Week 32: Hermano: Ponga Su Falda

5 Questions:

1) How close were you tot he tornadoes last week?  Will you have the chance to do some service in the area because of them?

2) Do you have a snail mail address for me and Grandma Cheryl at your new place?  Please share it....Gma asked last weekend.

3) Do you have new investigators in the Spanish Branch?  Have you been there long enough now to meet and teach them?

4) Can you share any more details about your new compañera?  What HS did she attend?  What are her schooling plans?

5) Any chance you have a snail mail address for the A-family I might get from you?

1. Here in Bloomingdale we didn't get hit by the actual tornado, however we had some pretty spectacular lightning storms. Oh man. Funny story....so Thursday night is car exchange (the other Hnas have the car the first half of the week and we get it from them Thursday night) so they had to come pick us up where we were at on bikes. We got out of an appointment right at 8, walk outside and it's dark; we look at the sky: it was like a fireworks show there was so much lightning. I'm
not exaggerating, I promise. I'm terrible at judging distance so I'm not sure how far it was but it was amazing to watch. The downside is that there's this rule for missionaries that if you see lightning you
have to stay inside for the next half hour to make sure there's no  more lightning. Here's the problem: we were in a residential area, waiting for the other hermanas to pick us up. (Also, we hadn't eaten
dinner; that's important to know.) So we had two options: stay right  where we're at or try to find somewhere inside to be. Obviously we chose option number two. But because we were on bikes, we had to bike to somewhere we could be inside. And the ONLY place we could go to was a taqueria, about three or four blocks away maybe--in the direction of the lightning storm. haha. So maybe we biked into a lightning storm on the night of a tornado. No big deal. But, since I'm emailing you
today, obviously nothing happened. We got whipped around by the wind a bit--skirt + bike + storms winds = I-just-don't-care-anymore.  We were kind of freaking out, I admit that, but we made it to the taqueria safe and sound. They had $1 tacos! Oh man, and they were divine, I tell you. Best night ever. (:  So, in answer to your question, we were sort of close I guess, but only to the effects of the tornado, not the actual tornado itself. We did hear from a member that Rockford (Hna Hunsaker's last area) and Peoria (my last area) got hit. So....now we know why elders got put in! (: haha just kidding. I still haven't heard a confirmation that somewhere by Peoria got hit, so could someone please look into that and tell me? I just really want to know. And we're not allowed to email elders so I can't find out info from anyone in the mission.... However Rockford definitely got hit (some of the outlying suburbs or whatever) and we know some of the missionaries there. Hopefully we find out something today but who knows. Communication as a missionary is a bit rough... And no, we won't get to do service regarding the tornado because it's out of our area. I so wish we could though....

P.S. Hermana Capps is in Sycamore/Dekalb so she's by the tornado. Sounds like they get to help with the relief effort so that's awesome! Oh, and they're safe. That's good too.

 2. Yes. It's 900 N Rohlwing Rd #228 Addison IL 60101
Speaking of, I got a package from Aunt Melanie and family. Thanks!  That scripture chase was super cute. haha

3. We've gotten a couple new investigators since I've been here but they didn't answer for their return appointment so....who knows what'll happen with them. As far as teaching investigators in general,
yeah we've done some teaching. haha we have two investigators who will be getting married on April 25 and then baptized the next day (hopefully; we're still not sure if that's gonna fly--waiting a week
to receive the Holy Ghost...) and then we're working with some other families as well. It is somewhat extremely frustrating in this area because no one wants to get married! We have two investigators who REALLY want to be baptized but their "husbands" won't actually marry them. Goodness. I mean, I understand the actual marriage certificate thing is like $70 or something but I would gladly pay for that if you would just get married! Man.... Sometimes, I have moments where I realize how blessed I am to grow up in the Gospel, and to have parents who are married--legally as well as in the temple. 

4. Okay, other details....she is from Orem but went to Provo HS. She was an athletic trainer (?) and is certified to be a first-responder so that's cool. She said she did a lot of things with athletes at the
high school; she said she knows Bryce and Garett. Her cousins live in Pleasant Grove (Nicki Anderson is Cameron's age. I don't know how to spell her name....but do you know her Cameron? Sounds like Hna Hunsaker's cousin knows of Cameron, and knows people who know him.)  She played rugby in college and has done basically every other sport you can think of--except water polo. She's a ginger. We have fun together and she thinks it's funny that I think I'm funny.

 5. Yes of course! It's 735 Hale St Normal, IL 61761

I don't even know what else to write....

Well, this week I have developed a new-found/re-found love of the Doctrine and Covenants. Man, it is so good. I started reading it in Spanish (I think one of my pet peeves is unmarked scriptures so it's been killing me) and it is just so amazing. I feel like I personally tend to forget about D&C (Sorry Hna Grant...hehe) and the Pearl of Great Price but they're spectacular! I recently finished reading Moises and Abraham and they are just chock-full of doctrine. So fantastic. You all should go read the Pearl of Great Price.

