Week 58: In Case of Lightning, Avoid Power Tootles

5 Questions:
1) I know you don't want to think about it, but do you REALLY know when you are coming home?  I saw on Maddie Giles' blog post this past week she has a release date.  I'm just curious if you know yours.
2) Can you make a list of "church" words in Spanish that I could learn so I have the words to use for help with some of our little Latina ladies in the temple?  I can't just Google-translate some of those things.
3) When are you thinking you want the winter stuff sent?  It's been so warm here, I don't want to burden you with them too early, but I don't want you to freeze without it when you DO need it.
4) Any change in the investigator pool in Rochelle?

1. Well, I mean, I don't know anything official, but the transfer I should be going home, hypothetically, is March 3. So exactly 18 months from my report date. So, March 3 will be my flight back to Utah and hopefully you'll be there to pick me up.
2. Um, yes. I will compile a list... (where do I begin...?)
3. If you will just send it to the mission office so that it gets here by the 23rd, that would be perfect. Then I'll get it at transfers (or someone will bring it with them) which is the following Tuesday. That would be perfect I think.
4. Not particularly. We're down to about three solid investigators, but the struggle is getting any of them to come to church. But, poco a poco, we're getting there. I hope.

Unfortunately, I don't have a ton of time this week. We have an appointment at 5 in a town about twenty minutes away. So, my companion is a doll and is letting me copy her email for the week. Sorry, but this is about as good as it's gonna get this week. Here's what she said:

"This week we got TiWis. Some of you know what that is but for those who don't, it's a driving decide that tells how we are driving. If we speed, drive to aggressively, driving without seatbelts so it is a good thing Hna DeBuck and I were already driving safely! But we had those installed this week during zone conference which means, we had to be there at 7 am. That was a little killer. But that is okay!

My hand got shut in the window this last week. Thankfully nothing happened, it was more surprising than anything. I stuck my hand out again today and my mind started freaking out. I had totally  forgotten about it until that moment. Silly brain.

Also we have had some fun with this gross bug. We found out it is a house centipede, but it's fast and scary looking! We've had two of them now! Gross...

We have also been teaching this really awesome couple. Man are they so prepared. They have had interactions with missionaries for about a year and a half by now and every time we teach them, I just wonder why they aren't baptized! Their prayers are just so sincere and simple! It's so sweet.

It has been such a good week! I can't even use words. One thing I loved was that the relief society had an activity on the atonement, and it was truly amazing! It was a little funny because one of the
speakers is a counselor so it was kind of a free therapy session, but it was good and I took so many notes. I learned a lot of things and have learned to love the scripture Ether 12:27 even more. Truly no
words. I hope everyone has had a good week and stay safe this coming week!"

The Gospel is true and it is the only way for us to be with our families forever! Our responsibility as missionaries and members of the Church of Jesus Christ is to help people qualify for that divine blessing! I love you all.

Love, Hermana DeBuck

Fotos:
1. Take a gander at this here house centipede. Isn't it quite disgusting? I killed it at 6:20 this morning. No one should be required to murder small insects at that time of day...

2. Illinois sunset. I will never get over how lovely they are.

3. Two of the people I had the privilege of teaching in my last area (Bloomingdale) were baptized this weekend! I wasn't able to attend--I did get to call and talk to them though--but I stole a picture from Hermana Hunsaker. (Thanks!) (: This couple was recently married and is planning on going to the temple in a year--I will definitely be there for that!

 

4. Here's the after-effects of my stepping on a nail--and this was after washing out my shoe twice! Ah well. It'll forever be a weird shade of faded red....haha and just so everyone knows, I did get a tetanus shot before I reported as a missionary, so I'm totally fine.

5. Some things never change, one of which is my grammar Nazi side. This sign just kills me....haha love it.

Sent from my iPad

Week 57: "(I Cooked)"

First off, to all my Hermanas reading this: I love you. Okay? Okay.  Now, other items.

5 Questions:
1) Did you get to watch all the sessions of conference?
2) Did any investigators come to watch too?
3) What were your overall feelings about conference?
4) Did you have a favorite talk?
5) What did you learn in conference that will immediately help you in your calling as a missionary?

