MTC Week 5 - June 21, 2015

I GOT MY TRAVEL PLANS!!!!!! I mean.  What ever.  No big deal right?  uh NOOOO. HUGE DEAL.  hahaha. You could say Im nervous.  but excited.  So I sing a song called nervous but excited!!!! hahaha joke.  no but really.  this is real.  Crazy loco!!

Dont worry about mending a shirt, I got it like a pro.

On to this week! I took some language assesments and got some really good feedback! I guess you could just call me fluent or something! hahaha joke. But I think it is pretty safe to say now that I know WAY more spanish than I ever did french and as much as I choke while saying this...... I like spanish better! haha.  I am still trying to work on loosening my tongue while I speak, but everyone I talk to is impressed by my accent and quick speaking. so things are looking good.  But, that will all change in one week when we get there and I just cry because I am lost in a crazy drunken partying country in the middle of the world cup.  there is no place like home right?

Hermana Tu'akalau is leaving on monday.  Not sure what really happened there but she is leaving before the rest of us! We are way sad and may cry about it all the time.  Anyways.  One morning she woke up with an awful back ache.  She got surgery there about a year ago, and was worried that the infection she once had removed was coming back and would have to be sent home Quite the serious situation.  So we went to the doctor and the doctor said "No more monkeys jumping on the bed!" I'm serious.  That is what he said! We were just as surprised!  HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA joke.  Man. I crack myself up.  I am such the comedian.  No, but the doc gave her some drugs and made her stay in, so we stayed in with her! It is a miracle how fast she is healing.  She received some blessings from our zone leaders, and they said she had work to do for the next 18 months and would not have to be sent home.  WHAT POWER! She is healing incredibly fast and we are just so grateful and amazed that all is well because she is leaving in a few days gosh dang it!

This week at the devotional, M Russell Ballard came.  Missionary powerhouse bow chicka wow wow. He talked about Joseph F Smith and saying "True blue dies in the wool through and through." You know that one? He said this is the greatest time for missionary work and that God knew it was coming.  He knew he needed his strongest for the final push.  That is us! Can you believe it? It is so easy to get down on ourselves for messing up, but we are the elect to God.  definitely a booster! ANYWAYS! He just talked about how we need to be bold, and straight forward in never denying the truth.  Defend it! True to the faith- Read the lyrics, they are good! It was encouraging and so inspiring! We also had Sheri Dew come this week and speak about grace.  It was so neat the insights she had about this insanely deep doctrine that is hard to comprehend, yet she made it so simple.  Grace is the power from god.  She even said to substitue the word grace for power when reading scriptures.  Give it a try.  All because of the love that God and Jesus have for each of us.  Crazy to think about but so cool! Simplicity is the way to go. That is the way we are taught to teach, and that is the way to invite the spirit into our lives.  By doing the simple things.  Pray, read, fast, keep covenants and serve.  It will make all the difference in your life, because it has the difference in mine.

Sorry this is out of order but I want to talk a bit about father's day.  What an awful day to be alive! We watch music and the spoken word every sunday and to watch clips of fathers playing with their daughters brought tears to my eyes hard core- torture to a room full of young girls with no daddy to hug or anyone of the male sex for that matter.  I'm even tearing up right now too!!! It didn't help that they were singing "hush abye baby!" Dad I think the world of you, and I look up to you in so many ways.  You are my support! I just wish I didn't have to say goodbye and that you could be here by my side all along the way! But I understand that is not possible.  This is the chance for me to grow closer to my father in heaven and strengthen that relationship for the eternities!!! But please know I love you! This week we were talking about being snappy to our parents.  I instantly remembered that one time when you wanted to go on a bike ride with your daughters, but me being my stubborn self kept us home.  You said that you weren't going unless we all went, so then I said- So then no one is going. You became upset and sat in your room in silence for an hour.  I AM SO SORRY!!! I still think about it often and hope that you will forgive me.  I love you so much.  I just don't think you know how much.  Hope you had a great day last week :)

