tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30714468694008076742024-03-12T20:57:24.268-07:00Loradona is in Omaha!Debra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.comBlogger81125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-18767897824477038732014-10-29T18:26:00.001-07:002014-10-29T18:26:11.770-07:00Homeward Bound<div>
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This is my last email from the mission field. I have only a few hours left in Lincoln before they ship me off to Omaha. Fun fact that is bringing my mission full circle: I will be staying the night with the Plattsmouth Sisters (Plattsmouth was my first area) with Sister Youngberg as a sort of temporary companion (she was my MTC companion, remember?). <br /><br />I am a little sad, and a little happy. It's definitely bittersweet. I have loved Nebraska and being a missionary, but I miss family and friends. And ice cream. :) I have avoided telling people I was leaving until this last week, and some people were truly surprised. Remember Muhammed? We had lunch with him again this week, and I told him I was leaving, and he went through all the stages of grief, in about 20 minutes. Denial: "You tell the church you not leave!" Sadness: "This is bad news, Miss May. Very Bad!" Anger: "I am angry about this, Miss May!" Acceptance: "In two or three months, you come back here!" I forget one of the stages in there (Wait, is it bargaining? Because he totally tried to bargain with me: "You stay just a little longer. You part of my family"). He wasn't the only one. I hadn't even told my ward mission leader until our final coordination meeting, and he was sad, too. <br /><br />Although, there have been some benefits! One woman in the ward agreed to feed us, and made the best African food ever! Another made me cinnamon rolls (they are back at the apartment right now, waiting for me to devour them!), and I have been using my impending departure as an excuse to get in doors. When one sister answered the door and saw us, she said,, "Not today. I'm busy." I then replied, "Oh, that's okay. We just wanted to stop by and say good bye. I leave next week..." And then she let us right in! It was amazing! <br /><br />Did I mention that I got wrangled into singing in church last week? Yep, Sis. McCauley played the piano and I sang "Brightly Beams Our Father's Mercy" as a musical number. It wasn't too terrible :)<br /></div>
I am running out of time, but I will be able to see and talk to people soon! I love you all, and thank you for supporting me while I was on a mission. I truly appreciate it. <br /></div>
Love,</div>
Sister Loradona MayDebra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-83904227243967273082014-10-21T06:31:00.001-07:002014-10-21T06:31:31.256-07:00So much to say...<div class="MsoNormal">
This week was a fun week, but also
filled with craziness. Sister McCauley has been sick and finally went to
the doctor. She is now taking fun meds and is feeling a lot better, so
that's good. We have been doing crazy service for people, which is good.
I like service. I also love that we can grow closer to members of the
ward. </div>
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We were also able to see “Meet the Mormons” this week with a
member of the ward and her non-member husband. We were so excited to be
able to go, but we were also nervous because some people have told us he is
anti-Mormon. His wife feeds us, but she just brings us our meals. We never have
meals in their home. When they picked us up, the first thing out of his mouth
was, “I’m in a bad mood today!” Almost the second thing out of his mouth was, “I
was born Lutheran, and I’m gonna die a Lutheran!” Sister McCauley and I
thought, “Oh boy, this should be fun…” But as the drive continued, he warmed up
to us, and told us all about his life in the Navy, his parents, and their kids.
At the theater, he seemed to enjoy himself. And as we left and began talking
about the film, he grudgingly admitted that “It was okay.” During the car ride
back to Lincoln, however, he opened up and we had some good discussions. He
ended our talk of the film by saying, “That was a good movie for anyone—of any
faith! I would tell anyone they should see it, and if they disagree, I’ll tell ‘em
what to do!” It turned into a really great experience for all of us. <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_171773748" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">On Sunday</span></span>,
his wife thanked us for asking them to go and said it was another good step
towards him being more familiar with the Church. “A few years ago,” she said, “You
never would have got him in the car! This was huge!” So success achieved!</div>
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It
was so weird to be in a movie theater, though. As a missionary, we
can't watch TV, and spend every moment around a screen trying not to
look at it. So when the previews came on, I had the biggest urge to look
away, because I felt like I wasn't allowed to be there! Ha! I got over
it pretty quickly, though, don't you worry! I definitely enjoyed my
taste of movie theater popcorn for the first time in over 18 months!
Yum!</div>
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We also experienced Christlike love and service in action in
our ward. A woman we have been helping with her scripture study had her car
break down, and her financial situation is not the best. When she broke down
crying and called her visiting teacher for a ride to work the next day (it was
<span class="aBn" data-term="goog_171773749" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">10 pm</span></span>) the visiting teacher came right over and hugged her while she cried, and
didn’t let go until she stopped. <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_171773750" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">On Saturday</span></span>,
her home teacher spent all day—sacrificing
his time and money—to help get her car running. We were at her home
helping her
clean because she felt so overwhelmed, and she told us all the support
she’d
felt and the love and we witnessed her home teacher’s dedication, and it
was
just the loveliest thing. It just reminded me how wonderful it is to
serve, and
the ripples that each action causes. And then our dinner appointment
asked us
if there was anyone we wanted to invite to dinner, we said we wanted to
invite
her, and she was so touched. We got to go to Indian food! I love Indian
food. I ate waaaay too much, and enjoyed it thoroughly. So did the
sister we invited to join us, so life is good. It was a good week to be a
missionary in Holmes
Lake.</div>
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We had
another family invite us to go to see "Meet the Mormons," but since the
Elders in our ward have struggled to find someone to take them, we
suggested they ask the Elders. We would gladly go again, but we didn't
want to hoard all the opportunities. And they did ask the Elders! WHen
we saw the Elders <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_171773751" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Sunday</span></span>,
they said to us, "We owe you Sisters sooooo much!" We were like, "Yeah
you do!" Ha! It's cool, though. It's all about forging positive
relationships and working together in the ward. I love it!</div>
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One last funny story: <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_171773752" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">On Sunday</span></span>, as Sister McCauley and I
were standing at the chapel doors, a little girl approached us. “Are you Sister
Missionaries?” she asked. Yes, we are! We replied. “Do you sleep overnight at
the temple?” she asked. No, we said. But it was really cute, and it makes me
glad to be here. </div>
<br />I love you all, and I feel like I can finally admit that I
might be seeing you soon! I love you! Don't write me letters this week
(who knows if I'd get them in time!). Just write me emails, and you can
tell others to do that, too. <a href="mailto:loradona.may@myldsmail.net" target="_blank">loradona.may@myldsmail.net</a>. <br /><br />I love you!<br />Sister Loradona MayDebra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-91632773205133051432014-10-21T06:30:00.001-07:002014-10-21T06:30:28.787-07:00Happy Columbus Day!<div>
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Some of the Sisters thought the
libraries wouldn't be open because it is Columbus Day. I said they were
open. Guess who won? It was me! Hooray!<br /></div>
And even bigger
hooray is the fact that someone I taught in Sioux City got baptized last
weekend! I didn't hear about it until today because I missed my former
companion's email about it last week. It's cool, though, because it was
the girl whose father wouldn't let her get baptized yet, but we'd taught
her all the lessons 3 times over. So instead we started giving her
piano lessons. And then I got transferred. But I found out that her Dad
finally gave permission, and she got baptized, <i>and</i> she played "I
am a Child of God" at the baptism! Some people might say I have tears in
my eyes at that, but it's just their word against mine, and no one
would ever believe them over me. <br /></div>
It's a lovely October day
here: 53 and raining! Feels like home. :) Luckily, Sister McCauley and I
have the car today, so we don't have to bike in the rain.
Unfortunately, our car share sisters have to bike in the rain... I guess
that's how it goes. <br /></div>
This last week we have been trying to
get people to take us to see "Meet the Mormons." Our mission president
has said we can go if we get a member to take us, and if we can get
someone who is not a member or someone who is less-active to go with us.
We're working on it, but so far, no dice. If the missionaries in your
area have the same restrictions, work on asking someone to join you and
take the missionaries with you! The missionaries will love you forever,
and might even volunteer to rake your leaves or something. Heck, they'd
probably rake your leaves regardless, but they really want to see "Meet
the Mormons." <br /></div>
I have I told you about Mohammed? He is a 72
year-old Pakistani man who comes to church every Sunday even though he
is not a member. He isn't about to change or convert any time soon, but
he looooooooves us. A lot. In fact, he tries to feed us all the time.
All. The. Time. And he feeds us ridiculous quantities of food, and keeps
pushing it on us. I never know what it is that he is feeding us.
