¡hola! ¡buenas tardes! Padres, Hermanos, Hermanas y amigos! hey HEY hey!
I don't even know where to begin! This week has been FULL! Full of changes, full of newness, full of miracles and testimony builders, full of gratitude and full of GOOD SPIRITS! I consider myself so blessed. The Lord has blessed me SO much.
My Companion: Hermana Kemp. She is going to take me running every morning, going to make me take a run for my money with my Spanish..as I'm now the one who knows the most Spanish, and she is going to help me sprint towards all the goals and expectations that I have for this new sector and time in my mission. She has been out 2 cambios (3 months-ish)...so we're just going to work, work, work, until we learn and progress and feel the Spirit of the Lord...so we can be HAPPY!
My Sector: Agronomia, it belongs to the city of Chillan (ah-groan-oh-me-ah--that one's for you mom). If I thought Hualqui was hot, I hadn't gotten to know the heat of Chillan. Very dry, utah summer heat. It's the most "city-ish" sector that I've been in. It has an ABUNDANCE of blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, peaches, and melons. I bought a whole bushel of raspberries for 2 dollars. There are incredible people here. My ward is going to be very different from the last...attendance is anywhere from 35 to 85, depending on the week. I spoke in sacrament meeting for the second time in my whole mission this past week and sang in their Christmas choir and played the piano. I'm excited to pick up the excitement and spirits of this ward...they have such big potential!
MIRACLES! Just for example, a teenage girl named Sarita has been sharing with the Hermanas for a few weeks, keeping all of her compromisos, but still not feeling the Spirit testify to her that she needed to be baptized, especially only after a few weeks. But, with the help of an amazing accompanying member the night before her baptismal date, the spirit touched her heart, deeply. The member bore her soul as she explained the extremely difficult times that she had been through, and how the Book of Mormon, the gospel, and the Savior had completely changed her life; we had to keep the surprise from our mouths and eyes as Sarita said, "me bautizo." It was such an incredible experience to see her heart soften, and her vision of Heavenly Father and her own worth expand, and her own desire to follow Christ was pulled from inside. There is no other way to do this work without the Spirit. We won't mention how the next day was like a mad house planning the baptism and putting everything together...but every little thing just fell into place. God definitely needed her to get baptized this day.
photos:
-we had a mission Christmas concert this week. It was really special. Me and my new compa. Warriors unite in another hemisphere.
-yes, for the christmas concert this past week they said you have to wear all black and find a santa hat, or you can't participate in the choir. "no negro, no coro" (the lady to my left, Hna. Mercedes, was the first sister missionary from Chile--she went to Paraguay and is really cool)
-baptisms! The other sisters we live with, Hna. Sieverts and Hna. Risco, for the first time are not in the same ward as me. But, same chapel. They also had a baptism!
-Sarita!!
God lives. His gospel has always been taught to His children so that they could be happy, so that they could believe wholly and completely in their Savior and be saved from their own doubts, fears, challenges, sadness and insecurities. He is so powerful and fighting for us everyday. He makes things happen if we believe in Him and do everything we can. I know this church is true!
I love you all so much! I hope you have a very merry merry Christmas and I'll talk to ya soon!
Hermana Nuevita
p.s. as far as the phone call...we have church in the morning for 2 hours and then we're working. But we can take an hour break to talk to you. I'm 4 hours ahead of you....but let me know when you'll be around :)
Friday, December 30, 2011
Monday, December 26, 2011
After Six Months in Hualqui - I head out tomorrow to a New City
HELLO FAMILY!!
Well, I guess the biggest news I have to offer you, is that after almost 6 months of being in Hualqui, and about 4 with Hna. Bustinza....The Lord figured it was about time that I get a taste of something a little bit different, with different people. I'm "getting changed" as Mitch would put it. Even though, I do have to hand it to him; he definitely gets the prize for being changed the most. I'm headed out from Hualqui tomorrow to a new city in the zone of Chillan Ãuble....and my new companion is going to be Hermana Kristen Kemp! I'm really excited about all the new things I'll get to experience, with all of the new challenges and joys. However, you might imagine that it's gonna rip my heart out to leave this little pueblito and my little Peruanita hijita. We've grown really close and we've learned a lot about how to teach and how to do missionary work. There's still so much that I want to learn how to do and so much I need to apply still....but I know if I just hit the road running and we work really hard, the Lord is going to bless me. He is SO AWARE of us. And of each one of His children. He knows exactly what everyone needs to grow in His way. To grow to be more like Him. It surely is through Christ that we can accomplish anything in this life. I have really learned how sacred is His name, and how much love He has for us. I really am learning and gaining a stronger testimony of the BASIC principles of the gospel each and every day.
There were a few tender moments this week that need to be mentioned as well:
The heat got really intense this week. I broke out into a fever one night. Hna. Bustinza nursed me back to health with a lot of cold rags. And, she shared with me all of the cures she ever learned living in the far out country with her grandparents growing up. I refused to pee in a bucket so that she could wipe it on my legs to take down the fever. However, in the morning, when my throat hurt a little bit, I did drink the raw egg yoke that was mixed with fresh squeezed orange juice. Not gonna lie, it totally took any pain away that was in my tonsils. huh. Mom...don't worry! I'm completely fine and I learned my lesson.
Also, this week we had stake conference, and we were able to bring to church the family that we found. They are so beautiful. There's a picture attached. The next time you see them in front of the chapel, they're going to be dressed in white. I'm just sure of it. Just like every family they have their own struggles and problems, but if they haven't been prepared to accept the gospel all together, I don't know who has been. They are so loving and beautiful. I'm giving strict orders to Hna. Bustinza to take good care of them :) And I have complete trust in her.
I guess all will have to wait until next week until I can give you any further details.
I hope all is going well at home! Hope Mitch can adjust and love his new sector! and I hope Curt doesn't line up on the stairs, that would just be really sad. I hope Jed and Amanda put up really cute pics in their house. and CONGRATULATIONS to Clinter. That's so AMAZING. Aw. I am so proud of you. Mom and Dad I love you very much!! xoxo
Love,
Hermana Chil
Well, I guess the biggest news I have to offer you, is that after almost 6 months of being in Hualqui, and about 4 with Hna. Bustinza....The Lord figured it was about time that I get a taste of something a little bit different, with different people. I'm "getting changed" as Mitch would put it. Even though, I do have to hand it to him; he definitely gets the prize for being changed the most. I'm headed out from Hualqui tomorrow to a new city in the zone of Chillan Ãuble....and my new companion is going to be Hermana Kristen Kemp! I'm really excited about all the new things I'll get to experience, with all of the new challenges and joys. However, you might imagine that it's gonna rip my heart out to leave this little pueblito and my little Peruanita hijita. We've grown really close and we've learned a lot about how to teach and how to do missionary work. There's still so much that I want to learn how to do and so much I need to apply still....but I know if I just hit the road running and we work really hard, the Lord is going to bless me. He is SO AWARE of us. And of each one of His children. He knows exactly what everyone needs to grow in His way. To grow to be more like Him. It surely is through Christ that we can accomplish anything in this life. I have really learned how sacred is His name, and how much love He has for us. I really am learning and gaining a stronger testimony of the BASIC principles of the gospel each and every day.
There were a few tender moments this week that need to be mentioned as well:
The heat got really intense this week. I broke out into a fever one night. Hna. Bustinza nursed me back to health with a lot of cold rags. And, she shared with me all of the cures she ever learned living in the far out country with her grandparents growing up. I refused to pee in a bucket so that she could wipe it on my legs to take down the fever. However, in the morning, when my throat hurt a little bit, I did drink the raw egg yoke that was mixed with fresh squeezed orange juice. Not gonna lie, it totally took any pain away that was in my tonsils. huh. Mom...don't worry! I'm completely fine and I learned my lesson.
Also, this week we had stake conference, and we were able to bring to church the family that we found. They are so beautiful. There's a picture attached. The next time you see them in front of the chapel, they're going to be dressed in white. I'm just sure of it. Just like every family they have their own struggles and problems, but if they haven't been prepared to accept the gospel all together, I don't know who has been. They are so loving and beautiful. I'm giving strict orders to Hna. Bustinza to take good care of them :) And I have complete trust in her.
I guess all will have to wait until next week until I can give you any further details.
I hope all is going well at home! Hope Mitch can adjust and love his new sector! and I hope Curt doesn't line up on the stairs, that would just be really sad. I hope Jed and Amanda put up really cute pics in their house. and CONGRATULATIONS to Clinter. That's so AMAZING. Aw. I am so proud of you. Mom and Dad I love you very much!! xoxo
Love,
Hermana Chil
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Stronger in the Work - Happier to be Here in Hualqui...
hey-low! (love your spanish greetin' mom, very indearing)
How great it is to hear that you're all doing great! The only thing that helps me believe that another week has flown by already, is that I feel stronger in the work, I feel like I understand a little bit more about our Savior, and I feel even happier to be here and serving the people here in HUALQUI!
Some unique things that happened this week: I ate a lot of cherries, I survived blistering heat and a crazy rain storm in the same day, I practiced Spanish carols with a bunch of gringo missionaries for a Christmas devotional they're putting on, I ran into an inactive that said she left the church because it was too hard to be Mormon and required too many errands and paperwork to go to the temple, I cut down on my bread intake, I learned the word for stutter, and I repented of a lot of things that were not helping me or the other people I talk with come to Christ. --Good week.
We're still fighting for a lot of really great investigators to enter into the waters of baptism. I know that through them making right decisions and allowing the Spirit to guide their thoughts, hearts and actions, they will be able to receive a remission of their sins and enter into a covenant with their Heavenly Father. Repentance and the Atonement are becoming a lot more real and a lot more applicable in EVERYONE'S lives as I understand more and more what Christ actually did when He suffered and died for us. What dark sadness enters into the heart when you see someone choosing to not accept Him.
a little of what I wrote to president this week...
How incredible is this gospel of Jesus Christ!? Daily, weekly and monthly, my love for my Savior and for this Work grows and deepens. Up until recently in my life I feel like the "gospel" in and of itself, either because of my upbringing or my life's experiences, was only a lifestyle. A Way that brought the most happiness and joy. As I am given the opportunity to testify of my Savior, to defend His commandments and His Church, and ultimately apply His redeeming grace in my own life, I realize it is much more than not judging or not drinking alcohol. His Gospel, the way to return back to Him, is set out beautifully and perfectly. It is set out in such a way that I, as a very imperfect, flaw-filled human being, can change, in and through Him.
Repentance, the incredible gift of love that He has offered to us, is the only way that we are really to progress unto perfection. As I invite people from "ground zero" to build their faith in our Savior and change from their heart outward, I realize what is required to produce the lifestyle and experiences that I have had all of my life. It is only through Christ and His true and restored gospel.
This week I have realized the importance of VERIFYING the extended commitments, to help people in their repentance process. Also, I have felt the grief that comes from seeing people who are just not willing to keep their commitments, repent, and come towards their Savior so that He can give them the power, strength, and love in their life to make them complete.
----love you SO MUCH!
Hermana chilly willy (who knew that chilly willy is a cartoon penguin. found that one out this week)
How great it is to hear that you're all doing great! The only thing that helps me believe that another week has flown by already, is that I feel stronger in the work, I feel like I understand a little bit more about our Savior, and I feel even happier to be here and serving the people here in HUALQUI!
Some unique things that happened this week: I ate a lot of cherries, I survived blistering heat and a crazy rain storm in the same day, I practiced Spanish carols with a bunch of gringo missionaries for a Christmas devotional they're putting on, I ran into an inactive that said she left the church because it was too hard to be Mormon and required too many errands and paperwork to go to the temple, I cut down on my bread intake, I learned the word for stutter, and I repented of a lot of things that were not helping me or the other people I talk with come to Christ. --Good week.
We're still fighting for a lot of really great investigators to enter into the waters of baptism. I know that through them making right decisions and allowing the Spirit to guide their thoughts, hearts and actions, they will be able to receive a remission of their sins and enter into a covenant with their Heavenly Father. Repentance and the Atonement are becoming a lot more real and a lot more applicable in EVERYONE'S lives as I understand more and more what Christ actually did when He suffered and died for us. What dark sadness enters into the heart when you see someone choosing to not accept Him.
a little of what I wrote to president this week...
How incredible is this gospel of Jesus Christ!? Daily, weekly and monthly, my love for my Savior and for this Work grows and deepens. Up until recently in my life I feel like the "gospel" in and of itself, either because of my upbringing or my life's experiences, was only a lifestyle. A Way that brought the most happiness and joy. As I am given the opportunity to testify of my Savior, to defend His commandments and His Church, and ultimately apply His redeeming grace in my own life, I realize it is much more than not judging or not drinking alcohol. His Gospel, the way to return back to Him, is set out beautifully and perfectly. It is set out in such a way that I, as a very imperfect, flaw-filled human being, can change, in and through Him.
Repentance, the incredible gift of love that He has offered to us, is the only way that we are really to progress unto perfection. As I invite people from "ground zero" to build their faith in our Savior and change from their heart outward, I realize what is required to produce the lifestyle and experiences that I have had all of my life. It is only through Christ and His true and restored gospel.
This week I have realized the importance of VERIFYING the extended commitments, to help people in their repentance process. Also, I have felt the grief that comes from seeing people who are just not willing to keep their commitments, repent, and come towards their Savior so that He can give them the power, strength, and love in their life to make them complete.
----love you SO MUCH!
Hermana chilly willy (who knew that chilly willy is a cartoon penguin. found that one out this week)
Monday, November 28, 2011
Blessings, Blessings, Blessings!
Blessings blessings blessings. How grateful I am for every blessing that the Lord has given to me. Even though I didn't even get close to eating a turkey or orange roll or pumpkin pie this year (even though it might have slipped out of my lips that I was craving a good Thanksgiving dinner) I am simply and truly grateful for so many things that I am experiencing, learning and obtaining each and every day here in a country where they don't understand this foreign holiday.
However, Hna. Brady did make me a nut cup decorated like a turkey.
Some things that I can really recognize coming to me from my Heavenly Father:
-a pathway to do the work that He has commanded me to do. I've seen when I really have the desire to do the things that He has asked me to do, and I try my best to do them, it's like I'm walking in the path that He's already cleared (instead of trying to do things my own way and having to fight through all of the rocky, brushy, itchy stuff).
-happiness that comes from progress and changes. Even if it does come through the "refiners fire."
-Understanding and ideas of how to help the people in our sector.
-A testimony of the Book of Mormon and revelation from modern-day prophets.
Evidence this week that God prepares people and blesses His missionaries:
- There's a gentleman named Gaston, who is a brother of a very active family. He was 16 and not living in the house of his family when they all listened to the missionaries and were baptized. Now, after 30 plus years, being left by his wife, suffering the death of his only child, and having half of his body paralyzed, he is ready and willing to do whatever it takes to find peace, follow Christ and be reunited with his family again for eternity.
- A very stubborn, cold grandpa, who, at 82, is now ready to listen to his daughter who has been a member for about 30 years. He couldn't stop talking about the problems of the world and the horrible things that people are doing "these days"...but we finally got him to focus on HIS own salvation. We used a lot of pictures....and food coloring and clorox....a powerful scripture....and boom. it clicked. We shared the scripture about how baptism is the gate that we have to enter. Hna. Bustinza said that this was his key to keep progressing and enter into heaven. He related to us the following dream: That he saw his two boys that have passed away. They were playing and having fun in heaven. They kept calling out to him so that he would join them. But he kept saying to them, I don't have the key, I don't have the key. I can't get past this gate.
Dreams and visions are evidences of pure faith. If there were a people with more faith than Chileans, it would surprise me.
I am so grateful for everything that you all are doing, and for all of the support that you offer to me. I am grateful to my Father in heaven that He has blessed me with my testimony of this restored gospel. Like Mitch said, I can feel real changes that are happening inside of me, and I can feel my heart and my determination to do this work in His way increase daily. I know Christ lives, and it is only by Him that we can have these changes occur; only by His love, His commandments and His way that we find true happiness. This gospel holds all of the truths and all the authority and all of the promises of the Lord. I am sure of it. This church is His church.