This week we had our best lesson yet with our investigator! We taught him while Hna T was at in feild orientation.  We taught super simply the fall of adam and eve and the chance we all have to make good choices.  we read through a few verses with him and made him pause every phrase literally and explain to us what it meant!  so many obvious questions but hey it worked!! He has been so tough to us and non accepting in the past.  We finally just boldly showed him that we must either choose good or bad in this life.  Eternal life with god, or endless torment.  He discovered for himself that he wants to follow god, and will take the necessary steps to do so.  we asked him to be babptized and were expecting him to say no, like every other time, in practices or real lessons.  So because of this, we had a back up plan of how to discern his doubts or worries and then to ask him again.  But there was no need for the back up plan.  He said yess!!!! We were so shocked, that we kind of panicked and told him a bunch of useless facts in that moment, but hey it was great.  As we were leaving the lesson, he said to stop and sit down becuase he wanted to talk to us personally. (remember this is my teacher pretending to be our investigator) He said that it was an OUTSTANDING lesson and that he was so moved by the spirit we invited and the inspired questions we asked.  he told us he came into the lesson determined to decline our persistent invitaions of baptism.  Yet, he felt something so strong that he couldn't deny the invitation anymore.  He was so proud and it was the biggest relief in the world.  I was smiling so big that tears were in my eyes! We are worked so hard here, it was finally worth it to see our preparations pay off and to experience the good of serving a mission.  It is worth it and I love it.

One last story, We were playing a game of volleyball - which we do EVERY day because it is so stinking fun and because I am a boss!- and an elder full on hugged me.  HE HUGGED ME! chi car-a-lee. So not allowed.  hhahaha. He was a fresh new elder and was running after the same ball as me and we collided, but his arms were open as he was running and staring up at the falling ball, so my body just went right into his arms.  We both stood there stunned at what was happening, and then while he was still wrapped around me, probably still in shock, he said. I. am. so. so. so. sorry.  hahaha Everyone was dying and we were in the embrace for what felt like forever.  Gotta love those elders hahahaha.

I love you all and 

oh ya, and in case you forgot..... IM GOING TO ARGENITNA!!!!!

Have a great week.  keep the letters coming.  I love you to death and look forward to writing again. yo se que la iglesia es verdadera!- dont expect a perfect convo in spanish when I call from the airport hahah. Love you my family!

con amor, 

Hermana Woolley

Our day teacher Brother Hammond - he knows and served with Amber Stratton

Package from our siblings

Last day at the Temple with Sister T

 Hermana Martinez - night instructor

 Stuck inside because she was not feeling well

 Tessa Herman and me just out of the rain

MTC Week 4 - June 14, 2014

TENGO GOZO EN MI ALMA HOY!!

Ok, I'm so sorry! I may not be able to send pictures to you this week because these computers are stupid, but we will see.  If not, you'll get over it.  

keep me updated on the spurs and heat, looks like Dan wins another bet against Sam either way.  Also, there is a red head from austrailia that is the SPITTING image of blake griffin, so I guess you could say Im obsessed. Things between us are getting pretty serious...... hahahahahahahaha joke.

This week has been a great one once again!!! I forgot to bring my journal and letters, so I will just write to you the most important things that are on the top of my mind! 

Please let Grandpa L. know that I am praying for him multiple times a day and that I want to be updated on his surgery.  Also, Hope girls camp was a blast.  It is still a bit strange to me that life is continuing on outside of here.  But I hope the summer sun is treating you well with tans, boating, swimming, and so much more.  It is giving me sweaty garments.  hahahahaha  

Thank the meyers and averys and woolleys for me please! packages are the sweetest and my district is in debt to you forever! We are too spoiled with treats and sugary goodness.  Also, TELL ALEC TO WRITE ME! THAT NUMSKULL!

ok. About the speakers at devotionals, we have had Elder Nelson and his wife! So good, she talked about how it takes desperation in everyone to show true faith.  What a message.  If I have more time maybe I will write a few more notes on that.  We also have had a social media guy come, the administrator at the MTC, Elder Schwitzer of the 70,  and Elder Quentin Cook and his wife.  AND rumor has it that next week will be a big wig again because it is scheduled to be a broadcast to the other MTCs.  About the choir, I can't be apart of it.  Bro Eggett came and asked me to be a part of it, but when he found out that I was in West, it is impossible to be there for the frequent practices... pretty bummed, but it is not what is most important. I love singing with him.  We have sung Hope of Israel, Where can I turn for peace, and Joseph's First prayer.  All powerful songs, and powerful messages.  I love that I am able to be testifying all hours of the day in multiple ways.

"The privledge to work is a gift.  THe power to work is a blessing, teh love of work is success."- David O. McKay.

