Glad to have gotten mail. JK.
This last week did go well though. Went tracting through Chorley for a few hours and and we actually found a girl who let us teach the first lesson to her and give her a BOok of Mormon. We asked her to attend church on sunday and meet the missionaries assigned to her area, but we don't know if she did. The chat sessions that we have been doing have been going really great. We helped a couple inactive people feel good and hopefully start going back to church.
I've mastered my testimony in german as well as some other phrases. On sunday I bore my testimony in German and Elder Wilde, the elder in my room who has been teaching me, bore his in english. It was a great testimony and felt good. I hope to keep in contact with him. Also sister Hecht, as german sister missionary who I've become friends with here, gave me her german hymn book. I almost cried when she gave it to me and I wish I could have hugged her. She marked her favorite songs for me. I hope you send me a german english dictionary for me whenever you send a package, as well as german book of mormon.
Please give sister randall my favorite scripture for the plack Alma 36:23-25. It's a good one I've come connected to here. And it's shorter then John chapter 15.
Well it'll be another week till I can here from you guys. Hope all is going well. Hope you got my adress fixed and stuff.
Till next week peace,

£ld£r Blain£ Dudg£on

week 2 Preston MTC

2010-03-08T09:33:00.000-08:00

Hey family,

Things are going fine here. Just busy busy busy every day. Same old work but its still as great and amazing the first day. Food is fine, companion is alright. England is great it's just like home except older buildings and people drive on the other side of the road. Language here is fine. I said last time that I am already picking up the accent. I'm also taken it upon myself to learn german because we have 2 german Elders in our room. They can speak english pretty good but I find it fun to learn German. I've gotten my whole testiomny down, how to say it, write it and stuff. It's pretty cool. I might have you send me a german-engllish dictionary so I can work on it while over here. I might even try and learn it when I get home. But thats a ways away.

So we went into Manchester last week. It was good but I was nervous because last minute they switched my district around and gave us some of the german elders as companions. So I was left with an elder, Elder Franke, who didn't speak any english nor wanted to. I was left trying to carry him around while talking to people about the church. It did go well though. Was able to talk to a couple people, gave a pass along card here and there. But I was praying the whole time for a guy who could speak german and the next guy I talked to spoke a little bit, but Elder Franke didn't speak up at all. I was a little frustrated with him after that. I was hoping for a good experience though and thankfully right before we left to go back to the MTC, we were inside the train station when we saw a guy who kept staring at us. Well finally we approached eachother at the same time it was quite funny. His name was James and he had seen us missionaries all around Manchester that day and finally decided to ask what it was about the same time we approached him. He had heard of the church before. I was able to tell him a little bit and give him a Book of Mormon. He wasn't from Manchester unfortunately but we gave hima way to get in contact with the missionaries there so I hope he finds them. He was very nice and very genuine so I hope we helped and made a difference for him. I got less frustrated with Elder Franke after we got back to the MTC because The next morning he was gone. Sent home. I don't know why but it helped me see how important being unified with your companion is.

Couple other things we've been doing here is a chat system. People can get on a ask question over an IM system and we are there to answer. Elder Felton and I have had a few good contacts and are keeping email with some of them while they take the lessons from the missionaries in their area. It's great to see or at least about it helping people. Also a little frustrating because people get on there to mess around or just argue. We get to excersise 3 days a week including P-Day. They usually play volleyball or football and it gets really boring because people aren't very good at volleyball and theres just too many people for football. And nobody dares play me in basketball. I'm the tallest one here. And theres not very many of us.

Glad to here your trip is going fine and that you were still able to email me. Everyone has gotten letters here except for me so I was a little worried. If I hadn't gotten an email I would've thought something was wrong. Glad you were able to post things up on the blog. Hopefully I can here from you next week, its when I go out into the field. We'll see though.

HAve fun in Honduras,

Sincerely,

Elder Dudgeon

Week 1 Preston England MTC

2010-02-24T10:27:00.000-08:00

Hello Family,
How's things going at home? Thanks for all the letters you've sent. NOT. Day 6 here in the MTC. Things are going great. The trip over was fine once you guys left me at the airport. Thanks for not making it awkward, NOT. Right after security though I met a young member named Art from the church. He saw my badge and was asking me where I was going. It was nice to talk to him though. He got converted when he was 21 and went on a mission when he was 23. He told me what I was doing the right thing which made me feel great.

Landed in ATL and went straight to the next gate where I would be waiting to connect to Manchester. A couple other missionaries were there already. Elder Peery and Elder Alsop. Couple great guys. Elder Alsop is in my district here. But for the next few hours more and more missionaries would be coming over till there was about 15 of us or more waiting there for the plane. It was really cool. PLay ride over was really long, kinda sore and boring. Talked to the guy next to me though for quite awhile about sports, mainly football (and I mean soccer, from now on when I mention football I mean soocer. I will specify American Football). So we got here and got to meet our companies. England by the way does look exactly like the northwest. Just with less big sicites so close together and the cars are on the opposite side of the road.

