Wow! Everything sounds like it's going well. The dinners, lunches, talks, etc, all completed, now it's just halloween and the holidays coming up! :) I miss not making the pumpkin cookies and carving pumpkins while listening to scary music... i almost want to wait another semester before going back to school but I think I would get WAY too bored at home. I keep hearing from RMs who are so bored at home and who just can't sit still. I'm sure I'll be like that for quite a few months. The members in our ward are doing well! They now come up to Us telling us how so and so shared the gospel this week and how they said this and that. It's really cool to see them getting excited about the work. We have a great ward who are finally getting out of their comfort zone. And to tell you the honest truth I think it's because I'M finally getting out of my comfort zone again. I'm attempting to talk to everyone (haha you should just see me striking up random conversation with people in the street) Fortunatley I have Sis. Hudson to help me. :) She is a great companion, still has things to learn as we all do but she does everything so well and just shines with her love of the gospel and the importance it has in her life. :)
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So a few random happenings as of late:
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1. We have fog. And I mean thick and intense fog. Sunday morning we were driving to ward council and I could barely see 20 feet ahead of me! I don't think I've ever been in something so thick before! It was pretty cool. And each morning when we exercise we have a bit of foggy overcast. I'll send some before and after pictures haha.
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2. I've learned something lately. If we have a change in perspective we get a change of attitude and when our attitudes are changed, our actions change. Mondays are always difficult days because no one wants to set up things on Monday. Well yesterday during study I had a new perspective of the work. That when we work hard and focus on the Lord and His work we aren't so intimidated or fearful so I determined to have a better attitude about Mondays and to just work my hardest and focus on others instead of myself. As a result, we worked harder and we made sure we were always busy fulfilling our purpose, helping and inviting others to come to Christ and yesterday was the Best Monday ever. I think it was better then some of our other week days too! So there you have it. :)
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3. I've also learned that teaching with the Holy Ghost is like reading a new book or having a light turned on in your head. I feel like each time I teach others with the Spirit, I myself am learning so much more! I'll be saying something and then everything clicks and I know what I'm saying is true or I'll start saying something I've never even thought about so I know it must be the Spirit. It is truly a miracle. And Elder Holland said that when we are enlightened as we teach we can know with a surety that the Spirit is present and is leading the discussion. People cannot be converted without the Spirit. We were teaching a man a few days ago and he's trying to understand faith and how he can have it in his life to believe what we believe. While we were talking we were being completely led by the spirit. Unfortunately, a comment was made by another family member that completely changed the atmosphere and the spirit left. Out of no fault of the family member there was immediate contention and we could Not teach anymore. We tried to bring it back but it never really came back. We had to apologize and stop our teaching. We showed a mormon message and then set up another time to visit and left. It was sad to think that we were doing so well and that the Spirit was there one minute and had to leave the next. I know the adversary is trying to keep the work from continuing but God's work will not be stopped and every soul's salvation is so important to the Lord that He won't allow some mere servent (aka me) to mess it up. How wonderful that is to know.
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4. Last night we were teaching a woman who's name is Carolyn. She is a friend to one of our members. Their grandson invited her son a few weeks ago to attend church and they both ended up attending which is how we met them. It was so neat to see how the members were being so brave. Well we talked to her and she sounded slightly interested but not so much. We decided we'd try calling her anyway so we got her number and after weeks of her being out of town we finally got a hold of her last week and she set a time to meet with us yesterday. We still didn't think she'd be that interested but we went in with hope and talked about the Book of Mormon. We read the introduction with her and she was so fascinated! She said she'd come to church again and that we could meet with her on Sunday! We were walking on the clouds as we left. :) It's always been so wonderful to see a new-found light when people investigate the church and realize that there is so much hope and peace available in this world.
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5. Members have been asking us when we meet, why did we come out on a mission in the first place? It's always interesting to remember how I was when I was younger and apparently I thought I'd go on a mission, but it was never anything I think I really planned on. But here I am, serving the people in San Diego, California, studying my scriptures like never before and sharing my testimony with everyone I meet. :) I know there is no other place that I should be then here and now. I love it here and I know that what I'm doing is right. And it feels so good and I've gained a much better relationship with my Heavenly Father. I'm still working on it and always will be but I love where I am now and I wouldn't change that for the world. President Sabin, our stake President in Poway asked me "what are you going to do after your mission knowing all you know now?" Honestly I'm not sure as to the peticulars but I know I'll be attempting to be the best member missionary ever, I will study my scriptures daily, I will communicate with my Father daily, I will attempt to keep all the Christ-like attributes I have gained and I will always want to be the best person I can be to everyone around me. I never want to change. I Love who I'm becomming on my mission. And I'm so thankful to my Father in Heaven for helping me come out here and learn.
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I love you all and hope you are all doing really well in life! Keep up the missionary work, keep your life worthy of the spirit and enjoy every moment of every day. I Love my Father in Heaven and My Savior.
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Love Sister Maureen Davis
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Week 33 - Thursday, October 6th, 2011
Wow this is a long one to respond to.....
So my week has been great! We didn't meet with many investigators but I feel like we're getting on top of things again which is really good. Those investigators we do have are doing well. They are all the stubborn sort who don't like to meet often so we're going to try and explain the importance of meeting more and coming to church. But their interest is sincere and they do want to know more, so that's been good.
