Re: Letter from Connecticut

Hi Erin,

 

It's been an interesting week.  Kirstin got an infection from nursing the baby so I was up there for a day to rescue her.  She was miserable and had a high fever.  I called the doctor for some antibiotics but by the time Philip came home from school Costco was closed.  I felt really really bad and thought I should of gotten it myself.  So I would wake up in the middle of the night and pray that she was OK.  In the morning her fever was gone and she was doing much better.  So she didn't need the antibiotics. She was glad not to have to spend the money.

 

Then Ammon came down with the stomach flu and was home for three days.  He had a fever and headache so you can imagine how I watched him.  We kept taking his temperature every 15 minutes or so.  But he is fine now.

 

I am not sure about the absentee ballot.  I actually need to get a Utah driver's license in order to vote and I don't know if that is going to happen before the elections.  I don't know what to do in your case...or about the driver's license. They  probably could send our ballot to our new address but the time might be expired by the time they send it by November and we are not down there to vote.  There are a few kinks in this moving thing. Daniel's driver's license actually has Pam and Guy Delouras address on it because we weren't sure where we would end up. I don't think there is much you can do about it right now. I should remind him to get an absentee ballot if he can. I will see if I can find any solutions. 

 

I also checked your bank balance.  It's a good thing I did because there was only $13.00 left on it.  So we put another $200.00 on your ATM card. 

 

Everybody here is having to learn patience.  Rachelle is learning patience with Ammon.  Ammon is learning patience with Rachelle.  And we are having to learn patience with ourselves.  Daniel is the ward bulletine coordinator and says he is doing pretty well cleaning the buildings at 4:00 am. 

 

Dad will be traveling a bit in September and November. 

 

I hope you had a good week.  Jarom and Tayler are still at Grandma/pa Prices while they wait to see if they get a condo that they put a bid on.  It may not happen though.  We will see.  Nathan and Colleen are fine too.  Marisa probably told you she has a date tomorrow.

 

It's time to get Ammon to bed.  I love you mucho!

 

You're doing a terrific job!

 

Love, Mom

 

 

On Wed, Sep 10, 2008 at 9:03 PM, Rahn and Sue Price <rahnandsue@gmail.com> wrote:

Hey Family,

So glad to hear you are doing well. It's a big joke here about how my family moved to Utah. Everybody is saying things like, "Why would they move to Utah. San Diego is so beautiful. It has the best weather in the world." San Diego to New Yorkens and Connecticutians is like New York to us. But I'm really excited for you all and excited to (one day in the far future) come home to the new Utah place. Change is always exciting.

So first, what I've learned from my studies this week. Patience just doesn't deal with others. Patience deals with the Lord too. We are patient in our lives when we can face challenges and trials without getting angry, frustrated, or anxious. Why is patience such a great thing to have? It makes your life so much more relaxed! You can be sure that the Lord is in control and that you just need to rely on the his timing. Sometimes I used to think that trials came because I was doing something wrong and if I just fixed that one thing my life, everything would be better. But many times we just need to know that the Lord is in control and knows how much we can handle. That if you just work to do our part, being patient with ourselves, that the Lord can handle the rest! Hopefully that made sense. Patience is such a cool thing.

So now the down-low on everything else.

We had Mission Conference yesterday. It was all about temples and the importance of them. Really good. I learned some amazing things, probably not what I will teach investigators, but my understanding of the temple increased. It's funny because just at the times I think that I"m getting this whole missionary thing down, something comes up and I realize how much I don't know! It is sometimes frustrating, but I try to let it motivate me to study more. We also had water games that day for the second half instead of a training. Probably to boost morale and unity. It was really fun and a good break.

Blessing for the week. Maybe you remember Maria and Jairo who we were teaching. Well, they weren't coming to church despite inviting them every week and every week they would say that they would come and then they wouldn't. It was a hard decision, but we decided to stop visiting them for awhile and because they have so many problems going on at home they told us that they would call us when things were better. So for about two weeks we didn't go by, though we left notes here and there.

One night we decided to visit them again, and when we went in it was really awkward. Maria almost seemed mad at us at first. She later asked us why we had stopped coming and to not do that again. Both Maria and Jairo said it was a bad decision to have us stop coming. So we scheduled another appointment with them and extended a baptismal date, which they accepted! It won't be until December though because Maria has to get over an addiction to drugs. But they have that goal and are working for the 6th of December. I don't know if I'll be there for that, but I'm just glad that they are working for that.

Mirian, has been another story. She loves church and she loves the things we teach, but she won't accept a date. She keeps saying that she needs more time. We've extended about three different dates to her and each time she say she needs more time. We finally asked her how long she felt that she needed to which she responded "At least 6 months." 6 months! That is so far away. Our plan is to  teach her everything to be ready, which will be another 3 weeks and then tell her  that she's ready. That we have nothing more to teach. I believe it will shock her and prepare her better for baptism. She's just comfortable where she is at, with us stopping by and learning more. She's another one I just love so much and needs to be baptized. They just don't understand how important it is.

The first presidency has encouraged us to vote this year for elections. I tried looking into absentee ballots before I left, but it was a confusing thing trying to register that early and I wasn't able to figure it out before I left. Do you know what the process would be for me to get an absentee ballot. I don't know how that would work with the move. Am I still registered for California. That's where my driver's license is at.... by the way... do I need to different driver's license because technically I'm  not from the Santee address any more. Please let me know.

So this cycle I'm really focusing on increasing my understanding in spanish. Dad, Nathan, Jarom or any others who have learned a different language. Do you have any suggestions on what helped you during this whole language learning process. Sometimes I think my studying of the language is so scattered that I don't really get anything from it. I thought it might be helpful if you were able to send me some talks in Spanish on a cd. Or any other suggestions would be helpful. I used to think that it would just come. As many people said, "It just takes time." Well, yes, that's true, but I think I can help it along faster with some good suggestions from other people. Please let me know for that as well.

This is becoming an epistle. Sorry, I'll try to cut the other stories shorter. It rained yesterday like none other. Thunder, down-pour, and all. I of course used my handy-dandy rain jacket.

We had a zone activity today. A picnic and I was able to play volleyball again after almost of year of withdrawal. It was lots of fun.

Last Sunday, Sis. Pena and I were in charge of the game for the ward Noche de Hogar (Spanish Family Home Evening). We divided everyone into groups, had them write down three things that would be embarrassing to do and then asked them questions. If they got the question wrong, they had to do the embarrasing thing. If they got it right, they picked another team to do the embarrassing thing. It turned out well. It was a little frustrating though because I would explain something and everyone would be like, "Huh, I don't get it." So then Sis. Pena would explain it saying the exact same thing and everyone was like, "Oh I understand." Maybe I should work on my accent.

We taught a member in our ward the Plan of Salvation to practice and to have her hear the lessons again since she is a fairly recent convert. She started getting into deep doctrine. Like whether they was another way for us instead of Adam and Eve eating the forbidden fruit.

She's funny. She's also redoing her house in the "California style" and keeps asking my opinion. "Does this look good? Does this give a California feel? I want it to be a California eclectic look." I don't even know what a CA eclectic look is. Oh well. We love Mary Kay.

Love you family and am always happy to hear from you. Thanks for the letter Ammon. Glad school is fun. Love you lots. Have a great time.

Love,
Erin

Letter from Connecticut

Hey Family,

So glad to hear you are doing well. It's a big joke here about how my family moved to Utah. Everybody is saying things like, "Why would they move to Utah. San Diego is so beautiful. It has the best weather in the world." San Diego to New Yorkens and Connecticutians is like New York to us. But I'm really excited for you all and excited to (one day in the far future) come home to the new Utah place. Change is always exciting.

So first, what I've learned from my studies this week. Patience just doesn't deal with others. Patience deals with the Lord too. We are patient in our lives when we can face challenges and trials without getting angry, frustrated, or anxious. Why is patience such a great thing to have? It makes your life so much more relaxed! You can be sure that the Lord is in control and that you just need to rely on the his timing. Sometimes I used to think that trials came because I was doing something wrong and if I just fixed that one thing my life, everything would be better. But many times we just need to know that the Lord is in control and knows how much we can handle. That if you just work to do our part, being patient with ourselves, that the Lord can handle the rest! Hopefully that made sense. Patience is such a cool thing.

So now the down-low on everything else.

We had Mission Conference yesterday. It was all about temples and the importance of them. Really good. I learned some amazing things, probably not what I will teach investigators, but my understanding of the temple increased. It's funny because just at the times I think that I"m getting this whole missionary thing down, something comes up and I realize how much I don't know! It is sometimes frustrating, but I try to let it motivate me to study more. We also had water games that day for the second half instead of a training. Probably to boost morale and unity. It was really fun and a good break.

Blessing for the week. Maybe you remember Maria and Jairo who we were teaching. Well, they weren't coming to church despite inviting them every week and every week they would say that they would come and then they wouldn't. It was a hard decision, but we decided to stop visiting them for awhile and because they have so many problems going on at home they told us that they would call us when things were better. So for about two weeks we didn't go by, though we left notes here and there.