There's a significant language barrier, and when I ask what something is
called, he moves on to some other topic. Anyway, last time we were
there, we had another sister from the ward there, and Mohammed had made a
chicken dish (along with 7 other dishes--all of them very spicy! Red
Chili spicy!). After we were waaaay overstuffed, Mohammed points to me,
"You like the chicken?" Yes, Mohammed, I loved the chicken! Then he
points to my companion: "You like the chicken?" Yes, it was very good.
Then he points to our team up: "You like the chicken?" Yes, it was
delicious! Then he points to the dish of chicken, "Then why there still
chicken?" Oh, boy. In fact, I think he has mistaken our appetites for
those of boys. More specifically, I think he has confused us with 16
year-old Samoan rugby players. He wants us to eat and eat and eat. He is
very sweet and well-meaning. I think he misses his daughters, all of
whom still live in Pakistan, and so he thinks he needs to feed us until
we pop. I have decided that when I feed the missionaries when I get
home, they will be able to dish themselves, and feel free to eat or not
eat anything. And if they have just come from a Pakistani household,
they don't have to eat anything. They can just sit on the sofa and let
food digest while they teach me a lesson. <br /></div>
That said, I am
still glad to be here, still working, and still teaching people! I love
you all, and I await your emails and letters! <br /></div>
Love,</div>
Sister Loradona MayDebra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-82297350912318742462014-10-11T13:27:00.001-07:002014-10-11T13:27:05.214-07:00Monday, Monday!<div>
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First off, I am thrilled that Cliff is
back! Hooray for life! That really makes my day. And a HUGE high-five
for Dad for emailing me the reunion photos. It made me ridiculously
happy! So far, Dad is ahead of everyone else by about 45 points.
Jeanette is in second place, because she is always sending me awesome
pictures of her babies! Hooray! Everyone else is tied. I love you all!
(There isn't really a contest. I hope you know that. I just like to
pretend there are points and a contest. It's amusing! Back to our
regularly scheduled email...)<br /></div>
So. I told you all about the
emergency move. But my week in service wasn't over. On Tuesday I went on
exchange in York and got to do service at Adopt-a-pet! We walked dogs
in the rain, fed them treats, and then went to the cat room. Those
kitties were so lonely that they came running to us when we entered the
room. At one point, I had 4 cats on me. I was so sad I forgot my camera
in the car. Sister Beers (the sister I was with) laughed at me really
hard. <br /></div>
That night it then rained 6-8 inches. I KNOW! So we
got a panicked call from a sister in the ward that morning: her basement
was flooded and could we help? We could! So Sister McCauley and I
quickly changed into service clothes and ran out the door. I ended up
missing breakfast because we didn't have time, and it was an emergency.
But I totally learned things about service this week. I think when you
serve, especially in ways that may not seem glamorous or in ways that
might not be popular, you feel Heavenly Father's love. And there is
always a need for love. <br /></div>
And then there was General
Conference! It was amazing, wasn't it? We got to go to members' homes
both days to watch the conference, and it was so much fun. They had food
and games and comfortable sofas. Most importantly, though, were the
messages. I loved them. My favorite might have been Elder Bednar's talk.
I feel like I want everyone everywhere to watch that talk, because it
explains why I serve a mission. I serve because I want everyone to have
the healing salve and bandages, too! If I have experienced the love and
care of someone helping me, then I want to help them! It really was
something that I loved the moment I heard the talk. It really hit me. <br /></div>
Hey,
my time is running out, but you know I love you, right? Right! I love
you all, even if I did award Dad more points. And, ultimately, it isn't
about points, anyway. It's about how much you mean to me, and how much I
appreciate your emails, letters, and support. I really do appreciate
it. Tons. <br /></div>
I can't wait to hear next week what you all have been up to! What were YOUR favorite parts of conference?<br /><br />Love,</div>
Sister Loradona MayDebra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-54513497227131980202014-10-02T19:08:00.001-07:002014-10-02T19:14:15.782-07:00Monday!<div>
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Hello fellow Earth travelers!</div>
This week
was a little less eventful than last, but a little more normal, which
is good. I just did normal missionary work, and did my thing. It was...
not exciting. But it was good! It was being a missionary, and we got to
do some service for the ward camp out by preparing food with the woman
in charge of food, Sister Mar. We got to help cut vegetables like pros,
and then we got a ride to the camp out so we actually got to eat the
fruits (or vegetables) of our labors! We, naturally, didn't stay the
night, but we did get to mingle with members and their families, and
just fellowship. It was nice!<br />
<br />
Even nicer was <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_523721181" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Saturday</span></span>,
which was the Women's General Meeting for conference. It was so
wonderful! I have been praying for help in establishing goals for
myself, and I got some answers while I was listening. I look forward to
more answers and revelation this next weekend. I hope you all pay close
attention to what you need to learn or hear at conference. I love that
we are able to hear from a prophet and apostles what God wants us to
know for our lives. It is something I really appreciate!</div>
Also,
we are emailing late today because we were asked to do a last minute
service to help a woman move. The missionaries in that area were
desperate for help for her since none of the ward members could be
there. I was a little crabby at first, which I'm a little ashamed about.
I mean, it's service. Just do it! Last night when we got the call, all I
could think was, "There are 6 days a week we could help, so why does it
have to be <i>this</i> day?" But I put my crabbiness behind me, and I'm
glad I did. We showed up, and there were 30 missionaries there! All of
the missionaries in Lincoln (minus one companionship--lame!) came to
help this sister move, and it was super fast. You should have seen those
Elders move the piano! Yikes! But I realized something: I really was
glad to help. And what is so special about Mondays that I feel I'm too
good to help someone? Christ wouldn't have crabbed about it. I studied
about Charity this morning in my studies, and I realized that I am not
supposed to be childish or selfish in my charity. Because charity
doesn't hold back. I need to have charity, and that was the lesson I
learned today. Plus I actually had a lot of fun and saw missionaries I
never get to see, so that was a bonus! Basically, do service, even if it
seems inconvenient, because there will be blessings in it for you. </div>
I
love you all! I've attached a photo of all the missionaries following
the move (from an apt. on the 2nd floor to an apt. on the 3rd
floor--that's a lot of floors with a piano! Just saying...)</div>
Love,<br />
Sister Loradona May<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Debra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-53256805392622724822014-09-22T16:34:00.001-07:002014-09-22T16:34:24.117-07:0010 Things About This Week<div>
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1. We had a broken fire alarm. </div>
We
were asked to make sure it worked. It did, but immediately after we
tested it, it began doing the "low battery chirp" thing. Ugh. That
happened all night. Luckily, it was <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1377493624" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">Monday</span></span> the next day and we could get a new battery! Hooray!<br /></div>
2. We had an awesome new member lesson with Whitney!</div>
She
is really neat. We helped put her at ease about speaking publicly and
serving, which was good. I am just so glad I get to work with her. <br /></div>
3. I went to the doctor</div>
Remember
how I've been sick? Yeah, I finally went to the doctor and I have a
sinus infection. Tah-dah! He took my temperature, and he said, "Oh, it
looks like you have a little fever!" I said, "I do? I do!" I finally
felt validated. I was trying to have a stiff upper lip about everything,
but suddenly I had permission to be sick. So I got a prescription of
antibiotics and went home and slept for 3 hours. Hooray! Now I am
feeling better, which is nice. Here's to an awesome coming week!<br /></div>
4. We went to visit someone who is a lost sheep, and her birthday is on <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1377493625" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">November 9</span></span>, right between Mom and Jeanette! <br />It made me think of both of you. That is all. <br /></div>
5. We had a really good dinner with a member, Tina!</div>
She told me I need to move to a big city. I said I'd think about it. I'll start with Portland. And her food was amazing!<br /></div>
6. Transfer week!</div>
Sister
McCauley and I are still together! Phew. It was a little uncertain at
first, but we're here together for one more transfer.<br /></div>
7. Transfer week!</div>
We
had been working as the only missionaries in our ward, but with
transfers came the news that we were getting Elders in our ward, too! We
pulled together some good teaching records, a ward list, and a map
color coded by area (to match the color coded ward list) to help them
out. I think they appreciated it. <br /></div>
8. We got taken to dinner with Sister Cole this week. </div>
She is cool, and has been on a cool trip to Scotland. It makes me want to plan a cool trip. <br /></div>
9. We had a rock and roll thunder storm. </div>
So,
I sleep with earplugs in a lot (my companion is NOT a quiet sleeper),
but I was awakened at one point by the thunder. Yikes! It was still
pretty cool, though.<br /></div>
10. Primary Program <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1377493626" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">Sunday</span></span>!</div>
Oh, man. I did <i>not</i>
make a Primary Program bingo card this year, but I did see some good
classic examples of some of my favorite things: One kid dancing during
songs, one little girl who kept beckoning her mom to join her on the
stand (Mom just kept shaking her head, "no"), one kid who kept waving,
one kid who got up to the microphone and promptly forgot what to say,
and so many others. Have you all had a primary program recently? How did
it go?<br /></div>
This week should be fun. Our ward camp out is this
weekend (Yeah, I don't get it either. Don't you normally have a ward
camp out in the summer?), and there is a RS activity, AND the general
Women's Broadcast <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1377493627" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Sunday</span></span>! It feels like the kickoff to General Conference, and I am so excited about it! I hope you are, too. <br /></div>
I love you all! I am looking forward to the next few weeks, and I am working on being better every day!<br /></div>
Love,<br />Sister Loradona MayDebra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-42712682735765481432014-09-16T06:32:00.001-07:002014-09-16T06:32:47.633-07:00Best Week Ever<div>
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Hey family! Guess who had the best week ever? This
sister! (Imagine me, pointing to myself, with a big grin. Got that
image? Okay. Hold on to it.)<br /></div>
This past week was crazy busy
but so good! We rode our bikes in the rain the first part of the week.
