Your Brand New Cousin

January 9, 2018

Dear Benjamin,

I really enjoyed your last letter. It had a sense of happiness and humor to it that came through really strongly. This is coming from someone who knows how difficult it can be to make a living as a writer, but you have a talent. What ever you decide to do for a profession, your ability to communicate will be a giant advantage.

Your cousin Camille had her baby the other day. Its a baby girl and is the spitten image (what a weird colloquialism) of Camille. Here name is Reese, and of course she is adorable. Everybody is fine.

Okay, let me get all of my annoying questions out of the way.

Question 1: What was this mystery elders name? Where was he from? It would be fun for you to keep in touch. Your mission is one of those times in your life where you have the potential to make great and lasting friendships.

Question 2: Departure date communication. There are rumors that while you await your flight at the airport that you are allowed to call home. Those same rumors also say that the best way to do that is via a burner phone, which we would supply to you ahead of time. I’m dubious of those said rumors, they seem to be skirting the rules. If you have been given that direction however, Of course we would love to hear from you and would be happy to prepare and send a phone to you.

Question 3: How many of your companions are awaiting visas? Wow, they could be at the MTC for a while.

Well, hopefully that wasn’t too painful. As far as sports updates, the Jazz are now sub .500, with lot’s of injuries, including Rubio and Exum (I know, hard to believe huh). Donavan Mitchell is up on his point average, but seems to be making much less of an impact on games. They say he’s rushing his three to much. I think defenses are keying on him. 

The Utes still haven’t named the OC yet. Rumor has it that it will be Hardin, a guy currently on staff. I also heard that they may be looking at Andy Ludwig, the OC during the historic 2008 season. A lot of people then wanted him gone back then. Just goes to show you how ignorant the average yet vocal sports fan can be. On the positive side, the Utes had four seniors that had potential to leave for the draft early. Moss, Fotu, Blackmon and Anae are all coming back. The Utes are widely favored to take the south again, with Oregon (boring) favored in the North and favored for the conference. Mariner decided to transfer. He ended up sixth in receptions and an overall under achiever, so I don’t thing that anyone is too disappointed.

I had my first Bishopric meeting last night. I seemed to have been at least somewhat useful. I’ll be going to Young Mens tonight, though I don’t know what exactly I’ll be doing. I have Temple Recommend interviews tomorrow and mom and I are speaking on Sunday. I still blame you. Better this than you being less awesome I guess.

Well elder, just know I love you and you occupy a large portion of my thoughts.

Love

Pops