Week 2 Bell Ville - July 14, 2014

Ok there is a lot that I want to say this week, We will see if I can get it all in!!!

APRIL and JARED! Happy marriage week! I wish I could be there and experience the magic and love!  I have had your date on my calendar forever now and I can´t wait for you to make your family forever on sat! Best of luck with it all! Know I love you and look up to you in so many ways!

It was a crazy week because we didn´t do a lot of missionary work.  There were other things to do! The language is still hard, especially because the people have no mercy and just speak a million miles a minute.  Not sure how their lips are not on fire!!!!! Also, there accent is quite mumbled and sing song all under water with the nose plugged!! Impossible.  Yes, getting easier, but still challenging. As it should be!

No, O* was not baptized and didnñt come to church again this week so I am not sure if it will be happening in the future or not.  A bummer, but if he really is not dedicated, it is better to not make covenants he will later refuse.  

Also, embarrassing-- the scripture I meant last week was Moroni 8:2-3 ha. Hope you figured that out!

I am still the same me.  Zity City and all.  Kristen.  You and me both.  Thanks for your letter.  I laughed pretty hard.  I have a line of 4 right next to my ear.  People might think it is a tatt or bug bites or maybe just some curse for my imperfection.  qien sabe?

The main things this week.  A TALENT SHOW!!! This was what we were in charge of in hopes of getting more references and unity between members.  I think it worked! Anyways, after practicing our missionary number forever, multiple times each day, getting all the decorations ready, making over 100 empanadas and so much more, We were ready for the show!  It started late in the evening so we got permission for the mission president to stay out a little later than usual so that we could perform our number.  I don´t think we were expecting, or him, how late we really were out.  We didn´t get home until 12:25 am.  SOOOOO LATE!! We felt so guilty, and frustrated and tired.  But hey, our synchraizedd swimming number won the trophy!!! Everyone laughed pretty hard and I will try to send to you our practice round.  But, Look up the president´s son who recorded it.  MAybe he can send you a copy on facebook or something..... It was a crazy night and lots of fun yet strange in another country and language.  Evern the members breastfeed in public with no shield.  I was a little shocked by that, but hey.  What ever floats her boat I guess.

Next was the world cup.  Everything was good and dandy.  We had food, and messi.  We also had great company and messi.  We had a TV, and did I mention messi? haha the people are fanatics! We were crazy when we went into PKs on wed.  So excited for the final.  Yesterday, you could feel the excitement as we walked around. Everyone wore teh flag around and said hello to everyone! The game.  Yes we watched it.... with both our presidents of the district and branch.  He has a huge house and opened up a brand new 42" screen for the game! It was exciting! He is probably the richest person in Bell Ville by a long shot.  No idea what he does though! Anyway.  Way crazy.  People were screaming and blowing cannons 4 hours before the game started.  Yes, when we lost it was sad.  People on the streets weren´t happy anymore and they walked with their head down.  Kind of sad.  We wanted to tell everyone.  ITS OK WE HAVE CHRIST AND WE HAVE GOD WHO LOVES US.  But, after the game, even though we lost, it was dangerous out, so we went to the pension and studied.  Dad, I know you want me to be safe, but you didn´t have to pray that Argentina would lose to protect me!!!!!!!!! Come on.  Es un chiste.

ANOTHER note about the DOGS!!! We had a day of dogs.  They would not leave us alone.  Probably the most dangerous thing here.  We were walking home from lunch during siesta ( 12-5) and 2 strays followed us the 2 miles home causing havoc.  They would not leave us alone and fought with every dog we passed.  And since it was during siesta, we were the only ones out so no one could come to our rescue!! But, we used our scriptures as protection and jingled our keys so that the dogs couldn´t hear our pounding hearts.  We ran into some crazy pitbulls and fiesty things.  But all is well.  We escaped into our door, and the dogs scratched and whined for leaving them behind.  We thought we had escaped the worst of it.  Than later in the evening, those same two dogs FOUND US AGAIN!  like 6 hours later! We couldn´t believe it! What are the chances.  Now they followed us some more, and it was dark so we couldn´t prepare for the oncoming creatures.  We were dying with nervous laughter the whole time.  When we finally made it to the church, we darted in behind the gates and again they barked and whined, wanting to be let in.  Que feo.  We hate them.  I hope you can understand how big of a deal this was.  If not, I wrote all about it in my journal and I can explain once my 90% is done- dad- oh ya,  I write a ton, so I might run out of paper for the binder....

