Yes I Am Still On My Mission - NO NO ONE IS GETTING MARRIED !!  

But The Zone Meeting Was About The Importance Of Marrying The Teachings of the Bible and the Book of Mormon

Ashley's Letter Sept 7, 2015

I thought the Zone Leaders Did an Outstanding Job !!!!

So... This week has been interesting.  We didn't get to teach many people this week because we kept getting sick.  Note for the future: Some of the restaurants around here actually make me sick.  This is pretty hard to do because I know I don’t get sick much because of restaurants.  Sister L’s doing well.   Poor girl.  I told her this is probably her own personal "hell week", just like I had around her time of training if I remember correctly.  But we are working through it and everything will be just great!  I am doing a little better.  Besides getting a mild case of food poisoning and heat stroke this week, I'm doing dandy.  ;)  But Sister Alexander is the best.  She is more of the "mission mom" type.  We saw her at a fireside on Sunday and she asked how I was doing, if I needed anything, etc.  I told her I was doing better and that I was just fine.  She is so sweet.  She does it out of genuine care and love, and I adore that.  But, anyway... Here are some highlights of my week.  :)

Experience #1

We went to go see a member called Sister M this week to see how she is doing.  She is doing a little bit better with positive thinking and such, but that isn't so much what made this an experience.  It's good, don't get me wrong, but the thing that stuck out to me was the message that we felt inspired to share with her this week.  We read in Moroni 10:1-20 with her, and discussed spiritual gifts.  We had an amazing discussion with her about what gifts Heavenly Father had given her or gifts that she could develop according to her will as well as His.  She said that this is something that she had honestly never thought about before.  It was really nice to see the light of our message shine through her eyes when she understood what we were saying.  We talked about gifts such as kindness, love, charity, cleanliness, singing, drawing, etc.  but there are hundreds if not thousands more that we never even touched on.  I am learning so much myself from what we are inspired to teach others.  And I am glad I am learning something.  Because Heavenly Father must want me to learn something about Spiritual Gifts/Talents because we had this lesson on Tuesday, I think, then on Sunday we showed up to no gospel principles teacher.  This meant that it went straight to us or the elders, but neither were informed that the teacher wouldn't be there.  So we volunteered to take the lesson, we opened up the book to none other than the lesson on Talents.  So I am doing a little more study and prayer about both of those things, to try to find out what it is that He would have me know or learn about them.  And maybe he is just hinting that I need to use mine more.  I guess we'll find out, won't we?  ;)

Experience #2

We got the privilege to go out to lunch with E again this week.  It was so great.  The food was amazing and delicious as ever, but the thing that really struck my heart this week was his honest and sincere testimony about the Atonement when we asked about it.  We simply brought the topic up and he just took it and rolled with it.  He bore his testimony about how mistake we make in this life are quickly forgiven and forgotten by the Lord if we will truly and honestly seek repentance and forgiveness.  He then tied the Atonement into missionary work.  He mentioned that the Atonement doesn't always apply to what we do wrong, which I knew, but he brought to my understanding something that I had never before realized.  He brought up the fact that the Atonement really goes along with Heavenly Father's individual plan for each and every one of us.  I thought that to be interesting.  Especially in my case.  Knowing that I came home from my mission was kind of a set back all of last summer.  But you know what?  Now I have come to realize that it was something necessary for me to be able to learn from that experience, grow from it, and become better in order to understand what people are going through and help them in any way I can.  And, in a way, I have the Atonement to thank for that.  Heavenly Father has turned my set back into a blessing.  He has blessed me with the ability to truly empathize with people on something that most people don't, and may never understand.  I find that to be humbling and honorable.  I am so thankful that Heavenly Father has that much trust in me.  He truly does give us our trials to make us better and to help us know what we need to do as a result of them.  Which brings me back to a conversation I had with the Alexander's on the way to Mountain Island.  Yes, I got the privilege of being in a car alone with the mission president and his wife.  That is something not every missionary can say.  But they were talking to me about anything and everything and this actually came up.  And we all concluded that some things happen that we don't, and possibly won't understand until our next lives.  However, the things that are brought to our understanding, we can use now to bless the lives of others and really see where they are coming from through the true and full love of Christ that he lets us have for these people, should we choose to use it right.  I am so thankful for the understanding that I have gained.  :)

Experience #3

This week we got the privilege to go and eat with the elder's recent converts and their daughter, J.  When we showed up, we offered help with dinner and she said it was almost done, and that we could just go visit with her daughter.  So we were talking to her about her parents baptism and how she felt about it.  She is 10 years old and the elders have previously had no success in trying to meet with her.  She said she was happier because her parents seemed happier.  We asked her if she would want that happiness for herself and she asked how she could get that.  So we explained that missionaries would come by and talk to her about everything the elders talked to her parents about, and all of the sudden, she said, "Can you two come and teach me?  I don't want the elders."  We were kind of taken back.  We asked why and she replied, "Because your girls and I'm a girl.  You would just understand better."  So we said that we would talk to the elders about it and see what we could do.  I think originally, the elders were kind of hurt, but they realized that if it will bring J into the waters of baptism, it would be better for their family overall.  Because then they can get sealed in the temple, hopefully.  :)  So we are now teaching the new member lessons and the lessons to J.  So wish us luck on that.  It is just going to be hard now because we have to find a third female to go with us every time because the mom is going to school and work, so she won't be home a lot of the time.  But we know that Heavenly Father will help us because we can see and feel of his love for them.  :)  It's amazing.

