tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60699032552687432032024-03-13T23:05:44.523-07:00Elder James A. CoxMexico Tampico Mission
April 2011-13Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.comBlogger72125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-81479994460184724922013-03-25T12:41:00.001-07:002013-03-25T12:50:18.558-07:00Elder Cox's Final Letter From Gonzalez and From Mexico<br />
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Dear Family and Friends,</div>
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What more can I say than what Paul said in 2 Timothy 4 that the time is now at hand. He peleado la buena batalla, he acabado la carrera, he guardado la fe. </div>
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I wish none other than to say at the end: Lord, like my shoes, I wish to be used and worn out in the service of my God. So that at the last and final day I might say the words that Paul said. And here are the words: Ye have done well my good and faithful servent. </div>
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This is not the end, but yet the beginning for me. I am not ending anything, but beginnig to build upon what I have learned and acquired. Now is the time to apply and do. </div>
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I love you all. See you soon. </div>
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Elder James Cox </div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-1090191736717022552013-03-19T07:25:00.002-07:002013-03-19T07:25:52.798-07:00Elder Cox'x Sixth Letter From Aldama and Gonzalez<br />
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Dear family and friends,</div>
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Another week has come and gone. I was just thinking last Monday, I know that very soon I´ll be right back here writing my family. It seems like the weeks go by faster and faster. It's true, somedays go by very slow, and you just can´t wait to have the day over. But the truth is, the weeks fly by, and I feel like I blink and it's over. Time does not wait for anyone.</div>
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We had a relatively good week. It went by so fast I can't barely (Editor's note: don't you just love those double negatives..:) remember what we did. haha. We had some great lessons.</div>
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Right now as a mission we are focusing a lot on the reactivation of less active members. As a mission last week we had almost 600 less actives attend church. And it keeps going up. We are seeing great growth here. Pres Jordan wrote all the missionaries and told us that a stake president shared with him some very pleasant news as to what the missionaries are doing here. he said Thanks for all the work that we are doing. He has called a new bishop and 2 new counsilors that were all inactive. He said that ward is finally starting to take form once more. We have seen great growth here. Three month ago there was an assistance of about 12 to 15 people. Last Sunday we had 43 people. Our little sacrament meeting was packed. :) 70 percent were less actives. The work of the Lord is going forth boldly and to every nation. It is growing so fast here. I see how the Lord's hand is in this work. We are having more and more missionaries come into the missions, and seeing more and more members coming back. Truely the greatest time to live is in this age. I'm so thankful to my Father in Heaven for letting me stay here for these 3 extra months. I've been able to be a part of a work far bigger and greater than me.</div>
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A few weeks ago the first counselor was very worried about how he was going to be able to help the the single mothers and part families that need to be self sufficient. How he was going to help them to find work to provide for their families. I suggested that they start a vegetable garden with some fruit trees. He thought about it and took it up with the branch president. We got the a okay and today we started the garden. Sadly what I thought would happen came to pass. Nobody showed up to prepare the dirt (Editor's note: that old Little Red Hen Syndrome:). We had the young man of the branch, my companion and I hacking and hoeing at the dirt all day. We finally finished and planted the seeds. Now we will see if the members come to help with the watering and weeding... well I don't think I will be here to see the final project, but it's the thought that counts. I hope they send me pics when it all turns out.</div>
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Well that's about it. I'm working hard and happy. :)</div>
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Elder Cox</div>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-29886054072556041852013-03-18T07:34:00.002-07:002013-03-18T07:36:12.275-07:00Elder Cox's Fifth Letter From Aldama and Gonzalez<br />
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Hello friends and family,</div>
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I'm sitting here on the computer in Gonzalez thinking, what do I write? I have the whole week to think about that, and I come up with a few things that I would like to write but, then when I get on the computer, I forget everything. :( </div>
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Today is a beautiful day. A little warm, but in the shade, the nice breeze feels great. Can't beat that. (my keyboard is sticking a lot, it's driving me crazy)</div>
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Last week I was preparing one of my investigators for his baptismal interview. Come to find out he had to have an interview with President. So yesterday President came by ( Editor's note: I love Elder Cox's use of 'came by'. The mission home is 3 hours away in Tampico..ha ha) and they had a nice chat. They set goals and it looks like he will be able to be baptized in September. He said he wanted me to stop by in September so I could baptize him. I told him I would get back to him on that. haha. I would love to come back someday. But with money and I know I will get busy with school and work. I don' know when, but hopefully next year. That would sure be nice to come back and visit. :)</div>
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This week I was thinking about Adam and Eve. I was thinking about their first few years after they partook of the the fruit of knowledge of good and evil. How was their first 20 years like? (Editor's note: Love that syntax!) I'm with my comp 24/7 but at least there are other people to talk to when I want to talk to somebody else. Or when I get married, at least there will be other people to talk to. I feel really bad for Adam. I'm sure he was like: is there anybody else on this planet to talk to? All she wants to talk about is the same things: clothes, food, and how good looking the movie stars are. (Editor's note: Which movie stars would those be?) No, I'm just kidding. But really how frustrating that would be wanting to have a conversation with someone other than your wife and not being able to. Just saying, funny thought... (Editor's note: Certainly got a hoot out of me..:)</div>
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As far as the work here. It's going well. We are still working hard, Mom! Don't think that I'm trunkie :P We are seeing a few fruits of our labors. And the rest will come later. It might be that other missionaries see the fruits of our labors. But that's ok. Actually a missionary let me know a little while ago that they had a baptism for the work that I had done in the area. In my first area I had contacted someone and he was doing awesome. Then all the sudden he disappeared. About a year and half later shows up and says he wants to be baptized. He read the Book of Mormon like 2 times and the D & C before he was baptized. He knows the Bible through and through. He is just an awesome guy and a great help to the ward. It made me feel good to know that the seeds that I sowed so long ago that at least one was reaped. </div>
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The mission is going by faster and faster. Mondays come faster and faster. I feel like I blink and I'm sitting on the computer again writing to you saying that a week just went by when it felt like 1 or 2 days. It's all gone by way too fast. I guess in the moment at times one wants it to go by fast and it feels like time is just creeping by. But it seems that always looking back, one realizes that time went by faster than they would have liked. I feel like that is what has happened in my mission. I <span style="font: 14.0px Times;">guess at times I wanted it to go by faster. but then looking back, it's almost coming to an end. And it went by way too fast. I almost dont want it to stop. </span></div>
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Just some thoughts from a missionary in Mexico. </div>
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I love you all and may God bless you.</div>
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Elder James Cox</div>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-19360272259154474872013-02-26T07:37:00.002-08:002013-02-26T07:51:32.253-08:00Elder Cox's Fourth Letter From Aldama and Gonzalez<br />
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Hey Family and Friends,</div>
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Things here are going well. I`ve been traveling a lot. I`m glad my family bought me a set of suitecases that had a small carring bag with it. I have been using that a lot. I fill it full of small clothes and a few other things needed and off we go. We go over to Gonzalez for a couple days and get to work. The ride over there takes 2 buses and usually takes anywhere to 1 to the extreme of 2 hours depending on how many stops it makes. Here you can get on or off just about anywhere between start and finish of the route. But I can`t complain, it usually has AC. Just here we pack ourselves in worse than sardines. Haha. </div>
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This last week we were in Gonzalez. We had a good time. We taught the husband of a woman that was recently baptized. He will be getting baptized the 16 of March. Great guy. He is overcoming all kinds of obstacles right now. His last vice is coffee. He said he was planning on quitting that cold turkey last Saturday. I know he can. </div>
