tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18658110528412423592024-02-20T05:44:03.011-08:00Sister Juliet Petersen, Georgia Atlanta North MissionMaloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-84848926550512003912015-04-21T15:32:00.002-07:002015-04-21T15:32:32.623-07:004-20-15<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Hello my wonderful Family :)</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Well! This past week has
been crazy! (A good and a bad kind of crazy ;P ) Transfers went well
and Sister Pi is now in Suwanee! She's a real sweetheart and has an
awesome sense of humor. :P She's normally quiet, but boy once we're
about to go to bed we have the longest discussions! Haha, when we had
our conversation last night I just thought this, "Note to self: I need
to start writing in my journal in the morning because once it's dark,
Sister Pi loves to Talk! :P" Which is so funny because she's more quiet
during the day. But she's very brave, and isn't afraid to be bold with
people and have her way. Maybe it's just Taiwanese culture to be more
quiet?? Ah well, I just call her my crazy Asian friend :) I just hope
that I don't start falling asleep on her because it's gotten a lot
easier for me to sleep at night! (Thank goodness :) ) It's all good
though :) And the bad kind of crazy is just the stress of taking over an
area, but that's pretty normal and should settle after awhile :) </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
A
lot of miracles this week. The work has been picking up slightly! We've
got a lot more appointments with members this week and we're planning
on teaching a part member family <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_378964209" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Tuesday</span></span>!
Which is so great and such a blessing. We also have another part member
family that we're planning on seeing soon. I guess the husband hasn't
been to church in thirty years, but his wife happens to be from China :]
And just so happens to speak fluent Mandarin.... And what do you know, I
just got a companion who just so happens to speak Mandarin :]
Coincidence? I Think NOT!! So I'm hoping that we'll be able to meet with
them and help them to come to church. </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Oh!
Another crazy cool miracle. We ended up making an appointment with a
half active, half less active family and visited them yesterday. I
honestly didn't know what to expect because I had never met them before.
But when we got there, the woman was just really open that her husband
had cancer. The visit ended up just being us and her. But anyways, she
said that They were winning the fight. (The doc gave them 3-4 months to
live. And they were running at 13 now). But she was just so afraid to
lose him. She kept saying how much he was just her best friend and that
she loved him so much and she couldn't handle the thought of saying
goodbye to him. (They're in their early forties). And so she's just been
running. She's been running away from the church, from everyone, and
has been working 24/7 because she doesn't want to have to think about
it. She kept saying over and over that she knew God's plan, she knew God
loved her, but she just couldn't accept the idea of saying goodbye to
her husband. She wouldn't do it. I just had to give her the biggest hug
and I just started crying. The spirit was just so strong, and I just
felt so much of her pain. She just didn't know what to do except run,
but all she really wanted was to live. It just broke my heart. But we
were able to just listen to her and she was able to come to the
conclusion that she really needed to get her family sealed in the
temple. She said that she wasn't ready for that yet, but she knew that
we would help her to get there. (She's afraid that if she does go to the
temple, that that will start the process in where she might have to let
go of her husband and she does NOT want to have to do that.) And I just
figure that's fine. Right now, I think she really just needed someone
to listen to her and tell her that she's okay. That what she's doing is
okay. And no one wants to force her to have to do anything. But we're
seeing her again <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_378964210" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">this Thursday</span></span>
and going out to Breakfast, which I'm really excited about :) She just
wants to be able to have a good time with someone and not have to worry
about what's happening. To be able to really live and not feel like she
has to run. And honestly, who wouldn't want that?</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Anyways,
other than that, things are going well :) The work continues to move
forward and we're keeping busy :) I miss y'all and think about you all
the time! I hope that y'all have a blessed week!</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Love ya!</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Sister Petersen</div>
Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-71615712964780657712015-04-13T18:13:00.001-07:002015-04-13T18:13:46.116-07:004-12-15<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Hi Family!</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Well, Transfers are here and Sister
Davenport is heading out to Fort Yargo to white wash train!!! She's
getting a brand new missionary <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_901994541" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Wednesday</span></span>
and is going to her area blind!! I'm super excited for her though!
She's awesome and confident and I know she's going to do amazing things
there in Fort Yargo. </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
My new companion is going
to be Sister Pi (Said like Sister Bee). I believe she is from Taiwan,
but I'm excited because I got to come with her to the mission back in
December and I hung out with her on the Marta. She's super sweet and
really awesome and I'm excited to get to know her more. I'm not quite
sure how much her English has improved. We will see :) But I'm really
excited about it!! </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Anything exciting?? Hmm... well we have an appointment <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_901994542" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Tuesday</span></span>
which is Super exciting! We met this man a little while ago and have
been going over to his house a couple of times just to see how he was
doing and if he wanted to learn more. And he actually asked a lot of
sincere questions and went to the right websites. And he said that we
could come back and teach him more so we're really excited about that!
Other than that, we've just been building relationships with the members
and it has been so wonderful to get to know the people here.</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Ohhh
goodness. Okay, total craziness this weekend. So, do you ever get that
feeling that everything just seems to happen all at once? Well, that's
been happening with me and Sister Davenport this week. Haha! So,
basically she found out the news that she was white wash training which
is super stressful in and of itself. She also found out that her family
is more than likely going to be moving to Tennessee due to her dad
trying to find a job (all this while she's out in the field. Which is
insane) We also found out that we were going to be getting our carpets
replaced the exact same day as our P-Day when we want to be able to pack
and get things ready for transfers right? Well, we had to get
EVERYTHING off of our carpets and move it onto the tiles. (Everything,
tables, desks, our mattresses.... ridiculous. Therefore, no packing
until carpeting is done...) Not to mention my doctor appointments which
were happening also on the same day. And Sister Davenport really wanted
to be able to get pictures with everyone and be able to say goodbye of
course since she's been here for six months now. And then come to find
out today, being P-day of course when all of this is going on :P, our
carpets aren't going to be replaced and that they have to reschedule. D:
Honestly, when I found out about that, I just laughed and laughed. It
was So ridiculous!! So we'll have to get all of our furniture back in
place and then scramble to get everything packed and ready to go for
transfers. I tell you what! Sometimes you really feel like you're just
being pecked to death by a duck!! But, today had a lot of tender mercies
and little miracles that we've just been able to laugh and have a good
time even though all of these crazy things are happening. I figure, the
Lord has a plan, and everything works out in the end. He's helping
things to move forward smoothly. Sometimes life just gets a little
hecktic and all you can do is laugh :) . </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Well,
I hope that everyone is doing well! I'm excited about the reunion and
that you get to go and visit Dallas and Helen soon!! Send pictures :D
I'm glad the kiddos are doing well! I love them so much and I love
y'all!! Have a blessed week!</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Just Believe,</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Sister Petersen</div>
Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-14109956209413528852015-03-24T20:48:00.002-07:002015-03-24T20:48:40.965-07:003-25-15<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Hello Family!!</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Well! This week was a crazy week! I
forgot to let you know that a General Authority came to our mission this
week. He's in the presidency of the area seventy and his name is Elder
Zwick. We had a huge zone conference <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1550139195" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Thursday</span></span>
the whole day and it was just sooo inspiring and uplifting. And get
this! Our mission is getting Ipads! He announced that he had gotten the
news that our mission was going to be getting Ipads in May and that he
would be coming back to give us instructions on how to use them and what
to use them for. Which is crazy exciting and a little scary too!! So...