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As for the members, they've been great. We've been working more with members this week inviting them to work on missionary work and just get to know their friends more and invite them to things. Unfortunately, our ward council, which is top notch, has not been focused on the Rescue as much, even after that talk by Elder Alonso. Bishop is on top of it but it doesn't seem like the rest of the council is interested in helping the missionary work with less actives. It's somewhat frustrating as they just assume the missionaries do everything. Maybe I should share with them what Elder Perry told us. When he visited he told us that as we work with the ward council and combine our efforts in helping the missionary work then the Lord will open the windows of heaven and pour out blessings. I believe it! Now I just need to be humble enough to let the ward council actually help and I need to encourage them to help in the work. It may come through serving them first though. So we'll see how it works out. ;)
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One of the families we've been working with lately is the Tengburgs (or Tengyburgers according to Sis. Hudson) They are such a great family and so full of life and energy and a desire to serve. They may come to Mesa to go to the Easter Pageant in April (only 6 months away haha) and if they do I'll give them your number - they said they'd love to meet you. I love them so much, they are just a fabulous family! Anywho, I really don't know what more to say about our week - it was pretty slow this week. But something sis Hudson and I are trying is to memorize a scripture every day - it's not working out too well bc we keep forgetting but we can "try, try again." :)
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Mom - good luck with the holidays. And you don't need to worry - something I learned this week is that worrying is like rocking a rocking chair. You can go back and forth as much as you'd like but in the end you are in the same spot. :) So no need to worry, it'll all work out. And as for things you can send... maybe a blouse or two or a few cardigans (quarter or full length sleeves) but I may go shopping today to look for things. I just need a change of clothes... the shirts are starting to get worn. :p Oh bother. Other then that I can't really think of anything... okay maybe some sweets... you know me and my sugar tooth - I've been pretty good lately though so maybe it deserves a treat haha? Anway, I love you all and hope you are all doing well! I pray for you each night!
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Last thoughts, A while ago Sis. Hudson told me that her teacher in the MTC would tell them that if people, whether investigators or members, have doubts in the church or are second guessing and justifying things then they aren't reading the Book of Mormon every day. There is no way you can read the Book of Mormon every day, study and ponder and pray about it and be lead off the path. How neat is that? So I've made sure I'm studying the Book of Mormon every day and it's so true. The more I read it, the more I ponder the message it contains, the more I understand, the more I understand the more I know it is true and that no one but Prophets inspired of God could write that book. Every page testifies of Jesus Christ and His divinity. It is really a very special book. :) So keep reading the Book of Mormon, study and ponder it Every day! I love you all!
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Love Sister Maureen Davis
So my week has been great! We didn't meet with many investigators but I feel like we're getting on top of things again which is really good. Those investigators we do have are doing well. They are all the stubborn sort who don't like to meet often so we're going to try and explain the importance of meeting more and coming to church. But their interest is sincere and they do want to know more, so that's been good.
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As for the members, they've been great. We've been working more with members this week inviting them to work on missionary work and just get to know their friends more and invite them to things. Unfortunately, our ward council, which is top notch, has not been focused on the Rescue as much, even after that talk by Elder Alonso. Bishop is on top of it but it doesn't seem like the rest of the council is interested in helping the missionary work with less actives. It's somewhat frustrating as they just assume the missionaries do everything. Maybe I should share with them what Elder Perry told us. When he visited he told us that as we work with the ward council and combine our efforts in helping the missionary work then the Lord will open the windows of heaven and pour out blessings. I believe it! Now I just need to be humble enough to let the ward council actually help and I need to encourage them to help in the work. It may come through serving them first though. So we'll see how it works out. ;)
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One of the families we've been working with lately is the Tengburgs (or Tengyburgers according to Sis. Hudson) They are such a great family and so full of life and energy and a desire to serve. They may come to Mesa to go to the Easter Pageant in April (only 6 months away haha) and if they do I'll give them your number - they said they'd love to meet you. I love them so much, they are just a fabulous family! Anywho, I really don't know what more to say about our week - it was pretty slow this week. But something sis Hudson and I are trying is to memorize a scripture every day - it's not working out too well bc we keep forgetting but we can "try, try again." :)
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Mom - good luck with the holidays. And you don't need to worry - something I learned this week is that worrying is like rocking a rocking chair. You can go back and forth as much as you'd like but in the end you are in the same spot. :) So no need to worry, it'll all work out. And as for things you can send... maybe a blouse or two or a few cardigans (quarter or full length sleeves) but I may go shopping today to look for things. I just need a change of clothes... the shirts are starting to get worn. :p Oh bother. Other then that I can't really think of anything... okay maybe some sweets... you know me and my sugar tooth - I've been pretty good lately though so maybe it deserves a treat haha? Anway, I love you all and hope you are all doing well! I pray for you each night!
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Last thoughts, A while ago Sis. Hudson told me that her teacher in the MTC would tell them that if people, whether investigators or members, have doubts in the church or are second guessing and justifying things then they aren't reading the Book of Mormon every day. There is no way you can read the Book of Mormon every day, study and ponder and pray about it and be lead off the path. How neat is that? So I've made sure I'm studying the Book of Mormon every day and it's so true. The more I read it, the more I ponder the message it contains, the more I understand, the more I understand the more I know it is true and that no one but Prophets inspired of God could write that book. Every page testifies of Jesus Christ and His divinity. It is really a very special book. :) So keep reading the Book of Mormon, study and ponder it Every day! I love you all!
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Love Sister Maureen Davis
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Week 32 - Thursday, September 29th, 2011
Maureen's doing well, San Diego is a great place for her to be. I'm always grateful that she is so close to home. Thank you for all the support you give her. I know she feels and appreciates it.
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Dear Family and Friends,
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You are all too kind~ thank you for your love and support. I don't know if I could make it without all the prayers and love I receive from you. :)
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As for the Missionary Blog I'm pretty sure its californiasandiegomission.blogspot.com but I will check this week. Sis. Clayton is attempting to get pictures of everyone on there so I know there will be pictures of me on there for Olivia. As for pictures I am sending, I am planning on sending it today but we'll see how it works out. Hopefully you will have my very full memory card soon. :) oh and can you ask dad to send the other one, I don't think I ever got it back. i surprisingly am taking more pictures then I ever thought I would. Haha And I'm not good at taking pictures either. :)
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I'm glad the Denler's were able to speak, they are both wonderful speakers and so full of energy. I loved serving with them and seeing their sweet examples at the center. I have been so very blessed to work with the people I have and to see the many diligent examples of being Christ-like. I'm loving my area right now! And I love working with Sis. Hudson! She is an example to me and keeps me on my toes working. It's been a great experience to train and learn. (I really do think I'm learning more than I'm teaching). As for Sis. McCloy, she's serving in Clairemont, my first area. And she's loving it. They have to ride on bikes now so she's enjoying being more active. Although at times we are very different from each other it's strange not having her around as she's been my companion pretty much my whole mission! But this is a great learning experience for me and as I have more responsibility now I'm learning even more than before.