Speaking of scripture reading, how's the Book of Mormon challenge going? Is anyone even reading it? Because I finished on time so....I win. (: haha I ended up having to read about 15 pages each day for 4 days, but it was definitely worth it. Goodness me, the Book of Mormon is just so delicious to one's soul.

I guess I can explain this week's title:

Basically, a Spanish branch is unlike anything you could possibly experience in the English program. Particularly MCM. Anyway, so we were talking about possible hermanas that could come out with us and the branch mission leader, Hermano Avila, and the 1st/2nd counselor in the branch presidency, Hermano Flores, were sitting and thinking about it. Then Hermano Flores goes, totally chill, "Hermano, ponga su falda." haha oh man. And what made it even better was that only Hna Hunsaker and I actually heard him say it so we were DYING of laughter and the other missionaries were all like, "wait, what?" hahaha oh man. Too funny.... (For all you gringos, "ponga su falda" means "put your skirt on")

Oh, another funny thing about the area: there are SO MANY geese. Canadian geese too. It's kind of insane. You can basically always hear them. It's crazy. And the other day, one actually hissed at us. HISSED, I tell you. Goodness. It's not like you own the grass.....besides we were walking on the sidewalk! haha anyway. So that was weird.

We saw a crane this week too. We were riding past a little pond thing and there was this random crane at the edge. That was cool. haha

The other hermanas had a baptism this week. His name is Margarito and he is literally the cutest viejito of all time. Man. They found him while riding bikes too; they both felt the prompting to stop and talk to him and he was GOLDEN. He's only been meeting with them for about a month. And, get this: there was some miscommunication about conference (his phone volume had gotten turned off somehow) and he wasn't able to watch conference. The hermanas were worried because they hadn't heard from him so they went by on Monday night and he opened the door with eyes red/puffy from crying--because he'd missed hearing the prophet speak! I mean, how much cuter can you get? (You can't actually.)

Oh, speaking of viejitos, this week we met Israel. A tiny short Latino viejito (little old man). We were walking by his garage and they were BBQing and we didn't say anything--I knew we should've--and he said "buenos dias" o algo to us. So we stopped and gave him a card. Turns out he has been looking for something more than what he has, regarding religion and God. So we invited him to come to church and he said he would. Then, a little bit later, after our cita, we walked back and he was still outside so we talked to him again and again encouraged him to come. He said he would. Then, Saturday we were in the area again and talked to him again. He told us he wasn't so sure about coming because he wouldn't know anyone. We reassured him that we'd be there and that plenty of people would say hi and help him out. He said he'd come. Sunday: he didn't show. So, we were in the area Sunday and felt like we should go back. Come to find out, he'd fallen and torn his meniscus (or something like that) and has to go to the doctor Tuesday. man. Satan! He's the worst, that guy. He told us he wasn't sure if he could come this Sunday either because he'll have crutches and will need a ride. We told him don't even worry about it! So many members would be willing to give him a ride....so we set up an appt to come back and check on him (and teach him). Man. So excited. At first I was getting weird vibes from him but now they're all good. He's amazing and I'm so excited to teach him Friday.

Anyway, I think that's actually it now.

I love sharing the Gospel. It's so true for each and everyone of us. Go read the Priesthood session talks. They're amazing.

Love, Hermana DeBuck

Week 31: "Life Without the Gospel is like a Pizza Without Mozzerella: It's Disgusting and Wrong!"

Mom's note:  Her P-Day was pre-empted by a mission-wide conference yestrday, so here is her letter for this week:

5 Questions:

1) What is your new compañera like?  Where is she from?  How do you get along?

2) How is the new area?  How are the investigators?  How is the branch?

3) Are you using your language more in the new area?  How is that going?

4) Did you get the box with the spring/summer things in it for you?

5) Did you get to watch conference?  How was this general conference different from October?  Mission field vs. MTC for conference?

1. Okay, well to be completely honest, I think I've got the coolest companion from Orem, UT of all time. No joke. It already feels like we've been together forever and we have so much fun together.
Some random fun facts:

• Her dream is to be a fighter pilot for the Navy, but since the dream took root they've retired her plane. But the dream is still strong.
• She studied Arabic in high school.
• She played rugby in college.
• She was originally called to serve in Peru, but after three months was too sick and was sent home. She was then reassigned to this mission, for which I am very grateful. She's technically been out about nine months, but only about six in this mission and so we're co-senior companions.

2. Well. The new area = the promised land. There are so many Latinos! Like, it blows my mind. I didn't realize how scarce they were in Bloomington-Normal. It's amazing here. And then we've got super solid super awesome investigators. The highlight so far is this couple, Juan and Jovita. They have to get married before they get baptized and had picked the date 20 June for their wedding but then, with next to no effort on our part, they decided to move it up about two months and they're now getting married 24 April, baptized 25 April, and confirmed 26 April. SO COOL. It was one of the greatest experiences of my entire life.

