I'm sorry, in advance, for my email this week. I'm kind of in a giant, mumble jumble of emotions. So, I'll just explain how the week went.
President, at the new missionary training, gave all of the new missionaries and their trainers the challenge to teach 21 lessons in their first full week -- this last week. We accepted the challenge and got to work. It was a week of complete finding. Really tiring, but really great, too.
We got to Saturday and we had only 13 lessons, 8 lessons left in one day seemed pretty impossible.
In church on Sunday, we taught Gospel Principles. At church, we had about 5 lessons. On the way home for lunch, 1 more lesson. Just 2 more.
We went home and had lunch. I was having trouble feeling the Spirit or feeling comfortable in the house, so we tidied up a bit and everything felt much more peaceful. We went back out, 2 lessons to go. Easy right? Yeah, no.
A lesson consists of teaching a principle like the Restoration and saying 2 prayers. NO ONE WOULD PRAY WITH US! They'd talk to us and listen, but no one would pray. It was about 8:30pm and we had 1 more lesson to give. 1 down with about 30 min - 1 hr to go. 9:15 came around on Sunday night, and we had our last lesson. 21 lessons. Real finding, guided by the Spirit. Diligence, pushing ourselves, and real progress. Our week was pretty great if you ask me.
We did it. We did what was asked of us and we now have a more solid testimony of the power of prayer and the power of our faith.
---
It is so great to hear about all of the thing you have been doing. You are all doing so much and things have changed. Very cool! And you applied for that job right in time! How cool is that? With the buildings close together, It would be perfect! I hope you get it! Mom, I am excited about this new job possibility. I think it'll be great. I'll pray! Let me know how it goes. I guess you're both getting all ready for school and everything. How weird! But, I'm sure it's nice to have something to do.
I'm kind of in a really weird spot. So close and really far. I'm supposed to be focused, but everyone keeps talking about me coming home and I need to think about it enough to mentally prepare, but I'm trying not to get distracted.
Other than that, I'm well. I'm exercising every day and we're trying to be healthy. We are trying to be as diligent as possible, which I'm not really sure what that means and where the line is for how much one can physically do, but I'm trying to push that line. We are pretty much building this area up from nothing, so it's definitely tough work. We're doing OK though.
We still are trying to figure out how to get around this city and how the bus system works. It's a lot more involved than it seems.
I'm really trying to be a good trainer. I dont know how well I'm doing and I don't know if I'm who I need to be for Sorella Stott, but I'm trying. I want to give her a good basis for the mission and to help her rely on this time to know what to do when things get hard. I want her to be able to depend on me, as a companion and as a friend.
Mission life is hard sometimes; in fact, I didn't really understand how hard it would be. I don't think anyone does though, but I'm doing ok for now. Right now, I'd say I'm sitting pretty. Especially compared to what it's been like in the past. I wouldn't trade this precious and sacred year and a half for anything. This is so much more than I would have ever been able to imagine. Heavenly Father has fulfilled all of my hopes for myself and continues to fulfill my dreams and hopes for you all and for our family.
I pray every night that you will be blessed because of the things I am doing here, and I hope you are being blessed.
Please know that I love you. In large part, I am doing this for you all so that I might be more of a help in our family, more of a builder of faith than a prodigal son. Thank you for your love and your patience. This week, I have a full, grateful heart. Words don't express. Thank you. I love you with everything that I am. As we say in Italian, non vedo l'ora di vedervi di nuovo. I don't see the hour to see you again. (it's like saying I cant wait, but that's not right because I can, I just don't see the hour, but it'll be great when it happens.)
I'm finishing strong. I can feel it. And it feels great. Hard, but great.
I love you all ;)
Sorella Carlock
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Sixty-eight: August 20, 2014 Bologna
Come butta??
That is slang for ''whats up''
Good stuff is happening!! Good stuff.
It hit me the other day that I have only 11 weeks left...aka 2 1/2 months. It only hit me because another sorella in my group said something, I'm not really thinking about it at all. I think about my future....like at minimum a year from now, but I don't think about going home. I do think about hugging you all...that's about it. Well anyway, it was a weird thought because it hurt so much. The idea of not doing this for the rest of my life, full-time, kinda stinks! This is the life, real life, how we should all be living...out of the world, sacrificing time and effort to spread the word of God...although I could do with a nap sometimes and maybe wearing pants...yeah or not...skirts are fine.
But anyway, I say that because the thought was so foreign and it like didn't make sense to think about going home...especially in a positive way. I like what I'm doing here.
Sorella Stott and I have found 3 new investigators in our time together and that's including the week in August where EVERYONE GOES SOUTH...why? Migration, I don't know. But August makes North Italy a ghost town and we still found people with honest hearts. In fact, we set a baptismal date with a filipina today! October 11th, dad's birthday! She's going to make it. She is so ready and we felt the Spirit strongly in that lesson. I believe she can do it! We all do.
Speaking of baptisms, Virginia was baptized yesterday!!!! She is our investigator from Vicenza, mamma mia. She is so brava. She solidified my testimony that people can change! She completely!!!!! completely changed her life. I got to call her and wish her a happy day and it was nice. She thanked me...but I don't get why, I really don't. She did it all.
Basically, we are doing a lot of finding work....all day, every day...and its hard but we are enjoying it. We're finding the people that are ready and that's a lot better than having people that don't want to change. We're seeing the Lord's hand in our lives. So great.
Sorella Stott and I are doing well together I think. She's funny. I think sometimes she gets frustrated and I hope I'm not doing anything to make her feel bad. I know I was always frustrated at the beginning so she seems to be handling everything a lot better than I did. But I think she's doing so well. She is a hard worker, and she learns very quickly. I'm really glad she is my companion. She's very obedient too and she loves finding which makes me love it more...oh hey, I love finding now! I'M A FINDING MISSIONARY...what a miracle that is.
See? I just needed trials to be prepared for the blessing.
Mom I am so glad saying that helped you. Its really true. Ive seen that so much here. I don't get the blessing until I am humble and patient...its not when I say ''whatever, I don't care anymore'', it comes when I say ''Ok, patience, I can wait. His time'' Then it comes and it is great!
Thank you for your love and your prayers. I feel them. I hope you feel mine. I'm working hard here in hope that Heavenly Father has mercy on you all and gives you the things that you ask Him for. Please know that I love you and am so proud of all you are doing. You are amazing examples to me and I love you with my whole heart.
I know God lives and He loves us, more than we can imagine or take in. He is there. He is our Father! He wants to hear from you.
I love you. Be good.
Sorella Carlock
That is slang for ''whats up''
Good stuff is happening!! Good stuff.
It hit me the other day that I have only 11 weeks left...aka 2 1/2 months. It only hit me because another sorella in my group said something, I'm not really thinking about it at all. I think about my future....like at minimum a year from now, but I don't think about going home. I do think about hugging you all...that's about it. Well anyway, it was a weird thought because it hurt so much. The idea of not doing this for the rest of my life, full-time, kinda stinks! This is the life, real life, how we should all be living...out of the world, sacrificing time and effort to spread the word of God...although I could do with a nap sometimes and maybe wearing pants...yeah or not...skirts are fine.
But anyway, I say that because the thought was so foreign and it like didn't make sense to think about going home...especially in a positive way. I like what I'm doing here.
Sorella Stott and I have found 3 new investigators in our time together and that's including the week in August where EVERYONE GOES SOUTH...why? Migration, I don't know. But August makes North Italy a ghost town and we still found people with honest hearts. In fact, we set a baptismal date with a filipina today! October 11th, dad's birthday! She's going to make it. She is so ready and we felt the Spirit strongly in that lesson. I believe she can do it! We all do.