I'm probably the most spoiled missionary ever, but I'm really excited
for them :P</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
We also ended up going on exchanges
this week and I was companions with Sister Chapman for a day who is
actually from Mesa, Arizona. Her brother Jarred was in orchestra with
me! Which was crazy fun and exciting! :P Do y'all know any other
Chapmans? She graduated at Mesa High and is 29 years old. She's also
really good friends with Amanda Nicoll. (But I was a silly head and
completely forgot to ask her first name!!!) She also only has one leg
and has a prosthetic leg that she uses if that helps to identify her :P I
was thinking that maybe Amelia might know her. She also has dark curly
hair.</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Anyways, work wise, there isn't a lot to
report for this week. It seems like everyone is just really busy to meet
with us, but we're going to try and get in with that family <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1550139196" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">tonight</span></span> and teach them, so cross your fingers that we'll be able to see them again <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1550139197" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">tonight</span></span>! </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Other
news, we also just found out that the ward that we're in is going to be
splitting!! So there's going to be a special meeting this <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1550139198" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">coming Sunday</span></span>
all about it and what the new boundaries are going to be! It's crazy
and a little sad, but I'm interested to see what the new changes will
bring. This ward has a lot of really awesome people and I'm sure that
they'll be able to adjust to the changes well, I just hope that it'll
all work out. </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
As a whole things are going
well. I've been going through the Book of Mormon over again in my
studies. I'm at Mosiah nineteen right now, and it's just really
interesting to me how reading it slowly and highlighting certain things
really brings the experiences to life. I really like taking it slowly
and studying the verses in depth because I feel like I'm gleaning so
much more out of them. Especially with what Abinadi says to King Noah
and how brave he must have been to have been able to say all of those
things when he knew that he was going to die. It's just awesome and
really inspiring. :)</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Anyways, I hope y'all have a blessed week!</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Just Believe,</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Sister Petersen</div>
Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-29080508029336318452015-03-22T09:28:00.002-07:002015-03-22T09:28:25.717-07:003-16-15<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Hey Fam!!</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Well! There were lots and lots of miracles
that happened this week! The first one actually happened last Monday
evening when we taught the Restoration to a family. It was a really
powerful lesson and the spirit was so strong. After we shared the First
vision we invited them to be baptized and they said Yes!! It was
Amazing! Me and Sister Davenport were on cloud nine! We don't have them
on date, but we're hoping that we'll be able to meet with them tonight
so that we can go over it again (Their dad wasn't there the last time,
so we're hoping that he'll be there this time and we can teach all of
them). But they were SO sincere! It was wonderful :) and Sister
Davenport was happy because their 14 yr old girl is on the softball team
and Sis. Davenport LOVES softball. We asked if we could practice on a
Monday sometime and they said that they would totally be up for it! So
Awesome! And they're also a black family and Sis. Davenport has been
dying to teach and baptize a black family. It's so fun!</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
The
other miracle was that we got to teach another family the Restoration
as well. We actually weren't planning on seeing them, we had gotten in
their area to see someone else, but Sis. Davenport suggested that we try
and see them since we were in the neighborhood. So! The dad ended up
answering the door and let us right in. We sat down and began to teach
him and his wife. The lesson was a little crazy (Their two boys are
nuts, but Super cute :D ) But at the end of it, they asked really
sincere questions about the prophet and us and wanted to know more.
Their schedule is super busy, but they seemed really interested and
invited us to come back anytime. I'm hoping that we'll be able to get in
with them again soon. And what's also super cool is that they're from
Haiti :D</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
What else? Oh yeah! Our zone is trying
out an experiment that we've been implementing the last few days. We're
going on a forty day fast. Not of food and water ;) But a fast towards
those things that are most distracting to us and keep us from the
Spirit. We ended up fasting a real fast the very first day and made a
list of ten things that we truly felt like we needed and could give to
the Lord for the next forty days. And that we would work with Him and
rely on Him to help us truly change and become better people and
missionaries. And in return, if we are worthy, that we'll be able to
become the most effective missionaries that we can be and truly be
guided by the Spirit. It's been Really interesting! A couple of my goals
have been to stop quoting movies and songs and BOY!! I didn't realize
how difficult it would be and how much I actually think about it!! Hah!
But I really feel like because of it, miracles have been happening and
God has really been blessing us. It's been an incredible experience and
I'm exciting to see where things go from here.</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Anyways!
Other than that, all is well and life is grand :) I hope that all is
well for you too! I love ya'll!! Have a blessed day! :D </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Just Believe,</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Sister Petersen</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-20654042471751431902015-03-10T20:37:00.002-07:002015-03-10T20:37:59.480-07:003-9-15<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Dear Fam,</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Hello hello! How is everyone doing?? Things
in Suwanee are going wonderful :) The work in and of itself is a little
slow at the moment, but I love it here and I'm loving my companion, so I
have no complaints :D</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
A lot of what we've been
doing this week is just following up with our potentials and going
through the area book to see if there are any former investigators in
our old teaching pool that we can try and see again. Ha, all of the
investigators that we did have, have basically been dropped/given to
members to work with (there's been a lot of talk about faith and works
and grace and a lot of dialogue that we thought would be better for the
members here to work with rather than us :) ) But we've been getting
email updates about them, so maybe eventually they'll enter the waters
of baptism :)</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Well, had another lovely
encounter with dark forces from the other side and we had to get our
apartment here blessed. It was nothing super serious or intense except
that I had just had one of the most intense nightmares of my life and
Sister Davenport kept getting a lot of anxiety at night. I kept feeling
nervous at night as well and it just felt like things were off. When the
elders came to bless it, they agreed that it felt really heavy in our
apartment. But now it's blessed and things feel SOO much better which is
definitely nice (And I can get a good night's sleep without freaking
out!!) So that's been a huge blessing.</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Since
we've been getting a lot of people who have been talking about the
difference between being saved by grace rather than works, I've been
doing a lot of studies on it lately. I still don't completely understand
it, but it involves the Atonement, and my mind has a hard time grasping
all of that, so it makes sense :P. But I would say that it is
completely and 100% that we are saved by grace. We would never be able
to return back into the presence of God without his Grace and Atonement.
We are asked to be obedient and to do certain things in order to
receive the full blessings of the Atonement, but even then, we wouldn't
be able to do any of those things without the mercy and Grace of God and
Jesus Christ and the Atonement. It all seems to really tie into
together. I don't know, it's just interesting stuff :)</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Anyways,
things are going good :) I hope that all is well with y'all! (I also
learned that I've been spelling y'all wrong my whole mission... Oops :P)
I love you! I hope y'all have a blessed day!</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Just Believe,</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Sister Petersen</div>
Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-39800948331184549652015-03-07T19:50:00.002-08:002015-03-07T19:50:30.989-08:003-6-15<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit;">
<div>
Hey Fam!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Hah! Alright,
alright, before I forget here's my new address :) It's 2115 Breton Hunt
Lane, Suwanee, GA 30024. And Oh My Goodness, I am in LOVE with Suwanee!!
This is the absolute most amazing ward that I have ever been in! Like
everyone that I've met here has been so friendly! At church <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1309785292" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Sunday</span></span>,
so many people just came right up and introduced themselves. The bishop
announced that I was here, and I was asked to give the opening prayer.
People sign up on our dinner calendar months in advance. It's almost
ridiculous how amazing it is here!! I've almost been feeling like it's
been too good to be true :P </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I love my new
companion Sister Davenport. She's from Utah and is the middle in her
family of all girls :) She's been out on her mission for about four
months now. She loves to sing (she's been in choir for a lot of her
life) and is So funny :) we laugh all the time! (We've already started a
quote wall :P ) And best of all, we both want to work. I love it :) And
let me tell you, she has been an answer to my prayers.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Can
I also tell you how many other tiny little miracles that this area has?
One miracle is that I have a comfortable bed, our apartment is small
and cozy, which means it's so much Warmer than all my previous ones (I
don't have to wear a sweater and sweat pants to bed!!!!! :D ) And our
apartment doesn't have ANTS Hallefreakinlujah!! The people are great. We
have a car. We listen to music all the time. The area is big and the
members are so wonderful. Like just the other day, we went over to a
member's house to print something off of their computer and then they
asked us if we had a lunch. We said "No, we were just going to go and
get Chick-fi-le" and they were like, "I think it's time for lunch. How
do you feel about going to Chickfille?" And they totally took us and
paid for our lunch!!! I'm just amazed every single day by the members
here and by how generous they are to us! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As
for the work, we've got a lot of potentials in our area, but the couple
of investigators that we have been working with are very strong
baptists. Our lessons with them, kind of turned into a small bash. They
have a hard time with Grace and Works and would often pull out verses
from the bible that say you only need faith in order to be saved...
Which is frustrating, but we've been doing a lot of research on it. I
remembered there was this great talk called, "My Grace is Sufficient" by
Brad Wilcox that I was able to find. And there's this amazing talk by
Tad R. Callister titled "The Blue Print of Christ's church" (That one is
a bit of a smash down, but it was so amazing to listen to when we found
it :) ) We also had some great team ups who were able to answer their
questions and explain things in a way that we couldn't. So That was a
blessing! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We've also got transfer calls, and
we're both going to be staying in Suwanee for the next little while.