1. Yes, we did watch all the sessions. However, we watched both morning sessions in Spanish with our one Spanish speaking Hermana who came. It made me realize just how much my Spanish ability has grown over the past year. When i first arrived in the field I could speak Spanish pretty well but understanding what was being said was such a struggle for me. But now, I feel like I not only understand the gist of what is said but I also get a lot of the details. Granted, it helps that they talked about gospel related things because my "worldly" vocabulary leaves something to be desired... But anyway. Yes we watched all the sessions (minus priesthood session of course) and oh boy was it amazing. Exactly what I needed.
2. Unfortunately we had no investigators there. Two were planning on coming but then didn't so we're thinking they may have had to work. And then two told us they might come if their already-made-plans fell through--but they didn't fall through. Ah well. Next week, someone will be at church. I'm going to do all I can to get people there and THEN hand it over to the Lord.
3. Overall feelings about conference? How do you sum up eight hours of a spiritual marathon? I don't think it's possible.... But I suppose if I were to put it into just a few words, it would be this: I know that God is so aware of each and every one of us, particularly me. But I know He doesn't love me anymore than He loves you, whoever you may be, reading this. I know He hears and answers our prayers, but He answers them in His way and in His time. If we are too focused on doing things our way, then we will surely miss the answers and blessings He is trying to give us. The two biggest obstacles of life--death and sin--have been taken care of, through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. The next biggest obstacle keeping you from reaching your eternal potential is you. But if you will let God direct you, if you will give your will to Him, He will make far more of you than you could ever make of yourself. So the questions that remains to be asked is this: will you let Him?
4. My favorite talk was President Uchtdorf's from the Saturday morning session. Now, I honestly can't tell you why it was my favorite other than the fact that it was exactly what I needed to hear in the moment that I needed to hear it. Perhaps it was simply because it was the first talk of this semiannual general conference, because all I really needed to know was that God was aware of me, that my Father in Heaven was thinking of me, looking out for me. And from the very moment that President Uchtdorf began speaking, I knew He was there. And that was the only thing I needed to know then.
5. Again, how do you expect me to sum that up? Well, I'll begin with my notes from the talk by Elder Bradley D. Foster. Near the beginning of his talk, he said something to the effect of "Children are just like really young investigators". The very first thought I had from the Spirit was "If children = investigators, investigators = children." So literally everything He said is applicable to missionary work. I loved his example of Helen Keller. Although she was majorly impaired, she was still able to learn--but her teacher had to figure out how to teach her so that she would be able to learn. The way I see it, some of our investigators (the people we teach who are investigating the church) may be more like Helen Keller than a child who can see and hear. Not because they are impaired, but simply because we, as their teachers, have to figure out how they learn so that we can teach to their needs. Some of the people we teach need more guidance while others may come to their own conclusion of what is the truth with us only teaching the doctrine of truth. But however a person may learn, it doesn't matter. Because "it is never too early and never too late to begin the process". As their teachers, we want them to trust us and know that they can come to us with doubts and concerns they may have. We may not be able to answer every question right away, but we know that the restored Gospel of Jesus Christ has all the answers. We also don't want to be too much a part of their lives, but we do want them to know that we are on their side. And when it really comes down to it, it doesn't matter when we're ready to teach; what matters is when they're ready to learn.

Mom Note:  Our friends are serving as mission president and "first lady" of the Athens, Greece Mission, and "first lady" LeeAnn had written to me to ask about something Jill's Mission President is doing with the Chicago West missionaries that they call the activity "Fit for the Kingdom".  She asked about it, so I had told Jill I shared that info:
In response to the question from LeeAnn about Fit for the Kingdom, literally all I know is what is contained in that newsletter. Maybe I'll hear something more this week at zone training but I don't know. Sorry I can't be of more help.

Also, at zone training, our cars will be getting a TiWi system which will help our mission be a little safer. So that's gonna be fun!

As for this last week, let's just say it was really stressful and really funny all at the same time. Here is a brief summary of the not-so-spiritual points of my week:

• we left a note on every single door of a house because we're not exactly sure if someone actually lives there. We'll go back this week and see if anything has changed
• we taught the friend of our investigator and her name is Rita but she goes by the nickname "Guera". For all you gringos, that basically means "white girl". Based on the color of her skin, you'd never guess she's Latina, but she is. Hence, the nickname. (Also, Guera and Gloria both added us on Facebook. We're totally gonna be best buds for life.) (: Also, our investigator was totally doing missionary work, telling her friend that she should read the Book of Mormon. She's the best.
• On Wednesday we did our weekly planning and to begin we asked Heavenly Father to PLEASE help us finish in the time we had, and he did. Final time: 2 hours and 15 mins. All 13 steps. #likeaboss
• We met the cutest old lady this week--named Eva--who didn't want to let us in at first because we weren't from her church but then she did and basically begged to give us coffee or tea. (we said no thanks, in case you're wondering.) So she gave us a granola bar instead. Then, at the end of the lesson, when we asked her to read the Book of Mormon, she exclaimed (I literally mean "exclaimed") "Of course!" She's the cutest abuelita of all time.
• One of our members has been totally AWOL for a week or two now and we haven't been able to contact her. But then we just happened to tract into her daughter, so we found out she's just been playing grandma for a niece who was having a baby--in Kansas.
• Because we awkwardly waited for a man to get out of his car, we were able to teach him about the Book of Mormon (he was pretty excited to read it) and then he gave us each a tamale! (Best day ever! Well, maybe not EVER, but it was pretty awesome...)
• We were asked to give a training in district meeting on preaching the gospel two by two, particularly in door approaches. Man, I don't know what we said but I know we said what the Spirit wanted. It was awesome.
• We prayerfully sought which member we could ask to go with us to an appointment and we found the perfect Amulek for this couple we're teaching--we can't wait for the Brother to go with us too. Also, this couple, in response to the baptismal invitation, said, "We hadn't really thought about that." But then you could just tell that they were definitely thinking about it then. They didn't commit to anything in that very moment but I know they will soon. They are so prepared--they met the missionaries about a year ago and had known missionaries before that--and we are totally going to get them baptized and on the path to eternal life. I love them.
• Had one of the greatest finding lessons of all time this week--I could just feel the Spirit guiding my words and then testifying to them of my words. If they accept our invitation to invite someone to be taught in their home (after praying about whom to invite) I know they'll see miracles.
• We were tracting late at night (about 8:30) and found a young man who basically asked us if he could come to church. We weren't able to teach him much but I have a feeling that the Elders will be able to help him progress quickly and soon.
• I got my flu shot and the pharmacist who shot us was the most funny person with a needle I think I've ever met. It was awesome. When she asked us about if we were pregnant or planning on getting pregnant she said, "I know, with the whole mission thing, but I have to ask." So funny.
• we reached our member present lesson goal for the week--the first day of the week. And then, by the end, we had exceeded it. Heavenly Father is so good to us.
• Elder Renlund, one of the newly called Apostles, was totally in our mission just last month for a mission tour. And he basically told us the same things then that he shared at Conference. So cool. (I am SO excited for these three new Apostles. They're going to be amazing servants of the Lord, as I'm sure they already were.)
• one of our members gave us an early Christmas gift: she knits/crochets (?) and made us both ear headband things and scarves. Oh my goodness she is so good to us. (She asked us if we've ever been to a session of general conference and how we get tickets, and one thing led to another, and I told her she can go with me next Conference since I'll be home. She said okay.)
• Took a member to a lesson and she totally asked for a referral for us--and we got one! "Ask and ye shall receive..."
• for dinner one day we had mac n' cheese and cheese-covered cauliflower. It was so delicious.
• We met an elderly couple who told us right away they weren't interested and, when we asked if we could just give them a card with a picture of Jesus on it, the hermana said, "Where's Mary?!" almost at the top of her lungs. It was probably a good thing I didn't have time to say "In Jerusalem" before they closed the door. They made our day.
• we talked to a couple of people standing on their porch (about the wind chimes hanging) which led to them asking us about this crazy greenhouse light that illuminates the entire sky when there are clouds and then we were able to give them both a card. They were really nice. The man said that anytime he sees missionaries, especially during the summer, he always gives them a water. On behalf of all the missionaries in Illinois, thank you!
• We sent a reminder text to our new investigator couple between sessions on Sunday and at some point during the afternoon session, this was the response we got (which took up five text messages): "Thank you for reminding us!!well we left Freeport at 2:10pm and heading home but weren't sure were to get something to eat!! So when we got to the outside skirts of Rockford we decided to go home!! Poor Ida she is dead tired! After you guys left she beginning getting all her stuff ready for the sale today from 8am till 2pm!! But she didn't finished till 2:30am and we had to get up at 5:30am! Since she wouldn't get up i slept till 6am and then we were rushing to eat breakfast (I cooked) and loading the truck with 5 big bags of Tupperware and 4 small bags and we get there at 8:40 am! But I think we will both be going to sleep very shortly!! Good nite! Jose & Ida!" This text message literally made my entire week about 18 times better. All day Sunday we would crack up, laughing, because this was just so perfect. Love this couple.

So that's that. And then I just wanted to share a "brief" summary of what I learned from conference this weekend and last. I wrote out about a one sentence summary of what I learned either directly from the speaker or through the Spirit. I hope and pray that something that I learned will be beneficial to someone else who reads this. I know that our Heavenly Father loves us and wants to help us, but He usually does so through the people around us.

• Live life (including mission life) one day at a time.
• Doing what God wants gives us the strength and power to face any and all trials.
• I am a part of the cause of Christ. I am bringing people to Him and it is my responsibility to be prepared to receive all the blessings God wants to give me--including eternal marriage.
• Don't dwell on the sad and disappointing things. Look for the good and then focus on it!
• Starting with where you're at now (now where you used to be), look at your life with an eternal perspective and then simplify. It is then you'll be able to become the person you want to be and God wants you to be.
• Be loyal to Christ and all His chosen servants (prophets, apostles, stake presidents, bishops, mission presidents, zone and district leaders, etc.)
• If we want to make our lives something of value, we must center our lives on Jesus Christ, the Master Crafter.
• If there is something "ungood" you're holding on to, it will inhibit you from spiritually progressing if you don't let it go--this includes wanting to do things your way instead of Christ's way.
• I must be humble enough to ask "What lack I yet?" and then faithful enough to change and act according to the response.
• True repentance--true change-- requires consistent diligence in each and every step toward eternal life.
• I must learn to exercise self-control now, as a missionary, in order to be better prepared for whatever curve balls may come after.
• The choices I'm making now are shaping my eternal destiny; I need to be the kind of person I want to marry.
• Although our "nature" may not change, our heart CAN change, and I'm doing better than I think I am.
• The people who sincerely investigate the Church may be compared to children: they're all at different levels but all are capable of learning the truth for themselves (if they want it bad enough and are willing to work for it.)
• Even if I'm stressed or depressed, if I smile, I'll be able to help those who are more stressed or depressed because I have the Gospel of Jesus Christ and a smile. (:
• Sometimes we take on challenges and realize we weren't as ready as we thought, but as we hold fast to the light of Christ, He will sustain us through any and all darkness.
• My motivation as a missionary can't be the equivalent of an investigator's curiosity--it must be pure and simple love; if it's not quite there right now, I can feel to sing the song of redeeming love again as I "bear with patience [mine] afflictions" and turn to the Lord.
• Death and sin are not the only challenges of mortality, but Christ's Atonement covers all that--and everything else.
• Does it really matter where you serve? You can find people to help and teach no matter where you are!
• My call came from Jesus Christ Himself.
• Sometimes we may receive callings or assignments we don't feel qualified to fulfill but remember: the Lord qualifies those whom He calls.
• We cannot fulfill our baptismal covenant unless we learn to see others through God's eyes.
• My job is to keep the vision God has for me at the forefront of my mind, and then to help others do the same. When others lose sight of it, I will be there to comfort them and then to help them remember too.
• Those who cannot withstand the mocking of the world while on the path to eternal life will fall away and then join the mockers and the nay-sayers.
• As we always remember Him, we will be better able to act like Him; it is then that we will have His Spirit to be with us--both literally (because of our baptismal covenant) and figuratively (because we are living like Him).
• It is very possible to have the Spirit with us always, not just occasionally, if we live worthy of it.
• All roads lead to immortality, it's true, but not all roads lead exaltation.
• Don't be deterred; hard can be good!
• There may be times when I will ask if there's no other way, but if I will just keep moving forward, obediently, one step at a time, one day it will end, and one day I'll be exalted with Christ.
• Trust that everything God does is for MY good.
• Things of eternal significance are rarely easy.
• Some followed Christ "for a season" and then "walked with Him no more". I will NOT do that. I will always center my life on Jesus Christ, even after the name tag comes off.
• I need to look for what I can learn from each test and trial, for each has purpose and meaning--I just have to find it.
• God does not spare His chosen servants from afflictions--rather He strengthens them in the midst of them--that includes me.