I love you all so very much. I hope Jed and Amanda put donuts on their christmas tree just for good ol' times sake. I hope Clint and Rach go skiing together. I hope Curt helps mom deliver neighborhood gifts. I hope Jed is the life of his christmas party (amanda, please dress him haha). I hope Dad still gets to eat Santa's cookies. And I hope mom drinks all of the eggnog she wants. And I hope Mitch gets to baptize a fam for christmas!
xoxoxo
Hermana CHAILDS
However, Hna. Brady did make me a nut cup decorated like a turkey.
Some things that I can really recognize coming to me from my Heavenly Father:
-a pathway to do the work that He has commanded me to do. I've seen when I really have the desire to do the things that He has asked me to do, and I try my best to do them, it's like I'm walking in the path that He's already cleared (instead of trying to do things my own way and having to fight through all of the rocky, brushy, itchy stuff).
-happiness that comes from progress and changes. Even if it does come through the "refiners fire."
-Understanding and ideas of how to help the people in our sector.
-A testimony of the Book of Mormon and revelation from modern-day prophets.
Evidence this week that God prepares people and blesses His missionaries:
- There's a gentleman named Gaston, who is a brother of a very active family. He was 16 and not living in the house of his family when they all listened to the missionaries and were baptized. Now, after 30 plus years, being left by his wife, suffering the death of his only child, and having half of his body paralyzed, he is ready and willing to do whatever it takes to find peace, follow Christ and be reunited with his family again for eternity.
- A very stubborn, cold grandpa, who, at 82, is now ready to listen to his daughter who has been a member for about 30 years. He couldn't stop talking about the problems of the world and the horrible things that people are doing "these days"...but we finally got him to focus on HIS own salvation. We used a lot of pictures....and food coloring and clorox....a powerful scripture....and boom. it clicked. We shared the scripture about how baptism is the gate that we have to enter. Hna. Bustinza said that this was his key to keep progressing and enter into heaven. He related to us the following dream: That he saw his two boys that have passed away. They were playing and having fun in heaven. They kept calling out to him so that he would join them. But he kept saying to them, I don't have the key, I don't have the key. I can't get past this gate.
Dreams and visions are evidences of pure faith. If there were a people with more faith than Chileans, it would surprise me.
I am so grateful for everything that you all are doing, and for all of the support that you offer to me. I am grateful to my Father in heaven that He has blessed me with my testimony of this restored gospel. Like Mitch said, I can feel real changes that are happening inside of me, and I can feel my heart and my determination to do this work in His way increase daily. I know Christ lives, and it is only by Him that we can have these changes occur; only by His love, His commandments and His way that we find true happiness. This gospel holds all of the truths and all the authority and all of the promises of the Lord. I am sure of it. This church is His church.
I love you all so very much. I hope Jed and Amanda put donuts on their christmas tree just for good ol' times sake. I hope Clint and Rach go skiing together. I hope Curt helps mom deliver neighborhood gifts. I hope Jed is the life of his christmas party (amanda, please dress him haha). I hope Dad still gets to eat Santa's cookies. And I hope mom drinks all of the eggnog she wants. And I hope Mitch gets to baptize a fam for christmas!
xoxoxo
Hermana CHAILDS
Monday, November 21, 2011
Thanksgiving or not - I am grateful to be a Missionary!
first of all.................
FELICITACIONES A MI HERMANO DE SANGRE Y EN EL EVANGELIO...¡¡HOORAY!! oh Elder Child. How cute you are. I'm so excited that you got your assignment to preach the gospel in Argentina. We are so going to be neighbors. Congrats. From what I hear, get prepared to eat a lot of meat, noodles, and to just love the people!
second of all...................
I'm lovin the new hairdo of the rachel. very adorable. very short. very brave. very stylin. I bet it's a dream to do. It fits you like a glove.
So, I have to admit that I didn't even remember about Thanksgiving until yesterday, then I was worried that I completly missed it. Is it the third or fourth thursday? ah well....I'm just really greatful that I get to be a missionary....and I was really greatful last thursday and this thursday I'm sure will be the same. :) Eat some extra pie for me! (kids table is dwindling...hold out strong curt)
This week we had interviews with the President in his home. Hermana Humphrey (who is very chic) let the sisters check out her closet (full of j.crew and nordies). She gave a suit coat to everyone of us. She also inspired us to really improve our teaching skills. I love her.
I did mini cambios with some sisters that live about a half an hour away this week. Really fun to have a taste of a different sector and investigators. My companion was an Hermana from California who has only been out for 3 weeks. It reminded me a lot of what it was like at the first of my mission, and it really made me reflect on what changes have occured inside of me since I began...what things I have learned how to do, and what things I still need to learn how to do. It helped me realize that my faith in my Heavenly Father has grown immensly (sp?) and my testimony of the restored gospel has been confirmed time and time again.
Everyday I find myself loving this work more and more, and everyday I realize how necessary and helpful and strengthening the gospel is in my own life and in the life of others. I know that our message is the message that God has always wanted His children on the earth to hear. I know that it is the same gospel that was taught in times of old, and that there is no other way to find true and complete happiness but through gaining our own testimony and applying in our own lives the principles that Christ has taught and will always teach.
Sorry that this email is short, I hope that all of you have a GREAT! week and that you find something really new and wonderful in your study of the Book of Mormon this week. You are all such amazing examples to me and I hope that you can feel my love!
love, su hermana
FELICITACIONES A MI HERMANO DE SANGRE Y EN EL EVANGELIO...¡¡HOORAY!! oh Elder Child. How cute you are. I'm so excited that you got your assignment to preach the gospel in Argentina. We are so going to be neighbors. Congrats. From what I hear, get prepared to eat a lot of meat, noodles, and to just love the people!
second of all...................
I'm lovin the new hairdo of the rachel. very adorable. very short. very brave. very stylin. I bet it's a dream to do. It fits you like a glove.
So, I have to admit that I didn't even remember about Thanksgiving until yesterday, then I was worried that I completly missed it. Is it the third or fourth thursday? ah well....I'm just really greatful that I get to be a missionary....and I was really greatful last thursday and this thursday I'm sure will be the same. :) Eat some extra pie for me! (kids table is dwindling...hold out strong curt)
This week we had interviews with the President in his home. Hermana Humphrey (who is very chic) let the sisters check out her closet (full of j.crew and nordies). She gave a suit coat to everyone of us. She also inspired us to really improve our teaching skills. I love her.
I did mini cambios with some sisters that live about a half an hour away this week. Really fun to have a taste of a different sector and investigators. My companion was an Hermana from California who has only been out for 3 weeks. It reminded me a lot of what it was like at the first of my mission, and it really made me reflect on what changes have occured inside of me since I began...what things I have learned how to do, and what things I still need to learn how to do. It helped me realize that my faith in my Heavenly Father has grown immensly (sp?) and my testimony of the restored gospel has been confirmed time and time again.
Everyday I find myself loving this work more and more, and everyday I realize how necessary and helpful and strengthening the gospel is in my own life and in the life of others. I know that our message is the message that God has always wanted His children on the earth to hear. I know that it is the same gospel that was taught in times of old, and that there is no other way to find true and complete happiness but through gaining our own testimony and applying in our own lives the principles that Christ has taught and will always teach.
Sorry that this email is short, I hope that all of you have a GREAT! week and that you find something really new and wonderful in your study of the Book of Mormon this week. You are all such amazing examples to me and I hope that you can feel my love!
love, su hermana
Monday, November 14, 2011
I've Fallen Up and I Can't Get Down...
This week has just been really full of highlights! I hope that all of you are well and safe and enjoying another week of LIVING! What a blessing.
This week we had an incredible conference with the whole mission. Elder Quinten L. Cook and Elder Richards (from the 70) came to visit! Besides the fact that we were running like mad woman around town trying to find the church where it was going to be held (yes, some of us in high heels), we made it in time to hear the amazing words of a prophet of God. Of course the wives spoke as well, and boy are they powerhouses. Sister Richards spoke on something that really has stayed with me. She mentioned how in the Book of Mormon and in the gospel in general, the prophecies, the faith and the teachings that are centered in Christ, don't take on their full meaning until we apply them in a family setting. (for example when Nephi is shown the prophecies of Christ by an Angel who says "Look" - after, he brings it all together by applying it to his family in the following chapters). Similarly, we as missionaries, won't become discouraged or lose hope in the times that are really tough for us (aka lose sight of our Savior) as we remember that we are preparing ourselves to bloom and fight for our future families. I know that daily I am learning lessons that I will be able to apply in my family. As I keep this perspective it helps me fight for the families that I encounter everyday.
Also, the talk of Elder Cook was very incredible. He was responsible for going to Vietnam just a little while ago and discuss with the cultural committees and other leaders of the country about opening up their country for missionary work. (and maybe this is old news for all of you)...but he spoke to them of the purpose of missionary work. It's NOT to be the head marketers for the church, or even the "face of the church," but it's our job to be "branch builders" We are to be working with people in homes, with the friends and acquaintances of the friends, in order to teach what we believe to be truth. I'm sure he explained a little bit more, but at the end of the meeting it was agreed upon that missionaries would be allowed to enter and preach in this country! What a miracle! (CURTIS?!? ya never know). Then, he continued to explain to us what we as missionaries should be doing...and that is building the kingdom of God where we are called to serve. He spoke of strengthening the ward/branch that we are in, helping the young men prepare for missions, reactivate, and baptize people who are going to be faithful, strong members in the church. We are here to prepare the earth for the second coming of the Savior. And we are here to do it with the love of Him and in the way that He would do it. Needless to say, it enlarged my perspective of what I am doing day to day, and it reenergized me to work the best and most efficiently possible.
I am so grateful for this gospel. I know it's true with all I've got, because I have felt an unforgettable, strong mark on my heart that Christ is my Savior, that Joseph Smith was an instrument and true prophet in restoring Christ's church and that families are meant to be eternal. I have grown to love the Book of Mormon like never before as I have relied on it for inspiration in what to teach these people who are searching for something more, who are searching to know their Savior. I know it requires a lot of work to follow Him, but if it seems complicated, it's because we haven't understood His gospel completely. His way is simple and narrow and specific, and as the Person who suffered for our sins and afflictions, He is the One who has set the conditions for our repentance. And He is the One who heals us, helps us, strengthens us, and guides us back to Him.
How beautiful is the gospel, and how blessed are we to live it! I love sharing it with others. I hope you all have a wonderful week and you learn something knew about Jesus Christ this week.
with SO MUCH love,
Hermana Gil
This week we had an incredible conference with the whole mission. Elder Quinten L. Cook and Elder Richards (from the 70) came to visit! Besides the fact that we were running like mad woman around town trying to find the church where it was going to be held (yes, some of us in high heels), we made it in time to hear the amazing words of a prophet of God. Of course the wives spoke as well, and boy are they powerhouses. Sister Richards spoke on something that really has stayed with me. She mentioned how in the Book of Mormon and in the gospel in general, the prophecies, the faith and the teachings that are centered in Christ, don't take on their full meaning until we apply them in a family setting. (for example when Nephi is shown the prophecies of Christ by an Angel who says "Look" - after, he brings it all together by applying it to his family in the following chapters). Similarly, we as missionaries, won't become discouraged or lose hope in the times that are really tough for us (aka lose sight of our Savior) as we remember that we are preparing ourselves to bloom and fight for our future families. I know that daily I am learning lessons that I will be able to apply in my family. As I keep this perspective it helps me fight for the families that I encounter everyday.
Also, the talk of Elder Cook was very incredible. He was responsible for going to Vietnam just a little while ago and discuss with the cultural committees and other leaders of the country about opening up their country for missionary work. (and maybe this is old news for all of you)...but he spoke to them of the purpose of missionary work. It's NOT to be the head marketers for the church, or even the "face of the church," but it's our job to be "branch builders" We are to be working with people in homes, with the friends and acquaintances of the friends, in order to teach what we believe to be truth. I'm sure he explained a little bit more, but at the end of the meeting it was agreed upon that missionaries would be allowed to enter and preach in this country! What a miracle! (CURTIS?!? ya never know). Then, he continued to explain to us what we as missionaries should be doing...and that is building the kingdom of God where we are called to serve. He spoke of strengthening the ward/branch that we are in, helping the young men prepare for missions, reactivate, and baptize people who are going to be faithful, strong members in the church. We are here to prepare the earth for the second coming of the Savior. And we are here to do it with the love of Him and in the way that He would do it. Needless to say, it enlarged my perspective of what I am doing day to day, and it reenergized me to work the best and most efficiently possible.
I am so grateful for this gospel. I know it's true with all I've got, because I have felt an unforgettable, strong mark on my heart that Christ is my Savior, that Joseph Smith was an instrument and true prophet in restoring Christ's church and that families are meant to be eternal. I have grown to love the Book of Mormon like never before as I have relied on it for inspiration in what to teach these people who are searching for something more, who are searching to know their Savior. I know it requires a lot of work to follow Him, but if it seems complicated, it's because we haven't understood His gospel completely. His way is simple and narrow and specific, and as the Person who suffered for our sins and afflictions, He is the One who has set the conditions for our repentance. And He is the One who heals us, helps us, strengthens us, and guides us back to Him.
How beautiful is the gospel, and how blessed are we to live it! I love sharing it with others. I hope you all have a wonderful week and you learn something knew about Jesus Christ this week.
with SO MUCH love,
Hermana Gil
Sunday, November 13, 2011
This Week - I started my own English Class!!
ALO FAMILIA Y AMIGOS Y DISCONOCIDOS! ¿como estan? in the SNOW! wo. crazy! ha, I'm really sorry about that!
I've gotten to the point where I don't know what to write you anymore...we're just workin! We study in the morning (the mission has started a program this week to study Preach My Gospel all together. I'm tellin you, this book is REALLY inspired. I'm learning what learning actually is, and learning how to study TO APPLY, and learning how to study for revelation. The Spirit is helping me a lot find MY rhythm in this work). Then we work. Then we eat lunch. A lot of it. Then we study Engleesh (we learned the alphabet this week..."TH" is still a little tricky). Then we work...until 10:00 at night, then we go home and plan for the next day, then pass out and wake up and do it again. It doesn't sound like much; and I haven't made it sound as intense or exciting as Mitch does. But I sincerely have fallen in love with it. It's being able to bear testimony so frequently, and have the spirit with you, and see people know their Savior that keeps you going.
This week I started my own English class. Pretty humble beginnings...but we were able to meet 5 new people through it. We reviewed the alphabet and I taught them how to pray. "Hebenly Fah-dirr" is so adorable with their accents. Hna. Bustinza told me that my Spanish has improved a lot. HM...how about that? It helps to have MAYBE one conversation in English a day (sometimes Hna. Brady and I still a sec to use all of the ridiculous sayings and phrases in English that just don't translate). If it isn't just a miracle and a half that I can go a whole day without speaking my native tongue, I don't know what is.
Hermana Bustinza picked up "oh my gosh" from me and "freaking" from Hna. Da'Luz. I told her my mom doesn't like that word.
Oh how I love you all so much! Thanks for all of the support and love in my behalf. It has become very evident from all of the miracles that I have seen, that this is the Lord's work, that He is very aware of all of us, and He is ALWAYS going to be right HERE watching over us. I hope this week, I in Chile, and all of you clear over there, can show gratitude and love towards our Savior and be a little BETTER.
With all of the love I've got,
Hermana CCHHH---AAAHHHLLL
Hermana Bustinza and I - we have roses and mint growing in front of our house.
What a dream right?
Don't ask me why I might come home with a few extra pounds around my middle. Just check our those portion sizes. I had to sip more than one mint tea in order to help my stomach feel better. Two scoops of rice, two scoops potato salad, a nice piece of chicken with veggies, and of course, bread.
Hermana Lidia proudly showing her spaghetti (pretty typical to eat) - But, this is a pretty small serving...oh my word!