And then the branch. So I've been serving in 3 English wards for six months. Which I loved, completely, don't get me wrong. But a Spanish branch is like a dream come true! It's amazing. I'm honestly kind of surprised at how well my Spanish has stuck but I feel like I'm doing pretty good. The members are awesome, especially the Torres Family. Here's why: they have us over for dinner every Friday and feed us enough to last a week (now I understand why so many missionaries in the Spanish
program gain so much weight...) Plus, they're basically willing to drop everything to help us out. Por ejemplo, yesterday it was 8:00 at night and we didn't have a ride home. We finally called them and
explained our situation and their response was "Where are you?" Oh man. They're life savers. We got home before our pumpkin time (:

3. Definitely using the Spanish more. Because I can talk to investigators AND members in Spanish. I feel like my ability to understand has already gotten better which is sweet.

4. Yes, thanks. However, one thing I've decided to do thanks to conference is to either send stuff home or donate it to the sisters exchange so that I don't have so much stuff. So I'll probably be
sending a box home pretty soon.

5. Yes, and it was awesome! Man I love conference. Every time. I ended up just taking one question to conference and got a lot of revelation the first session, but then it was cool to keep getting promptings every now and then throughout the other sessions. We decided to watch one of the speakers in Spanish (the second Elder that gave his talk in Spanish) and I got less out of it than I hoped but still managed to catch bits and pieces.  What we ended up actually doing for conference
was this: went to the Schaumburg stake center on Saturday and then to the Bloomingdale chapel on Sunday; the members showed it in Spanish at the chapel on Sunday so we were there because of our investigators that came, but us and the other hermanas went off into another room and watched it in English on the iPads.

One sad thing: of all the times for the internet to go out, it had to be during Elder Holland's talk. I think we all died a little bit every time it stopped working....so we only watched about half of the talk,
unfortunately. It also had problems during President Uchtdorf's but not as bad. haha but so now I'll have to go listen to/watch Elder Holland's talk again. haha guess there are worse things.. (:

This week really quick: has been so weird. Random crazy things have happened and it has not been a normal week (hehe see what I did there...? haha) but the best thing (other than conference) was the
mission conference yesterday. SO GOOD. It was all about Joseph Smith and the First Vision, and then about 50 missionaries shared their testimonies. So it was a fantastic spiritual meeting. And it was
pretty great to only have to drive ~30 minutes to get there, rather than 2 and a half hours...haha
Plus, I got to talk to Elder Craig (the Spanish elder that took over my old area) and, good news! Angelina and Maria are still on date for 25 April! Hopefully I'll get to go, but I'm not so sure (Hna Grant couldn't go to one of her investigator's baptisms when we were in Peoria because we were in Peoria....so I'm worried I won't be able to go because it's in Peoria) but at the very least I can Skype. (: AND! They put Mayra on date for 2 May! So cool. She's the sister of a recent convert of about a year. So I'm pretty stoked for that. Woohoo!

Well, that's about it for this week. Sorry. I just can't think of what to say. Oh! I tried elote this week. It's life changing. Find a panaderia somewhere in Utah and find elote. It was delicious....

And: one of the newest Elders (of last week's transfer) looks like half Daniel Radcliffe, half Wyatt Duclos. I'm not sure how it's possible, but it is.

Now that's it. Love you all! The Gospel's true!
- Hermana DeBuck

P.S. The title of this week's email is courtesy of an Elder from Italy.

Week 30: ì¿ Cuál Es Tu Pedo?!

5 Questions--

1) What was your transfer situation?  I got the feeling in your last letter you might be leaving Normal.  What happened?

2) What do you do as missionaries over General Conference Weekend?  I would guess it is a different schedule for you.

3) Did you get to watch/listen to the Women's session?

4) Have you had any tornado warnings out there yet?  What do you do in case of one?  Is there an emergency plan for your area?

5) Did the box get there?

1. Well so we knew Hermana Araujo would be going home, for obvious reasons, but then transfer calls happened and I'm leaving too. (More on me later) As for Bloomington-Normal, there will now be Spanish Elders in the area, and it is exactly what this area needs. So it's good. Of course I'm sad but I know this is not only what the area needs, but what I need too. I trust President Fenn and know he is inspired.

2. We get to watch Conference.....at least as far as I know. It also means 4 times the possibility of getting someone to church! So we're pretty stoked about that. (:

3. Yes! Oh, it was so good. I loved all of the talks....especially Sister Oscarson's. I think hers was my favorite.

4. Nope. Every first Tuesday of the month the alarm goes off though. Just as a practice. Kinda scared me the first time. But now I don't even notice. I do wonder what happens if there's a tornado the first
Tuesday of the month though....how would people know it's actually happening? [I suppose they could just look out their window...]

5. Nope. But being in Peoria (maybe other places too, I dunno) the only opportunity we have to get packages is zone trainings/conferences or meetings up in Naperville. So I'll probably get it tomorrow.