I'm excited to take on the challenge to "ponderize" a verse of scripture each week for the next 20 years. I'm excited to develop the attributes of a believer and better represent my Savior Jesus Christ. I'm excited to testify of the First Vision and all that followed it, for I know it to be eternal truth. I'm excited for the challenges ahead, for I know that I truly can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me (see Philippians 4:13 and Alma 26:12). I'm excited to stand as a witness of God at all times, even and especially when it's hard. I'm excited for this life on earth and for all the opportunities that are provided me by a loving Father in Heaven. I love Him. I serve Him. And I invite each of you to ponder how you can better serve Him, and then do it.

Con Todo Mi Amor,
Tu Hija, Hermana y Amiga,
Hermana DeBuck

Fotos:

We've been trying to catch a family at home that is SUPER busy, but they have three labs that are super friendly, so we took a picture with one. He just wanted to shake my hand. (:

 

Us with our tamales from Jose! Best free food ever.

Two apples, demonstrating the size of my mouth versus the size of Hermana Henricksen's mouth.

 

We were told by our branch president's wife yesterday that McDonald's is now selling breakfast all day. I cannot tell you how much that made my day. Like, for real. I was literally almost crying. No joke. So, here we are, Monday morning, after 10 am, with our breakfast food from McDonald's. Oh what a joyous moment it was.

 So we live right next to some train tracks right? Well, this is what was driving (?) by this morning: John Deere tractors up the wazoo.

Week 56: Elders and Hermanas, When It Comes Time to Choose a Spouse, There May Not Always Be a Right Choice, Just a Choice!

5 Questions:

1) How is the corn doing?  haven't seen a photo in a while.

2) Can you begin to feel the change in seasons yet?  Do you need your winter stuff sent?  Perhaps, if she agrees, I can send it to you while you live near Sister Walters.  ;)

3) do you read the scriptures in Spanish for your study time?  What have you noticed about them that is different than they are in English?  IS there any difference?

4) Did you get your investigator to church to see/hear the Women's Session of conference?  Wasn't it great?!?  I loved Pres Uchtdorf's story about Great Aunt Rose.

5) Do you have transfers coming soon?  Are you worried you'll go?  or worried you'll stay?

1. It's doing well. Getting pretty gold looking. At least the ones that haven't been harvested. We keep watching for someone to be harvesting while we're driving around so we can take a picture with the harvest, but no luck yet.
2. Just a little bit. I don't need winter stuff yet though. I've got some cardigans I can layer with, plus some scarves. So I'll be fine for this month or so I think. If not, I'll let you know. I would imagine you can probably just mail it near the end of October, when transfers are, and just mail it to the office. Then I'll for sure get it and I don't think it'll be too cold before then. I'll let you know if I change my mind though.
3. Well, during our hour of personal  study, I study in English usually. Sometimes I'll study Preach My Gospel in Spanish to make sure I've got all the words I'll need in my head, but I've pretty much mastered the Gospel words I would say. But then during our hour of language study, for 20 minutes we read the Book of Mormon out loud together in Spanish, to practice reading Spanish, hearing and understanding Spanish, and saying the slightly weird scripture language in Spanish. During the 20 minutes that my companion studies grammar, sometimes I read out of the seminary and institute manuals in Spanish and find quotes to write and put in my scriptures. Sometimes I read from the dictionary and find words that are more common in Mexico or in Latin America, or sometimes I study grammar that I haven't studied for a while and want to brush up on.
4. Unfortunately, we didn't get any investigators to women's conference. We almost did, but things came up. However, yes it was amazing! haha it was kind of funny though. So we got there a bit late because one of the sisters we carpooled with was running a bit late. And then during the second speaker, a lady from the stake Relief Society presidency came up to us and was like "Are you Spanish sisters?" When we nodded yes, she said "Why aren't you watching this with the Spanish speakers? There are three sisters back there and I don't know who they are--if they're members or investigators. You need to go be with them." So, we did. Luckily, I've watched some conference things in Spanish before and I am pretty good at understanding anything relating to the Gospel. But my poor companion. She said she understood some but not enough to get much out of it. So we'll be watching it again as soon as we can, but this time in English. My favorite talk was Sister McConkie's. Oh my goodness. You could just hear the passion in her voice! We are all involved in the cause of Christ, as baptized members of His Church. But it's still up to us if we are going to fulfill our duties or not--and receive the promised blessings or not.
5. Transfers are the end of October. I believe the 27th. And I'm not worried about staying or leaving because I don't think about it until the Saturday before transfers when I have no choice but to think about it. I don't like contemplating what might or might not happen because I'm here until I'm here, and I'm here to work. So that's what I do.