Experience #4

We had zone meeting this week.  It was so much fun.  Apart from us showing up super early because we allowed too much extra time.  But whatever.  We walked in and I stopped dead in my tracks.  I looked around and saw white streamers, and isle, flower bouquets, a sign in book, lights, etc.  I was like... ummmm... what?  Then the zone leaders came over and said, "Please, please, sign in."  So we did, and I gave Elder P the strangest look that I am hoping conveyed something like, "What in the world are you doing?"  He just laughed and they wouldn't say a thing about it.  There were even little plastic rings on everybody's chairs.  When we got into zone meeting, we had some wonderful trainings on charity and service.  Then it was the zone leaders' turn to train.  I was excited and nervous at the same time.  Elder P got up and said, "Welcome everyone, to the wedding of our dear friends Bibi (Bible) and Moe (Book of Mormon)."  You see, there is a HUGE push for working with the Bible and the Book of Mormon in our teaching.  We have kind of gotten into a trend where we are afraid of using the Bible because we know that the people that are in our mission are very experienced when it comes to the Bible, so we have just kind of veered away from it.  But they put on this whole wedding display with a cake and everything to signify us "tying the two of them together for time and all eternity."  It was hilarious!  I seriously LOVE when zone leaders make the zone meetings fun!  :)  It was one to remember for sure!  And again, I took lots of notes that I will be sure to share with all of you when I return home.  :D

Experience #5

We went to go paint a member's porch yesterday.  She is 84 years old.  She picked a seafoam green color and had us paint the entire porch.  Unfortunately, this resulted in me getting heat stroke because I was careless and didn't have any water the entire day, then she gave me a soda for lunch and had us eat practically the entire pizza while we were sitting there.  She wouldn't let us keep working until all but two pieces were gone.  But before you ask, yes.  I was wearing a hat.  But it was tons of fun.  I may have gotten paint on my shirt and my pants, but I am hoping it washes out.  If not, oh well.  That's what service clothes are for.  But we were just glad that we could implement one of the things we learned at zone meeting.  They are doing a HUGE push for service all of the sudden.  Like, they want us to do somewhere between 1-4 hours of service in ONE DAY!  And that is wonderful in my eyes because that is something that I have pushed for my entire mission.  However, I don't know how that is going to work with the key indicators and standards of excellence.  We are going to try to balance it out though.  So wish us luck and if you have any suggestions, let us know.  One quote I loved regarding service at zone meeting was, "Elders and Sisters.  We were 'Called to Serve', not 'Called to Preach'.  We need to be doing both." -Elder Cravey  I agree completely, but still know that we need to be teaching people and helping them come to the waters of baptism at all opportunities.  So I am praying that Heavenly Father will help us find a balance.

Experience #6

In preparation for the Mission Home Fireside this week, we were thinking of people we wanted to invite from the ward as well as investigators who would benefit from the message.  We had about 22 people lined up to come.  (Which is A LOT for the Mission Home Firesides).  But a lot of them said that they didn't want to, they couldn't, or they cancelled last minute.  We were kind of bummed.  Then all of the sudden, we get a call from the Assistants to the President.  Elder B, (one of my past zone leaders who also served in Mountain Island), was on the phone.  He said, "Good evening, sisters.  How are you doing?"  We said that we were well and that we were just thinking of some people that we could invite to the fireside the next night.  He gave us some ideas, then all of the sudden said, "Hey, have you heard from Sister P lately?"  (His recent convert).  We told him no because she has kind of been avoiding us.  He said that they had gone over there earlier in the day because they are teaching her daughter, B.  He mentioned that we could invite her to the fireside.  We told him we had tried already, but she said that she had some "previous engagements."  He started laughing really hard.  We asked him why, and he said, "Well yeah she has some 'previous engagements.'  She got married today."  We were like... WHAT!?  As far as we knew, she wasn't even dating anyone.  We were so shocked.  And I thought it was so out of the blue and hilarious, that I just had to include it so that you can know of just some of the randomness that I go through on a weekly basis.

Experience #7

We got to go to the mission home fireside on Sunday night.  It was a BEAUTIFUL message about baptism given by President Alexander.  It was also good to see friends like Sister V, Sister B, Sister Z, Elder H, Elder H, Elder C, etc.  But I'll attach some of those pictures.  But I realized that I never include the notes for things like this, so here are the notes for the fireside.  Enjoy!  

Mission Home Fireside - President Alexander:
"The longer I'm here, the more I love the missionaries and the people of North Carolina."  -Sister Alexander
"What is it that makes missionaries earn money, sacrifice, leave everything to do this? - Because of the wonderful feeling we get in our hearts by going to the temple, reading the Book of Mormon, and
partaking of the sacrament." -Sister Alexander

"I am grateful for the priesthood that [President Alexander] holds."  -Sister Alexander

President Alexander:  What should I speak on?  I never fully felt that I should speak about
a certain subject.  Sometimes we can speak to large congregations and we may be speaking for one person.  So it may just be for you, whoever you are.  And the rest of you can listen.  As Sister Alexander spoke of her ancestors, I thought of my own.  They gave up their families, they gave up their homes, and everything to
join the Church.  It is a very, very important decision to investigate the church.  If we remember Jesus' life, and when he came to his cousin John, he said, "Will you baptize me?"
John said, "Look, you should baptize me."  He knew Jesus was the Son of God.
Jesus had to fulfill all righteousness.  He said, "I Will be the example."
Why is baptism so important?
Those of you who have been baptized: your baptism is just as important today as it was the day you were baptized.  Our baptism is for a remission of sins.  It allows us to be forgiven of our sins.
Things we know about baptism:
1. It is an Ordinance

What does that mean? 

