December 31

Another year has come and gone! My goodness... I think this is the fastest year ever! I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and have great plans to ring in the new year. Sister Forbush (a housemate) has amazing plans to ring in the new year at 10pm so we can make our 10:30 curfew.... Party it up as missionaries!

We had a great Christmas! Christmas Eve we spent with Bishop Thompson and his family. They had BBQ take-out so it was very reminiscent of home. After we stuffed ourselves silly we had a program put on by his family. Each of the kids performed a musical selection and we watched a Mormon Message and sang songs and read the Nativity. It was great night. His family gave us Kansas City Chief shirts for which I was very grateful; I didn't want to buy my own! They wanted us to have something to remember Kansas City by.

Christmas morning we had breakfast at the VC with all the other Sisters, senior couples, office staff, facilities management personnel, and President and Sister Keyes. We (sister missionaries) acted out the Nativty for everyone and had a sing along. President Keyes read a book that he had written. It was a really fun morning. When we were done we quickly drove to the Perry's home where we opened presents with them. It was really fun. Each member of their family had gotten us a gift. Super sweet of them and a great way to spend the morning. While S. Harward skyped her family S. Weng and I got to know the Perry's better. For lunch we headed back to our house and ate what we had available--mostly sugary stuff. I didn't eat really well because a member family was suppose to send dinner kind of early. We were at the VC by 3pm. It was a really slow night. All the Sisters took turns skyping. Best part of the day! I loved seeing those of you I could and am sad I missed the rest of you. I got a little personal study done then got distracted by the brain teasers the Godfrey's had brought for us. (Only day they'd do that--it was incredibly slow--2 people in 6 hours). [Oh, yeah! Someone try to find the game IZZI for me, k?] Time flew by and before I realized it I was starving but we couldn't get a hold of our members. We sent texts and left voicemails. Around 8:30pm we heard from them... THEY FORGOT! So, yeah... My Christmas dinner consisted of tamales leftover from another ward. Yum! The family that was supposed to feed us redeemed themselves on Sunday night. However... We will probably never let them live it down.

It was a good day. The rest of the week we worked hard to find those who were prepared to hear the gospel. We did our best but it was a slow week. We had a great day at church on Sunday and had a good day yesterday. Heavenly Father is really blessing us for our efforts. I'm really grateful for this opportunity to be a missionary. I know I needed to wait until later to go. It's been a blessing in my life that I definitely needed now. I'm grateful to be at the VC. Not only because it is warm inside but also because of the things I am learning here and the people I get to meet. Yesterday, S. Harward and I got to take 2 young men on a presentation. Neither one of them was a member of the church. We had a great discussion with them and planted a huge seed. They didn't leave their info with us but I know that one day they will read the Book of Mormon we gave them and have a desire to learn more.

This gospel is true! Jesus Christ is our Savior and Redeemer. He loves each and everyone of us. He knows who we are and what we need to accomplish and overcome the things set before us. I know that the Book of Mormon is the word of God. I know President Monson is a prophet sent to lead and guide us. I know that our family is so great and such a wonderful blessing to me--and each of us! I love you all and so grateful for each of you. You have all blessed my life in countless ways! I LOVE YOU!!

Sister Wilson

 

 

1--Christmas chaos

2--Our Christmas nativity

3--Fun!

 

 

December 24

MERRY CHRISTMAS, EVERYONE!!! I hope you all are having a good day and remembering the Spirit of Christ today. Since I will be talking with a lot of you tomorrow this isn't going to be real long.

I wanted to take a minute this Christmas season to bear my testimony of the Savior. I had to do this on 14 December at a Christmas program us Sisters put on at the VC.... In fact, I think I've even got it on DVD. I'm sure you are all so excited to see that, huh?

Anyway, I've been thinking a lot lately about the song "Mary, Did you Know?" At sing along I went to I had the opportunity to listen to/read the words and they stuck with me. I think about the little Christ child born in a manger and wrapped in swaddling clothes. Do we know that He walked on water? Do we know that He gave sight to the blind? Do we know that He is the Son of God? The song goes on but I don't have the words right here with me. But they touched my heart. How much do we really know? Have we asked our Heavenly Father to tell us of these truths? Do we know those things our Savior did for us? As I see the Christus every day I think about the Atonement and what it does for me. I know that our Savior lives and loves each one of us. I know that He is always there waiting for us to lay our burdens at His feet. I know He wants to help us. I know He loves and cares for each one of us. I know that He has a plan for me. I know that His expectations for me are so much higher than I have for myself and He has a way prepared for us to accomplish those things. I know that this gospel is true. I know that through our Savior Jesus Christ is the only way for us to find that peace and happiness that we are looking for. I know that we are children of God. I know that we are here to be tested and tried; to find our way by faith rather than by sight. I know that we are led by a living prophet today. I know that the Book of Mormon is the word of God translated by the power of God. I know our Savior lives.

I love each of you. Have a very merry Christmas.

Love,

Sister Wilson

P.S. I survived yet another transfer in the Lee's Summit 2nd Ward; looks like I'm gonna die here. S. Weng is still with me and S. Harward joined us. LOVE YOU!

Pics...

1--Christmas Eve dinner (at Olive Garden) with the Stevenson's!! (S. Stevenson, Me, S. Weng, S. Harward, E. Stevenson)

2--We did service but S. Weng forgot her shoes and S. Harward forgot to bring her shirt. We were an interesting group for the day.

3--All the VC Sisters from last transfer

 

 

December 17

My goodness. I really have no idea where time gets to. Christmas cards are coming, I promise. Hopefully I'll get them in the mail today. Have I told you lately how much I love each one of you? I really, honestly, truly do. You have each touched and blessed my life in so many ways I cannot even begin to count them all. I love you all and hope you have a fantastic holiday season.

Well... I was somewhat frustrated with myself this week and the lack of work that our key indicators show. But, thankfully, it's not all about numbers. It's about quality, not quantity. Monday we had some appointments scheduled but they all cancelled. #lifeofamissionary It was okay, though. We had a good dinner with Sister Ferry. She had her granddaughters there. She wanted us to watch/hold/play with them while she finished dinner. Unfortuneately we couldn't do that (even as much as we wanted to) so we made the rest of dinner instead. It was good; she really needed our help.

