tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26433274493409220222024-03-21T21:21:08.159-07:00Sister Sarah Ralph Missionary MusingsUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger83125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-20893133624554243742014-10-23T13:58:00.000-07:002014-10-23T13:58:00.426-07:0023 October 2014 -- And She's HomeSarah's route home included going to Tacloban and meeting with the mission president. Returning to Ormoc where she boarded a boat to Cebu. From Cebu she flew to Manila and boarded a 747 to Tokyo. From Tokyo to Seattle was over 9 hours...and she didn't sleep on the plane. Jon surprised her right after she got off the plane (just like he did for Ben), as he flew in from CA that morning. It was great to have family and friends there. She has pumped up when she got home but exhaustion set in after 4 hours and she was put to bed.<br />
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Some of the highlights at SeaTac International airport after Sister Sarah came up from Customs.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There to greet her from L to R...Uncle Brian, brothers Jon and Samuel, Aunt Ruth, Mom, Dad and sister Rebekah.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Surprised with flowers from Rebekah.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jon flew in from CA to surprise Sarah and<br />the rest of us...lol.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Samuel was pretty happy.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Samuel loved Sarah's smile. He wants one like that</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daddy/Daughter time!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mommy/Daughter Time!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Uncle Brian and Aunt Ruth are always supportive.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rebekah Kozy took the family photo.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sister Rebekah connected Sarah to the Siblings<br />who were in Utah, Idaho and Texas.<br />Thanks for the connection!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The tan line...<br /></td></tr>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-33756707353888789562014-10-20T12:24:00.000-07:002014-10-20T12:24:49.624-07:0019 October 2014 - Last emails from Tacloban Philippines MissionI took more pictures this week than I have in the whole last transfer so I will only send a few and little words...<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is the ladies in the market where we buy our vegetables.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">These are my FAVORITE people, they work in the meat shop at Gaizanos and we are great friends, I literally cried when I had to say 'bye to them. It would be the same as us being attached to Walmart workers in America. They are the BEST PEOPLE EVER!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6yDOYnRuoKqiAgH08N4kU2I1kX7RXLhad-SzDm1lZcmYo2ymUq85q7vvpZ1ILSFFF74A6VJ-74L-Dz-2etv1NsQK1dbWLpMrGSPQAp5WRBXrdjCUdvIdvZ0OfhQfDgQxytSZDRb-7a-2o/s1600/19Oct2014.3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6yDOYnRuoKqiAgH08N4kU2I1kX7RXLhad-SzDm1lZcmYo2ymUq85q7vvpZ1ILSFFF74A6VJ-74L-Dz-2etv1NsQK1dbWLpMrGSPQAp5WRBXrdjCUdvIdvZ0OfhQfDgQxytSZDRb-7a-2o/s1600/19Oct2014.3.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">FHE with Medalle family and investigators. I love them so much!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfXWA16oi0NFeyNh2G3rGw7vKAbtSikDBBMLI6IhaYHNjysIBCFxJV1D2aF8mBdwkzbZI6yCr8wXSsaoJkq1m5qolEVXj0kpY_tMqBOTCz9vIpmjSe6vAkl_cZ3TwZwb5uPrcBcvPnUfBW/s1600/19Oct2014.4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfXWA16oi0NFeyNh2G3rGw7vKAbtSikDBBMLI6IhaYHNjysIBCFxJV1D2aF8mBdwkzbZI6yCr8wXSsaoJkq1m5qolEVXj0kpY_tMqBOTCz9vIpmjSe6vAkl_cZ3TwZwb5uPrcBcvPnUfBW/s1600/19Oct2014.4.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Danica and me! She is a sweetheart that is really interested in the Gospel and comes to church. Love her!