It is a requirement.  For what?  Salvation and Exaltation.  An ordinance is a physical act.  It is something that we cannot do by ourselves.  It has to be done under priesthood authority.
How do we know that is true?
Look at the life of Jesus.  He taught us the pattern, he went to someone with authority, humbled himself, and went into the water.  The first ordinances of the gospel are baptism and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Why did Nicodemus come to Jesus by night?
He may have been embarrassed.  He said, "What must I do to inherit the kingdom of heaven?"
"Unless a man be born of water, and of the spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God."
Did Christ teach us the pattern for baptism?
Yes.  He went to John where there was a lot of water.  He needed to be fully immersed.

2. Priesthood  Matthew 28:18-20
What was the last thing that Jesus said to his apostles?  (A man in the congregation said "Amen."
He told his disciples to go forth to all nations and teach the gospel.  That is what missionaries do.  It is a commandment Jesus gave.  3 Nephi:19-21
In the Eastern Hemisphere, he told them to preach the gospel.  In the Western Hemisphere, he gave them the authority to baptize.  "Baptism is important enough to change our lives."
"You can't hold the keys to baptize unless you have been baptized."
-Brother Husky

"It was important enough for someone with no sin, to be baptized, to set that example." -Sister Leach

There is nothing that we can ever say to him that means "You don't understand."  He understands everything.
As Joseph Smith was translating the Book of Mormon, what was the message he was getting?
He needed to be baptized.  He recognized the beauty of the Book of Mormon and the beauty therein,
and he was learning.

His wife was a scribe, part of the time.  Once, he stopped her and said, "You know Emma, I didn't know there was a wall around Jerusalem."  Then he continued...  When Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery prayed about baptism, John appeared to them to confer the priesthood of Aaron to them in order to baptize one another.

Why is that important?
I testify that John the Baptist returned.  I testify that he restored the priesthood.  Then Peter, James, and John restored the higher, Melchizedek Priesthood.  Which the prophets and apostles held.  If you can find out that the Book of Mormon is true, you will find out that Joseph Smith was a prophet and that what he taught was true, and that he was called of God.

3. Symbol   Romans 6:3
What are we learning about the symbolism of baptism?
It symbolizes when we are alive, dead and buried, and resurrection.  It also symbolizes Christ's life, his death, and his resurrection.  It is our witness to ourselves, and to others, that we are willing to take upon us Christ's name.

4. Covenant
It is a promise.
It is a contract.
It is two-way.  Between ourselves and God.
What do we promise?  That we will take upon us Christ's name, always remember him, keep his commandments, bear one another's burdens, mourn with those that mourn, comfort those that stand in need of comfort, take upon us His work!  He promises us that His spirit will always be with us, everlasting
life in the kingdom of heaven, remission of sins. 

Why is that important?  So the Holy Ghost can more fully impact our lives.  "No unclean thing can enter into the kingdom of God." -Elder Ales

If we will have faith in Jesus Christ, repent of our sins, he will change us.  As we are baptized and receive the gift of the whole ghost and endure to the end, every day trying, we will say that it is through him that we will be saved.  3 Nephi 30:1-2

I think that is about all I have for you guys this week.  I am having so much fun here and I am excited to see what this next transfer brings.  I get transfer calls on Saturday, so I will let you all know what happens with that.  I might stay in Mountain Island, I might not.  President has alluded to both.  So we shall see.  But on Monday I will be sure to keep you all informed.  I hope you are all doing well with school, work, friends, church, sports, etc.  But update me!  How are things?

I love you all soooooooooo much!  I will talk to you guys on Monday.  I love you to the pearly gates of the celestial kingdom and back!

Ash :)

Letter from Aug 31, 2015

LOOKING FOR NEW INVESTIGATORS IS HARD !!!

I BUT NOT IMPOSSIBLE !!

Hey you guys!  So this week has been kind of crazy!  We pretty much had to start all over.  There hasn't been super great progress here.  There has been progress, don't get me wrong.  And there is tons of untapped potential here, we just need to find it.  But there were some great bright spots here.  Here are some of them (but they are going to be out of order):

Experience #1

We went to see an investigator named K this week and when they answered the door, we found out she was not home because she was taking her kids to dentist appointments.  Her grandmother was there though.  So we decided to teach her while we were there.  We sat down, said a prayer, and shared some of the "how to begin teaching" principles with her.  We kind of summarized the first points of the Restoration.  We felt prompted to focus more on the apostasy with her so that we could possibly send missionaries up to her in Ohio.  We basically taught to the point that she actually understood the points we were discussing, but she was kind of uncomfortable with the idea of a regular man (a prophet) seeing God face to face.  Sister Leach and I had the exact same idea to look up Exodus 33:11 and explain the story of Moses to her.  She was kind of unhappy with that because that just confused her more than necessary.  So we stopped, explained that we aren't here to degrade any other religions or theories, and that we just want to invite people to come to know the truths that we have come to know over the course of our lives or our conversion.  That changed her whole outlook.  She still wasn't very interested in hearing more of the message, but she did respectfully decline.  It was just interesting to me to see her outlook change almost instantly when we simply said our purpose.  Truly every aspect of this work is inspirational and full of the spirit.