I love it here, and I know I say that a lot, but it is because those are the feelings of my heart.  This week I had some pretty cool experiences.  

First off, we are teaching a nonmember in real life in TRC.  Talk about intimidating.  But, it really is such a great opportunity to get a real feel for the work.  In natural Hna Woolley style, I said say some pretty stupid things in lessons.  In the very first lesson with M*a, apparently she was talking about how she never has, and never will have the desire to be baptized.  But, I had no idea what she was saying, so I was just trying to do what our teacher challenged.  TO INVITE ALL TO BE BAPTIZED IN EVERY LESSON.  so, right after she explains her feelings to my companion about baptism, I assumed all was going well, so I say, "Seguirá el ejemplo de Jesucristo al ser bautizado para alguin qué posea la autoridad sacerdocio de Dios? " My companion looked at me with terror like I had done something so terrible and awful.  hahahaha.  You guessed it, M*a quickly rejected the invitation.  Like SisterSteward said (who we ate dinner with, I see her here all the time)-- You are going to look stupid at some point.  You might as well make it here rather than in the field.  hahaha 

Another funny story of my weird sayings in lessons.  We were practicing inviting people to come to church.  Our teacher was our investigator and in the lesson she said she couldnt come to church because she does her laundry on sundays.  suddenly, there I was, again with no filter-- I say "Well can we wash your clothes for you?" Hna Romeril started dying in laughter, and our teacher was trying hard not to laugh.  she didn't know if she heard me right.  Well she did.  Later she told me that it was a funny question to ask, and may have been a bit intruding, but she liked my sincerity.  It taught her a lot about how important church is to me, and to see that I would be willing to sacrifice my time so that she could experience it too.  So take that!!!! Ready to convert the world.  I might just step on some privacy toes, but hey, I get what I want when I want.

Now to the good lessons.  We have been teaching Ana Maria since May 23rd.  She has accepted to be baptized on the 20th of June, and we are stoked! (she is already a member but we still love her to death) As we were teaching, She mentioned how she loved being with us.  I told her that we were so happy because we are able to testify each day about Christ.  I then was prompted to ask her to bear her testimony so she could experience the happiness that comes in bearing testimony! She did, and it was so heartfelt and real.  We were all crying.  I then took the opportunity to tell her that I know the church is true. Yo lo que. I have never cried so hard or felt the spirit so strong when I said those simple words that I have said a million times.  I even am tearing up writing about it.  This gospel brings me so much joy and I am loving it here :) That is why I'm here.  Because it is true.  If it wasn't I would already have come home because I miss you too much.  Yesterday was the best day in the mission so far, but also the day with the most homesickness.  Don't do anything too fun without me, and don't grow up.  It was an emotional day with many tears and a testimony meeting at the end that wrapped it all up.  Crying is the best therapy and I think that I said the most sincere prayer I have ever said last night.  

I am doing good things and coming closer to Christ everyday.  I love you and want you to share your testimony with someone this week and report back! I am excited about your missionary set up contact.  We may be far away, but we can always be reunited through the word of God.

Happy Father's Day to all!!!!! I love you so much.  Dad, Elder Giliam says he loves you too.  Also Mom, Elder Evans said he has always wanted to be apart of our family so he will fill out an adoption form.

LOVE YOU! con mucho mucho muhco amor... I love you soooooooooooooooo (writing like young aunt sara) much!!!

Hermana Woolley

PS. one last miracle.  Thursday night I had some nasty blisters.  I went to bed and prayed that they would heal quickly so that I could fully focus on the work.  I put on some bandaids, covered them in my ski socks, and went to bed, in the morning as I pulled of my bloody and pussed bandaids, my skin was perfect underneath.  miracle.  God is living today and he cares about his children.  Never forget it.  This tiny simple miracle shows that this work is important and needs to be done.  I'm humbled to say the least.  NEVER FORGET TO PRAY! and go to the temple, and scriptures and everything good because I want to be in the Celestial kingdom together one day!!! Kisses :)

MTC Week 3 - June 7, 2014

Ok.  wow.  This has been THEE fastest week of the mission so far.  But, also the one where I missed you most.  But esta bien.  I still love it here with all my heart and my companionis! We really are progressing together as a companionship.  Cameron & Katelyn L. both wrote me before the mission and said "Be obedient, not every missionary is." I think I finally understand, and am trying my hardest to always do what it right.  Dad, I am glad I don't have a slow peruvian comp yet, or I would be over. hahahaha

