Emily had me send a package of hot jerky to Elder Shrestha. This is a thank you note we got from him.
Dear Smiths,
Thank you so much for the package. I met Sister Smith and told her that you sent me the jerky. She is so awesome. I served around her quite a bit. She is a great missionary. Thank you for your kindness and love. I really appreciate it.I hope and pray for you to have great days ahead. Sister Smith is doing Lord's work and she is doing a good job. I love her and am grateful for her love and great friendship. Much love, Elder Shrestha.
Friday, August 22, 2014
got lucky this week with two emails! August 18, 2014
Namaste! (that is Nepali)
I have learned how to say hello in tons of new languages on my mission! I love other cultures now!
that is so funny that you always go to baseball games, my companion always talks about the Chuckers (unsure of spelling there). It is hard not to judge sometimes, but it truly is true that you never know what someone's life is like. Repentance is great!
haha! That is so funny, Lindsey always thinks she does not have a lot to say but she always does have lots to say! her letters are always long too! hahah! that is so funny that she took the whole time.
I will reply to your question in a letter, we have to get going because we have a zone p-day today, and we are already late:)
My companion and I just have different definitions of what obedience is so we are working on merging our obedience levels/definitions and so it is a challenge, but each companionship is. If you are with someone literally 24/7 there are bound to be conflicts. Then as soon as you get used to one companion. . . Transfers!
I really am doing well, there are tons of miracles happening here! I love you!
With Love,
Sister Smith
On Sun, Aug 17, 2014 , Christy wrote:
I am always looking for ways to say hi or to start out new letters. I am in Idaho Falls. It was the only chance I had to get Morgan and Cassidy up here before school starts. Grandpa is busy at the farm, but hopefully he can take Tuesday off to go to a ball game. Church today was really good and it have me so many good things to think about. They must have all gone to my subliminal memory because we were talking after church and nobody could remember what was said during sacrament. It is still driving me crazy. Cassidy was telling me her friend Josie doesn't think I like her. I was probably feeling bad and trying to figure out what I could do to change. She is in drill with Cassidy and every once in a while when I go to pick Cass up from drill, Josie asks if she can come because her parents are out of town. It bugs me that her parents do that. I ask her what she will do if I say no. She is one who never has money to buy stuff when we go anywhere so people end up paying for her. I had some serious repentance in my heart today. I don't want Josie to feel that from me anymore. Wake up call. I don't really know what her home life is like and I can't judge. She is not a member and I need to be a better person toward her.
I don't know if Lindsey told you she had a talk in sacrament meeting last week. There was a youth speaker, musical number then Linds and Ty were to talk. Lindsey totally took the whole time and left Ty with nothing. It was so funny. At noon she looked at the clock and said oh look Ty I almost took all the time, then she just kept going. Bishop told us all for a continuation of the talk, come back next week and Ty will speak. Only they went to Logan to hear one of Ty's boys at his mission farewell talk. Maybe next week.
Our Sunday school lesson was about the difference between knowledge and wisdom. It referenced Proverbs 3:5-7. (My scripture mastery) it then asked the question: What experiences have taught you to trust The Lord? So that is my question for you this week.
Everyone keeps asking me about your new companion. Why are things so stressful? Is she not positive or what's going on?
Take care of yourself. I love you and hope you are doing better.
Yeh eh nah pa doh. Mommy ((((((( )))))))
I have learned how to say hello in tons of new languages on my mission! I love other cultures now!
that is so funny that you always go to baseball games, my companion always talks about the Chuckers (unsure of spelling there). It is hard not to judge sometimes, but it truly is true that you never know what someone's life is like. Repentance is great!
haha! That is so funny, Lindsey always thinks she does not have a lot to say but she always does have lots to say! her letters are always long too! hahah! that is so funny that she took the whole time.
I will reply to your question in a letter, we have to get going because we have a zone p-day today, and we are already late:)
My companion and I just have different definitions of what obedience is so we are working on merging our obedience levels/definitions and so it is a challenge, but each companionship is. If you are with someone literally 24/7 there are bound to be conflicts. Then as soon as you get used to one companion. . . Transfers!
I really am doing well, there are tons of miracles happening here! I love you!
