Week 26- Letter #27

Tue, Aug 14, 2012 at 1:10 PM

Hola, ¿Como estan? I had divisions with some of the other missionaries. Every missionary is supposed to have 2 divisions every transfer and we hadnt done them yet. Last week being close to the transfer we had to change 2 times within a short amount of time. The man that tripped was sick last time we passed by and we werent able to see him since. V is doing pretty good. We actually werent able to talk to her much but we did one day. She told us that M returned and said that he wants to hear more about the gospel and get married and after be baptized. Yeah the people here were just taught to do things that are of the world and not exactly things that will help them in the long run. Family T is a less active family with the wife as an investigator. They have gone to church 2 out of the last three weeks and the wife is actually going to be baptized after they get married (Kinda like the M and V Situation). The first baptism was awesome. It was soo cool to think that I helped in the change of this persons life. She was baptized by the person who brought her to the church the first time. His name is Hermano E. I actually cant go on the blog. As missionaries we are limited to lds.org, Email, and mormon.org. This week was the last week before transfers. On Tuesday we were able to bring one of the members with us to see some of our investigators. Each responded well and the member added a strong testimony. On Wednesday I had my first convert that came from playing basketball against him. We were able to play a short game of 2 on 2 and after he told me, with a glow of pride and joy, "I speak English." We talked a little bit in English and then set up an appointment for next Tuesday. He told me that he had been working in United states for the last 20 years making roofs, and had one time talked to missionaries. He should be a great investigator. On Thursday we had a meeting about the new changes with how the members need to help more in the missionary work and the Elders should do less finding and more teaching. On Friday we actually received some referals. But sadly they were not in our area so we cant teach them, but we passed it on to the other missionaries. On Saturday we spent the day with one of the assistants to the president because we are the area closest to the offices. He had divisions with another missionary but he would not arrive until late. It was cool to spend a little bit of time with him too and learn from him. On Sunday we had the Family T at church again, and 42 people in total there. They talked about the new plan in Sunday School and the importance of attending the temple. I also took some last pictures just in case I was going to leave the area. On Sunday night I received the information that I was going to be transferred to a small ranch in Durango. I arrived Monday night and met my new companion whose name is Elder Cortés. He is awesome it should be an awesome transfer. I love the area too. It is really cool. !pues hasta luego¡ Espero que les gustan los fotos. Elder Corbin

Week 25- Letter #26

Mon, Aug 6, 2012 at 3:12 PM ********************************************************************************************************* Photos 1. My zone of the last change. 2. My past district 3. Us eating with a member 4. Last minutes with Elder Camarillo as my companion 5. Elder Andrade

***************************************************************************************************************** Hola, This week was great. On tuesday we had divisions. I had one of the leaders with me on this day. I learned a lot from him. He really knows how to teach and how to bring people to Christ. I was able to learn from him in many different ways. We were able to talk with V on this day. She got really emotional as she explained to us that M had left her and that she was jobless and had no way to pay for food or anything. We talked to her about why the Lord gives us trials. We also received 2 referrals from a member and were able to teach them with the member. Wednesday we went with V again and put a date for her baptism for saturday. She accepted. We began talking about how the baptism would work and any questions she had. After we went and taught the T Family. The dad is a "fighter" and had been baptized about 30 years ago but went inactive. We were able to share a message with them about the Atonement. They accepted it pretty well. Thursday we had divisions again. I went to another area to teach with another missionary. With the help of the Lord we were able to find 2 new investigators for them within an hour. We had the interview for the baptism of V and also a couple other things to prepare for the Baptism of V. On Friday we did all of the final things for the Baptism of V. We got the white baptism suit, and talked with the bishop to make sure all of the details were set and all was ready for the baptism. He told us that everything was ready and that we just need to show up at 2 on Saturday for the baptism. We also went and talked with V a little bit to see if she had any final questions. She told that M had come that day and that he wanted to return. She told M that she couldn't do that because she was going to be baptised the next day and that it is against the rules of the church to live together without being married. It was cool to hear her confidence and desire to be a member of the church. On Saturday we had the Baptism of V. It was cool to see her be cleaned of all. It was kind of wierd to think that I had a part in helping her become a member. One of the members at the baptism was able to tell her that there is a job that she can have is she wanted. She gladly accepted. On Sunday she received the Holy Ghost and was confirmed a member of the church. What a cool experience to be part of. I know that this is the true church and that it is the only way back to Heaven and to happiness and eternal life. I hope all continues to go well for you all. Les amo, Elder Corbin

Week 24- Letter #25

Mon, Jul 30, 2012 at 5:16 PM Hi, Dont have much time today either. Things went great this week. We were able to have an investigator go to church on Sunday and now he is able to be baptized. We are going to see what happens this week. We also talked with V, and she said that M had left her. So right now we are seeing and planning on if we are going to baptize her this week of if we should wait until they are married. We were also able to help a family paint their house in a couple different rooms, and move furniture for them. I really enjoy the mission and am continuing to learn more everyday. I know that this is the true gospel and that Jesus is our Redeemer. I know that this life is only preparatory for the life to come after death. For this, I know that challenges are but small things, and as it says in the scriptures when Jesus spoke to Joseph Smith, "that thy challenges shall be but a small moment." I hope all is going well at home and that they continue to go well. adios, Elder Corbin