Thanks for the packages!!! We went to Brigham's landing to use the Jamba card.  It bought enough for me and my comps! They say thanks! If you cant read the sign in the picture :)  It was crazy being in the real world and having every littel girl want to hug the sister missionaries! so sweet! It did make me sad eating a pastromi burger and corn dog at burger supreme though.  It reminded me of you at home. but it is still the greatest! I love getting packages, mom you are just too clever! We have a creamery right next to our laundry so we can go there any day we want and get everything we need.  For me, this last week I got RITZ!!! I love them and I still continue to eat them by the sleeve.  And good job on the pringles.  The fattier, saltier, and less healthy the food, the more I'll like it.  Healthy crap is for rich people who hate themselves.  But... some package suggestions- caramel brownies, scotheroos, and what ever else your heart desires.  I like both of the bags you sent and will probably use them! What is the update and getting packages back to you? I need to send some stuff home, and maybe send home a shirt to see if you can fix it! Just dearelder me the postmart answer!

On to my week! Hna Romeril is doing better, but we are still visiting the doctor with her regularly.  But finally the president got smart and had us do exchanges so we didn't miss so much class.

Ok, Spanish is getting better too.  Not perfect of course, but coming.  I hope my moments of stupidity can lighten your day, because it sure lifted my mood! It was the epitime of the Best Two Years! Remember that part when he messes up the word while asking for sliced bread and said circumsized instead? Or something about a virgin spirit visiting jospeh smith or something or "and I know that Joseph Smith was a pamphlet?" Ya remember those.  Well, They could have written in my slip for the film as well.  So, there we were in a lesson with Samuel, our new investigator who sleeps through our lessons and texts all the time.  So Finally, I had the prompting to ask him why he was meeting with us.  I simply said, with confidence (not sure if that made the moment better or worse), Que es son expiacions por esta leccion? pardon my espanol.  haha.  I ASKED MY INVESTIGATOR WHAT HIS ATONEMENTS WERE FOR THE LESSON!!!!! I meant to say- what are your expectations for this lesson. he was so confused, and I had no idea that I had said the wrong word.  He kept his cool until after the lesson, when we all broke out it laughter with tears too. Not sure if the tears were because of embarrassment or of laughter.  Probs a bit of both.  Its fine.  I'll get over it.  It was quite the moment, and one I will always remember and laugh at when I look back.  It may not be the story of tyler's being in the shower during a fire drill, but I think it has the potential of being 2nd or 3rd on the list behind E. Davis being whinnie the pooh out the window.  We shall see.  

Also some big news of the week! We started TRC! I can't believe we are old enough to do that! It seems like only the super advanced missionaries who have been here for weeks do that everyday--- ok wait thats me Haha!! It was so dreadful. Definitely the worst lesson we have had yet.  The pregnant lady we taught responded with one word answers and was not very nice.  I blame it on the prenancy.  I'm sure she has a sweet spirit hahahahahaha. and she has MASTERED the pity laugh.  Let it live on.

Another big deal was that we were able to be new missionary hosts! It was so fun to see these kids coming in with terror and shock, and just hug them and carry their bags.  I remember that day too well, and I love being able to give comfort where I can.  We have the opportunity to do it again this next week!

Im glad Jace said something to you!! I was so happy to see her even though I have never talked to her before.  Any connection between us feels like a 50 ft thick steel wire.  So so happy.  I also saw a girl from our ward in our session today, but she was out of the Celestial room too fast for me to talk to her and have her transfer hugs to you all.  Im not sure what her name is, but she is the lady that looks similar to annie bray and is not married I dont think... if that helps at all.  Well you can just hug her anyways because she was just one row in front of me- the closest you will get.  I also think I saw Tawni from a far, but she was busy, so I didn't chase her down.  

