28 December 2010 - Happy New Year and happy changes

Hola Familia!

I feel like I don't have too much to say since we just barely talked for about 44 minutes (oops! overtime). And thanks Dad for the long e-mail even though we did just talk. Mom...where are you? He he. Hope all is well.

The news is that....I never received a call yesterday so I am not training. I'm confused as to what I will be doing, but we shall learn later today. Another good opportunity for me to trust the Lord and follow His will not mine. I know He knows better than I do.

I love you all very much! The baptism was great. Hna Mercado is SO happy and Familia Gomez as well. We started pretty late as one set of elders didn't find a ride and arrived very late. One of them baptized Hna M and she didn't have confidence in anyone else...so we waited. All went just fine. Hna M and I sang "When I am Baptized" and I think it was great. It was so neat to have 9 different people in white! And we filled up the RS room again. Hurray that the members came out to support on Christmas Day. Members are just absolutely crucial. I took bunches of pics. I was also able to purchase a triple combination for Hna Mercado and I gave it to her last night but we had to leave quickly so I don't know what she thought. I think she'll be happy. Phew. I will definitely send you pictures - next week. I have to scramble and pack this week :)

Christmas was good. We had a super hurried dinner with Fam Lule/Aguilar then we headed off to the baptism. Hna Mercado really liked the scarf and Desteny too. Hna M is grateful for the socks and has worn them nearly everyday. She doesn't have slippers so it was perfect!! I wore one of my outfits Christmas Day (as I told you) and was sure to get pictures of it.

I also have LOTS of pictures with members from Sat, Sun, and Mon. (I just love the x3 self-timer!) Again, some will be sent next week. I'm really going to miss the members here. I'm excited to come back and visit. We have lots of "mi casa es tu casa" family :) And I've said our home is open when they are in Utah (just a head's up). Hno Munguia did receive the family card and said thanks. And I've been very grateful for the business cards. Thanks again, Dad! They make it easy. Oh mum, the candy cane cookies were broken but perfectly so. They are in 2 and 3 bite pieces.

Well, as for investigators. I'm having a hard time saying goodbye. Yesterday was a really good day. Only 1 of the 6 scheduled lessons didn't work out. That's incredible! And a few drop-in visits. It seems I will be a little missed around here too.

Way exciting thing happened at the end of church: Gustavo showed up! We talked to him briefly in the street and on the phone twice, gave him a map. And he showed! (with about 2 minutes left) I have heard so many times: "give me the direction and I'll come visit the church." And it has never happened until now. Some members hepled us out and we taught him a lesson. I have high hopes and will anxiously await news from Hna M about his progress.

Part of the Christmas party was to write out testimonies in copies of the Book of Mormon then wrap them and give them out on Christmas Day. We stopped by Hno Milian at the end of the night and gave him one. I think it is a fabulous way to help people better understand just how precious this book is that we are giving them. He said he really appreciated it. And last night we found out he has started reading it! He is doing pretty well. They were at church again. A few obstacles still in the path but I'm excited for them.

Hno Lule and Hna Aguilar are anxious for their wedding and baptism. They went and took pictures for their invitations :) They said last night that if I can't find a ride to attend the baptism then I should call them and they will come and get me :) Yeah, I'm going to work hard to be there. Hna Aguilar is giving us a ride to the meeting today which should be fun. Oh and dinner was tamales and potatoes (both super delicious) and beans and pasta salad and tres leches (fabulous!) and cheesecake. Yep, plenty of food.

Missionary life is still just great. I can't believe I do return home so soon. Man, time moves quickly. But the gospel is always true! That's just the bestest. I love you all so much. I'm so grateful for your support as I serve the Lord. I have loved sharing 3 Nephi 5:13 as I've taken my leave of people (very Spanish-influenced phrase). I am a disciple of Jesus Christ and I've been called to declare this news so we can all achieve eternal life. And as members, we are ALL disciples and we have ALL been called. So get out there and share the fabulous news!!

Glad all is well with all of you and you are continuing busy! I'm going to be busy soon adapting to a new situation, new companion, new investigators, and new members. Hurrah! Should be fun and a little stressful. Gotta run now so I can have clean clothes before I go. Love you all! Be safe this new year.

Love,

Hermana Green

21 December 2010 - What's the home phone number?

Hola familia!

Muy feliz navidad! Que bueno, no? Hemos tenido bastante lluvia en estas dias. Mas que CA ha tenido en 5 anos. Es muy bueno pero...ya.

So we've had lots of rain the past few days. I told Hna M the other day that I actually like it because it shows people that Mormon missionaries don't stop! This is the truth and will go forth no matter what. !Oh si!

Nice one, Mom, on giving me the home phone number again. Just because I had problems last year.... I'll actually be calling you guys at 2:30 pm CA time. We had to move up the baptism time so everything else as well. And I'll call from a cell phone then you can call me back. Ok? I don't know the phone number at this moment. Hna Aguilar is excited to have us over. And Desteny too. We had FHE with them last night and Hno Lule conducted it super well and had the scripture thought. It was pretty exciting. He studied :) They are doing well. Came through for us at the baptism Friday night so we could stay there and support the elders and a family. 2 young boys (cousins) were baptized on the b-day of their Grandma who is inactive. Pretty exciting.

The best news : we're having a baptism on Christmas Day!!!! Hna Mercado is solid and excited. I just love her. She cracks me up. Oh man. I will tell her "hi" from you, Dad. I think it'll make her smile. And the elders have a family of 4 being baptized. So we've had some fun organizing things. All 6 of us missionaries will be there and we'll have 8 different people in white. Phew! All around the mission there will be lots of baptisms on Christmas Day according to Pres. Cook (and he should know). I'm excited about it. I'll definitely take pictures.

The baptism this past Sat of Hna Lara AND her 2 kids was awesome. They were all really happy. And 1 of her 2 other sons was there and told the elders afterward "this is real" and agreed to an appointment. Sa-weet!! Just love it. Decided the only present I need as a missionary is a baptism. That's it. That is enough of a reward for all the hard work, sweat, tears, and joys. It's the bestest. They didn't have a camera so I tried to take lots of pics. I'll make 'em some prints and a cd today. Pres. and Sis. Cook came which was fabulous. I walked out of the bathroom and right into Sis. Cook's open arms. She knows I'm always good for 4 or 5 hugs when I see her :)

The concert is tonight and it should be GREAT. I'm super excited. I told one of the directors they can put me to work. They said I'll be on stage left to help get people on stage on time. Hna M says I'll be good at that. And I can pull out my rusty teacher/regulator skills to tell everyone to be quiet backstage. Ha ha. Pres. & Sis. Cook are coming and Familia Lule with Hna Mercado. Super faublous.

Familia Garcia is great and we just love them. They came to church on Sun!! And they all had good experiences. The kids came and sat by Hna M and I. They give us hugs each time we visit. Love 'em! Realized last night that he actually isn't an investigator because is only 8 yrs old and both his parents are members. Oops. But we'll keep visiting and helping him reach his baptismal date. He's excited about it.

Oh yeah. Ward party Sat night was pretty great. We spent a good chunk of time there. And we did sing a song. With the help of one American sister and 2 little girls - Kari and Marta. Remember those names? The daughters of Hna Robbins. They were so excited to sing and help us. They also sang with the primary kids. They're cuties. Everytime we visit they come running to greet us.

Phew. Many exciting things to share. So glad that you arrived home safely from the wedding. And thank you for taking lots of pictures. I am excited to see what it was all like.

So if JJ had 3 Christmases away from home, I'm on #4. No? Because we had Thailand, then I had Taiwan, and now 2 in the mission. How crazy is that? It's true that time passes really quickly. Like I'm almost out of it right now.... I know what the kids are getting for Christmas...na na na. And I'm not gonna say a word. Except that I think they'll love it. Way to go, M & D! And exciting news about the bathroom updates. Woo hoo.

I was wondering why our ward mission leader asked for our home addresses. That is a super good idea. We're actually having a meeting with him and all the missionaries this Thurs. We don't know what for. Now I'm wondering if they'll do something for Christmas. In ward council this week we talked about how we'll have 8 baptisms in Dec after the ones on the 25th. How rockin' is that? This ward is well-known for its high numbers. We'll end the year with 30, I believe. That is super awesome!! Just love it. Just love helping people know the truth and seeing all the fabulous changes in their lives. The gospel is truly the only thing that can make us happy now and forever.

I love you guys so much! Mormon 8:38-39 called my attention today (yes, very Spanglish grammar).

We need to have an eternal perspective and fill our lives with frienships and people, not things. To all that are reading --

THANK YOU!! for being the wonderful people that have filled my life with meaning and joy. Love you all LOTS.

Christmas time is just the best. I love it. And it was another great week as a missionary. This one looks to be even better with all the celebrations for Christ's birth, a combined baptism, rain, good food at the mission party and with Familia Lule, oh and the phone call with you guys. And transfer calls that same day. Crazy fun!