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We went to go teach a less active member that a member told us about. He wasn't there, so we sat on the curb for a bit to wait to see if he would show up. And what do you know a woman and her two little kids started to talk to us. She asked us who we were and we began to talk to her. Sadly we were running out of time and had to go to the other part of town for a lunch mtg. So we quickly talked to her about the plan of salvation. She was fascinated and wanted to know more about where her husband, grandmother and good friend were. They had all recently passed away. She said that she would be interested in hearing some more. She has 5 children and a neighbor that would be interested also. We challenged her to go to church and then had to run. Later in the afternoon we came back to Aldama. </div>
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Sunday we had the young women (there are just 2) present the New Beginnings thing they do. It went well. We had an investigator come to church here in Aldama. She is planning on being baptized the 23 of March. We also plan on challenging this family that we found in Gonzalez for the 30th. It would be nice to finish strong and see a family be baptized. </div>
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All is going well here. It's getting warm here very quickly. I wished you would send some of that cold and rainy weather down here. Snow would be preferable. Haha. </div>
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Love you all. </div>
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Elder Cox</div>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-85938436389549869922013-02-20T10:06:00.002-08:002013-03-19T07:27:27.124-07:00Elder Cox's Third Letter From Aldama<div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">All is well here. We finally got a little of the rain that you sent our way. Thanks. Yesterday it sprinkled a little and today it's a sunny day with a few clouds out. So it's a nice beautiful day out.</span></div>
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Today was transfers. I didn't get transferred. I'm staying here in Aldama with Elder Rivas again. And still covering Gonzalez. It's been super fun juggling them both. A lot of traveling... it's about an hour away from here. But it's been fun because we have 2 baptisms planned for this next change in Gonzalez. And two here in Aldama. So it'll be alright.</div>
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Sunday I was called up all the sudden to speak because there was leftover time. That's always fun. I've gotten really good at improv. I spoke about the importance of a full tithe and a generous fast offerings. What are some of the blessings. My comp was told beforehand that he was going to speak and came prepared. But mine was improv. And I thought it was funny when a member came up and said Wow, you gave such and excellent talk. So well prepared to me. I almost laughed. Nope 2 years of improv and on the spot, I've learned a little bit. Now it's going to be fun when I get back. Because I won't be able to use my Spanish scriptures. I'll have a hard time finding scriptures in the English set. I'm sure that my bishop is just dying to call me up to talk. I kind of escaped the farewell talk. And I know that I can't get out of the homecoming one though. God has a real sense of humor. I was able to get out of the farewell talk in Sacrament mtg, but man have I paid for it here in the mission. I think I have spoken more times in Sacrament mtg and taught gospel principles class than not. What I mean to say is, there have been very few Sundays that I haven't given a talk nor taught the lesson on my mission. All because I didn't give a farewell talk. No, I'm just kidding. I have felt that my Heavenly Father has really helped me and prepared me for great things to come.</div>
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So anyway back to Aldama. All is well here. We were able to have success as I gathered the branch pres and his counselor in a mtg. There we were able to come together on some ideas and I hope that we are able to get the branch president excited about the missionary work. Aldama really needs some help in that aspect. We were finally able to get 5 families to visit that are inactive. The branch presidency has promised to help us with them. In that way we are really trying to work closely with the members to make this branch grow. I would love to see 5 families be reactivated and in full fellowship before I go home. And of course to see a few children of God be baptized.</div>
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Well that's about it from Aldama. The work is moving forward. Slowly but surely. I'm excited and happy to be here.</div>
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I love you all and pray for you.</div>
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Elder James Cox</div>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-83552043045143262812013-02-11T07:23:00.002-08:002013-02-11T09:17:15.876-08:00Elder Cox's Second Letter From Aldama<br />
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Hey family and friends,</div>
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Life is going good in the slow lane. Things go at a slow pace on the ranch, but its fun. I do enjoy it though. Gives you time to think and enjoy the beauty that is all around. </div>
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Some things that I like about Aldama are that there is really good fresh bread here and milk straight from the cow. You can get a liter of milk and a pan dulce or sweet bread for 8 pesos. Can't beat that. Oh, the little things in life. :) I also like that there are a few baseball fields here. They play more baseball than soccer here. It reminds me of when I used to play years ago. i do love that even though it is a little town the streets are paved. That makes all the difference on your shoes. But the best thing about here is the people. Just down to earth people. Sit down and let's just talk about life while sipping a lemonade. Can't beat that. They are just good people. It's a nice warm feeling you get here.</div>
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Last week we went out to Gonzalez and enjoyed going to a little small ranch called Nuevo Progreso. (new progress). The branch president took us out there and we taught a few people. (sadly we are not able to go back. Now they have to come into town for us to teach them, but that's ok) Anyway, we had a great discussion and enjoyed tamales afterward. It was fun time. </div>
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Sunday we had a great turn out. I think I counted 12 people and that included the elders. Haha. It's fun because they are all pretty close. They welcome you in and have activities all the time. And when they have activities there is always food. Haha. :) The food is pretty good here. My branch president says that he has about 80 sheep or so. And that he plans on bringing one in so we can have a bbq. He also says that he plans on going hunting soon for jabalinas. He says they taste pretty good. Let's see if he hooks me up with some. :) </div>
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Right now we are teaching a great family. The mother is just coming back to church from being inactive for years. And the daughters study in Tampico but visit on the weekends. They seem to like going to church and learning more. They even brought a friend to listen. We plan on having an activity this Saturday focusing on those that are not members. It should be fun. We hope they enjoy it. </div>
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That's about it from Mexico. All is well here. I love you all. Take care.</div>
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Love,</div>
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Elder James Cox</div>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-92115600819373916192013-01-29T12:39:00.004-08:002013-01-29T12:39:40.197-08:00Elder Cox's First Letter From Aldama <br />
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Hey family and friends,</div>
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So last week was pretty good. We found several new investigators. We were happy about that.</div>
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Saturday we were to eat with a sister but her son was sick. So she said it would be easier to just give us money and we could pick a place to eat. She dropped us off at a chinese buffet. It's a pretty good one. I like it. I've eaten there once before. But once my comp and I entered we noticed that it was full. So we decided that we would hit up Sirloin. Another buffet that is pretty good. The sister gave us sufficient to eat pretty well. So we grabbed a bus and headed over there. We got there and realized that it was closed for good. :( Bummer. Se decided to go around the corner and just eat at the Panda Bowl. That too was closed for good. Bummer. Well we came to the conclusion that it was just better to go to Carls jr and grab a hamburger. So that's what we did. It was pretty good. :) Sunday came around and my stomach was not feeling that good. That afternoon I got sick. So I have been sick since yesterday. I'm just now feeling a little bit better. I'm not light headed and throwing up anymore. I think by tomorrow I will be at 100%. I was just worried about the 2 1/2 hour bus ride that was waiting me. But it was a smooth ride. I got lucky and got a nice bus. :) haha.</div>
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Well so here I am now in Aldama. Actually I will be covering Aldama and Gonzalez. You can look those places up. Little small towns. About an hour a part. Looks like I will be finishing my mission up on the ranch. Ha ha. It should be fun. Definitely a change from my last area. Big mansions to little tin roofs. I'm excited. :) I've got to give it all I got and finish strong.</div>
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So that's the news from Mexico. Not much. Ha ha.</div>
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Love ya,</div>
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Elder James Cox</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-60979102052777296322013-01-23T16:16:00.002-08:002013-01-23T16:16:53.001-08:00Elder Cox's Twelfth Letter From the University Branch Area<br />
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Hey family and friends,</div>
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So I changed my pday to today if you didn't notice. Hehe. We decided to go to the temple so therefore we had to change our pday. It was a good experience. I sure love going. </div>