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We actually have been able to talk to lots of people that we hadn't been able to meet before and it's so neat to see how God puts us into different peoples paths and how Sis. McCloy needed to be here for certain people and to get us into different places but now it's our time to do the rest. Heavenly Father really knows what He is doing. that is something I've recognized a lot lately! He helps in everything we do, and He really does go before us to provide a way for us. Last night we were able to teach someone we've tried to meet for months now. Her sister is a convert to the church and we think she's seen the different ways of life and although she is Very rich (if you've seen fancy houses on movies that are modern that everyone has parties at, you've seen her house) she realizes she's missing something and her poor sister has it and she's recognized that it comes through our church. So we met with her and she wants to read the Book of Mormon find out if it is true and she wants to learn more! We are so excited for her!
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I really think that Heavenly Father has been blessing us and because we've been finding people on our own efforts, as we work with the memebers we will be blessed with much more through the members. This Gospel is amazing - Everyone Deserves to know about it and have the choice to choose it. :)
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Flo is doing well she watched General Conference and enjoyed it, we are trying to get her to do baptisms for the dead at the temple and get her patriarchal blessing! We're so excited for her and for all she is able to do. She's changed a lot. Don't worry mom we'll wait patiently for her gift. :)
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Life is well here, the weather is great, today it's sprinkling outside but we love it. Conference was unbelieveable! We loved it, it was so critical for our investigators and it helped in so many ways. We were surprised that President Monson got up halfway through the first session, but we found out later that it was because He came in late. He was probably running some important errands for the Lord, so it doesn't surprise me. He was so chipper it was so neat to see and hear him. It was really neat to see what the Lord wanted us to hear right now and how those talks usually all blend together to form one or two themes but this time they were all Very different. I liked it though, I learned a lot.
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I was also slightly surprised at the boldness of Elder Anderson and Elder Ballard (though less so with elder Ballard, he's Always bold). It was really great and I've come to appreciate conference so much more on my mission. I hope you all had your questions answered. I know mine were in many ways. It was a great experience.
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Thanks for the missionary work you are all doing at home and again for the prayers. I know Heavenly Father is watching over me! I love you all!
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Love, Sister Davis
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Dear Family and Friends,
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You are all too kind~ thank you for your love and support. I don't know if I could make it without all the prayers and love I receive from you. :)
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As for the Missionary Blog I'm pretty sure its californiasandiegomission.blogspot.com but I will check this week. Sis. Clayton is attempting to get pictures of everyone on there so I know there will be pictures of me on there for Olivia. As for pictures I am sending, I am planning on sending it today but we'll see how it works out. Hopefully you will have my very full memory card soon. :) oh and can you ask dad to send the other one, I don't think I ever got it back. i surprisingly am taking more pictures then I ever thought I would. Haha And I'm not good at taking pictures either. :)
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I'm glad the Denler's were able to speak, they are both wonderful speakers and so full of energy. I loved serving with them and seeing their sweet examples at the center. I have been so very blessed to work with the people I have and to see the many diligent examples of being Christ-like. I'm loving my area right now! And I love working with Sis. Hudson! She is an example to me and keeps me on my toes working. It's been a great experience to train and learn. (I really do think I'm learning more than I'm teaching). As for Sis. McCloy, she's serving in Clairemont, my first area. And she's loving it. They have to ride on bikes now so she's enjoying being more active. Although at times we are very different from each other it's strange not having her around as she's been my companion pretty much my whole mission! But this is a great learning experience for me and as I have more responsibility now I'm learning even more than before.
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We actually have been able to talk to lots of people that we hadn't been able to meet before and it's so neat to see how God puts us into different peoples paths and how Sis. McCloy needed to be here for certain people and to get us into different places but now it's our time to do the rest. Heavenly Father really knows what He is doing. that is something I've recognized a lot lately! He helps in everything we do, and He really does go before us to provide a way for us. Last night we were able to teach someone we've tried to meet for months now. Her sister is a convert to the church and we think she's seen the different ways of life and although she is Very rich (if you've seen fancy houses on movies that are modern that everyone has parties at, you've seen her house) she realizes she's missing something and her poor sister has it and she's recognized that it comes through our church. So we met with her and she wants to read the Book of Mormon find out if it is true and she wants to learn more! We are so excited for her!
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I really think that Heavenly Father has been blessing us and because we've been finding people on our own efforts, as we work with the memebers we will be blessed with much more through the members. This Gospel is amazing - Everyone Deserves to know about it and have the choice to choose it. :)
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Flo is doing well she watched General Conference and enjoyed it, we are trying to get her to do baptisms for the dead at the temple and get her patriarchal blessing! We're so excited for her and for all she is able to do. She's changed a lot. Don't worry mom we'll wait patiently for her gift. :)
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Life is well here, the weather is great, today it's sprinkling outside but we love it. Conference was unbelieveable! We loved it, it was so critical for our investigators and it helped in so many ways. We were surprised that President Monson got up halfway through the first session, but we found out later that it was because He came in late. He was probably running some important errands for the Lord, so it doesn't surprise me. He was so chipper it was so neat to see and hear him. It was really neat to see what the Lord wanted us to hear right now and how those talks usually all blend together to form one or two themes but this time they were all Very different. I liked it though, I learned a lot.
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I was also slightly surprised at the boldness of Elder Anderson and Elder Ballard (though less so with elder Ballard, he's Always bold). It was really great and I've come to appreciate conference so much more on my mission. I hope you all had your questions answered. I know mine were in many ways. It was a great experience.
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Thanks for the missionary work you are all doing at home and again for the prayers. I know Heavenly Father is watching over me! I love you all!