Tuesday was a fantastic pday.... Didn't do much; it was great.

Wednesday was a mission wide zone conference. SO COOL! It is an amazing sight to see 280+ missionaries in one place. The spirit was amazing; the trainings were great. I had the opportunity to bear my testimony in front of all of them as this was my last zone conference. It was an intimidating experience but one for which I was grateful. We took a mission photo, which was amazing organzied for having 280 people involved. After lunch we had a Christmas program that was put on by each zone in the mission. It was a great day. Christmas packages were passed out. Thank you, everyone. It's ridiculous how much I'm loved. I forgot to get a picture but I will before I open everything. S. Weng got some packages, too... For some reason she associates everything weird with me. (Oddly enough the return address had been blacked off her packages. Haha!) It's been ridiculously hard to keep her from opening them. I am bound and determined to help her have a good American Christmas and that means not opening presents until the 25th. I hear about it all the time. After the mission conference I went on exchanges to the Blue Springs 1st Ward with Sister Lee. It's always an interesting experience being in someone elses area; always makes me grateful for what I have back in my ward.

Thursday afternoon I got back from exchanges and went to dinner at the other Ferry's house. It was great; I love that family. She loaded us up with cookies and goodies and food. We did our weekly planning that night.

Friday we were suppose to do a lot of service and help set up for the ward Christmas party. BUT... It was freezing rain so our parking lot was like an ice rink. The mission fleet was grounded and we couldn't go anywhere. We did end up walking next door to help Danyell set up for her wedding; so we did get some service in. After studies and lunch we finished weekly planning and did some missionary work via phone. We were not able to get to our ward Christmas party. Our zone leaders and President Keyes wanted us to stay close to home because they didn't know what the weather would do. So we went to Danyell and Jack's wedding instead. Yeah! They are married and one year from now I can come back and go through the temple with them!!! It was a great way to end the night.

Saturday we got out later than we wanted to because of freezing temperatures the night before. We knocked on a lot of doors but didn't have much luck with anyone answering... guess they were all out Christmas shopping? That evening was our Christmas performance at the VC that we have been preparing for for 5 weeks. It was really great. I had about 2 minutes notice before it started that I needed to bear my testimony... Okay, I had about an hour's notice because the Spirit told me but I chose not to think about it.... Won't do that again. The performance was great. I really enjoyed being a part of it... Not in the spotlight, though. I don't like that. Elder Simper recorded the whole thing so I hope to get a DVD to share with you all.

Sunday is still my favorite day. Church. Visit some people. Dinner with the Laudie family. I love it! Monday was a great day, too. Taught 2 lessons and found a new investigator. Great way to start a week!

Well, I love each of you. I'm so grateful to be able to remember Christ this Christmas and the sacrifice He made for us. Remember to serve those around you and help them feel of the love our Heavenly Father has for them. I know Christ lives and loves each one of us. Thanks for all you do for me! LOVE YOU!

Sister Wilson

(P.S. Transfers are on Thursday but I shouldn't be moving...crazier things have happened, though. Pday should still be on Tuesday!)

Pics...

1--S. Harward, Me, Jack, Danyell, S. Smith, S. Weng, S. Medel

2--Me and S. Weng; Love this girl!

3--Me and Danyell

 

 

Dec 10

Hey... I love you all. I honestly and truly do. I don't know what I would do without each of you in my life. I want you to know that I know that this gospel is true. I know Christ is my Savior and Redeemer. I know that He loves each one of us and wants us to return to live with Him. I cannot even begin to cover how each one of you has touched and blessed my life. You are my support team for which I will be forever grateful.

We have had a relatively normal week as far a missionary work goes. Last Wednesday we were on exchanges; Sister Liu came to Lee's Summit 2nd Ward with us. Not as successful as we were hoping but we did get to visit Mona, a less active member. She is super sweet. Always super happy to see us. That night the visitor center closed early so all the Sisters could head over the to the stake center (next door) for a dinner provided by the Independence Stake. We provided the entertainment. Us Sisters played bells and the Elders acted out the nativity. Kind of funny.

Thursday we did our planning and froze because no one answered the door. We had our first performance at the VC that night. It was fun. Felt more like Christmas than it has to this point. We had a sing along; I loved that. Got to sit by the Stevenson's; best day every!

Friday we had zone training, which I always love. The Elders were kind of mad at me (not really but it makes the story great). For our mission wide zone conference tomorrow someone had signed me up to sing a solo (HA!) which gets the Elders out of doing anything. I told them I'd be happy to do so but only if our zone leader would sing a solo, too. Knew I was pretty safe on that one. So, now, the entire zone is singing a musical number. Probably not their favorite person right now but I thought we should all get to share in the joy of the season. Friday afternoon/evening we had 2 member present lessons and found 2 new investigators. GREAT DAY! We were also able to teach Shayla, an 11-year-old girl and her brother. It was a good day.

Saturday was a visitor center day until 3pm... Not too many people came in. We had dinner with the Blake family. We got to be there as Tiffany opened her mission call. It brought back so many memories. We went around visiting people then noticed our phone was missing. We went back to the Blake's but couldn't find it. SIster Medel has super hearing because she was able to find it in some leaves where our car had been parked. Miracle! However, she doesn't hold the phone anymore...

As always, I love Sunday. Shayla came to church with her brother. We are visiting them again tonight. We got fed dinner. And it was the Christmas Devotional... No longer the First Presidency Christmas Devotional... More change. And yesterday was a slow day at the VC... Only 2 presentations in 6 hours. That's typical, though. Last year was slow, too. Lot's of study time.

So... Yeah... That's my week. Missionary work all around. This week is going to by quickly, too. We have mission conference and Christmas parties and another VC performance. I can't wait to tell you all about it. You are all great. I love you!!!! Stay strong. Be courageous. Share the gospel!

LOVE YOU!!!

Sister Wilson

Pics...

1--Independence Stake Sisters... Plus my companionship-We're from KCMOZO!

2--This morning in freezing cold weather!

3--Sister Smith!