Hermana Sanchez (from El Salvador) and Hermana Brady from Oregon - are the other two sisters we live with.
Hermana Bustinza eating her peanut butter on bread, outside of our house for studies. No need to ask why I love her so much.
Farewell Family Night for Hermana Le'Luz that left the sector this transfer after being here for six months.
I've gotten to the point where I don't know what to write you anymore...we're just workin! We study in the morning (the mission has started a program this week to study Preach My Gospel all together. I'm tellin you, this book is REALLY inspired. I'm learning what learning actually is, and learning how to study TO APPLY, and learning how to study for revelation. The Spirit is helping me a lot find MY rhythm in this work). Then we work. Then we eat lunch. A lot of it. Then we study Engleesh (we learned the alphabet this week..."TH" is still a little tricky). Then we work...until 10:00 at night, then we go home and plan for the next day, then pass out and wake up and do it again. It doesn't sound like much; and I haven't made it sound as intense or exciting as Mitch does. But I sincerely have fallen in love with it. It's being able to bear testimony so frequently, and have the spirit with you, and see people know their Savior that keeps you going.
This week I started my own English class. Pretty humble beginnings...but we were able to meet 5 new people through it. We reviewed the alphabet and I taught them how to pray. "Hebenly Fah-dirr" is so adorable with their accents. Hna. Bustinza told me that my Spanish has improved a lot. HM...how about that? It helps to have MAYBE one conversation in English a day (sometimes Hna. Brady and I still a sec to use all of the ridiculous sayings and phrases in English that just don't translate). If it isn't just a miracle and a half that I can go a whole day without speaking my native tongue, I don't know what is.
Hermana Bustinza picked up "oh my gosh" from me and "freaking" from Hna. Da'Luz. I told her my mom doesn't like that word.
Oh how I love you all so much! Thanks for all of the support and love in my behalf. It has become very evident from all of the miracles that I have seen, that this is the Lord's work, that He is very aware of all of us, and He is ALWAYS going to be right HERE watching over us. I hope this week, I in Chile, and all of you clear over there, can show gratitude and love towards our Savior and be a little BETTER.
With all of the love I've got,
Hermana CCHHH---AAAHHHLLL
What a dream right?
Monday, November 7, 2011
Learning to be More Bold!
well HELLO HELLO hello!
Turns out Mitch is having a lot more changes as far as transfers go, than I am having :) We found out that I am going to be staying here in Hualqui for at least 6 more weeks with my dear Hna. Bustinza. WOO! I'm really excited and ready to roll up my sleeves and "make some waves" in this little town. I have really grown to love the people who live here, from the lady with the INSANE dog who washes our clothes to the Bishop who gives us firesides about getting married everytime we have lunch in his house, to the store owners right by our house who ask us how the losing weight is going and keep track of our curfew for us.
Hermana Da'Luz is leaving the house and a sister from El Salvador is moving in to be companions with Hna. Brady. It should be really fun change---where we all just keep learning a lot!
I explained to Hna. Bustinza that you'd probably see snow pretty soon around the house, and she could hardly believe it. Especially since we had a good heat wave hit us this week. I've officially got a tan line from my sick missionary shoes and there is a constant dust cloud from the buses that pass. But, I don't think it's anywhere near what Elder Child is going through.ha
As far as the work is going...it's going! No matter what the boys say, there are sisters who WORK. :) I hope to make the fam proud. There were only a few blowups with the other companionship this past transfer...and the ZL did say that I was the most level-headed of the bunch here in Hualqui. So there ya go. I haven't changed all that much.
Although, I would say, I have learned how to be more bold in the manner that I call people to repentance. Meah, no big deal to tell people now that they have to stop yelling at their spouse, or smoking, or breaking the law of chastity. I understand more now, that it's really my calling, for which I have the authority, to explain to people what they need to do to know their Savior, Jesus Christ, and the price they need to pay to enter into God's Kingdom, because it surely isn't free. Only upon the conditions of repentance are we really forgiven of what we have done wrong, the mistakes we have made, the weaknesses and faults we have, and the hurt and problems we have caused. I've come to realize that if I really am to show my love for these people I won't hold any prompting from the Spirit on my tongue, and I won't soften their responsibility as parents and children of God. And OH HOW EXHILARATING it is. I love it.
Okay, sorry no photos today, I'm at a different cyber. But I wish you all the best of the best this week! Don't scare any little kids in front of our house too much. Be sure to carve pumpkins that are beautiful. and READ THE BOOK OF MORMON EVERYDAY!
I love you all so much and I know that this CHURCH IS SO TRUE!
Hermana Child
Turns out Mitch is having a lot more changes as far as transfers go, than I am having :) We found out that I am going to be staying here in Hualqui for at least 6 more weeks with my dear Hna. Bustinza. WOO! I'm really excited and ready to roll up my sleeves and "make some waves" in this little town. I have really grown to love the people who live here, from the lady with the INSANE dog who washes our clothes to the Bishop who gives us firesides about getting married everytime we have lunch in his house, to the store owners right by our house who ask us how the losing weight is going and keep track of our curfew for us.
Hermana Da'Luz is leaving the house and a sister from El Salvador is moving in to be companions with Hna. Brady. It should be really fun change---where we all just keep learning a lot!
I explained to Hna. Bustinza that you'd probably see snow pretty soon around the house, and she could hardly believe it. Especially since we had a good heat wave hit us this week. I've officially got a tan line from my sick missionary shoes and there is a constant dust cloud from the buses that pass. But, I don't think it's anywhere near what Elder Child is going through.ha
As far as the work is going...it's going! No matter what the boys say, there are sisters who WORK. :) I hope to make the fam proud. There were only a few blowups with the other companionship this past transfer...and the ZL did say that I was the most level-headed of the bunch here in Hualqui. So there ya go. I haven't changed all that much.
Although, I would say, I have learned how to be more bold in the manner that I call people to repentance. Meah, no big deal to tell people now that they have to stop yelling at their spouse, or smoking, or breaking the law of chastity. I understand more now, that it's really my calling, for which I have the authority, to explain to people what they need to do to know their Savior, Jesus Christ, and the price they need to pay to enter into God's Kingdom, because it surely isn't free. Only upon the conditions of repentance are we really forgiven of what we have done wrong, the mistakes we have made, the weaknesses and faults we have, and the hurt and problems we have caused. I've come to realize that if I really am to show my love for these people I won't hold any prompting from the Spirit on my tongue, and I won't soften their responsibility as parents and children of God. And OH HOW EXHILARATING it is. I love it.
Okay, sorry no photos today, I'm at a different cyber. But I wish you all the best of the best this week! Don't scare any little kids in front of our house too much. Be sure to carve pumpkins that are beautiful. and READ THE BOOK OF MORMON EVERYDAY!
I love you all so much and I know that this CHURCH IS SO TRUE!
Hermana Child
Friday, October 28, 2011
I stumbled upon an outhouse and found Olga.....
Hi Hello Greetings Hola Hey ¡BUENOS DIAS!
How are things cookin' up or coolin' down in the Middlefork Valley? Let's just say things are just feelin great over here in Hualqui...I've got an official tan line on my feet and even a little color in my cheeks....there is a wonder in SPRING! (or fall? I forget that it's almost November...let's pack away the sweaters and tights!)
Mitch, sounds like you're like one of the favorite players in the game of chess (could we call you queen?) just getting moved all over the board since they know you can just do what ever it takes...good for you ELDER! Best of wishes! Even though it's tough to leave everyone and everything in your last sector and focus in on the new, I know you can do it...You're incredible. Love you.
Curt, hey, be patient. I had the same thing happen to me...but I can't imagine having a different district in the MTC or having a different trainer than I had...and it was only possible because I had so much time to make granola in the house beforehand. I'm so SO excited for you!
First things first, I gotta tell you about the good news: Olga got baptized yesterday! Ya-hoo! She is incredible and really brave and really kind and has the potential and promise to become a really strong, responsible member of the church! She lives in a corner of the sector that's a little taste of heaven and I got a chance to use her outhouse this week (that's how they do it out in the campo). She is (currently) the only active member in her family--she's single, and the only girl of a lot of brothers who live close to her; no one came to her baptism from her family; When she got back home she told all of her brothers to hug her and congratulate her since she was baptized Mormon. They did. (side note: I was going to tell her all about how my brothers like to eat all the food I prepare too, and how they think I'm crazy for liking the things I like too...turns out we've got a lot in common...we sisters)
We're just workin away! I'm learning a lot. Taught the Relief Society lesson yesterday about how to OPEN YOUR MOUTH and INVITE people to learn more about the gospel (don't worry, the teacher that was supposed to give the TFOT lesson called us Saturday at 11 pm to ask us to take over...) Sadly, there was no time to make a cute handout or prepare all of the overheads that would've been used in MF, but we did what we could.
I'm learning how to set goals, I'm learning how to love people for real, I'm learning what it means to be a missionary, and I'm learning what it takes to be a dedicated servant.
Have you gotten any mail lately? yes! I got a few letters today
Is the weather getting warmer? yes. thank goodness...even though I think Hna. Bustinza is roasting. She's from the mountain ranges of Peru..and I don't think it gets too hot there.
Are you still exercising in the morning? yes...even though probably not as diligently as I should be considering how I'm being fed.
Are there a few specifics that you would like for christmas? I'm trying to work on being a more creative teacher...esp. with kids.. I was thinking it would be fun to teach with felt puppets (ya know, for your hands?). If you have time, could you make me a few prophet puppets? Or, even a book for primary that has object lessons? Also, a primary children's songbook or two would be great. jump rope.
Should I send things for you to give to the other Hermanas, like the bags I did last year, pillow cases, ???or to give to members, children, etc...I would LOVE anything that you could send. Any poster/pictures of Christ. Any postcards from Salt Lake or Utah or little gadgets to give people from Utah..they would love. Actually, send me a photo of you and dad when you got married with the Temple in the background, it'd be fantastic. haha Any little bags or pillowcases, etc. anything is going to be used and loved.
Oh how I love you all so so so much! This gospel has got me ON FIRE! haa It's so wonderful to be able to teach it to the people here! It's so very true! hey, and here's a challenge: in one random conversation you have in school or work bring up how the gospel has changed your life. It's eaaasssy! Just gotta listen, and something they say will lead you to a truth of the gospel, that could lead you to testify! DO IT!
all my love: Hermana Child (got it right this week)
How are things cookin' up or coolin' down in the Middlefork Valley? Let's just say things are just feelin great over here in Hualqui...I've got an official tan line on my feet and even a little color in my cheeks....there is a wonder in SPRING! (or fall? I forget that it's almost November...let's pack away the sweaters and tights!)
Mitch, sounds like you're like one of the favorite players in the game of chess (could we call you queen?) just getting moved all over the board since they know you can just do what ever it takes...good for you ELDER! Best of wishes! Even though it's tough to leave everyone and everything in your last sector and focus in on the new, I know you can do it...You're incredible. Love you.
Curt, hey, be patient. I had the same thing happen to me...but I can't imagine having a different district in the MTC or having a different trainer than I had...and it was only possible because I had so much time to make granola in the house beforehand. I'm so SO excited for you!
First things first, I gotta tell you about the good news: Olga got baptized yesterday! Ya-hoo! She is incredible and really brave and really kind and has the potential and promise to become a really strong, responsible member of the church! She lives in a corner of the sector that's a little taste of heaven and I got a chance to use her outhouse this week (that's how they do it out in the campo). She is (currently) the only active member in her family--she's single, and the only girl of a lot of brothers who live close to her; no one came to her baptism from her family; When she got back home she told all of her brothers to hug her and congratulate her since she was baptized Mormon. They did. (side note: I was going to tell her all about how my brothers like to eat all the food I prepare too, and how they think I'm crazy for liking the things I like too...turns out we've got a lot in common...we sisters)
We're just workin away! I'm learning a lot. Taught the Relief Society lesson yesterday about how to OPEN YOUR MOUTH and INVITE people to learn more about the gospel (don't worry, the teacher that was supposed to give the TFOT lesson called us Saturday at 11 pm to ask us to take over...) Sadly, there was no time to make a cute handout or prepare all of the overheads that would've been used in MF, but we did what we could.
I'm learning how to set goals, I'm learning how to love people for real, I'm learning what it means to be a missionary, and I'm learning what it takes to be a dedicated servant.
Have you gotten any mail lately? yes! I got a few letters today
Is the weather getting warmer? yes. thank goodness...even though I think Hna. Bustinza is roasting. She's from the mountain ranges of Peru..and I don't think it gets too hot there.
Are you still exercising in the morning? yes...even though probably not as diligently as I should be considering how I'm being fed.
Are there a few specifics that you would like for christmas? I'm trying to work on being a more creative teacher...esp. with kids.. I was thinking it would be fun to teach with felt puppets (ya know, for your hands?). If you have time, could you make me a few prophet puppets? Or, even a book for primary that has object lessons? Also, a primary children's songbook or two would be great. jump rope.
Should I send things for you to give to the other Hermanas, like the bags I did last year, pillow cases, ???or to give to members, children, etc...I would LOVE anything that you could send. Any poster/pictures of Christ. Any postcards from Salt Lake or Utah or little gadgets to give people from Utah..they would love. Actually, send me a photo of you and dad when you got married with the Temple in the background, it'd be fantastic. haha Any little bags or pillowcases, etc. anything is going to be used and loved.
Oh how I love you all so so so much! This gospel has got me ON FIRE! haa It's so wonderful to be able to teach it to the people here! It's so very true! hey, and here's a challenge: in one random conversation you have in school or work bring up how the gospel has changed your life. It's eaaasssy! Just gotta listen, and something they say will lead you to a truth of the gospel, that could lead you to testify! DO IT!
all my love: Hermana Child (got it right this week)
Monday, October 24, 2011
Greetings From the Good Ol' Land of Chee-LAY!
Greetings to all! from the good ol' land of Cheee-LAY!
I LOVE THE GOSPEL! I love it I love it I love it. I have a lot of thoughts in my head right now, and I'm not quite sure what to write all of you...I'm gonna try and make all of this make sense.
A few things that happened this week:
As far as this week goes Hermana Brady still had a little bit of the Fungus in her throat. We had a few hot and a few rainy days. I made banana bread. The other sisters had two beautiful baptisms. We tried to have a lot more lessons with members. I repented of a lot of things. Hna. Bustinza learned that sweets make you gain weight. We taught the law of chastity to 1. a 16 yr. old girl that is pregnant 2. two a couple that live together, have two children, but aren't married, and haven't been that faithful. Had a fantastic family night, topped with "calzones rotos" - scones with powdered sugar- translated means twisted panties. Delivered food to a single mother of 3 who's scraping by. Watched the Restoration video with Olga and she said that she's found what she's been looking for. I still have fleas. Went to the beach today for P-day with the zone, looked for sea shells and saw a live starfish. Recognized the importance and power of goals. My companion cooked Aji de Gallina - this delicious Peruvian chicken dish that has peanuts, cheese soda crackers and chili peppers. I finished the Book of Mormon. DIDN'T shave my legs. Drank fresh peppermint tea from the giant plant in our front yard. Realized the importance of focusing your thoughts. Saw SO many miracles Sunday morning. AND I slept really really good every single night...if you can imagine.
There was a lot more that happened, a lot more that I learned, and a lot more that I just won't ever be able to record. I hope it just reflects in who I am the next time you see me. I really thank my Heavenly Father for allowing me to grow and allowing me to realize how real and powerful this gospel of Jesus Christ is.
I hope everyone is doing well....Mitch, I know you're just doing such a great job with your lil' zone. Keep up the good work! Curt---ooooOOOoooo Russia? Paraguay? Canada? Japan? where's it gonna be man?? Regardless! Get your nose in PMG and BOM!! You'll be such a blessing to everyone you serve if you get it goin now :) You're awesome! Jed! I love the kitchen! Oh, it's such an adorable little room! and the grass! (I have to say, I haven't seen a lawn with mown grass forQUITE some time...it's really common for them to just take out all the grass, or have it overgrown) Amanda will be so happy, I'm sure. Rachy and Clinter I hope you keep up the adventures! Mom, if missionaries return to the valley-please give them your fabulous map. I'm making one right now, something similar, but they will love you. Dad, hope you had a fabulous b-day. I love you very very much.