Week 23- Letter #24

Mon, Jul 23, 2012 at 1:37 PM Hola, ¿Como estan? Im glad this week went well for you all. Im glad that camp went well and that Eliza was able to have a friend with her for the camp. Im glad Brett and Conner are having some learning experiences and that Dad was able to find another job. Thats awesome. I have not received a letter from Jacob but it might be at the offices. I'm not sure. I asked one of my leaders if Grandma and Grandpa could write me from email and he said that that is fine. A couple questions for you all. When does Brett return from California? Have you guys recieved the Birthday cards (those are really usefull by the way. Thanks Mom and Aunt Shell!)? This week went pretty good. On Tuesday we went with V and she told us that M says that he is not sure if he wants to get married, and that it is a huge responsibility. We are trying to find a time when we can go and talk with him but they werent there this week when we went to the appointments later in the week. We also found a man last week who we challenged to read the Book of Mormon last week. He told us on Tuesday that he read a little bit of the Book of Mormon and went to bed one night and that in the early morning he woke up and was walking in the dark and tripped over a toy and hurt his elbow and was left with a scab there. He told us that it happened because he read the Book of Mormon the night before. We were able to explain to him about how Satan works and that he will do all he can to make people believe contrary to what is true. We challenged him to read again and he accepted. On Wednesday we went with a less active family and read a chapter in the Book of Mormon (Moroni 10), and then talked about what was said in the chapter to help them understand better. We also helped a sister paint her house. On Thursday we contacted a lot. We were able to find a couple people who are willing to listen about the Gospel. We shared with them the plan of salvation and they both accepted it pretty good. On Friday we helped the Sister finish painting her room that we helped her start. It is a bright yellow on 2 walls and the other 2 are solid orange. Quite the choice of colors, huh? On Saturday we talked to the Bishop about the plan that we have for the missionary work in the ward. We were able to talk a little bit about who we could focus on to bring them back to the church. On Sunday we went to church and we saw V there but not M. Overall a pretty good week. I am so grateful to be a missionary and I know that this is the true church and that Thomas S. Monson is the Prophet of God on the earth. I hope all continues to go well for you all. Les amo, Elder Corbin

Week 22- Letter #23

Mon, Jul 16, 2012 at 7:47 PM Hola, So your going to girls camp huh? That's awesome. Where are you going to be going for that? It sounds like things are going pretty well down there. So the address that we give to our parents for mail and all that is to the offices. There they are distributed to our leaders in a monthly meeting. After that they are distributed to the individual missionary. So, quite the process huh? ha,ha. I asked the leaders if I have received a package though and they said yes. So I haven't received it yet but they said I should receive it in the upcoming weeks. That's cool that Jake is going to Texas, and Spanish speaking. About the emailing me from Grandma and Grandpa.... I'm not sure but I will ask and let you know next week. This week was pretty good. Its funny because the kids here don't know English of course, but there are a couple words that they do know and they are proud of it. So every time they see me in the street they say "Hey man!" Just a random thought about my area. haha. On Wednesday we went and invited a Priest of the ward to go with us to contact different houses. He came and was pretty well prepared. He told us that he had gone with the missionaries after and that he was already planning on serving a mission. So that was pretty cool. We also talked to Vanessa on this day. We did the questions for baptism with her and she passed all of the questions too (Besides that they aren't married). Thursday we went with one of the deacons in our ward to the appointments we had. He did great, answering little questions here and there as we went to the different appointments. On Friday we were able to help one of the members with a talk that they were going to be giving on Sunday (and it went great on Sunday). We also contacted for most of this day. On Saturday we were able to go with the deacon again to our appointments. It was a good experience because he and his mom wanted to do a fast for the first time so we helped them out with their questions and teaching them how they should do a fast. On Sunday we went to the district meeting expecting a change but our district leader told us that we would be staying in the same area even though we don't have a mission leader. I'm excited for the challenge to do all we can to get the ward excited for this new change to have the members be missionaries. Today we went to a buffet for the first time. It was pretty good. We spent 2 hours there in intention to eat all the food in the restaurants but sadly we weren't able to achieve that goal. I am grateful for the gospel and for the Savior in my life. I'm also great for you all and all your support on my mission. A couple questions. When does Brett return from his work in California? How is Conner's reading going in the Book of Mormon? Les amo, Elder Corbin

Week 21- Letter #22

Mon, Jul 9, 2012 at 2:38 PM ¡Familia! ¿Como estan? Its pretty wierd to think that I already have 5 months seems like not much time ago that I was at home leaving for the mission. Time has definitely flown by. I would like to go to the temple but we cant go because it is not in our mission boundaries. This week was a little wierd because I had 12 weeks with Elder Camarillo and we changed on Monday. His name is Elder Andrade. He is from Tampico Mexico area. He has 15 months in the mission and lots of baptisms. We went to M and V's on Tuesday, but only M was there. We talked with him about the questions for baptism. He passed with all of them except that he is not married. We are still trying to work with them to get married. We also talked with 2 families of less actives. They said that they would be going to church on Sunday. On Wednesday we had another meeting with the Mission President as a zone. He said that we are going to be changing so that we will be having every lesson with a member and that we would be focusing on helping the less actives and looking for references and to focus on them too. References from members are important because that is where most of the baptisms come from. He said that we would not be contacting anymore until October. He also said that if we don't have a ward mission mission leader and a ward council that we might be moved out of our area. So I might be moved because with our little assistance to church we don't have members that can take these positions. But this doesn't start until next week. Thursday we looked for more less active members and invited them all to the church on Sunday. We also asked them why they weren't coming anymore. Friday we went with one of the members from the ward to look for more less active members. We had some success but a lot weren't there. Saturday we found a new investigator that we are hoping will be able to keep the commitments that we give her, but she goes to a different city every Saturday and Sunday where her mom lives. We also helped someone paint their house and clean the house too. Sunday we didn't have any less active members or Investigators but we are going to work even harder this week so that we have some. I have a question- Where is Jacob going for his mission? I hope that all turns out well this week. Les amo, Elder Corbin

Week 19- Letter #20

Mon, Jun 25, 2012 at 3:30 PM Hola familia, Te llamo Michelle! Excelente! My pants are working out great! It actually says on the pants machine wash cold but I didn't see that... haha. About every week we sweep and mop. We don't have a vacuum though, or carpet. Normally no cleaner just water. The lady with the bread business did agree to pay tithing. I am not sure if the business picked up or not. We almost always walk. I think only one time we had a ride. haha. We got our gas fixed and so now we have a stove. We made pizza on Thursday and it turned out awesome. I normally eat cereal though. I also bought Nutella and crackers for another option. I haven't received the package yet but I think it will receive it in like a week or two. Thanks for the package. Yeah the change of companions was only for a day. I am still with Elder Camarillo but we change permanently on Monday. Well for a person like you described I would start with the restoration and work through the other lessons, meanwhile giving her commitments that will help her personally. M and V are not married. This is the thing that we are waiting for. After they are married they can be baptized. We are hoping that they will begin to have a desire to be married. They have a 3 year old and a 1and a half year old. Yeah the bed that I have my feet just dangle off the edge. Tuesday we had a lesson with M and V. We talked about the Commandments, and lesson 3 the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They took it pretty well and understood it pretty well. Wednesday we had an appointment with M and V too but they had to go. So instead we went to a part of our area and contacted. On Thursday we went with some less actives and some recent converts and shared some scriptures and made pizza. On Friday we talked with our Bishop about what we could do to better the ward. We also found 2 new investigators. One of them plays the saxophone for work and travels to USA for every weekend to play. Saturday we went and did some service for someone in the ward by mopping and sweeping a house. We also went and talked with a recent convert. Its weird to think that this is the last week with this companion but we will see how it goes with the other one. Adios, Elder Corbin