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYUPy3FPgDCAw9LD8ZhDWkZS9NslqEPswHBInjFLu3NRmq8Lz_4ZOfkNyD2YdOG-gdHV1uvJHlb-0-WK3-WPxiSGwmj5AVmDxHBbCCJIDjn7_4V8fbSDenCXjup8iUDgKE2CBH7uXmCGeX/s1600/19Oct2014.5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYUPy3FPgDCAw9LD8ZhDWkZS9NslqEPswHBInjFLu3NRmq8Lz_4ZOfkNyD2YdOG-gdHV1uvJHlb-0-WK3-WPxiSGwmj5AVmDxHBbCCJIDjn7_4V8fbSDenCXjup8iUDgKE2CBH7uXmCGeX/s1600/19Oct2014.5.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">FHE with Tunada family-recent converts and Nildie and the Rafael family recent converts too. ALL people I love, love sooooo much!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRi6a1rIg0yRXM7nHp6pz0JWsdEjLG8NUuJteB-xRfHa2hHhpbxJ8qAf63MI-sMmBnUFWcmV1wOLkMVCwa9h7j4lUVGnR8hUrQvwO5_TPRRVaFIRMskRERXU-n4kMIHapot-DdgVeRKYs2/s1600/19Oct2014.6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRi6a1rIg0yRXM7nHp6pz0JWsdEjLG8NUuJteB-xRfHa2hHhpbxJ8qAf63MI-sMmBnUFWcmV1wOLkMVCwa9h7j4lUVGnR8hUrQvwO5_TPRRVaFIRMskRERXU-n4kMIHapot-DdgVeRKYs2/s1600/19Oct2014.6.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">I can't remember this guy's name but he is the definition of what it means to be a Filipino--- at least for me. Nothing stops that smile. (=</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8YI50QwYAlm_QsqlXAgBAWEcWzqA4f-J6ErZyE2LsZaO1A6-rM2EBponoTmTdg8lQyCSKvuqsVplF-RGrDWkb77wOLQCtCRzMObxO2cboLkE4kjXaKb4D3GtIa_ZgtN3dkR7wcNFvlzyk/s1600/19Oct2014.7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8YI50QwYAlm_QsqlXAgBAWEcWzqA4f-J6ErZyE2LsZaO1A6-rM2EBponoTmTdg8lQyCSKvuqsVplF-RGrDWkb77wOLQCtCRzMObxO2cboLkE4kjXaKb4D3GtIa_ZgtN3dkR7wcNFvlzyk/s1600/19Oct2014.7.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">My Last time in Luna where the people are so sweet and receptive and happy. I love Luna! </span><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Yes Luna is part of my area. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHbopPqi8OPcGpFSmcjeZvltFmUJi6vhjBAWM18MdI8Q3oL1cZeyGil_hhosgP6jCuqlZAdxJLSLJusPLGr6d0yWwqEQZcNy6pt03e9BHsJtVhOI34khN2ChSvWa7AI24QUEGzEx_Jj9-E/s1600/19Oct2014.8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHbopPqi8OPcGpFSmcjeZvltFmUJi6vhjBAWM18MdI8Q3oL1cZeyGil_hhosgP6jCuqlZAdxJLSLJusPLGr6d0yWwqEQZcNy6pt03e9BHsJtVhOI34khN2ChSvWa7AI24QUEGzEx_Jj9-E/s1600/19Oct2014.8.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Brother Rafael and his two sweet daughters that I will miss so much! <br />This family makes me so happy!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlyuctWlBHXwwmx8E7hJ1zlgvFzvD0Bz1uC8_7p29gW0wHLTKrrU21mOS_IjfIPjH-iTQx-36Ts-w5CUhvicixi9GI2bDB5oJhSnecDGNp7AM4W5c5l-fC9FNdES67cVzpdmVkdUZLCm_E/s1600/19Oct2014.9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlyuctWlBHXwwmx8E7hJ1zlgvFzvD0Bz1uC8_7p29gW0wHLTKrrU21mOS_IjfIPjH-iTQx-36Ts-w5CUhvicixi9GI2bDB5oJhSnecDGNp7AM4W5c5l-fC9FNdES67cVzpdmVkdUZLCm_E/s1600/19Oct2014.9.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is Johanna. The little one next to me. We have been teaching her for a long time but she has not been baptized yet because we want and need her dad to be active in the church before so. Prayer,Prayer, prayer!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwpIwRpADVh0zXhmyqcWdub8Lt_pYVYZDeSmJL1SS893YYNXOW9t62anpT2m0zbC-b35zcWThC4Ko08ecvPUB2ydqCBVDW-rHzytMOUloaioCgMtxIOBMe7dSVVmvPAk9P3_4zSpursNae/s1600/19Oct2014.10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwpIwRpADVh0zXhmyqcWdub8Lt_pYVYZDeSmJL1SS893YYNXOW9t62anpT2m0zbC-b35zcWThC4Ko08ecvPUB2ydqCBVDW-rHzytMOUloaioCgMtxIOBMe7dSVVmvPAk9P3_4zSpursNae/s1600/19Oct2014.10.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is the Salidaga family. I LOVE THEM so much! Sister is the humblest sweetest wife who has been through so much and Ariel, the older looking one reminds me of Captain Moroni even though he is quiet. He is going to be such an amazing missionary. And his little brother- the sweetheart, will fall in his footsteps (= I love this family.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwYxomJVIvecjFj8yumTcpsoiKyBDy36wFemOdH_QB4ggObVMe2VWcOoY6ElLyX4lb5Xo-A5YHTCFznxPXA_0MZl8E2GsX25h5M99fZPtXJwvEPvKtgXQ5X4RJWnXMiNG0DQ0LezsT0tiy/s1600/19Oct2014.11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwYxomJVIvecjFj8yumTcpsoiKyBDy36wFemOdH_QB4ggObVMe2VWcOoY6ElLyX4lb5Xo-A5YHTCFznxPXA_0MZl8E2GsX25h5M99fZPtXJwvEPvKtgXQ5X4RJWnXMiNG0DQ0LezsT0tiy/s1600/19Oct2014.11.