Experience #2

There is a member of the ward from Indonesia who feeds us once to twice a week at the Asian restaurant that he works at.  His name is E.  This week, we went to eat with him on his day off so that we could talk to him about the Gospel.  He only gets to come for the first hour of church.  And even then, he can't stay for the whole hour because of work.  But this week we talked to him about testimonies and families.  He is going through a hard time with his family and we were there to offer strength and comfort.  He is amazing.  It's ridiculously hard to understand him sometimes because he still has his accent.  But even with that, his testimony is so strong and he can communicate with us quite well.  The remarkable thing is that no matter what, we can catch at least the underlying point of what he is trying to say, I believe, because of the spirit.  It's like our own version of the gift of tongues in our little English-speaking mission.

Experience #3

This week, we were also able to teach a Facebook lesson to a less-active woman in the ward who is going through a REALLY tough time.  We shared, "Moments That Matter Most," with her and she said that it inspired her to think more positively and to spend more time with her son.  It was really amazing because I have taught a good amount of Facebook lessons on my mission, but this one in particular, I actually felt the spirit between my companion and I and I knew that the woman that we were teaching could feel the spirit too.  It actually brought to my remembrance the talk that Elder Bednar gave about technology in our day and how to use it most efficiently.  It is amazing how inspired it was to give missionaries iPads on their missions.  We can actually feel the spirit and growth of those we are teaching.  It is remarkable.  She thanked us for the message and the blessing it brought to her life on that day.

Experience #4

We went to go see these former investigators named D and L this week.  They were very interested in hearing more.  They had read the entire Restoration pamphlet and had questions and wanted to learn more about that.  So we cleared up any questions that they had or false things they had heard from neighbors and friends.  Some of them including... Wait for it... "Magic Underwear."  I couldn't believe it.  It was almost as bad as some people at the beginning of my mission asking where my horns and tail were.  I thought these things were made up.  But no.  They are still a thing.  They did mention that they were happy in their church and they weren't sure where their investigation was going to go.  But they do want to hear more.  So hopefully we will be able to share a powerful Plan of Salvation lesson with very powerful commitments.  We are pretty sure that L is "hook, line, and sinker" as Sister Leach says.  But D will probably take some more convincing.  So maybe y'all could pray that both of them will have the desire to explore the church for themselves and receive a witness that it is true.

Experience #5

There was a baptism for the Elder's investigators on Saturday.  We told them that we would show up about an hour or two early to help them set up for the baptism.  And GOOD THING WE DID!!!  We called them about an hour and a half before because the font was not clean and it was not being filled up because they weren't there.  So VERY QUICKLY, we had to clean up what we could of the font and start filling it.  Luckily the water was warm enough and we didn't really have to mess with the water heater.  We had to clean the glass, fill the font, and make sure the drain stayed shut the whole time.  And we were in proselyting clothing because we didn't plan on doing that.  So we took our shoes off and made sure that everything stayed clean because our shoes were super dirty.  The worst/funniest part, (because all I could do to avoid kicking him was laugh), is that one of the Elders came in and said, "Sisters, I just wanted to let you know that you don't really look like a representative of Christ without your shoes on."  And he was being dead serious.  I was so mad.  No "thank you for filling the font so we don't look bad, sisters."  But whatever.  We told the ward mission leader about it and he said, "What authority does he have to do that?  You're missionaries, and he's a missionary.  But it's okay.  Because basically, if you say anything mean about anyone down in the south, all you have to say is, 'bless their heart' and it's justified."  I laughed so hard.  But whatever.  Now I look back and just laugh.  Because I was trained to fill them that way.  So I'm sticking to it. ;)

Experience #6

Last night, we were invited to the Bishop's house for dinner.  No big deal... Right?  But they also invited 4 other families over for a HUGE dinner.  Which also meant a HUGE dinner message.  So we socialized, ate, and had fun, then we shared a message about missionary work.  We sang "I hope they call me on a mission" with everybody, read a cute little story for the kids, then shared our testimonies about missionary work for the adults.  So I guess now is the perfect time to do so.  Soooo.....

I would like to bear my testimony today about missionary work.  First of all, I know that we are all God's children.  Therefore, it is our responsibility to share the knowledge that we have with all those that we come in contact with.  As we do so, the Holy Ghost will assist us in helping others know of the truth that we are saying and sharing.  As they come to know it is true, they will want to change and become better for the benefit of themselves and their families.  I know that their families will benefit and become great assets to the church in these last days.  Because this is the work of the last days and we need to include God in all that we do in order to come out victorious.

It's a very condensed version due to lack of time, but still a testimony.  So I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

It was a great dinner though.  Wonderful food, and wonderful company.  A lady in the ward and her husband recently got back from London and she is really into the culture, the people, and the area as well.  So you can bet we talked about that for a good amount of time. ;)

Glad to hear that everything went well with Bethany moving out and such.  I do remember how crazy it is, but I am glad that she is enjoying so much of it.  That will definitely make the transition easier for her.  Tell her that she need not worry about her classes.  She is brilliant and she will do just fine.  She will get those last minute things that she needs, then she will be all set.  And the Rock Pass will bring her tons of fun!

It stinks that you no longer have a driver.  That has to make things a little busy... To say the least.  ;)  But still glad that y'all are enjoying everything that you are doing.

It's so crazy to me that Allyson and Bethany are in college... Wow.  But thank you for the updates for everyone.  It is so nice to hear that everyone is doing so well.