With Love,
Sister Smith
On Sun, Aug 17, 2014 , Christy wrote:
I am always looking for ways to say hi or to start out new letters. I am in Idaho Falls. It was the only chance I had to get Morgan and Cassidy up here before school starts. Grandpa is busy at the farm, but hopefully he can take Tuesday off to go to a ball game. Church today was really good and it have me so many good things to think about. They must have all gone to my subliminal memory because we were talking after church and nobody could remember what was said during sacrament. It is still driving me crazy. Cassidy was telling me her friend Josie doesn't think I like her. I was probably feeling bad and trying to figure out what I could do to change. She is in drill with Cassidy and every once in a while when I go to pick Cass up from drill, Josie asks if she can come because her parents are out of town. It bugs me that her parents do that. I ask her what she will do if I say no. She is one who never has money to buy stuff when we go anywhere so people end up paying for her. I had some serious repentance in my heart today. I don't want Josie to feel that from me anymore. Wake up call. I don't really know what her home life is like and I can't judge. She is not a member and I need to be a better person toward her.
I don't know if Lindsey told you she had a talk in sacrament meeting last week. There was a youth speaker, musical number then Linds and Ty were to talk. Lindsey totally took the whole time and left Ty with nothing. It was so funny. At noon she looked at the clock and said oh look Ty I almost took all the time, then she just kept going. Bishop told us all for a continuation of the talk, come back next week and Ty will speak. Only they went to Logan to hear one of Ty's boys at his mission farewell talk. Maybe next week.
Our Sunday school lesson was about the difference between knowledge and wisdom. It referenced Proverbs 3:5-7. (My scripture mastery) it then asked the question: What experiences have taught you to trust The Lord? So that is my question for you this week.
Everyone keeps asking me about your new companion. Why are things so stressful? Is she not positive or what's going on?
Take care of yourself. I love you and hope you are doing better.
Yeh eh nah pa doh. Mommy ((((((( )))))))
Email August 18, 2014 I miss my brother!
I will not send family mail to her again, I will just send it to our house.
I am glad you had some fun parties, that is so funny that Cooper hates dirty hands, and Porter does not mind. That is a good reflection of their parents I think. :)
Morgan is such a good kid, I really do love him so much. I miss my brother!!! There is an Elder here in my ward who is brand new on his mission, and he reminds me a lot of Morgan, it is kind of funny. he always is talking about transmissions, and a Cummins engine, and he will just talk a lot, and ask any question that is on his mind, not scared to ask anyone anything:) He is going to be a good missionary, so will Morgan:)
You did teach all of us how to be a hard worker. That is something I noticed, I just assumed that people knew how to work because it was natural for me but nope! there are a lot of people who just decide to not work because they can talk to their friends instead, weird.
With Love,
Sister Smith
On Tue, Aug 12, 2014 at 11:02 PM, Christy Smith <tasmith64@hotmail.com> wrote:
So funny thing I just found out at Porter's birthday party Saturday that Jenn had a letter you sent to the family to her box. I'm guessing she had it for a week because it did have the new address in it you sent me. Please don't send family mail to her again. I have not been very happy that we didn't get mail that week. I just couldn't imagine because you said you had some good stuff to tell us. Or I will have to have her check her mail on friday/saturday and then tell me we get mail. I understand spreading the love, but I need to know when we get letters.
We had some fun parties for the boys. Cooper was so happy with a new football and his cupcakes. Although he didn't like the frosting on his fingers. Such a funny kid. He doesn't like to have dirty hands. Porter on the other hand doesn't care at all. He loves to play in the dirt and mud. Cooper loves to play in it too, but just not have dirty hands.
Fair week was fun. We managed fine with the ice. Morgan pretty much did it on his own. I'm not sure what people thought about this kid coming down to sell ice. He did ok. About 450.00 all week. He learned some good lessons. Like you have to beat igloo at it time wise and show up in the morning. There were some people he was afraid to talk to, some new vendors. I didn't know he was afraid to talk to anyone. Figured he was like dad and grandpa. Not too bad for a first year of being on his own. I would go help with receipts when he was busy but that wasn't often. People were so kind and anytime they saw me with him just gave constant praise about what a good kid he is. Kind and considerate. Hard worker. They were very impressed by him. Makes me feel good. Not many 16 year olds like Morgan. Dad has taught him well.
Went to the lake with the four wheelers for family home evening. Isn't Cooper so cute?!