Love ya!

Hermana Green

Oh yeah MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

14 December 2010 - I love to see the temple...I went inside today

Familia

Yep! The temple is just absolutely amazing. And we were there soaking it up this morning. And we got a ride with Hna Montoya who just loves to talk and she shared the story of her conversion and her philosophies on her son who has been going inactive all our time here. It was fascinating and great. She is super strong in the gospel so I love hearing her explain her ideas. She is actually the gospel doctrine teacher and all the students are appreciative of her. As said in general conference: it's all about the attitude of the teacher.

Missionary life this week is really great. We continue to have success and struggles. And I haven't scratched any more cars! Ha ha. yeah I really didn't want to share that story until later...oh well.

Hey guess what - I just love you guys so much! Thanks for the great e-mails, Mum & Dad with the updates on the family, neighborhood, and friends. I'm excited for all the great things that are happening. We probably won't bother with buying any decorations even though I know we can. No worries. I don't feel a need for it. We enjoy all the trees that other people have. I've seen some fun decorations. And crazy that my paper Christmas tree was 2 years ago now. Gah. Where did the time go?

I feel like I am FINALLY figuring out how to be a missionary - in thought and in action. Sad it takes so long! But I'm gonna work to live it up and give my all in this last bit of time.

Investigator updates: Hna Mercado was at church and in yesterday's lesson she shared an experience in which she felt a huge difference in where she used to be before learning and where she is now. So she prays not to regress back and has decided firmly to be baptized. HURRAY! she'll be interviewed on Friday and hopefully baptized on Christmas Day with another family of 4 the elders are teaching and perhaps her daughter. It's pretty fabulous. And Hno Montiel was confirmed on Sunday. He's happy and appreciative. I bought a frame today so I can give him a picture of us at the baptism. I think he'll really like it. It's basically the only Christmas present I'm giving - oops. I've thought of doing something else but never decided on something and now the time is gone. Next week we'll be rushed as we have to be in Escondido all night long for Hna M's performance in the Christmas concert. It's gonna be great! Hno Lule and Hna Aguilar and Desteny are going to bring Hna Mercado and enjoy it thoroughly. Oh and on Fri Dec 24 we're having a mission-wide Christmas party for 4 hours. How crazy is that?! Definitely a different leadership than last year. I love it because my two presidents are so very different (their wives too) and I work well with, love, and respect all of them. Completely.

So about the calls. We are planning the baptism for 7 pm and then we'll probably have dinner around 4 pm and the calls around 3 pm CA time. Is that still ok? I'll just call the home phone. Hno Lule and Hna Aguilar are great and should be fine with it all. She is excited to make us a Mexican/American dinner. Tamales and ham and potatoes. And Hna Merrill requested tres leches cake. It's just so good!

Another exciting thing: Hna Dolores Lara whom we taught for a time is getting baptized this Sat. We were invited and given assignments :) Hna M will sing and I'll say a prayer. Sweet stuff. She just thrived more in the English ward. Partly because the RS pres is her fellowshipper and is so excited to help her. I'm glad she has progressed and will be baptized. I'll be sure to get pics of it. The ward Christmas party is Sat night and we might swing by for it. I love being with the members and investigators! I feel like Hna Mercado is a member already. She signs up to bring food to everything, wants to be early to meetings, and yeah. It's pretty great.

What else, what else. Hno Lule and Hna Aguilar are planning well for the wedding and baptism. they are excited. Hey, in a year we could all come back when they go to the temple to be sealed! That is the huge motivating factor for the Hna and has been the whole time. It's one of the most amazing things we have. Heavenly Father loves us so much! And I love the idea of going to Thailand next summer. Man, I'm gonna be busy traveling and I just don't know what to do about where to live and work. The world is seriously open to me! But I don't need to worry about that now :)

Give all my love and support to Cara and her family. Glad you can go for the wedding....I thought about sending a note but I don't think it happened. Oops. Take a few good pics and send 'em to me later, please.

Let's see - little miracles this week. Hna M had a rough time of it yesterday afternoon but then in the evening we went forth and had some good lessons. She's a tough one and I'm grateful for her desire to continue and serve and succeed.

Also, we had a good discussion about asking for referrals in district meeting yesterday morning and I decided to run with it, literally. I remembered to ask in all 4 of our visits. Sweet! And we semi received 2 referrals. Oh si! And then Hno Lule said we should teach everyone in their neighborhood and they invited us to the neighborhood party this Fri. ha ha. We just might swing by. Probably will be a good way to get to know the neighbors even more. And we have a special invite :)

Oh - Hna M uses the scarves we gave her practically every day. I think she REALLY likes the green one. Props to Dad and the fam!

The scripture for this week is in 3 Nephi 18:3. The people worked ALL night to let everyone know that the Savior had been there teaching and He was going to return the next day. That's basically what we're all about, no? The Savior has come and will come again. We're working hard so everyone is prepared for it. And so we can have all the marvelous blessings our Heavenly Father has for us. I just love the gospel. I love being a missionary. I know God lives, loves, and guides us. I know that I'm where I'm supposed to be and I've learned so much! Thank you for all your love and support. Merry, merry Christmas. Keep working hard. And keep supporting missionary work with all you've got. I was struck again by the quote by Joseph Smith: after all that has been said and done the most important duty is to preach the gospel. So get out there and preach!

Love ya all tons and tons.

Love,

Hermana Green

5 December 2010 - Pictures

Las Hermanas Merrill y Green with

La Familia Ortega

Las Hermanas Merrill y Green

President & Sister Haynie

La Familia Montiel

Hno Alegandro Montiel, Sr. was baptized

by his son, Hno Alejandro Montiel, Jr.

Allen Montiel, Grandson

7 December 2010 - Un bautismo...de exito!

Hola Familia,

Si. Tuvimos un bautismo este domingo y fue muy muy bueno. Sorry. Time to switch languages! And I guess I don't always do it perfectly since Dad picked up on a slip. What can I say? My brain does think more in Spanish and then I impose the rules on English. It doesn't always work out, but it makes for some laughs.

So Hno Montiel was baptized on Sunday and it was a great service. The speakers were a touch long winded. Sigh. Everyone was touched by Hna M and I singing "Jesus es mi luz" even with my cold-impeded voice. And although it took three tries to comply with the "inmersion" part of baptism, all is well! he he. He just wasn't quite all the way under the water. Part of it is that his son baptized him and it was his first time baptizing anyone. The bishop did a great job of coaching them through it. The trick is for the person to just act like they're sitting down. Oh and we had tons of food afterward. We invited lots of people to bring a little treat. And Hna M made pudding pies and I made cookies (so sad as they were Tollhouse recipe but came out strange. We're blaming the oven. Oh and that I melted the butter. oops!) An inactive family we've worked lots with was there. And another inactive member. Hurray! And he had quite a bit of family. The best surprise was that the Familia Perez from Oceanside 5th ward showed up. I was surprised to see them. Then they told me Hna Perez is the cousin of Hno Montiel, Sr. Crazy small world! They were super happy. And Hno Montiel was super happy. He gave me so many toothy smiles - and he doesn't give those often. Things are great.

Yep yep. It's a warm-all-over kind of feeling to know we've helped people "open the door to salvation." And it's so rewarding when people make good decisions that we know will bless their lives forever.

More happy news is that Hno Lule and Hna Aguilar decided dates for their wedding and baptism - January! And we have a handful of other dates in January. Including young Kevin. We still have work to do as they did not make it to church this week. But we talked to the whole family and they all set goals to help Kevin achieve this big goal. And Hno Milian was at church again and the baptism. Things are going pretty well with him. We have a good relationship among the four of us. And his girlfriend seems super willing to come back into activity. Hurray.

We met with Familia Garcia again last night and made the mom cry very happy tears when her son said he wants to prepare himself for baptism. Hurray! He's 8. They have a daughter who is 7 and she really wants to be baptized too. They don't understand too much but they are quick and willing to learn. And the mom has a strong testimony. The dad wasn't there for the lesson but he is a member so it should be pretty easy to get him on board.

What other great things can I share.... Christmas calls are coming up. We'll go to the Lule/Aguilar home for calls and dinner :) So around 4 or 5 pm CA time. Will that work okay for you? And will it be cheapest to use their cell phones to call your cell phones? Just let me know.

We had breakfast at the Haynie household again this morning. It was delicious. And we walked away with a recipe for sour cream pancakes. They're good! I snapped a picture before leaving so you'll get to see the Stake Pres and his wife in the next batch. Glad the pics and CD arrived safely. Yes, I used a red car to scratch a blue truck. I was so upset with myself. Pres. Cook was great. His first question after asking about our health was "are you smiling?" I wasn't. But eventually I did. Not too big of a deal. I think the other car owner never called about the damage even though we left all the info. The basics: I got to close to them when pulling forward into a parallel park spot. Gr.