I am so excited for everything that is happening in your lives right now! Keep up the great work of making your lives SO great. You're incredible examples to me of hard work and of humility and of love. I LOVE YOU! the CHURCH IS SO TRUE!
Love,
Hermana Ch-AY
Getting good at making banana bread
Hermana Bustinza
Went to the beach this morning for p-day
Found a star fish!
I LOVE THE GOSPEL! I love it I love it I love it. I have a lot of thoughts in my head right now, and I'm not quite sure what to write all of you...I'm gonna try and make all of this make sense.
A few things that happened this week:
As far as this week goes Hermana Brady still had a little bit of the Fungus in her throat. We had a few hot and a few rainy days. I made banana bread. The other sisters had two beautiful baptisms. We tried to have a lot more lessons with members. I repented of a lot of things. Hna. Bustinza learned that sweets make you gain weight. We taught the law of chastity to 1. a 16 yr. old girl that is pregnant 2. two a couple that live together, have two children, but aren't married, and haven't been that faithful. Had a fantastic family night, topped with "calzones rotos" - scones with powdered sugar- translated means twisted panties. Delivered food to a single mother of 3 who's scraping by. Watched the Restoration video with Olga and she said that she's found what she's been looking for. I still have fleas. Went to the beach today for P-day with the zone, looked for sea shells and saw a live starfish. Recognized the importance and power of goals. My companion cooked Aji de Gallina - this delicious Peruvian chicken dish that has peanuts, cheese soda crackers and chili peppers. I finished the Book of Mormon. DIDN'T shave my legs. Drank fresh peppermint tea from the giant plant in our front yard. Realized the importance of focusing your thoughts. Saw SO many miracles Sunday morning. AND I slept really really good every single night...if you can imagine.
There was a lot more that happened, a lot more that I learned, and a lot more that I just won't ever be able to record. I hope it just reflects in who I am the next time you see me. I really thank my Heavenly Father for allowing me to grow and allowing me to realize how real and powerful this gospel of Jesus Christ is.
I hope everyone is doing well....Mitch, I know you're just doing such a great job with your lil' zone. Keep up the good work! Curt---ooooOOOoooo Russia? Paraguay? Canada? Japan? where's it gonna be man?? Regardless! Get your nose in PMG and BOM!! You'll be such a blessing to everyone you serve if you get it goin now :) You're awesome! Jed! I love the kitchen! Oh, it's such an adorable little room! and the grass! (I have to say, I haven't seen a lawn with mown grass forQUITE some time...it's really common for them to just take out all the grass, or have it overgrown) Amanda will be so happy, I'm sure. Rachy and Clinter I hope you keep up the adventures! Mom, if missionaries return to the valley-please give them your fabulous map. I'm making one right now, something similar, but they will love you. Dad, hope you had a fabulous b-day. I love you very very much.
I am so excited for everything that is happening in your lives right now! Keep up the great work of making your lives SO great. You're incredible examples to me of hard work and of humility and of love. I LOVE YOU! the CHURCH IS SO TRUE!
Love,
Hermana Ch-AY
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Picking up the Pace in Hualqui (Wall-key)!
Well HELLO family!
I hope all is going well this fabulous MONDAY! Sounds from the update from you all, that everything is found well and you are just livin' up the "child"ish life.
As for the news in wall-key, we just gotta pick up the pace...Everything is set in place, everything perfect, there was never a better time to work than now. And how blessed we are to be working together, with health and members and a message that EVERYONE needs.
This week was a little loco since Hna. Bustinza had to go to a training for all of the new missionaries and Hna. Brady was sick...let's just say a lot of splits. Actually, with Hna. Brady, the clinic here first diagnosed her as having a fungus in her throat (since she couldn't really swallow and it hurt a lot to eat). how pleasant right?...a few days of getting worse, even with the antibiotic that they gave her, she went to the hospital in Concepcion to see a doctor, and they diagnosed her with a good ol' case of Bronchitis. Needless to say she won't be spreading her hongos to the rest of us, she just has to rest for the next week.
We met a really incredible woman this week, who's in her mid-50's, single, and a person prepared for the gospel if I ever met one. Searching for the truth, willing to become closer to her Savior, and ready to submit her life to following Him. After sharing with her a few times, we left her the word of wisdom pamphlet to read and pray about before we shared with her the next time, knowing that she smoked every once in awhile. The next time we went she'd thrown out all of her cigarrettes and coffee. Time out: Let's just say that this is my absolute favorite part of the gospel...seeing the changes that the LORD makes in the hearts of the people. He truly makes it so that they have no desire to sin, but to follow Him with full purpose of heart...even after the presence of the missionaries has left. She came with us to church this week and is ready and willing to allow the Lord to work miracles in her life.
Every experience I have with an investigator, or less-active or member here allows me to reflect on what kind of disciple I am for my Savior. Makes me question if I am as willing to follow His commandments, love Him, repent, and allow Him to perform the miracles in myself and my life that are apparently possible. I think I knew all of the answers to every question that they asked me in sunday school. But I don't think I ever understood what it was to really have faith in Christ, and come unto Him through repentance; to apply that in my Very Own Life. Very strange how that can happen. Slowly and surely I'm learning the price that one needs to pay to get to know the Savior.
Go ahead and really ask yourself if you really believe that you can change anything that you don't like about yourself, something that keeps you from being like Christ. Then, fix it...but don't try and fix it on your own. Because you can't. Pray for help, then do everything that you can that is in your power to change it...then God adds that part to your heart that you were missing, and changes that part that wasn't quite right.
I love you all so so much. I hope you all know that I love this gospel, that I love the Book of Mormon and I love our Savior. I hope you know that I know the LORD lives and answers prayers. I know we are not invisible to Him.
Live it up...LOOK UP AND STEP UP!
Hermana Hermana.
I hope all is going well this fabulous MONDAY! Sounds from the update from you all, that everything is found well and you are just livin' up the "child"ish life.
As for the news in wall-key, we just gotta pick up the pace...Everything is set in place, everything perfect, there was never a better time to work than now. And how blessed we are to be working together, with health and members and a message that EVERYONE needs.
This week was a little loco since Hna. Bustinza had to go to a training for all of the new missionaries and Hna. Brady was sick...let's just say a lot of splits. Actually, with Hna. Brady, the clinic here first diagnosed her as having a fungus in her throat (since she couldn't really swallow and it hurt a lot to eat). how pleasant right?...a few days of getting worse, even with the antibiotic that they gave her, she went to the hospital in Concepcion to see a doctor, and they diagnosed her with a good ol' case of Bronchitis. Needless to say she won't be spreading her hongos to the rest of us, she just has to rest for the next week.
We met a really incredible woman this week, who's in her mid-50's, single, and a person prepared for the gospel if I ever met one. Searching for the truth, willing to become closer to her Savior, and ready to submit her life to following Him. After sharing with her a few times, we left her the word of wisdom pamphlet to read and pray about before we shared with her the next time, knowing that she smoked every once in awhile. The next time we went she'd thrown out all of her cigarrettes and coffee. Time out: Let's just say that this is my absolute favorite part of the gospel...seeing the changes that the LORD makes in the hearts of the people. He truly makes it so that they have no desire to sin, but to follow Him with full purpose of heart...even after the presence of the missionaries has left. She came with us to church this week and is ready and willing to allow the Lord to work miracles in her life.
Every experience I have with an investigator, or less-active or member here allows me to reflect on what kind of disciple I am for my Savior. Makes me question if I am as willing to follow His commandments, love Him, repent, and allow Him to perform the miracles in myself and my life that are apparently possible. I think I knew all of the answers to every question that they asked me in sunday school. But I don't think I ever understood what it was to really have faith in Christ, and come unto Him through repentance; to apply that in my Very Own Life. Very strange how that can happen. Slowly and surely I'm learning the price that one needs to pay to get to know the Savior.
Go ahead and really ask yourself if you really believe that you can change anything that you don't like about yourself, something that keeps you from being like Christ. Then, fix it...but don't try and fix it on your own. Because you can't. Pray for help, then do everything that you can that is in your power to change it...then God adds that part to your heart that you were missing, and changes that part that wasn't quite right.
I love you all so so much. I hope you all know that I love this gospel, that I love the Book of Mormon and I love our Savior. I hope you know that I know the LORD lives and answers prayers. I know we are not invisible to Him.
Live it up...LOOK UP AND STEP UP!
Hermana Hermana.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Conference was Incredible - Over way too fast!
Buenas Tardes Familia y Amigos! hello hello
Incoming from the Chilean front, news from Hualqui & the Hermanas serving there! Everything is just rolling along!! Conference was incredible. It was spent in a separate room in the stake center with all the other gringo missionaries watching it in English, snacking on pretzels and staring in awe at all of the inspiration flowing out of the tv...was over way too fast. The messages were beautiful messages from our Heavenly Father, what a powerful, inspirational and loving God He is!
there was just a tremor in internet. It's become pretty normal to feel little shakes of the earth. Speaking of which, there are alot of things that I have forgotten are not "normal" (besides the fact that I didn't shave mylegs...big whoop, get over it boys). It's not really "normal" to be running around Sunday morning inviting people to church, nor whipe off your silverware and rim of your glass with a napkin before you use them, just to make sure they're sanitary. It's not normal to feel a little rebelious when you don't polish your shoes every morning, or even feel excited when someone says they read a pamphlet.
There are a whole lot of things about missionary life that I have never done before; that haven't ever really been the norm. But I think it's a mixture of it all that really makes it so great. Missions aren't normal. They were never meant to be normal experiences. And in the midst of everything, the missionary isn't supposed to be normal either. I'm not supposed to feel like I normally do, nor act, talk, think, converse, relate, love, serve or even dress like I normally do. Whether it be the "camping" conditions we live in, or the daily activities that a missionary is involved in, it isn't meant to be an ordinary experience. Forget the details, forget the daily humor, the sweat, the tears and the achey body, forget the 8 glasses of daily coke a day and the fact that you're with the exact same person all the time; forget the numbers, the phone calls and the dogs that disgust you....and you'll really be able to profoundly and appreciatively realize that the mission can't and never will be a normal experience.
But, really, it's up to you to embrace everything that a mission is, and isn't, and find in it for yourself, who you are, what you're made of, who designed you, and what in the world is God's grand plan for you.
I have no doubt that God is perfect. That He loves us too much to allow coincidences and that He has provided a way for families to be together forever. I know He is perfectly patient with us, and I know that the things that He wants us to know is contained in the Book of Mormon. I know He's working out our salvation, we just have to get on board.
LOOK UP STEP UP.
I loveloveloveyou! I hope you all have an incredible week!
Hermana Chilly Willy
On the outskirts of Hualqui, Hermana Bustinza is a babe!
Pretty Springtime, a normal Chilean home
Prosperina, who's almost 90 (actually I don't know if even she knows how old she is) She came to conference. Most of the lessons are spent with us right next to her ear so she can hear us.
Petronila - She made this bag to put her hymn book and her scriptures in.
All the gals lined up for Conference. Hualqui took a bus to the Stake Center, about 45 minutes away.
Incoming from the Chilean front, news from Hualqui & the Hermanas serving there! Everything is just rolling along!! Conference was incredible. It was spent in a separate room in the stake center with all the other gringo missionaries watching it in English, snacking on pretzels and staring in awe at all of the inspiration flowing out of the tv...was over way too fast. The messages were beautiful messages from our Heavenly Father, what a powerful, inspirational and loving God He is!
there was just a tremor in internet. It's become pretty normal to feel little shakes of the earth. Speaking of which, there are alot of things that I have forgotten are not "normal" (besides the fact that I didn't shave mylegs...big whoop, get over it boys). It's not really "normal" to be running around Sunday morning inviting people to church, nor whipe off your silverware and rim of your glass with a napkin before you use them, just to make sure they're sanitary. It's not normal to feel a little rebelious when you don't polish your shoes every morning, or even feel excited when someone says they read a pamphlet.
There are a whole lot of things about missionary life that I have never done before; that haven't ever really been the norm. But I think it's a mixture of it all that really makes it so great. Missions aren't normal. They were never meant to be normal experiences. And in the midst of everything, the missionary isn't supposed to be normal either. I'm not supposed to feel like I normally do, nor act, talk, think, converse, relate, love, serve or even dress like I normally do. Whether it be the "camping" conditions we live in, or the daily activities that a missionary is involved in, it isn't meant to be an ordinary experience. Forget the details, forget the daily humor, the sweat, the tears and the achey body, forget the 8 glasses of daily coke a day and the fact that you're with the exact same person all the time; forget the numbers, the phone calls and the dogs that disgust you....and you'll really be able to profoundly and appreciatively realize that the mission can't and never will be a normal experience.
But, really, it's up to you to embrace everything that a mission is, and isn't, and find in it for yourself, who you are, what you're made of, who designed you, and what in the world is God's grand plan for you.
I have no doubt that God is perfect. That He loves us too much to allow coincidences and that He has provided a way for families to be together forever. I know He is perfectly patient with us, and I know that the things that He wants us to know is contained in the Book of Mormon. I know He's working out our salvation, we just have to get on board.
LOOK UP STEP UP.
I loveloveloveyou! I hope you all have an incredible week!
Hermana Chilly Willy
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
I'm Not Wearing Tights :)
HELLOOOOO! Familia! Hi. Hermana Child here, at your service. The sun is shining, and it really does so much GOOD to have that working on your side! We're entering the spring time down here and yesterday a little color returned to my face (nothing like leaving behind the february pasty look) :)
Sounds like things on the home front couldn't be busier or more successful! HOORAY! Curtis - try and fit a little more fun into that schedule alright? Wouldn't want you breakin your back or anything. I love you little guy. You just keep gettin good grades and we're gonna party it up in p.town ... the COUGARS ARE OUT! haha As for Clint--live up the life of being a student. I pity the fool who doesn't take advantage of all the learning they can. YAY for nerds like us. Good luck in Oregon and keep truckin. Let me know all the deets about your projects! Rach-HOLY COW. woot woot. You are my inspiration to do more crunches and jump the rope a little faster in the morning. I'm so proud for the blue team! way to go! Amanda- I think my mom is a little more worried about you not having a kitchen than you may be, but have patience. Enjoy all the cute new stuff. ah, how fun, I now have two sisters. Jed- treat my new sister tenderly, got it? haha oh yeah, and I'm really proud of you and stuff for building your very own kitchen and fixing up YOUR house and being all grown-up with studying and working and having a wife. Congrats. Mitch- gee, I'd tell you to take it easy over there in Ecuador if you were doing the work of anybody else but the Lord's. KEEP IT UP! You seriously are such a great example to me, and I know that you're making a huge difference in the lives of those missionaries that you are over. Not to mention all of the lives you are eternally changing. You are doing an amazing job...keep it up!! Mother- I still haven't been able to watch the RS broadcast, it's shown saturday in the morning, but I'm really excited to see it all. Thanks for all of your motherly prayers and love, you'll never know how much they help me EVERY.DAY. and Pops- thank you SO MUCH for your letter. Crazy how much the mission is like a miny life packed into only a few months. I know I'm in Life-training right now. It's an incredible amount of how much we need our Heavenly Father in our lives to really be successful. I really feel like he's working miracles inside of me right now....miracles, because it's nothing that I have done.
As far as this week goes, I feel like Hna. Bustinza and I have gotten into a really good rhythm. We're focused in on the people that we are teaching and how we can help them. She teaches me how fried rice and chicken are good, healthy foods, and I teach her that peanut butter is the best thing that has ever happened to the earth. She tells me about how she helped battered and abused women that used to visit her in her salon, I tell her about how I want to record her incredible story and publish it in a book. She speaks really fast Peruvian, I speak really slow gringo spanish...we both have patience. She likes to do hair, I like to have my hair done. She has no problem being bold and direct, I struggle in that. I have no problem in brushing off the things that don't work out, she struggles in that.
