MotHeR's daY PhoNe CaLL!

Last Saturday night @ 9:30, we were able to talk to Elder Tulane during the annual Mother's day phone call. The phone call lasted about 3 hours and we all took our turns running our jaws! Thanks mom for sharing your coveted time with us! Here are some of the things that we learned in our discussions:

* Currently there are 75 Tongan elders, 25 Caucasian elders, and 16 sisters serving in Tonga.

* Their mission slogan is "The Tongan Way". Stan has adapted this slogan for his personal benefit to be "The Lords Way". He is trying to learn as much as he can both in the gospel and the language. He is relying on the Lord to shape and mold him while on HIS errand.

* He has found himself teaching and speaking with the Spirit more and more often. He tends to take a step back afterward and acknowledge the Lord's hand. He recognizes that it is not him speaking, it is the Lord guiding him.

* He just got a new companion. He really likes him. Even though Stan has been out a full month longer, he is the junior companion. Stan said that the mission president has a lot of faith and trust in his new senior.

* His new area is much closer to the city. There are more people and much more abundant and better food. He told us that he currently weighs 170 lbs, (that is less than he weighed in high school). In his last area, he ate just enough to get by, but is catching back up quickly and thinks his weight will even out soon!

* The Tongan people are very giving people. They offer more than they have frequently and Stan has politely declined such offers. Although his intentions are pure, he often has received the "you're too good" comment. He says adjusting to the Tongan culture has been a little difficult.

* He has access to this blog and looks at it every so often...so, Stan let me know if there is anything you would like me change or revise!

* And of course, Stan and Mitch talked lots of football and UFC. Typical brothers!


Stan sounded AWESOME! He has definitely matured. We were lucky enough to get a few hours just catching up. We love you Elder Tulane! Our prayers are in your behalf constantly! Continue to rely on the Lord and he will continue to bless you!