So great to hear the exciting news about JJ. That's crazy he got the type of truck I've been thinking about! ha ha. I'm glad you are all enjoying it. I'm sure I will, too. But I don't want to think about buying a car. Yuck. I like just worrying about stretching my monthly budget and no other money concerns. PS Dad please stop mentioning just how much time I have left. I really am trying to forget and just work hard. Ok, I'll say I go home next year. But it does't directly answer the question: how much time do you have in the mission.

Super exciting news about Lhing and Khanh!! Hurray. And I'll actually get to be part of the celebrations. Will she stay in Thailand for the whole pregnancy? Looks like I have tons of places around the world to visit next summer. Yikes.

Our apartment has absolutely no Christmas decorations. I thought about making a little paper Christmas tree like I did last year in Thailand. I don't know if it is actually really worth my time. Better to write a letter to someone :) (And check on the suggestion, Mum. I already completed it before I read it!) We both received packages today which was fun. We had to pick them up at the post office. I hope that doesn't happen on the next one! I had to wait a whole week...and it's the package with the coat. sigh. I actually received my first gift last night: Hna Aguilar gave me a pair of gloves because I've lost mine. They are super warm and I'm happy with them.

Well. As all is well there and all is well here I'll just finish up. I love you all so much and am super grateful for your help, love, and support! I know that God is our loving Heavenly Father and He listens to and answers our prayers. I know that He sent His Beloved Son Jesus Christ to our earth to save all humankind. Pres. Haynie talked about how we know that the Savior's Atonement applies to all the people in all the worlds they've created. How incredible! I love this time of year to re-focus in Him and His humble birth. We've done okay at giving thanks and it is a good tradition. Thanks for reminding me! I love you. I'm so grateful that we can all work hard individually and collectively to be an eternal family after this life. I love you all!!! Keep being great examples and witnesses of the Savior.

Love,

Hermana Green

30 November 2010 - Baptisms!

Hola Familia,

Yeah, yeah. I speak Spanglish. What can I say? Yes, I feel my ability to speak has improved. I try to think in Spanish as well. It's fun. Pres. Cook says my Spanish is good and investigators have said the same. That's great because they need to be able to understand us in order to really be converted and learn and live the gospel.

I love the gospel! It really is just the greatest news. And I love you, my family. And I love all the people I am working with and teaching - my new family.

So exciting news: Hno Montiel will be baptized this Sunday at 7 pm! And his son who was baptized in May should be able to perform the ordinance. Super awesome. His son joined us for the FHE last night which was pretty great. He is very grateful we've helped his dad. We're grateful for his example. He took his dad to church with him for months before we were called in.

I received a letter from Hna Goff (my former companion in Mission Viejo) and she said that yes, Hna Zehuancatl was baptized. ! And also Luis - the son of Elizabeth Nunez. Remember them? Yeah, super awesome. Hna Nunez wants to be baptized in this month which is awesome. Her husband Hno Pacheco is currently in Mexico so yeah...don't know about him. Hna Goff says they (these 2 hermanas) still talk about me and I have to go back and visit after the mission. For sure!! I'm excited for that. And Hna Z said I could stay in her house in Mexico when I go visit there...sweet!

I did receive a letter from JJ today. Muchas gracias hermano. Fue muy bueno escuchar de usted. Y gracias por escribir todo en espanol. Cuando regreso voy a aprender hablar en tu con usted. Esta bien? Ahora, prefiero usar "usted form" porque es lo que debemos usar casi siempre..

And I received another letter from Shantaye which was great. And the announcement for Cara. Yeah! It was the most beat up envelope I've ever received in the mail - ripped and crinkled. So sad! I wonder if it got stuck in the machines.... Oh well. It still works okay.

Anyway. This week was pretty good. Not super great and not bad. Exciting as we prepped Hno Montiel for his interview. And Hna Mercado is still well but has a family crisis currently so we're a little on hold and praying lots for her. We have a new family we are working with and they seem pretty promising. Hno Milian and his girlfriend Hna Martinez. She is a less-active member with a pretty strong testimony. And they have a little 7-month old boy. She seems quite excited to help him learn. And he seems willing which rocks. They were at church this Sunday which was great.

What else, what else. I am still sick. I felt I was nearly better then last night I got smacked with a really sore throat. And I have a chest cough now. One surprised me in the middle of the prayer this morning - it was pretty funny. Kind of like a sunder thunder burst. Yikes. I do have some Vicks that was in the cupboard. And since when do I have a red pea coat?! I have no idea what coat you sent me. I had a grey trouser dress coat that was my second one in college. I was pretty sure that still lived, but I don't remember.

I can't believe I have such short time left. Not cool! I have reverted to saying "one year" when asked how much time I have in the mission :) It's true, right? I don't like when they ask the flip question of how much time left, but what can ya do?

One scripture I found this week that really struck me was in 3 Nefi 5:13. Mormon says he is a disciple of Christ and has been called to declare the word to all so they can achieve eternal life. (Or something like that. I know it better in Spanish since that's how I read it.) It struck me that that is me! Well, all of us as members. But espeically it's true for me as a full-time missionary. THANK YOU for all your love and support throughout this whole time. You guys are just the bestest!! Love you tons.

We did some Thanksgiving caroling this week which was pretty fun. Nothing really came of it but now we have ideas and experience so we can do better during Christmas time. Should be such fun! I love this time of year because I feel even more love - coming from nearly everyone. And I feel like it came super fast. So many people have their trees up and I feel like they shouldn't yet. But I guess you guys do too. Ah well. So it is.

Oh yeah. Thanksgiving was pretty good. Not many lessons but some! And we gave some people muffins. Te he. We had dinner with the Atempa Family. It was tasty. And fun. They are a great family. Tonight we'll work with them to set a goal they can all achieve so Kevin can be baptized. Hurray!

I have done the before-dinner activity with two dinners then I completely forgot. I'm sorry! I will work to remember again. It was a good experience the other two times. Helped me learn the attribute of patience because I was anxious to start eating! We have a limited time for dinner and often they don't start setting the table until we arrive...sigh. But it was good. We did it on Wed and Thu night.

MUM- received the package with the face cream. Thank you! It was crazy expensive. And why are there 2? I won't be able to fully use even one in the time I have left. Oh and the box was huge and I was surprised since I only expected the cream. Thanks for the other treats. They were perfect. Hna M was really excited, too.

Um, I can't think of anything else at the moment. I hope all is still well. Thanks again for the love and support! You all rock. I love you and know God loves each of us. I know Jesus Christ lives and I love that I know that and can share it with other people. How incredible that He knows how we feel and is there to support and strengthen us.

Love you!

Love,

Hermana Green

23 November 2010 - I'm grateful for . . .

I'm grateful for a WONDERFUL FAMILY!

That's you. I really am. I love you all very much. Being a missionary is incredible and hard. And I am so grateful to have your love and support through every moment.

This week was pretty good. Still sick but not hugely so. I can't stay warm which isn't good. Mom, I have my cute grey pea coat that is probably fine. I'm debating on whether or not I want it sent to me. I'm thinking yes....hopefully it can smush into a small box and not cost too much. Right now I mostly have an icky chest cough that comes very sporadically. Boo hoo.

Yesterday we had a zone conference! It was pretty great. And Sunday Elder Clayton was at our sacrament meeting which was pretty great also. Hna Merrill was asked to sing at the last moment (that morning in ward council) and she did a great job. She sang "Bella Sion" which is one she sings well and often for me :) For the Christmas program she will sing "This is the Christ". She just used it to 'tryout' and demonstrate her ability for the directors but they liked it lots and said they'd use it. Pretty neat. Quite a few people are excited about the program. I announced it again in RS because they were talking about Hna M's incredible ability. Hurray. They are excited now too.

Elder Clayton's visit was pretty great. Hna M and I both noticed the eyes. That is what sets apart the general authorities. I noticed it in him and in Elder Zwick. A purity and brillancy is one way to describe them. Well, it's just neat. And the San Diego temple president and his wife attended and spoke as well. Pres Olson continues to say "The temple is true." And it is! He talked of how it was the crowning revelation in the Restoration. So fabulous. Mum and JJ - how was your visit to the temple? When are you going back?! Go again soon for me :)

As for Thanksgiving - we will be dining with the Atempa family. Hurray! They are pretty great. Hna M plans to make some banana chocolate chip muffins today to take as our contribution. And we've actually already had 3 turkey dinners. These past 3 days. One at the fun ward party on Sat. One with Hna Enciso (leftover turkey from Sat. party actually) and one lunch yesterday from the Stake RS presidency at zone conference. Each was a little different. And delicious. Also, we thought it would be hard to have lessons on Thurs but it is actually looking really good. Hurray!