I am glad you had some fun parties, that is so funny that Cooper hates dirty hands, and Porter does not mind. That is a good reflection of their parents I think. :)
Morgan is such a good kid, I really do love him so much. I miss my brother!!! There is an Elder here in my ward who is brand new on his mission, and he reminds me a lot of Morgan, it is kind of funny. he always is talking about transmissions, and a Cummins engine, and he will just talk a lot, and ask any question that is on his mind, not scared to ask anyone anything:) He is going to be a good missionary, so will Morgan:)
You did teach all of us how to be a hard worker. That is something I noticed, I just assumed that people knew how to work because it was natural for me but nope! there are a lot of people who just decide to not work because they can talk to their friends instead, weird.
With Love,
Sister Smith
On Tue, Aug 12, 2014 at 11:02 PM, Christy Smith <tasmith64@hotmail.com> wrote:
So funny thing I just found out at Porter's birthday party Saturday that Jenn had a letter you sent to the family to her box. I'm guessing she had it for a week because it did have the new address in it you sent me. Please don't send family mail to her again. I have not been very happy that we didn't get mail that week. I just couldn't imagine because you said you had some good stuff to tell us. Or I will have to have her check her mail on friday/saturday and then tell me we get mail. I understand spreading the love, but I need to know when we get letters.
We had some fun parties for the boys. Cooper was so happy with a new football and his cupcakes. Although he didn't like the frosting on his fingers. Such a funny kid. He doesn't like to have dirty hands. Porter on the other hand doesn't care at all. He loves to play in the dirt and mud. Cooper loves to play in it too, but just not have dirty hands.
Fair week was fun. We managed fine with the ice. Morgan pretty much did it on his own. I'm not sure what people thought about this kid coming down to sell ice. He did ok. About 450.00 all week. He learned some good lessons. Like you have to beat igloo at it time wise and show up in the morning. There were some people he was afraid to talk to, some new vendors. I didn't know he was afraid to talk to anyone. Figured he was like dad and grandpa. Not too bad for a first year of being on his own. I would go help with receipts when he was busy but that wasn't often. People were so kind and anytime they saw me with him just gave constant praise about what a good kid he is. Kind and considerate. Hard worker. They were very impressed by him. Makes me feel good. Not many 16 year olds like Morgan. Dad has taught him well.
Went to the lake with the four wheelers for family home evening. Isn't Cooper so cute?!
Monday, August 18, 2014
Letter to Mom Aug. 18, 2014 Learning to trust the Lord
Morgan got his wisdom tooth pulled? Well, one less thing to do before his mission!
Biking is going well. I actually have not been sore at all. The first day Sister Fullwood was VERY sore, but I am doing good! I am doing good on clothes now, my wardrobe just doubled because I can fit into my companion's clothes. I would never say no to skirts you send me, but I should be good. If you do send me one, I'd ask for one that will look good with a black shirt that needs tucked in. (Funny thing is I just sent her a peach colored one with a black belt, should work perfectly)
You should definitely share your testimony of patriarchal blessings with Morgan and Cassidy. That would be good for them.
I have been pondering a lot about how to help people change their attitudes. It is a challenge . . . especially to do it in a kind and loving way.
No word from either of the people we taught at the bus stop, but that is ok it planted a seed! John is so cool! He actually keeps his appointments and he loves all of the members he has met. Our ward is pretty busy. A lot of the people work, so they don't have tons of time to help us out.
I just bought scrapbook paper and have lots of stamps. I am running low on envelopes. I would love if you would send your recipe for lasagna in a crock pot and some canned chicken. We get fed about once a week in this ward, so not as awesome as Maple Grove.
You asked me about what experiences have taught me to trust the Lord. There have been many different experiences. A few from my mission that stand out are all of the guidance I received at the beginning of my mission like about where to go and what to do. Then having hard companionships. Those kind of companionships teach me to trust in the Lord and know that this is where I need to be. Learning to speak Karen was the #1 way of me learning to trust the Lord. When I heard about it I was excited but also very scared. So when I had thought about it for a while, I decided to pray about if it was right and I got a very clear answer that that is where I needed to be. It was so hard to learn and to understand, I was so scared, but I learned a lot of how to trust in the Lord through that. Knowing that the Lord would put me where he needed me. There have been lots of experiences that have helped me learn to trust the Lord, and I still need lots of work on it, but I'm getting better.
With love, Sister Smith
Biking is going well. I actually have not been sore at all. The first day Sister Fullwood was VERY sore, but I am doing good! I am doing good on clothes now, my wardrobe just doubled because I can fit into my companion's clothes. I would never say no to skirts you send me, but I should be good. If you do send me one, I'd ask for one that will look good with a black shirt that needs tucked in. (Funny thing is I just sent her a peach colored one with a black belt, should work perfectly)
You should definitely share your testimony of patriarchal blessings with Morgan and Cassidy. That would be good for them.
