With Love,
Sister Smith
Thursday, November 27, 2014
Thanksgiving pictures 2014
With Love,
Sister Smith
Monday, November 24, 2014
Nov. 24, 2014. Spending the rest of my mission in St. Louis Park
Yes news of transfers! I am staying, and Sister Nelson is going to speak Hmong! I will have a new Companion, Sister Taito. I already know her and love her!
I have studied this talk so much lately! It is so good.
I completely forgive you that you did not write a letter. I was glad to get the planner, and the pictures of Cassidy! My companion really struggled this week with not getting any mail, so it was okay that I didn't get lots because that would have made her feel worse.
I do not know what triggered the depression. I think a lot to do with figuring out going home, this companionship was really hard for me, so is being in this ward and feeling no support, then being near the end of my mission (President Uchtdorf talks about how we resist endings. . . that's me!), no invitation for Thanksgiving(specially when both of the Elders had a place to go), Throw Satan in the midst and you have depression. My past two companions have had Depression, and I think just being around a depressed person 24/7 for 4 1/2 months just got to me.You often become like your companions.
Who in our family has had depression? The Therapist asked me if any family members have had it, and I told her no. . . I really do feel much more calm. There has been a huge change in both my companion and I this week, and of course there are still down days, but I do feel better, we will see how this new companionship goes. . . She is a really happy person so I am sure all will be well:)
I think the best way for you to help is to just write (if you are busy it is okay, I am fine without a letter but it is nice to hear from you). I truly feel like I am on my way back up, coming out of the depression.
haha! sorry, but the last place I want to live is in the LLC with a ton of Freshmen. . . But she can come visit me often:) How far away is my apartment from campus?
I will remind myself daily of the love everyone has for me:) I was hard to share with you, that's why I waited for such a long time before I told you.
You don't need to contact the therapist I only get one more session with her, and that will be tomorrow. I do not need medicine. There are 2 kinds of depression, and only the hereditary kind needs medicine, usually. I don't have the hereditary kind:) I don't need any oils, I still have a lot that are supposed to relieve stress, and I use those. I have been praying for happiness for the rest of my mission, and I found some of it this week.
I do keep a gratitude journal, I write down things on my family calendar, so I can see my family, and all my blessings every time I look at the calendar:) I will share with you next week.
I gotta get going, Just so you know:
- I will not write letters until Thursday this week so you will get letters, it will just be later.
- We did finally get an invitation for Thanksgiving, we will not be alone!
- Will you make an appointment for me with the Dentist and the orthodontist shortly after I get home, my mouth feels so gross! and I wanted to make sure that my teeth are okay. I was supossed to go to the ortho before I left but never did, so do you think I need to go? should I still be wearing my retainers? IDK! I LOVE YOU!
With Love,
Sister Smith
On Sun, Nov 23, 2014 Christy wrote:
Any news of transfers yet?
" It is easy to be grateful for things when life seems to be going our way. But what then of those times when what we wish for seems to be far out of reach? Could I suggest that we see gratitude as a disposition, a way of life that stands independent of our current situation? In other words, I’m suggesting that instead of being thankful for things, we focus on being thankful in our circumstances—whatever they may be.""
—Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "Grateful in Any Circumstances"
I had a great talk today with Sister Forbes. I just called her to see how you were and thank her for getting you some help. She recommend I study this talk, and can you believe I checked my email today and this was one of the daily messages that I received. Tender mercies of a very loving Heavenly Father. I was shocked to say the least when I opened up your letter on Saturday. I have been very disturbed and am going to beg forgiveness that I didn't write you this week. I went Friday to get the mail and thought "Oh ya, Emily said she was going to be busy this week" I felt kind of bummed about the whole situation. Then I realized that you were going to feel the same way and it was too late. And now I feel even worse. I got sick this week and all I wanted to do for days was sleep. I finally got tired of it and went to see Darwin who gave me a shot and some pills. I just haven't been able to break up all the congestion in my head. The play is going full force and that was crazy too. Feeding the cast and working in the concession at intermission. I know they are all excuses and not very good ones. I am begging forgiveness. I should have sent something. But I did help Jenn get the planner out. Does that count?
Well of course I have some questions. Do you know what triggered your depression? Was it a snowball effect of moving to an apartment from the Parkinson home? I know the missing mail from me didn't help and it makes me so sad. I am not going to make a big deal out of it, but I certainly am not going to brush it off either. I know depression is real. I have witnessed it in friends and family. What can I do to help? Besides Pray? I looked back on the timing of when and why I even sent you that video. So weird. I know you went thru a lot of stress worrying about coming home and going to school, but hopefully that is not bothering you anymore. Allyson came home this weekend for the play. I told her when you were coming home and she screamed!!! She wants you to come live with her. I told her I found you an apartment already. And at church today, she again told me how extremely excited she is for you to come to Logan.
There are lots of resources and helps for people and families of people dealing with depression. Sister Forbes told me that you are in a special place and have extra protection dealing with this situation. Of course Satan does not want you to be happy and successful, but you have a Father in Heaven who has promised you blessings upon your obedience as you serve Him. The very most important thing for you to remember and say daily is "God, mom and dad, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents and nephews love you so much" Say it daily!!! I mean it. You are not alone and we can pull you through it. I hope you don't care that I shared your letter with the family. I want them to give you extra prayers. I am also going to put your name on the prayer roll at the temple--again!! Thank you so much for sharing your feelings with me. It was probably really hard. Do you want me to be involved and contact the therapist? Is it bad enough that you need medicine to help you get thru this? I just don't know and I know it is hard to get my feelings thru an email, but I promise I am not freaking out. Just want to help and don't know how. I am sure Do Terra has some oils that can help with anxiety. Do you want me to check into that? I know you want to find happiness for the rest of your mission. You have done so many good things. And whether you see it or not, have affected so many people by your example. Think about all your new friends you will have for life. Old mission companions, investigators, Relief Society presidents, the Parkinson's, etc, etc. etc. This week give your Father the gift of gratitude and count your blessings. Do you keep a gratitude journal? Do you jot down or note in your planner tender mercies and miracles witnessed? Let's do it together and share it next week.