Go team.
I've got a lot of things to still work out. I've got a lot of things to learn. I've got a lot of things that I just need to get rid of. But, I really feel like "the flow" has come...and I'm ready and willing to give it my ALL...heart, might, mind and strength baby. Like dad said, it's truly about BEing, it's truly about letting Christ change us, and the only possible way to have this happen is by letting the SPIRIT work in us, and through us. How important it is to trust the fact that our Heavenly Father is real, and is able to move the players and the actors of our lives whichever which way he wants.
We're so excited for conference, and we're hoping to just really excite everyone to go to the Stake Center, about a half hour away to let them hear the prophet and feel with their heart that their is a PROPHET on the earth today. The more I think about it, it truly is an incredible privilege and blessing to hear from him. I love this restored gospel and I love my Savior, and I have fallen in love with being a missionary.
Ready, get set, SPRINT! I love you all so much!! I hope you know that you all mean so much to me, and I love being a part of your life through your emails and words of encouragement! This little bit of my life is (amongst a lot of other things) very unique, and I'm very happy to be doing this.
I LOVEloveLOVEloveLOVE you all! SU Hermana HIJA
Sounds like things on the home front couldn't be busier or more successful! HOORAY! Curtis - try and fit a little more fun into that schedule alright? Wouldn't want you breakin your back or anything. I love you little guy. You just keep gettin good grades and we're gonna party it up in p.town ... the COUGARS ARE OUT! haha As for Clint--live up the life of being a student. I pity the fool who doesn't take advantage of all the learning they can. YAY for nerds like us. Good luck in Oregon and keep truckin. Let me know all the deets about your projects! Rach-HOLY COW. woot woot. You are my inspiration to do more crunches and jump the rope a little faster in the morning. I'm so proud for the blue team! way to go! Amanda- I think my mom is a little more worried about you not having a kitchen than you may be, but have patience. Enjoy all the cute new stuff. ah, how fun, I now have two sisters. Jed- treat my new sister tenderly, got it? haha oh yeah, and I'm really proud of you and stuff for building your very own kitchen and fixing up YOUR house and being all grown-up with studying and working and having a wife. Congrats. Mitch- gee, I'd tell you to take it easy over there in Ecuador if you were doing the work of anybody else but the Lord's. KEEP IT UP! You seriously are such a great example to me, and I know that you're making a huge difference in the lives of those missionaries that you are over. Not to mention all of the lives you are eternally changing. You are doing an amazing job...keep it up!! Mother- I still haven't been able to watch the RS broadcast, it's shown saturday in the morning, but I'm really excited to see it all. Thanks for all of your motherly prayers and love, you'll never know how much they help me EVERY.DAY. and Pops- thank you SO MUCH for your letter. Crazy how much the mission is like a miny life packed into only a few months. I know I'm in Life-training right now. It's an incredible amount of how much we need our Heavenly Father in our lives to really be successful. I really feel like he's working miracles inside of me right now....miracles, because it's nothing that I have done.
As far as this week goes, I feel like Hna. Bustinza and I have gotten into a really good rhythm. We're focused in on the people that we are teaching and how we can help them. She teaches me how fried rice and chicken are good, healthy foods, and I teach her that peanut butter is the best thing that has ever happened to the earth. She tells me about how she helped battered and abused women that used to visit her in her salon, I tell her about how I want to record her incredible story and publish it in a book. She speaks really fast Peruvian, I speak really slow gringo spanish...we both have patience. She likes to do hair, I like to have my hair done. She has no problem being bold and direct, I struggle in that. I have no problem in brushing off the things that don't work out, she struggles in that.
Go team.
I've got a lot of things to still work out. I've got a lot of things to learn. I've got a lot of things that I just need to get rid of. But, I really feel like "the flow" has come...and I'm ready and willing to give it my ALL...heart, might, mind and strength baby. Like dad said, it's truly about BEing, it's truly about letting Christ change us, and the only possible way to have this happen is by letting the SPIRIT work in us, and through us. How important it is to trust the fact that our Heavenly Father is real, and is able to move the players and the actors of our lives whichever which way he wants.
We're so excited for conference, and we're hoping to just really excite everyone to go to the Stake Center, about a half hour away to let them hear the prophet and feel with their heart that their is a PROPHET on the earth today. The more I think about it, it truly is an incredible privilege and blessing to hear from him. I love this restored gospel and I love my Savior, and I have fallen in love with being a missionary.
Ready, get set, SPRINT! I love you all so much!! I hope you know that you all mean so much to me, and I love being a part of your life through your emails and words of encouragement! This little bit of my life is (amongst a lot of other things) very unique, and I'm very happy to be doing this.
I LOVEloveLOVEloveLOVE you all! SU Hermana HIJA
Monday, September 26, 2011
September 18th - Half Way Under My Belt and Celebrating Chili's Independence
well hello hello hello to the Middlefork world! Let's just say I'd kinda forgotten what I looked like when left on my mission (thanks for the healthy reminder mom with the pics) haha great update!! With halfway under my belt, it kinda freaks me out that I've only got until May to get done all I've wanted to get done on the mishhhh! But, here goes nothing! Let's just say I introduced the little red book of exercises that mitch made for me this week to the other hnas. We're re-committed. In a lot more ways than one.
I've heard about the 18th of september ever since I got here to Chile....and let's just say (and I think Mitch has had weeks like this one) where there's a whole lot of partying, a whole lot of eating, a whole lot of throwing away responsibility, and very little concerned about their salvation. And I just keep trying to tell them eat drink and be merry isn't the best way to live their lives. We'll see where our efforts got us this week.
A little background: the 18th is when they celebrate their independece (like the 4th of July) - Mom, remember when we went to the festival with Dewey's granddaughter and husband to the party in SLC, where everything was in spanish and we ate empenadas and those delicious cookies? that was the 18th. They basically celebrate it with dressing up in traditional clothes and dance their national dance (the cueca) and eat a lot of traditional food.
You could probably say that I'm pretty much Chilean now, because a) I had a sister in the ward sew me a traditional dress, and although she didn't finish it in time for the 18 party, I now have one. b) I have drunk mote con huesillo. It's a typical drink - with stripped wheat (soaked), a syrupy juice, and canned peaches. Don't ask me why I like it, I couldn't tell you. c) I think I have empenadas coming out my ears lot's this week...some for breakfast, and I hear that we're going to have more in our lunch today. e) It's completely normal to see a bowl of corn, mayo and salt as a salad, and completely normal to eat it.
Needless to say, I'm excited to have a new week, a new cambio and a new opportunity to be a better missionary. This week there was a conference held for our mission, with Elder Richards (counselor in the area presidency of Chile) who came and really pumped us up to keep working hard, but in a manner that is more efficient and with the Spirit. A few points really stood out to me, about obedience, about the spirit and about being happy as a missionary. The only way that I am to have the spirit -and EVERYTHING depends on having the Spirit - is by being obedient. All the happiness that we enjoy, all of the love that we feel, all the confidence we have in the Lord, all of the good things we are prompted to do, all of the lessons that I am to teach, the scriptures I am to use, the people I should see, the positive attitude that we have to have...all comes from the spirit. And we are only able to have the spirit by being obedient and by keeping our covenants. It was a really beautiful conference.
As for the fam---Curt how's the prep coming? and college? and girls? plus, please live with me after your mission. Jed and Amanda - please tell me about the ISLAND life! Rach - tell me all about the triathalon - you go GIRL! Clint - I love you. Mom and Dad- thanks for everything. Dad - way to keep going strong.
I love you all more than anything! xoxoxox Hermana Chile
All of the sisters on the "inside" - near Concepcion - at the conference!
This is Carrie Davis' grandson and I - Elder Tueller!
Oh the perks of Chile - drying rabbit above the stove - YUM!
The 18th of September - Chile's Independence Day. We ate a LARGE meal with this adorable, humble family. It was like Christmas dinner.
My traditional "Cueca" dress...that I haven't yet been able to wear. Just you wait!
This is Matias who was baptized just a little bit ago, in his adorable traditional clothes. YAY!
I've heard about the 18th of september ever since I got here to Chile....and let's just say (and I think Mitch has had weeks like this one) where there's a whole lot of partying, a whole lot of eating, a whole lot of throwing away responsibility, and very little concerned about their salvation. And I just keep trying to tell them eat drink and be merry isn't the best way to live their lives. We'll see where our efforts got us this week.
A little background: the 18th is when they celebrate their independece (like the 4th of July) - Mom, remember when we went to the festival with Dewey's granddaughter and husband to the party in SLC, where everything was in spanish and we ate empenadas and those delicious cookies? that was the 18th. They basically celebrate it with dressing up in traditional clothes and dance their national dance (the cueca) and eat a lot of traditional food.
You could probably say that I'm pretty much Chilean now, because a) I had a sister in the ward sew me a traditional dress, and although she didn't finish it in time for the 18 party, I now have one. b) I have drunk mote con huesillo. It's a typical drink - with stripped wheat (soaked), a syrupy juice, and canned peaches. Don't ask me why I like it, I couldn't tell you. c) I think I have empenadas coming out my ears lot's this week...some for breakfast, and I hear that we're going to have more in our lunch today. e) It's completely normal to see a bowl of corn, mayo and salt as a salad, and completely normal to eat it.
Needless to say, I'm excited to have a new week, a new cambio and a new opportunity to be a better missionary. This week there was a conference held for our mission, with Elder Richards (counselor in the area presidency of Chile) who came and really pumped us up to keep working hard, but in a manner that is more efficient and with the Spirit. A few points really stood out to me, about obedience, about the spirit and about being happy as a missionary. The only way that I am to have the spirit -and EVERYTHING depends on having the Spirit - is by being obedient. All the happiness that we enjoy, all of the love that we feel, all the confidence we have in the Lord, all of the good things we are prompted to do, all of the lessons that I am to teach, the scriptures I am to use, the people I should see, the positive attitude that we have to have...all comes from the spirit. And we are only able to have the spirit by being obedient and by keeping our covenants. It was a really beautiful conference.
As for the fam---Curt how's the prep coming? and college? and girls? plus, please live with me after your mission. Jed and Amanda - please tell me about the ISLAND life! Rach - tell me all about the triathalon - you go GIRL! Clint - I love you. Mom and Dad- thanks for everything. Dad - way to keep going strong.
I love you all more than anything! xoxoxox Hermana Chile
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Always More....
WOOT WOOT WOOT!! look at the happily married couple! Sounds like everything was just fabulous! Everyone looks top notch and spiffy and camera worthy! Way to clean up! haha Couldn't be happier for everyone! Clint all shaven, Rach with perfect wavy hair - did you two get all sentimental remembering your big day? Seems just like yesterday..... mom - now there is one hot momma! Love the hair and the dress! You look very classy and cute. Good choice. dad- you are looking very handsome as well....I bet your program and words couldn't have been more perfect. And think of it this way - you've spent enough time in a wedding line to last you a lifetime...no need to go to another wedding in your life. eh? curt - I can't tell if your hair is still in a mohawk or not (i'm gonna just infer from how I remember mom being that that did not fly - or maybe? and rapping? boom baby. way to represent. oh, and how was waiting outside with all of the little kids? paha...not for long buddy. And I think I have to mention that the two most goodlookin characters were the ones next to the refreshment table who didn't move a muscle all night. hey hey.
Ohhh seems just like yesterday that I was the only one that Jed would cuddle up with during a movie night (nevermind that Mitch was like a teddy bear)...and lookie there, he's holding a girls hand and dipping her and kissing her....aw. I'm so proud of my biggie bro. haha they probably are a little unavailable right now, but when they get back, make sure that they get a big "FELICIDADES!" from the south and a big hug from the lil' sis.
As for my life and the work and the things that are happening this week we are just plugging along the best that we know how! I can't say - I don't think I'll ever be able to say - that I've reached a point of "comfort" in the mission..where I feel like I've got everything down and I'm just expected to continue. And I think that's how life is too. There is always more that we can learn and do, always more that we can be, always more that we can sacrifice and love and always more that we just can't do alone. From the time I wake up in the morning at 7:00, leave to go jogging with Hna. Da'Luz in the dark hours of the morning with thick fog, to the hours of studying we do afterwards, to the morning contacts, to the lunch with a member who just showers us with love and encouragement and support and sometimes strange conversion stories, then off to reciting the first vision in english and phrases like "watch out!" during language study, all the way to the lessons we have planned throughout the day, the family nights and the "push time!" and even all the way to planning and the final prayer of the day...during all of this time, I really try to give it all I've got...but when I stop to think about what I'm doing and what I've done, I really truly feel like there's more in me that I can give, there's more in me that I can do and change. Thank goodness I don't have to eat the whole elephant in one day...right?
This week we had a lot of beautiful moments and a lot of learning moments and I really am learning a whole lot in regards to this whole mission thing. I wish I could explain every person that I'm teaching and every lesson that we have and every missionary, member, and person that really has made an impact on me, and how I view myself and this whole life and gospel. But I don't have time nor the words to really do it. I just hope you all know that I have a testimony of this gospel and that I know that it blesses families, that it brings lasting changes, and that it really is the only way we can be comfortable and calm with ourselves and others in this life and in the next. How BEAUTIFUL heaven is going to be...with our little child row...and how wonderfully white and glorious we will be. I know that it's going to be so INCREDIBLE and so WORTH every effort we put into our testimonies and lives right NOW.
I love you all very very much. Sorry for the quick letter. Photos are of Hna. Bustinza and I (how lucky am I to go to bed and wake up with someone so CUTE?!!?) haha and Mitch keeps braggin about bringing blisters to his green bean...check these feetsies out. gross. haha and then a pic of a convert of Hna. Young....Patricio...and then also us in front of our house with Hna. Clawson - the "mother" of the office.
So great. Love you!! oxoxox
Hermana ChAIL
This is a picture of a convert of Hermana Young - Patricio
Here we are in front of our House with Hermana Clawson - the "mother" of the office.
Hermana Bustinza and I - How luck am I to have such a cute companion!!
My companion - Hermana Bustinza's feet :(
Ohhh seems just like yesterday that I was the only one that Jed would cuddle up with during a movie night (nevermind that Mitch was like a teddy bear)...and lookie there, he's holding a girls hand and dipping her and kissing her....aw. I'm so proud of my biggie bro. haha they probably are a little unavailable right now, but when they get back, make sure that they get a big "FELICIDADES!" from the south and a big hug from the lil' sis.
As for my life and the work and the things that are happening this week we are just plugging along the best that we know how! I can't say - I don't think I'll ever be able to say - that I've reached a point of "comfort" in the mission..where I feel like I've got everything down and I'm just expected to continue. And I think that's how life is too. There is always more that we can learn and do, always more that we can be, always more that we can sacrifice and love and always more that we just can't do alone. From the time I wake up in the morning at 7:00, leave to go jogging with Hna. Da'Luz in the dark hours of the morning with thick fog, to the hours of studying we do afterwards, to the morning contacts, to the lunch with a member who just showers us with love and encouragement and support and sometimes strange conversion stories, then off to reciting the first vision in english and phrases like "watch out!" during language study, all the way to the lessons we have planned throughout the day, the family nights and the "push time!" and even all the way to planning and the final prayer of the day...during all of this time, I really try to give it all I've got...but when I stop to think about what I'm doing and what I've done, I really truly feel like there's more in me that I can give, there's more in me that I can do and change. Thank goodness I don't have to eat the whole elephant in one day...right?
This week we had a lot of beautiful moments and a lot of learning moments and I really am learning a whole lot in regards to this whole mission thing. I wish I could explain every person that I'm teaching and every lesson that we have and every missionary, member, and person that really has made an impact on me, and how I view myself and this whole life and gospel. But I don't have time nor the words to really do it. I just hope you all know that I have a testimony of this gospel and that I know that it blesses families, that it brings lasting changes, and that it really is the only way we can be comfortable and calm with ourselves and others in this life and in the next. How BEAUTIFUL heaven is going to be...with our little child row...and how wonderfully white and glorious we will be. I know that it's going to be so INCREDIBLE and so WORTH every effort we put into our testimonies and lives right NOW.