Speaking of baptisms, Virginia was baptized yesterday!!!! She is our investigator from Vicenza, mamma mia. She is so brava. She solidified my testimony that people can change! She completely!!!!! completely changed her life. I got to call her and wish her a happy day and it was nice. She thanked me...but I don't get why, I really don't. She did it all.
Basically, we are doing a lot of finding work....all day, every day...and its hard but we are enjoying it. We're finding the people that are ready and that's a lot better than having people that don't want to change. We're seeing the Lord's hand in our lives. So great.
Sorella Stott and I are doing well together I think. She's funny. I think sometimes she gets frustrated and I hope I'm not doing anything to make her feel bad. I know I was always frustrated at the beginning so she seems to be handling everything a lot better than I did. But I think she's doing so well. She is a hard worker, and she learns very quickly. I'm really glad she is my companion. She's very obedient too and she loves finding which makes me love it more...oh hey, I love finding now! I'M A FINDING MISSIONARY...what a miracle that is.
See? I just needed trials to be prepared for the blessing.
Mom I am so glad saying that helped you. Its really true. Ive seen that so much here. I don't get the blessing until I am humble and patient...its not when I say ''whatever, I don't care anymore'', it comes when I say ''Ok, patience, I can wait. His time'' Then it comes and it is great!
Thank you for your love and your prayers. I feel them. I hope you feel mine. I'm working hard here in hope that Heavenly Father has mercy on you all and gives you the things that you ask Him for. Please know that I love you and am so proud of all you are doing. You are amazing examples to me and I love you with my whole heart.
I know God lives and He loves us, more than we can imagine or take in. He is there. He is our Father! He wants to hear from you.
I love you. Be good.
Sorella Carlock
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
Sixty-seven: August 13, 2014 Bologna
This has been a pretty awesome week! Just saying!
It started out with a lot of nerves. From Saturday to Thursday, after I met my new companion, I was all butterflies and stomach churns. I didn't sleep. No joke. I kept waking up and tossing. I was sooo nervous.
Thursday morning we woke up at 4:45 to get to the train station for a 6:25 train. We got to Milano, and another sorella and I went to the church to meet with President before we met the new missionaries. He said some amazing things. He said that the missionaries were already praying for us and that they have such a strong spirit. It is so true.
After a while, they all walked into the room. We "old timers got sooo excited. President had them recite something, and then we trainers got up and recited to them D&C 4. It was such an enriching moment because we were saying, directly to new missionaries, (I can't fully remember it in English) ''Behold a marvelous is about to come forth among the children of men...all ye that desire to serve God are called to the work.'' Just a beautiful moment, and a great reflection for us on our purpose as trainers and how we need to help them.
We all stood up, and the trainers were called up to announce who they would be assigned to as companions. I went 5th out of 12 sisters.
''Hi, I'm Sorella Carlock, and we're going to be serving in Bologna. I've never been there, but I've heard the members are great. Be prepared, because we're going to work hard!''
My companion's name is Sorella Stott. SHE IS AMAZING! She's from Twin Falls, Idaho and she's only 19! I feel really old. She's beautiful, beautiful! And so kind. When I saw here, I was just like ''come here you!'' Ha, ha.
She's also really tall...sooooo yeah ha ha. I'm short, I know.
We started right away by talking to people on the way home and by testifying. She did so great. We talked to 2 women on the train, and then we split and we each talked to one. She explained the Book of Mormon perfectly. I was impressed.
We're having a good time here in Bologna. I'm still in the same zone as Vicenza, so that's cool, but it's a different region of Italy, so it's a different culture. Its beautiful, and active, and Bolognese sauce comes from here -- ovvio!!! :)
We're doing well. I feel motivated and more committed. I felt committed before, but now I just feel so light and not so heavy. I feel like the Lord will help us do anything.
I love Sorella Stott because she bears POWERFUL testimony, and I am seeing the mission with new eyes. Man, I love this place. I LOVE BEING A MISSIONARY! It's never going to end, right? Ha ha. I wouldn't rather be anywhere else but here with my companion. It just shows you. Heavenly Father really knows...and CARES! Not just as if He knows what we need and witholds it. NO, He WANTS to bless us....BUT we need to be ready first. We need to be prepared for the blessings and sometimes that means some trials and hardships. Clever. Very smart.
We're trying to figure out the city together. It's been ok so far...we've wandered around some and I imagine that could be frustrating, but I haven't heard any complaints...Sorella Stott is all positivity. She's trying to talk to people and we do a lot of Italian ''prep'' for finding.
In the beginning of my mission, I remember not feeling like I could say anything, so I didn't want to try. I don't want that for her. We have been writing out little phrases and questions so that she can open her mouth and invite the Spirit (D&C 100: 5-8). She's such a good sport. Ive also been helping her write out what she wants to say in lessons, because I feel that her being comfortable is more important than having something memorized. She needs to feel at ease and the the Spirit will come. I want her to know that she can do it, so we're trying to prepare more fully for lessons. She does really well with Italian though. She's pretty solid.
Well, I don't have much else to say. I love it here. ALL UP! Except I'm exhausted. Everything else, even that, is wonderful. It's a part of the missionary life. Well...I guess one thing is bad. Our ankles are swelling...like last year, remember? ha ha. Any help??
Also, if you can think of some good, simple exercises that I can do, any help would be appreciated!!
I love you all.
I think moving to the beach would be perfect, Mommy. You go for it, girl!!! You do what you want! I love you. Thank you for always thinking of me and wanting me around even if I can't be. Thank you for loving me.
Eva, you're so dang cute!! SOOOOOO CUTE! Thank you for your testimony story.
Tanner, I love you and am so proud of you. I think of your example always and try to follow your footsteps. You make it all seem possible. Thank you!
Favor for the week (because there always seems to be something I ask of you): Can you apply for classes for me?? The due date is the 24th of August and I really want to get that done. Please sign me up....I trust your judgment. I gave some suggestions. Just go for it :)
I love you all. I pray for you. I miss you just enough to want to stay here and send some blessings your way. I'll have some gelato in your honor :)
LOVE YOU FOREVER :)
Sorella Lo Carlock
It started out with a lot of nerves. From Saturday to Thursday, after I met my new companion, I was all butterflies and stomach churns. I didn't sleep. No joke. I kept waking up and tossing. I was sooo nervous.
Thursday morning we woke up at 4:45 to get to the train station for a 6:25 train. We got to Milano, and another sorella and I went to the church to meet with President before we met the new missionaries. He said some amazing things. He said that the missionaries were already praying for us and that they have such a strong spirit. It is so true.
After a while, they all walked into the room. We "old timers got sooo excited. President had them recite something, and then we trainers got up and recited to them D&C 4. It was such an enriching moment because we were saying, directly to new missionaries, (I can't fully remember it in English) ''Behold a marvelous is about to come forth among the children of men...all ye that desire to serve God are called to the work.'' Just a beautiful moment, and a great reflection for us on our purpose as trainers and how we need to help them.
We all stood up, and the trainers were called up to announce who they would be assigned to as companions. I went 5th out of 12 sisters.
''Hi, I'm Sorella Carlock, and we're going to be serving in Bologna. I've never been there, but I've heard the members are great. Be prepared, because we're going to work hard!''
My companion's name is Sorella Stott. SHE IS AMAZING! She's from Twin Falls, Idaho and she's only 19! I feel really old. She's beautiful, beautiful! And so kind. When I saw here, I was just like ''come here you!'' Ha, ha.
She's also really tall...sooooo yeah ha ha. I'm short, I know.
We started right away by talking to people on the way home and by testifying. She did so great. We talked to 2 women on the train, and then we split and we each talked to one. She explained the Book of Mormon perfectly. I was impressed.