Thank goodness!! All I can say is, is that I feel so truly blessed and
humbled to be here. I am so grateful that God put me here. I am so
grateful that I've been through the experiences that I have been, so
that I can see how great of a place this truly is. God is so wonderful. I
feel so so SO blessed. I know that the gospel is true! And I know that
God does answer our prayers. Even in the most difficult of trials, God
is always there, providing miracles, even if they're sometimes too small
to even see. He's always there, and He always is listening. And I just
wanted to tell ya'll that I love you so much! I know that we met for a
reason and each of us was supposed to come down here at this time to be
with each other and learn from each other. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Now
have we not reason to rejoice? Yea, I say unto you, there never were
men (or women ;) ) that had so great reason to rejoice as we, since the
world began; yea, and my joy is carried away, even unto boasting in my
God; for he has all power, all wisdom, and all understanding; he
comprehendeth all things, and he is a merciful Being, even unto
salvation, to those who will repent and believe on his name." </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Now
if this is boasting, even so will I boast; for this is my life and my
light, my joy and my salvation, and my redemption from everlasting wo.
Yea, blessed is the name of my God, who has been mindful of this people,
who are a branch of the tree of Israel, and has been lost from its body
in a strange land; yea, I say, blessed be the name of my God, who has
been mindful of us, wanderers in a strange land."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Now
my brethren, we see that God is mindful of every people, whatsoever
land they may be in; yea, he numbereth his people, and his bowels of
mercy are over all the earth. Now this is my joy, and my great
thanksgiving; yea, and I will give thanks unto my God forever. Amen"
(Alma 26:35-37).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Can I get an Amen to that? :]</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Thanks for all that you do. I love you! Have a blessed day!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Just Believe,</div>
<div>
Sister Petersen</div>
</div>
Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-89941398696619903812015-02-23T15:51:00.003-08:002015-02-23T15:51:23.572-08:002-23-15<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Dear Family,</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
That sounds like SOOO much fun :) Mom we
will definitely have to go again the next time!! I'm glad to hear that
things are going well back home! </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
It is
definitely cold! But thankfully we have a good heater in the car, and
I've been staying warm :) Cyriacus came to church!! That was SO
wonderful to see! I was so happy to see him there. He missed the
Sacrament, but made it to the rest of the talks. We also had a lesson
with him last week. Haha, when we tried to put him on date, he was like
"Yes! Yes I want to follow the example of my Savior!" And we didn't even
get to the part of baptism. But then Sister Roundy brought up baptism
again and he said that he would have an answer after he went to our
church. So we're going to meet with him again this week as soon as
possible to find out what he thought. </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Well, I've got some interesting news for ya'll. I'm being Emergency transfered to Suwanee. I head out <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_208165473" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">this Wednesday</span></span>
to be with Sister Davenport. I haven't heard anything about her, so I
don't really know what to expect :P Her companion is having to go home
due to some kind of disease with her heart (I didn't quite grab all of
the details on that). But yeah... :) I'm a little bummed about it, but
President came over to our apartment himself and told me that I was
being sent over there. We're the only trio in the mission so it makes
sense that one of us would have to go. However, I'm moving forward
towards another adventure!! I'm excited to see what Suwanee is like. I
know that it's further north, but other than that I have no idea. It's
not as far as Dahlonega was, but it's in the same zone.</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
So
off topic :P, in our study room, we're right next to a window. Since
Spring is coming closer the birds are singing again outside. It's weird
to think that it's been a year since I first came out. It just made me
reflect a little bit. Everything in Georgia is the same. It's the same
mission. The outside is the same. The seasons are still the same and the
trees are the same. I'm still on the same mission, doing the exact same
thing. But I'm not the same :P It's just kind of funny the difference
of feelings that I have now. My worries and concerns are different than
what they were before. I just feel a lot calmer inside and more at
peace. I am sad to be leaving after such a short time, but I'm satisfied
with how I've worked in this area. I've done a lot of clean up here
(the area book was a mess, we had two of them and most of the records
weren't in our area anymore). And I just feel so blessed by the Lord. I
feel like each circumstance I'm going through is preparing me for the
future. Having companions that were Emergency Transferred here, has
prepared me a little for this transfer. What kind of an attitude that I
want to have, and how I want to deal with this trial. It's going to be
hard, but God is near and I am so grateful for that :) </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
I
hope that ya'll are having a good one! Have a blessed day :) I love you
and I am so grateful for all that you do! Thanks for the letters.
Thanks for the emails. Thanks for the stories and the pictures :) I
appreciate them all so much! I miss ya'll! Take care :)</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Just Believe,</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Sister Petersen</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-36128662114432055712015-02-18T15:58:00.002-08:002015-02-18T15:59:01.865-08:002-18-15<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hello hello Fam!</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Boy! It sounds like things are
really crazy back home! I'm glad that things have been so good as well!
Please send me a picture of that hummingbird and let me know how ANWA
goes! I've always wanted to go to one of those! (And if you can get me
an autograph of someone I would love it :P ) And you've been called as
President! (I'm not surprised :) ) That's awesome! And that's so great
that Renea has been able to help you get another name Dad!! Man! I
seriously want to learn how to do that!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Alright!
This week, it's been crazy, but it's been a good week :) Yeah I'm still
in a threesome, transfers aren't until the beginning of March. When
that hits one of my companions (Sister Roundy) will be going home. After
that point I'll probably just stay with Sister Osburn. Let's see, we've
got an investigator that we're working with which I'm Super stoked
about! His name is Cyriacus and he's from Nigeria. He's super sincere,
black, and awesome! I love his accent :) He's got a family still in
Nigeria that he's working to get into the states (he has a five year old
that he hasn't even met yet!) We're planning on teaching him <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_681914094" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">tomorrow</span></span> and putting him on date! Wish us luck! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">We've
also had a lot of success getting in with more Less Actives in the area
who are receptive to us, so that's been Really needed. We've got some
return appointments and hopefully we'll be able to help them come back
to church.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Also, our ward did this Crazy
missionary blitz thing where there was just Sacrament meeting and then
every family had two to three names of less actives or people on the
ward list that we didn't know who they were and they were asked to go
and find them for an hour and a half and see if they were still home. It
seemed like a lot of people had a really good experience with that,
which was so good to see! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Haha, we still have
an ant problem (Raid is our best friend :P ) I've had to sleep on the
couch because they've been on the wall next to my bed. I'm planning on
moving my bed over today and getting my sheets washed so I don't have to
worry about it. Oh! And we ended up having to switch our car. The car
we were driving had this crazy oil leak that was dripping out of the
engine and we ended up losing all of our transmission fluid. Our car was
smoking super badly, we had to go to the Pep Boys place and then call
Elder Residori. But super miracle, because he couldn't get a tow truck
there, we had to keep driving it to the mission office. We weren't sure
if we were going to make it, but we kept praying and it ended up making
it to the office. (It was crazy too because this silly train blocked our
path so we ended up having to go the LONG way around in order to get to
the office.)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Anyways, lots of stuff, but it
was a good week. I hope that ya'll are having a great week too! I miss
ya lots and lots! Have a blessed day :)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Just Believe,</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sister Petersen</span></div>
Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-46534548324687441832015-02-02T20:27:00.000-08:002015-02-02T20:27:05.144-08:002-2-15<div dir="ltr">
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Dear Fam,</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm Sorry I'm Sorry
I'm Sorry!! This week and last week have been insane, so I'm sorry that I
haven't sent you my address! It's 7103 Dunleaf Arc Way. Norcross, GA
30093. </span><div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Okay, I've got a lot to update you on. So
last week on Friday, my companion Sister Summerhays ended up going home
early due to her depression that was really affecting how she worked.
She was really struggling badly, so she ended up talking to president
and got a blessing and she felt like she really needed to go. I had a
feeling that it was time for her to go too, she was just so exhausted
and ready. It reminded me of when I had to go home for my back. It was
just so hard to get out of bed and so exhausting to go to work. So, I'm
grateful that she was able to go home and hopefully she's getting some
help. She was out for about fifteen months, so she's officially done.