I love you all very very much. Sorry for the quick letter. Photos are of Hna. Bustinza and I (how lucky am I to go to bed and wake up with someone so CUTE?!!?) haha and Mitch keeps braggin about bringing blisters to his green bean...check these feetsies out. gross. haha and then a pic of a convert of Hna. Young....Patricio...and then also us in front of our house with Hna. Clawson - the "mother" of the office.
So great. Love you!! oxoxox
Hermana ChAIL
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Hna. Bustinza and I getting into the flow of things...
Oh my gosh! What a great little update of what the fam is all up to way up North!! How incredibly excited I am for everything that you are all doing and are going to do this week!! HOLY SMOKES!! It's time to run on all 4 cylinders this week...GOOD LUCK!!
I sincerely hope that everything just is PERFECT! for the happy little couple. (and for the mother's sake as well). It sounds like so much work and planning has been put in on everyone's part to make it a really beautiful, memorable day and I'm sure it will just be so special and cute and wonderful to start out their little life together. Even if it is mixed in with top raman and 5 waffle makers, there isn't anything that you would want different right? I mean, really, what in the world makes us truly happy? It's those really sincere, lovely moments that we get to enjoy the individuality of every single person, and the details of the moment that you won't ever get again, and the ability and prospect of our own progression as people with an infinite potential. I'd say that Jedder and Amanda get to tick off every single one of those things during this week. With everything that goes with a wedding and a marriage, how incredibly special that you get to go through the temple this week. Unlike Mitch, I haven't been since I left Provo, but there is no doubt in my mind that it's a little piece of heaven here on this earth. Just be sure to make it a little part of your spirit while you're there so that you get to have it wherever you go - including, Jed and Amanda, when you make your new little house a home. Because it's that spirit that is the dearest thing that will make you the happiest. I just know it:)
This week I feel like Hna. Bustinza and I finally got into a flow of things - figuring out both of our strengths as missionaries and how we can work together as a team. She truly is an incredible missionary, and I feel VERY very blessed. Like Mitch, I still feel like I am the one that needs to be trained, but I guess that isn't exactly what the Lord had in mind for my personal growth. I do have to say, that she speaks Spanish much better than I do. And, more than once this week I had the humbling experience of people not understanding what I was saying so I have the blessing of being able to look at her and have her help me explain what I want to say. Like I said, I'm not finished being trained. :)
This week we actually found quite a few families that we are excited to be working with. There are extremely special moments when you get the opportunity as a missionary to knock on someone's door and explain briefly why you're there, and what you would like to help them with, and then offer them a message and the hope and the happiness that comes with the gospel of Jesus Christ. We met a mother, who is single, working hard to make ends meet, has the guilt of previously marrying someone that her parents told her not to (turns out he was a jerk), has the sadness of losing her mother when she was 16, has the burden of 3 children who need guidance and help and support, and who is admittedly not happy with her life. How do you meet someone who needs the gospel more in their life? And the best part? she realizes that she needs what we have to offer her. She is extremely receptive, and although she had to work this Sunday, her two children came with us to church. Talk about a turning point in your life. Little does she know that everything in her life can change. How powerful the Spirit is in lessons like that!
Also, let's just mention that it was a HIGHLIGHT of my LIFE today. We got special permission to go to the mall outside of our mission boundaries. We got to go bowling with our zone. My companion has never heard of bowling. However, it will come as a surprise to no one that is familiar with how good I am at bowling, that the darling Peruvian scored higher than I did at the end of the hour. She bowled a strike, while her companion was bringin up the rear, still trying to teach the newbie how to put her fingers in the holes. I tried to blame it on being out of practice. Then I remembered that the last time I went I didn't score any higher. haha So not embarrassing. Then, we got to eat at Pizza Hut. So delicious.
Anyway, I love you all. I will be thinking about you and praying that no rains come, and that the flowers still look fresh, that Curtis doesn't spill punch on his suit, and that Mitch and I will be mentioned in the luncheon or in some sentimental part (haha - nah! Forget about us and live up the party..or try to. :)
Mitch - loved the pics! I got your birthday card! I loved it! Sarah! I loved! your little Classroom! Becca - I wish you the best of luck with your wanderings! You're incredible. Clint and Rachel, I love you!
I LOVE YOU! this gospel is SO SO true!! Hope you all have a wonderful week! Take lots of pics!!
xoxoxo Hermana Chilly Willy
I sincerely hope that everything just is PERFECT! for the happy little couple. (and for the mother's sake as well). It sounds like so much work and planning has been put in on everyone's part to make it a really beautiful, memorable day and I'm sure it will just be so special and cute and wonderful to start out their little life together. Even if it is mixed in with top raman and 5 waffle makers, there isn't anything that you would want different right? I mean, really, what in the world makes us truly happy? It's those really sincere, lovely moments that we get to enjoy the individuality of every single person, and the details of the moment that you won't ever get again, and the ability and prospect of our own progression as people with an infinite potential. I'd say that Jedder and Amanda get to tick off every single one of those things during this week. With everything that goes with a wedding and a marriage, how incredibly special that you get to go through the temple this week. Unlike Mitch, I haven't been since I left Provo, but there is no doubt in my mind that it's a little piece of heaven here on this earth. Just be sure to make it a little part of your spirit while you're there so that you get to have it wherever you go - including, Jed and Amanda, when you make your new little house a home. Because it's that spirit that is the dearest thing that will make you the happiest. I just know it:)
This week I feel like Hna. Bustinza and I finally got into a flow of things - figuring out both of our strengths as missionaries and how we can work together as a team. She truly is an incredible missionary, and I feel VERY very blessed. Like Mitch, I still feel like I am the one that needs to be trained, but I guess that isn't exactly what the Lord had in mind for my personal growth. I do have to say, that she speaks Spanish much better than I do. And, more than once this week I had the humbling experience of people not understanding what I was saying so I have the blessing of being able to look at her and have her help me explain what I want to say. Like I said, I'm not finished being trained. :)
This week we actually found quite a few families that we are excited to be working with. There are extremely special moments when you get the opportunity as a missionary to knock on someone's door and explain briefly why you're there, and what you would like to help them with, and then offer them a message and the hope and the happiness that comes with the gospel of Jesus Christ. We met a mother, who is single, working hard to make ends meet, has the guilt of previously marrying someone that her parents told her not to (turns out he was a jerk), has the sadness of losing her mother when she was 16, has the burden of 3 children who need guidance and help and support, and who is admittedly not happy with her life. How do you meet someone who needs the gospel more in their life? And the best part? she realizes that she needs what we have to offer her. She is extremely receptive, and although she had to work this Sunday, her two children came with us to church. Talk about a turning point in your life. Little does she know that everything in her life can change. How powerful the Spirit is in lessons like that!
Also, let's just mention that it was a HIGHLIGHT of my LIFE today. We got special permission to go to the mall outside of our mission boundaries. We got to go bowling with our zone. My companion has never heard of bowling. However, it will come as a surprise to no one that is familiar with how good I am at bowling, that the darling Peruvian scored higher than I did at the end of the hour. She bowled a strike, while her companion was bringin up the rear, still trying to teach the newbie how to put her fingers in the holes. I tried to blame it on being out of practice. Then I remembered that the last time I went I didn't score any higher. haha So not embarrassing. Then, we got to eat at Pizza Hut. So delicious.
Anyway, I love you all. I will be thinking about you and praying that no rains come, and that the flowers still look fresh, that Curtis doesn't spill punch on his suit, and that Mitch and I will be mentioned in the luncheon or in some sentimental part (haha - nah! Forget about us and live up the party..or try to. :)
Mitch - loved the pics! I got your birthday card! I loved it! Sarah! I loved! your little Classroom! Becca - I wish you the best of luck with your wanderings! You're incredible. Clint and Rachel, I love you!
I LOVE YOU! this gospel is SO SO true!! Hope you all have a wonderful week! Take lots of pics!!
xoxoxo Hermana Chilly Willy
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Me and Hna. Bustinza had our first baptism this week!!
A Birthday Undercover, an invoking the Powers of Heaven, and 2 baptisms
Hi family!
This week was a crazy one, but very good! Time is starting to really fly to say the least. I still feel like I have so much to learn that somedays I feel like I haven't learned anything, but then I turn to my companion and help her memorize the first vision, and say to myself, okay, maybe I have learned a little bit in the time I've been here. weird.
On my birthday I had a few surprise calls to wake me that just made me really happy. One of them was from the mission couple in the office, Hna. Clawson, who told me that the only person that could make my birthday happy was me. So I took that advice. I made myself my own brownie, I gave someone else a present, I wore my favorite clothes, we found a new investigator, and we taught a lesson to a family that we're working with. Very different from other birthdays to say the least. But, who wants the same thing to happen every year? psh, boring.
With a family we're teaching we did something new with them called "invoking the powers of heaven" - where they list what they desire for their family, what they are willing to commit to do for God, and what they want God to help them do. By doing this, and keeping their commitments, they "obligate" God to help them have more unity and become one day an eternal family. We'll see how willing they are to follow through with their part to see the hand of God working in their lives.
Me and Hna. Bustinza had our first baptism this week too!! It was no "white night" but it was very very special for this grandma and her grandson. Rosa, mother of two daughters, is separated from her husband and lives with two of her grandsons, one of them who got baptized a few months ago, and the other, Matias, who ever since the first day we saw him has told us how he wants to get baptized. Let's just say the gospel is for everyone.
Christ can heal a 60 year old who has had horrible experiences with depression, sicknesses, and heartbreaks. He can give her hope to start over and begin a new life without sins and without having to look back into the past. He can help her be happy and can give her a family to help her raise hers. She sometimes wears metallic pants, makes delicious sopaipillas (scones), and is the most caring mother.
Also, Christ can make a 9 year old, who doesn't see his mom a lot because she works all the time, and only talks to his dad on the phone sometimes, have so much fun and make him so excited about life. Let's just say he takes notes in Primary about everything that the teacher says and all the scriptures they use, has the Joseph Smith story down pat, loves going to church and during his baptism his little legs almost floated to the top when they dunked him.
part of my letter to President about things I'm learning:
"I know many things happen when there is more responsibility placed upon someone's head; more is expected, more is learned, more is appreciated, and more is found within ones' self. How blessed I feel to be learning the lessons that are in front of me each day.
Before coming on a mission I had the strong impression that I needed to learn many things if I were ever to realize my eternal goals that I had placed for myself. About what the lessons would be, I had little to no idea. As the days of my mission pass by faster than I ever expected, I'm starting to realize incrementally what God had been trying to tell me my whole life, but I didn't realize; these lessons that were necessary for my eternal progression. I think He told me to come on a mission, among many reasons, to learn some of these things.
I could have learned these "life lessons" at other times in my life, I'm sure. But, the mission is so unique in that it forces you to face your biggest weaknesses, your biggest fears, right now; it forces you to figure out what you want out of life, and to strengthen your character. You can't just choose to avoid the hard stuff, you can't just quit and say you'll do it in the future. Many things are depending on you, acting, right now. Your own success and spirit, your companion's future, your investigator's eternity and your convert's salvation.
So with this responsibility, I have felt very small. All part of God's plan, right? To make sure that I'm humble, moldable and dependent on Him. Because there is surely no way that I can do this work without Him. In fact, it has made me so sure that one of the lessons that God wanted me to learn by telling me to go on a mission, was that of my Savior, Jesus Christ.
It seems that continually I am drawn back to the Atonement and how I can apply it in my life. I'm convinced that it's a real love, a real power, that can change us. I'm convinced that it's only Him that can help me rise to the challenges that I'm facing here in the mission. I'm convinced that only He can help me fulfill my responsibilities. How do I reach my goals? How do I find peace with what I am trying to accomplish? How do I find fulfillment? Do the best I can? Love everyone? It's sharing the load. It's sharing the load with my Savior, who is much stronger, much more prepared, much more wise, knows a lot more about the scriptures, knows much more about God's plan for others, and realizes the worth of a soul much more than I do.
It's a process, to build so much trust in someone that you've never seen. But I feel very sure that the promises that He can give me are real, so I will keep trying to overcome my weaknesses, I will keep trying to overcome my fears, and I will keep trying to learn these eternal lessons that my Heavenly Father wants me to learn. How grateful I am for the gospel in my life."
Anyway.... I love you all very much! Hope you can tell that I really love this whole mission thing. And that I am so happy for each of you - in all of your success and accomplishments and "growing up" that is going on.
todo mi amor, besos, y abrazos: su hna. Child
This week was a crazy one, but very good! Time is starting to really fly to say the least. I still feel like I have so much to learn that somedays I feel like I haven't learned anything, but then I turn to my companion and help her memorize the first vision, and say to myself, okay, maybe I have learned a little bit in the time I've been here. weird.
On my birthday I had a few surprise calls to wake me that just made me really happy. One of them was from the mission couple in the office, Hna. Clawson, who told me that the only person that could make my birthday happy was me. So I took that advice. I made myself my own brownie, I gave someone else a present, I wore my favorite clothes, we found a new investigator, and we taught a lesson to a family that we're working with. Very different from other birthdays to say the least. But, who wants the same thing to happen every year? psh, boring.
With a family we're teaching we did something new with them called "invoking the powers of heaven" - where they list what they desire for their family, what they are willing to commit to do for God, and what they want God to help them do. By doing this, and keeping their commitments, they "obligate" God to help them have more unity and become one day an eternal family. We'll see how willing they are to follow through with their part to see the hand of God working in their lives.
Me and Hna. Bustinza had our first baptism this week too!! It was no "white night" but it was very very special for this grandma and her grandson. Rosa, mother of two daughters, is separated from her husband and lives with two of her grandsons, one of them who got baptized a few months ago, and the other, Matias, who ever since the first day we saw him has told us how he wants to get baptized. Let's just say the gospel is for everyone.
Christ can heal a 60 year old who has had horrible experiences with depression, sicknesses, and heartbreaks. He can give her hope to start over and begin a new life without sins and without having to look back into the past. He can help her be happy and can give her a family to help her raise hers. She sometimes wears metallic pants, makes delicious sopaipillas (scones), and is the most caring mother.
Also, Christ can make a 9 year old, who doesn't see his mom a lot because she works all the time, and only talks to his dad on the phone sometimes, have so much fun and make him so excited about life. Let's just say he takes notes in Primary about everything that the teacher says and all the scriptures they use, has the Joseph Smith story down pat, loves going to church and during his baptism his little legs almost floated to the top when they dunked him.
part of my letter to President about things I'm learning:
"I know many things happen when there is more responsibility placed upon someone's head; more is expected, more is learned, more is appreciated, and more is found within ones' self. How blessed I feel to be learning the lessons that are in front of me each day.
Before coming on a mission I had the strong impression that I needed to learn many things if I were ever to realize my eternal goals that I had placed for myself. About what the lessons would be, I had little to no idea. As the days of my mission pass by faster than I ever expected, I'm starting to realize incrementally what God had been trying to tell me my whole life, but I didn't realize; these lessons that were necessary for my eternal progression. I think He told me to come on a mission, among many reasons, to learn some of these things.
I could have learned these "life lessons" at other times in my life, I'm sure. But, the mission is so unique in that it forces you to face your biggest weaknesses, your biggest fears, right now; it forces you to figure out what you want out of life, and to strengthen your character. You can't just choose to avoid the hard stuff, you can't just quit and say you'll do it in the future. Many things are depending on you, acting, right now. Your own success and spirit, your companion's future, your investigator's eternity and your convert's salvation.
So with this responsibility, I have felt very small. All part of God's plan, right? To make sure that I'm humble, moldable and dependent on Him. Because there is surely no way that I can do this work without Him. In fact, it has made me so sure that one of the lessons that God wanted me to learn by telling me to go on a mission, was that of my Savior, Jesus Christ.