While teaching this week, we had a great lesson.  In that moment when we were talking about the importance of prayer, reading and church attendence, it hit me that these things are protection because they are moments when we think of christ.  Just like the sacrament.  They are moments of respect and love.  Never forget to do them!!!!! OUr investigator was talking, and I remember a distince moment when I realized that I was understanding what she was saying. And I felt the spirit.  Then I thought to myself.-"I can do this for the next 17 months"  I love it here and the food is making my fat.  Bring it on. But back to the gospel...

message to the pres

Hola President!

This week I realized the importance of the Doctrine of Christ.  These things bring us closer to Christ and give us the opportunity to always remember him and work to be more like him in this life.  This life is like a river with Christ at the head of the river.  We can get to him only by swimming up stream, against what the world says.  It takes effort, and it takes desire, but it is possible.  We have the steps layed out for us in his gospel of how we can achieve success and happiness through him.  Fe, arrepentimiento, el bautismo, El espiritu Santo, y perseverar hasta el fin.  He wants us to return to him, and he wants us to understand what we need to do (2 Nefi 31:3).  It is simple and it is clear for all to follow.  By realizing how important it is to have a relationship with him in the life, I have worked harder to say more sincere prayers and think of him with happiness and gratitude.  It has helped me realize my purpose and the desire to want to share it with others.  

There is a quote that says" If we listen with love, we won´t need to wonder what to say!" Elder Holland.  Me encanta!  With only being able to speak a little spanish, I can still be a missionary and have the faith to experience a miracle in the gift of tongues.  Love is able to be felt in all languages, and if that is all that I can offer at this moment, that it enough!

Another quote that I came across this week is this, " The temple is an ever-present reminder that God intends the family to be eternal." - Ezra Taft Benson.  This gospel makes sense, and the temple ties it all together.  I love the temple so much and it brings tears to my eyes when I think of the blessings that have been pronounced upon my head in his house, the blessings that will be mine, and the blessings that will be available to many here in Argentina with the coming temple in your backyard!  Families are eternal and families are love.  There is power in this message and I will try my best through obedience and diligence to share this message.  

I am grateful for all you and your wife do for us missionaries, and as always, wish you a great week.

Con amor, 

Hermana Woolley

It is true.  This whole gospel is true.  I love you.  I miss you. so see ya, love ya, bye!!

Yours truly, 

me- fat, zitty and all.

ps.  Had mate this week.  Just as awful as I imagined and remember .....only worse

Go Argentina!  World Cup excitment

 Making empanadas at the church

Branch Presidents son at the Talent Show

 What Bell Ville looks like

 Katelyn's zone

  Katelyn's kitchen and washing machine - she said this is much nicer than anything else she sees in her area.

Week 1 - ¡¡¡¡Vamos Argentina!!!! Week 1 - Bell Ville July 7, 2014

Shut up! I am here! HOLY COW!!  Can you believe it? ya, me neither!  After 3 long days of travel and a night in a hotel (5000 pesos per night!) I am in my first area with my trainer! We are in Bell Ville.  It is about 3 hours away from Córdoba and I love it!  My trainer is Hermana Gonzalaz from Mexico City.  Dad, you were praying for a native companion and you got one! I can be frustrating at times because I can´t speak very well with her, but every single person here says that I am the most impressive greenie they have seen.  They say my Spanish is crazy good for 6 weeks and no más.  The accent is hard to understand so every night I go to bed with a headache after trying to make sense of eveything that is going on around me!  

I feel kind of flustered writing you on a new keyboard in a new country so hopefully I can give you enough information about my life here so you can feel comfortable and excited for me and my new life here.  

I Iove everything here.  The food,  the people, the sacrament (haha their bread is better for sacrament- especially after fasting), the alfajores.  ALL! I am having the time of my life.  Don´t worry about me!  I often feel really lost and just walk behind my companion and do what she does.  She is 23 and super sweet- from what I can understand!  I buy what she buys, I sleep when she sleeps, I pray when she prays and I cross the street when she crosses!  Just her little duckling!  

The people are so sweet and are mostly nice.  Yes, I get yelled at, whistled at, and stared at ON THE DAILY.  Sometimes I feel scared, especially when my companion makes disgusted sounds to what they say.  Maybe it is a good thing I don´t understand anything and so it is hard to be offended!