Now, that being said, I have two new companions! Sister Roundy and
Sister Osburn! And they are the best :D We are laughing every day and
we're all super excited to get to work. Since I've only been in the area
for about a week, we're whitewashing which is definitely intense and
crazy, but it's a really good experience too :) We're kind of starting
from ground zero.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Probably one of the biggest
miracles right now is being able to have some good companions who want
to work and who are obedient. Sister Osburn has been out for about five
months now, and Sister Roundy has been out for seventeen months. Both of
them like to work hard and with the three of us, so far we've been
getting along well :) Haha, and when we have our initials in the right
order, it looks like Sisters PRO. It's awesome :P </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It's
kind of funny, all three of us have gotten the impression that we
really need to work on helping the ward become more unified. Most of the
missionaries are making goals for getting more baptisms and finding
people to teach. While I was fasting on Sunday, I thought about fasting
for that, but it didn't seem like the right thing to fast for, at least,
not right now. And then we talked about what we want our goal to be and
it really came down to the ward. It just got split in December and so
it feels like everyone is still trying to adjust and get used to new
callings and so forth. It's a REALLY small congregation, but really gung
ho about missionary work. Except it feels like there's kind of a
disconnect among the members in wanting to work together. It seems like a
lot of the members' friends are in the other ward now, and so nobody
really knows each other, and possibly don't know quite how to bridge the
gap. So! We're planning on meeting with the Relief Society president on
Tuesday and hopefully suggest some ideas on how we can help. At the
moment, we've only got one progressing investigator who's part of a part
member family. We're meeting with him tonight actually, I've never met
him before, but his name is Scott and he seems like he's really
interested in learning more. So we're going to be showing him the
Restoration video and just find out where he's at with everything. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">We
just figure, if the ward isn't unified, it's going to be impossible to
retain new investigators. The Elders in our ward, are doing an awesome
job at bringing more investigators and people into the ward, but I'm
wondering how the fellowshipping is going among the members. I love it
here though. There's a lot of great people in the ward, and there's a
lot of potential! It'll probably take a while for things to get settled
down and for people to make new connections, but we'll see how it goes.
There's also a Relief Society get together this Thursday called Speed
Friendshipping, so Hopefully that'll help with everything. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Anyways,
things over all are going really well. I'm loving the work, and I'm
learning lots. It was hard to say goodbye to Sister Summerhays, but I
love my new companions :) And I know she needed to go home too. The
Gospel is true and the book is blue!! I'm glad that things are going
well! I hope Andrew and Amy can get to feeling better! (I'd really like
some pictures of those puppies by the way :P ) haha, I'm glad you've got
chickens and that you're loving primary too!! Fog is awesome :D I love
it, and of course I remember the fog in the pines!! How could I forget?
That was so epic! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Anyways, I love ya'll and I'm praying for you! I hope ya'll have a blessed week! Love you!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Just Believe,</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sister Petersen</span></div>
</div>
Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-60259504280159261512015-01-20T21:02:00.001-08:002015-01-20T21:02:12.199-08:001-20-15<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit;">
<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
Hey Fam!<br /></div>
Yes,
I did get the citrus and it made the bestest best lemonade ever! I was
so pleased :P I'm DEFINITELY going to be taking that box with me to my
new area!! <br /></div>
AND.... my new area is... (drum roll please :) )
The Lilburn First Ward! So I'm heading back to the big 'ole city! My
new companion is Sister Summerhayes (I have no idea how to spell her
name :P ) And in a word, I am Really excited :) I'm sad that I'm
leaving Dahlonega so soon, but I'm excited to go to Lilburn! And Sister
Grayson is headed over to Kennesaw with actually a sister who she got
trained with. Which is really cool. And Crazy news, <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_734367365" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">tomorrow</span></span>
both Sister DeBry and Sister Hooker are going home! Crazy right? It's
so weird how time flies. Then in the next transfer, Sister Madsen will
be heading out! All of my companions are dropping off like flies! But
it's so exciting too.<br /></div>
Anyways, what were some miracles that
happened this week... hmmm.... Sister Grayson and I both survived,
definitely a miracle :) We had our baptism <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_734367366" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Saturday</span></span> and confirmation as well which was SO wonderful :D A lot of people that we've been working with showed up at church <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_734367367" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Sunday</span></span>. And life is good. That is the biggest miracle of all. Life feels good :) <br /></div>
There
were a couple of things that have really stuck out to me a lot from
this transfer with Sister Grayson. One of them is the importance of
humility. If I hadn't had been proud during all of this transfer, I
believe things would have gone so much smoother. I had to be broken down
a lot by the Lord and realize that I needed to make a lot of changes if
I was going to make it this transfer. But that's okay, because it
taught me SO much. God has never been so close before. <br /></div>
(Oh
gosh, I could really list so many things that I learned from this
transfer) One of the biggest things that I've been trying to learn about
is charity. It's amazing to me what charity truly is and how HARD it is
to have. Especially when you really don't want to have charity :P I
wonder how difficult it must have been for the Savior to have loved
everyone including those who rejected and crucified him. It amazes me
that in the bible Jesus would call Judas Iscariot "Friend" even though
he know that Judas would soon betray him. It always amazes me that no
matter what, no matter how stressed we are, no matter how angry we get,
no matter how afraid, no matter how much we abuse or ignore the Savior,
He is always there. He's always right outside the door waiting for us to
let Him in. That no matter what we do, He will always love us. He will
always welcome us back. And that just Blows me away just how much He
really does love us. That His love truly is pure and untainted. It's not
motivated by selfishness. He's not expecting a reward. He usually
doesn't get a reward. Most of the time He's just brushed aside. And yet,
He's still there serving and giving even when we don't recognize it.
All that He truly wants is for us to be happy. That's it. And He knows
how to help us be happy which is why He asks us to do things for Him.
Which is why He asks us to give Him our whole heart because that will
make us happy. Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father are just so wonderful!! <br /></div>
I
am really grateful for what this transfer has taught me. I really
needed it. And I'm really grateful that Sister Grayson was my companion
because I never would have learned these lessons with anyone else. I
would never have gone through the refiner's fire if not for her. And I'm
really grateful for that and for her :) <br /></div>
I hope that ya'll
are having a wonderful week! I'm glad to hear that everyone is doing
well especially Andrew!! Let me know if there's anything that I can do
for ya'll! I will get that address sent to you as soon as I get it :)
Love you!<br /><br />Just Believe,</div>
Sister Petersen</div>
Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-74054044087799701162015-01-11T21:07:00.000-08:002015-01-11T21:07:02.644-08:001-5-14<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit;">
<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
Hello hello!! I hope that all is going well!<br /></div>
Thank
you so much for the birthday package!! I love it oh so very much :) I'm
excited to read that story today (I've been saving it for when I
actually have a few minutes to just not worry about anything). And I'm
really really really excited to get more. Also, a fun little surprise,
Sister Grayson ended up decorating the apartment for my birthday. She
made this Huge sign of Happy Birthday Sister Petersen and then decorated
around my desk too. And I'm pretty sure that she told the members that
we were eating dinner with that night that it was my birthday too, so we
ended up eating cake, and I got a vase of flowers and a blue forget me
not book. It was so sweet of them!! <br /></div>
I would love to watch
that movie as soon as I get home! I actually think that I've seen part
of it, and what I remember of it, it was really cute. AWE I'm SO jealous
that you're going to the zoo!! Take lots of pictures please :D And
that's so exciting that Andy got put on date dad!! Isn't the Spirit so
wonderful?? I love it so much :) <br /></div>
Hahaha, I'm glad that you
guys finally got the lights taken down. (Even though I actually liked
turning them on every so often to give our house a little flare ;P) For
New Years, we actually got to go on exchanges, so I went over to the
Coal Mountain ward with Sister Childs which was so fun :) We got Wendy's
to celebrate and then set our alarm to go off at <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1709697660" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">midnight</span></span>
so we could welcome the New Year. And funnest of all, there were
fireworks that went off right by our window which was Super fun!! When
the alarm went off, I just said Happy New Year and then went right to
bed :P I was way too tired.<br /></div>
Fun news! We have a girl on date for baptism on <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1709697661" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">January 17th</span></span>!!
Which is so awesome! She's twelve years old and I guess the sisters
have been working for her for awhile, but we've finally got her on date
again and her family is okay for her to get baptized. It was so awesome!
Also, another family that we've been working with actually came to
church <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1709697662" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Sunday</span></span>!!