I have been pondering a lot about how to help people change their attitudes. It is a challenge . . . especially to do it in a kind and loving way.
No word from either of the people we taught at the bus stop, but that is ok it planted a seed! John is so cool! He actually keeps his appointments and he loves all of the members he has met. Our ward is pretty busy. A lot of the people work, so they don't have tons of time to help us out.
I just bought scrapbook paper and have lots of stamps. I am running low on envelopes. I would love if you would send your recipe for lasagna in a crock pot and some canned chicken. We get fed about once a week in this ward, so not as awesome as Maple Grove.
You asked me about what experiences have taught me to trust the Lord. There have been many different experiences. A few from my mission that stand out are all of the guidance I received at the beginning of my mission like about where to go and what to do. Then having hard companionships. Those kind of companionships teach me to trust in the Lord and know that this is where I need to be. Learning to speak Karen was the #1 way of me learning to trust the Lord. When I heard about it I was excited but also very scared. So when I had thought about it for a while, I decided to pray about if it was right and I got a very clear answer that that is where I needed to be. It was so hard to learn and to understand, I was so scared, but I learned a lot of how to trust in the Lord through that. Knowing that the Lord would put me where he needed me. There have been lots of experiences that have helped me learn to trust the Lord, and I still need lots of work on it, but I'm getting better.
With love, Sister Smith
Friday, August 15, 2014
lost letter
Emily sent me a letter on a piece of paper folded up like an envelope. I guess the postal service thought it wasn't a good enough size, so they returned it to her. It took a while to get to me, but it made it in a bigger envelope with another letter.
Momma!
So you got a new car? Did you get a brand new red Denali? I loved the Denali. I am glad we got another one. I loved to bracelet and the past tense. The food you sent me saved my life. My new apartment had no food so I was glad I brought food to get me through the week until we could go shopping. I don't have much to say this week.
How are your scripture masteries going? I am to D&C 76:22-24 and I've done the first 4 Book of Mormon ones! Love ya, Sister Smith p.s. Do you study Preach My Gospel?
Letter dated 8-11-14
I am still in a temple area. I am only 15 minutes away from the mission home (as long as it is not rush hour)
It is so cool that you got 12 names reserved! You should send me one to do an endowment for. I can go in October. I can't believe Alex comes home in October! Life goes by so fast. I hope he and Emma get to see each other before he leaves, that would be cool for them. Did you get a letter from the mission saying that i'm coming home in December? or are you just saying that because that's when I hit 18 months? I'm done with 27 scripture masteries! You will definitely meet Sister Morris. Maple Grove will be the ward I go visit most from my mission. She took me shopping for some new skirts. I got three new skirts and three new shirts for $20.00. It was sweet! I don't leave all my food behind, but i do leave most of it behind when i get transferred. I have a lot of stuff to move and I don't have room for food. Sister Fullwood has been in our area for 2 transfers already. I do love her, it is just a challenge. She is negative and gossipie and I am constantly fighting against it. It seems like anyway. She is also one of those people who as soon as she finds something that bothers you, she will do it constantly just to bug you! Anywho I love you!
Momma!
So you got a new car? Did you get a brand new red Denali? I loved the Denali. I am glad we got another one. I loved to bracelet and the past tense. The food you sent me saved my life. My new apartment had no food so I was glad I brought food to get me through the week until we could go shopping. I don't have much to say this week.
How are your scripture masteries going? I am to D&C 76:22-24 and I've done the first 4 Book of Mormon ones! Love ya, Sister Smith p.s. Do you study Preach My Gospel?
Letter dated 8-11-14
I am still in a temple area. I am only 15 minutes away from the mission home (as long as it is not rush hour)
It is so cool that you got 12 names reserved! You should send me one to do an endowment for. I can go in October. I can't believe Alex comes home in October! Life goes by so fast. I hope he and Emma get to see each other before he leaves, that would be cool for them. Did you get a letter from the mission saying that i'm coming home in December? or are you just saying that because that's when I hit 18 months? I'm done with 27 scripture masteries! You will definitely meet Sister Morris. Maple Grove will be the ward I go visit most from my mission. She took me shopping for some new skirts. I got three new skirts and three new shirts for $20.00. It was sweet! I don't leave all my food behind, but i do leave most of it behind when i get transferred. I have a lot of stuff to move and I don't have room for food. Sister Fullwood has been in our area for 2 transfers already. I do love her, it is just a challenge. She is negative and gossipie and I am constantly fighting against it. It seems like anyway. She is also one of those people who as soon as she finds something that bothers you, she will do it constantly just to bug you! Anywho I love you!