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Last Saturday we baptized a guy named Victor. He is a great guy. He is going to make a difference in the branch. His father came to the baptism and left very impressed. He felt the Spirit very strongly and asked what the feeling was. It was a great experience to see the Spirit in action. I'm sure the missionaries that are in his area will be happy because he seemed very excited to learn more.</div>
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Yesterday we had a training for the trainers and trainees. I was talking to my president and he said that it was very probable that I would be leaving the area. I don't think he wants me to end there. But I would really have like to finish my mission here. I have come to love the people. Even if sometimes they say No, we don't want anything to do with your religion but if you're hungry come on in. Haha. Needless to say, I don't weigh the same as I did when I first started the mission. haha. I recently grabbed a scale to find out exactly how much weight I really gained. I was shocked. I'm sure President will send me to a place way far away that will make me have a diet. And then all will be well. </div>
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Well the weather seems to be changing. They say that it might rain this weekend. Let's hope. I think it was Friday and Saturday that I was in love. The weather was super nice golfing weather. I mean the only thing that was missing in the picture was my clubs. (Editor's note: I think we have a trunky elder here) haha. We were outside the whole day working hard. Taking advantage of the nice weather. </div>
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I was just thinking back to before the mission and even the beginning. Who I was and what has changed. I think one part that I enjoy that has changed is my scripture study. It really has taken on a whole new meaning for me. But most of all my understanding and love for the Savior has grown. I know now that He died for me and now lives for me. I've come to realize just a little bit more of the importance of His role in the Plan of Salvation. And by Him and thru Him all things are possible. </div>
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I love you all. Thank you for all your prayers. And you are always in mine. </div>
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Love,</div>
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Elder James Cox</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-25450968839152587362013-01-14T14:50:00.002-08:002013-01-14T14:51:16.206-08:00Elder Cox's Eleventh Letter From the University Branch Area<br />
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Hey family and friends,</div>
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How're things going? We had a great day. We decided to take a tour of part of Tampico. It wasn't anything special, except the crocodilles. There is a lagoon that's in the middle of Tampico. And it's full of crocodilles. Well, sometimes they get brave or curious and start to head into someone's house or whatever. And the firemen here really have nothing to do, so they get calls that there is an alligator in my front yard or something like that and they get to go pick it up and throw it back into the lagoon. And while we were over there it just happened that the firemen had one wrapped up. And they let us hold it. It was a small one. I'll send you the pics. It's cool. </div>
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But other than that, the spiritual part of the week went really well. We will be having a baptism this week. Excellent guy. And my comp gave an excellent talk yesterday. Mine was bad. Sometimes they are good and sometimes they just suck (Editor's note: Who else thinks that is inappropriate language for a missionary?:) Well sadly mine wasn't that great, but my comp's was super. He really brought down the hammer on all the members, but with so much love that they didn't even feel it. They all felt like they needed to do better, but it was done in such a classic way. I was surprised. Because of that, just after that we received a referral from a member saying that she wanted to invite her neighbor over to listen to the mssionaries. She has never heard them before. I was happy that my comp was able to hit home with the members. </div>
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The weather is great. It's cloudy and a little cool. I'm hoping for a miracle and that it stays cool until April. Just hold out a few months until I get home. Haha. </div>
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Oh, funny story. So, there is a sister here that is serving with her husband as missionaries at the temple. He is an American. She is a Mexican. She told us to stop by yesterday for some tamales. They were sweet tamales. They put some sugar in them. They usually only make them this time of the year. They're good. And then she sent us on our way with red vines, almond joys, and snickers. All from the States. OOO! It was good. Haha. Nice treat. But really I got to kick the sweets and soda. It's killing me. I'm almost ready to just give up because the members love giving us food. I've come to the conclusion that whatever, I'm coming home fat. Back at the house I will be able to lose it. Because it's impossible here. Haha. </div>
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I love you all. Have an excellent week.</div>
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Elder Cox</div>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-63237919121229888162013-01-02T13:00:00.002-08:002013-01-02T13:00:29.537-08:00Elder Cox's Tenth Letter From the University Branch Area<br />
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Hey family and friends,</div>
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Happy New Year!! </div>
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I hope all had a wonderful Christmas and New Years. </div>
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This week we will be having a baptism for a guy named Victor. Great guy. We are all excited for him. </div>
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My companion and I are having a great time. We are finding some success and know that all will turn out well.</div>
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Sadly, yesterday the food made me sick and I made friends with the toilet last light. Between the music next door and the sickness I didn't sleep at all. This letter will be short becuase I just wanted you all to know I am doing well. I probably will be feeling better tomorrow. </div>
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Love you all and wish you all my best wishes,</div>
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Elder James Cox</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-42287565980896122672012-12-18T20:57:00.002-08:002012-12-18T20:57:35.062-08:00Elder Cox's Ninth Letter From the University Branch Area<br />
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Hey family and friends,</div>
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Christmas is just around the corner. So, Merry Christmas! Wow, isnt it amazing that this year flew by? Well it did for me. And now this Friday is the end of the world. Life was surely short for me. Too bad I didn't get to enjoy it a little more. Hehe. Actually we are having a ward activity that night, so iI'l be partying for the last day of the world. Hehe. Well not partying like that.</div>
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It sure is nice to have the confidence that God is in control. He speaks to his prophets and we need not to waiver nor fear when men cry out, the world is near. The gospel is true. And what joy it brings to us that we know that families can be together forever. Sadly to say, I don't think the end is near. We ain't there yet. But gettin' close. Hehe. </div>
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So this was a great transfer. About 5 weeks ago President Jordan told me that I would be training this coming transfer. I was excited to hear that. But a little sad because that meant I would probably be leaving and having to white wash an area for Christmas with a kid. A new missionary. But last week President asked me in an interview if I wanted to stay. I said, I get to choose? Well I would like to stay. I love the area and really don't want to be in another area for Christmas. Well he answered my plea and told me that I'm staying and will be receiving my kid. But the downside is I'm still in 2 very large areas. Double the work. Oh boy. Haha. </div>
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So Monday I dropped off my old comp, Elder Barrientos and later went over to the mission home to go pick up the new missionary. That is where I received Elder Quiñones from Durango, Durango. We had a long day of training and then finally got home late. It's going to be a great change. I'm excited to have another kid for Christmas. Hehe. </div>
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Family, you will be able to talk to him on Christmas. He's learning English. So we will see how it goes. Hehe. </div>
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I love you all. Have a very Merry Christmas!</div>
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Love,</div>
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Elder James Cox</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-48469648469087623122012-12-12T17:05:00.003-08:002012-12-12T17:05:23.230-08:00Elder Cox's Eighth Letter From the University Branch Area<br />
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Hey family and friends,</div>
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This week went pretty well. I had been planning an activity for about 6 weeks now. And last Saturday we finally had it. A lot of stress and planning, And in the end all paid off. </div>
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We started off in the Sacrament room (Editor's note: I think he means the chapel) and watched a movie: Joy to the world. We had the Sacrament Room almost packed. Then we had all those that were visiting us that were not members of our faith with their friend that invited them to divide into groups. We then had an open house in the chapel. Had a few rooms that were shown and then we went outside for the show. </div>