One night we decided to visit them again, and when we went in it was really awkward. Maria almost seemed mad at us at first. She later asked us why we had stopped coming and to not do that again. Both Maria and Jairo said it was a bad decision to have us stop coming. So we scheduled another appointment with them and extended a baptismal date, which they accepted! It won't be until December though because Maria has to get over an addiction to drugs. But they have that goal and are working for the 6th of December. I don't know if I'll be there for that, but I'm just glad that they are working for that.

Mirian, has been another story. She loves church and she loves the things we teach, but she won't accept a date. She keeps saying that she needs more time. We've extended about three different dates to her and each time she say she needs more time. We finally asked her how long she felt that she needed to which she responded "At least 6 months." 6 months! That is so far away. Our plan is to  teach her everything to be ready, which will be another 3 weeks and then tell her  that she's ready. That we have nothing more to teach. I believe it will shock her and prepare her better for baptism. She's just comfortable where she is at, with us stopping by and learning more. She's another one I just love so much and needs to be baptized. They just don't understand how important it is.

The first presidency has encouraged us to vote this year for elections. I tried looking into absentee ballots before I left, but it was a confusing thing trying to register that early and I wasn't able to figure it out before I left. Do you know what the process would be for me to get an absentee ballot. I don't know how that would work with the move. Am I still registered for California. That's where my driver's license is at.... by the way... do I need to different driver's license because technically I'm  not from the Santee address any more. Please let me know.

So this cycle I'm really focusing on increasing my understanding in spanish. Dad, Nathan, Jarom or any others who have learned a different language. Do you have any suggestions on what helped you during this whole language learning process. Sometimes I think my studying of the language is so scattered that I don't really get anything from it. I thought it might be helpful if you were able to send me some talks in Spanish on a cd. Or any other suggestions would be helpful. I used to think that it would just come. As many people said, "It just takes time." Well, yes, that's true, but I think I can help it along faster with some good suggestions from other people. Please let me know for that as well.

This is becoming an epistle. Sorry, I'll try to cut the other stories shorter. It rained yesterday like none other. Thunder, down-pour, and all. I of course used my handy-dandy rain jacket.

We had a zone activity today. A picnic and I was able to play volleyball again after almost of year of withdrawal. It was lots of fun.

Last Sunday, Sis. Pena and I were in charge of the game for the ward Noche de Hogar (Spanish Family Home Evening). We divided everyone into groups, had them write down three things that would be embarrassing to do and then asked them questions. If they got the question wrong, they had to do the embarrasing thing. If they got it right, they picked another team to do the embarrassing thing. It turned out well. It was a little frustrating though because I would explain something and everyone would be like, "Huh, I don't get it." So then Sis. Pena would explain it saying the exact same thing and everyone was like, "Oh I understand." Maybe I should work on my accent.

We taught a member in our ward the Plan of Salvation to practice and to have her hear the lessons again since she is a fairly recent convert. She started getting into deep doctrine. Like whether they was another way for us instead of Adam and Eve eating the forbidden fruit.

She's funny. She's also redoing her house in the "California style" and keeps asking my opinion. "Does this look good? Does this give a California feel? I want it to be a California eclectic look." I don't even know what a CA eclectic look is. Oh well. We love Mary Kay.

Love you family and am always happy to hear from you. Thanks for the letter Ammon. Glad school is fun. Love you lots. Have a great time.

Love,
Erin

Oh what fun!

Dear Family,

I wrote down a whole list of things I wanted to tell you about and being like I am sometimes, I left it on the table.... Hopefully I can remember it all.

We did get permission to teach the Muslim lady, but after a few lessons we haven't been able to contact her. We are not sure what happen, but we have a few guesses. One is that she has a Christian cousin that she talks to a lot and when she called us last she said that her cousin told her not to read the Book of Mormon and doesn't think she should learn about Joseph Smith. We are going to try her again today. Hopefully we can get a hold of her.

We recently had to drop all, but one of our investigators. It seems so discouraging at times. The goal for the mission is to get 80 baptisms in September with every companionship baptizing. At this point, Sis. Pena and I are looking for miracles because the person would have to be super prepared, but it could happen! Miracles happen everyday.

We did find a person the other day. Her name is Betsy and she struggles with depression. She was at first really resistant for us to come in, but finally let us in. We'll be following up with her tonight. Also have another appointment on Saturday with another potential named Wendy. I'm really excited for her because when I talked to her on the phone she was already saying things like, "Rules are there to help. That's what I've learned in my life and I don't see why every else has it the opposite way." It will be good.

One of the things I've realized recently is how much I've grown to love the people here. For example, we taught a lesson to this retired man named William about a month ago. After one lesson we werent' able to make contact through phone or visits and the other day I felt like we should go by and see him. So we did and he was home. He was telling us about how it's been there in the back of his mind. The analogy he used was that he was standing there on the diving board, not sure if he is ready to jump in. He believes in the apostasy and see the need for the restoration. He really finds the Book of Mormon interesting as well as Joseph Smith. He just needs to take that leap of faith, and it kills me that he doesn't.

And same for all the other investigators that we have recently stopped visiting because they won't do what needs to be done to prepare for baptism. Maria and Jairo who have eveything to gain from the gospel. Even people we meet on the street I'm starting to feel that love for them too. It's amazing and heart breaking at the same time.

I see people and I think. I want to see you one day in the celestial kingdom. I don't want you to be missing there. How great a reunion it will be to see these people again. The scripture in D&C 18 has taken on greater significance. How great will be your joy if it so be that ye bring one soul unto Christ. And then how much greater will be your joy if you bring even more souls unto Christ. Joy comes from serving others as you desire to see them succeed and able to know that that soul was not lost. I might sound very much like a missionary right now, but that's ok. I love it! Even with all the discouragements. I keep praying that my love with increase even more for these people.

But we do still have Mirian. She hasn't accepted a baptismal date yet, but I don't feel like we should drop her. We are trying to build her faith. She doesn't want to start something she won't finish and she has fears in that. The other day we went to a dinner appointment at the Baltazar family's home and she asked us about tithing! And she was fine with it, which is one lots of people struggle with. She even told us on Sunday that she decided not to go to a Saturday activity at the church, so that she could go on Sunday. She's another one that I just want so badly to be baptized because I want to see her again someday in the Celestial Kingdom.

Oh man. I could go on and on with all the people and yet still trying to get that baptism.

But we had a great Sisters training on Tuesday about baptismal commits and practice extending dates.

Oh, we heart attacked some member's house the other night.... it's so much fun and it never gets old. I'm glad I'm a sister missionary and can do those kinds of things.

Love you lots and hope you are well. Sounds like it. Thanks for keeping in touch so well.

Love,
Erin

Still here in CT

Oh Family,

Let's see what I can remember from this week. One week just seems
to blur in the other and time is getting faster. I'm finding it
true that your mission just seems to go by faster and faster. It's
almost September and school has started again! I remember when
school got out. The weather has cooled off a bit, but it's not
cold. Today it actually reminded me of San Diego when you have the
cool breeze coming in from the Ocean. Unfortunately it smelled
like car exhaust instead of the ocean. Well, I guess you can't get
it all in Stamford, CT.

We are still working for some solid people to teach. We have a
couple of potentials that we have set appointments with that we
are praying will go through. And we have one solid lady, Mirian,
but at this point doesn't want a baptismal date. I have
confidence, though, that that will come soon enough. She comes to
church (even without her husband), is praying, and starting
reading the Book of Mormon from the cover! We will be teaching her
some of the commandments. It will just take some time. We have a
couple other people this week too. Just hoping that all goes
well.

I'm still learning how to recognize that spirit. Sometimes it just
comes as a thought, a light bulb. I becoming more and more
convinced that whenever we have those lightbulb ideas it is
because the spirit brought it to mind. For example, Sis. Pena and
I were walking down N. Water street to look up a referral when we
passed a house. The thought crossed my mind, I should knock on
that door... so we did. But nobody answered. "So much for
inspiration," I thought. Then, the next day we planned to look up
a former investigator and as we drove up to the address it turned
out to be the one I had knocked on the day before. Coincidence...
I don't think so. Today we knocked and talked to this lady who is
a friend of the former investigators and have a return appointment
with her. We are excited for it!

My spanish seems to be coming along. At times I don't feel like
it's any better than when I started, but then I think... "well, I
can now talk on the phone and know what they are saying, if not
always in the appointment." It's been really good. Not what I
expected it to be like, but really good.

Where is Daniel living. There are a lot of youth that are headed
out to BYU-Idaho. Maybe they will be living at the same place. Let
me know.

Love you lots and I pray for you. Sometimes it seems unreal
because I'm so far away from it all, but it's very exciting at the
same time. So much will be different when I come home, and I'm
sure there are still going to be a lot of changes from this point
on still. I still have awhile left.

Thanks for all your support.

Love,

Erin

Es bueno la obra

Hey Family,

The work is good. It's been a change and I find that amid all the learning and trials that I am learning myself. There are the difficult days, but you have to keep looking up and forward and having the faith that it will get better. Sometimes I start getting discouraged because of spanish, but as Hermana Lakip said, "Siga adelante." Just keep doing my part.

We are still teaching Maria and Jairo. We were so close to stopping our appointments with them because despite their desire, they have not come to church and it's been about 2 months. I think I keep holding on to them because they need to gospel so much. Well, everyone needs the gospel, but I'm afraid their family will fall apart wihout it. I think we've made a breakthrough with them and hopefully this week they will go to the addiction recovery program and church. Otherwise, I'll just have to leave and believe that sometime in the future they will be baptized.