Well. Where do I begin...

So first off, Mother, please do not be alarmed. Everything is fine now. Okay? Keep that in mind..

So on Monday we went to help a recent convert and her family out because they're remodeling their house. All we did was move pieces of wood from one side of the yard to the backyard so they could be picked up and thrown away. But the problem was they had nails all over in them, so we had to be careful. And for one brief moment, I wasn't careful enough. I stepped on a nail. Now, I haven't done a whole lot of painful things in my life so I think my pain tolerance must be pretty low. And oh my goodness did that hurt! Almost immediately my foot was gushing blood. I was just gonna push through the pain and keep going but that was not going to happen. I felt like I'd walked through a swamp my sock was so soggy. Luckily we'd basically finished everything so we told our convert that we had to leave and got out of their. We called Sister Griffin and she instructed us what to do so we did what she said. We had a random reusable plastic bag in our car so I put my foot in that and applied pressure after taking my shoe off. We get home and I sat on the counter with my foot soaking in the sink. And I honestly felt like Moses for a few minutes--I turned the water to blood. But anyway, long story short, I'm basically 100% now and I hardly even limp anymore. haha so that's good. The moral of my grandpa's life is now becoming mine: "God protects the stupid".

On Tuesday we taught a new couple and the hermano was seriously super into it. It was awesome! It was also one of the best restoration lessons I've ever taught. Hermana Henricksen and I, it took us a long time, but we finally are teaching with a lot of unity and the Spirit is always super awesome when we do. It was one of the most powerfully spiritual lessons of my mission I'd say. It was awesome.

Wednesday, we were somewhat rebuked in district meeting (all the district, not just us) because we haven't been doing very good talking to everyone. So we decided again that we were going to do it. And we did! And literally only one person even accepted a card! But hey, we knew we were doing what we needed to be doing. And I believe, because of that, we were led to a couple that had previously been taught and we literally taught at least one principle from each of the five lessons. It was crazy and super awesome! Oh man. Loved it. I'm excited to keep teaching them. 

Thursday was crazy, as always. But we finally got all thirteen steps of weekly planning done in 3 hours! The struggle has been so real because we haven't been able to finish the last step (companionship inventory) in the three hours so we always ended up doing it during dinner or after nightly planning in the evening. But we finally did it! Also, I realized I've learned a lot throughout this past year about controlling my emotions. It only took me twenty years but I think I'm finally beginning to get the hang of it! You'd be so proud, Mom.

Friday we talked to three men in about the space of an hour and taught each of them different things. The first looked nothing like the kind of person who would accept a card with a picture of Jesus but in the end he ended up accepting a copy of the Book of Mormon! He was awesome, and kind of reminded me of Grandpa Dale a bit. haha he was fun to talk to. The next man was walking a dog (his name was Patches) and he is absolutely convinced that the Bible teaches that once we die our body will rot and return to the earth, never to be taken up again. We taught and testified of the Atonement and the Resurrection, but he wasn't having any of it. He kept talking about all these things from the Book of Revelation and I'm pretty sure he was just confusing himself. I am so so so grateful for continuing revelation and for a prophet of God on the earth today. Of course it's important to know the scriptures, but it's also important to listen to the prophet who receives revelation for the welfare of God's children in our days. And finally the next man was basically just Bible bashing the whole time. We testified and testified and testified until we were blue in the face (practically) of the prophet Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon. But, because he'd studied about "Mormon" doctrine (honestly, it's not Mormon doctrine, it's God's doctrine, but that's besides the point) he was convinced that he could befuddle us. He even accused of of being "deceived by false teachers", of which it warns in the Bible. Well I'm here to tell him and all of you reading this that I, Hermana DeBuck, have not been deceived by false teachers. I know by the very power of God that Joseph Smith is a prophet of God and that the Book of Mormon is the word of God. I also know that there is literally no other way to receive eternal life without the priesthood, which was restored to the earth by God through Joseph Smith so that each and every one of God's children could receive all the ordinances of salvation--not just baptism. I know it, and I know that God knows it, and I cannot deny it.