We're having a good time here in Bologna. I'm still in the same zone as Vicenza, so that's cool, but it's a different region of Italy, so it's a different culture. Its beautiful, and active, and Bolognese sauce comes from here -- ovvio!!! :)
We're doing well. I feel motivated and more committed. I felt committed before, but now I just feel so light and not so heavy. I feel like the Lord will help us do anything.
I love Sorella Stott because she bears POWERFUL testimony, and I am seeing the mission with new eyes. Man, I love this place. I LOVE BEING A MISSIONARY! It's never going to end, right? Ha ha. I wouldn't rather be anywhere else but here with my companion. It just shows you. Heavenly Father really knows...and CARES! Not just as if He knows what we need and witholds it. NO, He WANTS to bless us....BUT we need to be ready first. We need to be prepared for the blessings and sometimes that means some trials and hardships. Clever. Very smart.
We're trying to figure out the city together. It's been ok so far...we've wandered around some and I imagine that could be frustrating, but I haven't heard any complaints...Sorella Stott is all positivity. She's trying to talk to people and we do a lot of Italian ''prep'' for finding.
In the beginning of my mission, I remember not feeling like I could say anything, so I didn't want to try. I don't want that for her. We have been writing out little phrases and questions so that she can open her mouth and invite the Spirit (D&C 100: 5-8). She's such a good sport. Ive also been helping her write out what she wants to say in lessons, because I feel that her being comfortable is more important than having something memorized. She needs to feel at ease and the the Spirit will come. I want her to know that she can do it, so we're trying to prepare more fully for lessons. She does really well with Italian though. She's pretty solid.
Well, I don't have much else to say. I love it here. ALL UP! Except I'm exhausted. Everything else, even that, is wonderful. It's a part of the missionary life. Well...I guess one thing is bad. Our ankles are swelling...like last year, remember? ha ha. Any help??
Also, if you can think of some good, simple exercises that I can do, any help would be appreciated!!
I love you all.
I think moving to the beach would be perfect, Mommy. You go for it, girl!!! You do what you want! I love you. Thank you for always thinking of me and wanting me around even if I can't be. Thank you for loving me.
Eva, you're so dang cute!! SOOOOOO CUTE! Thank you for your testimony story.
Tanner, I love you and am so proud of you. I think of your example always and try to follow your footsteps. You make it all seem possible. Thank you!
Favor for the week (because there always seems to be something I ask of you): Can you apply for classes for me?? The due date is the 24th of August and I really want to get that done. Please sign me up....I trust your judgment. I gave some suggestions. Just go for it :)
I love you all. I pray for you. I miss you just enough to want to stay here and send some blessings your way. I'll have some gelato in your honor :)
LOVE YOU FOREVER :)
Sorella Lo Carlock
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Sixty-six: August 6, 2014 Vicenza
Well, transfers are this week....I'm leaving Vicenza. Im really sad. Sorella Richards and I are splitting up, too. I really love her a lot and I am so glad I had this time with her. I know we're going to be friends after this.
That's not the big news though....President called me on Saturday and told me that I'm going to be training a new missionary. I'M TRAINING! I am so shocked and surprised. I am really nervous and sooo so so excited. I think it'll be such a great opportunity for me. It'll help me stay focused and keep me on my toes. WOOHOO!
Well, that's pretty much all of the news I have for this week really.
Its been the longest 5 days of my life. We said goodbye to everyone we visit and it was just amazing...too many tears though! I guess another thing is that they are taking sisters out of Vicenza...so this will now be the second time I leave a city and they take sisters out and the third time they close my coppia. Not really sure how to think or feel about that, so I'm not thinking or feeling too much...ha ha! Heavenly Father knows what he is doing!!! MENO MALE! I trust Him.
Im really sad that Sorella Richards and I are splitting, but I think we've built a really solid friendship and we'll be friends after the mission, too. Not to worry! :)
---
Thank you so much to everyone for all of the pictures and emails. I had 40 emails when I opened my box today!!! WOW! Ha ha. Mostly pictures...WHICH IS AWESOME. You have no idea how special a picture is here. Thank you! Thank you for updating me on future plans and family events. I really love hearing about all of this stuff.
Tanney, I am so amazed at all of the wonderful things you are planning. It sounds like a lovely day. ;) You are doing amazing things. You set such a wonderful example to me and everyone around you. You are teaching me so much about diligence and hard work.
Eva, you are such a great teacher and leader....you're really growing a lot. I am thoroughly and pleasantly not surprised :) You're just amazing. Recognize your Worth!!! You are going to be a great missionary...WOW!
Mommy, how do you feel now that school is over?? Are you getting enough time to relax? Thank you so much for all of your support. I love PDay because your emails Always uplift me and make me feel so good about who I am and what I'm doing....and how far I've come.
----
Mommy, I think your World Languages idea is awesome. Is there any way we could figure something out to where I could start with online classes that can transfer to SVU?? I want to still follow the law school thing for now, and work towards something like Social Services. But, I want to do languages, too. WHY NOT??? GREAT IDEA. 10 points to MOMMY!
Well I have 3 months left. I hope when I count down you don't think its because I'm jumping out of my skin to come home. To me, its more of a way to track progress....to tell myself I can do this. Ebeneezers, no? 15 months down! WOW! I never would've guessed, EVER, that I could have made it here...Just think...2 years ago, I was going in a completely different direction...sort of. I certainly wasn't preparing properly...now look at me! Can't you see the bags under my eyes, IM OLD! Ha ha, I'm an old missionary, and I couldn't be more proud...except pride is a sin ;) :) Just know that I am doing great! I am happy. I am loving Italy!
I am so happy and so committed to being here. We have already had 7 lessons this week and we'll have 2 more today. Still working hard. And I'm going to be working even harder. This last few months and these transfers with the new sorella are going to be full of miracles and change. Get ready for some great stories!!
I love you all with my whole heart.
I pray for you every night
BE GOOD!!!!
That's not the big news though....President called me on Saturday and told me that I'm going to be training a new missionary. I'M TRAINING! I am so shocked and surprised. I am really nervous and sooo so so excited. I think it'll be such a great opportunity for me. It'll help me stay focused and keep me on my toes. WOOHOO!
Well, that's pretty much all of the news I have for this week really.
Its been the longest 5 days of my life. We said goodbye to everyone we visit and it was just amazing...too many tears though! I guess another thing is that they are taking sisters out of Vicenza...so this will now be the second time I leave a city and they take sisters out and the third time they close my coppia. Not really sure how to think or feel about that, so I'm not thinking or feeling too much...ha ha! Heavenly Father knows what he is doing!!! MENO MALE! I trust Him.
Im really sad that Sorella Richards and I are splitting, but I think we've built a really solid friendship and we'll be friends after the mission, too. Not to worry! :)
---
Thank you so much to everyone for all of the pictures and emails. I had 40 emails when I opened my box today!!! WOW! Ha ha. Mostly pictures...WHICH IS AWESOME. You have no idea how special a picture is here. Thank you! Thank you for updating me on future plans and family events. I really love hearing about all of this stuff.
Tanney, I am so amazed at all of the wonderful things you are planning. It sounds like a lovely day. ;) You are doing amazing things. You set such a wonderful example to me and everyone around you. You are teaching me so much about diligence and hard work.
Eva, you are such a great teacher and leader....you're really growing a lot. I am thoroughly and pleasantly not surprised :) You're just amazing. Recognize your Worth!!! You are going to be a great missionary...WOW!
Mommy, how do you feel now that school is over?? Are you getting enough time to relax? Thank you so much for all of your support. I love PDay because your emails Always uplift me and make me feel so good about who I am and what I'm doing....and how far I've come.