So here's what's going on with me:
I'm going to Bloomingdale! haha I am going to be so confused for the longest time, and probably call the town Bloomington for ever. haha but anyway. Here's what I know: it's a Spanish branch and my new companion is Hermana Hunsaker. We'll be co-senior companions. If I'm not mistaken, she was originally called to Peru but due to sickness/injury was reassigned here. She also has the voice of an
angel, so comp stud should be thrilling.

I'm terribly upset the Hermana Araujo is leaving, but I guess that's what happens: you die.

But hey, parents: Hermana Araujo will be in Utah for General Conference so you can meet her too! Also, she's taking my winter stuff home so....hopefully you can get that from her this weekend. I'm gonna give her your number(s) so she can get in contact with you. Okay? haha I hope so b/c that's what is happening.

I can't think of a whole ton to say so that's about it.

This week was pretty dang awesome--dare I say the best of my mission so far? But, that's all I have to say... (:

More next week!
Love, Hermana DeBuck

Week 29: If Only We Were Hamsters

5 Questions: 

1) Did your box of clothes find you yet?

2) How are the reading lessons going with your investigator?

3) How was the Temple?

4) Do the Nauvoo missionaries serve anywhere else in IL?  Or are they like the temple square missionaries?  Or do you even know?

5) How often do you have district or zone or mission meetings/conferences?  Where do they have them? What kind of travel arrangements do you have to make when you go to those?

Fasten your seatbelts: this is probably the longest email you'll ever get from me--plus pictures.

1. Not yet. I imagine it will next week though, as it's transfer week (as much as we wish it wasn't...)

2. We've actually only taught her twice, but she can write her name as well as "Jesucristo" which is really all you need right? She's also learning the alphabet so we're helping her with that too, but she's had some health complications as well as having to work so it's been hard to meet with her.

3. Just the same as any temple I suppose. Which is to say AMAZING!!! I remember hearing about that quote from a general authority about how you can learn something new in the temple every time you go so I was really trying to learn something new and I did! Heavenly Father definitely answers prayers, in case you were wondering.

4. We actually just talked to one of our investigators about this--she visits Nauvoo frequently. My understanding is that the missionaries serving there serve for 6 months and then go somewhere else, but I'm not sure where. Or if this is actually true to be honest. We did have the opportunity to talk with one of the sisters in the temple as we were leaving and she was saying their mission in the temple is only for a year--she and her husband served in Salt Lake for 5 years, and they were also temple president in one of the Mexico temples, as well as president of the MTC in Colombia so that was super cool!

5. We have district meeting every week, Wednesday at 10:30, unless we have zone training or conference. And I'm not exactly sure for zone training or conference, but I think we have them each once a transfer. In case you're going to ask, here's the difference between training and conference (as far as I can tell): zone conference is longer. And the way it works in our mission, zone conference/training includes two zones; in our case it's the two zones in the Peoria stake--Peoria East and Peoria West. Who comes? All the missionaries serving in those zones, plus President and Sister Fenn, the Assistants to the President, the Tech Elders, and one set of Sister/Hermana Training Leaders. Plus some of the office missionaries, particularly Elder Hall who is the vehicle coordinator and always has some helpful instruction for us (at Sisters Conference it was "How to Not Be Mugged") (:

So this week was awesome.

A. Thursday 19 March 2015: all of the sisters and hermanas in the Illinois Chicago West mission were in Naperville on Thursday to be instructed by our training leaders, Sister and President Fenn. It was amazing! President Fenn spoke about the Priesthood and I feel like I understand so much better now. It was spectacular. ("The Priesthood isn't about men, it's about God." If you read in D&C 132, I can't remember which verse exactly, when it's talking about the blessings we receive if we're faithful to covenants and inherit the celestial kingdom, you'll notice it says "they" and "them" rather than "him" and "his". As women, we are entitled to the exact same blessings as the men, IF we are faithful. There is absolutely NO reason that we would need to hold the Priesthood.)

Sister Fenn spoke about what may be the hardest commandment to keep: "Be ye therefore perfect". She talked specifically about being perfect (as in whole or complete) versus being a perfectionist.

And then all of the sister/hermana training leaders' training were phenomenal. It was just so great. I love women's meetings; there's a certain sense of camaraderie that you can't get any other way.

We were also able to sing, all of the sisters and hermanas, I Believe in Christ for President and Sister Fenn--it was written by Sister Fenn's father so it's a hymn near and dear to the heart. (The sisters sang the first verse, hermanas second, third in parts, and fourth in unison) President and Sister Fenn were both brought to tears. It was really powerful.

Because we live so far away, we drove up to Naperville Wednesday night and slept over at the Hermana Training Leaders' apartment, like we did for mission conference. Then, driving back took a really long time so we had about an hour in our area, but because we worked hard and did everything we could and prayed with faith, we were able to contact 10 new people in that one hour--gas stations are our friend.

B. Saturday 21 March 2015: We had no appointments so we did a lot of finding and contacting people, plus some stop bys, and once again, "I [gave] way to temptations, that the evil one [had] place in my heart to destroy my peace and afflict my soul". But, we were able to work through it and we were stronger afterwards and then we were able to contact 40 new people throughout the day! It was amazing.