I'm just glad that it was still a warm rain. Things have started to cool
down, so who knows if we'll have warm rain in the future. It might
start to be cold... Ugh. Speaking of which, we had an actual snow scare
this week, which made me nervous, because I sent my winter coat and
boots home <i>months </i>ago. Hopefully that wasn't a mistake... No snow arrived, however, for which we were grateful. Whew!<br /></div>
Then <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_936210271" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Wednesday</span></span>,
a member drove us and Whitney, our investigator, to the Trail Center
for a tour and lunch. It was so neat. It was a cool experience to help
Whitney see that she was about to become a part of a church with a
history of faith and people who chose to be pioneers. It was also
different to be there <i>not</i> as a tour guide. I haven't been to the
Trail Center for a tour since I left, over a year ago, so I felt like I
was supposed to be giving the tour, but not at the same time. It was
weird, but we had a good experience.<br /></div>
<span class="aBn" data-term="goog_936210272" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">On Friday</span></span>,
our zone was able to go to the temple! I really do appreciate it now so
much more because I don't have the luxury to go except when President
Weston says. It was a great chance to feel peace and calm, and to spend
that time with other missionaries in the zone and with President and
Sister Weston. They really are our mission parents, and they have so
much love for us. I can feel it!<br /><br /></div>
<div>
Then <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_936210273" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Saturday</span></span>,
we had Whitney's baptism! We were told it would take 2-2.5 hours to
fill the font, so we were there really early, and then... it only took
an hour. And then half of it leaked out because the drain wasn't fully
plugged. Ugh. But we caught it well before it was a problem, and the
font was full of warm water by the time we started the service.
(Whitney's daughter was baptized last year, and her water was cold,
apparently, so Whitney requested warm water! When she arrived at the
church to get changed, she asked if she could feel the water. We said
sure. She leaned down to test the water temperature and said, "Ah! That
feels about right!" So we did a good job!) <br /></div>
<div>
Her 9 year
old daughter said the opening prayer, which was the sweetest thing, and
then Sis. Spilker, the member who took us to the trail center, spoke.
Then Sis. McCauley, Whitney's daughter, and I all sang "A Child's
Prayer." I'm telling you, that song can make hardened criminals cry, so
it is no surprise that everyone was sniffling at least a little bit. And
then Whitney got baptized! The Spirit was really strong, and Whitney
was crying the whole time. It was so beautiful. While Whitney changed,
Sis. McCauley and I bore testimony (During which Whitney's daughter
jumped up and said, "I want to bear my testimony!" How do you say no? Of
course you don't. You say yes!) and asked everyone to consider their
relationship with Christ, while a sister from the ward played the harp.
As our Ward Mission Leader said, "There's a reason everyone always
pictures angels playing harps in heaven!" We had another talk, and
welcomes, and then refreshments, and it was lovely. We had a number of
people from the ward come, and it was just awesome. <br /><br />To put the cap on an awesome week, Whitney was then confirmed <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_936210274" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Sunday</span></span>. How can you have a better week than that? I don't think you can!<br /></div>
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Now the hard work of finding and teaching continues. Hooray!<br /></div>
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I love you all, and I hope you all have great weeks!<br /></div>
Love,<br />Sister Loradona May<br />
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Debra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-2220304736918029102014-09-16T06:29:00.000-07:002014-09-16T06:29:00.346-07:00An Amazing Week Coming...<div>
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<div>
Hey! Last week was... Well, it was. That's
about all I really have to say. I tried to ignore that I had a cold and
was sick, but then we went to a member's house and she said, "You look
terrible!" Thanks, Tina. She then proceeded to load us up with cold
medicine and sent us home. I slept for a whole day. And now I'm better.
Sleep is the cure! Who knew? Plus a lot of cold meds. <br /></div>
But
this week? This week is cool. A member is taking us and our
investigator Whitney to the Trail Center in Omaha on Wednesday, which is
going to be awesome. The Trail Center can be such a spiritual place,
and we are excited for Whitney to be a part of that this week. On
Thursday we have zone training and our exchange for the transfer, and
then on Friday... On Friday we get to go to the temple! Hooray! It is
about time. I have spent my whole mission far, far away from the temple,
but now I get to go. Then, on Saturday...<br /></div>
Saturday is a
Special Day, but not because it's the day we get ready for Sunday. It's
special because that is the day Whitney is getting baptized! Whoohoo! We
are so excited for her! Our District Leader interviewed her yesterday,
and she passed with no trouble. It was awesome. She was nervous about
the interview, though, even though we had already reviewed the questions
with her. She asked on Sunday morning if we could meet before church to
review them again, and she basically practiced answering them. It was
great! So of course by the time the interview came, she was more than
ready. We even gave her a copy of the questions to take with her in the
interview, just so she could read them along with Elder Handy asking
them. It made her more at ease, and besides, it's not like the questions
are top secret or anything. They're in Preach My Gospel, which is
online. It was a simple thing to make her more comfortable, though. <br /></div>
We
are so excited. We've spent the weekend putting together the baptism,
and Whitney's daughter (she's 9) is going to sing at the baptism. It's
going to be adorable and cute! So many ward members are involved--we've
tried to involve as many different families as possible to help widen
the support net. It's really going to be great, and I am just so happy
to be a part of this for her. <br /></div>
Basically, I love you all, I love missionary work, Nebraska is pretty awesome, and I love doing what I do!<br /></div>
Keep being awesome!</div>
Love,<br />Sister Loradona MayDebra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-16864452911567676812014-09-01T11:17:00.000-07:002014-09-01T11:17:51.134-07:00Week 2 in Lincoln!<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
Well, after I left the library last week, we
went to Memorial Stadium, home of the Huskers! People here get fanatical
about the Huskers; it's a little scary. They say that the stadium, on
game days, becomes the state's 3rd largest city. I think it's the
state's largest religion. We don't do work on game days--we weekly plan
and try to plan lessons or service around the game. If you knock doors,
people either aren't home, or they aren't interested--and pretty crabby
that you've decided to choose that particular time to talk to them. The
first game of the season is Saturday, so if you all could pray for us
not to get caught in the craziness, that would be great! :) I actually
don't think it will be too bad, but who knows? I was in Kearney last
year for Husker Season--not really close enough to Lincoln to know.
Anyway, Attached is a photo of me and the other sisters (Me, S.