Week 20 - Letter #21

Mon, Jul 2, 2012 at 6:20 PM

1- We bought protein 2- Studying and my preparation for the day. 3- My first Zone 4- Me in front of the entrance sign to Torreón. Hola, Im glad things are going good, and I will keep dad in my prayers and that Utah and Colorado get rain. This week was the last week with my Trainer Elder Camarillo. On Tuesday we went to a couple less actives in the ward and talked about how their testimonies could be strengthened if they do things like read the scriptures, pray, and go to church. They accepted it pretty well. On Wednesday we had divisions. We went and visited with J and shared a message with him. After that, we Contacted and then we went with M and V. We talked with them about some of the commandments like the law of chastity, tithing, and fast offerings. We asked them if they would live this law and they said they would. On Thursday we went with one of our investigators and talked with him about the plan of salvation and how it helps us. On Friday we returned with M and V. We talked about The word of Wisdom and The Sabbath day. They accepted to live those too! We finished the day by contacting. On Saturday we went with some recent converts and helped them with cleaning their house. We mopped and swept. After we helped them make tamales! It was really hard at the start (for the first hour, haha) and after that I was able to do them much easier. Afterward we went with other less actives. On Sunday we went to church and M and V were there. They are beginning to gain strong testimonies and I cant wait to see them join the church! Sunday Night we received a call that Elder Camarillo was going to go to Zacatecas and I was going to stay in my area, and that Elder Camarillo would be leaving early Monday morning. He left this morning and I picked up my companion Elder Ändrede. I love being a missionary and am very grateful for the opportunity to serve. I know that this is the true church and that we are on this life to be tested and we will receive consequences. I am so grateful for my family and I love all of you. Pues hasta proximo semana. les amo, Elder Corbin

Week 18- Letter # 19

Mon, Jun 18, 2012 at 3:53 PM Hola, This week was pretty good. On Monday I had the chance to prepare by doing laundry and cleaning the house. We also did some contacts after. Tuesday we had the chance to go to a less active member in the ward she said that she was having struggles with her store for bread. She said they were hardly having any sales. We shared a message about the importance of paying tithing and about when we do all that we can to be good people God will bless us. We then went to M and V but they were going to leave because they had received a free car and were going to do some errands and to fix something on it. They said that we wouldn't be able to come back until tomorrow because M was going to leave for his Wrestling tournament. On Wednesday we had the opportunity to go to San Juaquin that is about 30 minutes from our house but is in our area. We hadn't searched for investigators for a while from there so we decided we would go there and find people. We also visited with some less actives there who had attended church last week. On Thursday we went to an Hermana in the ward to help her out with some service, and for the rest of the time we looked for new investigators. On Friday we had divisions. This is where we change one missionary for another missionary of another companionship. I went to the different area and Elder Camarillo stayed in our area. It was a little weird to not have the same companion that I had had for 10 weeks but it was a good practice for when we change. On Saturday we went back to San Juaqin to see the people who we had made appointments with from Wednesday. We weren't able to find many of them in their homes so we went to the less active members of that area who had gone to church the Sunday before and they said that they would be able to go to church on Sunday. Sunday we saw the less active members from San Juaqin there and also V and her 2 kids. We also had our district meeting to end the day and weekly planning. So yeah a pretty good week and it will be even better this week. I am so grateful that we have the restored gospel of Jesus Christ on the earth. I am so grateful for the Prophet and the General Authorities who lead and guide our church. Hope everything continues to go well! Les Amo, Elder Corbin

Week 17- Letter # 18

Mon, Jun 11, 2012 at 4:44 PM Hola, How are you all doing? Sounds like the Lord is blessing our family. My shoes are holding up very well, and beginning to wear a little bit, but hardly. My feet are doing great. Thanks for the package. I think everything will work out fine. I have had many spiritual experiences up til now, but I think that the most spiritual was the experience we had with the rain. I really saw that as a huge miracle. I am not sure if I lost or gained weight because we don't have a scale but I think I gained a little bit. Thanks for the answer, and yeah that makes sense- I will be washing my pants next week. Last Sunday we had a family of 4 come to church (except the dad). The parents names are V and M. They are a family that lives in one of the places of a member. We set up an appointment to come and teach them. On Tuesday we went and we talked a little bit about the gospel with them, or lesson 0 as it is called by missionaries, where we have introductions and tell them a little about what we are going to talk with them about. After that we set up an appointment to return and to share lesson one with them. We also had a Zone Conference this same day. At this conference we were instructed of a new change for all the missionaries around the world (at least I think its all around the world). We were instructed because of the increase in technology in the world, with more and more people using internet, to start becoming familiar with Mormon.org. So we were then instructed to start going to the internet cafes at least 2-3 times each week besides Monday to familiarize us with Mormon.org. It was kind of weird this week to go to the internet cafe on a day besides Monday. haha. We were also instructed to make a profile. So on Thursday I put up my profile, and plan on adding more to it in weeks to come. We also taught M and V on Thursday and Friday. Saturday we spent a lot of time searching for new investigators. Sunday at church we had only one family come to church who are investigators...M and V! They are really progressing really well. Im so thankful that we were able to find a family that is beginning to progress. We will see what happens with them in the future. Les amo, Elder Corbin