Still I think we talked about both of their concerns. We showed the Restoration to them and Maria told us how she had always had that question too. So we testified that she could know of the truth through prayer by asking specifically and she committed to do that. Jairo just need to know what faith was and how to develop it. So we shared Alma 32 with him. He told us that it made so much more sense what faith was and that he never really understood it before. He was so nice, he even said how he learns so much from us. Well, I would guess that it's the spirit, but I'm so grateful that I grew up in the gospel, learning all these truths since I was young. Thank you Mom and Dad.

We are also teaching Sophia who is from Sudan. It's been an interesting experience because she has no Christian background. I can't remember if I talked about her in the last email, but she learned about Christianity when she was 10 years old and has wanted to be baptized ever since. We gave her a baptismal date for October and we are working towards then. She wanted it earlier, but there is a language barrier as well. So we try to teach as simply as we can. You have to teach really different to those who have no background with Christ.

I'm learning the importance more of more of doing our part by expressing our faith. Believing that good things will happen and then working to have it done. Faith isn't passive, it's working hard even though you probably don't have any idea how the work will come about. How the goals you set will be filled and where you will find that person. It comes from talking to everyone so that you find yourself in the right place and the right time. I am praying to find a family to teach that can be baptized in September. I know there out there. There are hundreds and families, but it's just a matter of finding them and then teaching them by the spirit.

I'm enjoying myself here in Connecticut. I'm learning to love the people and the place. I will miss it when I'm gone. There are some days I look around and think, "Wow, this has gone by so fast. It needs to slow down a little." It's been good. Hard, but good.

I'm glad things are going well in Utah. Thanks for the letters and update and I hope that I'm detailed enough when I write to you about things that are happening. My suggestions for you is to get to know the missionaries, let them know that you are willing to help, and then when they ask to for help, be willing to do so. It's what I wish I had done before my mission, but will certainly do afterwards. I guess it might be a little different in Utah, but develop that working relationship with them. It will move the work faster and farther than it has before.

Ok, off my soapbox. Good luck with school and have fun. Daniel, you are going to love BYU-Idaho. There is so much always going on campus and off. It can be stressful, but it's great. Rachelle and Ammon, I'd love to hear more about school. Sounds like it could be really cool.

Love you Mom, Dad and rest of family. You are amazing and don't lose sight of always sharing the gospel. It brings joy into your life and into the lives of others.

Love,
Erin (aka Sis. Price)

Another week in paradise

Hey Dad, Mom, and Family!

This week has been great. I loved my last companion, but as you know there were the struggles. Hna Pena and I are still learning how to teach together, but it has been good. Tonight we have a great lesson planned for Maria and Jairo about studying the scriptures and praying! I am excited. We had them read 3 Nephi 11 in preparation and we will be following up by seeing what they learned and watching part of the Testaments with them. It's some of the techniques shared in Preach My Gospel. That's such a great book, you really should study from it to!

I was worried about them for awhile because they seemed to stop having interest, they weren't really reading or coming to church or making any sort of effort. But I couldn't drop them yet. Their family would have fallen apart. So we stopped by one night and talked to them. It ended up in an argument and accusations between the two of them. Hna Pena said some inspired thoughts to them (which I can't remember) and before we left I had them each say a pray and in the pray they had to pray for the other companion. I really believe that that was an inspired because the next time we came by they were telling us about what a differenct it had made. How they hadn't fought and that they felt the spirit more in their home. I love the spirit!

As a mission we are focusing on getting 80 baptisms in September. I'm excited for this as well. There has been a lot of focus on spiritually preparing ourselves, so that we can have the spirit to teach others. I'm still learning how to organize all these good trainings and thoughts so that I remember them. I think I've changed my study journal technique nearly 4 times since starting my mission. I'm getting closer to what works for me each time.

Anyway, stories for this week. I ran into a spider web and almost ran into another one. I think that's my fourth time since starting my mission.

We also had a muslim lady come to church. Her name is Sophia and she is really sweet and even told us she wants to be baptized. Unfortunately, we don't know if we can teach her yet. Her family is Muslim, which means we need special permission to teach her. She was telling us about how she had learned about Christ in Sudan and had wanted to know more, but was to scared because her family could kill her for it. She lives with her sister here and she can't let them know that she is going to church. It's so sad that those who have that desire to learn and come unto Christ can't because of the religious/social situations around them. It makes it even more frustrating when those who have the ability to learn don't because of apathy. This is so important! We don't know what will happen, but hope that some way will open that we can teach her without putting her in danger.

I wish I could have been at the wedding, but such is part of life. I haven't seen any pictures of it yet, but maybe Marisa just hasn't caught the time to be able to send them. I'd love to see how the reception went. I'm sure it was lovely. Do you have the address for Jarom and Taylor? I'd love to have it.

I'm 5' 2". I always knew I'd be the shortest in the family. I saw a picture of Rachelle in one you sent of McKeltie. She looked so pretty! You know, not many people can pull such beauty with a mask over their face. She's got talent.

And I remember when I was the oldest at home. It was a little strange at first. I really believed that I learned (even though I didn't really know it) qualities during that time that prepared me for the future. I'll be quite honest, one of my favorite memories was family dishes as we each took our spots (drying, washing, rinsing, etc) and sang and danced to music. We had our arguments then too, but I also loved the bonding. It was great.

I'm excited for this week. I'm rededicationg myself to writing down events so that I'll have more specific stories to tell you. It's been fun and thanks for your letters and support. It always comes at the time I need to most.

I love you lots and glad you've found paradise in Utah. It must be an exciting change.

Love,
Erin

Hola familia

Hello Family,

Well, I'm glad that the invitation was sent at least. I was feeling a little behind. I knew Jarom was getting married this weekend, but I also knew I hadn't received an invitation. I bet it will be fun! I look forward to hearing what happened and seeing some pictures.

I did receive a new companion who is.... Hna Pena. She was my companion in the mtc. She's been down in the Bronx since we came out and is now in her second area, Greenwich, CT. We joked about being companions on the mission, but I never thought that it would happen. It's a definite change for her. Crazy life.

This past week has been pretty good. We had what I called a blessing day. We went tracting and people were nice (and in an English area too!). We even taught a first lesson. And then we went to see some less-actives and they were all home and happy, and well, the day just went well. Which was what we needed because the day before was an adventure.

So, here's what happened. President Searle gave me some Preach My Gospel DVD's so I could practice listening to spanish some more, but we don't have any tv's in our apartment, so we had to use the tv at the church. Our zone leaders came and unlocked the door for us. They did some work there, but eventually had to leave. It was then that we remembered that we had forgotten to ask them something and so chased after them leaving behind all our things in the building. We talked to them for a bit and they drove off. It was then that we realized.... we were locked out of the building! We had no keys, no phone, no umbrellas (oh did I mention that it was pouring rain the day). All I had was my planner and a dvd remote control.

We did the only thing we could, started walking. We were laughing so hard just because of how embarrassed we were. We eventually stopped at a house and asked to use their phone to call the Zone Leaders again. She was a nice-old lady who even drove us back to the church, where we waited in shame for the Elders to arrive to unlock the door. How embarrasing! They drove up laughing at us. Well, at least they weren't angry. It took a couple of days for the embarrassment to wear off and for it to become just another fun mission story.

We had some investigators come to church the other day. Mirian and Manuel. They have accepted a baptismal date for 18 August. We are so excited for them! I have to call and set up another appointment for this week.

Sadly, we have also stopped teaching, for now Maria and Jairo. They haven't been coming to church and are having lots of problems. It's so sad to see them so, especially when I know that the gospel is what will help them. But they are so preoccupied with things going on that they say they can't meet with us now. We stop by every now and then, but only time will tell what will happen.

Happy Birthday Dad! So.... I'm sending a card in the mail to you. Sorry, it's going to be late, but it's a good one. It should be there within the next couple of days. Hope it was fabulous and that the job is working out well.

I love you all and miss you. Keep safe, keep cool.

Love,
Erin

NYC and temple baptisms

Yeah!

That's such exciting news. After I didn't hear anything last week about Kirstin, I kept thinking.... "Goodness, I hope everything is ok." So I prayed for her even more. I'm glad it all went well. The pictures are adorable. Too bad I won't get to meet her for another 9 months or so.

Transfers are next week. We won't find out until Monday what will happen. But things have been going much better. We went to the temple today to do temple baptisms with Jackie. It was her first time since being baptized 2 months ago. She loved it and I took pictures, well of travel, since we had to take the train/subway down and we didn't even get lost, well maybe just a couple wrong turns, but nothing major. I've decided when I get transferred down to the city that it might be a little overwhelming at first, but I'm excited for it.

This week we also had mission conference. It was so good. They are always so inspirational as we try to do better each day. This week they talked a lot about accountability and how we are accountable to the Lord for what we do. Our area has been struggling a bit and I've been praying on what we need to do different. I had the idea... "talk to more people," but then I thought, "That's too simple and I do talk to people." So I kept praying about it... but of course I got nothing new. While at the mission conference, I finally realized that the revelation I needed I had already gotten... I just needed to talk to more people. And so that's what I have been trying to doing. Talking to more people. Today I talked to a lady from Mexico on the subway about families and left her a family proc. I hope she reads it, she was really nice and really sincere. Definitely ready to hear the gospel. She'll be baptized one day (Course, that's what I think of everyone).