Some of our investigators are doing quite well. Hno Montiel is planning to be interviewed this weekend so he can be baptized next weekend. Woo hoo! (He's the ice cream man). We met his son at the Sat. activity and he is pretty great. The son and granddaughter were baptized in May. The daughter-in-law and grandson are waiting until the grandson's eighth birthday next June. We've had some neat visits with Hno Montiel and Familia Enciso. I love when everyone can work together to learn and teach about the gospel. Last night the FHE was about The Book of Mormon.

In zone conference yesterday we talked about the importance of planning by the spirit. It makes a huge difference in the results we have. So now we get to work on applying these teachings. We keep talking of how this is a lifelong skill and we will be so much more productive if we learn it well now. What a blessing to serve a mission! It was great to get some hugs from Sis. Cook. I told her she reminds me of you, Mum. And it's true. Similar hairstyles, kind of, and facial features. It makes me happy :) And Pres. Cook didn't serve in JJ's same mission. Like Dad said it was a while ago and so it was a much larger mission - Mexico West. We received a little more info about how we can improve our Spanish. We speak it all the time now unless we have to use English. We are working to be even better so we can double the number of baptisms in our mission!! At zone conference I saw 2 elders with whom I served in Mission Viejo and that was pretty exciting. I still haven't heard anything about Hna Zehuancatl's baptism. I asked Pres. but he didn't attend that one. I'll keep waiting for letters. And yes Mum they forward the letters to us after they arrive at the mission office. It takes about 2 days more to receive them. I received a letter from Lacy so thanks for passing the message to her through Facebook.

What other great things happened this week? Oh! We found a less-active family that we met our very first night here and have looked for a few times and couldn't find. Hurray. They are pretty great. We sang Joseph's First Vision and the mom shared how she loves that song and it reminds her of first learning of the truth. FHE next week. (Have I mentioned that we love FHE?) We had a great FHE last night with Hno Lule and Hna Aguilar and Desteny. We taught the lesson of the Restoration again. Hna Aguilar shared her testimony and Desteny her knowledge. She is smart. It is great to be part of spiritual growth with wonderful people.

Hna Mercado invited her son to the Sat. evening activity and he attended. It was pretty great! We feel with time that he will gladly accept the gospel message as well. He and his wife are super nice and receive us well in their home (Hna Mercado lives with them). It was exciting to have him inside the church with members. Hna Mercado is still pretty fabulous. She loves us and we love her. We're still working to make the Christmas baptism but it should be fine. And what fun! A baptism on Christmas. tehe.

The green tea kitkats were interesting. I thought they were normal with different packaging. I was very surprised to have a different flavor in my mouth :) I haven't asked Hna M's opinion. Don't know if she's tried them yet. I'm pretty sure I wrote Aunt Theo last week or the week before. I'll check again today. I hope you have a great turkey dinner with her! Hehe. She is just fabulous.

It seems crazy to me that I have been in the mission for quite some time. I've already had a Thanksgiving out here. I feel like I have so much more to learn and improve before I can be done. Guess I'd better get crankin' :D

Hey guess what -- I'm grateful for my wonderful family!! I love you all very much. Keep being obedient to the gospel because that, with the Atonement, is how we will receive eternal life and live happily together as a family forever. What greater wish could we have?!

I love you. I know God is our Father and watches over and cares for us. I know Jesus Christ lives and is our advocate with the Father. I am grateful to continually study about the Atonement to better understand it and be happier. I love you all! Take care. (And be awesome member missionaries!)

Love,

Hermana Green

16 November 2010 - Do I stay or do I go?

Hola Familia,

The verdict is that I stay here in San Marcos and Escondido. Should be good. We're excited about helping many friends enter the waters of baptism soon. The ward council didn't really like the idea of a baptism on Christmas Day but said it should be possible. We just have to keep working with Hna Mercado so she is all ready to go. She is still a touch hesitant, but still pretty great. She loves us lots which is just fascinating. It's interesting how we come to love people so much as we serve, love, and teach them!

I am doing well even though have borderline sickness. Ugh. We're having hot days and cold nights. I'm thinking about buying a coat because the cold has just begun and I'm really truly cold - even with three jackets. Yikes. THANKS mum & Shantaye for the purse package. It made me so happy yesterday morning. The purse seems to work out okay. Not quite as big as I'd like. And thanks for sending all these packages. Sorry I've asked for so many little things lately. Just count the postage on my Christmas budget :) I'll probably receive the journal package tomorrow as it'll be handed out today at the transfer meeting. AND Hna M was excited for the treats for her. Great job in sending duplicates! I really liked the foreign kitkats. Te he.

Well, well. This week we were able to meet and teach a wonderful new sister, Hna Z Ortega. She is pretty great. Then later we dined with her neighbor who is an inactive member (and actually loves us already because gave us scarves before we left thinking one of us would transfer and not see her again. Precious.). Anyway, her neighbor said Hna Ortega talked about how she was grateful and really enjoyed our meeting. We stopped by last night and were able to meet her husband and can hopefully teach both of them tonight. And she wants to feed us already. Sweet! Love it.

The leadership training meeting was pretty great. Then we went to ward council on Sunday and I realized it takes time to apply new teachings :) We continue thinking how we can better help in such a situation. We have excitement this coming Sunday - Elder L. Whitney Clayton is visiting the ward!! And so they told us all to be there at 10:30 am. Yep, Latinos are famous for being late. It should be a great experience. And this past week was the primary program which was so great. I loved how the children had so much enthusiasm when singing "Siga al profeta" (follow the prophet) and "El vive si!" (Yes, He lives). We also had a great lesson on baptism in Relief Society. Hurrah.

Hna Merrill was volunteered by our mission president to sing in the stake's annual Christmas event. It's held at the Escondido Center for the Arts and sells out all the 1200 tickets each year. Sa-weet. We visited the coordinators today and she "auditioned". They were impressed and she'll be the final piece. !Oh si! So now we get to hype that up and see how many investigators we can get there. It'll be Tues 21 Dec. Yeah. We only have a little proselyting time on Tues night and so that Tues will be interesting as all the time will be taken by the performance and prep. We'll see. Hna M is grateful for an opportunity to use her singing talent. She surely loves to sing. I've learned that the best thing to do if she's having a rough moment is sing.

We had some success this weekend - an inactive member and her non-member boyfriend and their cute little baby came to church on Sunday after our Sat. afternoon visit. Sweet!! It was pretty great. And our investigator Hno Alferez is doing pretty well. He listens to and reads the Book of Mormon at the same time. It helps him focus and understand which is great. I'm grateful for all the amazing technology we have!

Today in my studies I was struck by Helaman 5:12 in thinking of how it doesn't say we won't have problems when we're faithful and built upon the rock of Christ. It says we'll have strength and ability to withstand and overcome WHEN ALL of Satan's forces are coming at us. Wow. What awesome promises and strength! I love the gospel and I love striving to live it as I teach it to all the great people here in this area.

THANK YOU for all your love and support. And that everyone is well and flourishing. Yes, Pres. Cook knows Spanish very well. He served in the Mexico West Mission. We were talking to him one day and he got really excited when a word came back to his memory. Te he.

Love you all super much! Thanks for the love and support. It wouldn't be possible without you. Keep on being awesome.

Love,

Hna Green

9 November 2010 - Todo en espanol

Hola Familia!

Recibimos un text en esta semana diciendo que tenemos que hacer todo en espanol. Como si fueramos en una mision de espanol. Que bueno!

Yep, know you can't all read that. Maybe most of you can catch the gist. We received instruction this week to do everything in Spanish. Study, letters to President Cook, everything. So it feels off to write you in English and write in my journal in English. But it's all good! :D

We had some neat things this week. Hna Mercado semi out of the blue told us she is thinking of being baptized on 25 December. Ha ha! We were pretty surprised and excited. She still wants to work some things out and feel completely ready. All those times we invited her she told us she would tell us when she was ready. And she surely did. Te he. I likely won't be around, but that's okay (we haven't mentioned that to her yet. I don't know how she would respond.) And we were able to eat dinner with her which was great. She didn't put any chilis in it because of my weak stomach (Did I tell you I had one really bad night and think it was because of spicy food earlier in the day? Yeah. Now I just say I don't eat picoso (spicy?) food. People laugh but are accommodating. Hna Merrill is learning to enjoy chilis. She eats them plain even.)

Yep. And then we had stake conference this week. 2 investigators there Sat. night and 2 there Sunday. Hurray! Pres & Sis Cook spoke which was super great. They did it together and talked of how we need to think about, pray about, and talk about missionary work. And be ready to receive and follow the Spirit's guidance. They gave examples from their lives. I just love them! And again I received a big hug from Sis. Cook. I've asked for a few hugs lately explaining that I need them from the Hermanas around me because my mum isn't here :) So don't you worry! And you can go hug Shantaye to receive your hug from me ;)

The weather is being crazy here. Reminds me of Utah. Hot one day and cold the next. But we continue forth. Our ice cream man investigator is still doing well but doesn't feel ready for baptism. We are working to understand just what else he needs. He he. He feels like my grandpa and it's pretty great. He is very willing to help. He even joined other hermanos in cleaning the church building last week. So great.