Papavero, S. McCauley, S. Lambert) on the field! Yay!<br />
</div>
On Tuesday was our zone conference, which was so good! I love
being with other missionaries and being able to learn from them and feel
the Spirit. It is cool to do that. I was also able to see missionaries I
haven't seen in ages. A lot of us are now in the Lincoln area, and I am
glad to be here with them. <br />
</div>
This week, S. McCauley got sick. She was out for about 2 days,
which meant I did a lot of waiting and sitting. And watching of
Conference DVDs! Mom sent me some of the last conference a few weeks
back, and they came in handy! I have also watched a set that someone
gave us from 2007, which was kind of cool. Both President Hinckley and
President Faust were still alive then, so it was kind of neat to hear
their voices and listen to their words. <br />
</div>
In other news, S. McCauley and I invited another investigator
to be baptized this week, and she accepted! It's just exciting to be
seeing how we can help others feel the Spirit and realize that there is a
way they can feel the Spirit more continually. In fact, that lesson was
so spiritually amazing. It was probably one of the most spirit-filled
lessons I've ever participated in, and it wasn't because of me. It was
because of the member who came to the lesson with us. She's a convert,
and she bore such a sweet, powerful testimony of how she came to be a
member and how she knew families were forever that it made it easy for
us to teach and invite our investigator to be baptized. So, accompany
the missionaries when you can, because your voice and your testimony
might be just the one they need. Just join them! I promise it's pretty
cool. <br />
</div>
Anyway, I love you all and I probably need to go, but I love you all a ton and I can't wait to hear from you more this week!<br /></div>
Love,<br />Sister Loradona May<br />
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Debra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-21305438438026864952014-09-01T11:13:00.001-07:002014-09-01T11:13:24.930-07:00Lincoln!<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
So, things are going well. Sister McCauley and I
get along really well--too well, sometimes. But we have an investigator
preparing for baptism on <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_412549285" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">Sept. 13</span></span>,
so we are really excited. She is pretty cool. Her daughter is already a
member, and she just says she needs to learn a lot before she's really
ready. We had an awesome lesson with her this last week, and she just
keeps getting more prepared. In other news, someone I taught back in
Sioux City I learned has agreed to be baptized, so that's awesome, too! <br />
</div>
We only have had to ride our bikes a little bit since members
have been good about giving us rides or we've had the car. But this week
we will have the car a little less. Yesterday we were out riding bikes,
and it was so humid, and I was so sweaty (I am painting a beautiful
picture, aren't I?), but Sister McCauley and I had prayed for a miracle:
We needed one more lesson to be what the mission calls a "star
companionship." We thought it would be cool to be stars our first week
together. I mean, how awesome, right? Anyway, so there we are, biking,
hot, sweaty, tired, and looking totally... amazing (I probably looked
like a supermodel, so just picture that). But we stopped at the home of
someone whom the Elders used to teach (they haven't been in the area
since May, so it has been a while). And a miracle occurred: He was home!
So was his wife! And we were able to teach about the Book of Mormon and
why he should read it. (Hint: Moroni 10:3-5 and Alma 5: 45-46 are the
reasons why.) He paused, and then said that we were right and he was
going to actually try to read this time! Triple miracle, folks: He was
home, we could teach him, and he said he'd read! Now that's cool stuff.<br />
</div>
I love Lincoln. I have NO idea where I am going, what I am doing or anything like that, but hey! It's good! <br /></div>
How about some photos? I feel like photos might make up for the fact that this email is short. <br />
</div>
It includes: Hna Pocock, who came out with me and goes home at
the end of this transfer, Me, Hna. Thompson who came out the transfer
after me but goes home with me, and Sister Larson, who was my companion
in Sioux City. We are lovely!</div>
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<div>
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<br />I love you all and can't wait to hear from you all soon!<br /></div>
Love,<br />Sister Loradona MayDebra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-16165745056316979562014-08-14T09:54:00.000-07:002014-08-14T09:54:48.729-07:00The City Named for a President<div>
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Just to blow everyone's mind a little
bit... I am no longer in Sioux City, IA (or Dakota Dunes, SD, for that
matter). Transfers came <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_929868778" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Thursday</span></span>. My day started with exercise, and then a phone call from President Weston at <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_929868779" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">6:40 am</span></span>,
during which he thanked me for my service as a sister training leader,
and let me know my new assignment was in the Holmes Lake area in
Lincoln, NE! I was surprised, but not. I thought I might be going
somewhere, but I still was sad to be leaving. <br />
</div>
It's cool, though, because now, of the major regions of the
mission, the only one I haven't been in is Omaha--isn't that ironic?
Don'tcha think? (HA!) Of all the areas NOT to serve in, I haven't served
in the area the mission is <i>named</i> for. I guess I can maybe say I did, because I was at the Trail Center for a short time, but we'll see. <br />
</div>
My new companion's name is Sister McCauley, and she is from
South Weber, UT--my first authentic Utahan companion! We are also in a
car share with another set of sisters, which means about half of the
time, we have no car. This means (drumroll please) that I am now a
sister who rides a bike! This also means that the first order of
business in Lincoln was to buy a bicycle helmet. Fortunately, a member already bought
bicycles for the sisters here to use, so at least I don't have to spend
$400+ to buy a bicycle in what is likely to be my last area in the
mission. Any advice from those of you who rode a bike on their missions?
(Ahem, DAD?) My behind might be a little bit sore already. It's cool.
Don't worry about it. I'll get over it. :) <br />
</div>
We had a Stake activity my first <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_929868780" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">Saturday</span></span>
here, which was cool because I got to meet about a thousand million
people, although I remember 5 of them. Also cool? In Lincoln, I have 3
former companions serving: Sister Youngberg (MTC companion), Sister
Gulledge (I trained her in Kearney YSA), and Sister Gomez (We were
together in Sioux City). So I feel like I know a lot of people already.
Also, my District Leader is an Elder I served with in North Platte. Life
is funny that way! Is this just the way it goes the longer you are out?
You just know everyone or have served with everyone? I have no idea. <br />
</div>
The ward seems good. In a fun twist, the family of a YSA I
worked with in Kearney is in the area I am in now, which is cool. I hope
I get to run into him and his girlfriend, who last I heard, was
learning from the missionaries (I got to give her a Book of Mormon in
Kearney). Anyway, I'll keep you updated on that one. <br />
</div>
I don't always know why I get transferred, or what my purpose
in a given area is, but I hope to figure it out and just be able to do
the Lord's work for me here. I love you all, and I can't wait to hear
from you!<br />
</div>
Love,<br />Sister Loradona MayDebra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-29603104553284191582014-08-04T20:35:00.001-07:002014-08-04T20:35:25.609-07:00Mormons don't have Lent...... but we do have consecration.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We went to Omaha
this week for Mission Leadership Training, and President Weston talked
about being consecrated. He said, "Sacrifice is what we give up.
Obedience is what we do. And Consecration is who we are." He then asked
us to be more consecrated and to choose three things to sacrifice for
the remainder of our missions. I have thought of 2 things, and I am
working on the third. I think I am giving up *gulp* ice cream and naps.
Sigh. I LOVE ice cream, and P-Day naps are the BEST. But we have been
promised blessings for it. Does anyone else want to join me in giving up
something for the remainder of my mission? Whatever it is, you only
have to give it up until <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1940570126" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">October 29</span></span>,
so you can have it back then. We'll have the strength of numbers, and
the strength of consecration! It will be cool. Let me know if you want
to join me. Also, let's all have an ice cream together afterwards. And
we'll follow that up with a long nap!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It's a good think I got to have ice cream at Blue
Bunny in Le Mars last week. Sob! It's fine. (You know that when you
throw a fit about something, you might be an addict... ooooooh!) It was a
good exchange, though. Even more important than the lessons we taught
was the conversations we had. It was really good, you know? Sometimes,
working with other sisters IS as fun as it sounds. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Also? We got to go to Omaha AGAIN this week! One of Sister Larson's investigators from Papillion was baptized <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1940570127" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Saturday</span></span>,
and he asked for her to be there. We had some folks drive us down, and
it was cool. It took three times for him to finally be baptized in the
proper way, and it really made me think. We take baptism so seriously
that it must be done <i>precisely</i> as Christ has asked us to do it.