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We had a few of the auxiliary groups perform with the theme of Christmas. It turned out really well. Later we ate and were uplifted by a live band. Haha. The branch president threw together a band and played a few songs. In the end we had about 200 to 250 people show up. And about 50 to 60 that were not members. It was a success like I have never seen before. A normal turn out is 30 members or so for a missionary activity. It was fun to see how the members got together and invited friends. We are hoping to see fruits from the activity.</div>
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All is well here. I have a week left and then it might be my turn to change. Who knows. I would like to be here for Christmas, but who knows. I'll let you know next week where I am. And then I will let you know when I will be able to have my call home. </div>
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I love you all. Thank you for all your prayers and kind words.</div>
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May God Bless you.</div>
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Elder James Cox</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-52557285137705138452012-12-06T13:22:00.001-08:002012-12-06T13:22:07.833-08:00Elder Cox's Seventh Letter From the University Branch Area<br />
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Hey family and friends, </div>
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Did you miss me this last Monday? I'm sure that you didn't. Haha. So what happened was on Saturday we were told we were going to have a special training meeting on Monday and that our pday would be postponed until Wednesday. So that is why I am writing today instead of Monday.</div>
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This week was pretty good. I enjoyed it. We had an excellent baptism on Saturday. Carlos was baptized by his brother in law. It was a special experience. His parents came into town. They live about 4 hours away. It was nice of them to come. Later after the baptism they invited us over to eat. They were going to have their baptism/birthday party dinner for him. Carlos was baptized on his birthday. A very special day for him. </div>
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This week we also had a fun adventure. I'll have to start from the beginning so that you understand. So about about 4 weeks ago I was told that I was going to be covering 2 wards. And that the other house that the missionaries were in was going to be vacant. So I asked if we could move over into that house. It was a better house all around. We received permission and moved everything into the other house. All was going well when President gave me a call and asked if i could move back into the old house that I was in. Oh, just shoot me now, I thought. We had closed the contract on the last house and had everything in one house. It was going to be a mess, I thought. Then he told me that it was only going to be 2 weeks and we would move back. Oh no, I thought. What a mess!<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> Well whatever the President says. </div>
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What was going on was he was puting sister missionaries in the house that we were living in for 2 weeks. So the first problem I had was to find a house to move into. Luckily I remembered that a sister about a week ago had told me she was thinking about renting an apartment and if the missionaries would like to rent it. I cordially told her thank you, but we had a house. So now I quickly looked for her number and asked her about the apartment. She said that it wasn't ready, They wanted to paint it and fix a few things. And asked when we were planning on moving in. I told her in 1 or 2 days. She was like wow! umm let me check with my husband. So they said they would but they wanted to paint the apartment first. So I grabbed some missionaries and my comp and we went over friday and scraped and painted almost all day. Did the finishing touch ups Saturday and moved everything we were going to need for 2 weeks. </div>
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We looked at the time and it was time to fill the baptismal font. We ran over to the church and started to clean and fill it up. Then it was time to eat, ran over to the lunch, then quickly over to our house to shower and change. Then back to the church to finish filling up the font. Ok so we had 30 minutes to fill up the rest of the font and print off the program before the baptism was to start. We ran over to the little coffee shop where they have public computers. It was closed. Oh no, we don't know of any other places close by... luckily we saw that a bishop was at the church building and so we asked to use the secretary´s computer. He was kind enough to let us print it off quickly and we were saved. </div>
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After that the baptism went very smooth. And all went well. We had several investigators come and they all enjoyed it. Sadly I don't have pictures. My camera didn't have a battery and so my comp has the pics. Later I will pass them so that you can see. (Editor's note: Don't you just love the syntax?:)</div>
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Well that was my week. Nothing else new with me. All is going well. I really am enjoying my wards here. I have a feeling that I will be leaving in a week and a half. Just before Christmas. I hope not, but who knows. We have some great things planned for Christmas. This will be a great Christmas, but I will sure miss you guys.</div>
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Love ya all.</div>
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Elder James Cox</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-15125563337449643232012-11-28T15:15:00.002-08:002012-11-28T15:19:40.839-08:00Elder Cox's Sixth Letter From the University Area<br />
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Hey Family and friends. </div>
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How're things going? How was Thanksgiving? Mine was pretty good. Hehe. But I didn't eat turkey. :( We went over to a sister's house and she showed me how to make encacahuatadas (Editor's note: tortillas rolled with chicken in a chili peanut sauce. sounds yummy!) They are pretty good. I'm trying to have the sisters teach me the recipes so that when I get home I can cook some real Mexican food. I can make home made tortillas. wheat and corn. yum. And I'm learning some really good salsa recipes. How to make them from here. I bought the volcanic rock and everything. It's called a molcajete (Editor's note: Authentic Mexican mortar and pestle). Makes good salsa. But I'm warning you, I'm not sure if you are going to like my salsa. I love habanero salsa. It's soo good. it's so funny how now I have to eat everything with salsa. If it isn't spicy it doesn't taste the same. Haha. I tried that Pace salsa that I used to love and it didn't taste good at all. Haha. I was like this isn't salsa. It was funny. I was like where is my chile de pequin (Editor's note: the tiny, very, very hot chilies. Yikes!) It's almost like candy to me. I love it when they are in vinegar with carrots. I finally found a purpose for vinegar. I really don't like anything that is in vinegar, but with chile it's soo good. Gotta try it. </div>
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It was pretty funny the other day I was doing divisions with some other missionaries. The companion for the day is from Ecuador. And they don't eat anything spicy. So he is having a very hard time adjusting to the food here. So the sister made some really good hamburgers, and of course I had to put my jalapeños on it. It is not spicy to me at all, its more the flavor. And so I finished two huge hamburgers, they were so good. (Editor's note: I think the reason Elder Cox has not sent pics home for awhile is because he has gotten fat on all this Mexican food :) I had to have 2 and there was a little part of a jalapeño left on my plate. And I was about to eat it, but my companion asked me if it was spicy. In my opinion it wasn't, so I said no. So he worked up his courage and tried the tiniest little bit. And you should have seen his face. He starts screaming and drinking his drink and then grabs mine and then some fries. He gets a little upset and says what do you mean its not spicy, its really hot!. And I'm just laughing my head off. And imagining that's probably how I was when I first got here. Well not that bad, but I'm sure the chiles were spicy. I kind of felt bad for the guy, but it sure made my day to see his face. </div>
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This Sunday in church was excellent. The first ward we went to sadly no investigators came, but we had 2 inactive families that came after years of not coming. It was nice to see that. The second ward, i.e the other 3 hours of church we had 4 investigators and 2 families that are less active that came. Four is great! Seeing that when I began serving here there was nothing. Haha. Little by little we are seeing some miracles in that ward. But I'll only be there for 3 weeks more. President told me that he will be assigning 2 missionaries there and i"ll probably have the other ward. The first ward is called Jardín. It's a great ward. Just gonna need some help a little. It's got all the potential to be great, just needs to find a little energy and some enthusiasm. We have some great hopes for both wards. </div>
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We are going to be having a baptism this Saturday, Carlos. He will be turning 19 this Saturday and having his baptism also. His family will be coming in from out of town and I hope it will all turn out great for him. His brother in law will be baptizing him. Carlos is working on saving up and freeing up time from college to be able to go on a mission in 1 year. I bumped into another one of my converts that will be sending in his papers this week to go on a mission. It's exciting to see them go. I have hopes that 2 others will go on missions also. </div>
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Someone asked me if I have Walmart and other American stores in my area. The answer is yes, but I don't go to them. I usually just buy at a little store all the things I need because it's close by. </div>