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Love, Sister Davis
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Week 31 - Thursday, September 22nd, 2011
Dearest all who read this,
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So this week has been a really good week! It started with a challenge. Flo found out that she lost her job which was really hard for her. Satan tries really hard right before baptism and for the first year after and of course the rest of your life to distract you and keep you from doing God's will. It can be difficult but God will help you and He won't let you be tempted "above that ye are able" 1 Cor. 10:13. So she's been better but to help ease the struggle we gave her a picture of her and us on her baptism day and we put tons of sticky notes on top with fun sayings or memories that would uplift her day (I used Aunt Kristin's sticky notes too. :) )
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She's doing better. But we met with Rob finally again and we had an amazing lesson. We were in the scriptures a lot and we explained the first half of the Plan of Salvation to him, at first it was hard for him to take our words as real even though this plan sounds great, so we invited him to pray about it because obviously that's the only way He can know. He prayed that night and ever since he's been more happy amidst all the difficulties and He's trying to share the Plan of Happiness with others. It's so neat. He's completely changed!
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We met with Todd this week as well and he was so happy. We talked to him about the role of the Holy Ghost and how important prayer was and we asked him how much he desired to know these things are true for himself. 10 being the highest he said 8.5! We would've been happy with a 4. He's doing great and he is beginning to understand and want what we're telling him! It's so neat to see this change in him as well!
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Well after the broadcast on Sunday for Relief Society I realized a few things and was reminded on a few other things. God speaks to us through his servents. He directs them to tell us just what we need to hear, and I felt like Pres. Uchtdorf really did that for me in his talk.
It's just so neat. He gave us God's word to Us, Right Now! And it applies to us all in some way, not always the same ways but it is so neat how it works out like that. It must be inspired. :) And Heavenly Father is pretty smart to know what we all need to hear and how Exactly (and who) His servents need to say it so that we can all learn and grow right now. That is just beyond neat to me.
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Sis. Hudson's friend was in the MTC and got to listen to Elder Holland do a Q&A. She said that one person got up and asked, what does Jesus Christ want us to know right now? And he responded, "that He is who He says He is and that what He said is true and that He loves you." How cool is that! It made me realize more strongly how much He is a part of this work, not only that but He really wants us to come to Him, He just wants us to exercize a bit of faith in Him, and believe what He said and what His prophets say today. So my challenge to you, have a question or two ready for conference. I Promise He will answer them through His prophets and servents. He wants us to know, He wants us to believe and He loves us more than we can even imagine!
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The last thing I really have to share for this week is that the dynamic duo of Sister McCloy and Sister Davis is coming to a close tomorrow. :( I'm staying in Green Valley with Sis. Hudson but Sis. McCloy is leaving us. :( I didn't expect it though she has this whole week. When we got the call I wanted to cry. It's been a hard run the two of us. There were times we did fabulous together and times when we drove each other crazy because we couldn't really understand each other. But I know that because of our 6 months together I will never be the same person again. She has made me the person I am now and I am so grateful for that. Heavenly Father has a plan and he knows what will help us best. I know it will be great fun when we hang out after the mission because she has truly become a sister to me. :)
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Well I love you all! Thanks for all you do and for the examples you set for me. Each person I have ever come in contact with has made me the person I am today and I want to thank each person for what they have done and their role in my life. I love my Heavenly Father and His plan for me, I know He loves me and every person on this earth who ever was, is or will be. He is the Father of us all and I appreciate all He's done for me as well. I could Never go through this life without Him or My Savior! I love them both.
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Love you all, keep being awesome!
Love Sister Maureen Davis
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So this week has been a really good week! It started with a challenge. Flo found out that she lost her job which was really hard for her. Satan tries really hard right before baptism and for the first year after and of course the rest of your life to distract you and keep you from doing God's will. It can be difficult but God will help you and He won't let you be tempted "above that ye are able" 1 Cor. 10:13. So she's been better but to help ease the struggle we gave her a picture of her and us on her baptism day and we put tons of sticky notes on top with fun sayings or memories that would uplift her day (I used Aunt Kristin's sticky notes too. :) )
.
She's doing better. But we met with Rob finally again and we had an amazing lesson. We were in the scriptures a lot and we explained the first half of the Plan of Salvation to him, at first it was hard for him to take our words as real even though this plan sounds great, so we invited him to pray about it because obviously that's the only way He can know. He prayed that night and ever since he's been more happy amidst all the difficulties and He's trying to share the Plan of Happiness with others. It's so neat. He's completely changed!
.
We met with Todd this week as well and he was so happy. We talked to him about the role of the Holy Ghost and how important prayer was and we asked him how much he desired to know these things are true for himself. 10 being the highest he said 8.5! We would've been happy with a 4. He's doing great and he is beginning to understand and want what we're telling him! It's so neat to see this change in him as well!
.
Well after the broadcast on Sunday for Relief Society I realized a few things and was reminded on a few other things. God speaks to us through his servents. He directs them to tell us just what we need to hear, and I felt like Pres. Uchtdorf really did that for me in his talk.
It's just so neat. He gave us God's word to Us, Right Now! And it applies to us all in some way, not always the same ways but it is so neat how it works out like that. It must be inspired. :) And Heavenly Father is pretty smart to know what we all need to hear and how Exactly (and who) His servents need to say it so that we can all learn and grow right now. That is just beyond neat to me.
.
Sis. Hudson's friend was in the MTC and got to listen to Elder Holland do a Q&A. She said that one person got up and asked, what does Jesus Christ want us to know right now? And he responded, "that He is who He says He is and that what He said is true and that He loves you." How cool is that! It made me realize more strongly how much He is a part of this work, not only that but He really wants us to come to Him, He just wants us to exercize a bit of faith in Him, and believe what He said and what His prophets say today. So my challenge to you, have a question or two ready for conference. I Promise He will answer them through His prophets and servents. He wants us to know, He wants us to believe and He loves us more than we can even imagine!
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The last thing I really have to share for this week is that the dynamic duo of Sister McCloy and Sister Davis is coming to a close tomorrow. :( I'm staying in Green Valley with Sis. Hudson but Sis. McCloy is leaving us. :( I didn't expect it though she has this whole week. When we got the call I wanted to cry. It's been a hard run the two of us. There were times we did fabulous together and times when we drove each other crazy because we couldn't really understand each other. But I know that because of our 6 months together I will never be the same person again. She has made me the person I am now and I am so grateful for that. Heavenly Father has a plan and he knows what will help us best. I know it will be great fun when we hang out after the mission because she has truly become a sister to me. :)
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Well I love you all! Thanks for all you do and for the examples you set for me. Each person I have ever come in contact with has made me the person I am today and I want to thank each person for what they have done and their role in my life. I love my Heavenly Father and His plan for me, I know He loves me and every person on this earth who ever was, is or will be. He is the Father of us all and I appreciate all He's done for me as well. I could Never go through this life without Him or My Savior! I love them both.