Also, baptism symbolizes a lot, not the least of which is the
relinquishing of our will to God. I noticed when the baptizee was stiff
and resistant to being lowered into the water, he was not completely
baptized. When he was compliant and yielding, it was complete. It made
me think about how our hearts must be when we make a covenant with the
Lord. If we are rigid and resistant to change and to bending to God's
will, it doesn't work well. When we fully give ourselves to our
Heavenly Father and stop resisting His will, then we become completely
His. I think that goes well with what President Weston taught us about
consecration. Giving things up is all about not resisting the will of
God. It is all about realizing that you don't have to hold on to every
little thing, because God will give you all. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I can't wait to hear from you all if you want to
join me in giving something up or not! I love you bunches! More than...
naps and ice cream!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Love,</div>
<div>
Sister Loradona May</div>
Debra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-78451838065852186852014-07-28T09:50:00.001-07:002014-07-28T09:50:57.526-07:00Positivity, Dancing, and Eating!So, this past week we had interviews with President Weston. You know
it's a good interview when you feel better going out than coming in. And
that's exactly how I felt. He told me stress was not a Christlike
attribute, and to not be stressed :) He also told me to eliminate
negativity and replace it with positivity: "The two can't occupy the
same space, Sister!" He also gave me sage dating counsel: "If he's
negative, ditch him, Sister!" Sure thing, President! It was pretty
funny. But it has helped. Eliminate the negative and replace it with
positive. It has really helped me rethink how I look at my work with the
Sisters, members, and investigators. Sister Larson and I keep saying to
one another, "Okay, quick: what are 5 positive things about _____?" And
then we have to do it. It has helped.<br />
<div>
</div>
<div>
Plus, I think other stressful situations are beginning to
resolve, so that is good. We went to the 148th annual Winnebago Pow-Wow
in Winnebago, NE, which, yes, is in our area. Sister Littlegeorge took
us, and she knew <i>everyone</i>! She would introduce us to family and
friends, and there were several people who had questions about us. One
man heard us talking about being missionaries, and said, "Are you on a
mission trip here on the reservation?" We explained it was part of our
area, but that we were living in the Sioux City area and covered a bunch
of towns in Iowa, South Dakota, and Nebraska. He thought it was cool
because he had just returned from a "mission trip" in Sierra Leone
(spell check doesn't like that--am I off?) and he thought it was neat we
would do that here. We were able also to meet members from other
reservations in Arizona, which was neat. We were able to eat Indian Fry
Bread, and I wanted to try what was advertised as a "Rez Burger," or a
hamburger where the bun was replaced with fry bread! I wish! Maybe next
time, because there is another Pow-Wow in our area in a couple of weeks
where a bunch of people from the Ward (active and less active) should
be. We also were able to experience the dancing and drumming, which was
neat. It was a good experience to see more of the local culture so we
can understand the people here better. One of the sisters told us that
it is important for the native people here to see us take an interest in
their culture and dances, so I hope that can strengthen the
relationship between the Omaha and Winnebago people and the church
members. Maybe we can get more of the church members to join us for the
next one, so they can mingle more. It's tough to get the native and
non-native members to get together, partially because of culture, partly
because of economics, partly because of distance. There just needs to
be a way we can all be more unified in the gospel, you know? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We continue to work, we continue to study, and we
continue to do our best! This week includes an exchange in Le Mars, IA,
the ice cream capital of the world! So, you know, I'm about to be very
happy! It also includes a trip to Omaha, NE, so I'm also about to be
very tired from driving. But also uplifted by trainings from President
Weston. Whichever! I love you all. Have a good week, and remember:
Positivity and Negativity can't occupy the same space! So kick one out
and let the other one in!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Love,</div>
<div>
Sister Loradona May</div>
Debra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-15993927828605031702014-07-22T20:46:00.000-07:002014-07-22T20:46:01.784-07:00It was the best of times...<div dir="ltr">
<div>
...it was the worst of times. This week? Has been a tough one. Let's
just say that I have probably cried more with Sister Larson than with
any other companion, and it has nothing to do with Sister Larson (here's
my testimony of Sister Larson: She is one of the most obedient,
diligent missionaries I know, and it helps me to be obedient and
diligent. Plus she's funny). </div>
<div>
There's what's called the Adjusting to Missionary Life
booklet, and in SEVERAL different places, it says something to the
effect of, "If your tasks become overwhelming, break the tasks up and
tell yourself, 'All I have to do right now is_____'" We like to joke
about it and say things like, "All I have to do right now is... sit in a
corner and cry." or "All I have to do is... lock the car door and cry."
It helps with us to make it funnier than it really is and helps us to
put things in perspective. And sometimes, we do actually cry. Like this
week. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Let's talk about the Best of Times! We went to the temple <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_367609221" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Saturday</span></span>
with Penny (This is the woman that takes the wonderful pictures)and it was the best thing ever! It was amazing. After the crazy storm that is our lives
this week, we were able to go to the temple with someone who has become a
friend, and to see her experience the joy and spirit in the temple was
amazing. And then to be able to just experience the peace ourselves was
really important. It felt so good to be in the temple after being unable
to attend for over a year. </div>
<div>
It's what I needed. It's amazing that Heavenly Father knows what
we need.The timing was perfect, and you KNOW
who's perfect. (Hint: not me!)</div>
Basically, the temple was lovely, and I don't want to take it for granted again.
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I have to go, but I love you all! I can't wait to hear from you in letters over the coming weeks!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Love,</div>
<div>
Sister Loradona May</div>
</div>
Debra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-21577337402451487572014-07-14T11:45:00.000-07:002014-07-14T11:45:58.283-07:00Candy Land and World Cup<div dir="ltr">
<div>
Hello! I forgot to share one story last week: We
were working at the Gospel Mission, serving in their soup kitchen, and
one of the patrons asked, "Are you married?" My response: No... I'm a
missionary! "But that doesn't mean you can't get married!" Yeah, but not
until after my mission (unspoken: and probably not to you!). "That's a
waste. You're pretty!" Thank you? Here's your food! The life of a Sister
Missionary...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This week we learned that one of our investigators <em>definitely</em>
won't be getting baptized any time soon. That was sad. We've seen him
start to change, but those changes aren't enough at the moment to get
him into the waters of baptism. It's okay, though. We're working on it!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In other news, I got to play Candy Land this week!
Let me tell you how that came about: We were with a member, and we
decided to pop on by a family whose 10 year-old daughter is not yet
baptized. We went in and started to talk about Gospel topics when the
daughter stops us and says, "Will you play a game with me?" Um, okay,
kid. So she grabs Candy Land, sets it up, and we start playing! Good
thing we can easily connect Candy Land to the Gospel: Even when you get
stuck, or you have to move backward, you still have repentance and the
chance to start again and move forward. There's always a new card to
draw and a new way to get going! It might be the simplest game ever, but
Candy Land gave us a fun opportunity to teach about repentance and the
Atonement. Score 1 for us!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We had an awesome dinner with a part member family
this week, where the husband is a total soccer fan, so we had a fun talk
about the World Cup! Made my day! It also helped that we had a really
good discussion on feeling the Spirit and prayer, too. Soccer
discussion? Check. Spiritual discussion? Check! Awesomeness? Check! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Speaking of World Cup, last night as we were
arriving to our meal appointment, the game was underway, right? Their
teenage son was watching the game in the den, so I stood outside the
door just to ask him the score. 0-0, he replies, right? So I say, "Go
Germany!" And <em>just then, Germany scores!</em> Y'all, I <em>totally</em> helped Germany win the World Cup. I'm pretty sure I did that. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Also? It appears we will get to go to the temple
this week with a member we've been working with to help her go to the
temple for her own endowment. There's been some discussion about which
missionaries and how many get to go, because our mission president has
put a limit on the number who can attend, but right now I think it's us?
I guess we'll know for sure <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_680335286" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Saturday</span></span>!
Anyway, if we do get to attend, it will be the first time I've been to
the temple in over a year. If you live close to a temple, GO! I've
really missed it since I haven't been able to go. It's so far, and the
mission has rules that you have to serve within a certain distance in
order to go on zone temple trips. I haven't served near enough to the
temple since my first transfer. Take advantage of being close to a
temple and enjoy it!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I love you all, and I can't wait to hear from you in the coming week! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Love,</div>
<div>
Sister Loradona May</div>
</div>
Debra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-80838663372478144252014-07-07T09:56:00.001-07:002014-07-07T09:56:10.563-07:00The 4th...<div>
So... It was the 4th of July and we had no appointments. No dinner
appointment, no appointment for the evening, nothing. Ugh. Here's my
commitment to you: if you have missionaries in your ward, make sure they
have a place to be, even for mundane holidays, okay? Even for random
stuff like Flag Day. Just help them out to not have to stress or feel
sad that no one loves them enough to ask them for dinner on a holiday. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It's okay, though. We went to a member's house and
ate a hot dog, but we didn't stay long because there were other
missionaries already there, and it simply isn't kosher to have multiple
missionaries at a members house for our mission (the hot dog wasn't
kosher either, but hey, it was a holiday!). </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We were able to catch one of our investigators at
home, though, and we had a good lesson that evening, which was cool.