I feel like there is not much to say this week, so I will just tell you one or two more funny stories (not tons of spiritual enlightenment is coming to mind right now)! While we were at home with sick sis Romeril, a spider was in her shoe.  It was the size of a quarter.  I know I follow Tammy in the exaggerating genes, but this is no lie.  Im a missionary and I dont lie.  So what are three terrified girls to do? Attack it with a broom! We looked at it crawl onto our shower curtain from a distance, and after about 40 mins- no joke- of staring at it, getting closer, watch it flinch an inch, screaming and bolting away, I finally became the woman of the house and killed that little sucker with no mercy.  1/2 a bottle of disinfectant spray shot just the right distance to exterminate the mennis.  Then Hna, Tu'akulau, after is was dead, slammed the mop against its body until all the legs and joints were little dillweed specks in our shower.  hahahaha.  She is a big girl, but not when it comes to aranas.  

Ok last one, I can't believe that everyone is moving on with life! Chandler wedding, Rory has gained 17 lbs, new dog, and NBA champs nearly dying.  Yet here I am having the time of my life. Half of the fun is strictly because of Hna Tu'akulau.  Tyler- having someone who speaks with a different accent can lighten any mood! Remember Elder twin guy from england who loved hot pockets? ya well- Hermana Tu'akulau adores me and decided that she needed to take me under her wings. She is helping me grow up and become mature haha.  So what did she do to assist me? She body slammed me to the floor, and used a painful weapon.  TWEEZERS!! apparently she has been dying to pluck and shape my eyebrows.  I was offended that she didn't like the little toofs I had that resembled my dad. hahahahahaha. how unfortunate.  ya, our eyebrows are not our grandest quality...... anyways, now she powders them for me and makes me "look like a lady!" hahahahaha she kills me.

I may be the most hated in my district because of the amount of letters I get on the daily, but Hey, Im not complaining! Just sorry for them that they were not born to the best family in town.  Welcome to the family!  

Sorry this letter was not the most uplifting, eh.  I sure hope you had a good laugh though!!

Hasta luego!

Hermana Woolley

Use the "expiacion" daily, good luck on the pool and reading, and go to the temple!! 

Also, if you want me to respond to something, just do one separate letter of questions.  It will be easier that way to get you the info you need!

I love you fossil folks of mine and all the many that my life one to cherish! Have a great week, and I will keep on being myself here at the Westside.

MTC Week 2 - May 31, 2014

Its so exciting that you are just on the other side of town drooling over each of my pictures! I feel a little torn that we can't chat, but you will enjoy this letter hopefully more than the same old... "como esta? muy bien!" convo that we would have in our chats.

 Questions to answer:

Hna M*, Hna R*, and Elder R*r are going to Cordoba.

Everyone else is going to Bahia Blanca

Except Hna T* - Lubbock TX

There are tie pins and lapels here, but we can't wear them because they are a distraction- I would love a necklace :) Im sure anything you pick would be great!!! I can get things at the book store, but there is no jewelry that I have found yet.

Choir- SO FUN!!! Eggett is a hoot.  Im so glad you were able to get in contact with him and hear that I am still alive.  haha I got my entire district and zone to join the choir! We sang Hope of Israel for Elder Nelson.  Very powerful and exciting. We practice 2x a week for one hour each

I sent you a pic of my schedule- hope you can read it

The bubbles are the gyms - 4 square in one, baskets and weights in another, and volley ball courts in the last. we eat in a trailer!!!

ok on to the week! Thank you so much for the letters and TWO PACKAGES ( yes I get dearelders whether you send it to provo, or provo west)!!!!! I was in desparate need of the tissue box, but my allergies are under control now.  I haven't had time to try on the shorts but thank you so much! Also, about the bags! Send them to me! My bag strap already broke, but I could take it to get mended.

also- I just email from my classroom- there are laptops in here for us to do our TALL studies. so super convenient.

About Sunday! What an awesome experience! We were able to watch the character of Christ by bednar- LOOK IT UP!!! it honestly changed my life and I want to do all that I can to improve myself each day.  I even shed a tear or so! haha those apostles are just able to speak with so much power and inspiration.  This mission is not about me.  This mission is not about my wants, desires or demands.  It is about others coming unto christ and letting them feel of His love in their lives.  It is serving as christ would - completely outward. So I tried this in my week.  I did service where I could.  One night is was putting Hna T's mattress on the floor while she was brushing her teeth.  It is insane how much joy can come from such a little task.  The joy can only be greater when it will be to completely change the lives of those in Cordoba, and have mine change in return as I witness their change.  This is the Lord's work and it is good.  I will give it my all to think and act as the savior would.