Saturday we were in an area and had literally no idea what to do. So after we prayed, the thought came to mind that we should try some former investigators. So we looked at the list of people in that town and picked one, named Ida. We went and realized we'd met her husband, Jose, a week or two ago. When he answered the door, right away he told us "Oh good! My wife wants to talk with you!" Family and friends, that was one of the best moments of my mission. We were able to have a lesson about the power of the Atonement, covering topics ranging from breaking the habit of swearing to the martyrdom of the Prophet Joseph Smith. It was truly amazing. I am so excited for this couple. I know that now they're ready to progress more than they have before.

Saturday was also the women's conference, but I believe I already wrote about that. Suffice it to say here that the conference was amazing.

Sunday we knocked the house of a potential neither of us had ever met and were greeted by a high school-aged young woman who actually does believe that it would be beneficial to have more of God's word. Well of course! She seems really open and she told us she wasn't sure but thought her family would be open as well. We're planning on teaching them this evening and I am really excited.

As far as my own personal progress goes, yesterday morning during my personal study, I was feeling a bit down. Have been for the past little bit. But then I read Helaman 10:4. And I felt like Heavenly Father was talking directly to me. Because I wonder a lot if He is actually pleased with what I do as a missionary. And this morning, the resounding answer was YES! The second half of that message from the verse was that I need to "fear not" the people. I just need to open my mouth and let it be filled! And it's rather appropriate that yesterday was the first day of the week and of this reporting period--I couldn't ask for a better day to recommit myself to be exactly obedient and just talk to everyone. And so, although the work has continued not exactly as we would have liked the whole time I've been here, I know I'm learning from my mistakes and striving to be better. And that's really the only thing that matters.

The Gospel is true. The priesthood is restored. The Book of Mormon is evidence that God loves all His children. Joseph Smith was the prophet called from the beginning of time to restore the truth to the earth in this last dispensation. Thomas S. Monson is God's chosen prophet on the earth today. We are so blessed to hear him and all the chosen vessels of the Lord speak every six months. This weekend, I invite you all to write down a question that you would like God Himself to answer, and then as you listen to the speakers, pay close attention to what the Spirit tells you. I promise you that you will receive an answer to your question, no matter what the question may be. If you will listen to the Spirit, He will tell you what you need and want to know.

Love, 

Tu Hija y Amiga,

Hermana DeBuck

Fotos:

1) A picture of my foot, after we'd washed off all the blood and whatnot. It looks like I just scraped myself or something....I promise it was a lot cooler looking before we washed it. But I wasn't really thinking about taking pictures:

 

2)  We found this tiny saw with a face on it and it was just too adorable not to take a picture of. (Don't mind the crazy eyes...)

                                             



3)  I've decided that one goal of my mission is to find a ginkgo tree in each area. Finally found one in Rochelle--and it was huge!
                                           

4) Also, you'll be happy to know that I actually learned something all those years at Girls Camp: found some Lamb's Ear growing out of the sidewalk of a member's home! How cool! Now if only I could remember what poison ivy looked like... 

 5) Here's the corn picture, as requested:

 

Week 56: Part 1

Just wanted to let you know that I'm not dead or anything. We had to do some missionary things today that took up about three hours of our P-day so we got permission to make up an hour or so tomorrow morning. I'll write more then hopefully. Love you lots!

Week 55: "Officer: 'Is Everything OK?' Me: (in a slightly high-pitched voice) ...'Yes!'"

5 Questions:
1) What is the best part of being a missionary for you?
2) Are you able to share your testimony with someone (or more than one person) every day?
3) What have you learned about the atonement that you didn't know or understand before the mission?
4) Have you heard from any HS friends who have already returned home? Meaning Wyatt/Kevin/Spencer, etc?
5) Is there any message you might have for me to give Christine?  She gets home on Wednesday.

1. Well. How do you expect me to answer that? The best part of being a missionary, for me, is knowing there is nothing better I could be doing. Because in all honesty, I don't love everything about being a missionary. It's not easy for me to be with one person 24/7. It's not easy for me to work out for 30 minutes on land every morning. It's not easy for me to talk to strangers. It's not easy for me to teach people about the Gospel. It's not easy for me to love everyone I meet in an instant.

But what is easy for me is to know that I am "about my Father's business". I know that He is pleased with what I do when I follow the Spirit. I can know He's pleased when I can feel the Spirit, because the Spirit "doth not dwell in unholy temples" (Helaman 4:24). I know that I am on God's team and that with  God, I truly can do all things (Alma 26:12). I know that this Gospel is true, and that is one of the greatest gifts my Father has given me through this mission. My conversion to my Savior and to His  Gospel has grown an hundredfold. I've seen what life is like for those who do not have the Gospel, and for those who have it yet do not follow it. And I know firsthand what life is like when we have the Gospel and follow it to the best of our ability. God wants to bless us, and He will--if we will just keep His commandments. All blessings come according to the heed we pay to the commandments of God (D&C 130:20-21). If we will but keep the commandments, we will prosper in the land (1 Nephi 2:20).

2. Yes! Even if that person is only my companion or another missionary (there aren't many days like that), we always always always share our testimony, even just our feelings about the Savior and His Gospel. A testimony doesn't have to be shared over the pulpit on fast Sunday. We can share our testimonies with everyone around us by simply living what we believe and being willing to defend those beliefs verbally and kindly, just as the Savior would.