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About my areas, they are really big in distance because there are very few members. Most of the parts are very nice areas. But I have come to love the members there. Every area I love and have come to love the areas. Each area is different but has a special place in my heart. </div>
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My companion. I can't remember if I told you his name, his name is Elder Barrientos. He is great. We get along well. Work hard. He has 3 years as a member. His sister and mother are members. Father and other siblings are not. His sister has decided to serve a mission also. </div>
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Concerning my health. I'm doing well. My comp and I are healthy. A little sore, but doing well. Sore because we were given permission to play some sports with the members Saturday. And we haven't done anything really physical in a very long time. I'm feeling pretty sore like an old man. This is not good. And I'm getting fat. You are not going to be able to recognize me. I'm coming back brown, short and fat with a thick accent. Hehe. Well maybe just the fat part. Hehe. </div>
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Well all is well here. We are working hard and are happy. Looking forward to Christmas. It's just around the corner. I would love to be spending it with you guys this year, but 'till the next one. I do have the only Starbucks in Tampico in my area. We stopped by because a missionary gave me a Starbucks card a while back. We stopped by my companion and I and had a frappuccino. Strawberry is my favorite. Don't worry it doesn't have coffee. But the point is, it's all Christmasy there. It made me think of home. Here there are very few that put up lights. I'm sure more in my area than others just because of the type of people. I'm hoping I will be spending Christmas here where I'm at right now. But we will see. Changes are on the 18 of Dec. just before Christmas....</div>
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That's about it with me. I hope I answered your questions. If you have any more just let me know. </div>
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Love,</div>
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Elder Cox</div>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-75744456876766642232012-11-13T11:28:00.005-08:002012-11-13T11:33:41.816-08:00Elder Cox's Fifth Letter From the University Area<br />
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Hey family and friends,</div>
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So this week like I said I received my new companion, Elder Barrientos. He is from a place called Torreon. Great missionary. We are doing great together. </div>
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Also Pdte (Presidente) put me in charge of 2 areas. I can't remember if I mentioned that in my last email or not. So this was the first week having 2 areas. We are trying to coordinate really well so that we can have the men of the wards joining us for the lessons that way we can be in 2 places at once. Starting with family home evenings I think almost every night we will be doing splits with the members so that my comp and I can cover more. It's fun. Definitely put me to work. I'm grateful for the growing experience. We are going to have some great success this way. </div>
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Just as you guys had received some news about the MTC and the missionaries needing to prepare more, we here received new news. Now everyone is on board with working with members and less actives. That is the main focus. Retention. Not so much filling up the tub, but first clogging up the huge hole that is making the water all fall out. I've always said it's better to wait a little while and make sure the investigator has a testimony and is sure he or she wants to and undertands the commitment of being a member. So that they can help build the kingdom of God on this earth. And it's better to wait and make sure that the person is going to stay in the church. So they changed a few things here in our mission. </div>
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Changed the way we work. They said no more knocking doors or street contacts. (Thank you! i have been saying this for sometime...)</div>
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Now it's working with the members and having them do the finding. And leaving the teaching to us. (That's the way I've been trying to work for the last 6 months) Hehe And a few other changes, but they're minor. </div>
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I thought how wonderful that is, that we will finally be focusing on members and fortifying them. And helping them be the full time finders. It's been a wonderful experience as we have been really relying heavily on the members covering 2 areas here. As we do so, they get excited about the work and see how important their part in all this is. They can do mighty miracles that we missionaries can't really do. The work will go forth so much better now that the members will be even more involved.</div>
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Oh and today for our pday, we moved houses. The sisters that were living in the other area had a better house. With ac. hehe. And it is right next to the border of both areas. So we decided to move in. But we spent the whole day cleaning the house. Yuck. I dont want to get married or have to clean up after girls ever again. (Editor's note: Are you young women paying attention?:) I always thought the sister missionaries were clean. But it's true it wasn't the worst house I have seen. But all the drains were clogged with hair. I mean that was a lot of hair. I filled up half a grocery bag of hair from the drains and whereever else. Ha ha. But now the house is super clean and we are excited to be living there. </div>
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More than anything I am just loving the mission right now. I finally understand and feel confident being a missionary. That is what everyone has always said: The first 18 months you think you know what to do, but really the last part of your mission you go, finally I got it. I undertstand what to do, how to do it, and so it really is the best part of the mission. The last 6 months. It's just fun. I enjoy it a lot. The members are awesome. </div>
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Well I love you all. Miss you tons.</div>
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Elder Cox</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-16803727724330548692012-10-29T12:26:00.001-07:002012-10-29T12:26:05.404-07:00Elder Cox's Fourth Letter From the University Branch Area<br />
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Hey family and friends,</div>
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This week it finally cooled down. Just a couple days ago a big storm came in with a nice cool breeze and hasn't left. It hasn't rained, but has stayed dark and cloudy since Thursday or Friday. It's so nice to sleep at night now. I turn on the fan next to my bed and it blows a nice cold air on me. I have to sleep with a blanket now. Ha ha. Before I would sleep just laying on my bed and occasionally have a light sheet, but most of the time it was too hot even for that. I sure love the cold. Isn't it so nice? Ha ha. We will see how long it lasts here. I think in a week the sun will come back and it will get hot once more. :(</div>
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Thursday I finished up my root canal and crown. Got the crown finally put on. Feels good and all is well. </div>
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This week with the proselyting we confirmed a baptismal date for the 24 of november for a young man that we had been teaching. he said that date so that his family could come. He hopes that will be enough time for them. They live about 4 hours away on a bus. He is living with his sister and brother in law. His sister was baptized a few years ago thanks to her husband. Before they got married she got baptized and they were able to get married in the temple a year later. The young man, his name is carlos had some questions about that. Why he and his family couldn't go in. But they were able to go to the the reception. We explained the importance of the temple. And he really would like to go there some day. Also he is thinking that he would like to be a missionary. Right now he is 18 and just starting college. It would be a great decision for him. So he will be getting baptized the 24th.</div>
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We also had a couple get married on Thursday and that means they are now eligible for baptism. We will be talking to them about that later this week. </div>
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I had a cool experience last week. We were at a less actives house which by the way was an awesome lesson and he finally came to church yesterday after I don't know how many years. Anyway afterward I told my comp that we should go to a certain part of our area to contact. We had a few minutes literally like 10 minutes until we needed to go to a meeting. So we went to that area. It's full of apartments and we walked to one of them. Went to the second floor and I picked the door on the left. We knocked and a woman holding a baby came to the door. Her eyes were a little red and puffy. I told her we had a message to share with her and her family about how they can live in peace and happiness in this life and be an eternal family in the next. She was almost about to cry and told us she was just crying and praying for help from the Lord. She had been going through some hard times and said that we were the answer to her prayers. She asked if we could come back when her husband was there. So we left her with a pamphlet of a the proclamation to the family. We returned back yesterday and she read it and loved it. But unfortunetly her husband doesn't get back from out of town until tomorrow. We will be stopping by tomorrow to see them. I know that God answers prayers. And it is a wonderful feeling when he uses you to answer a prayer of someone else. This last week a couple people told me that we were the answer to their prayers. And really I never felt a strong feeling to go to a certain place or a certain person. It was just like we should stop by so and so. Or go to this place. Sounds good. And later we found out that because we went, the Lord was able to use us to help His children. </div>