It seems that continually I am drawn back to the Atonement and how I can apply it in my life. I'm convinced that it's a real love, a real power, that can change us. I'm convinced that it's only Him that can help me rise to the challenges that I'm facing here in the mission. I'm convinced that only He can help me fulfill my responsibilities. How do I reach my goals? How do I find peace with what I am trying to accomplish? How do I find fulfillment? Do the best I can? Love everyone? It's sharing the load. It's sharing the load with my Savior, who is much stronger, much more prepared, much more wise, knows a lot more about the scriptures, knows much more about God's plan for others, and realizes the worth of a soul much more than I do.
It's a process, to build so much trust in someone that you've never seen. But I feel very sure that the promises that He can give me are real, so I will keep trying to overcome my weaknesses, I will keep trying to overcome my fears, and I will keep trying to learn these eternal lessons that my Heavenly Father wants me to learn. How grateful I am for the gospel in my life."
Anyway.... I love you all very much! Hope you can tell that I really love this whole mission thing. And that I am so happy for each of you - in all of your success and accomplishments and "growing up" that is going on.
todo mi amor, besos, y abrazos: su hna. Child
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
You Go Be "Amazing Missionary"
First of all, thank you all for the happy birthday wishes. I feel older and more mature already....sorta. Strange to think that one year ago my call came in the mail. weird. If I really wanted to be sentimental I'd say something now like....My life will never be the same.....haha
I'm glad that all of you had such a good, busy! week! Honestly, these past 7 days are like a blur. I can't believe it's already Monday again. Actually this week, when somebody asked me how much time I had left in the mission and I told them "a ton -- more than a year" --- I realized how big of a lie that was. oops. Definitely not more than a year.
I feel like I've learned more in the past two weeks than I have in my whole mission - because I've really had to. Crazy how necessity really pushes us to rise to the occasion. And it's really humbling when you realize that even though you are trying your hardest, it still sometimes isn't enough. Even though you plan the best you can the night before for the next day, there are only so many "back-up plans" you can have for the day, when all of your appointments fall and you find yourself looking at your companion and saying, "now would be a great time to practice your contacts." :) Part o' the mish, right?
A few "tender mercies" that were sprinkled on me this week:
-Hermana Da'Luz takes the time to teach me how to plan and how to teach and how to love and how to live the gospel.
-Hna. Bustinza made fried hotdogs, fried eggs and rice for me.
-We have two baptisms planned for this week, Rosa and her grandson Matias, who are so adorable and desire to be baptized to follow Christ, and need Him in their lives.
-For the month of July our mission hit 115 baptisms for the month. Boo-ya.
-Our zone (2 districts, 12 people) completed 9 baptisms this month--our goal. So our leaders prepared us a Mexican lunch today - complete with burritos, salsa and chips, and topped with chocolate ice-cream. MMMmmMMM
-I haven't had a sleepless night yet on the mission, in fact, I don't remember 30 seconds after my head hits the pillow every night.
-we did a service project with a less-active family. Back-shed clean-out...let's just say it was a little worse than a Morris-home clean out. Thanks for the training mom.
-there was actually a warm day this week. Not even a coat. SO fantastic.
-I got 2 letters from home and a package! Thank you!
Along with the privilege to be apart of this great work, I really feel blessed to be here in Chile, doing what I'm doing. I wouldn't want to be doing anything else in my life. How blessed we are to truly be partakers of this AMAZING gospel. I can't thank you enough for the prayers and encouragement and love and thoughts sent my way. You keep me going strong.
hit 'er hard this week! The showers look like they were a hit! I'm so excited for everything you're doing! Curt--you go COLLEGE! Mitch--you go BAPTIZE! Rach--you go RUN-BIKE-SWIM! Clint--you go FINISH! Jed--you go BE TENDER! Amanda--you go BRIDE! Mom--you go MAKE CREPES, ADDRESS INVITATIONS, HUNT FOR A PERFECT DRESS, BE R.S.P., SEND YOUR BABY OFF TO COLLEGE, and could you send me Reese's? Dad--you go TAKER EASY with that jack-hammer. We don't want another head injury like that time you took an ax to your head. I want to see you alive again.
I love you all so much! xoxo
Hermana Ch-AY!-LLLL
I'm glad that all of you had such a good, busy! week! Honestly, these past 7 days are like a blur. I can't believe it's already Monday again. Actually this week, when somebody asked me how much time I had left in the mission and I told them "a ton -- more than a year" --- I realized how big of a lie that was. oops. Definitely not more than a year.
I feel like I've learned more in the past two weeks than I have in my whole mission - because I've really had to. Crazy how necessity really pushes us to rise to the occasion. And it's really humbling when you realize that even though you are trying your hardest, it still sometimes isn't enough. Even though you plan the best you can the night before for the next day, there are only so many "back-up plans" you can have for the day, when all of your appointments fall and you find yourself looking at your companion and saying, "now would be a great time to practice your contacts." :) Part o' the mish, right?
A few "tender mercies" that were sprinkled on me this week:
-Hermana Da'Luz takes the time to teach me how to plan and how to teach and how to love and how to live the gospel.
-Hna. Bustinza made fried hotdogs, fried eggs and rice for me.
-We have two baptisms planned for this week, Rosa and her grandson Matias, who are so adorable and desire to be baptized to follow Christ, and need Him in their lives.
-For the month of July our mission hit 115 baptisms for the month. Boo-ya.
-Our zone (2 districts, 12 people) completed 9 baptisms this month--our goal. So our leaders prepared us a Mexican lunch today - complete with burritos, salsa and chips, and topped with chocolate ice-cream. MMMmmMMM
-I haven't had a sleepless night yet on the mission, in fact, I don't remember 30 seconds after my head hits the pillow every night.
-we did a service project with a less-active family. Back-shed clean-out...let's just say it was a little worse than a Morris-home clean out. Thanks for the training mom.
-there was actually a warm day this week. Not even a coat. SO fantastic.
-I got 2 letters from home and a package! Thank you!
Along with the privilege to be apart of this great work, I really feel blessed to be here in Chile, doing what I'm doing. I wouldn't want to be doing anything else in my life. How blessed we are to truly be partakers of this AMAZING gospel. I can't thank you enough for the prayers and encouragement and love and thoughts sent my way. You keep me going strong.
hit 'er hard this week! The showers look like they were a hit! I'm so excited for everything you're doing! Curt--you go COLLEGE! Mitch--you go BAPTIZE! Rach--you go RUN-BIKE-SWIM! Clint--you go FINISH! Jed--you go BE TENDER! Amanda--you go BRIDE! Mom--you go MAKE CREPES, ADDRESS INVITATIONS, HUNT FOR A PERFECT DRESS, BE R.S.P., SEND YOUR BABY OFF TO COLLEGE, and could you send me Reese's? Dad--you go TAKER EASY with that jack-hammer. We don't want another head injury like that time you took an ax to your head. I want to see you alive again.
I love you all so much! xoxo
Hermana Ch-AY!-LLLL
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Hermana Bustinza Arrives
WO-HO family! good email day if I do say so myself!! :) MUCHAS GRACIAS!! I feel closer to home already with just a little update from you all! It's good to know that you're all living, loving, laughing, and learning... ah, so sweet. Also, I love that you're still kickin trash in triathalons and you have no idea how proud I am that my family had a sushi night. It all began eating Thai food for my birthday 2 years ago...
As far as this week goes...I can't believe that it's been a week already since the last time that I wrote you. Time is beginning to fly by like it never has before. I think a big part of that is being the busiest than I've ever been as well. I'm such a proud little mother. Honestly, it's times like these when I realize that the Lord is just so gentle with us. He just sees how sensitive I am, and just knows me so well, that he says, here ya go Kel, I know that you're new to this whole mission thing, and training thing, and I have someone that's perfect for ya. He wants me to grow, but He doesn't want it to be too painful. That's where Hermana Bustinza comes in. She's just this adorable little Peruvian who couldn't have been pumped with more spiritual juice before coming here. She truly is incredible. She has all of the energy and capabilities in the world, and she learns more from me, than I do from her in this cambio, it will be a mircacle. profile: she is 26, convert of 6 years, has 6 siblings (4 of them are members, parents are not members), is a hairstylist and student (studying to be a farmacist), loves to cook, read, and share the gospel. Did I mention that the first day she said, okay, you just tell me what I need to do, and I'll do it, I'll do anything you tell me. Haha...I haven't taken advantage of that yet :) She invited someone to be baptized her first day, and she is just very kind and loving to everyone, asking to serve and help and testify. It's incredible.
Starting this cambio, we've implemented a new "training" program...that lasts 2 cambios (12 weeks). It's an additional hour of companionship study in the morning, and it's goal is to have the greenie be able to train after 12 weeks. It's really great. Every week there's something new that we apply (i.e. switching off in contacts, and have the newbie take the initiative in inviting people to be baptized.) They've given us portable DVD players to have in our homes and we get to watch the "District" - real life examples of missionaries applying what they've learned, to help us learn how to do it.
I'm having a hard time attaching photos, but if I get them sent, you'll see that Hna. Bustinza cooked us a Peruvian dish with rice and fried chicken, and has taught me how to say hello in Cetchwa. (I'm teaching her English, but "Hello" and "cute" have taken us all week to learn). (you'll also note in the pics that she looks like a very serious, fun-sucker, but for some reason these latinos think its more natural to not smile in pics - - I think they're trying to be models or something).
Other highlights of the week: Jose Luis and Petronila got confirmed this week! Thanks to a lot of your prayers! Thank you! We're just gonna keep on truckin with the rest of our investigators, and hopefully find some new ones this week that are willing and ready to accept our message.
This mission thing is really great. I've never fallen to sleep so quickly, I have never spent a whole day speaking Spanish until now, I've never talked to so many strangers, nor have I ever had so much time to build my testimony and build my faith in what Heavenly Father counsels me to do. It's really something.
I love you all so much! Keep sendin prayers my way- - - they help so much!!
I hope all is going well at home!! I love you all!
xoxoxoxoxo, hna child
As far as this week goes...I can't believe that it's been a week already since the last time that I wrote you. Time is beginning to fly by like it never has before. I think a big part of that is being the busiest than I've ever been as well. I'm such a proud little mother. Honestly, it's times like these when I realize that the Lord is just so gentle with us. He just sees how sensitive I am, and just knows me so well, that he says, here ya go Kel, I know that you're new to this whole mission thing, and training thing, and I have someone that's perfect for ya. He wants me to grow, but He doesn't want it to be too painful. That's where Hermana Bustinza comes in. She's just this adorable little Peruvian who couldn't have been pumped with more spiritual juice before coming here. She truly is incredible. She has all of the energy and capabilities in the world, and she learns more from me, than I do from her in this cambio, it will be a mircacle. profile: she is 26, convert of 6 years, has 6 siblings (4 of them are members, parents are not members), is a hairstylist and student (studying to be a farmacist), loves to cook, read, and share the gospel. Did I mention that the first day she said, okay, you just tell me what I need to do, and I'll do it, I'll do anything you tell me. Haha...I haven't taken advantage of that yet :) She invited someone to be baptized her first day, and she is just very kind and loving to everyone, asking to serve and help and testify. It's incredible.
Starting this cambio, we've implemented a new "training" program...that lasts 2 cambios (12 weeks). It's an additional hour of companionship study in the morning, and it's goal is to have the greenie be able to train after 12 weeks. It's really great. Every week there's something new that we apply (i.e. switching off in contacts, and have the newbie take the initiative in inviting people to be baptized.) They've given us portable DVD players to have in our homes and we get to watch the "District" - real life examples of missionaries applying what they've learned, to help us learn how to do it.
I'm having a hard time attaching photos, but if I get them sent, you'll see that Hna. Bustinza cooked us a Peruvian dish with rice and fried chicken, and has taught me how to say hello in Cetchwa. (I'm teaching her English, but "Hello" and "cute" have taken us all week to learn). (you'll also note in the pics that she looks like a very serious, fun-sucker, but for some reason these latinos think its more natural to not smile in pics - - I think they're trying to be models or something).
Other highlights of the week: Jose Luis and Petronila got confirmed this week! Thanks to a lot of your prayers! Thank you! We're just gonna keep on truckin with the rest of our investigators, and hopefully find some new ones this week that are willing and ready to accept our message.
This mission thing is really great. I've never fallen to sleep so quickly, I have never spent a whole day speaking Spanish until now, I've never talked to so many strangers, nor have I ever had so much time to build my testimony and build my faith in what Heavenly Father counsels me to do. It's really something.
I love you all so much! Keep sendin prayers my way- - - they help so much!!
I hope all is going well at home!! I love you all!
xoxoxoxoxo, hna child
Monday, August 8, 2011
One Thing I've Learned - Change and Challenge make us Progress!
¡¡Saludos del Sur!! ¿Como estan todos?
Makes me very very happy to hear that you're all doing well! I'll try to make this a very exciting and eventful email so that you'll want to keep reading every Monday :) ... and let me tell you, there are quite a few "exciting" things I could tell you about this week.
First of all, it was the last week of Hna. Cortes. I think I made her walk the fastest that she's ever walked in her mish..haha j-k. She was as constant as ever and really kept her excitement up for the work until the very end. I helped remind her to eat (a healthy way to 6 weeks to sexy) and plan out her outfit for the plane ride. She helped me find new people to teach, and testify with pure power! I really have learned SO much from her, and am really going to miss her. She has a plan to return to Panama and baptize two of her siblings, reactivate the other 5 plus her mom, and then find her dad and baptize him as well. Boom Baby. She's got a lot on her plate, and if you can imagine, was a little nervous.
As for what she left behind, was little Hermana Child in the sector of Hualqui...who is going to get a new companion. A very new companion. SO fresh in fact you could say that they will be as green as green can get. Hermana Child is going to be, as they say in the mission, a "mama"!! I'm going to be training. Let's just say I feel like a little Child myself still. I feel like I just barely started, and still have SO much to learn. But, oh, if there is one thing that I have learned on the mission it is that change and challenge is what makes us progress...is what makes us become the person that really we were meant to be all along. So, we're just going to plunge in. It's 100% sure that she will be Latina, from Peru or El Salvador. I'll find out tomorrow when I go to meet her!! Wooooo how exciting!
Also, turns out that Hermana Young will be heading up to Consti!! YAY! She'll be with Hna. Steinmetz (I think I sent pics of her before) and living with Hna. Sieverts. I think she might be sick of me telling her how much she'll love it.
As for other things that happened this week....We had a crazy time getting people to church. Long story short, Jose Luis and Petronila didn't end up getting confirmed this week....but that's Hermana Child and Hija's job this week. To get all this roped in together and get some things happening over and down here in Hualqui. It's interesting how we expect people to be as converted to the gospel, and understand the basic principles in all of their depth, after a month or two of learning and applying...when I myself am only beginning to understand what faith and repentance really mean. I am learning that conversion really is a process, and that the Atonement is central to that process.
Sorry that this letter is so short, but I've got to be running...here's a little glip of what I wrote to the President:
...."I am here to tell you I am up for the challenge that this cambio will bring! I have been very blessed throughout my life and throughout my mission, and I find myself ever slipping into more debt with my Heavenly Father and Savior Jesus Christ. I am excited to pass along the things that I have learned so far from being a missionary, and even more looking forward to the things that I am going to be learning!
I know that there are many things that the Lord still has to teach me and things that He still wants me to do and be, and I know that with each change, and each challenge come these blessings - some great and some small. But the challenges and changes and the blessings come. I am determined to be a good example and to work together as a companionship to help many people come to know their Savior, feel of His love, and partake of the most delicious and enriching life that they'll have ever known."
Live up the best month ever!! (I've always been partial to August) ... and be more MAGNIFICENT than you've ever been.
I love you all VERY much.
Thanks so much for all the prayers!! They're helping me a whole lot.
Hermana Hermana (they've given up trying to say our last name....so it's Hermana Hermana)
Makes me very very happy to hear that you're all doing well! I'll try to make this a very exciting and eventful email so that you'll want to keep reading every Monday :) ... and let me tell you, there are quite a few "exciting" things I could tell you about this week.