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Love you all, keep being awesome!
Love Sister Maureen Davis
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Week 30 - Thursday, September 15th, 2011
To start the email off I thought we'd go off in a bang... FLO GOT BAPTIZED!!!!!! :)
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There wasn't that fun? :) She was baptized on Saturday the 17th and let me tell you that was not an easy morning! Our mard mission leader and bishop were out of town and were flying in 45 minutes before the baptism started. So we were asked, last minute, to do lots of things including (and not limited to), picking up the programs, filling up the font, setting up the room, getting the baptismal clothing, etc. So we run around picking things up 2 hours before the baptism so we can fill up the font with enough time. We got the programs and went to grab the baptismal clothes from a members house. he told us the night before that he was going to put them in a box outside his front door. Of course we show up to his house and no box. no clothes. no nada. We tried not to freak out, we called everyone we could think of who could help and then decided there was nothing we could do right then so we went back to the stake center to fill up the font. Of course we couldn't find the keys the elders left us so that took another 20 minutes, and finally we got things going. We arranged the room, checked the font every now and then, called the stake primary presidency (no one responded) and tried to look calm as we know how easily Flo gets worried. So we kept it cool and fortunately the sisters who began teaching her were there and talked to her for a while. It was 5 minutes to noon and we still couldn't find any clothes. The stake president tried using his keys to unlock things. He had every key But the one to the primary closet. Ha! well we told Flo what was going on and she just started laughing. She told us she knew that the only she would get baptized was if there was a huge challenge - and here it was. :) Our stake president's wife finally told Flo that she could borrow her temple dress to be Baptized in. (You should know that Flo Loathes, and I mean it, skirts and dresses of any kind!) But she turned to us and said "Heavenly Father would give me this irony." She accepted and was baptized in a temple dress while her husband who baptized her wore someone's white shirt and the white pants we found in the closet. It was altogether such a humorous moment that even Flo was smiling. This was Heavenly Father's last test to see if she really was willing and she passed with flying colors!
.
It was such a wonderful experience. The next day she was confirmed by her father-in-law and she just beamed the rest of the day. I have never seen her so happy in her whole life! She was so happy! It was really the Best Day Ever.
.
It's so great to see one of Heavenly Father's children remember who they are and their place in this life and desire to come back to Him by making that covenant. She's set on being sealed in the temple in a year's time and we're invited. I'll have to come back after! :) I'm sooo happy for her!
.
Anyway, as for the rest of the week... we've had miracles galore. we've had two experiences where we've double covered our area (another sister came up with us and we split in two and divided and conquered) We found two new investigators which was really interesting how they came about. One was through a member who randomly called us up the night before asking us to come teach her the next day and the other showed up at an investigators house, I off-handly remarked that I thought he came for the discussion and he ended up staying and offering his experiences with prayer. It was really neat! We were also able to see lots of less-actives who we usually can't find at home! It's been a great week and we have a stronger drive to work harder this week seeing how many blessings came last week.
.
Other then all of that i've realized lately that I've become a little casual in being a missionary and I need to step it up more. Not that it's bad but I just haven't been giving it my all and I think that's why we haven't been having as much success. Now that I know what I need to be doing I feel like it's only going to go up from here. :) I just need to work on the faith vs. fear feelings.
.
Well I'm glad everyone is doing alright. Sounds like Erin had a good date and that Emmy and Olivia are being Very helpful. That's wonderful! I'm so happy for you all and I love you all so much! Keep being those wonderful missionaries I know you are! I pray for you every night! Love ya!
.
Love Sister Maureen Davis
.
There wasn't that fun? :) She was baptized on Saturday the 17th and let me tell you that was not an easy morning! Our mard mission leader and bishop were out of town and were flying in 45 minutes before the baptism started. So we were asked, last minute, to do lots of things including (and not limited to), picking up the programs, filling up the font, setting up the room, getting the baptismal clothing, etc. So we run around picking things up 2 hours before the baptism so we can fill up the font with enough time. We got the programs and went to grab the baptismal clothes from a members house. he told us the night before that he was going to put them in a box outside his front door. Of course we show up to his house and no box. no clothes. no nada. We tried not to freak out, we called everyone we could think of who could help and then decided there was nothing we could do right then so we went back to the stake center to fill up the font. Of course we couldn't find the keys the elders left us so that took another 20 minutes, and finally we got things going. We arranged the room, checked the font every now and then, called the stake primary presidency (no one responded) and tried to look calm as we know how easily Flo gets worried. So we kept it cool and fortunately the sisters who began teaching her were there and talked to her for a while. It was 5 minutes to noon and we still couldn't find any clothes. The stake president tried using his keys to unlock things. He had every key But the one to the primary closet. Ha! well we told Flo what was going on and she just started laughing. She told us she knew that the only she would get baptized was if there was a huge challenge - and here it was. :) Our stake president's wife finally told Flo that she could borrow her temple dress to be Baptized in. (You should know that Flo Loathes, and I mean it, skirts and dresses of any kind!) But she turned to us and said "Heavenly Father would give me this irony." She accepted and was baptized in a temple dress while her husband who baptized her wore someone's white shirt and the white pants we found in the closet. It was altogether such a humorous moment that even Flo was smiling. This was Heavenly Father's last test to see if she really was willing and she passed with flying colors!
.
It was such a wonderful experience. The next day she was confirmed by her father-in-law and she just beamed the rest of the day. I have never seen her so happy in her whole life! She was so happy! It was really the Best Day Ever.
.
It's so great to see one of Heavenly Father's children remember who they are and their place in this life and desire to come back to Him by making that covenant. She's set on being sealed in the temple in a year's time and we're invited. I'll have to come back after! :) I'm sooo happy for her!