Quoting President Ezra Taft Benson, Sister Curtis said that prayer is the key to keeping depression from destroying individuals.
“Sisters, I testify that the Lord will send answers to prayers with the ability to penetrate the darkest, darkest feelings of depression,” Sister Curtis said. “In fact, when we ask for His Spirit, it has the ability to heal us. The Lord wants to help us mend. We need to ask—and ask often—as often as it takes.”
“I testify that Jesus Christ loves you, and He has the power to comfort, strengthen, and bless those who suffer with depression because He is the master mender.” —Amy C. Curtis, LDS Family Services.
Enough of that for now. On to brighter things.
Class schedule: Careers and Life planning, Cindy Stokes. Parenting and child guidance, Kay Bradford. Families and Cultural Diversity, Grant Bartholomew. Family Finance, Alena Johnson and just for fun-Aerobic Kickboxing!!!
Well Lindsey and Ty signed closing papers on the house. They will start moving in tomorrow. They are going to Brigham City for Thanksgiving and hope to have things kind of set up before they go. I think it sounds chaotic! Cooper has been sick all week too. It started out with a cold then turned worse. Now it is his tummy. He hasn't felt good for four days now. It is so sad. He tries hard to play, then stops and lays down with his blankie. He tries to eat, but just doesn't eat much.
Grandma and grandpa got called to replace Lindsey and Ty teaching primary. Too funny. But the bishopric gave them beautiful blessings today. I thought, dang I want one of those, just not a new calling. I want to stay put in the family history center.
For dad's birthday, we are running away after thanksgiving. We decided to go to the Grand Canyon. Weather is suppose to be in the 60's. Man I will take that. Just don't know what we might have to go thru to get there. It is in the southern part of Utah. No wrestling and no drill. I can't wait.
Well I better sign off for now. It's getting late. Remember who you are and remember we are here for you! xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox Love, Momsy
I have studied this talk so much lately! It is so good.
I completely forgive you that you did not write a letter. I was glad to get the planner, and the pictures of Cassidy! My companion really struggled this week with not getting any mail, so it was okay that I didn't get lots because that would have made her feel worse.
I do not know what triggered the depression. I think a lot to do with figuring out going home, this companionship was really hard for me, so is being in this ward and feeling no support, then being near the end of my mission (President Uchtdorf talks about how we resist endings. . . that's me!), no invitation for Thanksgiving(specially when both of the Elders had a place to go), Throw Satan in the midst and you have depression. My past two companions have had Depression, and I think just being around a depressed person 24/7 for 4 1/2 months just got to me.You often become like your companions.
Who in our family has had depression? The Therapist asked me if any family members have had it, and I told her no. . . I really do feel much more calm. There has been a huge change in both my companion and I this week, and of course there are still down days, but I do feel better, we will see how this new companionship goes. . . She is a really happy person so I am sure all will be well:)
I think the best way for you to help is to just write (if you are busy it is okay, I am fine without a letter but it is nice to hear from you). I truly feel like I am on my way back up, coming out of the depression.
haha! sorry, but the last place I want to live is in the LLC with a ton of Freshmen. . . But she can come visit me often:) How far away is my apartment from campus?
I will remind myself daily of the love everyone has for me:) I was hard to share with you, that's why I waited for such a long time before I told you.
You don't need to contact the therapist I only get one more session with her, and that will be tomorrow. I do not need medicine. There are 2 kinds of depression, and only the hereditary kind needs medicine, usually. I don't have the hereditary kind:) I don't need any oils, I still have a lot that are supposed to relieve stress, and I use those. I have been praying for happiness for the rest of my mission, and I found some of it this week.
I do keep a gratitude journal, I write down things on my family calendar, so I can see my family, and all my blessings every time I look at the calendar:) I will share with you next week.
I gotta get going, Just so you know:
- I will not write letters until Thursday this week so you will get letters, it will just be later.
- We did finally get an invitation for Thanksgiving, we will not be alone!
- Will you make an appointment for me with the Dentist and the orthodontist shortly after I get home, my mouth feels so gross! and I wanted to make sure that my teeth are okay. I was supossed to go to the ortho before I left but never did, so do you think I need to go? should I still be wearing my retainers? IDK! I LOVE YOU!
With Love,
Sister Smith
On Sun, Nov 23, 2014 Christy wrote:
Any news of transfers yet?
" It is easy to be grateful for things when life seems to be going our way. But what then of those times when what we wish for seems to be far out of reach? Could I suggest that we see gratitude as a disposition, a way of life that stands independent of our current situation? In other words, I’m suggesting that instead of being thankful for things, we focus on being thankful in our circumstances—whatever they may be.""
—Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "Grateful in Any Circumstances"
I had a great talk today with Sister Forbes. I just called her to see how you were and thank her for getting you some help. She recommend I study this talk, and can you believe I checked my email today and this was one of the daily messages that I received. Tender mercies of a very loving Heavenly Father. I was shocked to say the least when I opened up your letter on Saturday. I have been very disturbed and am going to beg forgiveness that I didn't write you this week. I went Friday to get the mail and thought "Oh ya, Emily said she was going to be busy this week" I felt kind of bummed about the whole situation. Then I realized that you were going to feel the same way and it was too late. And now I feel even worse. I got sick this week and all I wanted to do for days was sleep. I finally got tired of it and went to see Darwin who gave me a shot and some pills. I just haven't been able to break up all the congestion in my head. The play is going full force and that was crazy too. Feeding the cast and working in the concession at intermission. I know they are all excuses and not very good ones. I am begging forgiveness. I should have sent something. But I did help Jenn get the planner out. Does that count?