 

 

December 3 - part 2

So... I had to switch computers so I sent that last email super fast. I hope I didn't leave anything out. I did want to let you know that the VC has a ton of activities going on throughout the month. Lots of musical groups coming in to celebrate Christmas. Anyway, as visitor center sisters we will be performing twice. We've practicing our songs every night after the VC closes. We will also be playing a medley of songs on the bells. I really think we need to play the bells next year as a family; the kids (of all ages) would love it. Found out yesterday we will also be performing for the Independence stake tomorrow night. I still don't like being in the spotlight. Anyway, I'm counting on one of the Senior Elders recording it and giving me a copy so I can share it with each of you. We've worked hard on this.

Also, I wanted to send pictures. LOVE YOU!!

Sister Wilson

 

1--Dinner at the Maupin's (S. Weng didn't want me to be in the pic...)

 

2--Elder Wright and Elder Gleason... Check out his plate

 

 

3--This is Danyell's daughter, Kahlia. She is adorable! She is always wanting us to pick her up!

 

December 3

Hello, everyone! I hope you all had a fantastic holiday weekend.... Okay, sounds like Chuck-A-Rama flopped but sounds good otherwise. The best part is just being with family, I think. I'm looking forward to being with you all next year. It hasn't really felt like the holidays this year (A) because I'm not with you and (B) because the weather is so stinking good. It's almost 60 today. I'm really grateful for the fantastic Missouri weather. I don't think many people know how really great it is. So, yeah, it really didn't feel like Thanksgiving. I kept forgetting that it was. I even thought at one point about making breakfast rolls in the morning but completely forgot that the holiday was coming as fast as it was so I didn't do it. I think that was the biggest disappointment of the day; no sweet rolls.

Not too much new or exciting going on this week. Thursday (aka: turkey day) was good. We had dinner with the Maupin family. The Maupin's lived in the Fleming Park Ward and moved about a month before I was transferred, so I followed them around. It was actually kind of nice to be at a home where I know the people relatively well and feel comfortable just making myself at home. When we got there I just started digging through drawers to find the stuff we needed to set the table. It was great! I could actually serve without having to ask where/what I could do! Don't get that many opportunities.

Thursday night we were on shift at the VC. Last year, at the Liberty Jail, we had absolutely NO visitors. It was packed! There were lots of people with family in town so they came through after their turkey dinner. It was really great. I was able to stay awake because it was so busy. In fact, the entire week of Thanksgiving it was super busy. There was a BYU basketball tournament so we had all sorts of fans coming in while they were in town. I've had lots of people tell me that the VC and the Jail are both packed during the summer months but I don't believe them. I've never seen this place like they are describing.

Friday was a great day. We had a conference call with President Keyes and the assistants. It was our zone and one other zone. We learned a lot about finding and being prepared. I love conferences. I think the call inspired us because Friday night we found 3 new investigators. Fantastic! At one home we went to we ran into a man, Kenny, (who may or may not have had too much to drink) who kept talking about wanting to go home to Michigan. When he found out that Sister Weng was from Taiwan he kept telling her to go home. "Just go home, red. Go home." He made her give him knuckles and then twist it. It was really kind of funny. Add that to the less active we went to visit (and saw inside as we walked up to the house) who didn't answer the door but came out the garage door while we were still on his doorstep but didn't get in his car and drive away until AFTER we walked his direction..... Yep, funny night. These are things to remember.

Goodness, other than that it really has been a normal missionary week. I love the trio that I am in. I love the Sisters that I serve with at the VC. I love my housemates. I love the senior couples. I love Missouri. I am so grateful to be a missionary. To be able to help others come to Christ in the Lee's Summit 2nd Ward and at the VC is fantastic. I took a presentation with S. Medel the other day and one of the ladies told me that I was so smart and just made for doing this! I think she was referring to the public speaking part, oddly enough. Who knew that I would actually be okay with public speaking and singing? Man! The things I didn't realize I was signing up for as a missionary. I know I have become a better me. I know now that I was totally lacking self confidence and the ability to be who the Savior needed/wanted me to be. I know that, if nothing else, I have become my own convert on my mission. That I have learned who I am and who I want to become. I understand now what is important. You know, I never wanted to be one of those weird RM's when I got home but I'm afraid I will be. I'll need each and everyone of you to help me through that awkward phase... Ah.... Who am I kidding? I think awkward is the new me. Love it!

I love each and everyone of you and am so grateful for all you have done for me. Thank you, so much, for continuing to update me and let me know how life is on your side of things. I cannot express to you how much you have each individually blessed my life these last 11 transfers. I love you. Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ love you. This gospel is true. I know it! Stay strong. Be courageous. Share the gospel. You are great. Lots of love and happy December 3rd. You are constantly in my thoughts and prayers.

Love,

Sister Wilson

Nov 26

Oh my goodness it's been a crazy week! Lot's of little events have added up to make it a great week...just crazy! Where should I start?

Well, last week after emailing and grocery shopping I had one of the Sisters give me a haircut...I desperately needed it. You know those days when you just don't feel good about yourself and you need a boost? This was one of those days. My hair is the perfect length (for now) and my grays are no longer showing. I felt much better and got the boost I needed. Seriously, my mood was like night and day. Tuesday night one of our members took us out to eat at Mama Garden-a Chinese buffet and S. Weng's favorite. She hadn't been feeling well so she spent the whole day taking it easy so she would be prepared to eat-it was great. S. Weng is the best!

Wednesday morning we were at the VC just doing our job; having a great time. Got lots of study in. Great day! We went into our area (have I told you it's half an hour away?) and started visiting people and having a great time being missionaries. We really don't know our area well, the map we have is ridiculously hard to read because it's so small so we rely on the GPS for everything. Well, I guess we needed to be tested on our map reading skills or something because the GPS stopped working! AH! It still had sound and was telling us where to go but the screen was completely dark. We couldn't put in an address. We were able to go somewhere, though... Just not where we had planned on ending up. Because we had to utilize the map we were about 15 minutes late for dinner after having a great meeting with a less active family. Then had to navigate our way home in the dark, in unfamiliar territory. I do well if I can get to main roads but I don't do back roads so well. It was a bit of a stressful night but we didn't get lost and we were able to be successful in our endeavors. The GPS didn't work for a couple of days but is now doing better and we haven't had a moments grief with it since. So weird!!! I don't know what it was that we were suppose to learn but I hope we learned the lesson we needed to. I'm still directionally challenged and can't read maps!

