Day 13 Camille

Camille

For a girl who was never my actual mission companion, this girl taught me so much and continues to do so. From my very first day in the mission, we were connected. I didn't see that until 6 months later, but as I took her spot in the Canary Islands and was greeted by a welcome card from a sister I had never met, I knew, she was something special. That was confirmed to me as I listened to members and investigators alike talk about Hermana Johnson. And then I got to meet her. We were put in the same house. She was whitewash training (which would be my next lot in life) and I was trying to figure out how to be the senior companion in an area I didn't know.

She taught me so much about myself. About letting myself change. She was everyone's biggest cheerleader and continues to be. She can make any person feel like they are the most important person. She faces life with an enthusiasm that makes me tired just watching. She loves God and she loves his children. I saw it in Spain and I continue to see it as she lives her life daily reaching out to those around her.

It should be noted that we are drinking Sprite

 

Day 12 Mission

Mission People (specifically fellow missionaries)

This is much broader than the rest. I had the opportunity to have dinner with an elder from my mission and his wife and their little baby. It was so great to catch up with them and just enjoy time together. For me it wasn't awkward at all, even though I haven't seen this elder in such a long time. Another elder sent me a text the other day, just saying hi and asking how I was doing.

I learned so much from the other missionaries I got to interact with. From mission companions, to district and zone leaders, to the mission president and his wife, I was blessed to meet truly inspiring people who love God. I have so many fond memories and great friendships from my 18 months in Spain. Friendships that are based on something so tender and yet so difficult, that even though I don't see them much, are still strong because of the foundation they are built on. Service to Jesus Christ and his church is a bond that's hard to break, even with time and distance.

Day 11 Deb and Rebecca

Deb and Rebecca

Two of the best visiting teachers I have ever had. These girls love me. How do I know this? Because they showed me, more than once a month, as they visited me and gave lessons that were so individualized to me. They asked me where I was struggling and gave me support and encouragement. They are stellar ladies and I just love them.

This was the picture I could find of the two of them on facebook. Jason gets to be a guest of the post I guess.

Day 10 David

David

Here's a cool kid. My youngest brother David has a heart of gold. He may be one of the most stubborn people I've ever met, but he's also one of the kindest people I know. If he's going to do something, he's going to do it on his own terms. He's come a long way in his life and I am so proud of him for his determination. He is a hard worker and very giving. Look at him carrying me because I wore stupid shoes. :) He gets a lot of crap from a lot of people, but honestly you really can't find a better guy. I sure do love this kid. 

Day 9 Chelsea

Chelsea

I think Chelsea is the longest roommate I've had. Probably ever, outside my family of course. She is one of the most amazing women I know. She has one of the most difficult jobs I can think of (I probably wouldn't even know of such a job if I didn't know her) and she does it like a boss. I think she might be the most spiritual person I know, without ever coming across as preachy or better or anything. She has great taste in clothes and lucky for me, doesn't mind letting me borrow things every now and then. This picture is a great example, as the shirt I'm wearing is hers (although it could be Brenda's).
She is an inspiration in her dedication to her workouts and temple attendance. She karaoke's like nobody's business and her cinnamon blondies are out of this world delicious. Pretty much anything she makes is straight out of heaven.
This morning she let me use her computer at the last minute and basically saved my life. I'm pretty sure there isn't anything she can't do. Chelsea, you're the best and I love you!!

Day 8 Dana

Dana

Another life long friend. Two little second graders living down the street from each other. Torn apart in Jr. High, but determined to beat the odds and stay friends. Kinda sounds like a movie promo or TV drama. :) Now here we are 22 years from when we met and 16 years from that fateful day in Jr. High, still the best of friends. This girl can make me laugh like no one else, except maybe my sister. She is a beautiful example of a strong, dedicated woman. She had to be to survive growing up with 5 brothers. There are those friends in life who really are a perfect gift sent from God. She's in that category. 

Day 7 Kevin

Kevin
Here's a dude who knows all my buttons and loves to push them. The two of us have definitely had our ups and downs, but I wouldn't trade this kid for anyone. He is a hard worker and has a big heart. He kept me going at the beginning of my mission when I was struggling and helped me get along better with the Elders in my mission. I knew they were just like my brother, out there doing a really hard thing, far from home, probably the first time away from home, just trying their best. His letters to me brightened my days and helped me keep hope when I thought all my hope was gone. He's a funny kid and we might not always see eye to eye, but I love him. Kemen, my little Kevie, want to pool our money and open a bank account together? ;)