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
Family letter home August 4, 2014 new bike rule!
Hi family!
With a new mission president comes many changes. One of those changes being we have to spend 10-15 hours on our bikes WEEKLY!!! WHAT? Yeah, I guess I will be on my bike a lot more often now. It actually isn't too bad. I am lucky to not have been sore from all the bike riding we have done recently. It was the end of the month and we were running out of miles, so we biked a lot.
This week something awesome that happened was we saw a lady at a bus stop, and so we started to teach her. Half-way through the Restoration her bus came and she got on the bus, but we gave her the pamphlet and turned around a took a few steps. The bus inched forward and the bus driver yelled to us "Hey, do you have another one of those? I need something to read" So we gave him a pamphlet too.
Also this week we taught the guy that chased us down and had all the questions about the Bible. (I told you about him last week) He is so solid! He will love the church once he gets more involved. He sees how terrible the world is getting and he hides from it, but he just needs to make the right friends. He needs the support system that this gospel brings! Everything he says he believes is also a belief that our church has. It is really cool to see how he already has all of the beliefs, he just doesn't know that we believe the same things he does!
This week I was studying Alma 19:33 and how they all professed that "their hearts had been changed." I encourage each of you to consider and reflect on how and when your heart has changed. Write down those experiences if you have not already. How has the gospel changed you?
Also, for those of you who have been sealed, why don't we ever talk about it? Will each of you write me a letter about the day you got sealed to our spouse? what was the weather like? How did you feel? Was it what you were expecting? Who was there? Why was it important to you to be sealed? How has your understanding of it changed over time? This week I realized I know NOTHING about the day my family became eternal. My companion is not sealed to her family. She was asking me all these questions about our family and when my parents were sealed and I knew nothing! How sad. So that won't happen again!!!
Love, Sister Smith
With a new mission president comes many changes. One of those changes being we have to spend 10-15 hours on our bikes WEEKLY!!! WHAT? Yeah, I guess I will be on my bike a lot more often now. It actually isn't too bad. I am lucky to not have been sore from all the bike riding we have done recently. It was the end of the month and we were running out of miles, so we biked a lot.
This week something awesome that happened was we saw a lady at a bus stop, and so we started to teach her. Half-way through the Restoration her bus came and she got on the bus, but we gave her the pamphlet and turned around a took a few steps. The bus inched forward and the bus driver yelled to us "Hey, do you have another one of those? I need something to read" So we gave him a pamphlet too.
Also this week we taught the guy that chased us down and had all the questions about the Bible. (I told you about him last week) He is so solid! He will love the church once he gets more involved. He sees how terrible the world is getting and he hides from it, but he just needs to make the right friends. He needs the support system that this gospel brings! Everything he says he believes is also a belief that our church has. It is really cool to see how he already has all of the beliefs, he just doesn't know that we believe the same things he does!
This week I was studying Alma 19:33 and how they all professed that "their hearts had been changed." I encourage each of you to consider and reflect on how and when your heart has changed. Write down those experiences if you have not already. How has the gospel changed you?
Also, for those of you who have been sealed, why don't we ever talk about it? Will each of you write me a letter about the day you got sealed to our spouse? what was the weather like? How did you feel? Was it what you were expecting? Who was there? Why was it important to you to be sealed? How has your understanding of it changed over time? This week I realized I know NOTHING about the day my family became eternal. My companion is not sealed to her family. She was asking me all these questions about our family and when my parents were sealed and I knew nothing! How sad. So that won't happen again!!!
Love, Sister Smith
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Letter to dad - mental telapathy
Hi dad. It's kind of funny that on Sunday I thought "I need to write my dad" so on Monday I wrote you, then on Wednesday I got a letter form you! We were both thinking about each other. That's cool that you get to hear from all the returned missionaries. I sure do hope that I have changed a lot too. sounds like you are doing better than everyone else at memorizing scriptures. How is it going? Do you have any new ones memorized?