Well of course I have some questions. Do you know what triggered your depression? Was it a snowball effect of moving to an apartment from the Parkinson home? I know the missing mail from me didn't help and it makes me so sad. I am not going to make a big deal out of it, but I certainly am not going to brush it off either. I know depression is real. I have witnessed it in friends and family. What can I do to help? Besides Pray? I looked back on the timing of when and why I even sent you that video. So weird. I know you went thru a lot of stress worrying about coming home and going to school, but hopefully that is not bothering you anymore. Allyson came home this weekend for the play. I told her when you were coming home and she screamed!!! She wants you to come live with her. I told her I found you an apartment already. And at church today, she again told me how extremely excited she is for you to come to Logan.
There are lots of resources and helps for people and families of people dealing with depression. Sister Forbes told me that you are in a special place and have extra protection dealing with this situation. Of course Satan does not want you to be happy and successful, but you have a Father in Heaven who has promised you blessings upon your obedience as you serve Him. The very most important thing for you to remember and say daily is "God, mom and dad, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents and nephews love you so much" Say it daily!!! I mean it. You are not alone and we can pull you through it. I hope you don't care that I shared your letter with the family. I want them to give you extra prayers. I am also going to put your name on the prayer roll at the temple--again!! Thank you so much for sharing your feelings with me. It was probably really hard. Do you want me to be involved and contact the therapist? Is it bad enough that you need medicine to help you get thru this? I just don't know and I know it is hard to get my feelings thru an email, but I promise I am not freaking out. Just want to help and don't know how. I am sure Do Terra has some oils that can help with anxiety. Do you want me to check into that? I know you want to find happiness for the rest of your mission. You have done so many good things. And whether you see it or not, have affected so many people by your example. Think about all your new friends you will have for life. Old mission companions, investigators, Relief Society presidents, the Parkinson's, etc, etc. etc. This week give your Father the gift of gratitude and count your blessings. Do you keep a gratitude journal? Do you jot down or note in your planner tender mercies and miracles witnessed? Let's do it together and share it next week.
Quoting President Ezra Taft Benson, Sister Curtis said that prayer is the key to keeping depression from destroying individuals.
“Sisters, I testify that the Lord will send answers to prayers with the ability to penetrate the darkest, darkest feelings of depression,” Sister Curtis said. “In fact, when we ask for His Spirit, it has the ability to heal us. The Lord wants to help us mend. We need to ask—and ask often—as often as it takes.”
“I testify that Jesus Christ loves you, and He has the power to comfort, strengthen, and bless those who suffer with depression because He is the master mender.” —Amy C. Curtis, LDS Family Services.
Enough of that for now. On to brighter things.
Class schedule: Careers and Life planning, Cindy Stokes. Parenting and child guidance, Kay Bradford. Families and Cultural Diversity, Grant Bartholomew. Family Finance, Alena Johnson and just for fun-Aerobic Kickboxing!!!
Well Lindsey and Ty signed closing papers on the house. They will start moving in tomorrow. They are going to Brigham City for Thanksgiving and hope to have things kind of set up before they go. I think it sounds chaotic! Cooper has been sick all week too. It started out with a cold then turned worse. Now it is his tummy. He hasn't felt good for four days now. It is so sad. He tries hard to play, then stops and lays down with his blankie. He tries to eat, but just doesn't eat much.
Grandma and grandpa got called to replace Lindsey and Ty teaching primary. Too funny. But the bishopric gave them beautiful blessings today. I thought, dang I want one of those, just not a new calling. I want to stay put in the family history center.
For dad's birthday, we are running away after thanksgiving. We decided to go to the Grand Canyon. Weather is suppose to be in the 60's. Man I will take that. Just don't know what we might have to go thru to get there. It is in the southern part of Utah. No wrestling and no drill. I can't wait.
Well I better sign off for now. It's getting late. Remember who you are and remember we are here for you! xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox Love, Momsy
Monday, November 17, 2014
Winter Strikes in Minnesota 11-17-14
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Winter Strikes again here in the frozen land of Minnesota! since last Monday it has not stopped being freezing. But we are doing well, and I'm doing my best to stay warm! Yesterday, we got to go to a fireside with our investigators and they loved it, they were really touched by the friendliness of the people there and also the Spirit that they felt. They are Marathon runners from Kenya and they have been to a lot of places, and everywhere they go they find missionaries from our church! The Lord is leading us to them over and over again! so cool!
With Love,
Sister Smith
Response from my letter which is posted below:
We had Stake conference too! Seriously it was so inspirational! My Stake President is such an amazing man and I feel peace come over me whenever I get to hear him speak. He is such a great leader! It was all about the Share Goodness talk by Elder Bednar. I did not even know Angel Peatross went on a mission! Missions are pretty good things. Good thing you have Morgan in a few years to make you a missionary mom again!
I've also been thinking a lot about companions I have had, and what I have learned from each of them. They are all so great, and I can not wait to see them again (most of them are already home).
A huge part of missionary work is talking to people you don't know. Strike up conversations to strangers. I know that sounds crazy, and still a challenge in Duchesne but you never know who is struggling, or who needs to be reminded of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Have you filled out one of those, My family Booklets the church has produced? A member of the 70 came to our mission and talked about how we need to fill those out and then talk about it with people that we meet, when we are in line at the grocery store and everywhere!