Plus, we saw it as a blessing of obedience in continuing to work, even
though it was tempting to just hang out with members or try to watch
fireworks. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We went home and, because home is South Dakota, we
had all sorts of fireworks in the neighborhood. Sadly, because it gets
dark so late, we didn't get to see many of them. Can I just say that 4th
of July is the least fun holiday as a missionary? All the things you
would like to do (blow stuff up, stay up late, hang out with people) are
against mission rules, so you just end up going inside and feeling
lame. The most fun holiday is probably Easter: People are actually in
the mood to hear about Christ, plus there's lots of candy around! AND
all of the fun happens during daylight hours--bonus! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This is kind of a boring week--we went to Norfolk
for exchanges this week, and we went to Omaha for a meeting, which was
good. It helped me learn I was super prideful, so, hooray? Let's just
say I am repenting and trying to be a good, humble missionary. Maybe you
need to be more humble, too? Just get humble before you are compelled
to be humble, and I bet you'll have a better time. :) </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I have to go, but I love you all! Have a lovely week, and I will write soon!</div>
<div>
Love,</div>
<div>
Sister Loradona May</div>
Debra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-29683455878843295412014-07-02T19:48:00.001-07:002014-07-02T19:48:32.799-07:00In Which You Will Learn that Potatoes are of the Devil...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OZkam8VF--g/U7TET316y9I/AAAAAAAAA0s/RJxD7DYThMU/s1600/LoradonaSassy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OZkam8VF--g/U7TET316y9I/AAAAAAAAA0s/RJxD7DYThMU/s1600/LoradonaSassy.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
No tornadoes this week, though that might change... Speaking of change,
transfers were last week, and... nothing happened! Ha! Did I get you?
Sister Larson and I are still together and in Sioux City. It's a good
place to be. This week has been a little bit weird, and full of cool
things, like lots of members going out with us and helping us do our
work, and also some really fun things.<br />
<div>
</div>
<div>
For example, we are working with a 10 year-old girl, and
we decided to continue doing Activity Days with her through the summer,
just so she gets into the habit of doing something fun and church
related every <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1265468365" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">Wednesday</span></span>
night. Her dad won't let her be baptized right now, but we are keeping
on with our efforts with her. This activity was awesome. The Primary
wanted to help, and before we knew it, what was going to be an activity
with the girl and her mom included all the girls her age from the ward
and two other moms! It was perfect. It helped her to have a chance to
make friends with the other girls and to also have a spiritual
experience. We were so blessed to have that opportunity, and it was
because of members that it was able to happen. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We had another experience with a member going with
us to a lesson this week. She was able to really be very frank with them
because she was their friend. It was a lot easier to ask them to do
things (like attend church) because it didn't come from us--it came from
a friend who loved them. I think that is something I have learned is
that members are the glue that hold this together and make it work.
Missionaries can only go so far. Without the members inviting, answering
questions, and being their friends, the people we teach will never
progress. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
One last fun story for today, and then I've got to
go: We went to dinner with Penny (the mom) and Journy (the daughter) Our
lesson included teaching about feasting upon the words of Christ.
Journy (who is 7, by the way), said she had a story to tell us. Her
story went like this:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Imagine the words of Christ are a food you like,
like eggs. They are really good. But the stories of Satan are like...
potatoes! You can eat all the eggs you want, but don't even think about
touching the potatoes!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So my loved ones, remember the wise words of a seven year-old: Don't even think about touching the potatoes! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I love you and I will write more to you soon!</div>
<div>
Love</div>
<div>
Sister Loradona May</div>
Debra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-19507283909587259132014-06-24T14:54:00.000-07:002014-06-24T14:54:35.721-07:00Of Tornadoes and FloodsThis week has been... eventful? That hardly seems like the right word,
but it's the only one I've got right now. It started with tornadoes on
Monday, perhaps you heard of them? There were two in the Nebraska towns
of Pilger and Wakefield, which devastated Pilger. I heard one person say
that 80% of Pilger was gone, and the other 20% wasn't in good shape. <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1469489861" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">Wednesday</span></span> was kind of awful, with two of our investigators dropping us. Ouch. It might not be a literal drop, but it hurt, nonetheless. <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1469489862" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">On Thursday</span></span>
there was the potential for floods. The community we live in, Dakota
Dunes, is right at the confluence of the Big Sioux and Missouri Rivers,
and we've had so much rain that the waters were rising pretty rapidly.
The Big Sioux River looked pretty scary, and there were huge dump trucks
filled with dirt going through our neighborhood to the river to build
levees. When we saw the levees, Sister Larson and I thought of Alma
50:1--<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">"</span>Moroni did not
stop making preparations for war... for he caused that his armies should
commence in digging up heaps of earth roundabout all the cities." Only,
instead of preparations for war, it was preparations for flooding.
Sister Larson and I prepared for flooding by moving all of our
belongings out of the basement where we lived. Then we went to a nearby
neighborhood to fill sandbags. It was hot, humid, and (ultimately)
unnecessary. The levees held and the damage that could have happened
didn't. But everyone prepared for the worst outcome, and we all were
pleasantly surprised when the worst did not happen.<br />
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1469489863" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">On Saturday</span></span>,
missionaries and members headed down to the Pilger area to help with
cleaning up tornado debris. We didn't end up in Pilger but in Wakefield.
So much of the attention has been on Pilger, apparently, that Wakefield
has been somewhat neglected. So we went there to help a farmer clean up
his fields. As we traveled we saw some of the devastation: some homes
completely stripped to foundations, a car that looked like it had been
hit by a semi, and one home that was partially gone, but half the house
remained. It was like a can opener had opened up the house and peeled
the front walls away. The farm we went to had most of their buildings
intact, but the farm across the way had been obliterated, and all of the
house, outbuildings, and belongings had been distributed across his
fields like confetti. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
At one point, I stood on a hill in the middle of his
bean fields, and I could clearly see the brown path the tornado had
taken for miles in each direction. It was crazy to imagine. We spent
several hours following behind pickup trucks in his corn and bean fields
and putting all of the things we found in them: shredded 2x4s, a baby
quilt, ribbons from the county fair, the twisted remnants of a ceiling
fan motor, a broken doll's foot, the fender of a bicycle, a knitting
needle, Christmas ornaments and tinsel, broken cupboard drawer fronts,
twisted sheets of corrugated metal from silos, glass, pottery
shards--everything you find in your home, except this stuff had been put
into a blender and then spread across acres and acres of land. It was
sobering. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
From where I stood on one hill, I could see the
other farmhouse, or what was left of it, which wasn't much. We worked
alongside other members, nonmembers, and missionaries, and it was
definitely sad. I've never seen a tornado, but I have now seen the
devastation that one causes. It was humbling to think of what had
happened, and how much more needed to be done. The people there probably
won't be done cleaning up for months. I think sometime we imagine that
things like this are finished as soon as the news stops mentioning it,
but in reality they continue for months and years. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So, pray for the people who are affected by things
like this every day, and then--if you can--get to work and help them
out. I'm grateful to have this time as a missionary to be able to say,
"There is actually nothing in my life today more important than helping
out here." It is a luxury I appreciate, and I hope that after my mission
I can continue to help people when I need to and when they need it. I
am glad that I learned the value of work and service from my parents.
who always served and encouraged us to serve. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I love you all! Stay safe, and keep writing! I have
been terrible about writing back, but as you can see, this week has been
a little crazy. Don't fault me too much! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Love,</div>
<div>
Sister Loradona May</div>
Debra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-84970017521172284192014-06-16T09:54:00.001-07:002014-06-16T09:54:27.603-07:00Miracles can happen...This was our week of miracles! It was pretty cool. We first of all had a dinner cancel right off the bat <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_754740762" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Monday</span></span>.
Sad way to start the week... until an investigator invited us to dinner
that night! It was really cool. We had a super good lesson with them,
and we hope to continue helping them move towards baptism. We shall see!
We also had dinners with less active members and other investigators
this week, which was really cool.<br />
<div>
</div>
<div>
Our biggest miracle came <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_754740763" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Friday</span></span>.
We had exchanges with the Spanish Sisters, and I went with Hermana
Thompson to our area. We had fasted and prayed that morning for two
goals: a baptismal set for us, and a new investigator for them. We went
out to drop in on people and go tracting, and as we did so, we found a
new Spanish investigator for them! We continued to work and were able to
meet and teach other people, but at the end of the evening, in fact our
last chance to set someone for baptism, we were driving by an apartment
complex where an investigator lives, and he was outside. So we stopped
and talked with him. Then we asked if we could read from the Book of
Mormon with him, and he ran inside to grab his book. While he was
inside, Hna. Thompson and I figured out which chapter we wanted to read
with him: Mosiah 18. We read it with him, and then we asked him if that
was how he felt, if he felt like he wanted to bear others' burdens and
support them and keep the commandments. He said he did. Then Hna.
Thompson asked if he would follow the example of Jesus Christ and be
baptized by the priesthood authority. He said he'd been thinking about
it already, and he thought his birthday would be a nice day to do
something like that. When's his birthday we ask? <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_754740764" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">July 26</span></span>.