Thursday morning S. Weng and I were able to visit a couple people after we completed our weekly planning (not going to miss that) then we had to be on shift at the VC. They were putting up the Christmas decorations when we got there so other than helping guests we were completely distracted as we helped to beautify the center. I LOVE IT! I love the feel of Christmas in the air and the fact that it's the holiday season again. I can't believe it's been a year already. I was just going along helping out when S. Pyne informed me that I had a call. This is highly unusual. There are 2 Sister Wilson's and the other is the Sister Leader at the VC, calls are generally for "the other one." I'm grateful not to be needed most of the time; I wouldn't want to deal with the things she has to. Anyway, the Assistants were calling me! My heart dropped. It's generally not a good thing to be hearing from the assistants mid-transfer. Especially when they sound all business like! Well, this was a business call. Elder Lunt thought I sounded nervous and wanted me to guess what was going on. I had absolutely no idea! He got to the point quickly (that's what he said he was going to do but I don't think he really got there quick!) Long story short... A Sister who had been training for a week was going home for medical purposes and I had been called to train her trainee. Well, I love training so that wasn't a problem but I thought for sure I would have to move. NOPE!! I am, again, in a trio with S. Weng and am training S. Medel. She is great! She is from California. I feel a little left out, though. S. Weng speaks Chinese and S. Medel speaks Spanish.... I only speak English. I do love the trio; these sisters are great. I'm thankful I get to train again and I'm grateful to be able to still learn from S. Weng.

Friday our plans were kind of all over the place. We had our VC training meeting, study time, then went to district meeting in Lee's Summit. Came back to Indepdendence to pick up S. Medel before heading back to Lee's Summit to visit a couple people before having dinner with a recently returning member. It was Asian night so we had curry lettuce wraps. They were pretty good. We then came back to Independence to go to a devtional with Danyell. We used a lot of miles but we had a good day.

Saturday was a VC day. After our shift and study time we visited with a less active member and her care giver, Gail. We had a great lesson with them. We rushed to the church to eat our dinner then had the adult session of stake conference. It was a great day! Not only did we get to see the other missionaries in the zone but I also got to see a lot of my Fleming Park peeps....and Lee's Summit, too.... Sunday was the general session of stake conference. It was...interesting. We were able to have dinner and a great lesson with Danyell and her sister before visiting with Mary, a 92 year old recent convert, and heading to the VC for our night shift.

Monday was an extremely busy day at the VC. There is a basketball tournament going on here and BYU is participating. We had many people come into the VC that were here for the tournament. Kept us hopping, I love it! About half an hour before our shift ended I was on board to take the next presentation. I saw a single woman walking in and jumped up to greet her. As she got closer, I recognized her. It was Heather from the Liberty 1st Ward!!! Heather was baptized about a year ago; right before I left Liberty. I guess the Sisters in the ward told her that I had only 2 weeks left on my mission so she called and got my schedule to come see me!!! Oh my goodness!!! It was such a tender mercy to be able to visit with her. She is doing great! I cannot believe I have been out long enough to have a recent convert be almost ready to go through the temple. Seeing Heather brought up so many memories. I love that woman so much and her family is great! She is going to try to come back to the VC wit her family so I can see her again before I go. Seeing Heather really strengthened my testimony of my mission. I was able to be there and be an essential part in Heather's conversion. She is a much happier person than when I first met her a year ago. Oh, gosh! I really can't express how grateful I was to be able to see her.

Well, that was my week. Lot's of little things going on. I am so grateful to each of you! I keep forgetting that Thanksgiving is in 2 days...Completely unreal to me. I am grateful to be serving a mission. I am grateful for the things I am learning. I am grateful for the experiences I have had to make me a better me. I love each of you so much!!! I have the greatest family ever. I LOVE YOU!!!

Sister Wilson

Pics...

1-Check out my new style! LOVE IT! (Not really new but...you know what I mean)

2-Me, S. Weng, & S. Medel

Nov 15

Hello to my favorite family! Well, I think you're my favorite. I haven't heard from some of you recently.... Wish I had time to write you all! Keep me updated on life, though. I want to know what is going on with you. Gotta keep me in the know, ya know?

It's been a rather uneventful week. I really don't have a whole ton to share with you as far as work in the Lee's Summit 2nd Ward is concerned. Sister Weng and I are going to be staying together for this transfer. I'm so grateful for the opportunity to serve with her. She is fantastic; she's got a lot of Asian stubborness and sass.... We get along great! We are working hard to find those who are prepared and ready to receive the gospel. We are doing our best to find and meet those in our ward who we don't know. We are staying busy at the VC. Not always with guests but with studying, chatting, and referral calling. Lots for us to do. Each day is continually going faster. Time is definitely flying by.

Remember that girl I told you about that came into the VC? She wanted information on the Mormon culture to do a paper for one of her classes. I have been in contact with her via email. Anyway, the sisters in the YSA she is close to told me the other day that she came to church! On her own! The sisters had been unable to contact her but I had given her the information; and she went to church. I was grateful to hear about it. I haven't really enjoyed referral calling or chat because I haven't really had many positive experiences but I'm grateful for this experience. I know that our Heavenly Father places us where we most need to be so that we can touch those than we need to touch. Definitely boosted my testimony of referrals.

Missouri has turned dreary. All the leaves fell off the trees overnight and now it's kind of gross looking. It got cold, too. Not snowy weather but lots of wind that goes right through you. I've pulled my winter coat out a couple times but try to boycott it when I can.