I am so excited! this sounds so great!!!!! I seriously feel good about this! Lindsey did not send me the schedule, I would love to know what classes I am signed up for. I've been kind of worried about an apartment too, I am so excited that you found me a place to live! Honestly I am glad to not be at Brentwood anymore, the friends I had there were not the greatest, so I am glad to be totally removed from the situation:) Where in Logan are the Apple Tree Cove apartments? I am excited to have a private room, it has been a LONG time since I have not shared a room. Plus, I HATE coin operated laundry, i am so glad to not have that anymore, hopefully ever! Thank you so much for finding this, and getting it all figured out for me I am so grateful!
The Elders found my GPS in the library at the church building. Where we have looked tons of times!
Transfers are November 26th. But we will find out next monday who goes where. I will keep you posted.
Last week I had plans to get my hair dyed and tons of other stuff, this was the 1 p-day we had actually made plans and I was so devastated that we could not do any of it because we could not drive, and we couldn't even e-mail or shop unless we walked, and we could not get a hold of the members that live close so we could use their house to e-mail, then no one would give us a ride to the places we needed to go, but then at like 1:30 a member finally responded and gave us a ride to where we needed to go, and then getting a haircut and color took a SUPER long time, and then we went out to work! So it was just crazy!
Zone P-day today, so probably not anything super awesome should be expected in the mail but maybe i will find time:) Yeh Eh Nah Pah Do!
With Love,
Sister Smith
On Sun, Nov 16, 2014 at 10:50 PM, Christy Smith <tasmith64@hotmail.com> wrote:
We had Stake conference this weekend. It was different for the Saturday evening meeting they held it like a report from a returned missionary. We had four newly returned missionaries there: Elder Farnsworth, Sister Angel Peatross and two from Tabiona a Sister Nelson and Elder Brown. The members of the high council were all seated on the stand and the missionaries would get up one at a time and do like a report to the Stake Presidency. After they shared some thoughts the High Council had an opportunity to ask questions about their mission. I just got so excited and cant believe that will be you soon. I can’t wait to hear all about your mission in your words from you. The Sister’s killed it. I just love being a missionary mom. I feel like I am part of a very elite group. It is so awesome to hear how happy they all all. How their testimonies grew and the miracles they were able to witness. They all bore testimony how they knew the Lord had sent them to the right place. So I started thinking about places you have been and companions you have had. I want to meet them. And I can’t wait to meet the people you have helped and served. The missionaries all talked about how important the ward Is and how much better it is to get a referral from a friend. I keep thinking who can I be teaching and inviting. Bobbi is really my only friend that isn’t active. I have prayed for missionary experiences before, but maybe I haven’t listened very well for an answer. Maybe my service is at the family history center and getting people involved in their journey to turn their hearts to their fathers. Right now I have Lana Jordan and the Johnson’s. (I think I told you that already) But it is so exciting to hear how much fun they are having. Every week Lana tells us something new she learned. No one in the class has been to the temple “yet”. Lana is one of those women who have been to church alone her whole life. Never having the support of her husband. That is so sad to me. So when I talk about doing names at the temple, I try to be very careful and not offend her or make her sad. I always tell her that she can arrange to have the work done. Maybe doing this work will inspire her to do it herself. Ginger and Troy Johnson really need the temple. From what I have been told, I think he is (or was) a drinker. He was really interested in doing family history when he came to class. He didn’t seem like he didn’t want to be there. So I guess we will see where this journey takes them. Hopefully to the temple! I love the work. I love finding and adding people to my family. It really gives me so much happiness.
So I know Lindsey got you registered for classes this week. We figured it’s easier to drop a class that you don’t want than it is to get into one. I don’t know if she sent you the schedule or if you want me to. I was so worried about finding an apartment for you. I tried for two days to call David Walker at Brentwood. I only got the answering machine. But one day I was looking up a number to call or email contact and I found a website that listed contracts that were for sale in Logan. I was so excited. Lindsey was here and she helped me make sure I found a good deal in a good place. I found you an apartment!!!! We are taking over a contract for a girl who is getting married. Apple Tree Cove apartments with a private room and private bathroom! Washer and dryer in the apartment. (I figured you were tired of coin op laundry!) The apartments are only two years old so they should still be in good shape. I hated having to get a room never seeing the place, but I figured Heavenly Father lead me to the website and place. Honestly just now I tried again to find the site, and I can’t. But I have signed a contract and you are set. I don’t really know if I will have time this week to write a letter. The play starts Thursday and you know what that does to all our time. It will be crazy. And I am trying to figure out what to do for dad’s big 50TH birthday on Friday! Lindsey has been sewing like crazy to get Morgan’ s and other people’s costumes ready. She is a lifesaver.
I am so happy the Elder’s found your GPS. Where did that ever end up? That is so crazy.
I want to send you the Christmas tree and stuff, but when are transfers again? I don’t want you to have to pack it up to transfer. I want to send Sister Nelson some stuff too. So keep me posted.
I had to laugh at the letter you sent home, because in the family letter you said you would have lots of time to write letters because it was snowing and you couldn’t drive cars. Then my letter was so short. “Love ya….things got super crazy.” It was funny. Thanks for thinking of me and I am glad you are ok. I love you tons and tons and tons!!! Thanks for your example to all of us at home. Hope you feel our prayers in your behalf. Every day!!! Yeh Eh Nah Pa Doh!!! Mommy
Tuesday, November 11, 2014
Gaining the trust of the ward. November 10, 2014
That is so weird, mail is being so funky. I am fine when I was in Maple Grove I went to the doctor twice because once they told me I had allergies, and the other time they told me I had athlete's foot (which I totally contracted from our apartment that the Elders used to live in.) But I guess that I forgot to pay something somewhere, so I just did it. Okay, January 3rd. it is final. . . gah!