It was SO great to see them :D The dad had been baptized a little while
ago, but he had been so ill for the past few months that he hasn't been
able to make it to church, but we've been visiting them just about
every week. The rest of his family aren't members, but his two boys did
end up showing up at church which was also a miracle! His wife was
planning on coming, but ended up not being able to (if she had made it
that would have been the biggest miracle of all) The missionaries have
been working with this family for Years and years. So who knows what's
going to happen in the next while :P <br /></div>
Anyways, things are
going good. They're not perfect, but they're better than they have been
:) I'll send you another letter in the mail that's more specific, but I
am surviving and it truly is all thanks to the Lord. He has been
blessing me so much with so many little miracles and I am so grateful
for Him. I hope that ya'll have a fantastic week! I love you!<br /></div>
Just Believe,<br />Sister Petersen</div>
Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-24765621291946528912014-12-22T14:34:00.003-08:002014-12-22T14:34:41.057-08:0012-22-14<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
<div>
Hello Hello!! MERRY CHRISTMAS :DDD I
hope that everything is going well for you guys! I'm so glad that you
guys are going to be kazooing tonight and watching the Christmas carol!
Take lots of pictures for me please :D<br /></div>
On Christmas day we're going to be going over to a member's house around <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_104370204" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">three o'clock</span></span> so we probably won't email until around 3:15/ <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_104370205" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">3:30</span></span>
ish? I can't remember what time that is in Arizona. I think we're two
hours ahead? Anyways, that'll probably be the time that we can skype. I
don't know if you have skype on your computer or not. If not, I'm sure
that we'll be able to face time or do something else. <br /></div>
Anyways,
things are going a lot better this week. I've got another letter coming
in the mail that details things out a little bit better. I don't know
when you'll get it due to the holidays, but it explains more. Things are
getting much easier. The ward is becoming more familiar to me and I'm
getting better at remembering people's names. We have a lot of work
going on in this area as well which is also really helpful. Every day
brings its unique challenges and mountains to climb, but I'm taking it
slow and learning as I go. I know that God is making everything possible
and I just have to keep letting it go and putting everything in His
hands and I know that He will provide. Haha, "Let it Go!" <br /></div>
I'm
excited to hear about Christmas from all ya'll!! I'm glad that the
temple lights turned out to be great and that Lisa was able to go! I'm
sorry to hear that Herb and Carol were sick, I hope that they can get to
feeling better soon. And I hope that Renee can get to feeling better!!
That's not good at all! I'll keep her in my prayers!<br /><br />The
Christmas party last week was SO fabulous!! I got to see so many of my
old friends and be able to catch up with them. It was so good to see
Sister DeBry, Sister Madsen, Sister Hooker, and my Sister District again
:) We also of course performed in the choir and we got to go to the
temple which was sooo wonderful! <br /></div>
It's been difficult, but
God has been close by. He's been listening and He's answered many of my
prayers. The biggest thing is that I just need to not be so hard on
myself and just love my companion and this ward with everything that
I've got. I'm here for a reason and I know that God is aware of my
needs.<br /></div>
I love this gospel and I love that I'm back out into
the field. I know that things will be a challenge, but it will be worth
it in the end. The mission wouldn't be so wonderful if it wasn't so
difficult :P The church is true and the book is blue. I'm so grateful
for my Savior Jesus Christ and for this time of the year. Everything is
possible thanks to Him and I am so grateful that we can rely on Him and
be truly changed because of Him. I know that everything will work out
for the best and I'm hopeful for the future.<br /></div>
I hope that ya'll have a Merry Christmas!! I'll see you soon :D<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Just Believe,</span><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sister Petersen</span><br style="font-family: inherit;" />Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-6924579531121209522014-10-14T22:18:00.004-07:002014-10-14T22:18:59.418-07:0010-13-14<div dir="ltr">
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hello everyone!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Wasn't General
conference incredible? Oh! It was such a blessing! And let me tell you,
Sister Madsen and I have been making a lot of changes in order to be
more obedient and follow the Lord. Haha, and let me tell you, it has not
been easy! We've definitely faced some dragons the past couple of days
but it has been so worth it. And the Lord has been blessing us
immensely. Just the other day we got a referral about a girl who has
been taught the first three lessons, is on date, and lives in our
apartment complex. What a blessing! Also we went to a restaurant the
other day and we ended up getting our waiter's information and said that
we would get in contact with him shortly. (He also paid for our dessert
which was so sweet of him!) </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">My back is just
about the same, but I've been going to see the chiropractor every week
and that's been helping a little bit. Haha, she's been having me fix my
posture and change the way that I walk so that (hopefully) I won't be
getting so many sprained ankles and so that my knees and my back will be
able to feel better. She's also been giving me some stretches and
exercises to help me improve. Also, I talked to President Bennion about
it as well. He wanted me to go and see a doctor so I'll be seeing one <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1651235209" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Wednesday</span></span>
and we'll be able to figure out what he has to say. But President said
that if this keeps getting worse and that they can't get things figure
out, they might have to send me home to take a break for a month and a
half and then see how I feel afterwards. I hope that it doesn't come to
that, but I don't really know. Hopefully, we'll be able to find a way
for this to improve. But whether I stay out in the field or end up going
home, I'm at peace with either decision. I know that whatever happens,
it will be the will of the Lord and all that I can do is the best that I
can. And it's okay :) </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Let me tell you, this week
has definitely been one that's been a trial of my faith and courage.
But it has been so incredible. I have seen so many blessings from our
efforts and I'm excited and hopeful for what the future will bring.
Also, I am soooooooo grateful for the Atonement. I am so grateful for
its healing, strengthening and lifting power. How grateful I am for my
Savior Jesus Christ, who loves me no matter what I do. And I love that
as long as we lean on His arm, keep the commandments, and have faith in
Him, we are able to do all things. Life truly is wonderful and I am so
grateful to be serving the Lord at this time. I love ya'll! Have a great
day! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Just Believe,</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sister Petersen</span></div>
</div>
Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-36002381943391841892014-10-06T21:14:00.000-07:002014-10-06T21:14:16.344-07:0010-6-14<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit;">
<div>
Hello hello Family,</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Well,
this week has been a week of trials, but oh conference was so Wonderful.
There were so many answered prayers in each session and they really
helped to boost me up. So I saw the chiropractor <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_444708234" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Tuesday</span></span>
and she ended up adjusting my back and giving me some exercises to do
for my neck. It felt great a couple of days after, but last night I felt
like I needed to stretch my back and that was NOT smart AT ALL. I'm in a
lot of pain today if I twist and turn a certain. And with Sister
Madsen's migraines we've had a really tough time getting out and
working. But I got a priesthood blessing yesterday that really answered a
lot of my prayers. The funny thing was a lot of it had to do with
seeking my own personal revelation and getting the answer that God gives
us trials that we can handle and that this too will be for my good and
that I need to not run faster than I am able and be willing to rest when
I need to. Sooooooo... apparently this trial won't be taken away soon
:/ Haha, but that's okay. I know in the strength of the Lord all things
are possible. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I loved Brother Lynn G. Robbins
talk. That was such a good one and one that I really needed to hear.
Rather than being afraid of man we need to focus on fearing the Lord and
what He thinks. That one was probably my favorite as well as Jorg
Klebingot?? (Spelling?) who talked about Spiritual confidence. Those
were definitely answers to my prayers. And then President Uchtdorf's
talk is always wonderful. All in all it was such a great conference and
such a motivator for me :) </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sorry I don't have
much of an update for this week. But things are going well. We're doing
the best that we can to keep on keeping on. I know that God loves each
and every one of us. I am so grateful for you all. I hope that you have a
wonderful week! Take care!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Just Believe,</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sister Petersen</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
P.S.
Thank you so much for sending that talk in the mail!! I really enjoyed
learning more about your Aunt Nita! That was really interesting! I love
you!</div>
</div>
Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-53473578922894227062014-09-22T22:01:00.002-07:002014-09-22T22:01:41.386-07:009-22-14<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Dear Fam,</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Hello hello! How is everyone doing?
I'm so sorry to hear the news about London! That's so awful! I can't
imagine that happening. I hope that her family is doing okay. </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
WHAT!???