Week 16- Letter # 17

Mon, Jun 4, 2012 at 4:51 PM Hola, How are you all doing? I received the letters from the Crockett's and DaeNeese. Thanks for those. I have a question for DaeNeese. One of the Elders asked me about if it was ok if he wrote you? He asked me what she would think and I said, "I'm not sure". He said, "ask her if its ok if I write her". ¿Que te parece? I have a couple questions for mom too. Should I wash all my church pants in the washer? We don't have dry cleaners anywhere near. I thought about it and then I thought about how much it ruins them and then I thought, "I should just ask mom". And to be in the newsletter I need to write a different part for the ward every 3rd Monday? Last week I was going to finish the story but I thought about something else that I needed to say that I didn't want to forget. So I thought that I would write it and then return and finish the story but I forgot!! haha. Sooo... The next day we woke up and it was raining. It was pretty cool. So this week we were asked to really stress service. We went to less active members and looked to see if we could do anything to help them. We found some good opportunities. On Wednesday we found some less active members who said that they hadn't gone to church in 6 years and we asked them if they remembered why they were baptized. They said that they weren't sure. We talked them about the importance of coming to church after and read some scriptures about persevering until the end. They said that they should be able to go to church. Thursday we went to a member and mopped a "Salon de Fiestas" and swept it. Saturday we swept the front of someones house and mopped it. This morning we took out a bush in front of a members house and put in a tree. Today we also ate burgers for breakfast and then after we had a zone meeting. We received our jerseys that we had payed for, of the Soccer team Real Madrid, with our names on the back of them. It looks pretty cool. I, of course, chose number 5. We also played steal the flag and a little bit of frisbee after. After that we had more burgers! It was a good week. We also had the opportunity to do a lot of contacting. We found a lady who when we contacted her asked us where the church was and when it started. We told her and gave her a Book of Mormon. On Sunday we didn't see her in church and we went back to her house. She told us that she wanted to give it back to us because she thought that it was the only book that we believed in and that it was to take away from the Bible. We explained to her a little bit about the Book of Mormon and she was relieved because she said she really wanted to read it. Adios, Elder Corbin

Weeks 14 & 15 - Letters # 15 & 16

Mon, May 28, 2012 at 5:11 PM Como Estan? Sounds like pretty good! It was a huge week for you guys! How awesome. And you have another big week this week. Life is packed. I am so excited for DaeNeese. She will have a great time down there. Those were some pretty cool pictures too. Looks like Brett had a pretty good court of honor and Senior ball. How awesome that Conner and Bronson started a business. That should be pretty cool, and good for Conner. I didn't know that we put some foot cream in with my things. haha. I will use that then. I would like to share with you a miracle that happened this week. We have an investigator that is 12 years old. We asked him to pray about whether the church was true, and he said he would. When we returned he said that he prayed and felt that the church is true. He then said that he wanted to know for sure for sure. He asked that it would rain the next day. It did...I was amazed to hear this. I know that our Savior lives and loves us. I know that he is watching over us and protecting us. I love all you guys and will talk to you next week. Les amo, Elder Corbin ************************************************************************************************************** Mon, May 21, 2012 at 2:57 PM Hola! Yeah I cant wait till I can read Brett's patriarchal blessing. I bet it was an awesome experience. I am really grateful for the opportunity to have my patriarchal blessing to guide me and give my life direction. Ok so I will be sending the memory card to you next week, and I didn't bring everything for my camera to send pictures to you but next week I will. I will prepare to give advice for Christmas time. It does sound like a big week for you all. Lots of big events coming up. So both of those houses across the street are going to be empty then? Pretty crazy. So Brett's liking his work then? That's good. And 3 nights every week isn't too bad. That's cool that they offered him a position when he returns if he wants. Yeah that's a good idea for Brett to work until his mission. That's awesome that Eliza and you are having a good time. That should be fun to go on a camp out together. I remember going on camp outs with dad. Those were always a blast for me! Right now we are working hard to find those people that are "chosen." The people who Heavenly Father has prepared for us and who are ready to be baptized in the church. We don't have any baptismal dates yet but we had the opportunity to take Jacobo to a baptismal service on Saturday and we are hoping this is going to get him excited. It is a pretty slow area, but I know that we are going to find those people that are ready. President Flores is expecting more from us. He wants us to have 30 baptismal dates each week. We are going to try all we can to achieve this goal. I don't have many challenges. Some times I get tired but not for long. I just focus and forget about myself. I am having a BLAST here. I have not been eating much bananas but I will buy some. My letter address is Ernesto Brede #301 Col. Amp. Los Ángeles Torreón Coahuila CP 27148. Packages get sent to a chapel. It is the central chapel for the mission. The address is: Elder Brandon Corbin/Mexico Torreon Mission / Calle Ernesto Breede #301/ Col. Ampliacion Los Angeles/ 27140 Torreon, Coahuila/ Mexico. I know that this is the true gospel and we can all live eternally if we persevere until the end. This includes going to church, praying keeping the commandments and things like this. Les amo, Elder Corbin

Week 13- Letter # 14

Mon, May 14, 2012 at 5:05 PM Hola! How is everyone doing since yesterday [Mother's Day call]!! Haha. Yes it was way good to hear from everyone and how you are all doing. It was good to be able to talk to everyone individually. Everyone seems like life is awesome. About the advice I gave everyone, I know that if you all do these things that you will find yourselves closer to the Savior. So I was wondering if I should send you the memory card with 300 things on it or the one that I took pictures on? I was so grateful as well to the lady that let me use her computer. So any new news from between now and yesterday? Did skype cost anything for you guys? its free right? Whats Brett's work schedule like? When is the Camp for you and Eliza? Saturday we had the opportunity to just search for new investigators. We were able to talk to many people. With each person we had the opportunity to talk to them a little bit about the church and tell them why they would want to listen to us. We also had the opportunity to bear our testimonies. I believe that it is crucial that we bear our testimonies often because this is a great opportunity for the spirit to work on them and soften their hearts. Well I would just like to say that I know that this is the true church. I know that our Heavenly Father loves us more than we can imagine and that he is always there for us whenever we need a little help or we are feeling down or like we are alone. He is there. He answers our prayers. I know that he has restored his church through Joseph Smith, and that if we listen to the counsel of the prophets we can live happier lives. Even though at times it may be hard to follow the prophets counsel, I know that in the end it will all be worth it. All of our efforts to do what is right and to follow the path will be worth it. I am so grateful for you guys and your examples for me. I love all of you sooo much and I pray for all of you every day. Love, Elder Corbin

