August 29, 2006


  • Dear friends, family, and anyone else who reads this thing,


    Just so you know, my brother is at BYU now, if any of my friends at BYU still read this, write me a letter so I can have you meet my brother. He is really cool.


    I write from a new area, the Creekside Ward (Walnut and West Covina). I was suddenly transfered here yesterday. It was a surprise to all, but I am thrilled to be here. This morning, for example, we rode our bikes over to see a nice couple in Walnut. They may be getting baptized in November. We went to trim their hedge. If any of you know what it is like to trim a hedge in a white shirt and tie in 100 degree weather, it is not fun. To find relief from the heat, I would step back across the street into the shade and make sure we were cutting evenly. Many passerby's stared.


    While I was across the street, I noticed a street side reading, "Camino de Rosa". I knew that was familiar. Camino de Rosa Camino de Rosa. Hmm. Oh yea, that is where a dear friend (Brother StWd)'s mom lives. I was so excited. I ran in and asked this couple how long they had lived here. They said since 1950. I asked if they knew the StWd's. They did. I was so excited. Their kids had gone to school together. Here I was where Brother StWd had grown up. As a young adult he joined the Church. Later he moved to Chicago where I was his hometeacher and he was my Young Men's President. Coincidence?


    I know God lives. This past weekend I heard an Apostle, Elder Holland. I shook his hand. I looked into his eyes, and I saw the countenance of Jesus upon him. I wrote down many of the things that he said and will share them with you next week. I testify that he is a special witness of Jesus Christ. It was wonderful to have him speak in Stake Conference. It was just so awesome.


    Well, I must sign off. Please stay in touch all you people. So many things are changing. Don't leave me out of it! Marriages, Mission Calls, School. I miss my old area and companion, but am excited for what the future brings. Life is grand,


    Elder Embree


    P.S. I am happy, but if being depressed will make you write me more letters, I won't hesitate to write you a nice long sobful xanga entry.