Danielle is having twins!!??? Haha, oh my goodness that's going to be
CRAZY!! But that's super exciting! Tell her congrats for me! And that's
so exciting about Andrew and Amy!! Congratulations to them for their
baby boy :D That's so much fun!</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Well, we survived
the transfer! Sister Madsen is staying for another six weeks! And
the work is actually starting to improve more. (Which is such a nice
change!) We've got a couple more people that we're teaching. The elders
gave us a referral and she was a rockin first lesson! Her name is
Kimberly and she's fourteen years old. When we met her she just told us
that she was looking for a church and for a place that would answer her
questions. The spirit was just soooooo powerful when we taught her the
first lesson! She said that she would pray about it and read the Book of
Mormon. It was so awesome! We've got another appointment with her <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1802167517" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">this friday</span></span>, so hopefully all will go well :)</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
I
think I've mentioned this before, but something has really struck me
the last couple of weeks in my studies and overall about missionary work
and life. It's really about loving people. That's what this life is
pretty much all about. Loving the people around you and helping them
come closer to Christ. I mean you think about it, Jesus Christ and God
are all about relationships. They want us to build a relationship with
them and to build a relationship with our families, our spouses, our
children, our friends, and just with everyone around us. Nothing else
really matters. Wealth, fame, power, worldly pursuits... it really
doesn't matter at all. The way that you gain confidence is by having a
firm relationship with the Lord and knowing where you stand with
Him. And I think that's so fascinating. When you are a righteous
person, and you have charity towards all men, then your confidence can
wax strong in the Lord. (I can't remember where that scripture is, but
I'm pretty sure it's in the Doctrine and Covenants.) </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
I
love that quote from Miguel de Cervantes. It's so true. Our greatest
foes are ourselves. We make the choice to be happy no matter our
circumstances. We choose to smile and have a positive attitude even in
the face of discouragement. I love that quote :) </div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
I hope that ya'll have a wonderful week! I love and miss you so much! Take care :)</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Just Believe,</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
Sister Petersen </div>
Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-9480431255709061352014-09-15T22:19:00.002-07:002014-09-15T22:19:35.267-07:009-15-14<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit;">
<div>
Hello hello!!</div>
<div>
<br />I hope that everyone has
had a great week! Boy! It sounds like things have been getting exciting
in Arizona! What with flooding and all! Good grief, I hope that this
fills up the lakes a little bit at least! Haha :P </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There's
not much really to report for this week! We've got a couple of
referrals that I'm really excited about! Hopefully it'll be able to pick
things up around here. We're going to meet with them this week and see
if they're really interested in what we have to say. You know, it's
funny. You come into an area with a total mindset of how things are
going to go. You expect that maybe you were sent there to help the area.
That maybe you can make a difference there with the people and you're
there to help your companion and whip them into shape. Hahahaha, that's
not been the case for me here. I swear I haven't helped or changed this
area, this place has changed me. And I'm so grateful for that. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Today
was really fun! We had sisters p-day! We got up super early and went to
Walmart to grab supplies with the Spanish sisters. Then we all went
down to the church and made ourselves breakfast and had our personal
studies and a ginormous comp study together. It was really fun being
able to hear all of the sisters insights in their studies. And then
after that we played the game Why Not Testify. We were each given a
subject and then we testified of it to each other. It was awesome and
really powerful. I had the topic The Book of Mormon. (Classic ;) ) And
you know, the more that I read it, the more it amazes me how it truly
was made for our day. It is the word of God, made specifically for us.
And I love that!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Transfer calls are today! I
don't know what's going to happen, but Sister Madsen could possibly be
leaving! I hope not, but whatever does happen, it will be according to
the Lord's will. But honestly, I'm excited :) I'm nervous for the
future, but I'm also excited for what may come! I hope that everyone has
a great week! Ya'll are so great! I'm glad to hear that the trip was so
fun! (Except that you had your clutzy moments :( I'm sorry about
that... you're turning into me :D ) I hope that you have a wonderful
week!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Just Believe</div>
<div>
Sister Petersen :)</div>
</div>
Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-82007888254938548812014-09-09T19:08:00.002-07:002014-09-09T19:08:54.747-07:009-8-14<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit;">
<div>
Hey family!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Boy that quote
definitely fits for me this week. I have some wonderful news!! Both
Beverly and Taylor from my last area got baptized in August!! I was able
to go to the temple <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_147678859" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Thursday</span></span>
and I got to see Both Sister DeBry and Sister Hooker and lots of the
people who were in my previous area! It was truly so wonderful and such a
great blessing! I really needed it, but I think because we got such a
great blessing, there has been such a load of opposition this week!
Haha, it's been rough but I've been learning so much about myself and
about the people around me. It truly has been a great blessing and
miracle.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There were a lot of things that I
learned this week. A lot of hard things. It's been very trying, but the
Atonement is real. And I'm so grateful for it. Sister Madsen has pretty
much been sick for a lot of the week. I got sick as well which was not
fun (If you must know it was diarea and bleh stomach stuff) But while
she's been sick, I've just been learning how to take care of the area
and getting things done. She still has cold systems (We're not really
sure where she got it, she kind of just woke up with it) And Yes I did
get the book on oils! It's been so fun! I haven't taken a lot of time to
read it, but skimming through there was a lot of cool stuff, so I will
definitely read it!! And yes I did get to sing in the choir which was
super fun. We're also singing in the ward choir (I feel so bad for the
director, not a lot of people come) which has been really fun too :) </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I
think one of the greatest things I learned (And I'm still learning this
one :P ) Is how important it is to love the people around me. And to
love myself. That I truly can be okay with the person that I am. That I
don't have to try to be this ideal perfect image of something that I
can't see but imagine what God expects me to be. But that God loves me
for me. I don't have to be anyone else. He still loves me even when I
fall. He loves me in my imperfection. I'm never going to be happy as I'm
trying to be things that I'm not. I'm never going to be happy if I keep
trying to be a robot. But when I open up about who I am, when I reveal
my true self, I no longer have to be afraid of what people think. It
won't matter. I can be me and it's okay. I still haven't figured out
how, but God's helping me :) And it's okay.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I
hope that everyone is doing well! Life is wonderful and I'm learning so
much! God is real and He is good. I am so grateful for Him. And I am so
grateful for the people that He has placed in my path to teach me and
for the people that He has allowed me to reach out to. What a great
blessing (Haha and hardship) it is to be alive. I wouldn't trade it for
the world. I wouldn't trade this mission for the world. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Also
I still want Ryan's address for when he leaves! Haha, I love that you
chased the frogs! I would've totally been there with you! (Oh
my goodness there are so many frogs in our apartment complex! It's
crazy! And they're HUGE!! They only come out at night or when it rains,
but they're so cute haha! We have to be careful where we step because
they look like giant leaves!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Anyways, how's
everyone doing? Anything new or crazy happening? How's gardening going?
How are the gardenias? Have a fantastic week! I love you!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Just Believe,</div>
<div>
Sister Petersen</div>
</div>
Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-76364668215393510582014-09-01T12:08:00.003-07:002014-09-01T12:08:55.175-07:009-1-14<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit;">
<div>
Hello Family! :D</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I hope
that all is going well for you guys! This week was awesome! We had
exchanges with the STL's and I got to go over to the Paper Mill area. We
have really awesome Sister Training Leaders and it was just fun to
learn some new things from them. (Not to mention I got to take a break
from biking and ride in a car again ;) ) Anyways, I'm trying to think if
there were any crazy miracles that happened this week or anything
really awesome.... Oh, the Spanish elders were really dumb and zip tied
the spokes of our bike tires to the metal bar so I couldn't move the
back tire of my bike. Those silly heads :P Luckily it just broke right
off, but we're almost tempted to pull a prank on them now. I think the
biggest thing that I'm learning from this transfer is learning that
trying hard is good enough. That even though I'm not perfect at
everything, the fact that I'm trying my best is good enough to the Lord.
I still haven't learned that yet, but I'm getting there :P </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
At the moment we honestly don't really have anyone
to teach. We're really working at trying to get to know the ward better
and get more hours tracted. We're still seeing some Less Actives, but I
think the biggest thing that we could do is try to get this ward
more gung ho about missionary work. In a way, it's hard, but at the same
time, I have an awesome companion, and I'm trying to do my best every
day, so I honestly don't have much to complain about :P It sounds like
you guys have some fun things coming up! I'm excited to hear how the
Primary Program goes and hear about St Johns and the Brown Reunion :D </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
To answer Dad's questions: We're just in one ward
here. The Roswell ward. There are three sets of missionaries in our
ward. The Elders and the Zone Leaders actually work in our area. The
Roswell elders are on bikes and the Zone Leaders drive a car. In our
district we also have a Spanish set of sister missionaries and a Spanish
set of elders. They're in the Cumorah Branch. We all go to the same
building, but the Cumorah branch meets at <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_208341176" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">11:00</span></span> and Roswell meets at <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_208341177" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">2:00</span></span>. Sister Madsen and I are both feeling better so that's definitely a good thing!! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I hope that all things are going well! I love you
all so much! I love the mission and I am so grateful that I got to
serve! Have a fantastic week!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Just Believe,</div>
<div>
Sister Petersen</div>
</div>
Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-58866467347106566222014-08-25T16:58:00.001-07:002014-08-25T16:58:21.444-07:008-25-14<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit;">
<div>
Dear Family,</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Oh my
goodness! It sounds like there were a lot of things that happened this
past week! Welcome to the family Emma Maree!!! That's super exciting :D</div>
<div>
<br />
</div>
<div>
Goodness gracious! Okay, so not cool! I want to hear more of
what that woman said about the near death experience! That's super
awesome! And that was really cool that the White Mountains are a sacred
place. Definitely true! And that's interesting that they said the
Snowflake area is as well.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Well, not all that much happened to us this week.