The MTC here is pretty small. I didn't realize how small. Theres about 30 to 40 missionaries here and thats it. Including a district of Elders from Germany who speak only german. My companion I got on the first night is Elder Felton. He's a small chap from Lowestoft, England. He's got a good accent but I understand fine. He's really short. Maybe 5'6''. We're total opposites like that. He is very fun though and has a lot of energy. Other guys in my district are from either England the U.S. or South Africa. The guy from South Africa is really cool though. Really nice and proper. In our room though, Elder Felton and I have a german companionship that don't speak really any english. We can communicate a little bit so it's good but interesting.

So we had the weekend of getting to know what the MTC is all about this last weekend and this week. It's a lot of hard work. Mostly in classes or meetings. We wake up at 630, go to bed at 1030 and I just pass out. The food here is fine. Nothing to complain about. Had a few english dishes which were good. All the staff and presidency here are amazing though. They really bring the spirit and are dedicated to helping us learn how to teach. Which by the way starts tomorrow. We've been doing practice teaching all week and tomorrow we get to go into Manchester and do some street contacting. Sort of a baptism by fire if you will. We're are the only MTC to do that which is great. I am really excited to go out and teach though. It seems fun and exciting and it's the good work that needs to be done. Other things that we have done... We went to the temple today which was great. The MTC, stake center, distribution center, and other staffing buildings are all on the temple grounds. The grounds are amazing and beautiful and so is the Preston temple. Which is only a minute walk away. I also talked to the staff and presidency about Ryan Lemmon because he went through last summer and is in the London South and they remembered him and said that he is a wonderful missionary so pass that along to his parents.
Other things, I could use some letters I haven't gotten any mail from anyone.

I hope all is well. Things are going great here. Nothing to worry about. I actually don't care about TV or movies or sports anymore. They don't really cross my mind during the day at all. Hope the trip to Honduras goes well. We get to write every Wednesday jsut so you know if you want to be on during that time and email back and forth. let me know.

Love,

Your son lol,

Elder Blaine Dudgeon

Farewell Talk

2010-02-16T01:59:00.000-08:00

Do to so many people commenting on my talk I decided to upload it here before I left. I added some of the notes I had made and a couple other small pieces as well as corrections. Thank you all who were able to come and hear it Sunday. Thank you everyone for your continuing support

__________________________________________________________________________________

Good afternoon, brothers and sisters. It is wonderful privilege to be here today in front of family and close friends. Good to see most of the old ward stuck together. As was said, I am getting ready to leave this week to serve a mission in Leeds England. If you don’t know where that is, it’s almost smack dab in the middle of England. The area my mission covers basically goes from Leeds, out to the east coast and up to the border of Scotland. I’m reporting directly to the MTC over there. It’s been very exciting time as well as stressful and nerve racking. I am looking forward to closing this chapter of my life and starting a new one, as well as the new experiences i will have and having the opportunity to help people.

It took me awhile to figure out what I wanted to say today. The topic given to me to speak on was how a testimony of the restored gospel and its principles can better our lives. I thought this was great for me to speak on during a time when I have been questioning my own testimony and its strength. Well not knowing what to say I prayed and meditated and reflected on my life and have decided that the best way to express my feelings on testimonies is to tell you my own personal conversion story and the growth of my testimony of God and Jesus Christ, and this gospel. And as I do this I wish to invite you all think back to your lives. Think of you own conversion and personal testimonies of God and his son.

I can be honest in saying I didn’t always wanted to serve a mission. It wasn’t until a couple years ago that I seriously decided that I wanted to and needed to go on a mission. There was a change that was brought about, and that after looking back and reflecting I can see pieces of my life fitting together into curious patterns that make my conversion story and testimony. Since then I know that God had and has a plan for me as he does for all of us.

When writing this talk the first piece that I saw fit was when I was very small; I grew up in the church. I was taken to church week by my mother for my dad is not a member. He has his own beliefs which I respect, and I am thankful that he still believes in God and the savior for it made growing up in my house, though it didn’t seem at the time, easier and a blessing. We were fortunate to have God in our home while I was growing up. I remember my mom teaching me to pray when I was a small boy before bed and saying prayers before meals. As I think and look back, my family was always taken care of or looked after. Even through hard struggling times.