3. First off, I've learned that the Atonement of Jesus Christ can help me do things that are hard, such as exercising. That is honest truth I have learned as a missionary. But I've also learned that it's more than that. Through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, we can literally give away all our pain and  anguish. In the moments when I have absolutely no desire to work in unity with my companion, He can give me His love and we can keep going, working together. In the moments when I have no   desire to talk to that person across the street, He can remind me of my own blessings and help me want those same blessings for that random stranger. In any moment where I do not reach my full potential or when something is lacking, He can supply what is necessary. Of course it does require work. A person can't just up and decide in a moment that Christ's grace is sufficient for them to gain eternal life. We are still required to prepare ourselves for eternal life. He made it possible for us to inherit that gift, but if we are to be ready to receive it, we must be prepared. And because of Christ's Atonement, we can become prepared to be in the presence of God--and feel comfortable there. I  know that I want that reunion to be joyous, so I will do everything I can to be worthy of all the Father hath.

4. Not particularly. I think just one actually, Kent. No one else though.

5. ...nothing comes to mind, other than tell her I love her.

Well, I don't have a whole ton of time and I don't know what to say about this week. Literally everything that could possibly happen has happened, I feel like. This week has felt like an eternity, but we keep moving forward.

We're helping one of our investigators prepare for baptism in October, but she just needs to come to church. We're hoping to get her to women's conference this week because we feel that will be a really important experience for her to have.

We also finally got in contact with our investigator who went to his country for a week. He told us he was coming to church the next day but then didn't come. So it's a little frustrating sometimes, but we'll figure it out. He'll realize this is salvation on the line some day and then he'll want to keep all his commitments.

One thing I have learned this week is that I am SO grateful for my parents and my childhood. Of course we had our struggles, our ups and downs, but I truly am so blessed. Shout out to my parents who, despite their imperfections, were able (and still are able) to work together for a common goal: an eternal family. I am so blessed to have loving, faithful parents who have lived the standards of God to the best of their abilities. And I know I'll do everything I can to be like them in that regard.

The Gospel is true. It's the only way for us to be with our families forever, but it's available for every single child of God. The Book of Mormon is the word of God, and only through daily study of that  book, combined with daily prayer, will we be able to withstand the temptations and afflictions of this world. If you are not currently studying it every day, I challenge you to do so. Even for one week. Put God to the test, and see if He will not bless you more than you think possible.

Con Todo Mi Amor,
Hermana DeBuck

Fotos:
1. Found this coat in a hidden closet in our house. I felt like I was ready to serve in Russia!

2. Our branch president's wife recently got a Camaro. What a smooth ride....(minus the multiple chins) 

3. We took our recent converts to a lesson and it went totally not as planned, so we were trying to keep the nine year old entertained. Since the camera is about the only entertainment on a Church-issued iPad, this is what happened.

Week 54: It's Rosh Hashanah!

5 Questions:
1)    Dad forwarded me the mission newsletter.  What do you think of the "Fit for the Kingdom" challenge?  Are the new Mission President and wife big time health food/exercise fans?
2)    Are you going to do the challenge?
3)    Do you have much interaction with Sister Griffin?
4)    Did you get your flu shot yet?
5)    Do you need me to put money in your account?

1. Well, I honestly haven't read it yet so I'm not sure about the newsletter.... And I don't know if our mission president and Sister Griffin are health/exercise fans.... I think they may just be concerned that we haven't been paying enough attention to our health and so we suffer a bit. I don't know though.  This is just me pulling something out of the air for an answer...haha

2. Maybe... I won't commit to anything just now, but I would think yes. No promises though.

3. Sort of. She LOVES going out with the missionaries, but it's a bit harder because we're farther away from her. When we have zone meetings/conferences, she'll usually go out with a set of sisters while President does his president stuff. She was going to go out with us last time, but it just didn't work out because of timing and whatnot. So I think the next zone meeting we have, she'll probably go out with us. But we'll see. She's super cute and awesome. Plus, she speaks Spanish. What more could  we want?

4. No.....(do I have to?)

5. No I'm okay. I'm trying to not spend money. I got some cash from Grandma for my birthday so I'll use that if I need to. But I don't think I'll need to spend any money. I'm trying to avoid acquiring more STUFF. Because I just don't need more stuff... But thanks for the offer.

Well, this week was another week of work. I honestly can't remember anything that happened.... but it was good. It is transfer week and somehow all four of the missionaries in our branch are staying. So that's cool.

Our recent convert told us her sister and dad are going to be moving to Rochelle--and her son, who just turned eight, wants to be baptized! So that's gonna be awesome. We'll also be working with her sister because she sounds like she may be interested as well. Her dad is also interested but apparently the only person that he wants to talk to is Brother Sampson, one of the members here. So, the Elders and Brother Sampson will be working with him. But, that'll be awesome. We're thinking we may be able to have a big family baptism! Which would be the coolest thing ever. (:

We're still working, slowly but surely, with our investigators. One hermana almost accepted a  baptismal date last week. She's so close.   She just needs to come to church to feel the Spirit here. Our other investigator who is really close spent the last week in El Salvador so hopefully we'll be meeting with him soon, and get him progressing toward the celestial kingdom and eternal life as well.