C. Monday 23 March 2015: Since we went to the temple today, Monday was a regular proselyting day, and we ended up having appointments almost all day--we taught 5 lessons in total--so we had next to no time to do any contacting. Our last appointment was at 7:30, but due to regular life circumstances, we were late to that appointment and therefore got out late. We ended up with approximately 5 minutes to contact, and we had only invited 5 people earlier in the day. However, we were determined to invite as many people as possible so we parked at the McDonald's on Main Street and started walking. We had found and invited 4 people then had to go back to the car; so we were at 9 for the day. I was praying so hard, "Heavenly Father, please let someone be coming out of McDonald's when we come around the corner." Then, we turn the corner and I look at the door: two young men are walking out. So I do what any missionary would do: "Hey! Can we give you a card?" If that's not an answer to a prayer, I don't know what is. I know that Heavenly Father hears and answers prayers, and rewards us exponentially when we put forth even a little bit of effort. It was amazing. 

D. La familia Albrechtsen: we didn't have a dinner appointment on Sunday so they invited us over. Monday we had dinner and a lesson in their home. They drove us missionaries to the temple today. Basically, they're just going to adopt us. Mom, Dad, I don't think I'm ever coming home. 

As far as this week goes, it's gonna be awesome! As long as Tuesday never comes, we'll be fine. Hermana Araujo and I are tearing it up here in Bloomington-Normal. Three of our investigators--a family--are on date for 25 April but we are doing everything we can to help the mom be baptized this Saturday. She's so ready and she loves the Gospel and the Church. I know it's possible.

Something I learned this week during personal study comes from 3 Nephi chapter 3. I read about Gidgiddoni, who was made chief commander of the armies. In verse 19, we read that he had the spirit of revelation and also prophecy, and then that Gidgiddoni was a prophet among the people. Then, in verse 20, we see that the people want to attack the robbers (rightly so, I think. They were pretty bad dudes.) And the people want their prophet, their commander, to pray to the Lord and basically say "this is what we're gonna do". But, in verse 21, their great prophet tells them "Uh no. I don't think so. That ain't gonna fly." And so from all this, we learn that the people CANNOT counsel the prophet, but the prophet can and should counsel the people. This is because he has been authorized, given authority, by the Lord to do so. We can trust our prophets because they have this authority. They will not lead us astray because they are God's mouthpiece. "You can always trust living prophets." (True to the Faith)

I know the Gospel is true, and that families CAN be together forever. This is only made possible through the priesthood power and authority of God, which was restored to the earth through God's chosen prophet, Joseph Smith. He could not have done what he did without divine help, and I know that he had it. Through which, he was able to translate the Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ so that we can know how to return to live with God again after this life. God is our Heavenly Father, and He wants us to return to Him. Because He loves us, He has provided one way. There's no need to be confused about which road to take because there are only two: the one that leads to our heavenly home and eternal life, and the one that leads to eternal misery with the enemy of our souls. It is an easy decision for me. Which one will you choose?

Todo Mi Amor,

Tu Hija y Amiga,

Hermana DeBuck

P.S. 

Can anyone tell me why I have perpetual hiccups? It's the strangest thing. One day we counted and was 60 times. But it's not like a regular bout of hiccups...I'll hiccup once and then anywhere from 1 minute to an hour or so later, I'll hiccup again. We think it's more prevalent when I've been sitting for a while....I'm not sure what's wrong.

Also, we talked to a recently returned Elder in the Normal ward, who served in the San Jose mission--including in Gilroy. I said my grandparents live there, the Boomgaardens. His response: "No way!" He said Brother Boomgaarden told the greatest stories about cars. Yup, that's my grandpa! (: haha so that was pretty cool.

I meant to say this last week, and maybe I did but I'm not sure: keep your eye out for calf-length skirts. I wear basically the same three skirts every day because the other ones I have are just short enough to make me feel like I'm not being exactly obedient. Just if you see any, make note or something. That's my suggestion for a birthday box of some kind....just so you know. I dunno if there are gonna be many available as it's beginning to get into springtime so they'll probably just have shorter and shorter skirts. But just so you know. Thanks! (:

Fotos:

 

One of the Relief Societies had an International Night, and one of the sisters brought these (she's from Canada) (:

Note from Jill's Mom:  These are the exact treats we adopted from a set of our cousins--whose other grandma is from Canada--they are called Nanaimo Bars and are a favorite family holiday TREAT at our home.

 

We played "the prayer game" with some members and an investigators, talking about how we need to ask actual questions in order to receive answers. So fun!

Us at the temple this morning! Aren't we cute? (I have more pictures, but they'll have to wait until another week...)

  

Mom Note: This group picture was shared on a Mission Moms page--Hma DeBuck didn't share it, but it was from this temple trip, so I include it for all the grandma and grandpas' sakes..