Alex is a popular guy. . . haha! It is so weird that the Fosters moved. I remember them talking about moving my senior year but it was never real, but I guess that it actually was! Yeah, this morning we woke up to tons of snow, we are not allowed to drive our cars, and it is not supposed to stop for a few hours. I broke out the last of my winter gear today:( I will be okay without the fleece lined tights for a while, you can wait until the ones from Kohl's get here. It is funny, people at the post office know me too, sometimes I have to go in to get packages, and so they know my address and they stopped checking for ID because they know who I am :) It is so crazy that Tyler is coming home now. I think I'll be the next to come home Is that right? When does MaCoy come home?
I did get Lexi's announcement. I Put it on my fridge:) She is so pretty, and I was so happy to see that it was in the Temple!!!I had no idea that Chelise went to Peru, that is so crazy. (I guess would I expect anything less from Chelise?)
I have a hard time believeing Morgan gets up at 4:30 am! does he like it so far?
Things with the ward are still rough. I think the first step is that I need to warm up to them, because once I love them, they will have an easier time loving me. . . but it takes time. We have tried everything in the book to gain their trust and it is a challenge. They still have no plans for us for Thanksgiving. . . Who lets missionaries be alone on Thanksgiving day???? No, we will talk to the Relief Socitey President about it and I am sure we will find something! It is hard to go to a ward where you do not feel welcomed or loved.
My scripture masteries I have 4 more of D&C and I have 1/2 the Book of Mormon ones memorized:) So they are coming along!
With Love,
Sister Smith
On Sun, Nov 9, 2014 Christy wrote:
I don't know what's up with the mail system lately. No mail from you last week. Hopefully Monday. I checked your bank balance it is 152.24. I did notice a payment to the North Clinic for 10.00. Are you ok? I did finally get things worked out with with the travel home information. I didn't hear from President Forbes, so friday I called him back. His wife answered his phone and she gave me the number to mission travel. I called them so I could get the exact price and book it if we could afford it. The cost was 200.00 to change then the difference in the ticket price which was 42.00. I was so happy it wasn't too much. So I got things changed and have the itinerary now. You travel home January 3! I don't know if you really want to know that or not, but nevertheless now you know.
Alex talked in church today. It was pretty crowded. Mr and Mrs Foster came. I never see them anymore. I guess they built a house down south. Gayle still works in Roosevelt so they are kind of back and forth between houses. Mr Foster told me Minnesota is in for a winter storm, so I looked online. I hope you have your winter gear out again! I bought one pair of tights for you and we ordered more. I don't know what size for sure. We just got large. Lindsey found some on Kohls website. How badly do you need them? Should I wait until the ones from Kohls get here or do you want me to get the pair I have now out? I don't care either way. They love me at the post office! haha. Tyler Harper comes home Wednesday! Clayton was visiting with me one day at the post office. He was shocked that I send out mail every week and email on Mondays too. Well that's a man for you, even if he is a dad. I still like to get mail and hold the letters in my hands and read them whenever I want. I like to see your handwriting too. lol.
Lexi got married Friday. Did you get the announcement? I went to the reception. She looked beautiful. I attached one of the many pictures they have posted to facebook. Chelise came home from Peru to be here for the wedding. Did you know Chelise went to Peru? She went to teach english for three months. Xela Rowley went with her, but for some reason she came home earlier than Chelise. So she was there alone for a month! I would die to leave you alone in a foreign country. Minnesota is far enough and I know you are in good hands.
I am so glad Lindsey is here to help sew costumes for Morgan for the play. You know he is hard to fit in any of the stuff they have in the storage closet of play stuff. I went down one Saturday and helped sew a ruffle on a skirt. I was pretty proud of myself.
I don't know if Morgan told you or not, but he has decided to start wrestling. (Probably better keep that a secret. Don't tell him I told you!) Mr Lym at the school (he took Conley Moon's place with FFA and welding, shop class) talked Morgan into wrestling. So he gets up at 4:30 AM!!!! to be at practice at 5. Can you believe that? I can't. I am sooooo glad he has a license. I can't get up that early unless i started going to bed at 9 at night. The coaches are so happy to have him there.
How are things going with the ward? Are they warming up to you two yet? I know Braken has mentioned the need to get the ward members involved. I know how important that is to have a friend at church. Even grandma mentioned she wanted to go back to Idaho, because they are always so happy to see them and here nobody said anything about being happy to see them. I know people talked to them at trunk or treat, but that is how she felt. We just get set in our ways and do our things at church. Go to sacrament, then go to class etc. I try really hard to look around and see who I haven't talked to in a while. Especially in Relief Society I always go sit my someone who is sitting alone. I hate to sit alone. We just have to look out for each other right!
I now have 10 scripture masteries memorized (i think I still know them all haha) How are yours going?
Well I think I will sign off for now. It's bed time. I love you tons. Remember who you are. Keep warm!!!!! Love, MOM
Alex is a popular guy. . . haha! It is so weird that the Fosters moved. I remember them talking about moving my senior year but it was never real, but I guess that it actually was! Yeah, this morning we woke up to tons of snow, we are not allowed to drive our cars, and it is not supposed to stop for a few hours. I broke out the last of my winter gear today:( I will be okay without the fleece lined tights for a while, you can wait until the ones from Kohl's get here. It is funny, people at the post office know me too, sometimes I have to go in to get packages, and so they know my address and they stopped checking for ID because they know who I am :) It is so crazy that Tyler is coming home now. I think I'll be the next to come home Is that right? When does MaCoy come home?
I did get Lexi's announcement. I Put it on my fridge:) She is so pretty, and I was so happy to see that it was in the Temple!!!I had no idea that Chelise went to Peru, that is so crazy. (I guess would I expect anything less from Chelise?)
I have a hard time believeing Morgan gets up at 4:30 am! does he like it so far?