Training is going really well.  In reality, my trainee doesn't even need training.  She is a convert, yes.  But she takes the lead in most lessons and sometimes I even find myself interrupting, just so I can have a chance to speak.  She is great.  She is where I was when I was at her point.  Kind of done with 12-week and wants to just be a "full missionary."  But she is doing good.  There has been a little "elder vs. sister" drama, but that's okay.  Yes, she has realized that I am crazy.  Like I said, we are basically starting from scratch, but it will be okay.  Lots of potential.  We aren't super upscale, but it is more upscale than my last few areas.  I am doing okay.  A lot better than last week.  But this is the most drama that I have had to deal with on my mission.  So I am trying to kill that off.  But soon.  We are trying to get the ward into genealogy.  But it will be a work in progress.  There is an investigator who likes family history, but doesn't want to hear about the church.  So we are hoping that it will be our foot in the door.

I have to go for right now so we can have some more fun as missionaries.

Love you to the sun, then to the moon, then back.  Because that is farther.  Love you tons!

Ash :)

My New Comp After Transfers !!  Love Her !!

 

Letter from Aug 24 2015

Soooo this week was a complete and total roller coaster.  That is for sure!  So let us just start with last Monday.  Shall we?

Experience #1
So on Monday, we had a zone activity planned.  They told us to be there at about 1:30 in the afternoon and we were planning to have a kickball game and a barbecue.  Well, our member who was coming to get
us came about a half an hour late and needed to go get gas, so we showed up in Greensboro about an hour late.  When we showed up, we went down to the field we were supposed to be on and we saw only elders.  So we asked what was going on and they said that one set of elders had gotten lost and gone to Reidsville.  And the sisters who had come from Greensboro had their member drive them all the way to Reidsville and back down to Greensboro.  So that put us at about 3:30 without food and no real games going on.  So the sisters finally show up and they had all the food.  So the first thing we did was cook it up and eat because we were all starving.  By the time we finished, it was about 4:30 and people had to start leaving to get back to their areas.  So it was pretty much the most anticlimactic zone activity I have ever been to.  But at least I got to visit with people in my zone.  It was fun in that respect.  Plus watching some elders wipe out on a bungee cord.  Lol ;)

Experience #2
We got to go to a member's house for lunch on Tuesday and had a very nice visit with her.  But the really funny/special part of the day was going to see a less-active member with Sister E.  After lunch, she took us in her van down to North Carolina.  We helped her get to the street that we were supposed to turn on, and she got super scared because it was a dirt road.  We got about half way down the road and then it lead into a group of trees.  So the member stopped dead and wouldn't go any further.  She called the less-active and asked where she lived and she told her to keep going further, but the member was convinced that she had gotten lost.  So we went all the way back up the dirt road only to come all the way back down and convince her to go into the trees to find her house.  She finally did and we had a great visit with her where we felt inspired to share "Mountains to Climb."  She told us about some struggles that she has been going through and we told her that it all comes down to faith.  I felt really inspired to say, "Faith is one of the hardest things to gain, and the easiest things to lose."  She was really touched by that because it seemed to apply to her perfectly.  We are now just hoping that she will be able to speak with her family about the things that she would like to do in her life, and see how compliant they will be with her desires.  But it was a really good lesson.

Experience #3
Wednesday we were able to get on Facebook and share a video/teach a lesson on Facebook.  Sister H found this amazing Mormon Message this week called "O Remember Remember."  It is by President Eyring and he talks all about how we need to be recognizing the little blessings in our day to day lives and pick out the message that Heavenly Father wants us to know or learn.  We shared it with her and most of the time she answers by saying something like, "nice" or "good."  But she responded this time by saying, "Wow.  That one was powerful!"  We finally got through to her!  I got her to come to church twice already and now she is actually listening to and internalizing that the missionaries teach her?  It's amazing how Heavenly Father really helps us in this work, soften the hearts of his children so that they know exactly what it is that they are supposed to be doing.  It was really special.  I thought I was going to fall out of my chair when she didn't respond with a one-word answer.

Experience #4
Also on Wednesday, we had to move out of our house.  All day long.  It was so hard.  Sister T came over that morning to help us load all of our suitcases, food, and boxes into her car and ours and head over there.  We felt awful though because our front steps were so steep and they had to move the couch, beds, dressers, etc up them.  A member even came to get us on Thursday this week and when we opened the front door she said, "Sisters.  You didn't tell me you had to be a mountain goat to get to your front steps."  But we just had enough time by the time everything was in the apartment to wash my hair, because it was so humid and I was working so hard that my hair was practically sweat soaked, and head for coordination meeting at the church.  I will send some pictures next week if I can.  But that is something that took up a majority of our week.  No doubt.

Experience #5
On Thursday, we walked from our new apartment down to memorial drove and back up.  Probably around 2 miles if I had to guess.  But we figured that since we drive down there all the time and see tons of people, that it would be a great finding technique.  But unfortunately, we chose one of the hottest days of the week to go street contacting and there was barely anyone outside.  And if there was anyone, then they just wanted to walk right by us without a second thought.  So we walked back and went to do Facebook and some other contacting before we had to go back for Sister M to pick us up for dinner.  Then we went out with her after dinner to go see someone that the elders had been trying to contact to see if we would have any better.  We did contact her, but she was busy at the moment.  Then we looked at our watches and freaked out a little bit because we realized that we were going to have about half an hour to get our car cleaned, and get back to plan for the next day.  So we asked if Sister M if she would take us home so that we could get the car and get it washed.  We finished at about 8:58 and we had just missed a call from President Alexander.  He was just saying that he would love to meet with us after zone conference the next day.