Week 12- Letter #13

Date: Mon, May 7, 2012 at 4:45 PM

Hola! Como esta? Yeah, its so awesome that you are able to be out of college and be able to choose a career. So you have decided to choose to start a new business for Insurance? That´s awesome. I know that whatever you do you can find success. I have always known you as one who loves to work with people. I'm glad that you are able do choose a job that you like and are going to continue to enjoy. I am so grateful for your example in these things. That´s also pretty awesome that you now have time to do other things too. I enjoyed Chapter nine of Jesus the Christ. What I got out of it is that even though Jesus was of God, he still had his father Joseph on the earth. I liked how it said that even though he was not the literal son of Joseph he still chose to obey him, setting an example for all of us to honor our father and mother. So Basically we wake up at 6:30, exercise and prepare for the day, then at 7:30 we eat breakfast. At 8 we begin our personal study, until nine. Then we begin companion study for 2 hours. After that we have our language study and then it is off to our appointments and contacting. That's cool that you said that you were able to look back in your journal and remember things from your mission. I was just thinking about this the other day that this is going to be something I can read with my family and others and I will have it for all my life. I know that our Savior lives and loves us and that Joseph Smith is a prophet, and am grateful for it. Hope all continues to go well with your business and all else. Le Amo, Elder Corbin Hola! I will be calling you at about 7:00 our time. Im not sure when it is your time though. I will be calling you and having you call me back I don´t really know why but that´s what they said to have you do. The fiesta looked like it was a ton of fun! Even with authentic mexican music and piñatas and all huh? Sounds like it was some pretty good food too. It is a great opportunity I have to study every day for hours and not to mention learning more throughout the day. Yeah the mission is an awesome experience. That´s awesome that DaeNeese is close. My guess (of where she will be called to) is Argentina. Brett's [Eagle is]official then huh? Muy bien! Thats cool that the Geo is running again. Conner's always had the creative mind. I´ll have to hear how he made it [a trailer for his rider mower] on Sunday. I saw all of the pictures that you sent me and they all look pretty awesome. I am not sure who M.S. is right now but it sounds really familiar. I will ask you about this on Sunday too. That´s awesome that she has a new friend though. That´s kind of wierd to think that the Corbins won´t be across the street. That will definitely be different. I can´t wait to hear about Dad´s job, and the details. Thanks for sending me some garlic! I'm sending you a picture of me and Chad. I hope you get it. We have met many people this week who were afflicted and who were in need of a blessing. It was really cool to give them the blessings and to see their faith in action and the change in their lives. It was really awesome to be able to have the authority to help those people who are in need of help in their lives. I really know that this is the true gospel and the way back to heaven and living with our families forever. I know that if we do those things that we are asked to do we can recieve this gift. It was good to hear from you and I will talk to you on Sunday. Les amo, Elder Corbin

Week 11- Letters #12

Mon, Apr 30, 2012 at 9:55 AM Hola!! (To dad) QUE EXELENTE!!!!! Sounds like it was an awesome graduation you had dad. Its crazy that you graduated and I know that you will find a lot of different options from graduating from college, and not to mention much success. I am grateful for your example to graduate from college. I really enjoyed the chapter (in Jesus the Christ) too. It was full of awesome facts. I really liked the part that explained when the birth of the Savior was. I really think it was made clear.I liked how it explained the part that said "in the commencement of the year". I am trying to teach through the spirit and trying to have the spirit with me and I think I will be able to do this more as I have more time in my mission and can understand better. It is difficult for [investigators] to go to church especially since we have church at 9 am. My area is pretty big. We hardly use public transportation because of the cost and because we need the exercise. I think my Spanish is coming along pretty good. I enjoyed your testimony too. I know too that this is the true church and that we can repent through the atonement of the Savior. Love, Elder Corbin Hola, Yeah it was weird when I ask him [his comp], "what do you do for the 5 of May/" he said "what is the 5 of may?" But i think it is just the American celebration of a war. But you should definitely still do it. Try Jaimaica. It is a juice. You might like it. I think it's pretty good. It is different though. Yeah, we normally eat pizza like once every other week. Not much. I usually wake up at 6:30 then I eat and get ready. After that I study language and doctrine until 12:00. Then we go teach and find new investigators. We then normally return at like 9 pm and plan for the next day and then go to bed. It was good to hear an update on everyone. Sounds like things are getting challenging, but I know that if anyone would be able to take these challenges, it would be my family. Keep pushing on and I know you will be blessed. Also, the Lord is always there for us. This is one thing that I have learned a little bit about, and am continuing to learn about each day. I feel that [our family] devotionals helped me prepare for my mission by learning to devote time to the Lord. Each day we would spend time that we could have been sleeping to talk about gospel topics, and to learn doctrine and give thanks. So in a summary it taught me to love the Lord and prepared me to spend all my time, 24/7, [devoted] to the Lord. I enjoyed what you said about the scriptures and oh how true it is. The scriptures have every answer you would ever have a question to. We actually aren't teaching any families as of right now, but I will tell you about them when I begin teaching them. There are mostly just individuals that live alone and maybe are dating someone. I am able to exercise a lot and I am trying to eat as much healthy food as I can. That would be awesome if you could send me more garlic. I would definitely take it more, if not every day. I love you all; adios! Elder Corbin

Week 10- Letter #11

Mon, Apr 23, 2012 at 3:55 PM Buenas! Sounds like everyone is doing pretty good. That sounds pretty cool- a Cinco day Mayo party. Apparently in Mexico they don't do anything for Cinco day Mayo. My companion is from Mexico City and said that they usually don't do anything. Maybe its just an American thing. But yes, I love the food here, it's very spicy. The pizzas here even come with little hot sauce packets just in case you want hot sauce on your pizza. Haha. Thats awesome to hear that Brett has a job at DQ! Sounds like a pretty fun job. Does he get free ice cream and shakes?!? Thats cool as well to hear about his Eagle and that he is in the Priest presidency with Riley. Im sure that they both do great jobs in their positions, and have great unity. So DaeNeese is progressing with her papers then? Thats pretty cool. It will be cool to see where she winds up going. Conner tried out for philharmonics? Did he make it? That's cool that he goes and plays in the after school games. Sounds like Eliza is doing well too. Yeah, Family devotional has definately helped me. It has given me the day by day spirit to help me in the long run to have the spirit with me. Do you still have family counsel with the N.'s? So are you enjoying the calling to the Stake? I only talked to the man with the hurt knee once (Jacobo is his name), because we had splits this week on the one day that we had an appointment with him. But we asked him to be baptised this coming Saturday and he said he will pray about it. We will see what happens with that. We walk a pretty good amount each day. Im not sure how much exactly though. Every day is pretty hot though. I put on sun screen most days, but sometimes I forget. that's no good to hear that Sis. B had to have surgery. I sleep well every night. I actually haven't made anything besides cereal haha. We usually eat at members houses. We have a couple stores nearby equivalent to a half of one maceys grocery store. We walk everywhere. I actually took a taxi the first day but that was because I had suitcases. We havent really seen any sights yet though. I have been pretty healthy. I have enough garlic to take one every week so I have been doing that. I will go look at the store though to see if they have more. I also eat my vitamins every morning. It was good to hear from you. I hope all continues to go well for you guys. It sounds like life is pretty exciting with everything going on. Les amo, Elder Corbin