Things with the ward are still rough. I think the first step is that I need to warm up to them, because once I love them, they will have an easier time loving me. . . but it takes time. We have tried everything in the book to gain their trust and it is a challenge. They still have no plans for us for Thanksgiving. . . Who lets missionaries be alone on Thanksgiving day???? No, we will talk to the Relief Socitey President about it and I am sure we will find something! It is hard to go to a ward where you do not feel welcomed or loved.
My scripture masteries I have 4 more of D&C and I have 1/2 the Book of Mormon ones memorized:) So they are coming along!
With Love,
Sister Smith
On Sun, Nov 9, 2014 Christy wrote:
I don't know what's up with the mail system lately. No mail from you last week. Hopefully Monday. I checked your bank balance it is 152.24. I did notice a payment to the North Clinic for 10.00. Are you ok? I did finally get things worked out with with the travel home information. I didn't hear from President Forbes, so friday I called him back. His wife answered his phone and she gave me the number to mission travel. I called them so I could get the exact price and book it if we could afford it. The cost was 200.00 to change then the difference in the ticket price which was 42.00. I was so happy it wasn't too much. So I got things changed and have the itinerary now. You travel home January 3! I don't know if you really want to know that or not, but nevertheless now you know.
Alex talked in church today. It was pretty crowded. Mr and Mrs Foster came. I never see them anymore. I guess they built a house down south. Gayle still works in Roosevelt so they are kind of back and forth between houses. Mr Foster told me Minnesota is in for a winter storm, so I looked online. I hope you have your winter gear out again! I bought one pair of tights for you and we ordered more. I don't know what size for sure. We just got large. Lindsey found some on Kohls website. How badly do you need them? Should I wait until the ones from Kohls get here or do you want me to get the pair I have now out? I don't care either way. They love me at the post office! haha. Tyler Harper comes home Wednesday! Clayton was visiting with me one day at the post office. He was shocked that I send out mail every week and email on Mondays too. Well that's a man for you, even if he is a dad. I still like to get mail and hold the letters in my hands and read them whenever I want. I like to see your handwriting too. lol.
Lexi got married Friday. Did you get the announcement? I went to the reception. She looked beautiful. I attached one of the many pictures they have posted to facebook. Chelise came home from Peru to be here for the wedding. Did you know Chelise went to Peru? She went to teach english for three months. Xela Rowley went with her, but for some reason she came home earlier than Chelise. So she was there alone for a month! I would die to leave you alone in a foreign country. Minnesota is far enough and I know you are in good hands.
I am so glad Lindsey is here to help sew costumes for Morgan for the play. You know he is hard to fit in any of the stuff they have in the storage closet of play stuff. I went down one Saturday and helped sew a ruffle on a skirt. I was pretty proud of myself.
I don't know if Morgan told you or not, but he has decided to start wrestling. (Probably better keep that a secret. Don't tell him I told you!) Mr Lym at the school (he took Conley Moon's place with FFA and welding, shop class) talked Morgan into wrestling. So he gets up at 4:30 AM!!!! to be at practice at 5. Can you believe that? I can't. I am sooooo glad he has a license. I can't get up that early unless i started going to bed at 9 at night. The coaches are so happy to have him there.
How are things going with the ward? Are they warming up to you two yet? I know Braken has mentioned the need to get the ward members involved. I know how important that is to have a friend at church. Even grandma mentioned she wanted to go back to Idaho, because they are always so happy to see them and here nobody said anything about being happy to see them. I know people talked to them at trunk or treat, but that is how she felt. We just get set in our ways and do our things at church. Go to sacrament, then go to class etc. I try really hard to look around and see who I haven't talked to in a while. Especially in Relief Society I always go sit my someone who is sitting alone. I hate to sit alone. We just have to look out for each other right!
I now have 10 scripture masteries memorized (i think I still know them all haha) How are yours going?
Well I think I will sign off for now. It's bed time. I love you tons. Remember who you are. Keep warm!!!!! Love, MOM
Monday, November 10, 2014
Letter home November 10, 2014 Kenya Investigators
Habari Yako, (Swaheli)
We have some investigators that are from Kenya. IT is pretty neat to be around people from other counties all the time! A few days ago they fed us, it was called Ugali. It was white stuff we ate with spinach. It was so yummy! Also, we stopped by a potential investigator's home and it was neat to see how the Lord was guiding us to her. Soon she is having a pretty major surgery and she has no one to go to the hospital with her. So when we stopped by she just needed someone to listen to her. She is really scared for this surgery. This potential is pretty crazy, but it was good timing for us to be able to be there for her.
Wednesday the Elders found my GPS! It was so exciting to have it back. It was also good to be without it, so I really had to follow the spirit to get me where we needed to go. It build my confidence in myself and my map reading. But it is so nice to have it back for when we get lost.
Today we woke up to snow! Lots of it! we are actually not able to drive our cars today because of all the snow. IT is so crazy, so I don;t know how we can shop, or email or do anything else we planned on doing today. But hopefully I'll get a lot of letters written. With Love, Sister Smith
We have some investigators that are from Kenya. IT is pretty neat to be around people from other counties all the time! A few days ago they fed us, it was called Ugali. It was white stuff we ate with spinach. It was so yummy! Also, we stopped by a potential investigator's home and it was neat to see how the Lord was guiding us to her. Soon she is having a pretty major surgery and she has no one to go to the hospital with her. So when we stopped by she just needed someone to listen to her. She is really scared for this surgery. This potential is pretty crazy, but it was good timing for us to be able to be there for her.
Wednesday the Elders found my GPS! It was so exciting to have it back. It was also good to be without it, so I really had to follow the spirit to get me where we needed to go. It build my confidence in myself and my map reading. But it is so nice to have it back for when we get lost.