Hmm... I know that other things happened that I could share but I am struggling to remember them at this moment. Hna Merrill and I are working to improve because we feel our teaching is lacking and that our investigators deserve better. We taught a lot this week which was pretty neat. One older gentleman we talked to this week said "I'm sorry to say it but I think you two are going to heaven." The first response that came out of my mouth was "That's what we're working for!" He he. And so it is. Along with trying to help all those around us know how they can arrive there too. I love you all and know that we have the fulness of the truth. What a great blessing indeed. I know that Jesus Christ is our Savior and Redeemer. He loves us and cries when we cries. He supports us in our righteous actions and expects us to do our very best. Elder Zwick talked about how Heavenly Father expects constant improvement. So we don't have to get down on ourselves when we don't do great. We recognize what went wrong, make goals and plans to improve and continue forth with our heads held high.

We too have the opportunity to attend the leadership training meeting because Pres Cook wants us to know how things should go in ward council. Good to hear everything is busy and great back at home. I love you all so much and am so grateful for all your love and support!

THANK YOU THANK YOU for the package. It made me so happy. The new shoes are basically broken in now. We've talked lots of gratitude recently because the stake presidency talked of that in Stake Conference this week. And a few times when we've said things we are grateful for I have said my new shoes. I LOVED the little treats and you did it perfectly by sending two of everything. Hna Merill was grateful too. Yes, we got our flu shots. No I don't love them. And yes it cost $30. Oh well. The church wants us to be healthy and strong to do the Lord's work.

PS Have I mentioned how I love FHE. Because I do! We had a good one with Desteny and her parents last night. She actually asked "doesn't it make you sad when people say they don't have time?" Oh how perceptive she is! It often makes me quite sad. She tried to show us a neat science trick, but it just sent water all over the place. It was super cute to see her laughing and laughing. She reminded me again of Shantaye. And speaking of, way to go on the volleyball mis chicas! I want to play volleyball again. Mom, do I qualify for the woman's bracket now? I'd probably be right there with you in soreness. I'm relatively fit in some ways but probably not in volleyball ways :) Chez, thanks for the great letter. Made me so happy. I think you and Shantaye have been my most faithful writers my entire mission. You rock! I'd give you a gold star but you don't really need it. You can pat yourselves on the back.

Kevin and his family were at church this week which was super great. Well, not his dad because he works. Tonight we'll have an FHE with them which should be super great! We're still waiting on the baptismal date, but it'll happen. We are teaching a young single adult hermana and it is fun how when we begin our lessons with a song a bunch of her little cousins come into the room. Yeah for the power of singing in bringing the children! Actually, we've started singing before we eat dinner with members because then we use the time well and are actually able to share something with them. It is fun. Last night I felt like I was working for my food :) I sing, you put a little food in my hand and I go to another house. No, not really. Hna Pena came through for us amazingly on Sat. when we showed up to eat with her sister's family (they live together in one house) and her sister wasn't there. I asked for and received a quesadilla. Yum.

We had a good lesson in the church on Friday with a very smart investigator, Hno Suarez. He's from Colombia. But he's very busy and can only meet about every 1.5 weeks. Not ideal. It was great to be inside the church with two members. And we talked of church meetings and what it's like. I think he will attend church soon. We hope so!

Bueno, no puedo pensar en algo mas. (Can't think of anything else.) Next week we'll know if I stay or go. Dun dun dun!

Scripture: Mosiah 16:9 Jesus Christ is the light of life. Just as I mentioned before, I know that we can avoid being in darkness and confusion as we follow Him and His perfect example. I'm so grateful for the knowledge I have. And the scriptures that teach us of Him. I love the Book of Mormon and still feel limited in my ability to explain the amazingness of this book to people on the street. They just often don't understand!

Love you all so much. This week, I invite you to work on being more grateful. That's what I'm doing here in Southern Cali.

Love,

Hermana Verde

2 November 2010 0 One of the best letters ever . . .

Hola Familia!

It's always funny the delay in our sharing moments. You respond to last last week's events and I'm struggling to remember al lthat happened just last week so I can share it with you. But am SO grateful for the opportunity to e-mail you. And I'm grateful for your prompt responses.

So one of the best letters I've ever received was yesterday from my former companion Hna Goff who is still serving in Mission Viejo 5th Ward up in Orange County. It said something like this:

Hna Green! Sorry this is going to be a short letter. I am writing to tell you something amazing. You changed someone's life. Guess what...

Hna Zehuancatl is getting baptized on Friday, 29 October!

I love you. Hope all is great in Las Posas. Take care! Love, Hna Goff.

HURRAY! You remember hearing about Hna Z?! She took such great care of me on my b-day? Yeah. How awesome to fairly securely know that she was baptized this past weekend. Wow. Hurray! I wrote her a letter while waiting for a computer today. I'm excited for all of you to meet her soon. Yes Mum, I only have something like 4 or 5 transfers. I have no clue how it is November. I came to the mission field one year ago today. Wow. The time has flown by. And I do need to be better about talking to everyone. *sigh* I don't know Dad about transfers. I'm ready for some changes. Hna M and I are pretty similar which actually makes things a little harder at times :)

The mult-zone conference was pretty great. We greeted Pres & Sis Zwick and I got an awesome hug from Sis Cook. Then we talked and learned together for hours. I was not called on for anything. And he didn't end up interviewing anyone. Hna Merrill sang and it rocked the place because invited the spirit so strongly. I was very impressed with Pres & Sis Zwick. We learned lots together. They were full of love and appreciation for us. And he talked about how right at that time the Brethren were in the Salt Lake Temple and they would be praying for us. Wow. Humbling. I actually don't remember tons of what I learned at this very second. I'm trying to stretch my little brain and think of lots of different, fabulous things. PS Found out that my current zone leader Elder Packer is the grandson of Pres. Boyd K. Packer. Huh. He actually returns home soon. OH! It was so great to see some old companions and hear of their love for me. I just love them and it was a needed boost to visit with them quickly. Hna Pechin, Hna Davis, and Hna Denker were all there.

There was another baptism on Sunday evening. Hurray! Hno Montiel (the ice cream man) was able to attend which is great. We think he is really close to being ready for baptism. Hurray. He is like our grandpa - so cute. He actually gave us ice cream one day when we saw his van and followed and parked so we could say hi and buy some. Ha ha. It's pretty great teaching an ice cream man.

Hna Mercado is in her 60's I would guess. She is still doing well, but no date. We need to invite her with a specific goal, honestly. She just moved houses. And she just loves us. It is so interesting. She gets excited to see and greet us at church. She had a bright lime green sweater this Sunday and I loved it. It helps represent the happy changes that have taken place in her life.

I had an interesting experience on Sat. We met an Atheist who kept denying that God exists. The burning in my heart from the Spirit was so neat to experience as I firmly affirmed that God exists and is our loving Father. We didn't talk to Junior for very long because it seemed we were all firmly set with our understandings. I did walk away and feel like I had an Alma-Korihor experience. Kind of neat to LIVE the Book of Mormon along with read it.

And then that morning we were able to "place" our first Book of Mormon. At least that is the first time that phrasing came to mind for me. We checked on a gentleman and talked with him and his wife. They were very curious about the Book of Mormon but not fully willing to learn and visit with us because they are Christian and JW representatives visit and teach them about the Bible :( They kept the copy of the Book of Mormon and we shall see. I felt it was a good visit. It is just hard when people still miss the amazing-ness. They didn't want to confuse themselves since they had just started down the path with their church. *sigh* Ups and downs of missionary life!

Yes, there is a form for the exhchange evaluation. No, my comp and I don't tract every week. We have been busy lately with appointments and we just walk around the neighboorhoods and apartment complexes where our friends live and talk to people that way. Tracting is tricky in this area where we overlap with English missionaries. Going to most neighborhoods wouldn't be fruitful for us. And in the apartment complexes it seems we meet most people just because we are there often walking around. Another rewarding moment was yesterday when our JW manager friend at one complex greeted us and said "It's always good to see you around here. Go get 'em!" I knew he was our friend but it was great to hear that he appreciates our work. I LOVE working with so many great people!

PS We were safe on Halloween. We returned home at 6:30 pm and studied. I read lots in my Spanish Book of Mormon and read some conference talks. And yesterday a few people gave us some of their Halloween treats so we got the best of both worlds :) Good to hear everyone had a good time at Gma's party. Even Dad who took a nap. And hurray for leaves clean up! We had some cold days but the past few have been hot again. Is it really November? Hard to believe at times when I grew up with better defined seasons :) Enjoy the snow!!