----
Mommy, I think your World Languages idea is awesome. Is there any way we could figure something out to where I could start with online classes that can transfer to SVU?? I want to still follow the law school thing for now, and work towards something like Social Services. But, I want to do languages, too. WHY NOT??? GREAT IDEA. 10 points to MOMMY!
Well I have 3 months left. I hope when I count down you don't think its because I'm jumping out of my skin to come home. To me, its more of a way to track progress....to tell myself I can do this. Ebeneezers, no? 15 months down! WOW! I never would've guessed, EVER, that I could have made it here...Just think...2 years ago, I was going in a completely different direction...sort of. I certainly wasn't preparing properly...now look at me! Can't you see the bags under my eyes, IM OLD! Ha ha, I'm an old missionary, and I couldn't be more proud...except pride is a sin ;) :) Just know that I am doing great! I am happy. I am loving Italy!
I am so happy and so committed to being here. We have already had 7 lessons this week and we'll have 2 more today. Still working hard. And I'm going to be working even harder. This last few months and these transfers with the new sorella are going to be full of miracles and change. Get ready for some great stories!!
I love you all with my whole heart.
I pray for you every night
BE GOOD!!!!
Sixty-five: July 30, 2014 Vicenza
I just love P-Days. Do you know why? Because I get to write to you all!! This has been a great email session. So many wonderful things!!!
Thank you so much, Mommy, for your constant help. You are so diligent in getting things done...you're not one of those persons that say ''yeah yeah, we'll figure it out.'' You know I worry about these things and you take care of me. Thank you soooooooo much. YOU'RE THE BOMB!
I am sooo sorry that you fell. You're in a boot!!!?!?? Ouch. Is it hard getting up and down the stairs and everything? Be careful!
What else have you figured out about our trip to Italy? Any dates? Did you book it already or are you still thinking about it?
I do want to go to Bern for the temple. That has to be a part of it! Honestly, I think we'll end it being in Italy for about 10 days. But please make time for attending the Bern Temple and seeing the Rome temple grounds....we can say we were there! :)
----
I am so happy to hear that wedding plans are moving forward! I think its Amazing!!! Im glad Dad can offer his expertise. I think it'll be nice for everyone to at least say he had a part in it and that his touch made the evening nice. That'll be good.
----
THANK YOU SO MUCH for all of the research you did for online courses. I wish I could express my thanks with a big, fat kiss...but I'll get to do that in time. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!
I understand what you're saying about the BYUI online thing...its just a transition. Ok, fine....but don't try to get me to actually go up there. No way...uh uh! ;)
Once I go back to school in the Fall with Eva, I want to pursue the psychology & sociology & pre law route. But for now, lets prepare for online school. YAY!
---
I'm so glad that you are almost done with school, Mom. It'll be nice to have a break! Eva is a YCL??? Dang she is so old. She's probably 6ft by now!
YANKEES! Yay. I bet you all had a great time- did you take pictures???
----------
Now here for the Lopo update.
Everything is going great here. We are trying to work hard- we have a bunch of referrals we need to contact and we have a lot to do! Its so nice. We are doing good things and we are seeing the blessings!
Sorella Richards and I have decided to speak practically only in Italian. I want to speak only in Italian for the next 2 transfers and so we're starting now so we can be ready.
President switched up how he does transfer calls...we get the call Saturday now, so by next PDay we'll have already heard about transfers. I really hope I stay with Sorella Richards for my last 2. We are doing GREAT THINGS and we fit together so well. We are a good team and I love her so much.
You won't believe this...but since she got here (5 wks ago), I have lost 10 lbs!!! From working out and being healthy. IT WORKS! ha ha. One of the elders here had an extra jump rope and he gave it to me....man, jumping rope is Amazing! I love it! I also have this elastic band from the MTC and these two things are incredibly useful. Im doing it! Im changing my life. all thanks to Sorella Richards and her motivation, example, and diligence.
We are doing really well here. Our investigator Virginia, who has a baptismal date, reminds me of the Brother of Jared when the Lord says, ''there has never been such great faith among all the children of men...and for these he could not be kept from seeing Beyond the veil''...summarization....but yeah! SHE'S SOOOOOOO GREAT. She has such faith.
We had to see her at 8am the other day and after our lesson with her, she stayed with us and we all did companion study together! Amazing. and soooo spiritual. I want to be like this with all of investigators!
Well I think that's it. I love your updates and hearing about what you all are doing. It makes me feel more motivated. We're doing great here, so it looks like we're all doing well except Mom's foot. Sorry Mommy!
Keep doing good things...and like I used to say, NEVER GIVE UP! This has been the hardest and most rewarding time of my life. I'm going to make it through, and its going to be amazing! :)
I know our Heavenly Father loves us. He is more than just a God, but our Father who wants us to make Him a part of our lives. I am reminded every day of the scripture ''consider the lillies''. He has control and for that, we dont need to fear. I know that He is taking care of us and that brings me peace-
Behold, I am a disciple of Jesus Christ, the Son of God....Eccomi qua in missione! Who would have thought that I, Me Zoe Jade Carlock, could get here? Well, Heavenly Father did, and I thank Him every day for His merciful plan for me.
Thank you for all of your love and support. I am sooo grateful that I get to be with you 3 forever. Thats something special. I cant wait to hug you again....well I can wait....but its going to be great!
Until next week,
Sorella Carlock
Thank you so much, Mommy, for your constant help. You are so diligent in getting things done...you're not one of those persons that say ''yeah yeah, we'll figure it out.'' You know I worry about these things and you take care of me. Thank you soooooooo much. YOU'RE THE BOMB!
I am sooo sorry that you fell. You're in a boot!!!?!?? Ouch. Is it hard getting up and down the stairs and everything? Be careful!
What else have you figured out about our trip to Italy? Any dates? Did you book it already or are you still thinking about it?
I do want to go to Bern for the temple. That has to be a part of it! Honestly, I think we'll end it being in Italy for about 10 days. But please make time for attending the Bern Temple and seeing the Rome temple grounds....we can say we were there! :)
----
I am so happy to hear that wedding plans are moving forward! I think its Amazing!!! Im glad Dad can offer his expertise. I think it'll be nice for everyone to at least say he had a part in it and that his touch made the evening nice. That'll be good.
----
THANK YOU SO MUCH for all of the research you did for online courses. I wish I could express my thanks with a big, fat kiss...but I'll get to do that in time. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!
I understand what you're saying about the BYUI online thing...its just a transition. Ok, fine....but don't try to get me to actually go up there. No way...uh uh! ;)
Once I go back to school in the Fall with Eva, I want to pursue the psychology & sociology & pre law route. But for now, lets prepare for online school. YAY!
---
I'm so glad that you are almost done with school, Mom. It'll be nice to have a break! Eva is a YCL??? Dang she is so old. She's probably 6ft by now!
YANKEES! Yay. I bet you all had a great time- did you take pictures???
----------
Now here for the Lopo update.
Everything is going great here. We are trying to work hard- we have a bunch of referrals we need to contact and we have a lot to do! Its so nice. We are doing good things and we are seeing the blessings!
Sorella Richards and I have decided to speak practically only in Italian. I want to speak only in Italian for the next 2 transfers and so we're starting now so we can be ready.
President switched up how he does transfer calls...we get the call Saturday now, so by next PDay we'll have already heard about transfers. I really hope I stay with Sorella Richards for my last 2. We are doing GREAT THINGS and we fit together so well. We are a good team and I love her so much.
You won't believe this...but since she got here (5 wks ago), I have lost 10 lbs!!! From working out and being healthy. IT WORKS! ha ha. One of the elders here had an extra jump rope and he gave it to me....man, jumping rope is Amazing! I love it! I also have this elastic band from the MTC and these two things are incredibly useful. Im doing it! Im changing my life. all thanks to Sorella Richards and her motivation, example, and diligence.