Week 28: Apparently My Morning Face Looks Somewhat Murderous

5 Questions: 

1) What do you mean about iPads "finally knowing"?  I've not heard anything.  Are you going to be purchasing your iPad?  How soon do we need to have the money in your account?  Where would I have heard this news?

2) What aversion do you have to treats?  I didn't think I'd sent so much.

3) Are there any other tops/skirts we want sent?  I noticed your minty missionary skirt is in the closet in your room.  Do you want that one or the camel/tan one?

4) Did I tell you Vitaly G. was just called to your mission?  I can't remember.  He's headed to the MTC in July.

5) Any more thoughts on sending home winter gear?  I think that might be the easiest way to deal with your clothes.

Did you not get an email from the mission....? Because you should have.... I'll talk to the office missionaries and make sure that they've got the right email for you.....cause....yeah. Basically, I don't know the answers to any of the questions you asked about the iPads so hopefully that email does.

2. I guess I don't have an aversion to treats at all. haha they're fine. Last week I think I was feeling sick and didn't think about the repercussions of asking you not to send treats ever again. 

3. I would love both of those skirts. Basically, I'm realizing that the majority of my clothing is very winter/cold-weather appropriate. And what with the humidity here, I'm imagining that I will want some lighter clothing here pretty soon....but at this point I can't remember what exactly I left so I'm afraid I can't give you specifics. 

4. Yes you did. And this last week, on Tuesday, I talked to Elder B who is also from PG. I told him another one just got called to our mission, and he was pretty excited. haha

5. I guess I could send it home...what would be the best way to do that?

First off, before I forget, next week I won't email on Monday, but on Tuesday. WE'RE GOING TO THE TEMPLE!!!! So P-day will be on Tuesday. We are so excited. Once again, it is a blessed dispensation/transfer so we get to go to the Nauvoo temple. I can't even tell you how stoked I am. For everyone reading this who has a temple within three hours of their home, GO! You don't realize how much you love the temple until you're a missionary and you're only allowed to go every three transfers. Just sayin'.

Second, I'm not sure what to say about this week.

I'm still learning, every day, every week, that I am an imperfect being and I make the same mistakes over and over again. And part of the repentance process is forsaking your sins--abandoning them. But, Heavenly Father will NEVER give up on us. No matter how many times I mess up, He will always be there, ready to give me another chance. And we are SO blessed to have that opportunity, and the knowledge of that opportunity. The Atonement truly is the greatest event that has ever happened in the entire history of the world. It touches the greatest amount of people--everyone who has lived, is living, or will yet live--and lasts for the longest amount of time--forever. It is an infinite sacrifice (Alma 34:11); it applies in every single moment of every single person's life on the earth.

There is nothing we can do that will make that gift not there. It has always been available and will always be available. But, it is up to us to accept that gift and to utilize it in our lives. We have been given our agency, the ability to choose, and God will not force anything upon us--including the one thing that will bring us back to Him. It is up to us to apply the healing power of the Atonement and come unto Christ, with full purpose of heart (2 Nephi 31:13), willing to give up our sins and turn to Christ with a perfect brightness of hope (2 Nephi 31:20). And I know that is true. He wants us to come back to Him, and He will do everything in His power to bring us back--as long as we let Him. It is my hope that each of may evaluate our lives and do everything we can each day to "try a little harder to be a littler better" (President Gordon B. Hinckley).

I love the restored of Gospel of Jesus Christ. I know it is the one thing that brings us thee most happiness in life, and I know God will not force it upon us. Each of us must choose to take it into our hearts and truly live it in order to receive each and every one of the promised blessings that Heavenly Father has for us.

Todo Mi Amor,

Tu Hija y Amiga,

Hermana DeBuck

Week 27: "What IS that? A Potion?" "A Smoothie...."

5 Questions:

1) How are your shoes holding up?  Boots still keeping your feet warm and dry?

2) Did I tell you Aubrie B. (from the 3rd ward) was getting married in June?  Do you remember her from camp?

3) In case I never told you, THANK YOU for doing all the hard work on scholarships without me!  I just sat down with Cameron to do the essay for one.  Yikes!  You'd think I was burning him with hot coals. I guess that one wasn't really a question.  Oh well.

4) I found two new undershirts.  Do you want me to send them now, or wait a few more weeks.  They are short sleeved.

5) How are things going with your newest Companion, now that you've been together  couple of weeks?

1. The new boots are great! haha unfortunately the snow is practically melted and it feels like spring time, but they're awesome! I will be very glad for them next winter, I promise you that. [I am so glad this winter wasn't a polar vortex like last winter....that was my biggest/most prominent fear with this mission call.]