Experience #6
Which leads me to my next experience.  We had zone conference on Friday.  The two trainings that stood out most to me were President Alexander's training about the Book of Mormon and the Bible.  He gave us ways to use both of them together.  He pointed out that since we are serving in the Bible Belt, this mission has developed a fear of using the Bible in our teaching.  And he isn't wrong.  It can be scary when you come to those people who have grown up eating, drinking, sleeping, and living the Bible.  But his training sunk deep into our hearts and I am going to try harder to use both of them instead of just the Book of Mormon.  In Danville, two members in the last week have told us that the Bible is the "what" and the Book of Mormon is the "how."  I thought that was inspirational.  Sister Alexander trained on Hymns and Primary Songs and the power that they have to influence our lives and our teaching.  She told us to study the hymnal.  That was interesting to me because I had never really heard of anyone doing that.  But she showed us hers and how it is highlighted, marked, and cross-referenced.  It was truly enlightening.  Then President and Sister Alexander sang us a primary song and I could just feel the love that they have for each of us so strongly.  I will have to tell you more about it another time.  But after the meeting, President Alexander met with me first and asked me a few questions and asked if he could have us stay for another half an hour or so.  Then he wanted to talk to Sister H.  Then he asked us to take a seat and wait for him to show us something.  Then he pulled the assistants into the room.  I knew exactly what he was going to do.  There was going to be an emergency transfer in the middle of the transfer.  He pulled me back in and informed me that I would be transferred from Danville on Saturday.  That gave me one night to pack and get down to Greensboro the next day.  I asked why and he said that there were some struggling sisters in the Charlotte area and that I would be returning to the Gastonia stake to finish training Sister L.  So the rest of that day was packing, then we woke up and traveled to meet the Alexander's with the Sister Training Leaders.

So yes - I am training.  And she is great!  She is 20 years old, she is from Wasilla, Alaska, has gone to BYU-Idaho for two years before her mission, and has been out for about two and a half months.  We get along splendidly.  She is a convert to the church and has such a strong testimony.  She does talk a lot, which has actually been better for me than the last couple of companions.  Because I talk a lot.  And instead of horrible silences in the car, we always have something, no matter how random, to talk about.

My new area is in the Mountain Island Ward.  That means I am officially in Charlotte.  Our area does have some things to do, thank you mom for sending those to me, but we don't have downtown or anything with Panthers Stadium or anything.  But we now have some ideas of fun things to do - thanks mom.  If you find any more things that we could possibly do, please let us know.  But you're right.  I  did not expect your prayers to find investigators to result in a new area with a new companion, but I am looking forward to what we can accomplish here.  We have reset our goal as a companionship and are looking forward to it!  Thinking, praying, and focusing on it every minute of the day!  It WILL happen!  Whether this area, or others, or all!  (Typically, I prefer all.  But whatever the Lord has in store is what shall be done).

Glad to hear that dad is still busy.  As long as he doesn't overwork himself.  But he won't.  He's smart and knows what he needs to do.  I can't believe Bethany put off packing till now.  I would die!  It took me weeks to get everything ready.  It's nice that she is so close though.  I didn't have that luxury to start off with.  ;)

Sister L thought it was cool that you are going on a cruise to Alaska.  Because she is from Wasilla, Alaska and is excited to see how you like it.  So all of you will for sure have to let me know.  It will be a treat for you though.  And think about it.  You're missing events, but spending time with your parents.  I'm missing events, but spending time with the Lord and my brothers and sisters.  It's all for a good cause.  ;) 

Kind of sad to hear that Emily switched to the other school to be honest.  I was really hoping she would get into it at Diamond Fork with the drama or arts programs there.  It is a really good school and I was so happy that one of my little sisters wanted to go there.  But like you said, her choice.  I just hope that she is happy wherever she ends up going.  But you know, you know what is best as well.  Just work together and include the Lord, and everything will work out.  Glad to hear that Cait is doing so well, also.  How is she liking soccer?  Is school and everything working out.  I knew that you wouldn't completely cut out genealogy.  You just have so much passion for it!  And that is a good thing.  So keep doing it, with moderation enough to accomplish other things as well.  I am excited to hear how camp stuff is working out.  Maybe I can even come and help you out next summer at camp.  Depending on what I end up doing with work and school and stuff.  I am so glad that you are still enjoying working in the temple.  I am missing it so much.  I can't wait to go with you when you get home.  And it's good to stay busy. Keeps your heart going and stuff... ;)

It's so crazy to hear what everyone in the family has been up to.  I had no idea that Kevin even wanted to become a cop.  That's great! Thank you so much for the updates on everyone.  They are much appreciated and I love every time I get to hear new things.  So if you can, keep 'em coming.  ;)

The standards night sounded great.  It almost sounded similar to a training that Sister Craven gave about our testimonies and the Book of Mormon.  I found it interesting that he said, "Doubt your doubts, before you doubt your testimony."  Because Sister L has been quoting President Uchtdorf's quote, "Doubt your doubts, before you doubt your faith" for the past few days.  I just love the whole concept behind that.  Glad you had such an edifying experience come out of it.

Basically, so far I am trying to teach her that you can set big goals like wanting to baptize ten people in an area WITHOUT stressing out about it.  I told her, "We may not even know them yet.  But Heavenly Father will lead them to us or us to them."  Hopefully that goal wasn't too overwhelming.  But as long as we are doing what we are supposed to and involving the Lord, everything will work out according to His will.  I know that for sure!  I just want to do what my trainer did for me.  Which was, help her grow without embarrassment.  Meaning, encourage her and gently offer instruction and correction when needed.  But she is great.  There are just a few things she can relax about.  But that comes with time as well.  :)  I did tell her that there is a possibility she will train on her mission.  She says she doesn't want to, but I know that she would be a great trainer if that is what Heavenly Father needed her to do.  She hasn't been feeling well because of a headache the past couple of days and she is just getting over pneumonia.  So hopefully all the stress will go away so she can start feeling better.