We are doing really well here. Our investigator Virginia, who has a baptismal date, reminds me of the Brother of Jared when the Lord says, ''there has never been such great faith among all the children of men...and for these he could not be kept from seeing Beyond the veil''...summarization....but yeah! SHE'S SOOOOOOO GREAT. She has such faith.
We had to see her at 8am the other day and after our lesson with her, she stayed with us and we all did companion study together! Amazing. and soooo spiritual. I want to be like this with all of investigators!
Well I think that's it. I love your updates and hearing about what you all are doing. It makes me feel more motivated. We're doing great here, so it looks like we're all doing well except Mom's foot. Sorry Mommy!
Keep doing good things...and like I used to say, NEVER GIVE UP! This has been the hardest and most rewarding time of my life. I'm going to make it through, and its going to be amazing! :)
I know our Heavenly Father loves us. He is more than just a God, but our Father who wants us to make Him a part of our lives. I am reminded every day of the scripture ''consider the lillies''. He has control and for that, we dont need to fear. I know that He is taking care of us and that brings me peace-
Behold, I am a disciple of Jesus Christ, the Son of God....Eccomi qua in missione! Who would have thought that I, Me Zoe Jade Carlock, could get here? Well, Heavenly Father did, and I thank Him every day for His merciful plan for me.
Thank you for all of your love and support. I am sooo grateful that I get to be with you 3 forever. Thats something special. I cant wait to hug you again....well I can wait....but its going to be great!
Until next week,
Sorella Carlock
Sixty-four: July 23, 2014 Vicenza
This has been such a great week. In the past 2 weeks we have found 3 families! SO GREAT....we didnt reach our 500 goal...not even close. But we talked to more people and I even jumped off my bike to go talk to someone! It has been soooo great.
----
These past weeks with Sorella Richards have been so great. My favorite transfer so far, other than the 2 when I was with Sorella Harward. Sorella Richards is changing my life and its all by example. She is so humble, kind, loving, funny, and sweet. She is a great missionary. We are really doing good finding work and trying to Always improve and be better. We are really becoming better missionaries.
I am not the same person I was when I left. I have completely changed. I'm happy. I don't snap at anyone. I'm nice and huggy. I want to help out and clean and I make some mean Italian food. I'm not the same. And I know that you all wont be the same. I want you to know that so that you can prepare to get to know me again. and I am excited to know you all again. But do know that, I wont be the same. I'm a woman of God, a servant of the Lord, and a pure and worthy temple recommend holder. I am Zoe Jade Carlock, and I'm a Mormon. ...
But really. I cant wait to get to know you all again.
And to think...after 3 more months how much more different I will be!!!! WOW. I have like so much to do in this time and I am so grateful Im still here to do it. Heavenly Father is so merciful. He is all-knowing and soooo loving. What a great Father. He has shaped and molded me into someone I have Always wanted to be, but I was so lost that I couldn't find the way.
Eva, you better prepare for a mission. It is going to change your life and you are going to love it. WOW!
--- I love you all. I pray for you Always and I hope that you are happy and being blessed.
You are my sunshines and I am happy that we can be together forever!
LOVE YOU
Sorella Carlock
----
These past weeks with Sorella Richards have been so great. My favorite transfer so far, other than the 2 when I was with Sorella Harward. Sorella Richards is changing my life and its all by example. She is so humble, kind, loving, funny, and sweet. She is a great missionary. We are really doing good finding work and trying to Always improve and be better. We are really becoming better missionaries.
I am not the same person I was when I left. I have completely changed. I'm happy. I don't snap at anyone. I'm nice and huggy. I want to help out and clean and I make some mean Italian food. I'm not the same. And I know that you all wont be the same. I want you to know that so that you can prepare to get to know me again. and I am excited to know you all again. But do know that, I wont be the same. I'm a woman of God, a servant of the Lord, and a pure and worthy temple recommend holder. I am Zoe Jade Carlock, and I'm a Mormon. ...
But really. I cant wait to get to know you all again.
And to think...after 3 more months how much more different I will be!!!! WOW. I have like so much to do in this time and I am so grateful Im still here to do it. Heavenly Father is so merciful. He is all-knowing and soooo loving. What a great Father. He has shaped and molded me into someone I have Always wanted to be, but I was so lost that I couldn't find the way.
Eva, you better prepare for a mission. It is going to change your life and you are going to love it. WOW!
--- I love you all. I pray for you Always and I hope that you are happy and being blessed.
You are my sunshines and I am happy that we can be together forever!
LOVE YOU
Sorella Carlock
Sixty-three: July 16, 2014 Vicenza
This has been a really great week! A lot has happened since last week.
I want you to come to all of the cities I've served in:
Milano
Genova
Vicenza
Then we NEED to see:
Venice
Rome
maybe Florence
Sorella Richards served there and she said its really dirty and not what we think, but it would be cool to go get leather bags or get our scriptures rebound there (that's where all the missionaries go to get their scriptures rebound).
The Bern temple.
I think we will have a wonderful experience. Italy will not be NEARLY as beautiful in Christmastime as it is now in July, BUT you will feel the Christmas spirit in a beautiful land and it will be the strongest you have ever felt in anywhere. Its powerful here. And maybe we'll have snow! Think of that. Snow in Italy- beautiful!
----
This has been a good week here in the mission field.
We have set a challenge between us and the Elders to talk to 500 people this week. We are at 31....but we are stopping everyone we can...when we aren't riding bikes. REALLY...everyone! Its so much fun! I don't even care when people reject us anymore...because I know I'm doing my part. I feel great! I don't care if we even reach 100...I just want to keep going and keep trying to find those who are ready!
ALSO! WE SET A BAPTISMAL DATE! We have been teaching this girl and trying to set a date with her since I got her in April...she's been investigating the church since she was like 12....she just turned 20.
She has quit smoking, she's exercising, she's reading 5 chapters a week of the Book of Mormon and trying to come to church (she lives 1 1/2 hrs away and works on Sunday in her family's restaurant)- She is sooo amazing. She understands what she reads and teaches us!! Her date is for August 22nd. I'm hoping to still be here for that! So amazing!!!!
---
I LOVE MY COMPANION! We have been exercising at night because we have trouble getting to it in the morning. But she is helping me be healthy...not skinny, but healthy. She is sweet and so committed to being a missionary. She stops so many people on the street and she tried really hard to say the right thing. She is a tender mercy...
I almost killed her though today...ha ha oops! We were hiking up to a castle on a mountain and it was hot and humid...on the way back down, we past a plum tree and she said she wanted fruit. Trees here in Italy, like olive or fruit trees grow out from the side of the mountain....like sideways---so this tree was kind of at the edge of a dropping point down the mountain. She said ''should I grab one?'' and I said ''yeah yeah you'll be fine. just do it''....well she gets close and goes to reach for a fruit and SLIPS DOWN THE SIDE OF THE MOUNTAIN!...LUCKILY, luckily...she slipped onto the path below us, that I didn't know was there, it was only about 4 feet down...
OMG, che orrore. I thought I had killed my companion...I almost jumped off the mountain after her.
Well, there is our P-Day adventure! Fun, right?
All good though, just a few splinters. Man, am I glad she didn't die.
--- Anyway. Its been a great week and I feel like its going to keep getting better. Thank you for your help with the genealogy and thanks for asking Dad about it. I'll email him .