The highlight of this week was a short moment, and it was spent on the door of a woman who doesn't believe she has need for another book of scripture. I had the opportunity to testify of the Book of   Mormon and the love of our Heavenly Father in giving it to us, and in speaking to the people who wrote that inspired book. I looked her in the eyes and as prompted by the Spirit, I told her that one day she will have need for more, and she will remember our words. I know that I spoke truth because I felt the Holy Ghost testify to me, powerfully, that what I said was true. And I know she felt it, even if she denied any such feeling. I walked away from that door knowing that I had done by part and Heavenly Father was pleased with our work.

Sorry this week is short, but we have to end our P-day a bit early because we have a dinner appt at 5 in another town.

But know this: I know that this is the true Church of Jesus Christ. After His death and resurrection, His apostles continued the work that He'd left them to do, but even they were eventually rejected and killed. The priesthood authority that Christ had given to them was lost from the earth because no one  possessed it. Until a young man named Joseph Smith was called as a prophet, just as Enoch, Noah, Moses and Abraham before, to restore the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ to the earth. The priesthood authority was given to man once again, in order to perform the ordinances of salvation for the children of men. I know that Joseph Smith is a prophet and I know that the Book of Mormon is true. I also know that everyone we talk with about the Prophet and the Book of Mormon will feel the Holy Spirit of God, because He testifies of truth. And then it's up to them if they will accept or reject the truth. If they choose to reject it in that moment, I know, without a shadow of a doubt, that one day they will remember our words and they will remember how they felt, and they will know that we spoke truth, in it's most pure and untarnished form. And then they too will know that Joseph Smith is a prophet of God, and that the Book of Mormon is God's tool in these latter days to gather scattered Israel.

What a glorious work we are involved in. I feel privileged to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ. I have made promises with God Himself that I will carry the Gospel to the world. And I have every intention of fulfilling those promises for the rest of my life. Do you?

Love, Hermana DeBuck

Fotos:
1. The ladies at the museum. It's always such a blast talking with them and listening to their conversation while we alphabetize obituaries. (: (from left to right: Mary, Judy, Hna Henricksen, Kathy, me)

2. Us and Darla again. I actually do not have an arm growing out of my head, and no, that is not a comfortable position. But she pulled my head down and my arm got stuck and this is how it turned out...but hey. She's awesome.
 

PS--I forgot to tell you and maybe you already know, but Elder Golling (mom note: this a young man that used to live on our stake) is serving in one of my first wards down in Peoria! So that's pretty cool. He's actually in the ward that my converts are in...so yeah. Just thought I'd tell you that. I didn't know if you knew or not. Love you!

Week 53: "After Their Missions, our Elders and Our Hermanas Will Get Married and Make Mormon Babies," Said a Recent Convert

5 Questions:
1) So, did you finally get the little bubble envelope gifts?
2)  Did the package of new garments get to you yet from the Distribution center?
3)  Any new investigators?
4) Did this past week go better for you than the week before?  You sounded a little down, but were plowing through anyway.
5) What did you do for Labor Day?  Was it a regular day, just switched for P Day?

1. Yes, thank you! I loved them.

2. Yes, got them a week or two ago. The bottoms are still a bit tight but they're good. The tops on the other hand feel a bit too big, but they're okay too. haha we just can't win

3.  Yes! I'll tell you about them in a moment...

4. Yes, this week was a lot better. I think I'd just kind of psyched myself into a weird emotional state, but now I'm okay.

5. Yes, yesterday was just a regular proselyting day for us. The idea is that because it's a holiday more people will be at home. So all (?) Monday holidays get switched with Tuesday for P-day, at least in our mission. Sounds like it's not a States mission thing, like I thought. But hey, that's the revelation our president has received so that's what we do.

Yesterday was a bit rough because we basically were in the sun ALL day, and boy was it hot. But at 6:30 we had an appt with a couple--we'd made the appt last week, so in all honesty I was a bit skeptical of them actually being there--but they were waiting for us on the dot! They told us they'd turned down other things to do because they knew they'd made the appt with us. Oh man. And they are amazing! Their names are Dolores and Porfilio Aregueta. They had a ton of questions. But, thanks to what we've learned from past companions, we were able to take control of the conversation and  actually teach them! And even though they still have questions, they committed to read and ask God if it's true. They also basically told us that we were telling them that their church actually is NOT the church Christ left behind. But because the Spirit was there, and we just told them to ask God if what we say is true, we left on a good note and I don't think anyone's feelings were hurt. It was an awesome experience. I love them so much.  Plus, they were hysterical! And, Dolores told us that next week when we come, she's going to feed us too. I love Latinos...so much. They are amazing people.

Well, we had a zone activity today so I didn't have a lot of time to write. But know that I am well and I love being here in Rochelle. We are working with some truly amazing people and I know that we will see miracles. I know that Jesus Christ in all reality did heal the blind and the lame; He raised the dead and forgave sins. Why not in our days? God is the same yesterday today and forever, and I know that the heavens are not sealed and miracles have not ceased. I love the gospel. I know it's true. And the Book of Mormon is evidence that God loves all his children--no matter where, no matter when.

Con Todo Mi Amor,
Hermana DeBuck