Mission Memories in Japan

Okay, so the BYU Weekly piece on me is finally going to be shown in one week. As they were finalizing the last finishing touches, they wanted some photos of me, including ones from the magical days in Japan. They scanned them and then e-mailed them to me. I've never taken the time to scan these, which I should. Each photo has so much behind it. Sometimes I can't believe Heavenly Father trusted me enough to give me such an incredible experience. It was indeed the "Best Two Years" ... until Elizabeth and the girls came along. Come join me on this stroll down memory lane...



Here is my MTC district as we all met up together for the first time in Japan...nearly 1 1/2 years in. This was a mission conference where then Elder Eyring was our speaker (and chastised us a bit, but that's a story in itself!).



Nothing is more beautiful than the sakura, or cherry blossoms. This is the month before returning home. My companion, Elder Jones, and I had had a busy few weeks (we were serving in the mission home) and we took a few hours off (after missing a P-day or two) to go to a downtown Tokyo park to take it in. Amazing.



Here I am with TJ Gallini and his wife Kaori. He was a member who met his wife while serving in the military. We got a phone call out of the blue, asking us to come teach her the discussions. Within two months, he was able to baptize his wife. Elder Lewis, one of my favorite companions, got transferred the week of the baptism, so that was bittersweet. Still, a great experience. I hope the Gallinis are doing well!



The day before flying home. So many emotions were going on in my head. It was fun to return home with three of my companions- Elder Palmer (MTC comp), Elder Bishop and Elder Willden.



Just a fun photo with Elder Latham (from my home stake in Orem) and Elder Palmer, one of my closest mission friends.

I love my mission!