the list

[lanjoh]

It may sound funny, but i want to buy a jacket and don't know whether to buy a more dressy, long coat (the kind that go down to the mid-calf) or is something else recommended? What are most of the guys wearing out there? By the way, my name is John Landon and i report to the MTC on January 23. I am so excited about it. But anyways, the info on the jacket would be helpful. Oh ya, and i realize that in my packet it recommends that missionaries should purchase their over coat in the field, but since im entering the MTC in the winter, I'm pretty sure i'll need a winter coat. I live in Cedar City, Utah so i know how cold Utah can get! anyways.. the info would be greatly appreciated!

[dlwerden]

My son, after interviewing many Bulgaria RM's, decided to get the 4 in 1 jacket that they sell at the Missionary Mall in Provo.  It has a detachable liner and is about a 3/4 length.  He was told not to bring a long "dressy" coat.  He arrived in BG last February and said that the coat was fine and kept him warm.  He was grateful, too, for bringing a couple pair of thermal garments with him.

[Brinton]

Good thinking on a coat for the MTC, it does get cold in Provo!  And it will still be chilly when you get to BG two months later.  I would reccomend on your coat too, one that will clean up easily, or one that has some sort of stain guard on it.  I just remember the hem of my coat always being muddy at the end of the day, and sometimes dogs jumping up on my front...not so fun, but it can happen.

I also second taking a couple pairs of thermal garments.  I wore them over my regular garments, and they were so warm!  Being from AZ and a sister mish, warmth was essential for my happiness.

[alstoddard]

Hey John! I am also reporting to the MTC January 23rd going to Bulgaria. I'm sure I will meet you there. My name is Amber Stoddard and right now I'm living in Logan. Ü

[Richard Davies]

Amber,
That's interesting. I think there was an Elder Stoddard serving in the mission when I was a missionary...

[alstoddard]

hmm. That's cool. I wonder where he was from. I'm probably in some way related...aren't we all?

[lanjoh]

right on guys. that helps a lot. i was already looking at that 3 in 1 jacket at missionary mall too. another question.. will i be in the MTC for 2 or 3 months? oh and amber, that's rad that you'll be leaving the same day. i know a couple others that are leaving the same day too. I am so excited!

[Blindspot]

Perhaps just to be contrary, but I hate those 3-in-1s.  Yes, they are warm, but they look (imho) silly.  And I don't see many Bulgarians wearing them.  Come to think of it, not many Americans wear them.  I am from Pennsylvania, where it does get cold and I bought a nice long black wool coat.  It was plenty warm, although it didn't have a detachable liner or all those goofy buckles and straps. (which are a real hassle.)  Don't get leather or anything really flashy.  The wool coat is still with me and I wear it to Church every Sunday.

As for thermals, I brought one pair and very rarely wore them.  Our winters were cold (and I entered the MTC in December) but I found I was overheating, especially when would be invited into a home.  Your experience may vary, and it's better to be safe than sorry.  A couple of pairs may not be a bad idea.  They were especially nice when doing service in the cold.  Winter is coming on fast here now, and I haven't even considered putting them on.  The only time I've put them on in the last two years was when I went sledding on Vitosha (mountain.  Which if I'm not mistaken, is not an approved activity for missionaries.  There are some benefits to being a "civilian")

Whatever you decide, good luck and may your preparations guide you here safely.

Blindspot

[lanjoh]

thanks blindspot and i'll deffinately take your input into consideration. i would think it would be important to fit in with the locals.