Sister Madsen and I got the plague so we were pretty much stuck in our
apartment for most of the week. Then <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_285775011" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Sunday</span></span>
right after we had dinner, we were walking back from the church. Sister
Madsen had awful blisters from her shoes and then I happened to twist
my ankle :/ how typical. I would love to say it was such an amazing
story where I fell down and hurt myself in the process of saving some
child from a mad driver in the middle of the street..... Yeah, no...
I'm just a klutz and totally biffed it while walking on the sidewalk :/
Needless to say, it's not too badly hurt and feels better today. It
didn't swell up too bad. My pride's only hurt a little :P And Bring it
Cameron! We are totally having a race when I get home :D</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
All in all, there's not much to report this week.
Just pray that Sister Madsen and I will have good health :) (It's crazy
I haven't been ill or hurt at all until this transfer.) I'm glad that
ya'll got to go up to the cabin and were able to get things fixed. I'm
definitely missing it! Mom, I don't know why you can't send pictures.
Did you click on the little paper clip image at the bottom of the emails
that you send? That should allow you to attach files to the email.
Anyways, sorry that this email is so short, but I love you all! Have a
wonderful week :)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Just Believe,</div>
<div>
Sister Petersen </div>
</div>
Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-6429020809916623322014-08-13T16:15:00.003-07:002014-08-13T16:15:37.236-07:008-11-14<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hello hello!!!</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Great news! I've been moved to a new area :D AND I LOVE IT!!!! I
have the best companion in the whole world! And it is so awesome! And
I'm an all biking missionary XD Hahaha, so that's definitely been a
change! We rode our bikes sixteen miles <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1102662895" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Saturday</span></span>, and let me tell you, I was super sore <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1102662896" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Sunday</span></span>! I think there are only about three to five companionships who are biking sisters, so... yeah, it's crazy hard, but I love it. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">And news for mailing! So, the mission office can no longer forward
mail to us, so here's my personal address :) 116 Hemingway Lane Roswell
GA 30075. So yeah, all packages and mail and stuff need to go to my
apartment. Sooo.... I'm kind of excited :D</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The area here is super awesome. The people I've met so far are so
great and super sassy! Haha, I love it so much! We went over to a
woman's house who's less active and she taught us how to cook food and
we taught her the gospel. I loved it, because she pretty much looks at a
recipe and then makes it the Natalia way (her way ;) ) There are so
many people here who are just blunt and sarcastic and super laid back
and it's just so great! Definitely some getting used to, but it's
awesome!</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Biking all day is definitely a challenge, but we take plenty of
breaks and I bought this awesome water bottle that keeps the water cold
all day so I'm keeping hydrated! My companion is so awesome! Her name is
Sister Madsen and she is such a sweetheart! She's super open and care
free and just Loves people! She's so great at building relationships
with people and we're getting a long so great. This transfer is going to
be so awesome and I'm Super excited!</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I hope that all is well! I hope that your song went great Mom and
that you're able to get those stories written! You can do it! I believe
in you :) Have fun at the cabin and don't get too stressed out :) I love
you!</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Just Believe,</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
Sister Petersen</span>Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-60406230485048577472014-08-04T22:03:00.002-07:002014-08-04T22:03:26.422-07:008-4-14<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit;">
<div>
Hello Family!!</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Well, the news has arrived! I am heading out to Roswell <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1276985747" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Wednesday</span></span>!
It's the Roswell ward in Roswell city! My new companion is going to be
Sister Madsen and I am SO stoked! (She trained my MTC companion and I
think they got along great! Also one of the sisters here trained Sister
Madsen so I've been getting the lowdown on what she's like.) </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Oh my goodness this last week has been so incredible! <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1276985748" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">Tuesday</span></span> was a super hard day. Probably one of the hardest that I had ever experienced out here. We just didn't know what to do, but <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1276985749" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">Saturday</span></span>
was one of the most incredible days that we experienced that everything
just turned out alright. Beverly is still on date and slowly
progressing towards baptism! We taught her the Word of Wisdom <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1276985750" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Saturday</span></span>
and it turned out fine. Actually, I have to tell you the story. Right
after we said the prayer, she immediately started with, "I don't think I
can get baptized in your church." My heart sank as well as everyone
else's and then Sister Hooker responded, "How come?"</div>
<div>
Her answer, "Well, I just don't think I am willing to give up my
two cups of coffee and two cups of tea to join the Mormon church!" </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Haha,
luckily we had prepared earlier that morning to teach her about the
Word of Wisdom so it was actually perfect timing! So we gave her plenty
of explanations and testified and read scriptures. And essentially it
came down to whether or not this revelation was from God and whether or
not Joseph Smith was a true prophet of God. Because if the Book of
Mormon is true, then Joseph Smith is a prophet. And if Joseph Smith is a
prophet, then he received revelation from the Lord for our day. After
the end of the lesson, she had softened up quite a bit and I ended up
telling her that I was going to be leaving. She was sad about it, but as
we were leaving she said, "Well, do you think you'll be able to be here
for my baptism?" And that made me smile inside. I don't think I'll be
able to, but I was glad to hear that she was still preparing herself for
baptism.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Another miracle, We have another person on date!!!!
This girl is the sister of one of the members we've been working with
ever since I've been here. The member, Sister Gruber, never really had
that strong of a testimony so we would often go to her house and try to
help her see how the scriptures applied to her life and help her to
understand better. Her husband is Super awesome! Way gung ho about
missionary work and the Book of Mormon. He goes out with the Elders all
the time. But Sister Gruber's sister was here and is staying at their
house for the school year and she's not a member. We knew that she liked
the church and was curious about it, but that was about it. Well, <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1276985751" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on saturday</span></span>
sister Hooker got the feeling that we needed to go and visit them that
evening. So we text Sister Gruber to set up an appointment. Everything
else fell through for the evening, but they said that we could come
over. So when we get there, we were just planning on visiting with
Sister Gruber, but everyone was there. We have a casual conversation and
Sister Hooker gets impressed to ask Tayler if she was a member. We knew
that she wasn't, but she felt impressed to ask. Tayler responded that
she wasn't, but she wanted to get baptized and was wondering if we could
teach her. Hahah, we were like... YEAH!!! So we start off with a prayer
and immediately jump into the first lesson. We ask her to get baptized
and she said yes and it was SO AWESOME!!! Her date is going to be <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1276985752" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">August 23rd</span></span> and we are so excited! </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
But the best part for me this week was Fast <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1276985753" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">Sunday</span></span>.
Sister Gruber actually went up to bear her testimony. And that's saying
something. She was a convert to the church when she was nine. She had
never really known why she had joined the church, and she felt like she
had never had a testimony. She'd never read the Book of Mormon all the
way through, and had never bore her testimony before. But seeing her up
there and bearing her testimony just filled me with so much joy. I felt
so much joy and gratitude to be a part of this work. So many good things
have happened here in Webb bridge that I had an opportunity to be a
part of. I felt truly so blessed yesterday, and I knew that it was time
for me to leave. <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1276985754" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">Sunday</span></span>
just felt right. I was able to say goodbye to a bunch of the members
and I was able to see Garnica there and she had brought her family to
church. So many miracles happened, but the best was seeing Sister Gruber
go up there and bear her testimony. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
I am so excited for the future. I don't know what God
has in store, but I can't wait to see. I hope that ya'll have a great
week this week! I love you all so much! Take care!</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Just Believe,</div>
<div>
Sister Petersen</div>
</div>
Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-3942218291717316712014-07-28T23:43:00.002-07:002014-07-28T23:43:03.163-07:007-28-14<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit;">
<div>
Hello fam!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Wow, sounds like
you guys had an awesome time at the cabin! That's so much fun! I've
been thinking about you guys a lot lately. I hope that everyone is doing
well! I can't believe that both Becca and Amy are pregnant! We're going
to have bunches and bunches of babies come the new year!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This week was a good week. We were able to keep
really busy and visit a lot of the members. I'm trying to think if there
was anything exciting that happened this last week that I need to tell
you guys. Hmm... well, we meet a lot of families that we've been trying
to get in with for the past couple of months. School here is going to be
starting up in about a week and a half (School is starting SO EARLY!!)