We've been trying to get Maria and Jairo to the addiction recovery program, but it's been difficult. They always come up with last minute excuses. So this last Thursday we stopped by there house and they were in the middle of a major cleaning project. But Sis. Lakip was able to convince them that if we helped and got enough done that they would go. In the matter of 45 minutes we put a turned around house back together, had a babysitter for the kids, and had made them dinner. I think the Lord either slowed down the time (I won't kid that I was praying for that) or that he made it so we worked really, really, effeciently. But the went. Unfortunately, they didn't go to church this Sunday. I'm thinking we might have to drive over and have them follow us.... we shall see.

But we did have a couple come to a baptism. Mirian and Manuel came and saw a baptism. We actually met them in a hospital in Stamford while visiting another investigator (they are the in-laws). They are really nice. We extended a baptismal date to Mirian which she accepted, but Manuel wasn't home so we will be talking to them tomorrow. It's so exciting.

So, things are going well. I still have my rough days, but overall it's good.

Hey Dad, that's exciting about your job! Maybe you'll be coming to New York sometime... he he (j/k). The Lord does watch out for us, but he tests are diligence, faith, and patience. Oh man.... it's easy to look back and understand. That's why we write it down so that we can remember those experiences when once again our faith and patience are tried.

So, will you be moving soon? I still need to let the office know about the move in case they need to get a hold of you. I think they still have you on file as living in California... which I know that you aren't any more. And even more crucial... I can't mail you any letters! I had to send one to Kirstin. Hopefully she got it and sent it to you, but I'm sure things are pretty crazy around her house right now with McKeltie. Can you send me your address, phone number, and new ward and stake? I'd appreciate it lots.

Oh happy day for the Price family. I love and miss you lots, but I'm glad that I am here. Missions are definitely good things, even if it is hard at times. Love you lots and have a great summer in Utah.

Love,
Erin

de Connecticut

Hello Mother,

Well, I know I've been rather high emotion the last couple of times I've emailed. I guess I was looking for advice, support, something. Well, I was looking for some magical solution to solve my problems, but unfortunately, there isn't that magical solutions. It's diligence, trust in the Lord, and continually working on the small things.

All my life, I've seen my weaknesses and focusing on getting rid of them only to be discouraged when they never seemed to go away. This week I decided that I'm not expected to get rid of them. My part is to work diligently and let the grace of Jesus Christ lift me up. Relying wholly upon the Lord is one of the hardest things to do and yet the most rewarding. Being born again is a process because we give up our will portions at a time throughout our life as we understand and accept the Atonement of Christ. I can't say I understand it all, but it is a little more clearer to me.

Some lessons of life I've learned (besides the one above):

We must remember to see the tender mercies of the Lord. As we do we are blessed even more. The Book of Mormon begins saying the Nephi will show us the tender mercies the Lord gives to the faithful (1 Nephi 1:20). Then in Moroni 10:3-5 it admonishes to ponder the mercies of God in our hearts. The Book of Mormon begins and ends telling us to remember those tender mercies we receive everyday.

Then we need to remember to give thanks. Giving thanks is just as important as pleading with needs. We can't forget or brush over giving thanks to the Lord. I believe it is in D&C that says that in nothing is the Lord angry except when we forget to give thanks to him. (That's not a direct quote, you might want to look that up).

And I continue to learn these day by day. I still have fears and worries, but at the moment, they are a little more under control. Hopefully by the end of my mission they will be all gone.

But fun stories of the week. Sis. Lakip and I were going to drop up a Together Forever DVD that a lady had requested and I guess they don't use their front door very often because I walked straight into a spider web! It must have been newly woven because I didn't even see it  coming until it was too late. Sis. Lakip just laughed at me :), but I would have done the same thing if the roles had been reversed.

We also had to clean this week to get rid of bed bugs! That's right, the other sisters (Sis. Johanson and Stirling) had bed bugs and so the whole apartment had to be sprayed with this permethrin stuff and all our clothes bagged for washing. It smelled terrible, but it's what we do for a comfortable nights rest without having to worry if any critters are going to eat us alive. The sisters are now sleeping with the mattresses on the floor because we took apart their wooden bed (bed bugs hide there). I haven't been bitten yet (knock on wood).

Had a crazy event yesterday. There was a family preparing for baptism, but started avoiding us. We found out yesterday that the mother had done some illegal drugs and the father was kicking her out of the house and had called the police. I felt very uncomfortable because half the time I didn't know what they were saying, how do I respond when I don't know what they are saying? Sis. Lakip had to fill me in on things afterwards. Keep praying that I will be able to rely on the Lord because transfers are coming up and I don't think that I'll have my companion around to help with spanish. It's a scary thought, but I guess I knew it would happen some day.

And now that I have written another forever long letter. I will bid adieu. So glad the move went well. Don't worry about calling the office. Just send me your new address, phone number, email address (if it's different than this one) and what ward and stake you are in. I'm supposed to call the office anyway. Mom, Dad, and family--- I love you lots. Thanks for all you do and all your support. I have the best parents (and family) in the world.... no joke.

Love,
Erin

Oh man. Another week

Hello Family

Still, I continue to work. Our investigators have started to drop us. The dad is still interested in being baptized, but the wife won't talk to us. She is angry at the world. We pray for them, but still are not sure what to do.

We had Zone Conference this week. It was really good. Focused on teaching simply and with the spirit. And then today we had a dart war game. Went around the building shooting nerf darts through PVC pipes at each other. Senior companions vs. Junior companions. The Juniors won almost every time :).

We had a great lesson with a less-active family here. They stopped going to church pretty soon after they were baptized. We talked to them about remembering their baptismal feelings and about renewing their covenants. I don't know if they will come to church, but I believe it got them thinking more, and they felt the spirit.

We had a baptism this last Saturday in the ward. It was for an 8-year-old, but Sis. Lakip and I came about 15 minutes early to help out. Turns out no one had filled the font, which takes about 1 hour to fill if you want warm water, 30 minutes if you don't mind cold. So we called the Zone Leaders who had the keys and they rushed over to help. It was a pretty interesting baptism. So many things went awry, but all in all it was good. Just remember to get the font filled in time.

Hope all is well. I'm glad the move went well. I love you all and hope that you have fun in Utah! And is Jarom going to send me an invitation? I'd love to have one.

Love you lots,
Erin

Good, Good Times...

So.. honestly I am doing better. I've really been working on focusing this week and particpating more in Spanish. Yes, it still is a day to day struggle for me. And really putting all my heart into the work. I was talking to some sisters the other day and we were saying how easy it is to be outwardly obedient, but the real struggle is in controlling you mind and controlling you heart in really putting your whole heart in to the work. It didn't realize how much that would be a struggle, but I'm learnin. That's why the Lord doesn't say... "I require that you do this..." but instead he requires "the heart and a willing mind." And I continue to learn.

These past couple of days have been higher. We stopped by Maria and Jairo Jimenez. We were nervous that they were going to drop us because we hadn't heard from them in awhile despite are numerous calls and visits. But we stopped by yesterday and talked to Jairo. It turned into an impromptu lesson about tithing and word of wisdom, which he committed to live and told us he still wanted to be baptized on the 26th! We are so excited. The wife stills struggles with smoking, but she really wants to quit and we are working with her on that.

We also met with William Stimeberg yesterday. He's retired. We tracted into him about two weeks ago, but he went on vacation. It was so cool, he had so many questions. He knew a lot about the church history in general and was appalled by it.... perfect for the apostasy. He didn't believe in infant baptism and readily accepted the fact that God could call a prophet today. It was a good lesson. He told us that he would read the Book of Mormon and pray. We will be following up with him this week. He even told us how Elders had knocked on his door 20 years ago and he had let them in, but that even though they were nice they just brushed over the Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith (which I can understand with the 7 discussions), which is what he thought was the most distinguishing factor. I'm praying that he will sincerely pray and feel the spirit.

Oh, I learned how to make empanadas yesterday. We went to the Vidal's house for lunch and she taught me. It was pretty good, but so greasy. And they kept feeding us. I'll be honest, I was sick by the end. Sisters can not eat as much as Elders can even though the members think it's the same. Sis. Lakip and I were both really sick by the end. Fortunately it wore off during the day.

Today was fun too because a group of elders and us sisters  went to a member's house in New Canaan, who has this huge house, and basketball/tennis court, trampoline and such. We played basketball, tennis, wiffle ball. So much fun. Elder Garcia was even teaching me how to skateboard... it was actually pretty cool. It ended with a game of ultimate frisbee... what fun. But it is so hot and humid here. You get all sweaty, but there is really nothing you can do about it.

Hope the move goes smoothly and that you have tons of fun. I hope you know that I still tell everyone that I am from California.... :) It will always be my hometown, but it will be fun to see all the changes when I come home. Still... that's a long time away so I won't think about it. Let me know the new address so that I can let the office know. Or maybe you should just call the office and let them know because I don't know all the information they need. Let me know if you would prefer to do that.

Love you lots. Keep me in your prayers and mailing list. ;) It helps a lot. I pray for you too.