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Next week when I write you it'll be the beginning of the next change. So who knows where I will be. President did mention to me that one of us will have changes but he still doesn't know who will be leaving. I hope I can stay. I really enjoy the area. I really love the members there. Even though many have told me that it is a very difficult area, I absolutely love it. We have seen some mighty miracles and people so ready to be baptized. (they say it's hard because it's very rich. And cold hearts) But the truth be told the members and the branch president are awesome. And we are going to have some more baptisms next change. We have a few planned. We will see what the Lord has in store for me. </div>
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I love you all and I'm grateful for your prayers. May God bless you.</div>
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Love,</div>
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Elder James Cox</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-86889687961236482972012-10-24T15:07:00.003-07:002012-10-24T15:07:20.434-07:00Elder Cox's Third Letter From the University Branch Area<br />
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Hey family and friends,</div>
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So things are going well. Not much is happening to write about, but I will try to keep you up to date. :)</div>
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This last Friday we had an activity that my companion put on. We had a treasure hunt using the scriptures. It was great fun. We enjoyed it a lot. And found that the members are starting to get excited. We plan on having another fun activity this coming Friday. I think we will be playing Scattegories. A lot of members have promised to bring investigators. We are excited.</div>
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We plan on having a baptism if all goes well on the 3rd. I love the area. It's quite different. We have to use different ways to find new investigators. We can't knock doors. That doesn't work here. But there are several other ways to work. I like the challenge. </div>
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This one is going to be short and sweet. Nothing quite new. I'm sorry there are no pics because I haven't been able to buy a memory card adapter. The computer does not want to read my camera so I have to go buy a card reader. Right now I will be waiting 'til next month when I have some money. So next month you will get pics. Sorry. I love you all. Take care.</div>
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Love,</div>
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Elder Cox</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-17666753831428885982012-10-14T15:04:00.000-07:002012-10-14T15:15:53.670-07:00Elder Cox's Second Letter From the University Branch Area<br />
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Hey, sorry this will be a short letter...</div>
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What happened is that we were busy this morning. We had to go to the offices and when we finally returned we had just an hour to write our family before the district meeting today. So we quickly went to the little stores that have computers for use and found that it was closed. So we found another one, but the computers are so ancient. It is very slow. Well the thing is that I just don't have enough time so I will have to make this short.</div>
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Dear family and friends,</div>
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Wow! Has another week flown by?! I absolutely loved General Conference. Wasn't that great? I hope all were able to watch it. i sure learned a lot.</div>
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About this week. Well we have been workng with a lot of members trying to get them excited about the work. We have seen some success. We are starting to get some referrals from the members. We are going to have a baptism this coming Saturday for a mother and daughter. It will sure be fun to see them be baptized. We had a young man go to Conference and absolutely loved it. I'm sure he had a testimony building experience and will be more sure about being baptized. He is absolutely awesome. </div>
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Tampico is starting to cool off. It really is getting nice. Today has been a little windy with a cool breeze. Well I hope this weather keeps up 'til April. Because I don't know if I can stand the heat any longer. Haha. jk. </div>
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Things are going well. Working hard. Fnding a lot of success. Seeing God's hand in more of my life. I can feel your prayers. And I thank each and everyone of you for them. </div>
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Thank you.</div>
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I love you.</div>
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Elder Cox</div>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-14695849770370638852012-10-14T15:01:00.003-07:002012-10-14T15:18:16.142-07:00Elder Cox's First Letter From the University Branch Area<br />
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Hey family and friends,</div>
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So here I am back at the cybers as they call them here. The little stores that you can find a computer and internet. It took some time to find one. Let me tell you. I think everyone in my area has their own laptop and so there is no need for cybers there. My new area is a very rich area. There are a lot of parts of my area that I can not enter because they are gated communities. But other than that, it's pretty nice. and the HUGE hills that are in my area. Let me tell you what. I'm going to have some huge thighs when I get done with this place. Haha. </div>
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It's funny because just a month ago I was driving through what is currently my new area and thought to myself: Wow! there are some nasty hill here. I'm glad that I won't ever be here. Well what do you know, I'm there. Well the Lord has a sense of humor. And a reason why im there. No, but seriously I absolutely love my area. It is called University. It's a branch. But the best branch by far. So far it has been the best organized and in unity or harmony than any other area I have been in. The Branch President is awesome. He is ready to work. Knows what he wants to get accomplished and knows how to achieve it. He is working closely with us to strengthen the branch and hopefully make it a ward very soon. </div>
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The members are very helpful. Super kind and help one another. Well I don't know if I told you but I'm white washing the area. That means that the 2 missionaries that were here were taken out of the area and my comp and I were put in their places. So neither one of us knew the area when we got there. The members have been super helpful and it's been a fun experience. </div>
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We actually started an idea that I think is going to work. We passed a list around yesterday to all the members to put their name down for one night when we would come over to their house and have a FHE. BUT that they would invite a less active or non member to join us. In that way we could have a lot more fellowshipping. Something we lack a lot of in all the wards here. Well we had more names than we expected. Tonight will be the first night. A sister in the ward is inviting some less active youth and they said that they would love to stop by. We hope all goes well.</div>
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We have been having a lot of success very quickly inspite of the area. We are going to have 2 baptisms in 2 weeks. And the next in 3 weeks. I had the priviledge of going back to my old area and baptizing Eduardo (edi) on Saturday. That was so awesome! He invited a lot of friends. And about 8 showed up including his family. He is the first to be the example and I'm sure many more will follow. </div>
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So I received some questions and i will try to answer them. My last companion was Elder Leavitt. He was like my twin. we got along so well. iI was sad to leave him. Neither one of us wanted to have changes. We both agreed it had been just the most fun we had ever had with any other companion. I'll definitely be going up to St. George to visit him after the mission. Except he doesn't get home for another 13 months. But oh well. </div>
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My new companion is Elder Barboza. He is from Lima, Peru. He has 1 year out in the mission. He is obedient and wants to work. I'll let you know more when I find out more. Time will only tell if it's going to be a great change or not. But I have high hopes with the branch and area. And I know it'll all turn out just great.</div>
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Someone asked if I miss the offices. Well the truth be told yes, a little. But I have been going back over once in a while to help my replacement. Poor guy, he's trying. I know how he feels. But luckily he got more training than I got. Which wasn't a whole lot but better than nothing. I think I get at least 10 calls each day from him for something or another. So I just laugh and try to help him out in whatever I can. Thinking, ya, I guess I don't miss the offices that bad. </div>
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Something I'm looking forward to... General Conference this weekend. I'm super stoked. It's like 2 days in heaven. I get to sit down in ac, and not do anything., just listen to the prophets voice. I love it. I'm looking forward to it. Can you believe it? After this Conference I will have just one more Conference and then will be home. Wow! crazy thought. I'm glad I'm not in the offices, It kind of was getting to me sending missionaries home. Feeling a little trunky. Haha. Well,glad that feeling is gone. It's going to be fun working 24/7 in the field once again. President has me doing a lot right now. My hands are full. But then again I have always enjoyed being super busy. I get bored if I'm not. </div>
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Well that is about all with me. I forgot my cable to send pics, but will bring it next time to send some pics to all of you. I love you all!</div>
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Love,</div>