In our very first lesson, when I spoke, some teenagers we were teaching literally LAUGHED.  They laughed at me.  So I didn´t open my mouth again in that lesson.  But not to fret.  Things are different now!  I am not nervous to make mistakes and most everyone we have met knows I am just learning the language and they are nice about it.  The Branch President had us over for lunch one day and I am the first missionary from the states- let alone Utah- who drinks Coke and loves it and does not think it is a sin.  They love me already!!! But the coke here is to die for and I could drink it for days.  A coke in hand and 10 baguettes and call me fat and happy. HOwever, all that we eat is not good.  One day we were given some cake thing.  gross. That brick of fruit cake was revolting.  It sucked out every ounce of saliva in my body and I wanted to dry heave. We´ll see what happens when I drink mate.  We are allowed to drink mate but only in our pensions.  Our president is SO chill and we can have lots of fun.  He is not strict with a lot of rules so all is good.  We watch disney movies together on Pdays- Today was frozen in english.  I wanted to cry because of all the memories at home while watcing it.  Especially the Summer song and Jackson.  oh mi corazon!  I miss you all more than you know and show my family pictures in every lesson.  People think we are all adorable and I agree.  I can´t stop smiling when I show others what is so close to my heart.

I´ve already been bitten by a dog.  Glad I could just get that over with right from the get go.  But it was a moment to be grateful for my baby calves.  When the stray tried to get me, it only got a hold of the extra fabric on my boot.  No harm done.  But yes, there are dogs EVERYWHERE! I have heard it is only worse in the summer when the air is warmer.  about that.  It is sooooo cold here.  Super weird.  I feel like the  time has flown and that it is time for the holidays. but no.  It is still July just on the other side of the hemisphere.  

I almost had my first baptism on Saturday!!  This deaf kid named Oscar had his interview and passed.  We set up his date, the baptist, the clothes and everthing.  Then when we called the President to let him know of the good news, he said it was a no go.  I was pretty upset-  Oscar is so ready.  But not quite yet I guess.  All the elders in our district were joking that it must mean that I was so close to being perfect!!! Casi.  

hmm, what else is important to you--- WORLD CUP!!! Uh, Im addicted.  We can watch the games so I have seen the last two.  We watched Messi score on Wed while we were in the airport.  The whole world literally stops while the games are on.  The airport was shut down until we won.  Chaos.  We watched the other game with some investigators.  We are able to be with them a long time.  President A understands how big of a deal this is, so we can stay and watch the whole game.  Also, we stay for about 2 hours for lunch with members or less actives.  We never have dinner, only lunch so it is double the time.  Anyways, after argentina won on saturday, I thought it was a war!!!!! bombs, cannons, crazy dancing, noise for 3 hours after the game even.  Honking like out of the wazoo and country pride all around.  I can´t wait for the game this week and Argentina´s independence day. Fiesta everyday!

Also, my first impressions of Argentina: 1. Its winter- in the summer (SOOOO much fog in Buenos Aires because it is on the coast.) 2. honking maniacs always.  3. if they could cage us up in walls, the walls would be plastered with Argentina Flags and cardboard cutouts of Messi EVERYWHERE. 4. They should change the color of the emergency vehicles- green is weird.  5. all dogs need to go to heaven.  NOW!

My district is great.  They are excited to have me.  4 out of the 6 of us are from Utah so they say I am from the fabrica- the factory of missionaries hahahahaha  I love it here and the spirit is so strong.  The members are working hard to do what is right and the church is true no matter where you are in the world.  The preisthood is the same and the authority is real. 

I bore my testimony in our branch of 50 yesterday.  My heart was pounding so how could I not?  I went up there and just kept praying that waht I said would make sense.  I tried to speak from the heart.  I said that even though I don´t understand all or can´t speak well, I can still feel the spirit the same.  It is the same language to me no matter where I am in the world.  That is because the spirit speaks all languages and it is because THIS CHURCH IS TRUE!  After I sat down, my companion said that what I said was in perfect spanish.  I still don´t believe her, but after what so many said to me after the meeting, my gift of tongues is working.  I am slowly getting better.  I have a crazy long way to go, but with the help of the Lord and the Spirit in this work, miracles will come.  I know it.  This gospel is true and important for all around the world.  It is necessary for me in my life, and it is necessary for those here.  God will make a way for them to receive it and learn of the truth.  

I am happy to be here.  I do have my sad moments, but there are way more great moments than sad.  I am walking a ton- we have bikes, but it is safer to walk through the city.  This is the truth and I am a servant of the Lord.  