The second piece I could see was my baptism. I was baptized like most people who grow up in the church at the age of 8. It was done by my brother just before he left on his mission. I am extremely grateful that he could do it because of the bond that it has created between us. I don‘t remember all of my baptism very well. I don’t know who spoke or the songs or anything, but for two things that I can never forget. The first was when it was time to go into the font. I got very upset. I was nervous and unsure of what was going on. I think the only other baptism I had been to was my sister’s which I do not remember at all. I remember at that time wishing and hoping for someone to come help me. Well since we did not head out into the font someone came out to see what was wrong. That person was Bishop Thomas. , though he wasn’t bishop at that time. He was able to get my mother for me which I was extremely grateful for and relieved. . I do not remember anything that my mother said to me but afterwards, still nervous I was able to go with my brother and be baptized. The only other part I remember is the feeling I got when getting out. A warm burning sensation of the spirit though I did not recognize it at the time. I associate this feeling similar to the burning feeling I get when standing up for something that I know is true.

The third piece is when I got older, turned 12 and became a deacon I received the Aaronic priesthood. Once again a nervous feeling came to me when it was my time to pass the sacrament. It was the same feeling I felt when I was 8. But I got through it finally with some help. And I felt a new sensation. It was warm like before but less intense. It was a more calming feeling. They same feeling would come back each week as I had to pass the sacrament. It would calm my nerves and allow me to pass reverently. I think then was the first time I started to recognize the spirit. But unfortunately it didn’t last.

The fourth piece is the turn for the worse. Sadly after being a deacon, things went steadily down hill. The church started to disinterest me. I started blaming the church unjustly for personal issues that I had. With the start of things like early morning seminary, and me not being a morning person, budded heads with lots of peers and teachers. Just ask some of my young men advisors. I could have quite the attitude. I started questioning a lot of the church. How could Joseph had done all that happened? Why would God appear to him? How is the church today true? I stopped caring about the church in my anger and did not seek answers. I had forgotten the feelings of before. I had plugged my spiritual ears, closed me eyes and could no longer hear the Holy Ghost or see God in my life. It would be a back and forth struggle and choosing the right or the wrong with casualties in the form of friends and family.

The piece is when I was 17 and a true change happened. I was called into the bishop’s office one Sunday with some other boys. This was when the bishop was Bishop Kent. He wanted to talk to us about our behavior and attitudes in seminary for which we all distasted. He kept me back after the little meeting. I do not remember the exact reason why, I think it was to extend a calling or something. But at one point the stopped, and the only thing I remember him saying in a calm concerned voice was, “Blaine is there something wrong? You seem unhappy.” And I knew he was not the only person there that was asking that question. I was asking the same question to myself and the spirit was there asking me too. It was there with a new feeling. A feeling of deep concern and love like a parent has for a lost child. It was not angry. Unfortunately at the time I lied. I told him things were fine, and shortly left after that I left. But what he said and what I felt stuck with me. Well a couple weeks later after thinking about how I felt, my issues and problems, what I had been doing, the true reason for my despair and what I should be doing. I could see how dumb I was being kicking against the pricks. I just couldn’t take it. When we put the weight of sin from our lives on our backs, without the support of God and the gospel and repentance things become really heavy. As time passes we may even become numb to the weight. Life can get worse when we keep adding more and more weight into our lives. Well, after a couple of weeks I couldn’t take it anymore. I meant with the bishop again and this time told him the truth. I had an overwhelming rush of the spirit after during that meeting. So much that I broke down. The burden was lifted. Such a feeling of joy filled me and would not leave and I beckoned it to stay as long as it could.

Well after that was when things changed. I started listen again. I read the Book of Mormon all the way through including the Doctrine and Covenants. With each chapter, each page, it was something new. I made connections with the people of the Book of Mormon. As I thought and pondered about Joseph Smith I could feel a connection. A connection that I feel every young man should find. He was a young man just like all of us were, but he looked for answers sincerely and humbly. And if God could help me, I know that he would have helped him.

After that I continued to stay strong. I attended school at BYU-Idaho, which was a great place for me at the time. It was a safe environment to allow my spirit and understanding to grow. I did what was right, listened to the spirit and prepared to serve a mission. Every time I would face trials I would do so with God in my heart. And there have several times since that I have had the old nervous feeling but I face it with new perspective and with the spirit.

Brothers and Sisters, I want to tie these pieces together with an analogy of one of my favorite things to do, hiking. Sometimes we can go hiking through the woods on a trail. It’s very easy to be enticed to wonder off the trail. Good be to take a picture, get a better view, find a shortcut, chase a small woodland creature. Whatever it is we lose sight of our destination. There are so many dangers off the trail that we do not see and before we know it we become lost. But even if we get lost we have been provided the tools to find our way back. And for those who really need it, the people, search parties with their hands extended saying “it‘s ok, we‘re here to help“. We all know the tools. They are the spirit, scriptures, prayer, the restored gospel, and the living leaders, apostles and prophets we have today. It is using the tools given to us that strengthen our testimonies. And it is the strength of our testimonies that keep us on our paths.