I am doing OK. I'm really stressed out recently, but I'm trying hard to stay positive and calm. I don't always know if I'm doing the best I can. There is so much to do and if I can't ask my companion for help who can I ask? I have been praying so hard for the Lord to strengthen me, because I can not do it all on my own. But I still feel overwhelmed.
Sister Smith
I am doing OK. I'm really stressed out recently, but I'm trying hard to stay positive and calm. I don't always know if I'm doing the best I can. There is so much to do and if I can't ask my companion for help who can I ask? I have been praying so hard for the Lord to strengthen me, because I can not do it all on my own. But I still feel overwhelmed.
Sister Smith
Monday, August 11, 2014
fun pictures
Email August 11, 2014 learning the Ten Commandments
Computers are lovely things sometimes! haha! just when you need them they will not work. We experience computer problems frequently on Mondays. I'm glad fair went well!
I am so excited for Mel and trent! they are going to be two "new creatures in Christ" when I get home! I do not know Shannon Hamilton. How big are your family history classes? is it just for 2nd ward? is it during Sunday school?
What kind of changes are going on in Seminary? I will reply to why I chose to serve in a letter, I don't have much time today because it is district p-day but I will do it soon. All of my companion's family has been baptized but her mom was less-active (she is now re-activated since Sister Fullwood's mission) but she has been divorced twice and now she is single, her dad is Atheist, and her Sister is active now too. I do miss Sister Shumway a lot, I did not realize how much I liked her until we were not together 24/7.
It is cool that Elder Taylor got sealed to his family!
There is a cool way that the missionaries here teach the 10 commandments with hand motions, you will have to ask the Elders there about that! See if they have any good teaching tools for that!
Thank you for your prayers, this companionship is causing me a lot of stress so I have a constant head and stomach ache, and I need all the help I can get!.
With Love,
Sister Smith
On Mon, Aug 11, 2014 at 10:48 AM, Christy <tasmith64@hotmail.com> wrote:
I'm so mad I stayed up late last night writing an email to you because I am in Roosevelt now with Cassidy tumbling and knew I wouldn't have much time this morning to email. I didn't finish because I got tired and figured I could get back on this morning. My computer is being retarded and won't do anything. Good thing I have an iPad with Internet. Bad thing is I can't access the letter I already started. Oh well. When I get home maybe I will have more time to loom it over then send it.
Fair week was fine. It rained every day. Don't know what it is about fair week that brings the rain. Carnival didn't have much the kids wanted to do and the little boys were too little to ride much.
I started a new course again with Mel and Trent taking the class. Also Shannon Hamilton. I don't know if you know her. She is starting from scratch, not knowing anything about family history research. She has had this nagging feeling lately of needing to of it, but not knowing where to start. It's going to be exciting to see what she can accomplish in 7 weeks. She is probably in her late 60's I would guess. She does know how to work the computer though, which is a big plus. To start out class I asked them why they were taking the class or what they were hoping to accomplish. Trent shared how Mel coming every week has strengthened their relationship. She comes home so excited and telling Trent stories she finds or whatever. I could feel the spirit so strong during the class. I am very excited this time around. All the class is excited to be there.
They had a seminary meeting last night about a few changes they are making. I got to thinking about Morgan and how I can help him get on a mission. Some days I think it will never happen, not because he doesn't have a testimony but he gets so frustrated with things like sitting in meetings or with his young men leaders now. I keep praying to know what he needs and that he will be able to do it. How did you decide to serve, or what made you decide to do it? You can definitely respond in a letter. I understand you have lots of people to write and might need time to think about that. I did tell everyone about you wanting the temple sealing day stories and plan on sitting down today to do that. It is sad that your companion hasn't been sealed to her family. Are they members or not active? Are you enjoying her? Sounded like you were missing Sister Shumway. You can be that same example to your new companion. I love being around happy positive people. Elder Taylor that was a missionary here in Duchesne just went to the temple to be sealed to his family last week, while he was on his mission. I didn't know that could happen. So exciting to have that happen. His family has gone through lots of changes because of his decision to serve a mission.
My scripture mastery study is going well. Except I have the Ten Commandments! Not sure that will happen. I need to get to work on your brother and sister. Don't think they have even memorized one yet. Stinkers.