We had a Bible study a few weeks ago. We were studying John 2. We talked about the miracle of turning water into wine in great detail. As we studied I thought about the fact that many people would have been at that wedding; lots of friends and relatives. How many of those people that were present really knew and understood that they were witnessing a miracle? How many knew that Christ had just performed this wonderful thing? Not many of them. So many people were present and very few of their eyes were open. The Bible dictionary tells us "Miracles were and are a response to faith and its best encouragement. They were never wrought without prayer, felt need, and faith." Those people that saw that miracle had the faith to do so. I've attached the Bible video below for this miracle.. I LOVE Bible videos.

http://www.lds.org/bible-videos/videos/jesus-turns-water-into-wine?lang=eng

That's about it from my end; sorry it's so short. I hope you all have a wonderful week. I'll chat with you again soon... P-day will be on Tuesday, now! LOVE YOU!!!!

Sister Wilson

Pics...

1--Inside the Community of Christ Temple. Been 14 months and I just got there...

2--Me and Mary Phillps... She is 92 and got baptized at the beginning of this year-she is great!

3--Me and my stubborn Asian companion

 

 

November 8

Hello! I hope you have all had an absolutely fantastic week! It's finally starting to get cold here in Missouri. We had a great rain storm last week so the leaves are super vibrant right now; lots of colors. I refuse to get out my heavy winter coat, though. Gotta climatize myself so I don't freeze in the next few months.

Sister Weng and I have had a good week. We really don't know a lot of people in the ward so our time has been spent visiting all the members of our roster. It's kind of funny to be on this side of the equation. We've gotten a few members who will ask if we come to visit them because they haven't been at church for a few weeks. Most of them tell us why they haven't been at church. It really makes me laugh; we really are just trying to get to know people in the ward. We have all their names. We don't have faces to go with those names, though. Lesson learned? Be nice to the missionaries when they stop by... maybe they really just don't know who you are.

Greatest moment of the week? Austin got baptized!! Austin is the young single adult I started teaching with Sister Thompson in the Little Blue River Branch. It was so cool! The spirit was really strong at his baptism. Austin is a great guy; I'm grateful I have the opportunity to know him. He's 20 years old and has already served 2 years in the Marines and done just about everything else. He is a great example to me.

Sunday night I had a really cool experience at the Visitor Center. A young woman came in and told us that she was a student at one of the universities in the area. For one of her classes she needed to write a paper on a different culture that she didn't know much about so she came to learn about the Mormon culture. I had the privilege of spending more than an hour with her at the VC teaching her about the doctrine and answering her questions. She left with just about every pamphlet we have available and a Book of Mormon. I got her information to send to the missionaries in her area so they could tell her when her branch would meet and where they would be. I sent her an email the other day-and she wrote back! She is really great and has a lot of potential. I'm grateful for modern technology so that I can email her. Probably the first on-going positive experience I have had with making the referral system at the VC a success.

Tuesday morning we had a specialized mission training. Half of the mission got together to be trained from President Keyes on things that Elder Christofferson had trained him on. It was a great morning. I always feel renewed after big meetings like that. At the same time it is spiritually exhausting. Especially when we got to come back to the VC and study while waiting for guests to come in. I love watching how other missionaries work so my favorite part was a role play the assistants did for us on the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Most of the Elder missionaries are a lot younger than I am but it is so great to see the power of the gospel in them as they teach.

The highlight of my Wednesday was being on shift with Elder and Sister Stevenson. I haven't served with them once this transfer so it was a great day!

Last night we ate dinner with the Rowley family. They have 5 kids that are super cute--and energetic. Four of them are boys and 11 month old is the only girl, Piper. Piper really, really wanted me to pick her up... I really, really wanted to but decided to just get down on the floor, instead, and entertain her that way. Three and a half year old, Kohen, tried multiple times to clime on my shoulders to get a ride... Got creative coming up with all sorts of destractions. Sister Weng was funny. She's always wanted kids but after last night she decided that maybe 2 or 3 would be more than enough. For some reason she could tell that I had worked with kids before. What do you know?! Have 8 crazy nieces and nephews has really paid off! I loved being with the Rowley's last night. Though it might have been a little loud, crazy, and hectic it felt like home. It's what I'm use to; what I love!

And here we are to Friday again. This last few weeks has seriously flown by. Tonight Sister Weng and I are hosting a showing of the Joseph Smith movie at the VC. We've been inviting everyone we know. I let you know how it goes. Next Thursday are transfers--see? Time flies! We will have a p-day on Friday next week, though. I should know by then when a new p-day will be; I'm NOT going to have Friday again. Friday is a stinky p-day. I think that's about all the excitement from here for today. Remember, I love you all! I'm grateful to be a missionary. Grateful for your love and support. Grateful for the prayers you send up in my behalf. I know I am doing what my Heavenly Father wants me to do. I know this gospel is true and that it leads and guides each of us every day. Stay strong. Be courageous. Share the gospel.

LOVE YOU!!

Sister Wilson

Pics...

1--Me, S. Thompson, Austin, S. Liu

2--Say what?

 

 

November 1

Hello family! Have I told you lately how fantastic you all are?! Seriously! I love each one of you a ton and am grateful for all you do to support me. You are great! Well, what happened this week...

Saturday... Danyell got baptized! It was so great! It was slightly stressful that she didn't show up until 9am... right when it was suppose to start; and President was there. But everything turned out well. She had a ton of family and ward support. I am so grateful I have the opportunity to know and work with her. All of us Sisters that had the opportunity to teach her keep telling her that when she and her fiance get sealed we will be there... Even if we have to stand in the back of the sealing room because of all her Polynesian family.

Sunday is still my favorite day ever. I love being at church. I love getting to know the people in the Lee's Summit 2nd area. It's all just so great! We had dinner with the Jeppson family. They like critters. I had the opportunity to hold a snake or 2 but passed it up. One day I might get brave enough to send you a picture... but probably not.

Monday was great but uneventful. Tuesday I got to go on exchanges to Fleming Park. I loved being back there; I know that place like the back of my hand. I had to work hard to make sure we didn't plan to just go see a bunch of the people that I wanted to see. Had to make it a productive day. Sister Liu and I experienced my worst door approach ever. I won't go into detail but suffice it to say... The man wasn't happy to see us. I was grateful to be there for a day but also thankful to be back at the VC and my house, too. Heavenly Father knew Sister Thompson and I needed to separate slowly; I LOVE THAT GIRL! Just so you are all aware, I've officially adopted her into our family. I can't wait for you all to meet her.