Today we woke up to snow! Lots of it! we are actually not able to drive our cars today because of all the snow. IT is so crazy, so I don;t know how we can shop, or email or do anything else we planned on doing today. But hopefully I'll get a lot of letters written. With Love, Sister Smith
Monday, November 3, 2014
November 3, 2014 Coming home
------Before I read your e-mail------
My thoughts are that I know that there are a lot of Sisters going home Dec 17th and I think that I need to be here longer than that. Honestly I want to come home a week(ish) early so that I can adjust a tiny bit, go to the dentist, spend some time with you, gather my stuff, move to Logan, adjust to Logan and then go to school without being a nervous wreck because I don't know where anything is and everything is a mess. I think that if I come home before Christmas and be around you all for a long time then move out again, it will be hard for me and I will just make the process of adjusting be drawn out and longer than necessary. I'd rather just start school on the 7th, go to school for a week and a few days then come spend the 4 day weekend with you all, so it will be less of a me adjusting to being around family again, then by the time I get used to that I will be adjusting to being on my own again. and this time not even Lindsey or Megan are in Logan to keep me sane. I want to be in Logan on the 7th, and i also feel like the mission needs me for as long as I can stay.
---after I read the e-mail---
I did get my packages from the mission office, I finally went down there, I have not been to the mission office since MAY. . . that is so long! I could use some fleece lined TIGHTS, not leggings. also my companion wants to try the prepared pantry syrup.
Well, When I get home I will help you, I will be close to a temple, and I am sure I will be missing the Spirit so I'll go to the temple. . . Actually a member of the 70 came to the mission and he told us to make sure our family had a name ready for us to go do sealings for when we get home, so save one for me:)
I do remember Bill, He was such a nice guy, how many siblings did Grandma have? I did write you too, maybe the mail system is just going on the fritz for us. . . Because I sent it!
He told me it would be $200 to change tickets. I will pay for it, I know you and dad have been forking out a lot of money for me in the past 20 years (but especially in the past 3). I feel right about it.
Movies sounds fun, that is really special that Cassidy wanted to still sit by you! Have you seen Meet the Mormons yet? President said I could call you today (monday) So I have to finish my e-mailing then I will call and confirm things.
With Love,
Sister Smith
On Sun, Nov 2, 2014, Christy wrote:
So before I say much about your visit with President Forbes. I want to know your feelings. What did you learn and what thoughts are mulling around in your head? I want you to tell me before the end of my email where I tell you our thoughts.
I am really hoping you got your packages finally from the mission office. It is because I sent them in a padded envelope, not first class or parcel post that they couldn't forward them to you. So we had to wait for someone coming your way to bring them. Awful! I know I am so sorry. But think of all the packages you have gotten recently. (hopefully) I have another one going out soon, so if there is anything you need, please speak now or forever hold your peace.
The conference talk we listened to today was "The Book" one of my very favorite talks. I love how he compares life to a passport and things have to be done in a certain way and in order to get to your destination. Just like baptism and confirmation are stamps in the passport of life to get us back to Heavenly Father. I love that he says family history work should be done by families. I need some help to get all this done. I am seriously thinking I might have to share with the temple system. I don't want our ancestors to have to wait any longer. I do have my favorites, that I have had to hunt for that I feel so close to that I am keeping and some I am handing out to relatives, but I feel bad making them wait and I am sure they don't really care who does the work for them.
I don't know if you remember my mom's brother Bill. They live in Alpine in the big house with the pool table downstairs. We use to have Christmas parties there. Anyway, he died last week. In his sleep, figured maybe had a heart attack. The funeral is this week. Makes me sad for my mom. Now she only has one brother left of family that she knows.
I didn't get any mail this week, so I am really hoping you aren't trying to get back at me for not writing, which I did. Jk. I am sure you are busy.
When I got home from the fhc on wednesday night, I had a message from President Forbes to call. He was funny. "It is not an emergency and I just want to talk about travel arrangements" is how he started out the message. I am glad. I might have freaked out a bit if I didn't know you had a visit with him this week. From what I understand, we would have to buy you a ticket because yours is already purchased. I think it would be the price of a full ticket. I can check if I need to. I am suppose to call President Forbes back when we decide what we are going to do. So dad is thinking you should just come home on the 7th and live and work around here until summer or fall. It seems to be a hassle and I think it messes up companionships if you leave early.That is what Rick said anyway. I know travel during the holidays is hard and expensive. I know Lindsey wrote you an email tonight about things you can busy yourself with. I can definitely put you to work in the Family History Center!!!
I am trying not to be selfish and am praying to know what is best for you. Only you can decide. So what are you thinking? I know it is so hard trying to decide on things like this thru email and not being able to really talk about it. We will support whatever you decide. Just decide then pray to know if it is right. Then let me know what to do.
Dad and Morgan went to Las Vegas this weekend to the races. There was a tool auction then they got race tickets for going to that. They took Ty with them too. I think it was a long weekend for Lindsey. Today was a nightmare with the time change business. Cooper was so tired, but wouldn't take a nap at my house. Kid will only nap in his dark room at home. Then it was too late to take a nap because it was too close to bed time. Then Lindsey was playing rough with him and ended up giving him a bloody nose! Crazy huh. I think her head met up with his mouth and nose. So she finally took him home to bed. Then Easton started. He has been an angel all day. I don't know what was up with him tonight. Crying and nothing would console him. He is usually good to take a binky from me. But not tonight. I hope they all go home and get some sleep.
I did take the girls to the movies yesterday in Roosevelt. Jamie tended Porter and Mel tended Cooper so they could go enjoy a good chick flick. Cassidy came too. It was fun. They actually had a 4:00 show in Roosevelt. Some of the drill girls showed up with their moms too. I was happy Cassidy wanted to sit with me. It was fun.