I got a really cool email from Beverly Caldwell today thanking me for everything I have done for her. She told me I was the best visiting teacher ever. I am not telling you this to brag, I am telling you this because people know we love them when we serve them. I am so blessed with parents who are the best examples ever of serving without complaining. I hope the people you serve will feel your love for them. I will sign off for now so I don't take up all your time. I love you and thank you for your example. We feel your spirit at home. You are in all our prayers. Have a great day! Love, mommy
Xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo (((((((( ))))))))))) hugs
I am so excited for Mel and trent! they are going to be two "new creatures in Christ" when I get home! I do not know Shannon Hamilton. How big are your family history classes? is it just for 2nd ward? is it during Sunday school?
What kind of changes are going on in Seminary? I will reply to why I chose to serve in a letter, I don't have much time today because it is district p-day but I will do it soon. All of my companion's family has been baptized but her mom was less-active (she is now re-activated since Sister Fullwood's mission) but she has been divorced twice and now she is single, her dad is Atheist, and her Sister is active now too. I do miss Sister Shumway a lot, I did not realize how much I liked her until we were not together 24/7.
It is cool that Elder Taylor got sealed to his family!
There is a cool way that the missionaries here teach the 10 commandments with hand motions, you will have to ask the Elders there about that! See if they have any good teaching tools for that!
Thank you for your prayers, this companionship is causing me a lot of stress so I have a constant head and stomach ache, and I need all the help I can get!.
With Love,
Sister Smith
On Mon, Aug 11, 2014 at 10:48 AM, Christy <tasmith64@hotmail.com> wrote:
I'm so mad I stayed up late last night writing an email to you because I am in Roosevelt now with Cassidy tumbling and knew I wouldn't have much time this morning to email. I didn't finish because I got tired and figured I could get back on this morning. My computer is being retarded and won't do anything. Good thing I have an iPad with Internet. Bad thing is I can't access the letter I already started. Oh well. When I get home maybe I will have more time to loom it over then send it.
Fair week was fine. It rained every day. Don't know what it is about fair week that brings the rain. Carnival didn't have much the kids wanted to do and the little boys were too little to ride much.
I started a new course again with Mel and Trent taking the class. Also Shannon Hamilton. I don't know if you know her. She is starting from scratch, not knowing anything about family history research. She has had this nagging feeling lately of needing to of it, but not knowing where to start. It's going to be exciting to see what she can accomplish in 7 weeks. She is probably in her late 60's I would guess. She does know how to work the computer though, which is a big plus. To start out class I asked them why they were taking the class or what they were hoping to accomplish. Trent shared how Mel coming every week has strengthened their relationship. She comes home so excited and telling Trent stories she finds or whatever. I could feel the spirit so strong during the class. I am very excited this time around. All the class is excited to be there.
They had a seminary meeting last night about a few changes they are making. I got to thinking about Morgan and how I can help him get on a mission. Some days I think it will never happen, not because he doesn't have a testimony but he gets so frustrated with things like sitting in meetings or with his young men leaders now. I keep praying to know what he needs and that he will be able to do it. How did you decide to serve, or what made you decide to do it? You can definitely respond in a letter. I understand you have lots of people to write and might need time to think about that. I did tell everyone about you wanting the temple sealing day stories and plan on sitting down today to do that. It is sad that your companion hasn't been sealed to her family. Are they members or not active? Are you enjoying her? Sounded like you were missing Sister Shumway. You can be that same example to your new companion. I love being around happy positive people. Elder Taylor that was a missionary here in Duchesne just went to the temple to be sealed to his family last week, while he was on his mission. I didn't know that could happen. So exciting to have that happen. His family has gone through lots of changes because of his decision to serve a mission.
My scripture mastery study is going well. Except I have the Ten Commandments! Not sure that will happen. I need to get to work on your brother and sister. Don't think they have even memorized one yet. Stinkers.
I got a really cool email from Beverly Caldwell today thanking me for everything I have done for her. She told me I was the best visiting teacher ever. I am not telling you this to brag, I am telling you this because people know we love them when we serve them. I am so blessed with parents who are the best examples ever of serving without complaining. I hope the people you serve will feel your love for them. I will sign off for now so I don't take up all your time. I love you and thank you for your example. We feel your spirit at home. You are in all our prayers. Have a great day! Love, mommy
Xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo (((((((( ))))))))))) hugs
Wednesday, August 6, 2014
Letter to dad August 6, 2014. Scripture mastery
Hi dad. I have not heard from you hardly at all since you got your new calling (that's not so new anymore I guess) But how are you doing? Do you like your calling? How is work? Are you finding time to do fun things this summer? Cassidy said you go to the lake a lot. That's good. How is memorizing scripture masteries going? I really like memorizing them. It helps me to think "Why is that a scripture mastery?" Why is that one so important? One of my favorites that I didn't already know is Moses 7:18. It taught me how important it is to take care of everyone. That is what Zion is!