Yes Dad, I know that people would rather avoid us. It's interesting to think how that is totally my nature as well. I probably wouldn't want to talk to missionaries and now I am one! I'm grateful to serve the more humble, open people of the Spanish culture. Many will stop and talk of God for a good 5 minutes if they have it.

Way to go kiddios on the good score reports. Keep up the great work! It will pay off, that's for sure. And remember to enjoy the moments now. Life is all about learning. Learning is fabulous. It is about time for me to sign off.

I LOVE YOU ALL SO MUCH! Have a great week and keep working hard. And have FHE! It's fabulous. We had two last night, in fact.

Love,

Hermana Green

26 October 2010 - The danger of saving your draft

Hola Familia,

Lo siento mucho. I saved the draft of the e-mail for some good reason and then totally forgot to send it. I realized it as soon as read Dad's e-mail so sent it off to you. Don't even know if I had finished it. Oops! I'm sorry.

So, we had a pretty good week. A big adventure was the exchanges with the English sisters. It was good because it got me re-excited about missionary work and removed my fear of tracting. Mostly I just want people to give us a few moments to get to know us and listen to how much God loves them and is giving them the gospel. We had some good moments, some not-so-kind-people moments, and lots of no-answer moments. :) One lady was pretty upset with us for knocking a second time after ringing the first time. The door was flung open and she said "I am NOT interested and that is why I didn't answer the first time." Then powerfully closed the door. My response was and is the same "I was ignorant and you're getting mad at me for it?!" "How was I to know you weren't interested when you didn't open the door and tell me so?" Yeah. I just want to become her friend and help her see the reasoning and the silliness - like yelling at a child for disobedience when they honestly don't know better. But all is well. I hope she can embrace the joy and truth soon. I love her.

Also, I had the opportunity to be in a member home for the night - that was super weird. A single older lady is who they live with but it was the weekend so some of her family was visiting. A little grandson and TV. Strange things I am not used to being around :) Good to know the world goes on. I was asked to evaluate one sister. It is strange to be the "older" missionary. And somewhat respected it seems. But I have so much to improve on still! Ah well, Heavenly Father is loving and patient and life is on-the-job training, for sure. One thing is that I am grateful for your teachings, mostly on how to drive well and safely.

This Thursday we have the great honor of a multi-zone zone conference with Elder Zwick of the 1st Quorum of the 70. Should be pretty exciting. He wants to greet each of us individually and he'll call on some of us to practice teaching in front of everyone AND he'll randomly interview a few missionaries. We shall see....

This ward is doing super well and breaking records which is AWESOME. We have member help and they are out doing their part as missionaries which is why (I believe) we're having such success. They put on a wedding this past weekend at which lots of our investigators were found - but not us. We actually had two really good lessons that night. Truth be known, I am VERY excited to return and experience a Latin wedding. !Oh si!

One thing I have realized is that one of my "mission miracles" is one of the investigators we are currently teaching -- Hermana Mercado. She has made so many changes and found so much joy through the gospel. She has told us she now has a family at church, she loves attending and feels it when she isn't able to, and she soaks up all the things we invite her to read. Nearly snatched a pamphlet out of my hand yesterday. :) Oh and she trusts us and shares her feelings with us. It is just wonderful to reflect back on when we first met her when we arrived here and the current her. I LOVE the gospel and the changes it brings to lives of humble seekers of truth. Heavenly Father is so merciful!

Thank you, thank you for being living examples of his love. And for living the gospel so I could learn by word and by example. I am grateful to have opportunities to help others have the richness in their lives that we have as members. So happy to hear you are all doing well and keeping busy.

What else shall I share with you this week? Hm...We've had some fun in the rain, but haven't gotten too wet which I've really appreciated. And yes my shoes aren't good to walk on but they are more comfortable than my other black ones. It's good to hear you found the same ones and they are on the way. Thank you! Yep on sweater sizes -- medium junior and small misses. Not too heavy or bulky, please. I can't think of any clothing I would like sent back. I don't think I have a purse in my stash that will fit the requirements I'm dreaming of. You don't need to worry about it, actually. I will work with what I have. That is one huge lesson of the mission for me! Learn to use what you have and make it work. I think it would take me personally a long time to find just the kind of purse I'm dreaming of. So never mind! Scratch it from the "list". And I hear you about having too much stuff and not wanting to move. That's why one secret desire/goal is to live like a missionary all my life - thinking I might have to pick up and move in 6 weeks. We'll see how it comes out in practice :) We're in week 4 of the 6-week transfer. Nov 16th is the next day of transfers. We shall see what the Lord needs of me.

The scripture I found this morning is in Alma 38:8-9. It struck me that Alma first had to cry out to the Savior for help before he was relieved of his pain and given a remission of his sins. In other readings I've realized that the only way "out" is through the Savior. And the incredible news is that He is expectantly waiting for our reach and our call. Because as verse 9 says He is the only way. I love Him and am so grateful I can better learn how to be like and serve Him and His beloved children as I am a full-time missionary. I love you all very much and am grateful for your love and support.

Take care! And keep sharing the truth and happiness of the gospel. Everyone needs it.

Love,

Hermana Green

21 October 2010 - Humility

Hola Familia!

THANK YOU, THANK YOU for all the love and support! I needed it again. You are fabulous. I meant to request for you to send blips of your testimonies my way to help strenghten me. And actually, I would like to hear all about Priesthood from those that were there (cough). I haven't heard much about it honestly.

This week was good with lots of lessons and member help still. They really came through for us on the weekend and we had one investigator and her two little daughters at a baptismal service and at church. We still need to visit with the dad who has his own Christian church but they seemed to enjoy the events. And then members brought a new investigator to church. Hurray! I think it is much better for them to start off their learning by coming to church the first week. Then (hopefully) they have less reasons not to go since it is just what they do. We shall see.

It has been rainy lately, but we have been well taken care of. This morning was the Haynie breakfast at the stake president's house. Oh yum. Delicious food and great spiritual thoughts. Pres. Haynie talked of "old" missionaries keeping the childlike faith. I think I really need to work on that some more. As you continue going on and seeing lots and people don't do as they saw they will, it gets a touch discouraging. But I just have to believe in them and trust the power of the Spirit to give them the strength to press forward.

We had quite a few lessons this week and this current week looks busy because we have lots of investigators to take care of. And a whole day is knocked out from 4:30 Friday to 4:30 Sat as we will be on exchanges with the English sisters and working in their area. How fun is that?! I've always wondered about exchanges :) And now I'll get to experiment them. But in in English work. Scary. It will be so uncomfortably good for me.

We had a great FHE last night with Desteny and her family. Hurray! They were all excited and all participated. And we found out they have to wait about 3 more months for the wedding and baptism :( Not great but we do have a goal now. She is pretty great. I printed pics today and will send them your way :D You're welcome. Last night I got really excited about reading in 3 Nephi 11 with them about the Savior coming to visit the people. The Spirit was strong and I was excited. I've had some neat experiences reading that part with investigators. Oh and Desteny was funny when she said "Oh I get you now. The prophets wrote down the words of Jesus in there [Book of Mormon] so He didn't have to be writing all the time." Ha ha. She is super smart! And reminds me of Shantaye more and more. Have I mentioned that?

I found a formula for obtaining salvation in my reading this week: Alma 32:13. humility and repentence which yields mercy and enduring to the end with the end result being salvation. Hurray! Look it up and see what you can learn.

We also taught a very humble couple on Sun. afternoon. They are from Guatemala and don't know much, they say, but are smart and very willing to learn. They speak a dialect and the wife is still working to learn Spanish. They have twin boys that are almost 18 months. They are cute. It was a neat lesson. I love when people ask questions because then we know what we need to re-explain!

Well I'll smilingly take off now. Sad news, but good is that our district leader is changing his responsibilities today in the middle of the transfer. It's Elder Kendell who reminds me of JJ. He is going to become a third assistant I believe and go on exchanges with all the Spanish speakers. Sweet!

I love you all so much and am glad you are well. I am too. I will try and work even harder this week thinking of you and your sacrifices so I can be here having this incredible experience.

Heavenly Father loves and guides us in all we do! Keep being obedient and following the Spirit. It is crucial in life and so rewarding (while tiring).

Love you, love you.

Hermana Green

28 September and 3 October Baptisms!

September 28, 2010

Rocio Salazar & Hermana Green

Baptized into Oceanside 5th Ward

October 3, 2010 - Desteny Lule

Hermana Green and Hermana Merrill

October 3, 2010 - Desteny Lule's Baptism

Mom - Mariela Aguilar

Dad - Javier Lule

Las Posas Ward in San Marcos, CA

Hermanas Green & Merrill

12 October 2010 - Comin' at you from Escondido!

Hola Familia,

I'm in the Escondido library today instead of San Marcos. Yeah for changes (not really, but there is nothing I can do about it so I'm working to just smile). The internet wasn't working at the other library so we came here and got another library card - I now have 4 from serving my mission. Pretty funny.