Love,
Erin

P.S. I got the package... thank you so much. I'm all ready with my rain jacket now. You are amazing family. What more could a sister missionary want... love you.

I've seen lightning bugs!

Hello Family,

Guess what happened. We had a whole family come to church on Sunday. They came and said they enjoyed it. The mother and father have a baptismal date. Their daughters don't necessarily because they never come in when we teach. One is older and never home and the other always has friends over. But we are still working closely with them and are excited with how much the progress. We heard the father pray for the first time and it was so sweet. There isn't anything as tender as hearing someone pray with sincere intent for the first time. There was such a great feeling in the room and all of us felt it. We will be seeing them this week to talk to them more. There names are Maria and Jairo.

I also saw a lightning bug for the first time. It was amazing, just made my day. Do we not have them in California? Now I see them everywhere. I want to go catch some one night and put them in a jar, but alas I really don't have time for that. Maybe another time when I visit.

Oh, another cool thing. We had mission conference last Friday, but what was unusual was that the whole mission was meeting together instead of splitting it into two areas like they usually do, but they wouldn't tell us why. It wasn't until we arrived to a church in Manhattan that we found out. President Uchtdorf was coming to speak to us. It was amazing. He was on vacation in New York and wanted to speak to the missionaries here. He spoke for an hour and a half or so and it was amazing. The spirit was so strong and he said a lot of things that helped me out. It seems that I keep needing those constant reminders.

I am grateful for the words of counsel and comfort I have received in my setting apart, my blessings here, and in my patriarchal blessing. They keep me going because I see how they exactly relate to what I am struggling with. It doesn't make the struggle any easier, but it is a comfort that God knew and prepared me with counsel for when it came. I'm praying that everything will be resolved.

That's way cool about the job, Dad! I hope that you get it, but I know whatever happens will be the best for the family. He is watching out for you. I don't have the new address for Utah... will you send it to me. I'd appreciate it much. And also will you have a new email address and phone number. These are things I need to report to the office once you move. Also probably the new ward information.... maybe more, but I would have to ask.

Love you lots and pray for you. Thank you for your prayers and support. Don't get too exhausted moving all the stuff to Utah. Have fun.

Love,
Sis. Price

Another cycle past!

Good Morning Mom, Dad, and Family,

Jackie was confirmed on Sunday! Which was a relief and excitement because
the whole family came to church. Yesterday we were over at her house and she
comes up and says... "Do you notice anything different? About my face?" We
look at her and are thinking... "no you still have the same makeup? Maybe a
little tanner? I don't know." Finally she retorts, "I took like 5 earrings
out" Lo and behold, she had taken out several earrings that she refused to
do before. We were so happy. She has changed so much and the girls from the
church have been so supportive, especially since she has made a lot of
changes with the friends she usually hangs out with.I'm not worried about
her anymore for when we leave because of the great youth we have here.

We also met a family whose son is friends with Jackie. We started teaching
them about the church and they seem really interested. :). We of course left
them with a Book of Mormon and we are going to come back and give them a
baptismal date. As we left we were talking about baptism by immersion and
their daughter was amazed that it was completely underwater. She said, "I
want to do that!" So we asked how old she was, when she responded 10, we
said, "Well, then you can." Of course, we want the parents to be excited
about it to. But I have lots of faith because at one point the father was
quizzing me about me testimony, how I got it, what it was... etc.... and
then he said, "When I studied with the Jehovah Witnesses, they knew a lot,
but I didn't feel anything. But I feel something with you." That's the Holy
Spirit! The church is true!

Thanks for the package, I am excited to get it. We've been having random
rainstorms almost everyday. Apparently it rains a lot in the afternoon
during the summer. Who would have guessed. I don't think I could live here.
I prefer the East Coast, but it's been a good experience.

Love you lots and miss you. I'll get through, I've gotten through this far.
Just tell me the happy news and how you are doing. And when is Jarom getting
married. You told me that it is less than a month away. Is he getting
married in July or August? Anyway, love you lots.

Love,
Me

Happy Wednesday!

Dear Family,

We had the baptism last week for Jackie Fraioli, which was wonderful. The
spirit is always so strong at baptisms and we were happy because quite a few
people showed up. A lot of support, which is the best thing.:). We have been
working a lot with the whole Torres family. They need lots of help. The
mother and father fight all the time and blame each other for their
problems, and yet they are still together.... I was wondering why that is.
The only conclusion is that they love their daughter, Sofia. We have been
trying to get them to do something as small as compliments. That is a
constant struggle.

I had a really good conversation with Christine (the mother), the other day.
We talked about following the Holy Spirit. My original intention was to talk
about how to recognize it, but she told me she feels the spirit everyday and
she knows what she needs to do, but she brushes it aside because it asks her
to do something to difficult. I shared my testimony, that though those
things are hard, it will bring us happiness. That the Holy Ghost always
leads us to right. I believe she realized then that God really was answering
her prayers, she just struggles following the answer. I don't blame her. I
understand (at least in part) what she feels (I'm sure each of us have that
in our lives, where it just seems like too much to ask). But I do know that
until she follows that prompting, things are not going to be like she wants
it to be. Still, the atmosphere in the house is improving.

Had a really cool experience yesterday while tracting. We met a man,
William, who as we started to talk to him said, "Yes, I know the Mormons.
And I respect them a lot because they live what they believe." What a great
way to start! Next thing he says is that he wants to do some geneaology and
wanted to know if we could find out some information about that. We keep
talking to him and he says... "Yeah, if you have some time I'd love to sit
down and talk with you for an hour or so." So we will be meeting with him
next week. Unfortunately we have to work on his wife. He told us that she
thought Mormons were a cult (I've heard that one before). We will probably
bring a couple with us so she can see that we are normal people, with great
testimonies.

So, I'll be coming home to Utah. Wow, things have been changing fast. It
will all be completely new. Oh question... Dad, didn't you serve part of
your mission in Ecuador. There is a family here from Ecuador who want to
know when and where you served there. I know you served in several different
countries, but was fairly certain you spent some time there. Could you let
me know.

Love, Me

Lots of heat and crazy weather!

Family, Friends, and others

I love you all! You are fantastic and thanks for the emails and letters.
They always help out.

So first bit of news.... the weather. We have now officially skipped to
summer. The past few days it has been 100 degrees. When I walk outside I
feel like I'm in a sauna (sp?) because it is so humid. I'm sweating so much,
I've stopped worrying about it. Don't worry, I've been drinking lots of
water. And the good news is that the weather has helped us talk to a few
people about the gospel. They wonder why we would go out for so long talking
to people about religion. Like one lady said, "I'm a devout Catholic, but
you wouldn't find me out in this heat." So we told her why it was so
important.

To continue with weather. Last Sunday we also had a crazy storm with
lightning and thunder. It was raining so hard that I thought it was hailing.
All in all it only lasted for about 5-10 minutes, but I was glad to be
inside talking to the Moranchel family (Part-member, less-active family). It
was a good thing too because when we went to go to a dinner appointment tons
of roads were blocked because huge branches and trees had fallen on the
roads and blocked them. Some had even taken down power lines. After three
different routes, we ended up parking the car and walking to the house.

We have a baptism tonight for Jackie Fraioli. It's so excited, though the
last couple of days have been a bit stressful. On Monday we called up and
her mom was stressed and saying things like, "You pushed her into getting
baptized!" and her mom's a member! We ended up talking to Jackie to see if
she felt the same way, since she had told us that she wanted to be baptized
earlier (aka Wednesday instead of Sunday). After talking for nearly two
hours, she was still set for being baptized. She was having doubts because
her friends at school are not supportive (she's 15 years old) and tell her
things like, "You can be good without having to be baptized." or "You won't
be able to change." Her testimony has grown, but we are going to continue
working on stregthening it and especially her faith in Jesus Christ because
she feels like she has to be perfect, but won't ever be. She has been a
great example to me in overcoming opposition.

I've really been thinking about and working on charity. My companion and I
still go up and down in our relationship. We are just so very different from
the lives we grew up in. She is great though and has a lot of love. I'm
working to strengthen my love for her, but also for the people I teach. It
reminds me of when I was set apart and it said that I would be blessed with
charity and to seek to develop this gift so that I could accomplish all that
I desire. I was reminded of it again with a conversation I had with my
campanion. So I've really tried to pray for that love and understand the
people and their lives. Sometimes it's difficult. Will you pray for me to be
able to have this love also?

We met Jairo and Maria this week. We taught them the first lesson and
committed them to church. They said they would come, so we are hoping and
praying for the best. They are reading, but I'm not sure they are really
praying to know. We will know better when we meet with them again.

I also had another cool experience this week. After a long, hot day we
decided to get pizza at a sit-down restaurant. As we waited for the food
another lady sat down next to us who was eating there by herself. And we
ended up talking about God, families, and the need for it in our lives. We
told her about Joseph Smith, modern-day prophets, and more about the church.
We gave her a pass-along card and invited her to church. She said she might
make it one day and before we left, she said, "You know, I believe that
things happen for a reason. I don't think it was just coincidence that I sat
next to you today." That was a good reminder to me of how involved the Lord
is in our lives.

Now on to your news! Moving in July. That's not too far away. How exciting.
You will have to let me know more about it as it comes closer. I received
Daniel's graduation/Eagle scout card. That's so great!I love you all and all
the accomplishments you are making. Keep it up.