I love you all sooo much
EMAIL ME SIBLINGS, what the heck :)
I love you all and pray for you every night! :)
Be good and keep being good examples
Let me know if you need anything from me or any more info about ....what ever thing
SORELLA LOPO
I want you to come to all of the cities I've served in:
Milano
Genova
Vicenza
Then we NEED to see:
Venice
Rome
maybe Florence
Sorella Richards served there and she said its really dirty and not what we think, but it would be cool to go get leather bags or get our scriptures rebound there (that's where all the missionaries go to get their scriptures rebound).
The Bern temple.
I think we will have a wonderful experience. Italy will not be NEARLY as beautiful in Christmastime as it is now in July, BUT you will feel the Christmas spirit in a beautiful land and it will be the strongest you have ever felt in anywhere. Its powerful here. And maybe we'll have snow! Think of that. Snow in Italy- beautiful!
----
This has been a good week here in the mission field.
We have set a challenge between us and the Elders to talk to 500 people this week. We are at 31....but we are stopping everyone we can...when we aren't riding bikes. REALLY...everyone! Its so much fun! I don't even care when people reject us anymore...because I know I'm doing my part. I feel great! I don't care if we even reach 100...I just want to keep going and keep trying to find those who are ready!
ALSO! WE SET A BAPTISMAL DATE! We have been teaching this girl and trying to set a date with her since I got her in April...she's been investigating the church since she was like 12....she just turned 20.
She has quit smoking, she's exercising, she's reading 5 chapters a week of the Book of Mormon and trying to come to church (she lives 1 1/2 hrs away and works on Sunday in her family's restaurant)- She is sooo amazing. She understands what she reads and teaches us!! Her date is for August 22nd. I'm hoping to still be here for that! So amazing!!!!
---
I LOVE MY COMPANION! We have been exercising at night because we have trouble getting to it in the morning. But she is helping me be healthy...not skinny, but healthy. She is sweet and so committed to being a missionary. She stops so many people on the street and she tried really hard to say the right thing. She is a tender mercy...
I almost killed her though today...ha ha oops! We were hiking up to a castle on a mountain and it was hot and humid...on the way back down, we past a plum tree and she said she wanted fruit. Trees here in Italy, like olive or fruit trees grow out from the side of the mountain....like sideways---so this tree was kind of at the edge of a dropping point down the mountain. She said ''should I grab one?'' and I said ''yeah yeah you'll be fine. just do it''....well she gets close and goes to reach for a fruit and SLIPS DOWN THE SIDE OF THE MOUNTAIN!...LUCKILY, luckily...she slipped onto the path below us, that I didn't know was there, it was only about 4 feet down...
OMG, che orrore. I thought I had killed my companion...I almost jumped off the mountain after her.
Well, there is our P-Day adventure! Fun, right?
All good though, just a few splinters. Man, am I glad she didn't die.
--- Anyway. Its been a great week and I feel like its going to keep getting better. Thank you for your help with the genealogy and thanks for asking Dad about it. I'll email him .
I love you all sooo much
EMAIL ME SIBLINGS, what the heck :)
I love you all and pray for you every night! :)
Be good and keep being good examples
Let me know if you need anything from me or any more info about ....what ever thing
SORELLA LOPO
Sixty-two: July 9, 2014 Vicenza
Thank you so much for all of your emails and all of the nice things you said-
I had a good birthday
Thursday we had a July 3rd, 4th of July BBQ ha ha. All of the military people had off on the 4th so we did it a day early
Friday we had to buy new bikes because the other got stolen. But that was like a birthday present even though I wont be keeping it ha ha-
Saturday our Ward Mission Leader in the military ward and his wife to us out to SUSHI! and gelato. It was so fun.-
Sunday the Elders made us all lunch and then the Christensens (Maribel & David's) family made us dinner and a cake. They put my head in the cake ah ah. I'll send pictures.
It was just a good week. I feel good and I am happy that Heavenly Father has given us this life to live and the opportunity to serve in Italy for this 1 year of my life.
--
I'm trying to work on re-consecrating myself and really giving all that I can...even if its little compared to what I could have done before. I want to give my all and I plan on coming home feeling peace about leaving the mission field. I'm going to do it.
I am so glad you had a good time at Palmyra and I am really excited to hear about the Ramadan thing you went to. You didn't send pictures! Send some pictures! Ha ha.
Well, my companion is really helping me. We exercise a lot and we eat really well. I am exercising! WAHOO! Like almost every day. I feel good.-more tired, but good. She is so conscientious ...how do you spell that??? of being healthy and its nice. I'm not so committed yet but I'm doing well.
Did you know that trans fat is a fat that stays in your body and its harder to lose because its modified to have a long shelf life...peanut butter has trans fat. cookie mix has trans-fat. Stuff like that. We're trying to avoid that stuff. Anyway, I'm getting healthier and she is an answer to prayers. I prayed to find a way to create a healthy lifestyle now so that I could keep it up when I go home and I got Sorella Richards! Perfect no?
Anyway. Its been a great week. We have like 1 investigator who has decided to quit smoking and come to church. Doesn't want to commit to baptism but she quit smoking! 5 days now! WAHOO!
Other than that, we don't have any real investigators but we found a girl yesterday who was so sweet and seemed really interested.
---
Allora (thats an italian word for ''and now'' more or less. it means a million things to be honest), just wanted to say thank you for your fast and your prayers. They are working! I'm not perfectly healed...but I'd say pretty dang close. You are helping me get through and together we are doing this!
I love you all with my whole soul. I can't believe you are my family. How blessed am I? I love you and cherish you. Thank you. Thank you- thank you.
Be good. Keep emailing me. and send pictures!!!
Love you
Sorella Carlock
I had a good birthday
Thursday we had a July 3rd, 4th of July BBQ ha ha. All of the military people had off on the 4th so we did it a day early
Friday we had to buy new bikes because the other got stolen. But that was like a birthday present even though I wont be keeping it ha ha-
Saturday our Ward Mission Leader in the military ward and his wife to us out to SUSHI! and gelato. It was so fun.-
Sunday the Elders made us all lunch and then the Christensens (Maribel & David's) family made us dinner and a cake. They put my head in the cake ah ah. I'll send pictures.
It was just a good week. I feel good and I am happy that Heavenly Father has given us this life to live and the opportunity to serve in Italy for this 1 year of my life.
--
I'm trying to work on re-consecrating myself and really giving all that I can...even if its little compared to what I could have done before. I want to give my all and I plan on coming home feeling peace about leaving the mission field. I'm going to do it.
I am so glad you had a good time at Palmyra and I am really excited to hear about the Ramadan thing you went to. You didn't send pictures! Send some pictures! Ha ha.
Well, my companion is really helping me. We exercise a lot and we eat really well. I am exercising! WAHOO! Like almost every day. I feel good.-more tired, but good. She is so conscientious ...how do you spell that??? of being healthy and its nice. I'm not so committed yet but I'm doing well.
Did you know that trans fat is a fat that stays in your body and its harder to lose because its modified to have a long shelf life...peanut butter has trans fat. cookie mix has trans-fat. Stuff like that. We're trying to avoid that stuff. Anyway, I'm getting healthier and she is an answer to prayers. I prayed to find a way to create a healthy lifestyle now so that I could keep it up when I go home and I got Sorella Richards! Perfect no?
Anyway. Its been a great week. We have like 1 investigator who has decided to quit smoking and come to church. Doesn't want to commit to baptism but she quit smoking! 5 days now! WAHOO!
Other than that, we don't have any real investigators but we found a girl yesterday who was so sweet and seemed really interested.
---
Allora (thats an italian word for ''and now'' more or less. it means a million things to be honest), just wanted to say thank you for your fast and your prayers. They are working! I'm not perfectly healed...but I'd say pretty dang close. You are helping me get through and together we are doing this!