Our investigators- Anna Maria.  She is from Mexico City and doesn't speak english which is tough, but really helpful as well.  We have come to love her so much! Her family are member, but she hates scriptures, prayer, and church.  Anways, we have been teaching her everyday, even over skype.  It is easy to become frustrated when a lesson does not go exactly how we had hoped, but the spirit is able to work miracles.  One lesson in particular, we were just sitting there in an awkard silence.  We have been teaching about how much God loves her, and wants to hear from her.  She had prayed for us before, which was super exciting! But she still struggled with faith.  So as we sat there in silence that felt like eternity, I noticed that my heart was pounding.  Like the same amount as when I knew that I was to serve a mission.  It was so strong.  Suddenly my fear of having serious conversations faded.  I simple blurted out.  "la fe es poder." Faith is power.  She didn't say anything and I kind of panicked worrying if I had said something wrong.  Suddenly I realized she was crying.  We all began to cry.  Even though she is just our mock investigator, the words we said, and didn't say, still impacted her real life.  She then told us about how she hada just broken off her engagement, and our lesson and the spirit we brought with her truly did help her in her real life.  Talk about blessed!!!! We were so excited and humbled to be able to see the change in her life at such a crucial moment to rememember God, trust him and simple have faith.  By doing so, all that is bad can be made good once more. She accepted to be baptized on june 20th.  To say that we were beaming and excited is an understatement.  Well-- surprise surprise, she is now our night teacher.  We will continue to give her the lessons as Anna Maria, but she teaches us as herself, Hna Martinez.  She is the cutest little fireball who makes us run in class and loves food.  She served her mission in Guadalajara.  I love her so much it is unreal. Because she only speaks Spanish, it is forcing us to focus in harder, and we can't get away with english like we can when Hno Hammond teaches.  It is a difficult blessing, but one that I think we are all secretly grateful for.

We also just started teaching our first gold tag investigators named Jose, and Hely.  (Have Tyler explain to you what that is)  They speak really fast and are intimidating. In our first lesson (1 full hour crazy) we just felt like they were attacking us with questions that are impossible to answer or have no value to the gospel.  It was frustrating because we didn't really know how to handle the situation, but hopefully, our next lesson will be better.  You live, you learn, you progress, you inspire.  

Another story of the week that stood out from the constant studies and eating.  One day in class during our  quiet studies-- Elder * FARTED!!! - not just once, but 2x.  It was hilarious.. We all couldn't keep in our laughter.  As inappropriate as it was to laugh, because he was probably embarrased, it was a nice relief of stress.  You know when it is harder to not laugh in moments when it is inappropriate to? That is the definition of that moment.  My face was red as i was holding my breath so it wouldn't turn into laughter.  But you knowing me, you can guess what happened.  Every once in a while I would let that laughter slip and escape my mouth resulting in turned faces and stern looks-- or added laughter hahahaha.  Too funny for my bunny.  Freak a leak.  Im serious. 

Sorry this email is jumbled, you can arrange it for the blog better.  I have seen Mckenzie wells, Andy Olsen, Haley- alecs girl going to cambodia, ali hansen, and camilee bratt.

Thanks for the photo albums.  They are a life saver..  I look at them probably twice each day. 

Ok now for the news of the week. Hermana Romeril's asthma is really acting up and she forgot her inhaler at home.  SO... where does that leave us? Three little sisters sitting on the bus.  We had to go to the clinic.  Es no bueno.  She completely failed the breathing test 3x and had a fever of 101.7.  So we had to miss class and study at home while she drugged up with streiods to strengthen her lungs, and tons of other things.  She still has a fever today, and I feel so bad to see her so miserable.  But she is tough and brave.  Anyways- the pic of the coats.  Since she was sweating so much from her fever, the normal temp of our residence hall made her nauseous (dont mind my stupid spelling).  So we cranked it colder.  IT WAS FREEZING!!! so hermana Tu'akulau and I bundled up to do our studies. Of course it called for a picture.  I gladly took the opportunity to wear my coat.  So darn cute.  I have worn it 3 times now though.  walking outside at 7 in the morning can be kind of chilly.  hey Im not complaining.  Heck, it is so hot outside, maybe you should all be jealous that I am on my way to winter.

Hna Tu'akulau's is converted to the Lord, and is such an inspiration to me.  I just realized that I always talk about Hna T.  Don't get me wrong. I love Hna Romeril too!!! Her spanish is to die for and I want to pick it up as fast as she is.  We really are the best of friends in a little pod.  Hna romeil is THEE most gullible person I know in the world, and we are always laughing together.