Love you lots,
Erin

Good news....

Hello Mom, Dad, and Family,

Some amazing things that happened this week. We have been teaching an older
man from Honduras whose name is Basilio. He has accepted a baptismal date.
He's great! We taught him the Plan of Salvation the other day and he just
took it all in. I asked him what he thought of it afterwards and if he
believed it. He said, "Well, it's different, but I believe because you
taught me it." It reminds me of the scripture that says something to the
affect of "Blessed be those that believe on your words." Of course we told
him to continue praying and reading about it and he would know with more
surety.

My birthday went well. We were at church from 7:30 am to about 4:00pm. There
were meetings in the morning, then part of the English ward, and then the
Spanish ward, and then a baptism which we stayed for support (and because
Sis. Lakip was playing the piano and I was leading). Lots of people from the
hispanic ward attend the baptismal services.

Funnry story this week. We taught a lesson on Monday for a family home
evening at the Arenas' home. They had several families over. So Sis. Lakip
and I taught about faith and how many times the situation seems dangerous or
scary and we are not sure how we will get out of it, but then at the moment
we think we are going to fail, the Lord lifts it away. (Alma 36:3). We had a
demonstration afterwards where you take a tea bag (the kind that's stapled
shut) and empty out the contents and stand it up on your hand so that it is
a tall cylinder. You then light it on fire and it burns down, but right
before it gets to your hand the entire things lifts into the air and it
finishes burning.

Well, we had one of the youth come up to be the demonstrater, but then we
couldn't light the matches. So Hno Yulan came to help. I guess we didn't
explain well in Spanish what to do because he dropped the match onto the top
of the tea bag, which lit it on fire and then the match dropped to the kids
hand. Of course it burned his hand so on instinct he dropped it (I felt so
bad). All I could think was, "Oh no, don't burn the house down." Luckily the
bag is light enough that it stayed in the air with a couple of lifts from me
and was able to burn out. I was slightly burned in the process, but at least
no houses were burned. :). Hopefully the next demonstration goes better than
that.

We also have a baptism for Jackie set for next week. It was amazing because
on Sunday she stood up to bear her testimony and she started crying. She
said how grateful she was for everybody and the experiences she's had. Also
how she loved the sisters :). But the greatest part was when she said, "And
it has made me so happy. And because I'm happy I am going to be baptized."
She was crying, her mom was crying, Sis. Lakip was crying, I was smiling.
Everything is set for next Wednesday. She just has her interview tonight.

Yes, I would like my raincoat back. We still have random rainstorms here and
it would be good to have. I don't know why Connecticut is more wet than New
York, but it really seeems like it. Maybe it's just the rainy season now. Go
figure.

Question, Did Nancy Madsen move? I never heard if she did or not. Do you
know what Kristin has been up to?

Anyway, love you all and miss you. Thanks for the birthday cards. They
lightened up the day. Again love you lots and hope you have a great week.

Love,
Erin

It's raining, no pouring!

Hello Family!!!!

Oh goodness, it has been raining so much around here. Yesterday was a
surprise attack. When we left the house it was promising a warm, maybe even
hot sunny day. But as Sis. Lakip and I started tracting, these huge, black,
omninous clouds started rolling in. Well, to be optimistic I thought, "No,
it won't rain." Well, maybe it was more of denial because I hadn't brought
an umbrella. But as we continued walking down the street it started to mist,
then sprinkle, then rain, and then practically a downpour. We were soaking
within a few minutes. Luckily Sis. Lakip had brought her umbrella which she
shared. So her left side was drenched and my right side. And our feet were
squishing in our shoes as we walked through small rivers of water coming
down the sidewalk. It was quite fun, especially because it wasn't cold.

We had a great experience this last week. We have been working with a
less-active family who has started to come to church recently. The Torres
family, but more especially with their daughter Jackie Frioli. She is 15 and
not baptized. My first week here we had a great conversation with her and
after meeting a few time committed her to baptism. Which she accepted, but
was a little bit nervous about it. She went to Youth Conference (in
Kirtland, Ohio) and had a great experience their. She was telling us about
how she cried as she watched the restoration video and during testimony
meeting. The youth did a great job helping her and fellowshipping her. It's
a big change for her and many of her current friends don't believe that she
can do it. So I was so happy to hear that during testimony meeting, one of
the youth in our ward bore his testimony about her difficult it is because
others don't understand what they have with the church and how much of a
blessing it really is. But that they keep being an example because they know
how important it is. She's set to be baptized on June 14th. It will be my
first one (not that that's really important, but it makes me happy).

I've really been working this week on teaching in Spanish, but more
especially teaching quick, powerful lessons. I like to explain things a lot,
but then the lessons become longer than needful. The spirit testifies to
short, powerful testimonies. So, the goal of the mission and my goal is to
do a teaching appointment in 20 minutes total. This is a lot harder than I
thought it would be because that gives 5 minutes to start, prayer, song, etc
and then only 10-15 mintues of teaching. It's doable, but not what I am
used to. My companion is really good at it, so she has been helping me out.

I had my first street meeting the other day. It was actually really fun. We
were handing out free VHS videos to whoever wanted one on the street. Then
teaching them right there on the spot. It was really good for me to do
because it helped me realize that you go and talk to everyone. I was really
excited when I talked to these ladies from Peru. They had relatives in Peru
that were members, so I talked to them about the restoration and how it
blesses our families. Then got their information to teach them more. Sharing
the gospel is great!

I have a cold today. No fun, but luckily it is preparation day. I day to do
a bit more relaxing to rest of for the rest of the week. Hopefully it will
be mostly gone by tomorrow.

Love you lots. Hope all is well. Let me know the current news. Love you.

Love,
Erin

Connecticut girl!

Hello Family,

Yes, Connecticut is beautiful, even though I had to travel three hours to
get there. Lots of trees and lots and humidity. It's been raining almost
every day since I've been here, except for a few pockets of sunshine. Today
is actually quite beautiful. I sent home my rain jacket because I hadn't
used it that much, but now I'm thinking I might if this keeps up.... I'll
have to let you know :).

It's been a big switch back to spanish. I just don't have the confidence
there. I've been struggling with that confidence my whole mission, but I
think I've noticed it more since I've been made the senior companion and am
making more of the decisions. I'm definitely going to have to learn how to
deal with stress.

But things have been going well. I had a really good lesson with one of our
less-active members, Lidia Morranchel. She has two kids, but doesn't attend
church much because her husband is not a member. She even served a mission,
but she doesn't want to push the gospel onto her husband. We are trying to
build her faith and courage (I found it ironic because I'm still trying to
build mine). So we watched "Finding Faith in Christ" and asked her to bear
her testimony. We then talked about the example Christ set and how her much
her example is helping her children and husband and how her prayers and
faith will make the difference with her husband. She really wants him to be
baptized because she herself has a strong testimony. I felt the spirit so
strongly. It was a confidence booster for me too. We continue to work with
her and her husband.

Well, I love you lots. Don't worry, I drive safe and I have a great
co-driver who looks out for me to. Together, everything will be fine. I'm
getting used to it again. Glad to hear that all is well. Sounds like
everything is so exciting! I forgot that Daniel was graduating. How fun is
that! You get to see Elder Monson! How cool!

You are all so great and are in my prayers. Love you lots. Keep up your good
work.

Love,
Erin

Another cycle come and gone

Hello family and friends,

So, once again we anxiously awaited transfer calls Monday night. When that
phone finally rang we heard Elder Jones saying, "Pack your bags, both of you
are leaving." What! Both! They are closing the area to sisters and putting
in Elders. So we've been rushing around Kingston the past few days, trying
to get everything situated for the switch. That makes (not including the
mtc), 4 different companions and 3 areas in 4 cycles. I hope this isn't
going to be a habit for the rest of my mission.

I'm now in Greenwich, CT home to the richest and poorest zipcodes in the
United States. Yes, that would be my new area. And my companion is Sis.
Lakip. She came out a cycle after me and was trained by Sis. Milkanin also.
So, I'm senior companion, which I'm not sure how I feel about that. I would
have been fine being Junior companion my whole mission. I don't think it
really makes much of a difference though. We are really close in "age" and
she has had more spanish experience. We are pretty much equal. The only
difference is that I have to drive the car (yes, not get to, but have to.)

So, I am back in a Spanish ward, but we are still working English also. From
what I hear I mostly find and teach in English and mostly member work in
Spanish. Ay, que voy a hacer? Well, I'm going to learn spanish. My stomach
still does this little flippy thing when I have to speak it, but it's better
since being in Kingston because I had to do all calls and lessons by myself
in Spanish. I just will be speaking more here. Pray for the gift of tongues.

My new address is:

69 Clinton Ave # 2G
Stamford, CT 06901

Ha, I'm in the 0's now. :)

Not much new this week. I told most of it to you on Sunday. It was so good
to call you. Don't worry, I know I was crying when I left, but I was fine
once we started tracting. Still, I do really appreciate all of your support
and love. It helps me make it through those tougher days.

I sent a package home today. I still have a lot of things that I hate
carrying around (I'm such a heavy packer). But slowy I'm getting rid of
things that I don't really use. And things I accumulate from member's and
such. Such as my dirt buddy and woodstock bee. Had to give away the former
and send home the latter.