Week 9- Letters # 10

Mon, Apr 16, 2012 at 7:53 PM Hola! My address is Ernesto Berde #301 Col. Amp. Los Ángeles Torreón Coahuila CP. 27148. My companions name is Elder Camarillo, and he is awesome. My apartment is awesome. We actually just switched after the first week! Pretty funny. But yeah Ill be sending the card w/pictures of it probably next month. My mission president is awesome but I have only seen him like 4 times. not much. His wife is pretty cool too. Everything is awesome. The food is really different than the mexican food there, and at times it is tough because I am so full and I cant eat any more but I have to eat it. Lots of walking too. Love you guys! ALSO... Mon, Apr 16, 2012 at 8:18 PM Hola again! It is awesome to hear from you guys!! Sounds like everything is going awesome!! So did I call you guys on Spring break? That's awesome to hear that Dana is engaged!! Muy Chevere!! Disneyland huh?!?! Sounds like a blast! Thats cool that you got to see the Turner's too. I actually don´t have my camera with me but I will send it next month if thats okay, when its full. Or if you want I will bring it next week. That's awesome to hear about your calling mom!! You'll do great! That's good to hear that Conner has a job, and that Brett is in the search. That's cool to hear about Eliza too with her growing tall. Pretty cool. Yeah I will try to send cards but if all Preparation days are like today I'm not sure if I will be able too. But if you could wish Ashlyn and DaeNeese a happy birthday from me that would be awesome. Sounds like everything is just very awesome down there. Thats good. But yeah I love the food down here. Very Spicy. There is so much work to be done here. We only have 17 active members in our ward out of 35. We actually already have 3 baptism dates just from this week though. I can see the spirit's hand in helping us out in finding these people. On saturday we were knocking doors when we came accross a man who kind of interested but not sure. He said that he would think about going to church the next day when we invited him. He later told us that his knee was hurting him and that he was not able to walk much. We offered to give him a blessing and he accepted. The next day at church we are just hoping that one of our investigators would come in but no one was coming. With about 10 minutes in I looked at the entrance and he was standing there looking for a seat. We welcomed him and sat by him. He later told us that after the blessing his knee began to be much better and he WALKED to church! What a miracle!! There are so many awesome things like that here and they continue to happen. I know that this is the true church and that we can all receive eternal life if we are righteous. Love you guys!! Elder Corbin

Week 8- Letter # 9

Mon. Apr 9, 2012 at 4:20 PM Hey! Just letting you know that we are in Torreon now! It's awesome! It's kind of weird to see all the billboards be in Spanish but I will get used to it. Here is a picture of the President and I. Our pday is on Monday too just to let you know. LOVE YA!!

Week 7- Letter 8

Fri, Mar 30, 2012 at 1:15 PM ¡Como estan! What a crazy week it has been. At the beginning of the week I got assigned a new companion who had hurt his ankle named Elder L. His district has all left and he has to stay behind until his ankle heals. How rough is that huh? He is taking it pretty well though. It was weird though because I went to physical therapy with him at the Utah health clinic (the place where I was checked monthly for my ACL). It was weird to be out of the MTC for a little bit. But he is going to be reassigned on Monday to work with the missionaries who work on fb and referrals. Yes, I have seen David Archuleta. It was kinda weird, I was expecting him to be sort of tall but he is only like 5'3, and when I saw him I just thought, "Is that really David Archuleta?". Pretty funny haha. Anyways, I am so pumped for conference!! I can't wait. There are always great messages in conference. I would like to challenge you guys to have a question before going into conference and listen for an answer during it. Just to let you know I am not in the MTC choir so don't try too hard to look for me. There are some people in my district who are in the choir though. Probably the most exciting part of the week though, is yesterday I came into class to find a paper on my desk. I looked at the paper and found out that I am going to Boise on Monday to sign the VISA and I will be leaving on April 9 to Torreon!!!! I am so excited!! I was really shocked to see that my visa is there. Anyways how are you all doing? I will be sending the picture card on Monday and hopefully that should get to you soon. It was good to hear from you! Les Amo, Elder Corbin

Week 6- Letter # 7

Fri, Mar 23, 2012 at 2:18 PM Hola, Hows everyone doing? It is good to hear from you. That is crazy that Brett and Conner have their liscences! That's muy chevere! I do remember his project! haha I don't know why but I couldn't think of it last week. So thats good though. Thats cool that he is making progress, and really close to the end. K yeah so I will send the pictures to you guys, and continue in the system. Aparently things get stolen out of mail from Mexico sometimes, so would you like me to continue that in Mexico? You guys got the treadmill huh? Thats cool! Yeah everyone says that they don't understand how I eat so much and be that skinny. And I continue to stay pretty much the same weight. That's pretty cool to hear a little about B. How is his situation with going to church and stuff? I remember that when I left they were trying to be his friend and help him come to church and stuff. Yeah thanks I got the picture. Looks like you guys had a blast! I used the Debit card and it worked. I havent heard anything else about finances though. That's awesome to hear about the lesson for FHE this week. The one for this week is Humility. Just a reminder it is in row from preach my gospel. That was awesome to hear about the Joyfully Read potential!! That is really cool. Especially coming from that guy. How are Josh and Justin doing? Does Blake still hang out with Justin? That was nice of you to help out with the Wilson's wedding. Thats cool that the Neeses got a new dog too. Do they like it? I also wanted to wish Brett a happy Birthday and hope he enjoys it. Oh and thank you for those awesome cookies! they were way good!! If you ever have any extras lying around, don't hesitate to send any to me. ;) I have felt the Savior's love for me and that he cares for me during this MTC expereince, and I have had my testimony strengthened. I love all of you guys and hope all continues to go well. Nos vemos, Elder Corbin