I want you to know that I love you all so much!!! I will try to get some thank you cards and hand written letters out too!!! I know that this gospel is true.  One last thought before my time is up.  It just came to my mind the other night.  a few years back at EFY, we had a silent moment fro Joseph smith's martydom date.  I remember sitting there thinking, I can never repay him for what he has done for me.  I would so love to be able to say that I love this gospel enough to give my life for it. In that moment, I remember hearing distinctly the words, "Katelyn, don't you even worry like that.  I know that you would have done the exact same things for the gospel."  Wow.  right? and I guess it is true!! I have given my life to the Lord.  It may not be in the same manner as Joseph Smith, but I have turned my life over to God and Christ.  And it is the best feeling. I love this gospel, and I want to believe that I would die for it rather than deny my testimony.... and as much as you might hate me for saying this... I would die for this gospel and this perfect church.  I would do it because it is true and it is the Church of Christ.  What a blessing it is to know what we know.  That is why I am willing to give my life and fully consercrate myself to Him, so that others may feel this same happiness and gratitude.  I love it hear.  again- dont worry about me too much! I am surviving- but not only that, I have a smile on my face.

I love you all more than you imagine.  Just ask my zone and district-- they would say that I am constantly talking about you all.  Kisses from a far (5 miles maybe haha) It makes me nervous that you drive by, but I feel comfort having you so close..  Stay righteous.  Right on. I hope this all makes sense and feel free to edit what you need for the blog.  Love you little, love you big, love you all like little pigs. Have a great week my angels!!

Con amor,

Hermana Woolley

MTC Week 1 - May 24, 2014

IM HERE AT LA CCM!!!!!!!!!

can you believe it? I am here!  I am absoultely loving it.  We work really hard each day and have multiple hours of study.  I will try to get a picture to you of my scedule next week.  We feel a bit lost because we have no preisthood (zone leaders etc) because they all just were shipped out last week (like Elder shaner broderick!!! My branch and zone know him!!!) Another Orem connection --- Hermana Jessica Pukahi is in my residence hall and my zone.  Kristen tell jeremy all about it :) We are so excited to be together.  I am having so much fun.  We laugh ALL THE TIME!! probably too much... haha but it is an absolute blast here.

As you can see- saturdays are my preparation day.  We went to the temple this morning for the 7:20 or 7:40 session.  so STAY CLEAR!!! haha.  we then printed off our emails, and are now responding.  We also need to write a talk in spanish, do laundry, clean our residence hall, eat, and so much more.  WE ARE ALWAYS SO BUSY!! ah I love it.  It means we are learning so much and progressing ever minute of the day.  

ok on to the wonderful people!

Mis comanaras are Hermana Kelby Romeril - Hemet, Cali (the girl I connected with on fb- both going to cordoba! super cali valley girl if that makes sense) and Hermana Tui Tu'akalau (to walk allow = prounciation) - she is a tongan from NZ but has been in San Jose since 2007.  She is so tight.  She is 23 yrs old, with tattoos and a golden tooth.  I have so much respect from her.  She is teaching me a lot and we have so much fun together! I wish you could all meet her.  She is going to Lubbock TX.  I wish you could meet all the amazing people here.  It is definitely the Lord's campus, and we are learning so much so fast.  

We are constantly busy, which is so good.  One thing that really stuck out to me on the first day, was we sang "We'll bring the World His truth" with the incoming missionaries.  As the words were displayed on a screen, some of the words were different.  Instead of saying, "and we will be," the words said in bold "AND WE ARE NOW THE LORDS MISSIONARIES TO BRING THE WORLD HIS TRUTH!"   uh, holy cow.  hahaha- eh jajajaja What a calling.  D&C 31:3.  We also met some investigators the first day and tried to teach them.  No time to waste!  I was amazed by how much love I had for these people I barely know.  It must be because I am feeling HFs love for them.  I feel so honored, and privledged to be una siervo del Senor Jesucristo de la Iglesia de Jesucristo de los Santos de los Ultimos Dias. (it took us about 10 minutes to master saying that, and kept saying it faster each time, so now you can just call us fluent)