All is well here. Hermana Merrill and I are working with lots of investigators. And we had quite a bit of member help in this past week which was pretty great. And we had a lot of people at sacrament meeting. Hurray! Desteny was confirmed. She is cute and a great example. Her parents should be able to work everything out soon so they too can be baptized. They received some green lights about more green lights in the near future. Double hurray.

Other investigators that we love aren't doing as well. We keep on loving them and praying for them. And we have some interesting situations in which we really have to follow the Spirit to plan for and teach these people according to their needs and abilities. Sometimes it gives me a little headache. But it really is great because Heavenly Father knows them and can teach and guide us in our efforts to help them find the only path back to him. Kevin is pretty well and saw a baptism this past weekend so he is less scared about his own. :) Interesting that a bishop has the members perform the baptisms. I understand how that would help so much with bonding. But it is pretty great for the missionaries to do it.

I am working to keep smiling. I re-set that goal earlier today when we were reading a talk by Elder Callister about being a consecrated missionary - one who gives his all and holds nothing back. I know that is what Heavenly Father wants and expects. And it is what I'm working to do. I am so far from perfect at it! But I love that through prayer we can talk with our loving father who knows us individually. We had a neat testimony-sharing time in district meeting where we talked of why we came on a mission and why we are here now. It was neat to hear stories of the elders and how the Lord guided them to this point. I re-realized that I'm here for the same reasons as why I came: to help others experience the changes the gospel brings. I love that we can continually learn and improve! I am frequently making mistakes but don't have to get too down about it because I can correct and change as soon as I realize my error.

We shared the story of the Savior blessing the Nephite children (see 3 Nephi 17) last night in an FHE. It was neat to see how He took and blessed them ONE by ONE. I think one of my favorite parts in the First Vision is the phrase "calling me by name" because it shows that Heavenly Father really does know who we are.

Did I mention that Hna Merrill loves to sing? Because she does. And so we sing. And she is my free jukebox at times. I get to make selections and she goes off singing. te he. It is incredible the power of music in inviting the Spirit, calming us, drawing people to the area, and re-focusing our minds and hearts. I'm loving it. She sang in our district meeting yesterday and it set the tone well.

I'm glad to hear that you are all well and keeping busy. What kind of a part time job is it, JJ? Go, Chez, go! Are you a co-captain or something? I remember hearing whisperings of that once upon a time. And I received your letter. When did you grow up? It's awesome, but a touch strange. Shantaye - are you still taking good care of Mom? She said you helped again with decorations for Halloween. Nice one. We have already seen some fun decorations. This holiday seemed to come so fast. Just last year I was celebrating it in the MTC with my district. Has it really been a year since I left you all, or more correctly you left me at the MTC?! Wow. Good luck with the trade show, Mom and Dad! I'm sure it'll be great busy fun. And it does sound like a neat thing to be a part of. What did you think, Chez and Shantaye?

The scipture that struck me earlier this week is in John 13:14. The Savior washes the feet of His disciples - not a very pleasant task and especially back then with the sandals and dusty roads they were always walking. And then He taught "so ye also ought to wash one another's feet." It struck me to think of how we need to love people SO much that we will serve them in any way - even the tasks that seem unpleasant. And so I invite you to re-dedicate yourselves with me to serving and loving all those around you. Everybody! And like Dad says give 'em a smile so they wonder why you're smiling. Hna Merrill has that goal because she wants to give everyone a little gift of a smile. (She is well and appreciates your greetings.)

Loves and hugs,

Hermana Green

Trainer * Trainee

5 October 2010 - Baptisms!

Hola Familia

Les amo mucho. Yes, this was a pretty great week with baptisms. Rocio's on Tuesday night. With lots of stress beforehand because Hna Lara and her family ended up not being able to take us and then we had to scramble to find a member. We found one willing but it took nearly 40 minutes for her to pick us up. We left about the time it was supposed to start. But in Spanish wards nearly everything starts late and so we arrived when they were still singing the opening hymn. Hurray! The family was really happy to see me there because they thought I wouldn't make it. I was super happy to be there to support Rocio and them. She mentioned me when sharing her testimony and explained something I had been confused about - when I left the area she was full of anger toward the missionaries. She said she thinks it might have been because she couldn't be as happy as we were. Jealousy. Interesting. I sometimes take for granted just how happy we are as members of the Lord's true church. But it is all well! She excited the room where the service was held and said "it's all your fault." I'm not sure just what she meant, but all is well because she is a member now!! Hurray. And she seems very happy.

I actually got to see her and Mari again on Sunday evening at Desteny's baptism because they brought the sisters (one of whom taught Desteny and her family for a few months before we came here.) So that was fun.

YEAH! Desteny was baptized and it was a great service where the Spirit was felt. She gave a short testimony which was so cute. She had told us before she was nervous but would do it. Yes, I most definitely have pictures. They might not be printed today as I need a haircut. But you'll get them. I loved that one speaker brought a sunflower and talked about how Desteny should us it to remember this special day. And the speaker invited Desteny's mum to buy her a sunflower to remind her when she wasn't making the best decisions. Pretty neat. And a member that bore her testimony said instead of doubting something we should try it out.

Well, I am doing pretty well. Hna Merrill says hi to the family. She is always happy to receive your greetings :) The cookies turned out okay (small and round) and our investigators enjoyed them. We have had more members helping us with lessons which is super great. And we have lots of investigators we are working with. The church tour did not happen, sadly. And we haven't not seen Jose or Blanca for some time. Hermana Mercado attended one session of conference and saw the baptism of Desteny - she is progressing and changing lots. It is so wonderful to see! This week she told us she has more "ganas" to read in the Book of Mormon. Awesome!

Good to hear the homefront is being improved but not going anywhere. Way to go Dad on helping Mom be happy. We shall see if she'll want a new color on the front door in a few years....but what color next? Thanks for all the updates on the family. Exciting about Kevin Meadows. It's hard to believe I am so close to the end of the mission. Yikes. I have SO much left to learn! I am so grateful for all your love and support and was hoping you could send your testimonies next week and thoughts from conference to help boost me up and help me be a better missionary. I love you lots!

Conference was great and members brought lunch for us both days. I thought of the family eating haystacks and it made me happy. :) We had a rainy day yesterday - makes for more fun adventures! I'm grateful for a rain coat.

D&C 84:88 Lord is all around us; the Spirit is in our hearts; and his angels bear us up. How wonderful is that?! And also, everyone deserves an opportunity to hear and learn.

Love you, love you!

Hermana Green

28 September 2010 - Conference Weekend - wahoo!

Familia!!

Where has my home gone? Te he. It seems the homefront is changing so much - I might not recognize it when I get back :) That's great that you are improving it and keeping Dad busy. Still unsure about the purple front door. I guess I'll have to see it in person before I make a judgment. Thank you, thank you for the pictures.

Leadership training was pretty great. Ended up being only 3 days because all the churches were booked for RS activities before the broadcast. It was awesome! We got up way early and went with 1/3 of the missionaries in the missionary to learn about and practice teaching by the Spirit. We did learn some great things we know need to apply. I know it will help our teaching tons and more importantly, help the investigators better come unto Christ. One fun activity was when we went around to 14 different stations and practiced just talking to people naturally in whatever situation and then inviting them to learn about the gospel. We're working to de-robotize! Hna Merrill and I started applying it right away and it was neat how people do open up more as we ask questions and learn a little about them before explaining who we are and what we do. One of my favorites was when Hna Merrill complimented a lady's eyeshadow. And I think she was more open because of it. Funny, huh? But whatever works to help them learn the truth.

There has been a crazy heat wave here or somethin'. SO hot the past few days! We keep going and semi-complain about it. And drink lots of water.

The RS general mtg was Awesome. None of our investigators made it, but we did! And we had delicious sandwiches at Panera Bread before (then there was a dinner provided afterward - go figure) Actually, I forgot. Hna Dolores Lara came with her friend from the English ward. And we talked afterward and the prophet's talk really struck her because she came to the meeting with questions and concerns about judging others. As one elder said in movies they showed us at trainings: "I'll put my money on the prophet." (These movies are about a district of 8 missionaries in San Diego showing their great teaching after they had trainings. And some moments of not-so-great teachings. And the trainings we are receiving are all the things that worked for them! It was great to watch and learn from their mistakes and good things.)

Oh and here's exciting news: Hna Lara is going to drive us to Rocio's baptism tonight. Woo hoo! Rocio who lives with Mari Arango and her family in Oceanside. I was told at the last day of leadership meetings that I was invited to attend her baptism. I'm pretty excited. It will be great to support them. And Hna Lara and her family (hopefully they come with) can see a baptism!