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Elder James Cox</div>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-6223306491071926002012-09-26T15:44:00.000-07:002012-09-26T15:49:55.386-07:00Elder Cox's Ninth and Final Letter As Finance Secretary<br />
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Hey family and friends, </div>
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So this week was a pretty eventful week. Sunday I started having a little pain in my mouth. So I popped a few Ibuprofens and thought that would be good. I figured hey, I'll go to the dentist in a week or so when i have time. My teeth thought otherwise. Sunday night I was up all night with the pain. I think I popped 15 Ibuprofens that night without any success. I was up all night. My poor comp, at like 2 in the morning I woke him up asking for a blessing. He is a heavy sleeper, so it took a little bit. Haha. Monday I was able to go see the dentist, but she wasn't sure if it was going to be a root canal and wanted a 2nd opinion from the endodontist. Well I got some other pain killers, but nothing seemed to work. Wednesday came around when my appointment was with the endodontist. He goes yup, that is a root canal you are going to need. And the tooth above is dead also. But we wont be doing anything to it right now. We will leave it and see if this does the job. If it doesnt then you might need a 2nd root canal. Oh, boy! I thought. Well I had already had 1 root canal by the endodontist, and trusted him. The 2nd was quite similar. Just this one was 10x more painful. It sure felt good when it was all over and I could sleep that night. :) So if anyone decides to get some pretty good and relatively cheap dental work, they should stop by Mexico. It really is kinda nice. I might have to just make it a habit to visit the dentists office more often here because i enjoyed it so much. Haha. i'm just glad that I found a good place to get the work done where I trust them. But still there is nothing like home. Haha.</div>
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Well besides that I really have been in the offices everyday all day this week. I was trying to finish up everything that needed to be done before I pass off the baton to the next guy. There is quite a bit to do. And then my trainee didn't come into the office yesterday. So I'm trying to train him on everything in 1 or 2 days when normally it should be 2 to 3 weeks. Haha. Well, he will have to hit the ground running. Good luck. I think that is why President put me close by. (Editor's note: Elder Cox is referring to the fact that his new area which he was just moved to is close by the Mission office) I'm white washing an area right next to this last area I just had. That means that the 2 missionaries that were there will both have changes and I will be going in there with another missionary that doesn't know the area either. We will just work our little tails off. haha. But it should be an interesting experience. I'm up for the challenge. The branch can use a little help. It'll be fun working with a branch again. I like branches. They are just so much fun. President Jordan told me that if he hadn't remembered that the next secretary of finances would need my help he would have sent me to the outskirts of the mission in one of the branches. It is called the Huasteca zone. I would have loved to go out there. I think I will be finishing up my mission out there. I hope.</div>
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That is about it with me. I really will have more next week. I'm hoping that now that I'm leaving the offices, I will have more teaching opportunities. And next week will be more spiritual. </div>
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I love you all. And thank you for all your prayers and kind words. </div>
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Elder James Cox</div>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-18156237519175549012012-09-15T15:24:00.002-07:002012-09-15T15:24:43.875-07:00Elder Cox's Eighth Letter As Finance Secretary<br />
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Hey family and friends,</div>
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Well this is going to be a short one. I don't have much to say, but I was told that you wanted to hear what was going on with me. So I'll do my best to keep you informed. </div>
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I just got back from the Temple with Elder Leavitt. I enjoyed that. There is always a peaceful feeling in the House of the Lord. And then after I write we will go eat. And later tonight is La Noche Mexicana or in English, Mexican Night. The 16th is the celebration of independence. And so they party tonight. The ward will be having an activity later tonight that we will be going to. So I was fed spiritually this morning at the temple, and then physically later tonight. Not bad. Ha ha. </div>
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This week has been kind of interesting. I've been trying to tie up loose ends and prepare everything for the next secretary of finances that will be coming in a week. Yup, my turns is up here in the offices. To be honest I don't really like changes, but oh well. I knew it was coming. I can feel them every time. So the best I can do is say goodbye and promise everyone I will return one day. :) </div>
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We were going to be having a baptism today, his name is Eduardo. He is awesome. A very special son of God. But on Tuesday he told us that his dad had to go out of town for work and he wanted him to be there for his baptism. So he asked if he could reschedule it for the day that his dad gets back. He will be getting back in 2 weeks. That is the day he will be baptized and unfortunately I will probably not be able to see it because I will be gone. But such is life. I know he will be a great leader, and I'm sure he will be serving a mission one day. I would come back to see that. </div>
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Well other than that I haven´t done much. nothing really new here. I'm excited for general conference. That is just around the corner. It feels like just last week i was in Panuco watching general conference. Time sure flies. You really have to enjoy every moment of it, or you will blink and just miss it. </div>
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So enjoy every moment of this life. Do the best you can. And never have any regrets. </div>
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I love you all,</div>
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Elder James Cox</div>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-47764368749688797602012-09-09T11:27:00.001-07:002012-09-09T11:30:23.539-07:00Elder Cox's Seventh Letter As Finance Secretary<br />
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Hey family and friends,</div>
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So I do apologize for not writing earlier. I will do better.</div>
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well news... </div>
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I got a new companion. Elder Leavitt. He´s from St. George, well actually a small town called Gunlock. He´s cool. We have a good time. We are excited about a baptism next Saturday. Eduardo or Edi will be getting baptized. Super awesome guy. Actually I really look up to him. </div>
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The work in the office is going about the same, but getting easier. I think I will be here one more change, and am glad for that. About the birthday, I had a great time. Thank you all for your letters and pachages. Got them all on time or just one day later. It was such a nice treat. Thursday we swung by DQ to grab an icecream cake. We brought it to lunch to share with the family we were going to eat with. Their daughter was turning 15 on the 6th also, so I thought hey, why not. And I really wanted an icecream cake. (cant ask for one of those from your mom to send you in a box... dont think it would last) Haha. Well anyway the daughter ended up being at school so part of the family enjoyed it with us and we left like half the cake with the family to enjoy. Then that night President and Sister Jordan invited us over for a surprise bday party. Well not party, small dinner and cake. I had mentioned to Elder Mendez i was craving some tacos de pastor. And so what do you know he went and bought them and Sister Jordan grabbed a cheese cake. Couldn't ask for more. Yumm! That was super nice of them. it was a nice treat. </div>
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Friday night was pretty cool. Elder Leavitt and I got talking about family history, I can't remember why, but we ended up getting on the new Family Search. And somehow we got on the topic of how supposedly there had been some that have traced their lines back to Adam. But I was skeptical. Well what do you know, just by clicking back and back, selecting a few here and there, Elder Leavitt finds out that one of his ancestors is Thor (Editor's query: Elder Leavitt is related to the Norse god, Thor??). That's pretty cool. Then it keeps going back and then he traces it all the way back to Adam. I thought wow!, thats cool. I tried, but without any luck. I found some cool ancestors though. Well, famous people. Caesar Augustus, King Herod that tried to kill Jesus, King Nebuchadrezzar (Editor's note: don't you just love that spelling? :), and a bunch of kings from Syria. Too bad Herod and Nebuchadrezzar didn't keep the greatest records, 'cause it doesn't go that far. King Neb (Editor: I'm glad we're abbreviating now) and his family were stuck in Babylon for so long the lines just end. Haha, just thought I would talk about the family history for a moment. You never know what you might find. And mom, this all came from your side of the family. Dad, I couldn't find much after 500ad. It just kind of ended. </div>
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Well everything is going great. I can feel your prayers. They help so much. Thank you one and all. Really, your letters and prayers are such a blessing! Thank you for your sacrifice. </div>
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I love you all and please know that all is well.</div>
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Love,</div>
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Elder Cox</div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-32771192894258788912012-07-18T15:12:00.003-07:002012-07-18T15:12:26.914-07:00Elder Cox's Sixth Letter As Finance Secretary<br />