.
Anyway, as for the rest of the week... we've had miracles galore. we've had two experiences where we've double covered our area (another sister came up with us and we split in two and divided and conquered) We found two new investigators which was really interesting how they came about. One was through a member who randomly called us up the night before asking us to come teach her the next day and the other showed up at an investigators house, I off-handly remarked that I thought he came for the discussion and he ended up staying and offering his experiences with prayer. It was really neat! We were also able to see lots of less-actives who we usually can't find at home! It's been a great week and we have a stronger drive to work harder this week seeing how many blessings came last week.
.
Other then all of that i've realized lately that I've become a little casual in being a missionary and I need to step it up more. Not that it's bad but I just haven't been giving it my all and I think that's why we haven't been having as much success. Now that I know what I need to be doing I feel like it's only going to go up from here. :) I just need to work on the faith vs. fear feelings.
.
Well I'm glad everyone is doing alright. Sounds like Erin had a good date and that Emmy and Olivia are being Very helpful. That's wonderful! I'm so happy for you all and I love you all so much! Keep being those wonderful missionaries I know you are! I pray for you every night! Love ya!
.
Love Sister Maureen Davis
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Week 29 - Thursday, September 8th, 2011
Thanks Mom,
.
It's always so fun to read your emails. So I've realized that no matter How often I eat it I just don't like broccoli. Doesn't matter if they steam it, eat it raw, fry it, bake it, etc. I just don't enjoy it :( I know you thought I'd have a greater span of liking food.... I'm working on it. Maddy told me in all capitals that I need to branch out. Haha I like tai food now, and I have tried squid - dried - but still not a fan. :)
.
So as for miracles this past week.... So last tuesday night, we met with Rob who we haven't been able to see in months, and we had a Great lesson and guess what? He got a baptismal date that night!!! He'll be baptized Oct. 8th. Flo is getting baptized this saturday - which was a close call, she almost changed the date to Oct. 22nd then we told her she was ready no matter what she decided and she jumped on that and asked her husband if they could continue this week! So we were ecstatic! Her husband who was less active will be baptizing her! (as for what she would want... no idea, maybe a necklace? She's not very girly but she likes simple jewelry) That was miracle number two and three. And an investigator from our last area, by SDSU texted us that night as well and told us that one day it just hit her, everything we had been teaching her was true!!! That was the greatest miracle of all! She was so against it at first and now she's getting baptized Sept 24th!!!! We were soooo happy. And we think it was because we took time out of our pday to teach a lesson to this lady, who is sweet, we invited her to read and pray about the book of mormon and she said she would but we think she was more interested in learning for knowledge's sake. Anyway because of that we had at least 4 miracles that night!
.
This week has been good, hard but good, we've realized lots of things that we can be doing to better the work and Sis. Hudson has been helping us to just jump up and do. It's kinda fun, when one of us is tired someone else will jump up and say "let's go" and we do. We really like our companionship and we hope president won't change it for a while. :) Well I don't know if you heard but all of southern california and part of arizona had a Huge blackout on thursday. We were visiting someone and didn't realize how big the problem was until we went past lots of stop lights that weren't working. We had no clue what was going on but it was neat to see neighbors coming together, helping each other with extra sources of light, and water, making sure everyone was alright and having bbq's for dinner as communities. It was cool. We were called in early so we were all safe and sound. In fact for dinner we had ice cream (save it before it melted) and a can of raw green beans. Yep! It was fun, we all sat around the table eating out of a can in candlelight haha, we took pictures too. It's been quite the adventure here and we've loved it.
So nothing much else to write. :) The work is going well, we're still learning and growing and loving all we're doing. It's great being out here and I'm so glad that you guys are making the effort to be missionaries back home! that's wonderful! :)
.
I know Emmy is being a trooper, tell her she's awesome and she'll make a great missionary! And so will Olivia! And Erin and Maddy and everyone else haha.
.
I love you all and I pray for you often! Know that I care about you a lot~ Oh and my companions and the elders here say hi. :)
.
Love ya~
Love Sister Maureen Davis
.
It's always so fun to read your emails. So I've realized that no matter How often I eat it I just don't like broccoli. Doesn't matter if they steam it, eat it raw, fry it, bake it, etc. I just don't enjoy it :( I know you thought I'd have a greater span of liking food.... I'm working on it. Maddy told me in all capitals that I need to branch out. Haha I like tai food now, and I have tried squid - dried - but still not a fan. :)
.
So as for miracles this past week.... So last tuesday night, we met with Rob who we haven't been able to see in months, and we had a Great lesson and guess what? He got a baptismal date that night!!! He'll be baptized Oct. 8th. Flo is getting baptized this saturday - which was a close call, she almost changed the date to Oct. 22nd then we told her she was ready no matter what she decided and she jumped on that and asked her husband if they could continue this week! So we were ecstatic! Her husband who was less active will be baptizing her! (as for what she would want... no idea, maybe a necklace? She's not very girly but she likes simple jewelry) That was miracle number two and three. And an investigator from our last area, by SDSU texted us that night as well and told us that one day it just hit her, everything we had been teaching her was true!!! That was the greatest miracle of all! She was so against it at first and now she's getting baptized Sept 24th!!!! We were soooo happy. And we think it was because we took time out of our pday to teach a lesson to this lady, who is sweet, we invited her to read and pray about the book of mormon and she said she would but we think she was more interested in learning for knowledge's sake. Anyway because of that we had at least 4 miracles that night!
.
This week has been good, hard but good, we've realized lots of things that we can be doing to better the work and Sis. Hudson has been helping us to just jump up and do. It's kinda fun, when one of us is tired someone else will jump up and say "let's go" and we do. We really like our companionship and we hope president won't change it for a while. :) Well I don't know if you heard but all of southern california and part of arizona had a Huge blackout on thursday. We were visiting someone and didn't realize how big the problem was until we went past lots of stop lights that weren't working. We had no clue what was going on but it was neat to see neighbors coming together, helping each other with extra sources of light, and water, making sure everyone was alright and having bbq's for dinner as communities. It was cool. We were called in early so we were all safe and sound. In fact for dinner we had ice cream (save it before it melted) and a can of raw green beans. Yep! It was fun, we all sat around the table eating out of a can in candlelight haha, we took pictures too. It's been quite the adventure here and we've loved it.