First of all, it was the last week of Hna. Cortes. I think I made her walk the fastest that she's ever walked in her mish..haha j-k. She was as constant as ever and really kept her excitement up for the work until the very end. I helped remind her to eat (a healthy way to 6 weeks to sexy) and plan out her outfit for the plane ride. She helped me find new people to teach, and testify with pure power! I really have learned SO much from her, and am really going to miss her. She has a plan to return to Panama and baptize two of her siblings, reactivate the other 5 plus her mom, and then find her dad and baptize him as well. Boom Baby. She's got a lot on her plate, and if you can imagine, was a little nervous.
As for what she left behind, was little Hermana Child in the sector of Hualqui...who is going to get a new companion. A very new companion. SO fresh in fact you could say that they will be as green as green can get. Hermana Child is going to be, as they say in the mission, a "mama"!! I'm going to be training. Let's just say I feel like a little Child myself still. I feel like I just barely started, and still have SO much to learn. But, oh, if there is one thing that I have learned on the mission it is that change and challenge is what makes us progress...is what makes us become the person that really we were meant to be all along. So, we're just going to plunge in. It's 100% sure that she will be Latina, from Peru or El Salvador. I'll find out tomorrow when I go to meet her!! Wooooo how exciting!
Also, turns out that Hermana Young will be heading up to Consti!! YAY! She'll be with Hna. Steinmetz (I think I sent pics of her before) and living with Hna. Sieverts. I think she might be sick of me telling her how much she'll love it.
As for other things that happened this week....We had a crazy time getting people to church. Long story short, Jose Luis and Petronila didn't end up getting confirmed this week....but that's Hermana Child and Hija's job this week. To get all this roped in together and get some things happening over and down here in Hualqui. It's interesting how we expect people to be as converted to the gospel, and understand the basic principles in all of their depth, after a month or two of learning and applying...when I myself am only beginning to understand what faith and repentance really mean. I am learning that conversion really is a process, and that the Atonement is central to that process.
Sorry that this letter is so short, but I've got to be running...here's a little glip of what I wrote to the President:
...."I am here to tell you I am up for the challenge that this cambio will bring! I have been very blessed throughout my life and throughout my mission, and I find myself ever slipping into more debt with my Heavenly Father and Savior Jesus Christ. I am excited to pass along the things that I have learned so far from being a missionary, and even more looking forward to the things that I am going to be learning!
I know that there are many things that the Lord still has to teach me and things that He still wants me to do and be, and I know that with each change, and each challenge come these blessings - some great and some small. But the challenges and changes and the blessings come. I am determined to be a good example and to work together as a companionship to help many people come to know their Savior, feel of His love, and partake of the most delicious and enriching life that they'll have ever known."
Live up the best month ever!! (I've always been partial to August) ... and be more MAGNIFICENT than you've ever been.
I love you all VERY much.
Thanks so much for all the prayers!! They're helping me a whole lot.
Hermana Hermana (they've given up trying to say our last name....so it's Hermana Hermana)
Photos of the week - August 8th
Sunday, July 31, 2011
The Parable of the Tube of Toothpaste
Hi fam!
So last week, Hna Cortes went to say goodbye to one of her sectors, and let's just say 8 hours on a bus wasn't exactly what I had in mind for my P-day, but it went well and we're all just hunky-dorey. President has allowed the missionaries that are leaving say goodbye to 2 sectors, on P-days. So that's where we were.
This week has been one of ... a lot of different emotions and crazy ups and downs, but mainly we're just going through the pleasant refiners' fire that leads us all to become better people and come out on top as the people that we're really meant to be. Lovely how sometimes you feel like a tube of toothpaste at the end of its life... squeezing all that you can out of the little top because you know that there's just a little bit in there. Even when you think you've given it all you've got, the Lord knows that you've got a little more left to give and so He invites you to give it all up. Invites you to love the people that are prickled with thorns, invites you to be patient with your companion who loves to walk slow, invites you to teach and testify to everyone you see (and when was the last time that was easy for anyone?). Because He knows you can do it. He knows you've got enough toothpaste in there to make a pearly smile one day...
There were several miracles that God helped us with this week! We found a woman, Abigail, from knocking her door, and after a lesson about the restoration and an explanation of the Book of Mormon, turns out she was curious and wanted to know more. She was well into the Book of Mormon by the time we met with her again. And told us that she was probably going to start over because it was probably really important. okay, thank you Heavenly Father.
Also, Jose Luis has had some trouble giving up drinking. But, after really stressing the importance of repentance and the strength that we can receive from righteous friends, reading in the Book of Mormon, praying and going to church, he DIDN'T DRINK! At his brother's birthday party...just a coke. Yeah, I just read through that sentence again and realized that in normal, non-missionary life that wouldn't have made me half as happy as I felt when I found that out. But, it's really so great when you see the changes that come slowly and surely into a person's life as they let the gospel envelope them.
As far as Petronila goes, she is just a hoot all the time. She is hesitant about getting baptized not for the commitment or for the enduring to the end that comes after. No, she is hesitant to get into the water for several reasons that I have not had to deal with yet on the mission: 1. She doesn't want to slip. 2. She doesn't want to drown. 3. She doesn't want to catch pneumonia in the bathroom when she has to change. 4. She doesn't want to leave with wet hair.
We're gonna get the space heaters and the hair dryers and the towells ready in the bathroom, but you can only assure a Chilean so many times that going from a very warm place to a cooler place will not cause you to catch a cold. I'm not quite how that tradition got started.
I love you all so much! I hope that you are all doing well, and living up life. This experience is the most unique thing that I have ever done, and I wouldn't trade it for anything, but I hope you know that you owe me big time to catch up when I get back :)
xoxoxox
tu hermana
So last week, Hna Cortes went to say goodbye to one of her sectors, and let's just say 8 hours on a bus wasn't exactly what I had in mind for my P-day, but it went well and we're all just hunky-dorey. President has allowed the missionaries that are leaving say goodbye to 2 sectors, on P-days. So that's where we were.
This week has been one of ... a lot of different emotions and crazy ups and downs, but mainly we're just going through the pleasant refiners' fire that leads us all to become better people and come out on top as the people that we're really meant to be. Lovely how sometimes you feel like a tube of toothpaste at the end of its life... squeezing all that you can out of the little top because you know that there's just a little bit in there. Even when you think you've given it all you've got, the Lord knows that you've got a little more left to give and so He invites you to give it all up. Invites you to love the people that are prickled with thorns, invites you to be patient with your companion who loves to walk slow, invites you to teach and testify to everyone you see (and when was the last time that was easy for anyone?). Because He knows you can do it. He knows you've got enough toothpaste in there to make a pearly smile one day...
There were several miracles that God helped us with this week! We found a woman, Abigail, from knocking her door, and after a lesson about the restoration and an explanation of the Book of Mormon, turns out she was curious and wanted to know more. She was well into the Book of Mormon by the time we met with her again. And told us that she was probably going to start over because it was probably really important. okay, thank you Heavenly Father.
Also, Jose Luis has had some trouble giving up drinking. But, after really stressing the importance of repentance and the strength that we can receive from righteous friends, reading in the Book of Mormon, praying and going to church, he DIDN'T DRINK! At his brother's birthday party...just a coke. Yeah, I just read through that sentence again and realized that in normal, non-missionary life that wouldn't have made me half as happy as I felt when I found that out. But, it's really so great when you see the changes that come slowly and surely into a person's life as they let the gospel envelope them.
As far as Petronila goes, she is just a hoot all the time. She is hesitant about getting baptized not for the commitment or for the enduring to the end that comes after. No, she is hesitant to get into the water for several reasons that I have not had to deal with yet on the mission: 1. She doesn't want to slip. 2. She doesn't want to drown. 3. She doesn't want to catch pneumonia in the bathroom when she has to change. 4. She doesn't want to leave with wet hair.
We're gonna get the space heaters and the hair dryers and the towells ready in the bathroom, but you can only assure a Chilean so many times that going from a very warm place to a cooler place will not cause you to catch a cold. I'm not quite how that tradition got started.
I love you all so much! I hope that you are all doing well, and living up life. This experience is the most unique thing that I have ever done, and I wouldn't trade it for anything, but I hope you know that you owe me big time to catch up when I get back :)
xoxoxox
tu hermana
Just So You Know!!
Hi Mom of Hermana Child!!!!
Sister Young here letting you know that Hermana Child might not get the chance to write you today because she went with Hna Cortes to say goodbye to her old sectors in linares....
She wanted me to alert you!
I love your daughter dearly, and thank Heavenly Father every day that I get to be here with her, serving alongside the best missionary in the mision chile Concepcion! She is a LIGHT, and lifts my spirits daily. She is a star.
Thank you for being wonderful parents!!!
xoxo
hna Young
Sister Young here letting you know that Hermana Child might not get the chance to write you today because she went with Hna Cortes to say goodbye to her old sectors in linares....
She wanted me to alert you!
I love your daughter dearly, and thank Heavenly Father every day that I get to be here with her, serving alongside the best missionary in the mision chile Concepcion! She is a LIGHT, and lifts my spirits daily. She is a star.
Thank you for being wonderful parents!!!
xoxo
hna Young
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
"We Did a lot of Walking" this Week...
hahahaha so great to hear all of the fun adventures that happened this week!! wa-hoo for lp week!! Curt, hopefully you survived the couple scene (note: you didn't have to deal with the p.d.a. of Cassie and Preston...and hopefully Jed and Amanda are keeping things under control. That's your chore for these next 9 weeks) :) Good to see Dad's spray is still WAMPIN and Curt is lookin BIG in those pics, and Rach's spray is really high, and looks like someone forgot to take photos of Mom again AND make a sandcastle in my memory. But, Amanda is just adorable. and jed, remember how you need to take the tank top off to get a tan? nah, who cares.
So the big day is 9 weeks and counting!!??!! YAY!! Holy smokes. Good luck. Sage, coral and eggplant=great, love it. ( even though you probably weren't waiting to get the okay from me clear down south, I definitely approve.) I'm all for the cardboard cutout...with that sd card, you want to send me a really cute dress or something with the colors? that would be great. Not gonna lie, the clothes are getting a little old, but I'm holdin out. Especially since I think some of the people here have seen nothing but my large black coat (Like Lynn I'm tempted to throw on the old sweats on underneath somedays.) But as for the other plans, everything sounds super great! Keep me updated on everything (and my request would be that Amanda and Jed both write me, since I think it's hilarious the different details that a boy and girl give...Amanda whose got the wedding preparation and Jed whose got the buying house on his mind :) I love it.
And it if rains...
You should totally buy coordinating umbrellas and do it outside anyway, right rach? haha
Not that you need any help, or any more wedding blogs, but greenweddingsshoes.com has really cute ideas. Ah, this is so shameless, i'm on the mish and still remember the address.
As for this week, we're just gonna say that "we did a lot of walking" which is basically code in the mission for not teaching/finding people to teach, and not getting in the houses to sit down and teach. When somebody asks how the work is going and the response is "we're doing a lot of walking" - either people are not letting you in at all, you need to be a more effective/efficient missionary, planning wasn't done well, or you have a stamp on your forehead that says "danger" don't talk to me. I'm thinking it's a mixture of them all. So we're just gonna arrange a few things, fix what's broken, be a little more patient and go at it again hard this week.
Yuyuniz (pronounced Ju-ju-niece) who was supposed to get baptized this week...well it didn't happen. Her grandmother has cancer and is just finishing her treatments, so her immune system is really low right now and she's not really capable of being out in public or around a lot of people, so we're planning a more private baptism for this Saturday where she and her family and those of the ward that aren't sick can come. It should be really great.
As for Petronila (the granny) and Jose Luis (her son, 28, who has problems with drinking), they didn't come to church this week, so they won't be able to be baptized for some time. We're still struggling with how to put the fire in them to really want to follow Christ and have the confidence that through Him they can change.
expert from letter to president:
As for this week, I don't think I've ever entered in lower numbers. But, just as with anything hard, you learn and grow and become stronger for the times that are to come. I am learning a lot about what it means to be an effective, efficient, "Preach My Gospel" missionary. I'm learning what my strengths are as a missionary and what I have to give to the Lord in this work. I'm learning to deeply love the scriptures and the sacred time I have to converse with my Heavenly Father. I'm learning that you can be busy without getting things done, and you can get things done only with the spirit in this work. Also, I am learning why we are given companions, leaders and support systems in this mission. What a million and one blessings and tools the Lord has given us as missionaries for us to succeed!
Hualqui, although different than Constitucion, has its own miracles and blessings awaiting us, and I know if there is patience, real effort and real dependence on the Lord, He will never fail us. Thank the heavens for times like these so that we can appreciate the miracles and changes when they come.
Well, I love you all more than I'll ever be able to write in an email. I wish I could give you one big hug and tell you all that. You all are amazing and I appreciate your love and support so much. I'm reminded of your incredible examples everyday.
con MUCHO amor,
tu hermana
So the big day is 9 weeks and counting!!??!! YAY!! Holy smokes. Good luck. Sage, coral and eggplant=great, love it. ( even though you probably weren't waiting to get the okay from me clear down south, I definitely approve.) I'm all for the cardboard cutout...with that sd card, you want to send me a really cute dress or something with the colors? that would be great. Not gonna lie, the clothes are getting a little old, but I'm holdin out. Especially since I think some of the people here have seen nothing but my large black coat (Like Lynn I'm tempted to throw on the old sweats on underneath somedays.) But as for the other plans, everything sounds super great! Keep me updated on everything (and my request would be that Amanda and Jed both write me, since I think it's hilarious the different details that a boy and girl give...Amanda whose got the wedding preparation and Jed whose got the buying house on his mind :) I love it.
And it if rains...
You should totally buy coordinating umbrellas and do it outside anyway, right rach? haha
Not that you need any help, or any more wedding blogs, but greenweddingsshoes.com has really cute ideas. Ah, this is so shameless, i'm on the mish and still remember the address.
As for this week, we're just gonna say that "we did a lot of walking" which is basically code in the mission for not teaching/finding people to teach, and not getting in the houses to sit down and teach. When somebody asks how the work is going and the response is "we're doing a lot of walking" - either people are not letting you in at all, you need to be a more effective/efficient missionary, planning wasn't done well, or you have a stamp on your forehead that says "danger" don't talk to me. I'm thinking it's a mixture of them all. So we're just gonna arrange a few things, fix what's broken, be a little more patient and go at it again hard this week.
Yuyuniz (pronounced Ju-ju-niece) who was supposed to get baptized this week...well it didn't happen. Her grandmother has cancer and is just finishing her treatments, so her immune system is really low right now and she's not really capable of being out in public or around a lot of people, so we're planning a more private baptism for this Saturday where she and her family and those of the ward that aren't sick can come. It should be really great.
As for Petronila (the granny) and Jose Luis (her son, 28, who has problems with drinking), they didn't come to church this week, so they won't be able to be baptized for some time. We're still struggling with how to put the fire in them to really want to follow Christ and have the confidence that through Him they can change.
expert from letter to president:
As for this week, I don't think I've ever entered in lower numbers. But, just as with anything hard, you learn and grow and become stronger for the times that are to come. I am learning a lot about what it means to be an effective, efficient, "Preach My Gospel" missionary. I'm learning what my strengths are as a missionary and what I have to give to the Lord in this work. I'm learning to deeply love the scriptures and the sacred time I have to converse with my Heavenly Father. I'm learning that you can be busy without getting things done, and you can get things done only with the spirit in this work. Also, I am learning why we are given companions, leaders and support systems in this mission. What a million and one blessings and tools the Lord has given us as missionaries for us to succeed!
Hualqui, although different than Constitucion, has its own miracles and blessings awaiting us, and I know if there is patience, real effort and real dependence on the Lord, He will never fail us. Thank the heavens for times like these so that we can appreciate the miracles and changes when they come.
Well, I love you all more than I'll ever be able to write in an email. I wish I could give you one big hug and tell you all that. You all are amazing and I appreciate your love and support so much. I'm reminded of your incredible examples everyday.
con MUCHO amor,
tu hermana
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