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Hey Family and Friends,</div>
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So this week went pretty well. To be honest I was looking forward to the weekend to get out and just focus on the area instead of the offices. We had divisions with another missionary and so my companion went to another area. Friday night comes and because of circumstances we returned home a little early. Got home at 8:30 these last few days. They just want us to be careful. nothing wrong. So anyway, we got done planning and I'm in bed by 9 and thinking wow!, this is soo nice. I think I'm going to be going to bed early and get a little extra sleep. Ring ring, there goes my phone as my eyes start feeling heavy. Sister Jordan is calling me. She is out of town and a missionary has to go to the emergency room. So I'm in charge of getting the finances taken care of. We helped him out and when all was said and done we took him back to our place to sleep. I think I went to bed at like 12:30. I know its not that late, but that is for a missionary. haha. Right now as I'm writing this letter, he is enjoying my bed. He will be there for a few days. His comp is being a great sport, but I can tell he wants to get out and work. </div>
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Then in the morning some more errands to the hospital. It has actually been a great experience being here. I know all the main hospitals now. The doctors. Learning how to work with doctors and secretaries. There is a lot of great experience for after the mission that I am obtaining here. </div>
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So today has been a rather nice day. Been in the house a lot, but it was nice because it was raining pretty hard almost all day. I do love the rain, when I'm not in it. haha. </div>
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So anyway, something more spiritual... We are going to have a baptism this Saturday. His name is Oscar. Pretty cool kid. His mom was inactive for some time. Then came back to church and that's how we met her son. Because he is 8 it is usually the bishop that does the teaching and interview. But for some reason he just doesn't want to do it, and has passed it on to us and we are to teach him and do the interview and baptize him. It has been a fun experience. Really it has taught me how to be a better teacher. Teach a lot more clearly and simply. </div>
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Also one of our investigators just got back from France. She went for a hair thing convention and to enjoy Europe. Her husband stayed heer to hold down the fort. He is a member and she is not. So he has been teaching her. She is progressing by leaps and bounds. It's been great watching her. She was to read the Book of Mormon while she was in France. We heard from her husband that she has been reading. I'm excited to hear about her testimony and experience. I believe she is going to be baptised very, very soon. </div>
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We also had a really cool experience. Well I didn't, my comp did. While he was in immigration he contacted a guy from Africa that has been here for 7 years. Speaks really good Spanish. So anyway he is an awesome guy. Progressing very well. Has a true desire to keep listening and applying these teachings in his life. He has a wife and a brand new baby. I think he wants to really make the best decisions so that his wife and kid can have the best he can offer. He really is great guy. It'll be fun to start teaching him. I'll let you know how he's doing and if he gets baptised. </div>
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Other than that things are going pretty much the same. Just lovin' life. </div>
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I love you all and am so grateful for all of you. </div>
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With love,</div>
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Elder James Cox</div>
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<br /></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-67654667826350828522012-07-09T11:47:00.001-07:002012-07-09T11:49:51.468-07:00Elder Cox's Fifth Letter As Finance Secretary<br />
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Hey family and friends,</div>
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Life here in the mission home has been quite crazy with the Calls leaving and the Jordans coming. Elder Flores and I have been running around like crazies here. It's nice to have the Jordans here as my new President and his wife. But like always, I will miss the Calls. They were super nice to me. President Jordan and his wife are super sweet. I felt so bad for them their first couple days here. It's been a little rough for them. But they have been great troopers. They got here Thursday in the afternoon and I think they were up 'til 2 or 3 in the morning with the Calls reveiwing everything they had to do. Then they were up first thing at 6:30 in the morning going at it again. At about 10ish Sister Jordan goes, I just have one question: I know we aren't in the states, but is there any food that can be bought to go, or something along those lines? But I was wondering why she was talking about food. Then she mentions to me that she nor President Jordan had eaten anything since Utah. They really hadn't had anytime. I was like of course. Let me run to Subway for you guys. She had a huge smile on her face and was like you can do that? i just chuckled. So they were finally able to eat something.</div>
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That same day we finally received the 2 iphones we had been waiting for. President Jordan and his wife will each have the new iphone 4s. And it was my responsibility to get them up and working and switch all their contacts and everything from their old blackberry over to the new iphones. The only problem was time. So I got them the chips they needed for their phones, made the calls to get them up on line, and I was told within the hour they would have sevice on their new phone and their old blackberrys wouldn't. Well they left with the assistants to go to Victoria, about 3 hours away. They said within the hour their blackberrys were out of service, but the iphones didnt have service. Oh no, I thought. This isn't good. Everything is falling through. As much as I tried today to talk them through a few things on the phone to try to do, they still don't have service. S o hopefully when they get back into town tonight, I can fix the problem. Wish me luck. Haha.</div>
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Well the work here in my area unfortunately is not going the way we want it to go. Probably because of the lack of time we have had to spend in it. But fortunately there is a brother in the ward with his wife that left to France this week, will be getting back in 2 weeks, and then we will be having a baptism. We also have found through the same brother in the ward a friend of his who is super interested in the Church. We hope to see him and his family be baptised very soon.</div>
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Things are going great. a little warm, but that's not new. Elder Flores and I are doing well. I love you all and miss you tons.</div>
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Love,</div>
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Elder James Cox</div>
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P.S. attached are some pics of last sunday when we got together with the Calls for their farewell. We had rootbeer floats. Super Good!</div>
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</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069903255268743203.post-39111798795092474642012-06-21T14:34:00.002-07:002012-06-21T14:35:06.087-07:00Elder Cox's Fourth Letter As Finance Secretary<br />
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Hey family and friends, (Editor's note: I'm leaving the syntax as is. It's such fun to see how immersed Elder Cox is in the language)</div>
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How're things going? Things here in Mexico are going well. We only have a week left with President Call. Then in a week and a half comes President Jordan. Wow! is there ever a lot to do on my part. I've been super busy as the secretary of finances part. As for the missionary work, well we have seen some miracles. We have a member, actually he is one of the counselors of the bishopbric. Well anyway he invited us over to talk to his wife who is not a member. They have been married now for 3 years. He is in his late 50s and this is his second marriage. So the missionaries had passed by for him before and tried to teach his wife but she had said no to a baptism. So we thought we would try again. That was a year ago when this all happened. This time we watched a little movie called 'Only a Stonecutter'. It appears in the Doctrine and Covenants videos. And we were able to have a great Family Home Evening. All ended well. A week or so passed by and we stopped by the shop of the husband. We were talkiing to him when he had a friend that we met there. We invited him to hear the message and he accepted. Also he told us that his wife had been thinking about baptism, and wants to be baptised right away. Wow! we thought.</div>
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So we made an appointment and stopped by to talk to her. She was very excited and knew that her (previous) baptism wasn't valid, but that she needed to be baptised by immersion by someone holding the priesthood. That was a cool experience. So we talked to her about it all and we are preparing to baptise her this next Saturday. What a miracle!</div>
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Also when we talked to the friend of the brother in the ward, we found him to be a great guy. Not only that, but he wants to learn more and loved the lesson we gave him. He has a wife and two boys, twins of the age of 12. So we are excited to teach this family. I believe we will see much success with them.</div>
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I love you all and thank you for your prayers. </div>
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Love,</div>
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Elder Cox</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03376465100312463026noreply@blogger.com0