Love you so much. Hope all is well on the homefront. Let me know of any
changes. I have the best family in the world and I'm serving in the best
mission.

Love you lots,

Erin

Some good stories

Hello Family,

So... That is some pretty big news that I heard. Jarom's engaged! How
exciting and Tayler is so sweet. It is indeed crazy how quickly life
changes. And the house is up for sale. Even crazier. Though I do find the
idea of coming home to a new place rather exciting. Even though I will miss
the old one. Lots of memories, yes. Lot's of good memories.

So, I'm sure you want to hear about some of the good stories that have been
going on. Story number #1

Rose. She was a media referral who requested a Book of Mormon. It was
actually a mistake. She thought she had studied it with Mormon's before, but
it turns out that they were Jehovah Witnesses with the Bible. Funny how
people are led. Still we taught about Joseph Smith and the restoration. I
really couldn't tell how she took the idea. She seemed friendly enough, but
not really interested. Though she is very religious.

We had another appointment with her, but she cancelled because of work,
which disappointed us because she was going to give us a call. And to us
that is code for, "I really don't want to talk to you anymore, but I don't
want to tell you that." Yes, I'm finding many forms of rejection, but there
really isn't much I can do about that.

But that just made us all the more excited when she called up and said,
"Hey, can you come over today. I got off work early." So of course, we made
room and visited her. It turns out that her son used to attend Church, but I
don't think he goes much anymore. I've been learning a lot about the Holy
Spirit and the power it brings. Like it said, "If ye have not the spirit, ye
shall not teach." So I was praying (partly because I felt like I wasn't
teaching very clearly), "If nothing else, feel the Spirit, just help her
feel the Spirit." Still, she was liked a closed book. I couldn't really tell
how she felt. Until at the end when we asked will she be baptized when she
knew it was true. Her response, "Probably, it just feels right." Oh how
excited we were. We still have some challenges to pull through since she
works so much. We are waiting to hear from her once her schedule settles
down. If we don't hear within the next couple of days we will give her a
call.

Good story #2: So we had two appointments set up for Sunday. Yet, as we went
to go meet with them. They weren't there. Lame. So we went tracting. The
first door, nothing. The second door, not interested. The third door, not
interested and closed the door behind that had previously been open when we
walked up (Are the trying to prove a point? I don't know) Basically, we had
no success, until the last door. We spoke to her about families and how a
prophet can bless them and she was interested. But she is going on vacation
for the next two weeks, so we have to call her. Still, it wasn't a
I'm-trying-to-avoid-you excuse. I can usually tell those. She was quite
sincere. So we'll be back to visit her.

Good story #3- The NYNYN mission is currently the number one baptizing
mission in the Eastern States and Canada. That's pretty cool. We were behind
Philadelphia for a long time, but not anymore. Still, I know that it isn't a
competition, but we were pretty happy to hear that. Can't let pride get in
the way. Maybe that's why I haven't had a baptism yet. I don't know. Maybe
I'll never know what good I've done till the next life, but I just keep
working and praying for the Lord to guide my success. Sometimes it's hard to
accept his will, but we learn and grow from it.

Just got asked if I had a boyfriend (rolling of eyes). Told him I didn't
because I was on a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints. Then taught him about how Mormon's are Christians and what the Book
of Mormon is, concluding it with an invitation to church. Bet he wasn't
expecting that. Oh goodness. Some people.

Loving mission, loving life. Hope you are still all well.

Love, Erin

Armor of God

To all loved ones near and far or wherever you are,

Still have my poetry skills. ;)

Kingston is grand! I hope I'm here another cycle, but it's always hard to
predict what will happen in the future.

Last week (you saw the pictures) Sis. Rutalante took Sis. Vathauer and I to
see the world's largest kaleidescope and Woodstock. It was pretty cool, she
said possibly in the future she would take us to see. Opus 40. I'm not sure
if that is how you spell it, but it's sounds really cool. She explained it
to me once, but I'm not sure what it is, something with rock.

But, on to the work. It has slowed down a bit the past few weeks, which
makes things frustrating. It's hard not to think, what am I doing wrong?
What do I need to do better? Why isn't our work giving results? (You are
right Mom, those thoughts do come in often.) The thing is, I often have to
take a step back and think, "Don't you remember your blessings? Don't you
remember your talents? Don't you remember that you are called of God?"
Reality check. God's in charge and though always are things I can improve,
he knows my thoughts, intents, weaknesses, strengths, and desires. So I
block them out, or try to. But I do really enjoy the work here. And I
recieve tender mercies daily to let me know to keep working, moving forward,
and trusting in the Lord.

We found a new lady this week to teach. Her name is Milly. She's a single
mother with 4 kids. She was sitting on her porch when we first walked by
her, but we didn't stop on talk. Well, turns out we went by her house again
(to get back to the car of course) and she was still there. So I thought,
"well, why not?" Before I could even get more out than "Hey, out enjoying
the weather?" she says, "You're missionaries right, the mormons. Can I have
some reading materials, I would really like a bible too." And so we set up a
time to go by and teach her. She's really sweet and looking for change. Our
first lesson was really short with her because of an interruption, but
before we left she said, "Come back, please. I feel something when you are
here. I feel comfortable!" Yes, the Spirit! That's good to know that I have
it with me. :). So we have another appointment with her on Sunday.

After someone is baptized, you reteach the lesson to them, which is what we
have been doing with Sage Lambert. She's 13, and struggling a bit in the
gospel, so even though we finished the lessons, we continue to teach her.
Our goal has been to help the scriptures come alive for her. So... Sis.
Vathauer came up with the idea of fortifying ourself against the attacks of
Satan and we read 3 Nephi chapter 3 with her replacing her name for
Lachoneus and Satan name's for Giddianhi. And then Sis. Vathauer had me put
on some armor. Which consisted of a colander helmet, spatula sword, and a
tuperware lid shield. Then I defended myself against the fiery darts of the
adversary. It made her laugh, which is a step with her. She's kind of
apathetic towards life, just trying to find her way as a teenager.

We went tracting in the rain the other day. At one point my jacket had been
soaked through, so we went to some apartment buildings. Unfortunately you
still had to go outside to get to different buildings. So there was me,
running with my bag atop my head trying to stay as dry as possible. I was
really wet and didn't really feel very official with rain drippping down my
forehead, but what do you do. Nothing really, just laugh. We then had family
home evening with the Cook family. It was strange being in a setting like
that again. We sang popcorn popping as an opening and played guess the
animal game. Whoa, been a long time since I had family home evening like
that. I enjoyed it very much.

We went to the temple today. It was lovely. At some really good chicken and
rice from a street vendor and feeling a little lost in NYC, good thing my
companion knows where she is going. Well, we need to get going. Need to get
some things done, before the day gets away from us. I love you lots. Keep in
touch.

Love,

Erin

Work, work, work!

Hola Familia,

Estoy bien aqui en Kingston. Tuvimos una conferencia misional con Elder
Maines de la setenta. Estaba muy buena.

Just practicing a little Spanish there. Much good is happening here and
things are improving. We have difficulty with the ward and getting it to
grow. They've lost their spark for the work and we are trying to build
relations to improve it. But I believe we have been blessed. One of our
recent struggles has been in finding new investigators to teach, but
yesterday despite our limited time in working (since we had mission
conference in the morning) we found three new people, which we are excited
about.

Elder Maines from the seventy spake at the conferece (I think he is in the
bishopric) and it was really good. Nothing doctrinally deep nor anything
about Kolob. He just talked about good, old-fashioned work. That we need to
work hard to demonstrate our faith and sincerity behind our prayers and the
Lord blesses us with results. We then did this reverse planning on how hard
we should be working. What it came down to is that if we wanted to have 1
baptism a month, we needed to be teaching at least one first lesson (about
Joseph Smith) a day, and contacting at least 10 new people a day. Nothing
overly difficult, but it takes consistency and diligence. So I've repented
:) again, and dedicated myself to teaching more and contacting more, which
isn't my favorite thing to do, but it is growing on me.

I'm glad we have companionships though. They support you when you are
feeling inadequate. For example, the other day Sis. Vathauer and I were out
tracting, not much success at the houses, but we walked by a Hospital and we
saw a security guard. I thought, "I probably shouldn't talk to him, he is on
duty and might get in trouble." So I walked past. The next thing I here is
my companion saying, "I know you are duty, but we have an incredible
message....." My companion's great! And he was interested in learning more.
Then yesterday, as we left a lesson I decided to contact this man before
getting in the car to travel to a dinner appointment. He was going to bible
study and invited me to go with him, well that's when I invited him to learn
more about the restored gospel, testifying that it would bless his family.
And he agreed to learn more....isn't the Spirit amazing, carrying the
message "unto their hearts." Course, it is no guarantee that they will be
baptize, but at least the first step of inviting has been taken.

Course, not all is dandy in missionary work. Like the lady who abruptly hung
the phone up on me (after she had requested the video no less), or the one
who verbally attacked us saying that we had no right to tell her what to
believe and that we were wasting our lives away. Maybe I already told you
about that one. Yes, I'm learning to handle the bad with the good. Absorbing
all the good moments, and learning to have all the hurt absorbed in the joy
of Christ. I'm better than before and am sure the future will help even
more.