But it's exciting because that means more of the members are going to be
home from vacation and a lot of families are going to be home. Which
will definitely be good for tracting purposes :)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Oh! A lot of the Less Actives that we've been
working with this past transfer came to church this week! Both Lynn
Davis's made it to church! Which was super awesome! The younger Lynn
Davis hadn't been to church in a Really long time. She and her husband
only stayed for Sacrament meeting, but it was so good to see them both
there. Also! Garnica came to church as well. She's a lady that was
baptized in February and pretty much dropped off the face of the earth.
Sister DeBry and I had started working with her and trying to get her to
come to church for the longest time. We didn't think that we would be
able to, but She finally made it! It was incredible. She's been going
through a lot of financial difficulties, and will actually have to end
up moving by the end of the month. We're hoping and praying that she'll
be able to straighten up and be willing to come to church and keep
moving forward. She has a lot of problems with all of the commandments.
She's one of those people who pretty much got baptized for the
missionaries and wasn't really converted :/ Which is super frustrating.
But, we've slowly been able to see a little progress and honestly I feel
like if there was any reason for why I came to Webb Bridge it was in
order to meet her. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Anyways, I hope that everyone is doing well! I pray for you all! Thanks for all that you do! Take care!</div>
<div>
<br />Just Believe,</div>
<div>
Sister Petersen</div>
</div>
Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-9727450319282765662014-07-21T17:47:00.002-07:002014-07-21T17:47:14.789-07:007-21-14<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit;">
<div>
Hello hello!! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I hope that you guys are having a great time at the cabin! I'm so jealous! I miss you guys so bad.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Things
are going so great here on the mission. I've been learning so much.
This transfer has FLOWN by. I can't believe that there are only two
weeks left in the transfer 0.0. I might be headed out to a new area come
<span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1614533559" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">August 6th</span></span>. We'll see what happens!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Haha, sounds like you guys had a fun time with the
horses! Did you take pictures? I've got some pictures that I need to
send off to you! I'll try and get them printed today and get them sent
off to you this week!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I think probably the biggest miracle that happened
this week was that it was a good week. There was so much more unity and
friendship in our companionship, which has definitely been a big
blessing. Beverly Taylor is still on date! (She's reading from the
Gospel Principles manual, Ensign, Missionary Pamphlets, AND the Book of
Mormon. It's so awesome! I didn't realize that the Gospel Principles
manual went into such deep doctrine! It talks about in the last chapter
how God was a man on another earth before he was God. And of course
Beverly happened to read that while she was studying. Haha, both Sister
Hooker and I were like Oh, shoot! But we were able to answer her
questions, so hopefully it's okay) Her son is coming into town this week
so she probably won't be able to make it to church. We're kind of
worried about what may happen, so we're trying to inoculate her like
crazy and let her know that Satan is going to be on her like crazy.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
These last two transfers have been teaching me ALOT.
A lot about how to be a better missionary and how to be a better
person. Haha, I've definitely have had to have quite a few spiritual
slaps in the face. I still don't feel like I have any idea as to what
I'm doing, but I know that the Lord is near. As long as I'm worthy of
having the Spirit, everything is okay. It's interesting to me how Satan
works. He really likes to hit us right where it hurts the most. Which is
the family. (And for the mission, the companionship.) If he can strike
at the heart everything falls apart. This transfer has really helped me
to see how important family is. It's made me really grateful for the
things that I have. So, shout out to ya'll! I'm so grateful for my
family!! Thanks for all of the lessons that you've taught me. Thank you
for teaching me about life and how to be a good person. I'm so grateful
for you Mom and Dad. And I'm so grateful for my brothers and sisters.
Dallas, Helen, Andrew, Amy, Amelia, Pete, Cameron, Becca, thanks for all
that you have taught me and continue to teach me. I'm so grateful for
your examples. I feel truly blessed to be the last one in line to learn
from those who have gone before me. I look up to you guys a lot. Thank
you!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Cheers to a new week and a new adventure! I'm praying for ya'll! Keep the Faith :)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Just Believe,</div>
<div>
Sister Petersen</div>
</div>
Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-73929233169242905442014-07-07T14:10:00.002-07:002014-07-07T14:10:59.882-07:007-7-14<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-family: inherit;">
<div>
Hi Fam!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Wow, it sounds
like there's been a lot of stuff going on back home :) I'm SO glad to
hear that the cabin didn't get burned and that the homestead is alright.
And that's so much fun that you guys had a great fourth of July :)
How's the book coming mom? Were you able to read a chapter with the ANWA
group? Oh man, I miss the Arizona storms. Those were the best. The
storms here are so weird. They only last for like ten minutes. It just
makes me think: That's it? Where's the lightning? Where's the wind? That
was nothin'! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Well, let's see... this week had a lot of miracles :) One of our Less Actives has been coming to church every <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_981944122" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">Sunday</span></span>
for the past three weeks!! We also showed her a way to be able to
answer any questions she had about the gospel on her phone and got her
the whole gospel library uploaded on it. Her name is Lynn Davis and
we've been helping her ever since I got into this area. She has a
beautiful garden in her backyard so we often like to go back there and
help her out with weeding and stuff. (Sister Hooker and I are now
professional weeders :P) </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We had one of our investigators also come to church.
Her name is Beverly Taylor and she's a sweet older woman that we've
been working with since pretty much I first got here. We were able to
give her a Priesthood blessing <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_981944123" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Sunday</span></span>
(She's been going through a lot of family hardships. Her husband has
gone blind and is almost deaf which happened a couple of years ago and
he's been struggling.) We've been wanting her to get this priesthood
blessing for so long and finally she accepted and the spirit in the room
was SO powerful. It was awesome! We're determined to get her on date
this week, but it's been so incredible seeing her slowly progress and
grow closer to the Lord. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I hope that everyone is doing well back home! Things
are going so good here :) I've learned so much these last two transfers
and continue to learn so many things. It's been such a blessing (And a
hardship ;) ) but it's definitely been worth it.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Missionary challenge!</div>
<div>
So we've asked
everyone in the ward over here to start praying for their missionaries
in their ward. And so I'm giving ya'll the same challenge. Pray for the
missionaries in your ward that you're working with by name. Pray for
their investigators. You don't need to pray for me, because the ward has
been praying for us, but please pray for them and help them out :) And
that's so awesome that you guys got to feed them! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I hope you guys have the best week ever! Love you!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Just Believe,</div>
<div>
Sister Petersen</div>
</div>
Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1865811052841242359.post-36545763262184539602014-07-07T14:02:00.003-07:002014-07-07T14:02:36.166-07:006-30-14<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<div>
Oh my goodness! I am NOT excited to hear about what's going on
at the cabin. I will definitely keep that in my prayers from now on.
Please let me know if there is an update on that one. Haha, I guess I
didn't realize where I was when you were doing all of that missionary
work with Sister Valentino, but that's awesome! How are things going
with Lee? Is she enjoying all of the Family History stuff? I sure hope
so. Well, I don't have all that much time to write to you because we've
had a lovely computer situation here, but I hope that everything is
going well.<br />
</div>
Things this transfer have been going so much better than the
last transfer. Sister Hooker and I are getting along so much better. I
think last transfer I was just SUPER stressed about so many things and I
was just really REALLY struggling to be okay with everything. The work
is still progressing. We've got a couple of people that we're teaching
right now. Nothing Super solid, so we're really working hard to build up
our teaching pool. But the members are great and we're getting fed
every night, so that's awesome :) How are the grandkids doing? I'm glad
that you guys were able to go to St. George! I hope that you're having a
blast with the plays! Haha, make sure you give dad a good break and go
to the game and fish store or something that he'll love too :P But I
love you all! I hope that you have a great week! (Sorry for the shorter
email :/)<br />
</div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Just Believe,</span><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sister Petersen</span>Maloree Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12597502087161020512noreply@blogger.com0