Wednesday we had district meeting. I got to give a training on effective study. I've never given a training before. I enjoyed it. Hope I was able to teach them something. I thought it was kind of a funny topic for me. Pre-mission I was awful at studying! I have definitely grown up here in Missouri and become more matures. (HA!) In all seriousness, though, I really have grown a lot. I know what the gospel can do for me and how I need to utilize the Holy Ghost to help me out. I know the structure missionaries live by is inspired and is there to help us learn to become better; and to learn obedience. I won't follow it when I get it home exactly like I am now but I will adopt some of the principles I have learned to my every day life.

Halloween wasn't super eventful; we weren't suppose to be out. We had dinner with the Tonga family. Their kids didn't want to eat because they were going to get candy. We had a lot of pumpkin stuff. Apples are in season, too, so we are getting a lot of those. Last Friday we carved pumpkins. That's about the extent of our celebration... For which I'm grateful. I still don't like Halloween.

Goodness my week sounds really boring. It's not, though, I promise. Time is continuing to fly by. Sister Weng and I are working hard to get to know our area. Our area (Lee's Summit 2nd Ward) begins a half hour away from the VC so we spend a lot of time driving. We don't have a lot of time to find new people to teach, we really rely on the ward members to help us out. Members are extremely important! I really didn't understand that before my mission. It's a great area. I love being here. I love being at the VC. I love serving with the Sisters. I love serving with the Senior couples. I love that I am still in the same zone/stake. I love being a missionary. I am so grateful I chose to serve. I love you all! Have a great week!

Love,
Sister Wilson

1--Pumpkin Carving

2--Danyell's Baptism

 

 

Oct ober 25

Hello! I hope you have all had a fantastic week! It looks like you caused lots of havoc and made a huge mess at the house... Hopefully you went back to help clean up? Bet Mark was in heaven with that cherry picker? It's been a crazy week here in the M.I.M. So much has gone on!

Saturday was super stressful. After our morning shift we made drastic changes in our schedule to go to a baptism with an investigator who is getting baptized tomorrow. It's been a bit of a mess trying to figure it all out. She lives in our stake but is in a different ward but is going to a completely different ward/stake where her fiance is. We had arrangements all made to have her baptism in the Independence Stake; she would just have to have her baptism attached to someone elses. Well, she decided she didn't want that... I can't blame her. Through a series of events she is being baptized into the Warrensburg stake in a completely different ward. It's really crazy and was super stressful. Saturday night we probably spent 3 hours on the phone with President Keyes and other ward leaders trying to figure it all out. It has all worked, though. Danyell is getting baptized tomorrow morning at 9am. She's super excited and we are excited for her. Danyell is great! I will have to send more pictures.

Sunday we spent a lot of time driving. It takes about half an hour to get to our area/church. We went there first thing in the morning, then had to come back to Danyell's ward to make sure she knows people there. We went back to our area for an appointment (that ended up cancelling) then came back to be on shift at the visitor center. We used lots of miles. It's weird to worry about miles and not gas. One of the senior sisters was telling us that gas prices were down at a certain gas station. I just kind of looked at her and said... It's been a while since I worried about gas prices; now I just worry about miles!

Monday we spent some time taking Sister Weng to the doctor. The Missouri weather doesn't agree with her. Thankfully, it's just allergies but it could go to a sinus infection if not treated. She seems to be feeling better; she's got a lot more sass. Did you that Asians are extremely stubborn and have a lot of sass? It's true. I was going to be good and try to refrain from sassing too much because I wasn't sure if Sister Weng would get it. Bad idea! She understands it very well and can dish out more than she can get! Our dinner appointment Monday night forgot we were coming over but hurridely put together Mac&Cheese and hot dogs for us. I was glad I liked hot dogs; Sister Weng wasn't too impressed.

Tuesday we had interviews with President and Sister Keyes. They are SO great! I am so blessed to be able to serve under them. They are fantastic people for which I am so grateful. I can't help but feel better about myself after being with the two of them. Danyell had her baptism interview Tuesday night. She nailed it! She must've been taught by amazing teachers. (Keep in mind I've only known her for like 2 weeks so I'm not talking about myself...)

Wednesday all our appointments cancelled. Thank goodness we are efficient planners and had lots to do. All of the Sisters at the VC, who hadn't already been, went on a field trip to Adam-ondi-Ahman and Far West. I went last year so got to stay at the VC with the other Sisters this time. Sister Pyne called it Veterans Day at the VC. It's really weird to be a veteran. Thursday night we had Bible Study. Sister Smith and Sister Moon started a Bible Study at the beginnig of the summer. Last night, we had 3 nonmembers come. It was so great! We are studying the life of Jesus Christ. I'm really learning a lot. It's great to be able to talk through the Bible with other members.

And... here we are... yep. Another week gone by. It went by crazy fast. I know it doesn't seem like much but it was kind of stressful and we didn't have much time in our area. It was good, though. I'm learning to love this area...and the few people I know so far. I stil love being a missionary. I love sharing the gospel with those around me. I love each of you and am so grateful for your continued love and support. I hope you all have a great week and have fun sharing the gospel with those around you. You are all so great! Seriously, I love you a ton and am so grateful for each of you. I LOVE YOU!

Sister Wilson

Pictures...

1--Veterans Day at the VC! (S. Lettig, S. Altier, S. Grange, me, S. Wilson, S. Erikson) Sister Erikson isn't really a veteran. That's why she's sitting on the floor.

2--Me and Sister Pyne; we have amazing senior couples!

October 18

Hello, to my favorite family!!! I hope you have all had a fantastic week! Tell you what, having Friday p-day is certainly throwing me off. I don't think I really like it... Thank goodness I'll only have to worry about it this transfer... Gonna make sure I don't get it again. What a week it has been! I feel like there is so much to tell you... but probably there really isn't. Looking back, the week went super fast but each day leading up to p-day was REALLY long. Yesterday, especially. It was a slow morning at the VC and time seemed to crawl. So... What happened this week?