Read Moroni 10 vs 3 I think.  My thoughts are always of you.  I love you SO SO SO freaking much! oh my gosh! (everyone here says freak and oh my gosh- yes in english!) Nos vamos! I love you! Till next week!

Con amor, 

Hermana Woolley

¡Hola President!

I am going to write this in English. I hope that is ok! 

I am loving it here in the mission! Hermana Gonzalaz is a great example to me and I can feel her love for me even though we do not always understand eachother with the language barrier. I am learning a lot and I love the people already. 

This week I learned a lot about God. I was reading through the stories of Alma, Ammon, Amulek and Omner and more. Especially in the chapters aorund 30, it talks about how without God we are nothing, but with God, we are everything. With him, all is possilbe. With him, I can learn this language. With him, I can preach his gospel. With him, I can be an instrument in his hands and help others to feel of his love and awareness. Each of us have such a piviotal part in God´s plan of hapiness and it would not be complete without one of his children. That is why we as missionaries are here. To further his work, and learn how to fully depend on Him in all things. We have reason to rejoice, for God is on our side and his plan for us is perfect. The gospel is true and it is for everyone. Though Him, I can do what may seem impossible. These missionary stories were really inspiring to me. There were times when they were disappointed or disheartened. This is normal. However, when we realize how great things are, we can have joy and we can have peace in this life. 

I have loved getting to know the people here in Bell Ville and to meet them- They are sweet and kind and a lot of them are prepared for the gospel. We are trying our hardest to get contacts and referrals to furthur the work. Everyone deserves to hear the word, and we are the ones who can bring them the truth. I am excited that this opportunity has begun and that I am able to work under your direction. I thank you for all that you have done and helping me feel instant love. I can feel a power working with you and your sweet family. Hoorah for Israel!

Hermana Woolley

With David Johnson

With the wives of the Branch Presidency at the MTC

 Blake Griffen look alike Elder.  He is from Australia.

 Flying to Argentina.

Wearing my Argentina flag necklace.

At the Buenos Aires Temple

Our hotel room the first night.

 The temple in Cordoba with Pres. Allaiud and Hermana Gonzalez

View from the Apartment (pension)

Wanda ready to be a missionary.

MTC Week 6 - June 28, 2014

We spoke with Katelyn three times yesterday.  First from the airport in Salt Lake.  She was excited and as ready as she could be.  She was with a group of 20 missionaries headed to Argentina (different missions – they are all going to Buenos Aires together and the will split up there). They rode Front Runner (mass transit) from Provo to the Airport.   She said it was quite the adventure with that many missionaries and SO much luggage getting on the train before the doors closed.   She said she was glad to be with so many missionaries because there were some pass along cards in her travel packet and it made her nervous as she isn’t ready to talk to strangers.  The entire group was sitting together on the plane so she would not need to talk to anyone quite yet.

She then called from Atlanta a few hours later.  The first thing she said was “I gave away a Book of Mormon on the plane”.   Her and her companion sat by a nice 41 year old father of four.  He asked them about their tags.  They explained they were missionaries going to Argentina and that it was a voluntary choice.   He was amazed that they would volunteer to go anywhere in the world for 18 months to two years.   He asked if he could ask more questions.  He asked if they believe in a merciful loving God (too many religions believe in an angry God according to him).  They said yes and explained it.   He asked why the people in Utah are so happy (he has noticed in his trips there).  Katelyn explained the joy of the true gospel of Jesus Christ.  He said that made absolute sense to him.   After more discussion, he took a nap.  While packing, Katelyn had seen an English Book of Mormon on a table.  She picked it up and packed it.   While he was sleeping, she took it out, wrote here testimony in it, explained how to find the church via lds.org and Mormon.org.  When he woke up, he asked more questions.  This time about families.  Katelyn and her companion explained that God loves his children and then asked how much this man loved his children.  He said “more than you can explain in words”.  They said, “that is how much God loves all of us – his children”  He said he agreed.  Then Katelyn took out the Book of Mormon and asked if she could show him some verses.  They read a few together and he said “I know and feel what that scripture says is true”.  They then told him they would like to give him the book as a gift.  He was very touched.   He said, today is my birthday.  I get to see my family and you are giving me this book.   He promised them he would read it.   Later in the airport, he came up to them again, expressed sincere gratitude and told them he would definitely read the Book of Mormon.

Katelyn was pretty excited about that.   She is ready to serve.  She has the spirit with her and a real, sincere, deep love for the Gospel and Jesus Christ.  You can sense it in her voice and demeanor as she speaks.  She is the same Katelyn we all love but she is a prepared missionary now too.