Love, Sister Smith
Love, Sister Smith
Monday, August 4, 2014
Email August 4, 2014 Must be busy.
Sorry peeps, all I got this week for emails was responses to pictures I sent her. She must be busy.
Saturday, August 2, 2014
email July 28, 2014 New area. Downtown Minneapolis
Today I am doing so great! I love my new area, I am currently sitting in Uptown Minneapolis. My new area includes Minneapolis, downtown Minneapolis! How exciting. I drove through and I was so scared, I am going to learn how to be a city driver. I was so sad to leave the Parkinson home too. Both Sister Shumway and I were sure that it was her that was leaving, and that I was going to stay there for the rest of my mission. But It was so sweet, the Relief Society President in Maple Grove took us shopping (at Goodwill, basically a DI) and she was crying that I was leaving. I have never had anyone cry because I was leaving an area. that was definitely my favorite ward that I have served in so far. It was by far the most challenging area for me but also the one where I felt the most support and the most love I will be friends with those members forever. Sister Parkinson is not allowed to e-mail me, so she did not send me those pictures.
I am so glad that you finally realize how freakishly fast time is flying! This is no good! When does Alex Farnsworth come home? I remember the last time I saw Tyler Harper, I can't believe that was 2 years ago. . . ahh!
I ran out of money on my Mission card, so I had to buy groceries with my personal account, so I spent a lot of money at Target this week, don't be alarmed. . . The previous missionary left me no food in this new area so I had a lot to buy. My miracles this week were pretty good too! I am excited to share them in my letter home! Love Ya!
Emily's new companion, Sister Fullwood she is from Rupert, Idaho. She has only been out one more transfer than Emily.
I am so glad that you finally realize how freakishly fast time is flying! This is no good! When does Alex Farnsworth come home? I remember the last time I saw Tyler Harper, I can't believe that was 2 years ago. . . ahh!
I ran out of money on my Mission card, so I had to buy groceries with my personal account, so I spent a lot of money at Target this week, don't be alarmed. . . The previous missionary left me no food in this new area so I had a lot to buy. My miracles this week were pretty good too! I am excited to share them in my letter home! Love Ya!
Friday, August 1, 2014
Family letter 7-28-14. 11 mile bike ride
Happy late birthday to Cooper! Did you do anything fun for him? Well this week was full of surprises. when I got to my new area I found out we were on our bikes for the day. The Elders in our ward are only on bikes, so when they transferred they took our car to Bloomington. We biked 11 miles that day, not too shabby. The best part was that night we were tracting then we went to head back to our bikes so we could be home by 9:00 ish, and this guy hunted us down and began asking tons of questions, mostly about the Bible. Then we taught him about the Restoration! He loved it! He needs this gospel and this church. He wants friends that will help him be righteous. When we ended the lesson it was like 9:05 and the very latest we should be home is 9:30. We were still super far away. Let me assure you I have NEVER ridden a bike so fast in my whole life. We were both peddling so hard and praying to make it home in time. We did make it with six minutes to spare!!! The next day we got our car back. I am driving a ford :( It's a 2013 Ford Fusion.
This week I want to testify to you about the inspired nature of Patriarchal Blessings. Does Morgan have his yet? I've been worried about losing the positive influence and attitude that I have had around me for the past 12 weeks. (Sister Shumway) And how I can help my current companion to have a desire to be positive and obedient. I felt inspired to read my patriarchal blessing. One line says something about how people will be astounded at the influence I have over people just by my example. I felt so at peace knowing I have the courage and ability to change lives by my example. I just need to make sure I am obedient and cheerful!
With love, Sister Smith
This week I want to testify to you about the inspired nature of Patriarchal Blessings. Does Morgan have his yet? I've been worried about losing the positive influence and attitude that I have had around me for the past 12 weeks. (Sister Shumway) And how I can help my current companion to have a desire to be positive and obedient. I felt inspired to read my patriarchal blessing. One line says something about how people will be astounded at the influence I have over people just by my example. I felt so at peace knowing I have the courage and ability to change lives by my example. I just need to make sure I am obedient and cheerful!
With love, Sister Smith
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