I love you all with my whole soul. I can't believe you are my family. How blessed am I? I love you and cherish you. Thank you. Thank you- thank you.
Be good. Keep emailing me. and send pictures!!!
Love you
Sorella Carlock
Sixty-One: July 2, 2014 Vicenza
I'm getting old!
Thank you for all of the birthday wishes and for the sweet things that you said. Thanks for the song, Eva!
I really like my new companion, Sorella Richards. She's from a small town in Utah near Ogden and she is 20 years old. She's just very nice. She exercises and is really good about eating healthful foods so I've been exercising with her and trying to eat better. It's been nice. I feel better. I have been trying to exercise every morning and I am so grateful for her example. I've been struggling with my opinion of myself and how I look, and this is going to help me not have any reason to hate myself- I don't believe in being ''skinny''. I believe in being healthy. I want to be healthy and a safe weight- I've gained 20 pounds during the mission...oops! So we're going to turn that into something a little more healthy.
---
My companion and I are getting along and we had a really good talk the other day- We're going through similar spiritual struggles and we just talked about it and we were able to get to know each other better and I was able to feel the Spirit from something I said. I feel like I've had a hard time feeling the Spirit like I used to.
You know, when you're not a missionary, every spiritual prompting seems so clear. But I think sometimes because we live surrounded by it, its harder to determine the little things, the daily things. So that was a nice experience.
Well. I really am glad that you sent some money for my birthday. I prefer that because I want to keep italy with me and I can only get Italian stuff here, so its perfect. Thank you!
I love you all soo much.
Mommy, I hope classes aren't too boring and that you enjoy Ramadan.
Tanney, I am so proud of you and your NYC internship! Tanney the MANNEY!
Eva, I totally loved the song and I hope practices are going great!
Please keep emailing me. Give me all of the details!
I love you all so much- you are growing my testimony by YOUR faith in Heavenly Father and your faith in me! Thank you for not throwing me out with the bath water :) I love you 3 soooooo much.
I love you and miss you and sing in the shower all of the lullabies!
Vi amo così tanto
Non dimenticatevi quanto siete speciali!
Sorella Lopina, going strong....or at least going!
Thank you for all of the birthday wishes and for the sweet things that you said. Thanks for the song, Eva!
I really like my new companion, Sorella Richards. She's from a small town in Utah near Ogden and she is 20 years old. She's just very nice. She exercises and is really good about eating healthful foods so I've been exercising with her and trying to eat better. It's been nice. I feel better. I have been trying to exercise every morning and I am so grateful for her example. I've been struggling with my opinion of myself and how I look, and this is going to help me not have any reason to hate myself- I don't believe in being ''skinny''. I believe in being healthy. I want to be healthy and a safe weight- I've gained 20 pounds during the mission...oops! So we're going to turn that into something a little more healthy.
---
My companion and I are getting along and we had a really good talk the other day- We're going through similar spiritual struggles and we just talked about it and we were able to get to know each other better and I was able to feel the Spirit from something I said. I feel like I've had a hard time feeling the Spirit like I used to.
You know, when you're not a missionary, every spiritual prompting seems so clear. But I think sometimes because we live surrounded by it, its harder to determine the little things, the daily things. So that was a nice experience.
Well. I really am glad that you sent some money for my birthday. I prefer that because I want to keep italy with me and I can only get Italian stuff here, so its perfect. Thank you!
I love you all soo much.
Mommy, I hope classes aren't too boring and that you enjoy Ramadan.
Tanney, I am so proud of you and your NYC internship! Tanney the MANNEY!
Eva, I totally loved the song and I hope practices are going great!
Please keep emailing me. Give me all of the details!
I love you all so much- you are growing my testimony by YOUR faith in Heavenly Father and your faith in me! Thank you for not throwing me out with the bath water :) I love you 3 soooooo much.
I love you and miss you and sing in the shower all of the lullabies!
Vi amo così tanto
Non dimenticatevi quanto siete speciali!
Sorella Lopina, going strong....or at least going!
Sixty: June 25, 2014 Vicenza
Hello again, famiglia!
How are you??
Well, it has been raining like crazy!!!! these past few days. It even hailed last night and I think one of the ice balls bruised my arm....I stuck my arm out the window, probably not the best idea.
Well.....the baptism was beautiful and so spiritual! Everyone did their part and it was just lovely.
Children sang and there was a violin. Lovely.
The talks were in Spanish and I understand EVERYTHING!
When they were both baptized, we went to help Maribel dry off and she said the sweetest thing.
''Me siento de llorar. Me siento buonita'' I feel like crying. I feel so good.
and she just cried and I hugged her and she was all wet. She and David gave their testimonies too and they were sooo sweet.
They kept saying, ''I'm so grateful for the opportunity to learn more about God.'' They call us the Sorellas (soreyas) like a mix of spanish and italian. They said ''I'm grateful to the sorellas for helping me know a better life''. What's better than that?
Its been such an answer to prayers. I really want to see someone from beginning to end...teach all the way through til baptism and after and we did that! So special. Heavenly Father really blessed us. He is listening. I know that.
---
Sorella Warncke is being transferred to Muggiò, you remember the city Sorella Harward and I went to where we almost missed the train and we almost missed the permesso apptmnt because we got to the building 5 minutes before they stopped taking people? City of miracles! HA! That city helped me learn ''consider the lillies''. Its also the city that helped me love Italy more, the train-station-cafe-with-my-hot-chocolate-and-croissant city. Two of my companions have served there already. Its right outside of my old area in Milano. Sorella Warncke will be with someone from my MTC group who was actually trained by Sorella Harward. kind of funny!
Also...my new companion, Sorella Richards, was trained my Sorella Strong, my MTC companion. Weird! I'm way excited. She's going to be in her 4th transfer so she's pretty young still in the mission which is cool. It helps keep a fresh perspective.
----
We have been spending a lot of time doing service. A family, american family in the italian ward, is going back to Utah for their daughter's wedding and we have been helping them prepare and clean up/out their basement. We'll go back tomorrow again. Its been really great. You kind of forget everything when you're helping others.
I am soooo thankful for all of your support and help, it does really help!
Eva I made a staircase plan! wahoo!
Thank you Mommy for the Ebeneezer discussion
Tanney, thank you for helping me focus on the road...where ive come from, and where I still have to go.
I only have about 4 months left. Crazy. I thought it would be so different than it has been. Its been soooo beautiful. So worth it. Every second. I have really changed. Like a lot! And I still have work to do, duh! But I know I can get there. Thank you for patiently walking through this with me. This isn't just my accomplishment, this is our accomplishment. This is our missionary service. Thank you for doing this with me and for having a special fast day for me. Thank you. I love you. All 4 of you!!!
I can't wait to hug you all again. I can, but can't wait for that moment. Oh man, I'm going to cry like a newborn baby. Its going to be so great. This is by far, BY FAR, the hardest thing I have EVER done...ever. And its soo worth it. Its really, really hard. But it doesnt even matter. Heavenly Father's plan makes sense to Him and thats all that matters. He knows what He's doing with me. I'm going to be just a little bit shinier once He's through with me here and its going to be great.
I honestly think He's just trying to teach me how to rely on Him and trust Him, but also to , like you said Mommy, simply be there for Him when He needs me..I can't do that if I'm not ready. He's preparing me for the rest of my life.
Well...I hope its all uphill from here, but I know it wont be. Itll still be rough and I'll still have a hard time. But I can make it to August 8th and I think I can make it to October 31st. I'm sure going to try.
I really do appreciate all of your love and care. Thank you. I hope Heavenly Father is blessing you for this. I really do. I am praying every night that He does. Now in all your support for me, I hope YOU are all doing well. Do YOU need help? What can I do for you?