She called us one last time before boarding,  to say goodbye.  That was a bit of a hard moment for all of us but we are all excited for her.  

We have not heard from her to know if she has arrived at her mission yet.

(Her letter from Saturday is below)

Wow.  I can't believe the time here at the CCM has come to an end! I have loved every minute and last week a few in my zone were saying how they would love to just stay here the full 18 months.  As fun as that would be, we are ready to go to Argentina!! 

Business-- I bought a calling card, and sent home two packages (3 total) I am working on the weight, and will probably just have a heavy carry on.  I will call you from SLC around 8 am hopefully on monday, if not I will call during my 4 hour layover in GA.  If I forget to answer something, I'll just talk to you on the flip side!!! :)

This week has been one out of the ordinary! Crazy emotional feelings, but so spiritual! This week were THE GREATEST DEVOTIONALS IN THE HISTORY!!!!

Sunday night- Janice Kapp Perry and her sweet husband.  They randomly kissed for us and it was hilarious.  We hooped and hollared and even Pres. Nally stood up and clapped.  It was so great. I loved hearing from them about the power of music.  I already knew, but it was nice to be reminded again how simple music and doctrinal lyrics can be, yet have the power to invite the spirit so strong.  We sang a number of primary medleys and I was in tears.  I think everyone was. Then, we stayed and watched the Restoration.  That is the reason I am here.  BECAUSE IT IS TRUE! Watching Joseph struggle and his family see him go reminded me of uor goodbyes, but it is what is in the plan, and protection and comfort are always available.  After memorizing the First Vision in Spanish,  I had the opportunity to recite it in a lesson. I was so nervous, but as I opened my mouth and told that sacred moment, my teeth literally were chattering as I was holding back the tears.  The spirit has tesitified to me that Joseph saw God and Jesus multiple times, (in the grove, watching restoration, or reading about him), But this was such a powerful moment.  I love this work and I can't wait to continue to do it everyday!

Then, on to Tuesday night--- so uh, we had 6 apostles come HALF!!! and all 7 presidents of the 70! if you didn't already know, Missionary work is the number one priority! it was crazy to literally feel the authority that was present sitting on the stand! Here is this list of the 6 apostles - Elder Christofferson (spoke), Elder Bednar, Elder Anderson, Elder Nelson, Elder Ballard, Elder Oaks-- So cool! I also saw the Mellas, and David Russell here- going to Korea, I will look out for Dave Johnson tomorrow!   I am amazed at how much love there is in this gospel.  It is what makes it so powerful and perfect.  At the devotional, we sang Praise to the Man.  Very  fitting with all of the authority and martydom date of Joseph Smith.  Truly an honor.  One thing that Elder Christofferson said was this- "[Christ] knows you. He likes you.  He trusts you.  Honor His faith in you."  We have been called to the work and he trusts us with his gospel! We can be confident in ourselves and the power we have!  Like Ammon, I know I am nothing, but with God, I can be an instrument in His care who works to bring miracles.

Today at the temple, I felt so much comfort in the celestial room.  I thought I would be more worried and nervous than I am.  It must mean that this is all right.  That I am supposed to be serving, and that this is God's work. Doing sealings just helped remind me why I am doing this.  Because I want others to feel the happiness that I do and the saving power of authority and ordinances on the earth today.  The goal is Eternal life, and each day we can be getting closer!

There have been rough days, don't get me wrong.  There will be more to come OBVI! but I am loving it here and thriving off of the spirit and the love.  I am called of God.  I know that.  I have a purpose, as do all, and this is my time to share it with others. I know God is real and that he love us.  I know Christ is my Savior.  He lives, He is proud of me and I can feel him in my life.  What a blessing it is to recognize his  constant care.  I am nervous out of my wits, but I am ready.  

I love you all and I am doing God's work.  There is no better place to be.  Hurrah for Israel!

con mucho amor, 

Hermana Woolley

Sorry this letter is going to be short! But I will talk to you on MONDAY!! I loved email chatting with you each today though.  I can definitely feel your love and I want you to know that I LOVE YOU MORE AND I LOVE YOU MOST!!!! I was nervous to talk to you and call you because I didn't know what to say! But after emailing with you today, I can't wait to hear you voices and tell you all about my life!!!!!!!! Monday, oh monday I love ya oh monday, youre only 2 days AWAYYYYYYYY!!! (sung in a miranda voice so I hope you appreciated that)

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.