Excerpts from his handwritten letter received on Saturday, Jan 14th.  This Monday will be his last day in the MTC. 

First of all, I depart January 17th, very early in the morning.  I CAN'T WAIT!!
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So - and please share this with everyone else - (consider it shared)  I accidentally hugely mixed up all my letters, so I don't know exactly what I already replied to and what questions were asked.  But because of the way DearElder works, I have a bunch of puzzle pieces to those letters without the time to put it all together.  So I am SO SORRY if I don't reply to someone.  I promise to be more organized next week.  Also, just to be clear, I read and love every letter.  So if I miss something - please don't stop writing me!
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I can't wait for music in the field!  Just so you know, I'm bringing more music to the MTC every day though in the meantime.  Elder Kohl and I have started singing hymns every night in the dorms (I'm getting better at just making up harmonies on the spot) and Elder Eliason and I take turns beat boxing while the other sings Primary songs.  If you bring  the spirit, I say it's OK. :)  Lately, I just want to sing hymns all the time.  I love being myself, but also being a servant of the Lord.  I believe He wants me for who I am, and I can serve Him best by not forgetting that.  Thanks for reminding me.
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When I read Ether 6:3 I thought the stones also represented the scriptures.  I still think this is true.  However, it has also taken on new meaning.  I am just a 19 year old kid.  I am just a stone.  But the Lord can touch me so I can bring light to men, women, and children so they don't have to cross the great waters in darkness.  The Lord uses the low and weak to show His strength and power.  I am honored to represent Him and humbled at the same time.
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I miss you all, but I know I'm serving you most by being here.  It may be a cliche, but I'm not from Utah ... so whatever.  But I really believe that it's a small sacrifice to give up two years with my family so others can be with their families for eternity.

Elder Lonas