Desteny is pretty excited for her baptism Sunday night. And we are too. What a great way to complete conference weekend. Which should be super awesome - we're very excited and working to help others be excited too.

Kevin was at church with his family this week which was great. He really likes doing the dot-to-dot pictures that Hna Merrill makes for him - when he reads a verse he can draw a line. :) And Fam Sangerman hasn't been contacted since last Sun :( And they did not attend this Sunday - not sure what is going on. But we love them and will work to keep building a relationship of trust. One plan we have is to make cookies for some of our investigators :) We've been wanting to do it for a while but haven't been able to. It should work today as we borrowed a cookie sheet from our neighbor and will buy the last ingredients. I'm so excited for oatmeal cookies!!

Oh yeah - the hermano Jose that said he had been waiting for us to come and teach him is doing well. We didn't see them for a time, but had a good lesson a few days ago. And we're going to give them a church tour this weekend which should be neat. The Hermana really wanted to attend church this past Sun but they didn't get back from Mexico in time. They said definitely this week. Hurray.

I just started talking to an elder about Hna Lara and now I've lost my train of thought. Hm.. well, we are going to have another district activity today which should be fun. AND thanks for the updates on the family. I would love to be there for the Hawaiian haystacks. I haven't had those in quite a few years on Conf weekend. Yum! Enjoy the time with the fam. I was happy to think of the females watching the exact same thing on Sat night. The picture of the Cheney family was great. The boys are SO big. How and when did that happen? Awesome that Chez had fun at a dance - since when can you date?! Man, time is slipping by. Or more accurately, running by. But all is well. I was happy to see your date's modest dress. And you look tall and skinny. :) Hey JJ - what's up? Haven't heard from you since life got busy...

I love you all very much. Scripture for today: D&C 21:5 We should receive the words of the prophet as if from the Lord's own mouth. Conference will be awesome!! Love you. Keep up the great work as disciples and representatives of Christ. LOVE is the key - love is the key.

Love,

Hermana Green

21 September 2010 - A purple front door?

Familia,

That is the thought running through my mind right now. I too hope it turns out okay!

The San Diego Temple was fabulous! It had been too long. I can see the importance of attending at least every month. Good to hear the ward (and Mum) is headed there this week. The scaffolding was down so we have a pretty picture of us. Oh and Dad that is the 2nd time I've been there on my mission. I actually saw a member from the Oceanside ward there. It took a while to sort through memory files and place her. But I knew I knew her and she recognized me.

The week was slower than we would've liked but has picked up again. Sunday was pretty great and yesterday too with lots of lessons and member help. It helps so much to talk with the members and clarify what was said. And I used one member to help me know if I was understanding the investigator during the lesson - if she was nodding positively then I knew things were good. Te he. Little things I didn't really know the members were good for.

Well, the two Marias aren't doing much. One is undergoing cancer treatments and the other works so much. But we continue forth striving to help them learn and understand. The man who was waiting for us - Hno Jose Vidaca - is well. Stopped by yesterday and read with his wife who can't read well. We'll teach them again Thurs night.

Desteny is still very excited for her baptism. She attended the service this past Saturday and seemed to have a good experience. And yes, Kevin will probably be baptized in Oct, not Aug. And maybe not that. He wasn't at church again :( His mom has lots of stress right now and is getting bad headaches because of it.

I don't know how many missionaries are serving in the stake - didn't count. Maybe 5 sets of elders, English sisters, and us Spanish sisters ? Our ward is still being very supportive and it is great. So good to hear the home ward is working to friendship and help others. Yeah for food in bringing people together. Te he.

Little miracle this week - Familia Sangerman was at church! We hadn't had contact with them all week then we stopped by Sat night. And found out crucial info - they were lost for an hour last Sun searching for the church. Then found their old church, talked to the pastor, and started thinking about returning there. Phew. We testified simply and luckily caught them from falling - they agreed to try again the next day. They still got lost, but they were there! We think they had a good experience.

I'm so excited for the RS General Meeting! I'm pretty sure we can go - we probably need to get an investigator or two there. Not sure. I'm pretty sure we have one in mind that we can count on :) And conference soon. Hurray! My last one as a full-time missionary :( Not hurray.

OH! More exciting news. I received a letter from Evangeline in Taiwan. It was at the appointment with her and the sister missionaries that I decided to be a missionary. She was baptized in March! Her last letter made me think she had been baptized, but I didn't know. In some ways it feels like I can write that down as one of my convert baptisms. I'm excited to know she is well and a part of the church. Last I heard her mom was pretty against it and she couldn't really meet with the missionaries. She also told me she will serve a short-time mission in Taiwan. So exciting!

Scripture of the week: Romans 8:28 All things work together for good to them that love God.

It's so true! As we love God and obey him (see Isaac's e-mail about highest level of obedience) he blesses us and all things do work out well. But we have the opportunity to exercise faith and hope and develop patience as we wait for the Lord's timing.

The exciting thing to look forward to in this week is 4 days of leadership meetings. Wed-Sat 8:30 to 3:30 Yikes! So much time in trainings so we'll have to work hard in the afternoon/evenings to get the work done, help the people, and meet the standards.

I am happy and well. I love you all and thanks again for your support, prayers, and love.

Love.

Hermana Green

14 September 2010 - Oh where oh where has the time gone?

Hola family,

More and more I realize that time is moving quickly forward. When did I become an "older" missionary?! I don't know about this....

We went to Stake President Haynie's (big) home this morning for breakfast with all the missionaries that are serving in the stake. It was great and delicious food. He challenged us to really treasure our time as missionaries because we don't have to allot time for anything else -- and that never happens again in life. Later, we'll always have families and callings, etc. etc.

It was a pretty good week as we had Zone Conference - I love seeing the Cooks and receiving hugs :) We took pictures and I'll have to get a copy from the elders. We talked about many small and simple things which was helplful. And we talked a lot about Joseph Smith and the Restoration. I love how we are working on sharing the First Vision sacredly and reverently. I have a hard time just hearing someone read it now. I want to stop them and say "No, I'll say it at 15 mph" It is just so much stronger because you can visualize it and the Spirit can testify throughout.

We found two amazing Marias in this week. They are both excited to learn and were excited to receive copies of the Book of Mormon and hear that the Savior visited the people here in the Americas. Both have challenges to overcome - who doesn't?! But I love how I just know that the gospel can heal all problems. Sometimes I think "I don't know. How can I help them?" And then I remember - by teaching them the gospel. And if they will live it, all will be well. It's the truth and I wish more people could see it. And if they would just TRY it. That is what counts. Test the Lord and see how He blesses us.

Destiny (age 9) is doing well. We are planning her baptism for the 3rd of October right after General Conference (wahoo!! My last one as a full-time missionary :( ) She is really excited and has set an ambitious reading goal. She likes to talk and reminds me of Shantaye at times :) Oh yeah. My district leader Elder Kendell reminds me of JJ. I had forgotten to mention it. He is soft-spoken but a great missionary. And so I have hope that JJ was a great missionary as well.

Hey wow. He just sat down right next to me and now we have four missionaries in a row. That is pretty exciting. Just need one more on the end and it would be straight missionaries. Woo hoo! Missionary work is fabulous. Hey - here is a thought for you. The stake here is really pushing for members to develop relationships with nonmembers by having nonmembers in their home at least once every month. I think you should try that out. Even if it is just for a dinner. They realize that helping the people be here and feel the Spirit does lots for them wanting to learn more.

Our investigators are doing well. Kevin is pretty great too. He didn't come to church, but should be ready for baptism in the middle or end of August. I loved his response on Sun night after we explained keeping the sabbath holy: "Uh oh Joseph (his brother). We did something bad." Then he says how they went to a baseball game that day (and not church). I love children! His mom's response: "Children always tell the truth, hermanas." yes they do and it is fabulous!

Hermana Merrill had a good birthday. The members had a cheesecake with strawberries on top. It was delicious. And she has been able to try more 'classic' Mexican dishes which is just as fun for me. She didn't want much focus on her so all is well. I gave her the marroon scarf that I had. I can switch it out when the other arrives.

Well, I can't think of much else to share with you. This is the truth and we can all know it. And it is the happiest thing there is! Everyone everywhere can apply the gospel to whatever they know or do best and it makes sense - because it is truth. We talked of that a little with the English sisters at the breakfast this morning.

Scripture of the day: 2 Cor 9:7 God loveth a cheerful giver.

I'm trying to do an even better job of cheerfully giving - everything and always. It isn't always the super easiest thing. But Heavenly Father loves us and gives us so much!

I love you all. Keep up the great work as member missionaries and disciples of Jesus Christ. He lives and will help us in our righteous efforts.

Love,

Hermana Green