We are focusing a lot on expanding our vision and the vision of the other missionaries.  Because right now, it isn't looking like we are going to hit the goal for baptisms as a mission this year.  We are still like 300 behind or something.  So something needs to change in how we are viewing our potential.  Hopefully I get the chance to change that.

Thank you for the words of encouragement.  They really help.  And if you find fun things like you sent me last week, this week, send them my way.  I loved them!  I will continue to do the best that I personally can with the help of my Savior and I know that we will start and continue to see great things come about in this area.  I sure got the Lord's message to me this week.  And now I am going to act on it.

I am going to play hard and work hard!  That's for sure!  
I love you all soooooo much!  I love you to the ends of Heaven and back!  <3

Ash :)

 

Letter from Aug 17th 2015

Hey you guys.  How are you doing?  Here's how I am!

 

Experience #1

We went to the C's this week to teach a member lesson.  Last minute they invited us to dinner as well.  It's funny how Sister C makes even the simplest things into an eloquent meal.  We just had sandwiches, grapes, chips, ex.  But there were different kinds of meet, cheese, lettuce, bread, and anything else you can think of to make a sandwich.  Then, afterwards, they were kind enough to volunteer to take us apartment hunting downtown because we found out that we are having a mold problem in the basement of the house we are currently living in.  But first, we wanted to share with them a lesson about Christ like Attributes.  We showed the Mormon Message called "Christ like Attributes," and we all talked about what insight we gained from that.  Then we read 3 Nephi 21-27, 33 with them.  Sister C said the first verse,

"21 Verily, verily, I say unto you, this is my gospel; and ye know the things that ye must do in my church; for the works which ye have seen me do that shall ye also do; for that which ye have seen me do even that shall ye do;"

was the one that stuck out to her most.  She said that it really hit her hard because she had never thought about how we really do know exactly what we are supposed to be doing, because we have either grown up in the church, or been taught all the things that we need to do.  But more than that, we do the things that we do because the Savior did them first.  Everything we strive to accomplish is because of the example that Christ set for us.  I know this to be true as well.  We saw Christ heal.  With enough faith, and knowing it is the will of our father in heaven, He uses us as his instruments to still accomplish these kinds of miracles.  We saw his kindness.  The first and great commandment He has given us is to love thy neighbor as thyself.  He was kind and charitable to ALL people.  Regardless of race, age, gender, or situation.  He showed them kindness and love.  And we should all strive to do the same.  Because it is my personal belief that in the Kingdom of our Father, there will be no unkindness, no grudge-holding, and no hostility.  We saw Christ sacrifice.  Not only did Christ sacrifice his time, his efforts, and everything else for us.  But he sacrificed his own life.  He had singleness of purpose, heart, and mind.  Everything he did was in regard to the Father or us.  And we need to remember that.  How could we not want to give our all to the one person who granted us everlasting life?  It was such an eye opener for me.  The simple things we think about and study go so much more in-depth when we combine them with our testimonies and strive to increase them.  :)

 

Experience #2

So.... House hunting is hard.  Especially when people are not specific.  We called the mission office after we were informed that we had mold (or the beginnings of mold) in our basement.  They told us that we had about 1 WEEK to find a new apartment, get a lease going, and move out and into the new one.  Talk about impossible.  But what am I saying?  Everything is possible when you include our Heavenly Father.  We were praying night and day that we would be able to make this happen.  The lofts the C wanted us to look at were majorly expensive.  They were okay.  But they weren't the best things I have ever seen.  I mean, they had nice appliances, but the layout itself isn't anything impressive.  Plus, you'll NEVER guess how much they cost per month in rent.  $1225!!!!!  Isn't that insane?!  We informed the mission office, and I could've sworn they choked on the price.  We were pretty sure they weren't going to go for it, but the cheaper and smaller apartments weren't available until September 1st.  Luckily, a member of the ward called us the next morning and said that she had heard we were looking for apartments.  She took it upon herself to call her old landlord and see if he had anything available.  He said he did, and he only goes by word of mouth.  So we went over to look at the properties.  The one we wanted was so cute and pretty big!  We asked him how much it was going to be per month with utilities, and he said it was going to be $595!!!!  A steal compared to the other place and for about the same amenities and inclusions.  Plus, he said he could start the lease and have us move in on Wednesday, hopefully, this week.  Plus, he said he is a furniture collector, and anything that we didn't have, he would lend to us, no cost.  That is a whole lot of pluses.  When we told the mission office about it, they laughed in unbelief and said they would love us to come work in the office for them because of our efficiency.  Nice little pat on the back.  :)

 