Week 5- Letter #6

Fri, Mar 16, 2012 at 10:11 AM Hola,
How are things going for everyone?? It was good to hear from you. So Brett and Conner will both have their licenses by the end of the month huh? That's pretty cool. That's pretty awesome that Brett has almost completed his Eagle. I can't send pictures because they have the computers highly secured, but if you want me to send you guys the memory card, I would be glad to do that.
That's crazy that Grandma and Grandpa are leaving that soon. So whats the plan for Jeff and Shell? Sounds like you had some pretty fun birthday celebrations. So the Geo battery died? Have they tried to tighten the bolt on top of the battery? Yeah that would be pretty cool if I could get the feedback from Thomas and the loss of his dad. That would be really hard. It sounds like he is placed in a good spot though with his companion being in the same boat with the loss of his dad. But it was Grandma Corbin's birthday? how did that go? Well that's pretty cool mom that you are picking up the piano. That should be awesome. As far as the fasting weekly thing, we were told to not have our family fast more that necessary. So no need to fast every week. Thank you though.
I just wanted to share an experience that we had with teaching a "Progressing Investigator" named Ariel. We taught him a little about prayer and how to pray and then at the end of the lesson we asked him to pray a couple lessons ago and he wouldn't do it. We tried a couple more times asking if he would pray but he kept coming up with excuses of why he couldn't pray. Ending the lesson we just decided to say the prayer. Astonished we thought of what we could do to get him to pray next lesson. We thought the next lesson we would just teach him only about prayer. Cringing, at the end of the lesson we asked him to pray, and with a little bit of hesitation he began to pray. It was an awesome experience.
I would just like to bear my testimony that I know that this is the true gospel and that we are so blessed to have it in our lives. I know that Joseph Smith was a true prophet and that he did restore the gospel to the earth. I love you guys, I pray for you and hope you all are doing well.
Love,
Elder Corbin

Week 4- Letter #5

Fri, Mar 9, 2012 at 10:18 AM Family,
Happy Birthday Mom as of yesterday! How was your birthday? Did you do anything awesome? Did you have parfaits for breakfast?? or belgaim waffles? How are things going for everyone? It was good to hear from you guys. Im glad the room switch is going well. That is not very good news to hear about elder Larson's father. I hope he is doing alright.
So yeah the topic for this week is charity and the one for next week will be virtue. So if you could just maybe look up a little bit about it and share with me that would be awesome. But they are in preach my gospel. That is the order I am going in so you could follow by that.
Mom, I have been taking pictures but I wont be able to send any out until I get out in the field. I will probably send all of them the first day I get out there. To tell you a little more about my companion he was home schooled and has been playing piano since he was seven and is pretty good. He just got accepted to BYU for piano skills. He tries to play whenever he can. But yes I recently got a haircut. I exercise 5 out of 7 days. I got the calling of senior companion. I have only gained 5 pounds I guess because I burn it all off playing basketball.
Dad, that's awesome that you're almost graduated!!!! I'm so excited for you!! That is sooo cool. That's awesome that you have all A's. I hope the job search keeps getting better for you. How did the "Jesus the Christ" reading go this week with chapter 4? I especially liked the part on pg. 33 (at least in my book, I'm not sure if it is the same page in yours) that says "that by the Word, who was with God, and who was God even in the beginning, all things were made," because a lot of the time people get confused about how Jesus and Heavenly Father are separate beings but that explains a little bit of why. It continues on to say that Christ was "God the Creator". Explaining a little more why he is called God sometimes. I really liked how they shared how some of the scripture names are present day names and what they are.
One that I really that was awesome is how Jesus' name is Joshua in current day names. I did not know that. I also really liked the part where they explain the meaning of Jehovah on page 36. It says it is meant to mean "Lord," and also meaning "Self existent One or the Eternal." Just some awesome parts.
Well it was good to hear from you guys. I just want to let you know that I know that Jesus is the Christ and that Thomas S. Monson is the prophet of today and that Joseph Smith did restore the gospel. In the Name of Jesus Christ amen. Until next time. Adios!

Elder Brandon Corbin

Week 3 - Letter #4

Fri, Mar 2, 2012 at 9:44 AM Hola!
How are things going? Crazy weather huh?? I can't believe the weather this year! Totally random. It was good to hear from you guys. Thanks for the cupcakes. They were quite delish if I might say so myself. Let me tell you guys this week was pretty awesome. We had the opportunity to have Elder Holland come to the MTC!! It was an awesome talk. It really motivated me a lot to become a better missionary. He talked a lot about strengthening the investigators testimony in the Book of Mormon. It was just amazing! I am just super excited for conference now! It is so awesome to hear that DaeNeese will be going on a mission. That is pretty cool. Keep me in the loop with that. I definitely want to know more about that.
Jesus the Christ just keeps getting more awesome. I find the footnotes especially useful! haha. The words he uses just have such significant meanings that you can go pretty in depth into them. The notes at the end I have also found especially helpful. It was good to hear from you guys!
Elder Corbin