So nothing much else to write. :) The work is going well, we're still learning and growing and loving all we're doing. It's great being out here and I'm so glad that you guys are making the effort to be missionaries back home! that's wonderful! :)
.
I know Emmy is being a trooper, tell her she's awesome and she'll make a great missionary! And so will Olivia! And Erin and Maddy and everyone else haha.
.
I love you all and I pray for you often! Know that I care about you a lot~ Oh and my companions and the elders here say hi. :)
.
Love ya~
Love Sister Maureen Davis
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Week 28 - Thursday, September 1st, 2011
Dear Family and Friends,
.
I just realized that I'm a missionary! Ha! It's a strange feeling. I've been thinking about a mission for so long that it's strange to actually be here. There are just moments of clarity that hit and say "you're a missionary!" It's something I only imagine other people being that it's strange actually being a missionary. I know that's all jumbled and hard to understand but if you were on a mission right now, you'd know how I feel. :)
.
So anyways.... Questions:
do you get my pictures that I send from the Mormon Battalion? If so then you would have received a picture a week ago of me, Sis. McCloy and my new companion Sis. Hudson. :)
Mom - I was wondering if you have any of that ELF fair foundation left. If so can I have another one? I am running out of mine fast. And dad mentioned you may be sending a care package.
.
Okay, so as far as being a missionary goes... this last week was REALLY hard. And I mean I don't think I've had a harder week then last week (besides the time I had to tell Bro. Thomas that he wasn't ready for baptism and see his wife's pained expression) At the time we were trying to help our investigators and it seemed like all of them either ran away, told us they didn't want to see us, or are moving. Which is pretty accurate. But it was just challenging after working with these people for a while just to see their progression stop and not realizing if it was due to us or other forces (namely the adversary) so we got really frustrated. Especially last Sunday. Well this past Sunday Flo again told us she didn't want to meet and needed more time. That made us Really anxious. And then the other lady cancelled on us Again. Rob is now in hiding and we can never get a hold of him which is really weird, and Todd is moving back to Virginia. Yep, life is swell and on top of that everyone we talked to acted as though we weren't great missionaries because of all that was happening to us. Talk about real bummer. We came to the conclusion this Sunday that Heavenly Father is teaching us patience and is allowing us to feel the way others feel so that we can better help them.(and satan is working on us so that we don't do as much) In fact, realizing that made all the difference.
.
If we are expected to help others out of their predicaments then we must know how to help them out of it, in a way by going through similar experiences. Afterall, we cannot expect to convert others if we are not first converted ourselves. So that has made things easy on us and we've definitely been strengthaned by the Lord and your Recording (thank you family! That was one of the highlights of my week it so was so nice to hear from you - Promise I'll send it back soon) We just put in our best efforts, no matter how difficult the day was. One thing specifically we worked on was talking to everyone we see. We've met a few people because of it and although they all live out of our boundaries we get refferal karma. So we should receive refferals soon haha.
.
Well we kept trying our best and worked hard anyway, we also tried to stay optimistic. And you know what? It paid off and Heavenly Father blessed us greatly. Sometimes we have to go to the 11th hour alone, but that is when the Savior steps in and helps us through. He definitely helped us this time. Yesterday we had scheduled a time to help Flo with unpacking her art belongings and stacking them in her garage. We went over there and began helping, it was actually lots of fun and we enjoyed organizing art supplies in the heat... :) She then decided we needed a break and we all went inside to get a glass of water. we ended up talking for a long time and Sis. McCloy bore her testimony and Flo ended up telling us that she just realized that whenever something amazing is going to happen, that's usually when huge trials come. She said she knows this church is true because she's been going through really rough times, and because she's accepted that, everything is so much easier! and She's happy! And She wants to get baptized soon! She isn't even worried if her husband will be ready to baptize her or not, because she just wants to be baptized!!! I have never been so happy in my life! This really reminds me of Alma the younger's story, how he explains how terrible his suffering was and at the same time when he chose to look to the Savior and have faith, how great was his joy! In fact it was as great as his suffering had been. That's how I feel right now.
.
How great is my joy for Flo, for the hard time she's gone through and for the fact that she chose to follow the Savior even when she didn't completely understand. That is faith. :) Yesterday was amazing and we finished up by reading 2 Ne. 4:16-38, you need to read it. If Nephi was so blessed and still made mistakes and had to overcome them, how much more do I have to do? It's a great chapter. I love the scriptures, especially the Book of Mormon, it's just so... True!
Well after that the day went exceptionally better and it ended with us meeting with Todd and finding out that he'll be back in two weeks for a little visit and we can teach him again then!
Great Days are here again - now to talking to the other lady about her baptismal date and finding Rob again, and finding more people too. :) Life is sweet.
.
Well among all that we talked to someone from France and I've decided to have a Lot of respect for those missionaries who serve in France. I know they have a hard time and yet they keep trying anyway. Way to go!
.
Oh! this last Sunday we taught in Primary - that was interesting. It was kinda fun to be back in primary and also very tiring. They have a LOT of energy, if only I could take some of it and use it for missionary work. :)
.
I've also decided, and I may have told you before but now I've really decided, that I want to serve in the MTC. How cool would that be? Teaching all the things I've learned and helping other missionaries get a head start on the best experience of their lives. I think that would be so awesome.
.
Last random thought, promise. I've met Santa's biggest helper Ever. His name is brother Huish, he's in our ward and ever christmas time Santa comes to his house on vacation (because where else would he go on vacation but in California?) and at night he greets children. Some of his workshop is in the Huishes back yard and he allows it to snow two weeks before Christmas at their house. It's pretty amazing. The Huishes actually have an indoor Jungle. Not kidding, I've seen it. they keep it there all year long. They've blessed so many lives because of it and he has many amazing stories to share concerning his winter wonderland. It is really neat. They are great member missionaries, setting examples and telling everyone about the Gospel. :) They also told us about a girl named Jackie Evanko? if you don't know about her, look her up on I-tunes, she's the 10 year old. :) Anywho, I digress, Mission life is awesome. It's really great to serve the Lord and to come closer to Him then I've ever been before. I know He lives and loves each one of us! He is our Savior and Redeemer, our Brother and Friend, and I love Him so much.