Let me know how everything is going
I love you all
Thank you
Sorella Lopo
How are you??
Well, it has been raining like crazy!!!! these past few days. It even hailed last night and I think one of the ice balls bruised my arm....I stuck my arm out the window, probably not the best idea.
Well.....the baptism was beautiful and so spiritual! Everyone did their part and it was just lovely.
Children sang and there was a violin. Lovely.
The talks were in Spanish and I understand EVERYTHING!
When they were both baptized, we went to help Maribel dry off and she said the sweetest thing.
''Me siento de llorar. Me siento buonita'' I feel like crying. I feel so good.
and she just cried and I hugged her and she was all wet. She and David gave their testimonies too and they were sooo sweet.
They kept saying, ''I'm so grateful for the opportunity to learn more about God.'' They call us the Sorellas (soreyas) like a mix of spanish and italian. They said ''I'm grateful to the sorellas for helping me know a better life''. What's better than that?
Its been such an answer to prayers. I really want to see someone from beginning to end...teach all the way through til baptism and after and we did that! So special. Heavenly Father really blessed us. He is listening. I know that.
---
Sorella Warncke is being transferred to Muggiò, you remember the city Sorella Harward and I went to where we almost missed the train and we almost missed the permesso apptmnt because we got to the building 5 minutes before they stopped taking people? City of miracles! HA! That city helped me learn ''consider the lillies''. Its also the city that helped me love Italy more, the train-station-cafe-with-my-hot-chocolate-and-croissant city. Two of my companions have served there already. Its right outside of my old area in Milano. Sorella Warncke will be with someone from my MTC group who was actually trained by Sorella Harward. kind of funny!
Also...my new companion, Sorella Richards, was trained my Sorella Strong, my MTC companion. Weird! I'm way excited. She's going to be in her 4th transfer so she's pretty young still in the mission which is cool. It helps keep a fresh perspective.
----
We have been spending a lot of time doing service. A family, american family in the italian ward, is going back to Utah for their daughter's wedding and we have been helping them prepare and clean up/out their basement. We'll go back tomorrow again. Its been really great. You kind of forget everything when you're helping others.
I am soooo thankful for all of your support and help, it does really help!
Eva I made a staircase plan! wahoo!
Thank you Mommy for the Ebeneezer discussion
Tanney, thank you for helping me focus on the road...where ive come from, and where I still have to go.
I only have about 4 months left. Crazy. I thought it would be so different than it has been. Its been soooo beautiful. So worth it. Every second. I have really changed. Like a lot! And I still have work to do, duh! But I know I can get there. Thank you for patiently walking through this with me. This isn't just my accomplishment, this is our accomplishment. This is our missionary service. Thank you for doing this with me and for having a special fast day for me. Thank you. I love you. All 4 of you!!!
I can't wait to hug you all again. I can, but can't wait for that moment. Oh man, I'm going to cry like a newborn baby. Its going to be so great. This is by far, BY FAR, the hardest thing I have EVER done...ever. And its soo worth it. Its really, really hard. But it doesnt even matter. Heavenly Father's plan makes sense to Him and thats all that matters. He knows what He's doing with me. I'm going to be just a little bit shinier once He's through with me here and its going to be great.
I honestly think He's just trying to teach me how to rely on Him and trust Him, but also to , like you said Mommy, simply be there for Him when He needs me..I can't do that if I'm not ready. He's preparing me for the rest of my life.
Well...I hope its all uphill from here, but I know it wont be. Itll still be rough and I'll still have a hard time. But I can make it to August 8th and I think I can make it to October 31st. I'm sure going to try.
I really do appreciate all of your love and care. Thank you. I hope Heavenly Father is blessing you for this. I really do. I am praying every night that He does. Now in all your support for me, I hope YOU are all doing well. Do YOU need help? What can I do for you?
Let me know how everything is going
I love you all
Thank you
Sorella Lopo
Fifty-nine: June 18, 2014 Vicenza
Hey family
How are you?
I got the package! Im wearing contacts right now!! WOW! Feels weird.
Thanks for the package of crayons ha ha. Ive already used a bunch of them. Thank you.
Thanks for the other good stuff. Ha ha. I cant tie the bracelet on and my companion cant help because of her wrist, so I don't have it on, but it'll get on there soon.
Well we had a Zone Conference yesterday in Bologna and it was really nice to see all of my friends and other missionaries. A lot of it was about being more obedient and not making lame excuses for breaking the rules.
The scambio with Sorella Strong was amazing. It was so nice to recall all of the wonderful experiences we had. I was able to see her shine and see the success that she has had, and all of her growth. We worked really well together I think and I am so glad Heavenly Father blessed me with her as a companion, and the opportunity to be with her again. It was great!
Maribel and David are getting baptized on Saturday! We are going to Mestre, which is the inland city around Venice. the chapel is beautiful. That is where Sorella Strong serves so Ill get to see her again.
I am so excited for them! They are great and they are really excited too. I can almost understand everything they say, which is nice. My speech is getting better. Its kind of nice because that is such a cool thing, that I can understand them and we can communicate. But the best part about them and teaching them is we dont even have to speak the same language, we can still communicate and feel the same things.
---
I know that Heavenly Father lives and loves me. I know that Jesus Christ suffered these pains, the pains of being without friends, the pains of sadness, the pains of defeat. Because He descended below them all, into the depths of despair and felt ALL that we have ever felt, He was given all of the joy there is that comes from victory and strength and endurance and love. He knows the joy because He felt the pain. I know He lives again and triumphed over death and sin. I, too, want to follow in His footsteps. I'm going to keep trying. I have to. I just have to. There is no other choice.
I love you all and I pray always that Heavenly Father will continue to bless you. I know He is and He will. I love you three with ALL of my heart. You bring me joy and hope. I love you!
Be good and keep going. Dont give up, right?
Sorella Lo
How are you?
I got the package! Im wearing contacts right now!! WOW! Feels weird.
Thanks for the package of crayons ha ha. Ive already used a bunch of them. Thank you.
Thanks for the other good stuff. Ha ha. I cant tie the bracelet on and my companion cant help because of her wrist, so I don't have it on, but it'll get on there soon.
Well we had a Zone Conference yesterday in Bologna and it was really nice to see all of my friends and other missionaries. A lot of it was about being more obedient and not making lame excuses for breaking the rules.
The scambio with Sorella Strong was amazing. It was so nice to recall all of the wonderful experiences we had. I was able to see her shine and see the success that she has had, and all of her growth. We worked really well together I think and I am so glad Heavenly Father blessed me with her as a companion, and the opportunity to be with her again. It was great!
Maribel and David are getting baptized on Saturday! We are going to Mestre, which is the inland city around Venice. the chapel is beautiful. That is where Sorella Strong serves so Ill get to see her again.
I am so excited for them! They are great and they are really excited too. I can almost understand everything they say, which is nice. My speech is getting better. Its kind of nice because that is such a cool thing, that I can understand them and we can communicate. But the best part about them and teaching them is we dont even have to speak the same language, we can still communicate and feel the same things.
---
I know that Heavenly Father lives and loves me. I know that Jesus Christ suffered these pains, the pains of being without friends, the pains of sadness, the pains of defeat. Because He descended below them all, into the depths of despair and felt ALL that we have ever felt, He was given all of the joy there is that comes from victory and strength and endurance and love. He knows the joy because He felt the pain. I know He lives again and triumphed over death and sin. I, too, want to follow in His footsteps. I'm going to keep trying. I have to. I just have to. There is no other choice.
I love you all and I pray always that Heavenly Father will continue to bless you. I know He is and He will. I love you three with ALL of my heart. You bring me joy and hope. I love you!
Be good and keep going. Dont give up, right?
Sorella Lo
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