Well I guess I am off to bed. Hope you have a great week. Remember who you are! I love you tons, Momsy
My thoughts are that I know that there are a lot of Sisters going home Dec 17th and I think that I need to be here longer than that. Honestly I want to come home a week(ish) early so that I can adjust a tiny bit, go to the dentist, spend some time with you, gather my stuff, move to Logan, adjust to Logan and then go to school without being a nervous wreck because I don't know where anything is and everything is a mess. I think that if I come home before Christmas and be around you all for a long time then move out again, it will be hard for me and I will just make the process of adjusting be drawn out and longer than necessary. I'd rather just start school on the 7th, go to school for a week and a few days then come spend the 4 day weekend with you all, so it will be less of a me adjusting to being around family again, then by the time I get used to that I will be adjusting to being on my own again. and this time not even Lindsey or Megan are in Logan to keep me sane. I want to be in Logan on the 7th, and i also feel like the mission needs me for as long as I can stay.
---after I read the e-mail---
I did get my packages from the mission office, I finally went down there, I have not been to the mission office since MAY. . . that is so long! I could use some fleece lined TIGHTS, not leggings. also my companion wants to try the prepared pantry syrup.
Well, When I get home I will help you, I will be close to a temple, and I am sure I will be missing the Spirit so I'll go to the temple. . . Actually a member of the 70 came to the mission and he told us to make sure our family had a name ready for us to go do sealings for when we get home, so save one for me:)
I do remember Bill, He was such a nice guy, how many siblings did Grandma have? I did write you too, maybe the mail system is just going on the fritz for us. . . Because I sent it!
He told me it would be $200 to change tickets. I will pay for it, I know you and dad have been forking out a lot of money for me in the past 20 years (but especially in the past 3). I feel right about it.
Movies sounds fun, that is really special that Cassidy wanted to still sit by you! Have you seen Meet the Mormons yet? President said I could call you today (monday) So I have to finish my e-mailing then I will call and confirm things.
With Love,
Sister Smith
On Sun, Nov 2, 2014, Christy wrote:
So before I say much about your visit with President Forbes. I want to know your feelings. What did you learn and what thoughts are mulling around in your head? I want you to tell me before the end of my email where I tell you our thoughts.
I am really hoping you got your packages finally from the mission office. It is because I sent them in a padded envelope, not first class or parcel post that they couldn't forward them to you. So we had to wait for someone coming your way to bring them. Awful! I know I am so sorry. But think of all the packages you have gotten recently. (hopefully) I have another one going out soon, so if there is anything you need, please speak now or forever hold your peace.
The conference talk we listened to today was "The Book" one of my very favorite talks. I love how he compares life to a passport and things have to be done in a certain way and in order to get to your destination. Just like baptism and confirmation are stamps in the passport of life to get us back to Heavenly Father. I love that he says family history work should be done by families. I need some help to get all this done. I am seriously thinking I might have to share with the temple system. I don't want our ancestors to have to wait any longer. I do have my favorites, that I have had to hunt for that I feel so close to that I am keeping and some I am handing out to relatives, but I feel bad making them wait and I am sure they don't really care who does the work for them.
I don't know if you remember my mom's brother Bill. They live in Alpine in the big house with the pool table downstairs. We use to have Christmas parties there. Anyway, he died last week. In his sleep, figured maybe had a heart attack. The funeral is this week. Makes me sad for my mom. Now she only has one brother left of family that she knows.
I didn't get any mail this week, so I am really hoping you aren't trying to get back at me for not writing, which I did. Jk. I am sure you are busy.
When I got home from the fhc on wednesday night, I had a message from President Forbes to call. He was funny. "It is not an emergency and I just want to talk about travel arrangements" is how he started out the message. I am glad. I might have freaked out a bit if I didn't know you had a visit with him this week. From what I understand, we would have to buy you a ticket because yours is already purchased. I think it would be the price of a full ticket. I can check if I need to. I am suppose to call President Forbes back when we decide what we are going to do. So dad is thinking you should just come home on the 7th and live and work around here until summer or fall. It seems to be a hassle and I think it messes up companionships if you leave early.That is what Rick said anyway. I know travel during the holidays is hard and expensive. I know Lindsey wrote you an email tonight about things you can busy yourself with. I can definitely put you to work in the Family History Center!!!
I am trying not to be selfish and am praying to know what is best for you. Only you can decide. So what are you thinking? I know it is so hard trying to decide on things like this thru email and not being able to really talk about it. We will support whatever you decide. Just decide then pray to know if it is right. Then let me know what to do.
Dad and Morgan went to Las Vegas this weekend to the races. There was a tool auction then they got race tickets for going to that. They took Ty with them too. I think it was a long weekend for Lindsey. Today was a nightmare with the time change business. Cooper was so tired, but wouldn't take a nap at my house. Kid will only nap in his dark room at home. Then it was too late to take a nap because it was too close to bed time. Then Lindsey was playing rough with him and ended up giving him a bloody nose! Crazy huh. I think her head met up with his mouth and nose. So she finally took him home to bed. Then Easton started. He has been an angel all day. I don't know what was up with him tonight. Crying and nothing would console him. He is usually good to take a binky from me. But not tonight. I hope they all go home and get some sleep.
I did take the girls to the movies yesterday in Roosevelt. Jamie tended Porter and Mel tended Cooper so they could go enjoy a good chick flick. Cassidy came too. It was fun. They actually had a 4:00 show in Roosevelt. Some of the drill girls showed up with their moms too. I was happy Cassidy wanted to sit with me. It was fun.
Well I guess I am off to bed. Hope you have a great week. Remember who you are! I love you tons, Momsy
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