Week 2 Complete - Letter #3

Fri, Feb 24, 2012 at 10:42 AM

Hola,
Happy Anniversary! Sounds like it went pretty well. That's pretty cool. Congrats to Brett on the great coaching job. So the season is over then huh? What was his final record? That's awesome that Eliza got first place. She must have done very good to get that place. I didn't hear anything from DaeNeese?? What's the exciting news??? That's too bad about Grandma Curtis and I hope Grandma Neese is doing okay now. But yeah Grandma Curtis is definitely in a good place probably happy. Thats a pretty funny story about Quinn! haha. No its not preach my gospel its from anything where you can find information about that subject. The subject for this week is hope. I'll be putting some stuff in the letter next week about hope, and that would be awesome if they would too. Thank you for getting the address for me and I was also wondering if you could get me Brandon Nichols address from Eliza's phone. BTW how is Eliza liking the phone? does she use it often? Does she text a lot? and How is everyone taking the room switch? That's really nice of the Nichols to contribute to my mission. If you could tell them thanks that would be awesome, and I will be sure to write them as well. My companion is pretty cool. He is fired up about the work and is ready to go. Just to let you guys know there IS Blueberry Muffin Tops cereal!! I was pretty excited about that. So I switch around with Marshmallow Mateys in chocolate milk, and Blueberry Muffin tops. Yeah so things are going great down here. I can't complain at all. It is just an awesome experience. I can't wait to get out into the field though. It will be even more awesome.
We started TRC yesterday and we did pretty good. I don't know if Dad used to these as well but it's where you teach members just any lesson you feel you should teach. It is pretty good practice. The language is coming along pretty good. We don't have the ambassadorship class though. So how did you like the second chapter of Jesus the Christ? I thought it was pretty cool. It is pretty much pure genius how Talmage comes up with these words to describe his life. The book just keeps on getting better. I would just like to bare my testimony that I know that this is the true church and I know that this is the best thing I could be doing at this point in my life. I am grateful for all you guys do for me and hope all is going well. I love you all. I hope you are all just enjoying life and taking it one step at a time. I look forward to hearing back from you guys!
Love,
Elder Corbin

1st Week Complete- Letter #2

Fri, Feb 17, 2012 at 10:31 AM

Hola!

How are things going back home? How is school going for everyone? How is everybody taking the bedroom switch? How is Rileys bball going? What's new? Thanks for the cookies and the manicure set. It will come in handy. I bought some floss on i think it was Monday. Friday is my preparation day. It was Saturday last week though because it was the first week. But it should be Friday until I leave the MTC. I would like to extend a challenge for Brett and Conner especially, but if anyone else would like to join that would be awesome. I am going to be studying a specific topic each week and I want them to study with me and give me input on what they learned about that subject each week. That would be awesome if they would do that. If you could ask them if they would want to do that, that would be awesome. Also do you think I could get the Henrie's address because I accidentally threw away the address that was on a package from here and I wanted to write a thank you to Sister Henrie.

The best way to contact me though, at least in the MTC, is through the dear elder services because I get those letters during the week so I can read those whenever. For email though I can only check that on Preparation days. It was a great to hear from you and I will talk to you later.

Adios!

Elder Corbin

Write Brandon through via email @ DearElder.com!

They print and deliver these letters daily. Instructions:
Go to: www.dearelder.com
Select: write a letter (tab)
Letter selection: "Provo MTC" (drop tab choice)/ click "write a missionary"
Fill in: "envelope" with your address info, then his-
The only info you need is his mailbox number # (266), mission code (0409), and estimated departure date (April, 2012).
Type: your letter in the box provided, then click "send letter"

It's wayyy easy and fast!

Send a same day-delivery Package for just $3.00!

If you're in the area you can send Brandon (or any missionary) a package via UPS store on University Ave. (3214 N.) just west of us by Magleby's Fresh (on the south side stores). They deliver to the MTC daily (if you get there before 2 p.m. and charge only $3.00 for up to a 5 lb. package. Just take the info. for DearElder with you- his mailbox number # (266), mission code (0409), and estimated departure date (April, 2012) No address required.

Brandon's First Report...Sat., Feb. 11th- SO EXCITING!

Sat, Feb 11, 2012 at 9:46 AM

How are things going for you guys? Things are going awesome here! I love doing this work. I have been enjoying the MTC alot. Each day I get better at being a better missionary and am learning many things. Preach my gospel is especially useful. It has everything you would ever need to serve a mission, at least pretty close to everything. My companions name is Elder Nicholson and he is pretty awesome. He is from Waterbury Connecticut. He was converted about 6 years ago and is very excited about teaching the gospel. We get along pretty good. We have started teaching our first mock "investigator" and just taught our first lesson yesterday. His name is Pepe. We are going to be teaching him another lesson manana. It was difficult to understand most of the questions he asked us but we were able to answer some of them. We taught him about the restoration. It was an awesome experience even though we didn't really know how to say much ha ha. I have no complaints or regrets everything is awesome and even better than what I expected. It has been great and I have been told that it just gets better. I haven't been taking much pictures but I will start taking more. We have been given the challenge of reading the missionary handbook by sunday and I am close and should make it. I had to get the Typhoid shot down here at the MTC on Friday, but I think I am ready to go immunization wise. Its crazy because about 90 of the Elders going to Mexico couldnt get their visas and were temperarily going to be serving in the Los Angeles California and Boise Idaho Missions. Dad, I started reading Jesus the Christ but haven't finished the first chapter yet. Im sure I will finish it by our next preparation day. So far though it is just a great intro and I am really interested to read more. So does next week sound good to talk about the first chapter of Jesus the Christ? Hope things are going well back home. Love you all and hope every thing is going good back home.

Hasta Luego,

Elder Corbin

Brandon's Mission Contact Info.:

For all who would like to contact or send a package to Brandon, here's his MTC address:

Elder Brandon Enoch Corbin
MTC Mailbox # 266
MEX-TOR 0409
2005 N 900 E
Provo, UT 84604-1793

Thank you for supporting him! He says he's doing great and that the MTC is even more awesome than he thought...that's pretty awesome!! ; )

Fun farewell gathering...

January 29, 2012...Only 10 more days!!
Brandon's farewell talk today. We had lots of family and friends to see him off. We even got to meet some of his friends from SNOW College. Eliza was asked to be the youth speaker as well as Samuel Thrupp. They both did a great job. Bro. Dorton from our bishopric finished up the meeting with a very emotional talk shared on the worth of a soul and gifts and talents. After the meeting we headed over for our brunch where we served over 60 people. Aunt Becca and Camille, Grandma and Aunt Kim and Uncle Spencer helped provide goodies and drinks. Aunt Shell was the photographer. Following are some of the pics. Not pictured (had to leave after the talk) were- Crockett family, Wayne and Isabel Lee, Mark Lyons, and probably others that I (mom) didn't notice. The Carter's next door as well as Cornilles family came over for a few minutes to wish Brandon the best. Grandma and Grandpa, Uncle Jeff and Aunt Shell-bug and family stayed to visit with us til evening. It was a very nice day. Not even sad!! ; )