Last Friday we spent an enjoyable day doing not much of anything. It was so great. We had about 5 hours to sit around the house; that hasn't happened for a long time. My absolutely favorite thing to do on p-day is wear sweat pants and sit on the couch; possibly write letters. I haven't really seen many of the sites in the area so we'll have to come back one day and see them all together.

Saturday we had a cool experience at the VC. It started with a family of 3 wandering in who spoke Chinese. Thank goodness we have Sister Weng who could give them a tour in their native language! It was so cool! Sister Weng had been here for about 4 days and got to put her skills to use. Shortly after that a group of 4 came in from Australia; I had the opportunity to take them on a presentation. They had been to General Conference and were now visiting some of the sites before going home. Come to find out one of the men in the group had just been called as the temple president for the Brisbane, Australia Temple. I never would have quessed it; guess I need to meet more temple presidents. I enjoyed being with them; they were a lot of fun. Right after that group left an unexpected bus tour of 25 Japenese guests came in. Fortunately they brought their own interpreter. My favorite part of that group was at the very end of their presentation. It is tradition for the Sisters to gather at the Christus and sing to our guests. We sang "I Need Thee Every Hour" for them. We were going to disperse and let them get back to their tour but they wanted to sing the same song for us in their own language. The spirit was so strong! It was a great testimony to me to know that the gospel is the same all over the world, that the spirit works in the same ways no matter what language we speak. It was such a crazy day at the visitor center. Truly a day where the world came to us.

Sunday was another great day. I finally got to go to my new ward... It's a whole lot smaller than I am use to. Lot's of work to do; I'm excited to get to know everyone. Sunday evening the VC closed early so we could all caravan up to Liberty for the 50th Celebration of the Historic Liberty Jail. Elder Ballard came and spoke; as did President Keyes, a church historian, and a member of the Seventy. The Church News was there, too, so when that paper comes out keep a copy for me please! I was grateful for the things that were shared and the reminders that were given. Elder Ballard gave a different version of his general conference talk. As Sisters, we got to perform the special musical number. It came together really well... considering a lot of us only had one week notice that we would be singing at this event. My favorite part was the reminder that the work of salvation is hastening; that we all need to hurry to spread the gospel.

Monday should have been p-day but it wasn't so we visited Brenda. She's a really sweet lady that has been investigating the church for a long time. I was able to connect with her right away because she has a grandson with autism. He's super cute. I'm hoping that connection will help her to progress a bit faster. Tuesday we met with Danyell. Danyell is scheduled to be baptized next week. She is so great. I am amazed by her faith and her willingness to change her life for what she knows will be better for her. Wednesday morning we had zone training. It's really weird to be in the same stake, the same zone but be in a totally different ward. I love zone training. Not only did we get spiritually fed and uplifted but I also got to see Sister Thompson!!! (LOVE that Sister!) We spent what little time we had left visiting with Mary Phillips. Mary is 92, was baptized in February, and lives in a nursing home. She is probably the sweetest person I know; one can't help but love her. As I already mentioned, Thursday was super long. We did get to meet with Lance (another recent convert) and read 1 Nephi 16 with him. This is the first time I had met him but Sister Smith said that it was the best lesson they have had with him where he understood the things we were reading with him. I thought it was great but I didn't know any better.

And there is my week! So... General conference. Ready for this? My favorite promise was left by Elder Holland.

"I testify of the holy Resurrection, that unspeakable cornerstone gift in the Atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ! With the Apostle Paul, I testify that that which was sown in corruption will one day be raised in incorruption and that which was sown in weakness will ultimately be raised in power.¹¹ I bear witness of that day when loved ones whom we knew to have disabilities in mortality will stand before us glorified and grand, breathtakingly perfect in body and mind. What a thrilling moment that will be! I do not know whether we will be happier for ourselves that we have witnessed such a miracle or happier for them that they are fully perfect and finally “free at last.”¹² Until that hour when Christ’s consummate gift is evident to us all, may we live by faith, hold fast to hope, and show “compassion one of another,”¹³ I pray, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen."

I have lots of favorite talks. President Eyrings about the choices we make. Elder Oaks about our priorities in life. Richard Maynes about developing spiritual strength. All of these touched me personally. The one that hit home to me as a missionary, that I was absolutely horrible about before my mission, was Elder Ballard's. I am attaching a link for his talk. I challenge each of you to watch it again. The work of our Savior is hastening. We should all be anxiously engaged in spreading forth the gospel. As a missionary I can testify to how hard it is to find people to teach without member help and support. Every person that I have the opportunity to be involved in their conversion process has been introduced to missionaries by member friends. If nothing else my mission has taught me how to be a better member missionary. How to be bold in spreading forth the gospel. How to spread the love of our Savior. I heard a quote this week from Elder Holland. It basically said that "missionary work is not easy because salvation is not easy." Being a missionary is hard. At times it downright stinks. But it is definitely worth it. (D&C 18:14-18). I challenged each of you to watch/listen to Elder Ballard's talk again. Did you pick on the challenge he left to each of us? Will each of you take the time to help one of our Heavenly Father's children to feel of God's love? Will you pray for opportunities to share the gospel and act on the promptings you will receive? Will you give the Savior a gift for Christmas? I know that by doing these things that we will be greatly blessed. Just like we are promised in Doctrine & Covenants. The work of salvation is hastening. We are all needed to help in this work. Our Heavenly Father needs us to "thrust in our sickles," to help with the harvest.

I love you each so much! I am so grateful to be a missionary. I know I am doing exactly what Heavenly Father needs me to do. I know I am learning how to be a better missionary so I can help the work to progress in whatever capacity I serve. I know this gospel is true and I know our Heavenly loves each one of us. He is very aware of and has a plan all prepared for you. I love you. God loves you. Stay strong; be courageous; share the gospel.

Love,

Sister Wilson

1--On our way to hear Elder Ballard

2--Sisters in the KCMOZO! (S. Weng, me, S. Thompson, S. Liu, S. Smith)

3--Sisters at the VC this transfer

 

October 11 - Part 2!

Okay... So I neglected to talk about conference. Which was AMAZING!! I'd like to try something just to see what kind of responses I get... Will you let me know what your favorite conference talk was and why in your emails this week? I really want to get your feedback before I give you mine. I loved seeing a family choir from home!!! Sister Smith and I loved picking out people we knew.