Experience #3

This week we were able to teach our investigator, R the Law of Chastity.  It was probably the most awkward Law of Chastity lesson I have taught on my mission.  Only because we were pretty sure that previous to that, she had told us that up to this point in her life, she had participated in some of those things.  Knowing this, made it way more awkward to bring up.  Sister H just started laughing.  It was so funny.  She just  laughed along with us until she knew why we were laughing.  Then she didn't think it was that funny.  That feeling of awkwardness definitely did not leave the entire time we were there.  At first, she even said that this is something that she doesn't know if she could do.  We explained how the atonement and our father in heaven are there to help us along the way.  By the end of the lesson, she did say that she would try her best, but that it would be hard.  We told her that a lot of the commandments that Heavenly Father gives us are hard, but so worth it in the long run.  Keeping in mind that they do come straight from our Heavenly Father, we remember that He knows all that has happened and will ever happen.  So He knows what is best for us and most beneficial for our lives.  She agreed.  But it was soooo weird.  I have never felt that uncomfortable about that lesson.  I guess it doesn't help that she is pretty close to our age as well.  So we understand exactly what her concerns or points of view are.  :|

 

Experience #4

We got our own little taste of Christ like service and charity this week as well.  There is a returning member that we go see about once a week.  She just got a new apartment, (the one we helped her move into last week), so we met there.  We told her we want to try to work with her through the things necessary to improve so that she can go to the temple for the first time.  She has been baptized for 3-5 years and has never been.  So we want to help her get there.  We went over the baptismal interview questions with her, which are similar to the temple interview questions, to see what she is doing well and what we can help her with.  Once we found the concerns or things she wants to work on, we started talking to her about how she could accomplish those things. 

 

Experience #5

This week, we got a call from a member of the ward.  She was wondering if we could come to her daughters business, a greenhouse, to help clean it up because she was closing shop.  We figured, if it wasn't too far away, it would be fine.  We googled where it was, and it was only about 4.3 miles away.  We got on board and said that we would help.  But then we put the map on street view to see what it looked like.  This is no ordinary greenhouse.  Take the one by grandma Deinstadt's and multiply that by like 60 height wise and weight wise.  Sister H got the job of sweeping the entire warehouse, Elder E was weed whacking the whole time, and I got put on moving fixtures and furniture with the Elder C and some of the members.  My strength comes in handy sometimes.  We were there for about 2 1/2 hours among the spiders, dirt, and mice and we were wrecked when we came home.  We were filthy dirty.  But it was so nice being able to render so much service to the member.  At first, it was us, the high priest group leader, a member of the bishopric, and the elders that showed up.  But after about an hour, a lot of ward members showed up.  And it ended up being really fun!  They had donuts and water as well.  Luckily, because we were starving.  When we got home to shower, Sister H wanted me to give her a haircut.  She said to cut it straight across and only take an inch off.  But me being me, I had to cut it to where it was healthy.  So it ended up being about two inches.  But I have to give myself a little credit.  It looks pretty good.  :)

 

Experience #6

We went over to a family in the ward this week to share a message with them.  They just got sealed in the temple a few weeks ago.  So we wanted to follow up with them and see how everything went.  I told them to pay attention to the mirror in the sealing room especially a couple of days before they went.  They said that they kept an eye out for it, not that you could miss it, and that was the thing that really made all of them cry.  I was so happy to hear that they had such a special experience.  We shared one of the new Mormon Messages with their family, "Bearing our Burdens with Hope."  The mother started crying and they talked about how they needed to pay attention to the struggles they are having, and count them as blessings.  It reminded me of something I have learned on my mission.  Heavenly Father is always willing to help us, if we will simply take the initiative to ask him for help.  I have had so many experiences on my mission that have taught me that I really can't do everything on my own.  Something I definitely cherish.

 

Experience #7

We had zone activity today.  Poor things don't know how to plan one.  Now it all makes sense why we didn't have one the past two transfers.  They didn't tell us what we were going to be doing or where it was going to be until late last night.  Then we had to scramble to get a ride, and we ended up paying him $10 in gas money each so we could even get there.  We showed up an hour late because of traffic only to find out that three sets of missionaries went to the wrong address, in a different city!  But it was still fun.  There aren't many pictures because all we did was play signs and watch some elders walk on a tightrope.  Then two hours later, the sister training leaders finally showed up with the food so we could all eat.  But it was still fun to socialize with people.

 

As you can tell, we have been working a lot with members this week because we are struggling to find people to teach.  But it has been a really good week.

 

I did get your email about the mold in the apartment.  And I thought it was humorous that you signed it "O ye of little faith."  Because that is what the first experience is all about.

 

It sounds like you had a ton of fun at Shaver Lake this time.  We will have to go in another couple of years so Beth and I can come too.  All the water sports sounded like tons and tons of fun!

 

I didn't know you were going to go to Bishop.  That sounds like fun.  How did you run into your old babysitter?  That is so fun!

 

I can't believe Beth is going to college already.  That's nuts that we are basically running the same course at this point.

 

I did get the package that she sent with the garments, letter, and treats. 

 

I am soooo glad Parker is doing well and so excited to find out that he is a zone leader there!  He leaves pretty soon for Kentucky, doesn't he?

 

The work is going pretty well.  Like I said, lots of member work.  But if you guys could pray that we find more people to teach, I would really appreciate it.  We are going to have to move the baptism on the 29th because she didn't come to church yesterday and she isn't sure she is still fully committed because of some of the "rules" we have to follow.  But we are holding out hope for the 6th.  My companion is good.  She is just so funny sometimes.  We went to a park for a barbecue and some games for P-Day today.  I can't believe it is 103 degrees!  That's insane!  You are taking the heat and I am taking the humidity.

 

No worries.  I got the advice for the genealogy stuff.  So thank you for that.

 

I have to go pretty soon.  But I will try to email more pictures next week.  I'll try to get some off in the next few minutes if possible, but I will see.

 

Love you to the ends of the Milky Way and back!

 

Ash :)