So you all should pray for him and that he can follow through on his
desire to be baptized. He has a lot to change, but with prayer and the
Atonement, nothing's impossible. He's a nice guy, and he has sincere
desires. He's been to church 4 times, but he hasn't stayed for all three
hours yet. He's shy and I think Priesthood scares him a little. :) But
he has a fellowshipper--someone he wants to baptize him!--and we
reminded him yesterday that his friend could sit by him and could help
him through Elders' Quorum. He looked surprised, like he'd forgotten
that it was a possibility. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We also had monster rains <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_754740765" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Saturday</span></span>
night. We went back to teach him and his girlfriend, and he had great
questions and took notes. When we went to drive home, the roads were
full of rain, but we didn't realize how full until we had already driven
a block and drove into a deep puddle. We were already in middle of it
and decided just to go forward and made it! Whew! It was pretty intense.
And we were just two blocks from the Missouri River, so all the water
was heading that way. It was really dark and rainy, but we made it home,
safe and sound! So: a big thanks for all of your prayers. I have to go,
but I love you and hope you all have a great week with your own
miracles!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Love,</div>
<div>
Sister Loradona May</div>
Debra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-41023620895598655892014-06-09T20:28:00.003-07:002014-06-10T08:16:54.795-07:00Tornados and gumdrops!<span style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">We had some
really cool experiences this week, including almost getting hit by
lightning! Hooray? We were on foot (yep, saving car miles by walking
miles with our feet (not piggies!)), and the sky turned dark, it first
started to sprinkle, then to rain, then to <i>pour</i>. We had begun
heading towards our car at the insistence of a potential investigator
whose door we had knocked on, and when we were still 10+ blocks away, a
bolt of lightning hit about 2 blocks away. The crack of thunder was
deafening, and Sister Larson and I took off running! The nearest
member's house was about 3 blocks away, so we headed there and... she
wasn't home. So we sat on her porch until she arrived. In the meantime,
we saw a guy running across the street in nothing but boxer shorts and
tennis shoes. We laughed really hard at that one. When the member came
home, her 7 year old daughter told us that looking at the man with no
shirt on was a sin. "That's a sin!" she exclaimed. "If you stared,
that's a sin!" Sister Larson and I laughed, and then ate their gumdrops.
So, you know, life is okay! </span><br />
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">We
also had some tornado warnings, and a member even showed us a picture
of one of the tornadoes on her phone. It wasn't big, but it was still a
tornado! Crazy, eh? And that night we had a dinner in the area where the
tornadoes were, but it was sunny and cheery as ever. Who knows. Life
here is weird. But it is also awesome! Our new ward mission leader is
the former stake president, and he is so excited about missionary
work--I love it! He set up an appointment and went with us to meet a
new referral, who are now our new investigators! Without him, though, it
would never have happened. It was because of him and his relationship
with the husband of the couple that allowed us to set a return
appointment. Otherwise, it would never have happened. The wife is very
interested, but the husband is too stuck on his smoking, coffee, and
beer habits. He even mentioned--several times--about liking beer as a
reason he could never join, and offered us some (jokingly, of course), I
think as a way to try and deter us. But because of our ward mission
leader who was there, they (but especially he) were willing to let us
back. The husband reminds me a <i>lot</i> of Grandpa Nylund. So basically, he is my favorite person ever. :) </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">We
also had the chance to go down to Omaha for Mission leadership Council,
which was excellent as usual. We are trying to do our best, and the
council and counsel (see what I did there?) help me to feel a little
better about the work I am doing, even when there isn't a ton of
success. Because sometimes it isn't about you. In fact, it usually isn't
(But wait, I thought it was all about me...?). It's about doing what
Heavenly Father needs you to do. So I am working on doing what he needs
me to do. Will you also work on doing what he needs you to do? Pray
about it and find out what he wants, and then go do it! You'll have an
amazing experience, I promise!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I love you! Keep writing letters! I still have a while to go, so don't forget about me!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Love,</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Sister Loradona May</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">PS:
the picture I have attached is of my district before Sister Gomez was
transferred. Back row (for anyone who cares), L-R: E. Harrison (one Zone
Leader), E. Blanck (in our ward), E. Paddock, E. French (Also in our
ward), E. Shipley (our district leader), and E. Pulver (our other zone
leader). Front row, L-R: S. Gomez, Me, Hna. Pocock (who came out with
me), and Hna. Thompson (who will go home with me). Enjoy! Love you all!</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C6aSvIRhLFU/U5Z78Kh9emI/AAAAAAAAAz4/n9G_5DCbgDM/s1600/district.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C6aSvIRhLFU/U5Z78Kh9emI/AAAAAAAAAz4/n9G_5DCbgDM/s1600/district.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></span></div>
</div>
Debra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-64667817264431439332014-06-04T09:00:00.001-07:002014-06-04T09:00:16.823-07:00Miles...<div dir="ltr">
<div>
So. We may or may not be down to our last 90ish
miles for the week, so Sister Larson and I may or may not be walking a
lot. You determine the truth. But, it has led to some interesting
experiences. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Experience the First: We were walking to help someone
out when we walk by a couple on the street. The guy asks, "Why are you
all dressed up?" Because we're missionaries! "You have a book, don't you
guys?" Yep, we sure do! Would you like one? "Yeah!" We have an
appointment with the girl tomorrow (I think it was tomorrow, so let's
hope I wrote it down right), so walking isn't all bad...</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
... but it isn't all good either. Experience the
Second: We were out walking yesterday after church (we were able to get a
ride to church, and a ride to dinner in the evening, but in between
church and dinner? Walking.), and the wind starts to blow. The clouds
get dark. The rain begins to fall. The lightning begins to strike, and
we begin to decide our current plan is maybe less good than we thought.
So we walked to the nearest member's house, where they let us in, give
us towels, and let us sit on their couch and watch Legacy until the
person giving us a ride arrives. So even the "bad" wasn't all bad,
either. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
We went on exchanges, and there is one Sister serving
in Columbus, NE where we went who is a native Spanish speaker. She has
been serving in Spanish areas until now, and now she is serving as the
Spanish half of a Spanish/English companionship. She let me know she had
never contacted a referral in English before and didn't know how. So we
talked about how to do it and then... we went and did it! She was
nervous (and I might have been, too; hey, it wasn't my area!), but we
did it, and got his phone number and had a good interchange, so it was
fun. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
I feel like other things happened, but I can't remember what. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
In
other news, I just emailed back and forth with Cliff in
Afghanistan--how cool is that? I'll answer: really cool! Anyway, I love
you all and I hope you all have missionary experiences this week! I know
I will!</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Love,</div>
<div>
Sister Loradona May</div>
</div>
Debra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-67393209986055001082014-05-27T20:49:00.001-07:002014-05-27T20:49:26.300-07:00Memorial Day a day late!Hello family!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Spring has truly arrived, complete with
humidity, thunderstorms, and deafening claps of thunder that shake you
awake in the middle of the night. Mazel tov! So far, I'm surviving, and I
LOVE the thunderstorms. They are so beautiful, and unlike any we see in
Oregon. They are just so intense! I don't think I will ever get tired
of the Midwest thunderstorms. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sister Larson is from Coeur d'Alene, ID--did I
mention that already? So now I know where to visit when we drive up to
visit Jeanette and Kyler! She is a lot of fun, and she is getting to
know the people here. Fun fact: she was in the MTC with me, too! How
awesome is that? 2 companions in a row, both from my group. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We had Zone Conference this week in Council Bluffs,
IA, which meant a long drive and a good day of being spiritually
uplifted. We got to stay with the Fairview Sisters, one of which was
Sister Stiles, whom I trained! How fun is that? I'll answer: really fun!
The zone conference was all about families and The Family: Proclamation
to the World. Basically: remember that the gospel blesses families and
that God is our loving Heavenly Father, and that is what we need to
focus on. The family is super important, and I am particularly glad to
have such a good family. I love you all so much! Our mission president
(weirdly) asked us to start thinking about things we wanted to do/have
in our future families, which was strange to think about while on a
mission. That's okay, because it basically made me think about things
that I wanted to continue in my family in the future from our family.
Things like Family Home Evening, lots of music of every kind, learning
how to cook, road trips, and poking around in the dirt. Thanks, Mom and
Dad, for helping us to be a strong family. Thanks for being good
examples, and for keeping us strong in the gospel. So much depends on
individual agency, and you helped us to use our agency better so we
could do the right things and make good choices. And a super thanks for
being supportive on my mission. I really couldn't have come on a mission
without your help. I knew it was what I was supposed to do, and you
helped me recognize that. So thanks. And a huge thanks to Jeanette and
Cliff, too, who gently bugged and urged me on in the whole process.