Also, this week is the 50th anniversary celebration for the Liberty Jail. On Sunday there is a big fireside that Elder Ballard is coming to. As VC Sisters we get to sing at it. It may or may not be online.... A rumor going around that I can't verify one way or the other.

Life is great! I'm doing fantastic! LOVE YOU!

Sister Wilson

October 11

Oh, my goodness!!!! It has been way too long since a p-day! Because of transfers my p-day was thrown off. Obviously, pday is on Friday now. And guess who my companions are?! 

Sister Smith and Sister Weng!!! It's a crazy small world we live in! I am serving in the Lee's Summit 2nd Ward with these lovely sisters; it is a visitor center area. I was really shocked when I got the call. I knew I was going to be transferred because Sister Thompson was going to be training. When I was transferred to a different ward in the same stake I was surprised. And even more surprised to be companions with Sister Smith! To be in the same mission is crazy. To be companions is a miracle. It's really hard to call her Sister Smith. And Sister Weng is great! I don't know if you remember her? She is from Taiwan; we came out together. She has been serving on Temple Square for the last few months. She is our dear sister that had appendicitis in March. She's doing much better.

Okay... So what has happened in 11 days? (Have I mentioned that 11 days is way too long without a pday?) I love being back at the visitor center but REALLY miss Sister Thompson. I learned a lot from her and have come to love her like family. We're still in the same zone so I get to see and talk with her still. She'll be a great trainer to Sister Liu.

I haven't had a chance to meet many ward members. Between general conference and our VC schedule our time in the area is limited. We had a crazy experience on Monday night. We had an appointment lined up with Danyell (whom I had never met) for 7:00pm at her house. A few hours before the appointment she asked if we could move the appointment to 7:30 at the VC. That was fine with us and worked well for our schedule. We went to dinner and when we came out we had a voice mail from President Keyes. We thought for sure he was going to tell us when S. Weng would be arriving from SLC. NOPE!! He had heard that we had a lesson that night (less than an hour away at this point) and wanted to know if he could come and be a team up for us. WHAT?! I thought it was really cool and looked forward to the experience. President Keyes is great! You don't really say no to President so we agreed then stressed out on our drive to the appointment. The lesson went really well; Danyell set a firm baptismal date for 26 October. President Keyes really helped Danyell's fiance, Jack, so is a less active member who is trying to return to the gospel. President stayed after for a few minutes to talk with Jack. It went great! Later that night President called us to let us know how well we had done and to reassure us that he hadn't been there to evaluate our teaching but to see what missionaries were up against; to help him be a better mission president. He also let us know that he had never been at a lesson that he was SUPPOSE to be at. Only our Heavenly Father could have made that lesson happen the way it did. We were not suppose to meet at the visitor center. Jack was not suppose to be there. God worked it all out. And President was not there for Danyell, our investigator, but for Jack. Jack needed his words of wisdom and advice on what he needed to do to begin the process of returning to the gospel. The experience really strengthened my testimony of our Heavenly Father knowing exactly where we are, what we are doing and what we need. HE KNOWS US! He loves us and will always help to get to where we need to be.

You would think after 11 days I would have more to write! I loved the experience I had in Fleming Park. I LOVE the ward and the people I met there. I love serving with Sister Thompson. I love the Blue Springs area. But I also love the visitor center and am grateful for a new experience. I look forward to working with S. Smith and S. Weng. I look forward to being in the Lee's Summit 2nd Ward; I hear great things about it. I'm grateful to be a missionary at this time and in this place. I know my Heavenly Father needs me here.

I love you all so much and am grateful for the emails I received this week. You are all in my thoughts and my prayers constantly. LOVE YOU TONS!!!!
Sister Wilson

September 30

Another week come and gone! And what a fantastic week it has been! Everything seems like it happened an eternity ago but at the same time... not. Time is so weird! Transfers are on Thursday this week. Sister Thompson was called as a trainer so it's most likely that I will be moved. I don't know when my next p-day will be.

Tuesday we had our zone conference. It was really great. They just came out with a new book "Adjusting to Missionary Life." Wish I'd had that about a year ago. It's a great resource, though, and I'm glad they've got it. I was refreshed and renewed and slightly rebuked at zone conference. It was a great meeting, though. Kind of weird to have only 2 zone's there. Before the mission split we had at least 3.

Wednesday Sister Thompson and I had the opportunity to go to the temple. I really needed that. They just changed our temple attendance policy so we can go once a quarter now; and participate in baptisms. We went through a session. If you haven't been since the temple was cleaned---GO NOW! It's a great place to receive revelation and be reminded of our Heavenly Father's love.

We had a slow week as far as lessons went but.... THE CURLESS FAMILY GOT BAPTIZED!! Saturday night after the relief society broadcast. Long story short, that was the only time we could have it. The baptism started at 8:30 and didn't get over until shortly after 9:30. President Keyes was there with about 10 missionaries all out past curfew. As soon as it was done he was rounding us up and herding us out the door. The spirit at the baptism was so strong. Jay, Becky, and Joanna, are all now members of the church. We had a great turn out. Lot's of support. The missionaries sang "I Feel my Savior's Love." It was fantastic. They all got confirmed on Sunday. AND Jacob received the Priesthood. It was a fantastic way to have the last Sunday of a transfer.

I've been thinking a lot lately about God's love. How we all start at the same place (pre-earth life) and hope to end in the same place (exaltation). But we don't just go from point A to B. We go from A to V to E to R, etc. all the way through the alphabet and possibly make it through a few times before getting where we need to be. This shows me how much God loves me because He is aware of each of us and is helping us along our individual paths. We each have our own IEP's, so to speak. I am so grateful for God's love!!! He loves me. He loves you. He knows each of us individually. He is aware of us and wants to help us on our paths in life. Let Him help you. Let Him lift your burdens. This gospel is true; embrace it! Be strong. Be courageous. Share the gospel.

I love you all!!!

Sister Wilson

1--The Curless Family (Jay, JB, Joanna, Becky, and Jacob)

2--At the temple!

3--Everyone!