2. No you didn't tell me. But yes I remember her. She's into Harry Potter, therefore I like her. haha but if I remember correctly, wasn't she Bellatrix or Prof. Trelawney for Halloween one year? Tell her congratulations for me please! Thanks (:

3. You're welcome. Basically I just didn't want to have to have a job during school....at least for the first year.

4. If you could send them, that would be great. And if it's not too much trouble, can I bother you to send a few of the shirts I have? I'm realizing that I have a lot of long sleeved shirts and now that it's getting warmer....I think I'll want some short sleeved shirts too. But I don't want you to have to send me a package every transfer mom. It's expensive! No rush, really. Also, haha you don't need to send me candy every time. Like, don't. Please. [DO send: I know I have a black/white striped shirt, light blue shirt, and i think a purple shirt that are all short sleeves. Could you send those? It'd be much appreciated.]

5. It's going well! Hermana Araujo is like the sister I never had in that we don't get along super well sometimes but we still always love each other. We're learning to communicate because we communicate in different ways--not bad, just different. Well, I probably communicate badly. haha but it's a work in progress. It's good though, overall.

First off: I am so grateful that EVERYONE in the Illinois Chicago West mission is/strives to be exactly obedient. Just saying.

Second: Wow. I'm tired. I don't even know what happened this week.... So let's make a list:

1. In a study room of the Bloomington library, we taught a four-fingered man who LOVES the Bible.

2. A woman we taught was kinda sort of deaf and I was sitting just too far away from her (I guess) so I basically yelled anything I wanted to say during the lesson.

3. Hermana Araujo kind of told me I sound like a Mexican. Woohoo!

4. We're going to teach Julia how to read. She was so excited that she was almost sweating. I'm so excited too.

5. We ate at a place called Windy City Weiners today and got chili cheese dogs. I think I still prefer Weinerschnitzel but it was good.

6. It's finally spring time! I mean, it was 51 degrees Fahrenheit this weekend! it was amazing. Like, I don't even need to wear a coat nor leggings. Glorious I tell you. (:

7. I still think talking to drunk people is one of the funniest things we get to do as missionaries. Sometimes it's weird, but sometimes it's funny.

8. Sister Goodman in Bloomington 1st ward, is my new role model. She's so happy and positive and kind all the time. She told us about this process she does of mental self evaluation basically anytime she has a mean thought. "Is this thought harming me and my spiritual growth? Is it bringing me closer to the Savior or taking me further from Him?" It's brilliant. She ought to write a book. (: haha she's lovely. Plus, she's from Louisiana and has a cute accent.

9. I finished my first chapstick and my first pen this week. The next pen I used is basically an exact replica of the first so no problems there. But the new chapstick I was using made my lips feel swollen. Oh man. No bueno.

10. I guess I could update you on my own personal pride cycle. Okay. So, let's face it: I'm a prideful human being. But I have accomplished the first step of repentance: recognition. And now I'm working on doing the actual changing. But I think I'm getting better at noticing right away that I need to change my behavior. The hard part is making the change right then and forgetting about whatever happened. Luckily, mi companera is very patient with me, and also forgiving. She's amazing I tell you. Of course we have our differences but at the end of the day, those don't matter. We're both here to work, we're both daughters of a Heavenly Father, and we're sisters. So the biggest thing I'm working on is just forgetting the things that bother me or irritate me or anger me and focusing on what's most important: saving souls. And that's what I've been told all along but I was so prideful that I didn't even recognize that I had a problem and the truth hurts (1 Nephi 16:2) but now I am very intent to keep Satan out of my head and stop letting him control me. I am in control of my own thoughts and my emotions and my body, not him. And as I learn to rely on the Savior, I know I can overcome any temptation that comes my way.

One thing I learned this morning: while I was studying obedience, I read 1 Nephi 3:7. I know you know it:"for I know that the Lord giveth no commandment unto the children of men save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth" [or something  like that] 

What I learned this morning is that God will "prepare a way" in two different manners:

1. You are able to be obedient to the commandment

2. You try to be obedient put give in to temptation and do not, accept and use the Atonement, repent, and try again. You repeat this process until you are able to keep the commandment.

And that was just beautiful to me! I know God wants me to be humble so that I may be a better instrument in His hands. And although I may not succeed the first time, I know that He will provide a way for me to be humble in the end. All I have to do is give it my all, and I know he will provide a way.

Unfortunately, I am about 50 pages behind in my Book of Mormon reading challenge. ....oops. But you know what, I think it's because I've been trying to study more for my investigators. And of course I always learn things from the Book of Mormon and usually something for them, but I think it might be better this way. I'll just have to read like 100 pages today. haha (I wish I could just read the Book of Mormon all day. That's going on the bucket list.) (:

I know the Gospel's true. This is the restored Church of Jesus Christ and He is at the head. He works through living prophets and apostles and I am so excited for General Conference. I know we will hear the voice of the Lord as we listen to His chosen servants. I know that Joseph Smith was foreordained to be the prophet of this dispensation. Through him, Jesus Christ restored His Gospel to the earth once more, never to be taken again. I know that the Book of Mormon is the word of God because it has changed my life. It truly is the tool to gather scattered Israel in these latter days. I know that through the Atonement of my Brother and Savior, Jesus Christ, my weaknesses can be made strengths (Ether 12:27) so that I am able to fulfill every command that He gives me (1 Nephi 3:7).