Being a missionary can be hard, and emotionally trying at times, but I
don't regret--ever--coming on a mission. I have absolute confidence that
I am doing <i>exactly</i> what Heavenly Father wants me to do. I have
no idea what life looks like after my mission, but while I am here, I
have that calm reassurance that I am doing the right thing, that I am
touching people's lives, and that I am learning and teaching as He
expects me to. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This week we have 2 exchanges, which should be fun. Hooray! Wish us luck!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I Love you all! Keep writing to me! I love letters!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Love,</div>
<div>
Sister Loradona May</div>
Debra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-11928811562803021452014-05-23T11:09:00.001-07:002014-05-23T11:09:57.898-07:00Another one bites the dust...<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
So, it was transfers this week. In fact,
transfer news came out on my birthday. Worst birthday ever! Not really,
but Sister Gomez was transferred, so that bummed me out a little bit.
When the phone rang, I wanted to answer and say, "President, this better
just be a call to wish me happy birthday!" But I didn't. I knew that if
there was a call, it was for her to be transferred. Sigh. So I still
haven't had a companion longer than 2 transfers.<br />
</div>
Sister Gomez and Sister Fuller traveled to Omaha together so
Sister Fuller's companion, Sister Smith, and I were companions for the
day. We did a variety of service, taught lessons, and then went to a
graduation party for 2 of the young men of the ward. We helped them set
up and manned the lemonade stand so that no one ran out of delicious
lemonade. They really go all out for high school graduation parties here
in the Midwest. It is a huuuuuge deal and people really through good
parties with good food. I'm wishing for some of it right now...<br />
</div>
Oh, and I made the cake Mom sent in my birthday package and
took it to our district meeting. The Elders were so funny about it--I
started to cut it, and one of the Elders said, "You can't cut and serve
your own birthday cake!" So he cut and served. I was about to pass the
piece they handed me to someone else, but an Elder said, "No! You have
to have the first piece!" Fun times. But, like I knew, the Elders had it
just about all eaten up by the time we had to go, so: Success!<br />
</div>
We have another set of sisters for us to work with, so that
means at least one exchange a week this transfer. This means we have an
exchange tomorrow. Hooray! I hope things go well. <br /></div>
Um... I
wish I had more to share, but I feel a little bit out of things to say.
Will you forgive me? I love you all and hope Memorial Day is amazing for
you! We will probably email next week on Tuesday instead of Monday,
though. <br />
</div>
Thank you for everything! I love you all!<br /></div>
Love,<br />Sister Loradona MayDebra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-38673796188898037542014-05-12T20:10:00.001-07:002014-05-12T20:10:40.841-07:00Wonder of Wonders, Miracle of Miracles!<div dir="ltr">
<div>
<i>Just FYI for the rest of you: we were able to Google Hangout with Loradona, her brother Clifford at Fort Dix in New Jersey and her sister Jeanette in Calgary Canada. So when she says that it was "Awesome to see you" you know that she really did see us.</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
So, I know we just talked yesterday (I love you all
and it was awesome to see you!), but I still have things I didn't share,
mostly because I forgot. Eh. So here goes:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We
went on exchanges in Le Mars, IA, Ice Cream Capital of the World!
(That's their motto.) Yes, I did get to have some ice cream, but it was
cooler than that. There has been a big push in the mission to have at
least one investigator set for baptism, and as we thought about the
result we wanted to have from our exchange, Sister Gomez and I knew we
wanted to leave them with someone set for baptism. So we called them and
discussed it with them, and they decided this was a good goal. We
fasted with them the morning before our exchange, and then the morning
of the exchange we studied Mosiah 18 with them. Then we exchanged!
Sister Wilson (one of the Le Mars Sisters) and I went and did service,
and asked people if they would follow the example of Jesus Christ and be
baptized, and... no one said yes. But that's okay! President Weston has
said that if we get three "no"s a day, we will have someone set for
baptism. But when we met up with Sister Gomez and Sister Bertrand
(Sister Wilson's companion), they had asked someone and they had
accepted a baptismal date! It was really neat, because they went to see a
family where one of them is not a member, and they've been going
through some trials lately. They shared a gospel message with them, and
people really felt the Spirit, so when Sister Bertrand asked if he would
be baptized, he agreed. It was just a really neat experience where we
were able to fast, pray, and then act in faith to see a miracle. That
area is a tough area: it is 20-30ish miles outside of Sioux City, which
is where the church building is, and it has only had missionaries for
about 11 months, so they have been building the area from zero
investigators to 10ish, and they have worked so hard for this. It made
for a really cool experience for us and for them to see prayers answered
in such a direct way. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We have had some good days in the past week, and it
has been great to be out working. We have transfers this week (in fact,
we find out about transfer news <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1404895019" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Thursday</span></span>.
Happy Birthday!), but we hope that things go well. We have a lot of
really busy days, and we don't really have time to get transferred, so
we hope neither of us does get transferred. We just don't have time to
drive to Omaha! :) </div>
<div>
Anyway, I love you all to teeny tiny bits, and I will write again
next week! In the meantime, prayerfully determine a blessing you would
like, then fast and pray for it, and then act in faith to make it
happen. And watch how Heavenly Father blesses you!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Love,</div>
<div>
Sister Loradona May</div>
</div>
Debra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3071446869400807674.post-11153143495387596442014-05-06T16:23:00.001-07:002014-05-06T16:26:51.973-07:00It's May! It's Me!<div dir="ltr">
<div>
Hello! Welcome, welcome Monday morning! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This
week was so lovely. We had some cool experiences this week, and we are
working hard to teach the people of Sioux City. We had interviews with
our mission president, which is always good. As my interview with him
concluded, he asked if he could pray for us then paused, and said, "I'm
just going to see you again in two days!" And he did! We had a meeting
in Omaha <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1810247337" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Friday</span></span>,
and whom should I get the wonderful chance to see, but Sister Harris,
my trainer! I was so excited to see her. We haven't seen each other
since we were companions, a year ago! She leaves at the end of this
transfer (which happens to be my birthday), so I was really excited to
see her, even if it was for just a short while. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We learned a lot at our meeting in Omaha, and then
we rushed back to the Sioux City area, because a family we have been
teaching invited us to their daughter's choir concert. We were able to
get there just a few minutes before it started, and we felt sure that,
in a large auditorium, it would be impossible to see the family we'd
come to support, and that there would be few open seats. We entered the
auditorium and saw a few seats open near the back, and who was sitting
right behind them? The family we wanted to see! It may seem like such a
small thing, to be able to see them and sit by them, but to us it was
just another demonstration of how Heavenly Father loves each of his
children, and when we are obedient, he blesses us with miracles, even
something as simple as being able to show support for families we teach.
I love this family, too! They are a sweet family, and I just know how
much Heavenly Father loves them. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We also had the chance <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1810247338" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Saturday</span></span> and <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1810247339" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">Sunday</span></span>
to attend Stake Conference. They were calling a new stake president
(the current one had been serving for 9 1/2 years, and had been in the
presidency for 5ish years before that, and a bishop before that, and...
Whew! He needs a change, I am sure!), and we had Elder S. Gifford
Nielsen come to the conference to help select and call the new
president. (He spoke in the October General Conference, and his talk was
"Hastening the Lord's Game Plan.") In the adult session, he asked for
any new converts to stand. The sister whom we have been working with,
Jami, stood, blushing, and allowed him to question her. He asked her how
she found the church (a friend asked her to learn more), and how she
came to be a member (it took several months) and to share her testimony.
The cool thing was that we had taught her a lesson barely 2 hours
before the meeting, and in that lesson, we finished the Book of Mormon
with her. When she shared her testimony, she was able to say she had
read the whole thing and finished it that day. It helped her to be more
confident in her testimony and it was really neat to hear her talk about
it. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1810247340" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">On Sunday</span></span>,
of course, they called the new president. Sister Gomez and I had taken
an informal poll of members: who do you think will be called? There were
many guesses (some of them right!), but they didn't all agree. It
reminded me that when Man is in charge, we can disagree, and dispute,
but when God is in charge, we can feel confident in the person called
and know it is Heavenly Father's choice. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I love you all.</div>
<div>
Love,</div>
<div>
Sister Loradona May</div>
</div>
Debra/Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08281673774915307133noreply@blogger.com0