.
I love you all and hope you are all doing splendidly! Love you!
Love Sister Maureen Davis
.
I just realized that I'm a missionary! Ha! It's a strange feeling. I've been thinking about a mission for so long that it's strange to actually be here. There are just moments of clarity that hit and say "you're a missionary!" It's something I only imagine other people being that it's strange actually being a missionary. I know that's all jumbled and hard to understand but if you were on a mission right now, you'd know how I feel. :)
.
So anyways.... Questions:
do you get my pictures that I send from the Mormon Battalion? If so then you would have received a picture a week ago of me, Sis. McCloy and my new companion Sis. Hudson. :)
Mom - I was wondering if you have any of that ELF fair foundation left. If so can I have another one? I am running out of mine fast. And dad mentioned you may be sending a care package.
.
Okay, so as far as being a missionary goes... this last week was REALLY hard. And I mean I don't think I've had a harder week then last week (besides the time I had to tell Bro. Thomas that he wasn't ready for baptism and see his wife's pained expression) At the time we were trying to help our investigators and it seemed like all of them either ran away, told us they didn't want to see us, or are moving. Which is pretty accurate. But it was just challenging after working with these people for a while just to see their progression stop and not realizing if it was due to us or other forces (namely the adversary) so we got really frustrated. Especially last Sunday. Well this past Sunday Flo again told us she didn't want to meet and needed more time. That made us Really anxious. And then the other lady cancelled on us Again. Rob is now in hiding and we can never get a hold of him which is really weird, and Todd is moving back to Virginia. Yep, life is swell and on top of that everyone we talked to acted as though we weren't great missionaries because of all that was happening to us. Talk about real bummer. We came to the conclusion this Sunday that Heavenly Father is teaching us patience and is allowing us to feel the way others feel so that we can better help them.(and satan is working on us so that we don't do as much) In fact, realizing that made all the difference.
.
If we are expected to help others out of their predicaments then we must know how to help them out of it, in a way by going through similar experiences. Afterall, we cannot expect to convert others if we are not first converted ourselves. So that has made things easy on us and we've definitely been strengthaned by the Lord and your Recording (thank you family! That was one of the highlights of my week it so was so nice to hear from you - Promise I'll send it back soon) We just put in our best efforts, no matter how difficult the day was. One thing specifically we worked on was talking to everyone we see. We've met a few people because of it and although they all live out of our boundaries we get refferal karma. So we should receive refferals soon haha.
.
Well we kept trying our best and worked hard anyway, we also tried to stay optimistic. And you know what? It paid off and Heavenly Father blessed us greatly. Sometimes we have to go to the 11th hour alone, but that is when the Savior steps in and helps us through. He definitely helped us this time. Yesterday we had scheduled a time to help Flo with unpacking her art belongings and stacking them in her garage. We went over there and began helping, it was actually lots of fun and we enjoyed organizing art supplies in the heat... :) She then decided we needed a break and we all went inside to get a glass of water. we ended up talking for a long time and Sis. McCloy bore her testimony and Flo ended up telling us that she just realized that whenever something amazing is going to happen, that's usually when huge trials come. She said she knows this church is true because she's been going through really rough times, and because she's accepted that, everything is so much easier! and She's happy! And She wants to get baptized soon! She isn't even worried if her husband will be ready to baptize her or not, because she just wants to be baptized!!! I have never been so happy in my life! This really reminds me of Alma the younger's story, how he explains how terrible his suffering was and at the same time when he chose to look to the Savior and have faith, how great was his joy! In fact it was as great as his suffering had been. That's how I feel right now.
.
How great is my joy for Flo, for the hard time she's gone through and for the fact that she chose to follow the Savior even when she didn't completely understand. That is faith. :) Yesterday was amazing and we finished up by reading 2 Ne. 4:16-38, you need to read it. If Nephi was so blessed and still made mistakes and had to overcome them, how much more do I have to do? It's a great chapter. I love the scriptures, especially the Book of Mormon, it's just so... True!
Well after that the day went exceptionally better and it ended with us meeting with Todd and finding out that he'll be back in two weeks for a little visit and we can teach him again then!
Great Days are here again - now to talking to the other lady about her baptismal date and finding Rob again, and finding more people too. :) Life is sweet.
.
Well among all that we talked to someone from France and I've decided to have a Lot of respect for those missionaries who serve in France. I know they have a hard time and yet they keep trying anyway. Way to go!
.
Oh! this last Sunday we taught in Primary - that was interesting. It was kinda fun to be back in primary and also very tiring. They have a LOT of energy, if only I could take some of it and use it for missionary work. :)
.
I've also decided, and I may have told you before but now I've really decided, that I want to serve in the MTC. How cool would that be? Teaching all the things I've learned and helping other missionaries get a head start on the best experience of their lives. I think that would be so awesome.
.
Last random thought, promise. I've met Santa's biggest helper Ever. His name is brother Huish, he's in our ward and ever christmas time Santa comes to his house on vacation (because where else would he go on vacation but in California?) and at night he greets children. Some of his workshop is in the Huishes back yard and he allows it to snow two weeks before Christmas at their house. It's pretty amazing. The Huishes actually have an indoor Jungle. Not kidding, I've seen it. they keep it there all year long. They've blessed so many lives because of it and he has many amazing stories to share concerning his winter wonderland. It is really neat. They are great member missionaries, setting examples and telling everyone about the Gospel. :) They also told us about a girl named Jackie Evanko? if you don't know about her, look her up on I-tunes, she's the 10 year old. :) Anywho, I digress, Mission life is awesome. It's really great to serve the Lord and to come closer to Him then I've ever been before. I know He lives and loves each one of us! He is our Savior and Redeemer, our Brother and Friend, and I love Him so much.
.
I love you all and hope you are all doing splendidly! Love you!
Love Sister Maureen Davis
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