I'm sorry to hear about Emily. It can be really rough, but I'm determined to
stick it through, happily. Course (Kirstin can relate to this), sometimes I
have to say to myself, "This is a happy time. We are all going to be
happy.!." and some days are harder than other, but the cure certainly is to
work. Because the days I work the hardest are the nights that I'm the most
content, even if we didn't have any new investigators or baptismal dates.

Our biggest breakthrough is with Sis. Righetti and less-active member. We
have been trying for weeks to get her to stop drinking coffee and tea, but
even though she says what she thinks she wants you to hear, she hasn't
stopped. Whenever we started talking about it, she went into this zoned-out,
I'm-listening-but-not attitude. But then we told her about temple baptisms
and how she could do them for her family and she became really excited about
it. As we taught the plan of salvation to her we told her why temple
baptisms were so important and that she needed to be temple worthy to be
able to do them, which included living the word of wisdom. She started to
cry, (I didn't know what to do) so I asked her what was wrong (that was a
good response right? :)) and she said it was a happy sad. And that she
wanted so badly to baptize her mother who is deceased. Though she committed
to stop drinking, I was a little worried if she would stick with it. But
when we visited her on Tuesday, she had thrown away her made coffee and was
planning on giving away her tea and coffee grinds. And... her coffee pot
broke, so she took it as a sign that what she was doing was right. We didn't
argue with that one.

She also spoke about how much the Savior loves her and started to cry again.
Our goal is to get her to the temple soon. And what made me even more happy
is that I noticed she paid her tithing on Sunday, which she hasn't done in
awhile. And we didn't even talk about tithing!!!! We need to visit her again
to keep her spirits up and on track.

Ok, Ok, I know, I've written another epistle. But I hope it's letting you
know a bit more about what is going on. I pray for you at home and know
everything will turn out for the best. You are an amazing family! Thanks for
your example and support. Love you lots.

Love,

Erin

Missionary to the rescue!

Thanks for your email Mom!

I was thinking about it the other day. I usually write emails at about 10:00
here (today is a little later than usual) so that would make it 7:00 your
time. And then I was thinking, I wake up at 6:30 in the morning which would
be 3:30 am for you. Just one of those random things I think about at times.

I'll be honest, this last week has been rather discouraging. I hit my low on
Sunday. Emotionally I've been building up since then. We were supposed to
have 3 people for sure, show up on Sunday, but not one of them came. And we
haven't had any new investigators, and all our old investigators weren't
there at the appointments or cancelled. Ugh... but I'm sure the Lord is
teaching me. I think he's telling me to 1) be patient 2) work hard and 3)
contact more people on the streets (I struggle with that one). Monday
morning I had to laugh (remember I was still low about Sunday's rejections)
because when I opened the Book of Mormon to continue reading where I left
off, the first words were, "and if ye shall endure to the end, ye shall be
lifted up at the last day." I've had several of those small experiences,
such the scripture in Alma that say, "Be not weary in well-doing for such
shall find rest to their souls." I noticed that it didn't say rest to their
bodies, but rest to their souls. Ok, ok, I can take a hint.

So here's my fun experience for the week. Sis. Wooton is a member of our
ward. Very quiet, very reserved, but very sweet. She invited Sis. Vathauer
and I over for dinner on Monday so that we could meet some friends of hers
that she wanted to introduce to the gospel. Of course we agreed. As we
traveled to her house we called her to let her know that we would be 10
minutes late. A very flustered Sis. Wooton answered the phone. I told her
that we were running a little late and she said, "When will you be here?
They are asking lots of bible questions?" After hanging up the phone I
thought of how ironic the situation was, before my mission I would be the
Sis. Wooton worried about the bible discussion, anxiously awaiting the
missionaries arrival, but now I'm the missionary who is coming to save the
day. Surprisingly I wasn't that worried even though I was anticipating a
bible bashing evening (and I don't know the bible well enough to do bashing,
which is ok because we aren't supposed to bash anyway).

We came in on a discussion of the scripture in Romans 8:8. Something to the
effect of "no man can dwell in the flesh and have the spirit of God." I was
worried at first, but the discussion ended well. By the end of the night the
friend, Tony, said he had learned a lot. We are not sure yet if he is
interested in learning more. We will talk to Sis. Wooton about it.

The weather has warmed up so much. In fact, the bush outside our yard is
these beautiful white flowers on it. I thought of taking a picture of it,
but haven't done it. I've even gone tracting a couple times without a
jacket, which is a big deal. All the snow is gone and though we have colder
rainy days in between, all in all it's getting warmer. And it's getting
lighter earlier in the morning, which I am happy with. I don't really like
having to get up when it's still dark outside. It's even warm enough that
I've gone running a couple times with Sis. Vathauer. I love spring!

I will be sending pictures soon. I will have about three cds to send by the
end of today. They've been building up. It's just that my last preparation
days have been filled with unusual things. For example, last p-day was
filled with our super looking over things at our apartment because we walked
in one night to the smell of gas. Sis. Vathauer was quite worried over it.
She didn't want me to turn on the light because it might cause an explosion.
Don't worry it didn't. But she did convince me to not try the stove top. I
don't think it would have caused an explosion, but I guess I could be dead
right now ;). According to Sis. Vathauer, I've gone down on the "Social
Darwinism" scale.

Don't worry, we have a new stove now that is beautiful and doesn't leak gas.
And a washer machine. But time is short. I love you and hope I answered some
more questions. Feel free to ask because sometimes I experience things so
often that it's just normal for me, but could be of interest to others. Love
you lots and miss you lots. Thanks for the letters and prayers. I will pray
for you.

Love,
Erin

Fw: New from New York

----- Original Message -----
From: "Erin Price" <nyprice@myldsmail.net>
To: <foreverone@cox.net>
Sent: Wednesday, April 09, 2008 8:04 AM
Subject: New from New York

Hello Family,

First question. You spoke about tax season which reminded me about my taxes.
Is there something I need to do for taxes? I'm afraid that my statement or
report might have been sent to the Arizona address (which Marisa doesn't
live at anymore). Is that going to be a problem? Sorry if it is. Just think
about next year.... you won't have to worry about any taxes for me :).

The work is going well. Though sometimes I get discouraged. But I'm learning
that faith is demonstrated on how you react to the situations. So Sis.
Vathauer and I are trying to double our efforts and be more diligent.

Part of our frustration was because of Kenny. He has a baptismal date for
March 20 and Last week he was supposed to come to church, but his wife
called Sunday morning saying he had a stroke and was in the hospital. Whyyy?
He was supposed to come to church. But then we visited him in the hospital
on Tuesday and to our amazement, he had brought his Book of Mormon to the
hospital and had read it! As we talked (Kenny's a talker and likes to tell
stories), he was talking about how he used to study with a pastor, I forget
what religion, and had asked him what the difference between all the
different translation of the bible was. They all taught the word of God. The
pastor had said, "well, there's nothing different". This made me and Sis.
Vathauer a little nervous. How do you respond to that, so I responded with
something to the effect of, "Many religions teach of God, and are trying to
help us come back to him, but the difference would be that they lack the
full truth to get there." And that's when he picked up the Book of Mormon
off his lap and said, "And that's why we have this. This book has that
truth." He went on to say, that he feels something (a burning) when we
teach, when he prays, and when he reads the Book of Mormon. (Maybe he can
tell that to Ivan who says he feels nothing when he reads the Book of
Mormon).

Yet, the story with Kenny continues. Since the doctor's couldn't find
anything wrong with him, they said it might be caused by him trying to quit
smoking too quickly. That he probably needs to try a slower way.... Well, I
can't say the doctor is wrong about causing a shock to his body, but would
it cause a stroke? Kenny does have a lot of health issues though. (His
biggest challenge to overcome is his smoking habit.) So he was out of the
hospital by yesterday afternoon and when we talked to him to confirm our
appointment today he said he's leaving up to Albany to do some work
repairing the roof on a friends house. I wanted to say Kenny! you just got
out of the hospital for a stroke and you want to do manual labor. But I knew
he already considered that, so I refrained. He and his wife need the money.
The disappointing thing is that he wasn't sure how long it would take, so he
wasn't sure if he'd be back in time for church. Which means we have to push
back his date. And that makes me nervous because it gives the opposition
more time to come in and dissuade him from it. We are praying for him.

That was the highlight of the week. I really enjoyed conference this week!
Especially the one about motherhood.... not because it was about motherhood,
but because I thought it related well with handling a mission. You have to
live in the moments because that's where the joy comes. Some say a mission
is the greatest marriage prep. And I learned something this week:

What do you want to be distinguished for?

In Alma 27 it speaks about the Anti-Nephi-Lehies were distinguished as the
people of Ammon to the Nephites, but they were distinguished for more than
that. Alma 27: 27,30 "And they were also distinguished for their zeal
towards God, and also towards men; for they were perfectly honest and
upright in all things; and they were firm in the faith of Christ, even unto
the end....and thus they were a zealous beloved people, a highly favored
people of the Lord."

Repentance is not a bad word. It's only through repentance that we can
experience joy. That's what Alma the Younger taught us. And that's my recent
studying and learning in a nutshell.

Love you lots. Hope all is well and your spirits are high. Let me know what
is going on. You are great!

Love,
Erin