When writing this talk and preparing to serve, I started to see all these pieces fit together through God’s plan. I can see that my testimony has been growing ever since the start. From the beginning God and the Savior were in my life, my home, and family. They were and are my foundation. Like the first Article of Faith says “We believe in God the Eternal father and in his son and in the Holy Ghost.” I had learned the basics of prayer and scripture study and knew them by heart. It provided a good home and environment to grow up in. My testimony increased more as I made my baptismal covenants and received the Holy Ghost. My awareness of the spirit grew. As I accepted the priesthood it increased my understanding of the spirit. I was tested with my tools in hand, but ignored them and became lost. But God did not give up. He blessed me with the people in my life that never gave up trying to help me straight. They helped my testimony grow from love and repentance. Brothers and sisters our testimonies should continue to grow over time. It is through our trials that we really begin to know what is true. It may not be a ‘know’ where we have facts or it can be explained, but is something that we continue to experience all the time that cannot be denied.

My conversion and gaining of a testimony has been a process spread over a long time as all should. Our testimonies should never stop and are never done. Now I hope that you have been thinking of your own conversion and testimony because you will understand that I cannot explain all of how a testimony can better our lives. The blessings are limitless. They can be as small as making a bad day better. To giving someone hope is this confusing crazy world we live in. To as big as taking someone from the pits of despair or the mist of darkness, even worse then I was, and put them standing here today ready and willing to serve with such eagerness and excitement. I invite you to take time to think of when God was there for you. Think of blessings you have received that maybe have gone unnoticed or forgotten. And be apart of the search parties and share it with someone. It is the best way to better your life.

I leave these words and a sincere long goodbye with my testimony, that I know this church is true, I know God lives and that he loves all. That he sent his son who willingly died for our sins that we might return to God some day. I know that Joseph Smith son the father and the son as boy in the grove. And that through him the true Gospel was restored to this Earth. I testify of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon, that it was translated by Joseph Smith. I testify that the statement in the introduction of the Book of Mormon that says, “We invite all men to read the Book of Mormon, to ponder in their hearts the message it contains, and then ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ is the book is true. Those who pursue this course and ask in faith will gain a testimony of its truth and divinity by the power of the holy ghost.” is true and simple. I know that we are led today by living authorities, apostles and prophet today. I know that God is always there for us. And I say these things humbly in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

One Week

2010-02-12T01:51:00.000-08:00

It is the time now. Only a week left until I leave for England. It has been a hard but exciting time. It has taken a little longer to get going but well worth it. I have refreshed this blog. Gotten rid of old posts, changed pictures, and added new information. My wish is to change the feeling of this blog to being more respectable, humble, and deeper and not just the rants of a teenage boy. This is the best way for people to keep in touch with what I am doing. My time to write letters will be limited but will do my best to write those that write me. And if you are unfamiliar with LDS missions, I cannot bring my cellphone, I cannot call, nor facebook, or blog. So this will be my last post on here. After this, someone from my family will post updates that I send home in letters or emails for all to read.

So my final week is this... Finish packing, finish talk, have big dinner with the family, speak at church, open house, say last goodbyes, make sure all affairs are in order, be set apart, and finally go to airport and get on a plane.

There are so many thoughts going through my head as well as fears and stresses. But I am proud and happy to say that I feel ready. There are still a few bags left to pack but that is all physical things. I have felt an assurance deep inside me, telling me that I am ready. And it is thanks to my family, friends, and God for bringing me to this moment in my life. None of them ever gave up on me even when I might have given up on them. I bear testimony and witness of the truthfulness of God and his son Jesus Christ. I know that the Church of Jesus Christ is the true church and is the restored gospel. I know that the Book of Mormon is true, and that Joseph Smith Jr. was a prophet of God and translated the Book of Mormon. It has taken me many years to know these things are true and will take more to know the full capacity of all there is to understand. I look forward to serving people. I cannot wait to hear from all of you and to write back. Thank you for all your support.

Elder Blaine Chad Dudgeon

Brand New Blogger

2009-03-23T10:53:00.000-07:00

So I finally gave in to blogging just like every other really cool person. What is the reason for doing all this? Mainly because I want there to be a way for friends and family to be able to see how I am doing on my church mission while I am gone, but also to show how I am getting prepared and ready to go.

I am planning on going on a mission for my church this summer near the end of July and beginning of August. I have not started my papers yet because I am currently in college at BYU-Idaho. When I return home at the end of the semester I will start on my papers and hopefully can have them turned in by May. So every now and then I will update this blog with my preparations and just events from my life. I hope you enjoy this.