Our district has 7 people (E, Giliam (Zone Leader - ya on the second day!)- Alaska (worst gringa accent when speaking spanish haha), E Evans (Zone Leader)-  Auburn Cali, he is a purebred ginger with the greatest personality, E. Anderson,- Florida, the OPITIME and EXACT replica of Dave Meyers in our ward.  It is crazy how much they are alike.  His jokes = priceless, but the facial expressions take the cake., E. Royster(District Leader)- West Virginia- he reminds me of someone but Im not sure who so I'll get back to you on that. In addition to these 4 elders, is our trio!  Hna Morris and Pukahi are in a separate distirct with thetir own teacher because they are on intermediate spanish-but we still spend SO much time with them both!)  I LOVE THEM ALL.  We all keep mentioning how bizarre it is that we feel like we have known each other for ever.  We get along so great, and are trying our hardest to learn espanol and the language of the spirit- BUT! we have THEE greatest maestro.  Herrmano Micheal Hammond.  (he was in Amber's mish, and he says hola!)  He is so patient, kind, encouraging, and great.  

yet, we are not the greatest district.  We keep calling ourselves the lost district.  On the second day, we got on a bus to go to the cougar stadium chapel to an important meeitng.  Come to find out, we got on the wrong bus and it took us to main campus.  From there we had a personal shuttle to the chapel.  They were laughing so hard at us because apparently we are the first ones ever to do something so stupid.  From there, we got to the Cougar Chapel, to realize all of the doors were locked.  I was so nervous that we would get in so much trouble for being in the wrong place.  I just want to be exactly obedient.  Anyways, so we hopped back in the shuttle, and found that we were not supposed to leave the west campus for the meeting at all.  We were just supposed to go to the chapel here.  SO EMBARRASSING.  So we ended up being 45 minutes late to our meeting, and then felt awful as we had to leave early to go BACK to main campus for immunizations (not me- haha I was prepared, but mis companeras needed some)  It was quite the struggle and we were constantly confused about our schedule and the bus schedule.  (we now know it comes every 30 mins haha) We felt bad for wasting so much time, but it leaves lots of room for improvement.  Apparently, there were people searching for us everywhere when we were lost.  When we finally got to the right place, phone calls had to be made back to main campus to inform we were found and ok.  Not the greatest first impression, I know, we were just so innocently lost.  hahaha.  

Gym time is fun, but Hna. Morris is like Jilian MIchaels.  She pushes us so hard each time, and FOR SURE I will be in such good shape before I leave the MTC.  We felt so cool once we were able to witness what the big white domes look like on the inside.  haha.  Ok.  We live in Wyview (building 19), and walk to class in Raintree, have a bookstore, and cafeteria in big trailers (like the classroom ones in cali) and gym in domes.  Everything is so nice and new, with lots of room - except for the fact that we don't have any floor in our residence halls because of the mattress for our trio.  We have to walk A LOT!, but it is excellent practice!  

Now onto Friday, WHAT A DAY!! we had 11 hours of study.  ya. you read that right.  eleven. once.  11. such a long day.  We were so nervous because a lot of things were planned.  We had to teach our first lesson- EN ESPANOL!!!!!  ya.  so overwhelming.  We still know ZERO SPANISH!  It ended up going really well and for our companionship, it lasted over ten minutes.  Our teacher will be so proud because he said his first lesson was only 2 minutes.  We are doing great, but still have so far to go.  

On friday, we also learned how to present yourself (like in a street contacting situation or door approach), how TO PRAY! in spanish, and we also memorized Nosotros Proposito en espanol.  We read the entire missionary handbook, we sing multiple times each day from the himnos, and killing it.  

Dont worry about me.  I am having the time of my life.  Though the days are long, and tiring, we are trying our hardest to be the best we can. I a little bit feel guilty that you guys are mourning at home, and here, I am always so happy and excited.  Honestly, I am on top of the world.  

I love you all, and am so excited to hear from you! Thanks for the letters, and dearelders.  I truly is like christmas everyday as the mail is distributed.  SO BRING IT ON!!! never stop.  I love reading how everything is going, and it always brightens my day to be reminded of your love.  

con amor, 

Hermana Woolley :) I tried to get out all I wanted to say so I really hope it makes sense!! If not, you understand how I feel here.  NOTHING MAKES SENSE! The constant sound of spanish is frustrating, but Im catching on :) ps. you were right about survivor. I dont care anymore haha

MTC Dropoff