Todo Mi Amor,

Tu Hija y Amiga,

Hermana DeBuck

Week 26: It's Official: I've Become My Mother

5 Questions:

1)    Do you remember taking a tour of USU before deciding to go there?  Or did you decide to go there and then tour the campus?  I couldn't remember this weekend, as Cameron has decided and we finally got to go tour it. 

2)    Any memory of what kind of "fun money" budget you had at school last year?

3)    Did you remember it was Dad's birthday this past week?  He loved the book--and has been reading it all weekend.

4)    Can you believe Daylight Savings Time is beginning NEXT Sunday already?!?

5)    What is your typical procedure to send photos/email to us each P-Day?  Where do you go?  How long do you have?

Those are some good lookin' parents! Glad to see Dad still can't smile when a camera is near, but at least he's looking at the lens. Baby steps right? haha and momma your glasses make you look extra smart! I mean, not that you need any help....haha it always was a little weird getting a new prescription of glasses for me too. Takes some getting used to.

1. I think I had already decided because it was going to be the cheapest option for me. Then we went in the spring for SOAR or whatever it was. I think I did tour U of U before I decided though...just because we were already in Salt Lake or something. Clearly it didn't really affect my decision.

2. In reality, I don't think I gave myself a budget. I started out with one, but I don't think I stuck with it--I know, it's terrible. Basically I didn't spend a ton of money except for on food; that was almost everything. If we went to dinner as roommates or something, I didn't have a problem with that. I think I just limited it to once a week MAX. And just tried to be conscientious of my money. Sorry that doesn't help a ton.

3. I remembered it was Dad's birthday on Dad's birthday because it's on the calendar. Unfortunately I couldn't do much about it the day of....so HAPPY BIRTHDAY PAPI!! Glad you like the book. I'll be honest, when I bought it, I had relatively little idea what it was actually about. So I'm glad it's handy and not useless.

4. No. It feels like just last month was Daylight Savings....because it messes up our Area Book Planner app. And it feels like that just happened...but I guess not.

5. Usually we go to the church in the afternoon, around 2 or so, because we've finished cleaning and shopping and laundry and whatnot. Today is different though, which I will talk about more later on.

First off, this week I turned into a complete sobbing blubbering baboon. And while there are multiple causes for this outcome, there is only one I will be mentioning at this time: I have been so very prideful. And it's gotten me into trouble, and will continue to do so unless I do something about it.

Hence, I have done quite a bit of self-evaluation. And I have come to a variety of conclusions:
1. I have terrible communication skills, and the way in which I do manage to communicate is not a way people are used to.

2. I detest making decisions, which is in fact a life skill. Ergo, I need to develop said skill.

3. I need to be more humble. I need to accept when I am in the wrong, accept the constructive criticism and run with it, apply it. I need to be willing to change and improve so that I can be the missionary Heavenly Father wants me to be.
4. I need to stop taking things so personally; this would avoid a lot of confusion.
5. I need to show more emotion so that I can be properly understood. [Remember when Grandma and Grandpa gave me my Escort for my birthday? And Grandpa thought I didn't like it? yeah, that's basically what happens. I truly am excited but I don't do a very good job of acting like it....sorry again Grandpa.]
6. I need to forget myself and go to work--24/7. If I do this, everything else will (hypothetically) fall into place.

As you can tell, this is quite the list. And becoming humble--for me--is quite the process. So I'm beginning with just one of these issues and hopefully the rest will follow. Until that time, there will
most likely be continued confusion and irritation. And I'm not sure what else I can do about it. I guess only time will tell.

On a happier note, Bishop found Mary's membership record number! What a miracle. Now the process to get her re-baptized will get going, I think. She was so excited to tell us. It was awesome.

We have seen so many miracles already! I think I said that last week, but it's still true! Hermana Araujo is an amazing missionary, and just wants to work hard. It's inspiring, really. I've been thinking that I have been SO blessed to have such old (with regard to the mission) companions. Because when it gets down to crunch time, all they want to do is work. And of course I want to as well, but with companions like this it's just so much better. I can't really explain it.

This morning, while studying, I found this scripture, in Proverbs 28:25:
He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the Lord shall be made fat.

So the goal is, by the end of my mission, to be fat. Maybe this is one reason so many missionaries put on weight while serving. They're just putting their trust in the Lord! haha (but for real)

I know the Gospel's true! If it wasn't, you can bet I wouldn't be here freezing my body parts off. But it is. Joseph Smith is a prophet called of God, and through him Christ restored His true Church to the earth once more. The Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ and allows us to know more fully our Elder Brother and Savior. I receive strength every day as I study from its pages, and I know you can too. I know that through the Atonement, we truly can be made perfect and become at one with God--we just have to put forth a little effort first, and He'll make up the rest. I love this Gospel and I wouldn't be me without it.

Todo Mi Amor,

Tu Hija y Amiga,

Hermana DeBuck