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is Kim Linggo and her family. She was one of two of our baptisms this week!! It was such a beautiful service. This has been a long awaited day for her and we were privileged to be a part of it.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXQKLTCjmozI-iyT7lImmBSyUa95bZ9sJ1YJbUlG_244Cd8nXwl_I5rkAM145c9JKdFdg-iBBtqyMtE1pPzUtnrS6NSrttgBPCi662ARHwNzz671qlF__b4gsr2EEjFoNkDvoIi2BrS0DP/s1600/19Oct2014.12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXQKLTCjmozI-iyT7lImmBSyUa95bZ9sJ1YJbUlG_244Cd8nXwl_I5rkAM145c9JKdFdg-iBBtqyMtE1pPzUtnrS6NSrttgBPCi662ARHwNzz671qlF__b4gsr2EEjFoNkDvoIi2BrS0DP/s1600/19Oct2014.12.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Marianne is the second. AH! They showed up quite late and so that's why the picture is dark, haha. BUT they made it and she bore a heart felt testimony that put us to tears because normally we have to pull teeth to get her to speak at all. AHH! BLESSINGS!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSxWKEDnENN9LJ98KSgI41Ha25OZNhWAYem7QONZV5bOJP2Z6XX_jElh4LwnlyzpSks11KnlBrF0w4KREKYhPMu9rt_MgPAdYz4WWSrImIRsKNQ3RVlohN9pf80qLYdoFKGKpB2AvmHy_/s1600/19Oct2014.13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSxWKEDnENN9LJ98KSgI41Ha25OZNhWAYem7QONZV5bOJP2Z6XX_jElh4LwnlyzpSks11KnlBrF0w4KREKYhPMu9rt_MgPAdYz4WWSrImIRsKNQ3RVlohN9pf80qLYdoFKGKpB2AvmHy_/s1600/19Oct2014.13.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">I am the most blessed person on the face of the earth. After our baptism I was thrown a Farewell party by the members and this is me sitting in the front of everyone with a bunch of crazy sweet kids trying to not cry as members stood up and said what they wanted to me. Of course I cried.... I had no idea about some of the sweet things they said and I was so touched. I love ORMOC! AND!!!!!!!! Carigara!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguGczHKNOH-bXGsuq1vObDC0BC0SnzLSMRmftbvUGhBPGJVwcBaJE5he7qx6gWlx9Fn4pfFprUupplvYrw3oD-N5dIoqiSN9DIl8hF1mqFAV0JaKyh2XdfEBuHOD4mjj89-PfAGS8aveFd/s1600/19Oct2014.14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguGczHKNOH-bXGsuq1vObDC0BC0SnzLSMRmftbvUGhBPGJVwcBaJE5he7qx6gWlx9Fn4pfFprUupplvYrw3oD-N5dIoqiSN9DIl8hF1mqFAV0JaKyh2XdfEBuHOD4mjj89-PfAGS8aveFd/s1600/19Oct2014.14.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">... OK, this is going to take a second to explain. All of the missionaries going home got permission to go travel to a different area they had served in and to visit and teach the members and recent converts there that we had taught before. I was the only one that ended up not being able to. I wanted to go to Carigara but I could not find someone to go with me because my companion would need to stay and work. But at my farewell party I was SURPISED out of my Mind when my members and recent convert Jessica SHOWED UP! I literally was soooooooooo SOOOOO HAPPY! They came to me! I did not even tell them. It was my bishop. AH! YES. My heart is so full! I can't express how happy I am.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSugOVWl0ILlRjdKrWl1zqvaeYEK7MjQuq83bnOnlVCOb7V5V5_mTtFSbDXsx_nTglan10s1Qb4AL314LEX9vXRKwIg6iP9B5iDwm95v_LopEmPanRCEqF8tHCn1wojHrIajA-QQkrFYC-/s1600/19Oct2014.15.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSugOVWl0ILlRjdKrWl1zqvaeYEK7MjQuq83bnOnlVCOb7V5V5_mTtFSbDXsx_nTglan10s1Qb4AL314LEX9vXRKwIg6iP9B5iDwm95v_LopEmPanRCEqF8tHCn1wojHrIajA-QQkrFYC-/s1600/19Oct2014.15.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is Mari Lou our progressing investigator. She has lots of concerns and trials in her life but she has a real desire to change and be better.</span></td></tr>
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There are so many pictures here but I can't send them so I am sorry.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-lgZnALfzlEre4d8ex1ywEow_1ujCuhsBDDywvFDh2S8BFu0qYkGvZIbxswKpS2OLrVWvf2gIUzzdh038mmz4FcxERfaCZpmD7wel0sivJwLTx1qCB0lE9qkvsLRJdPiNYgaLnF6LlL4c/s1600/19Oct2014.16.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-lgZnALfzlEre4d8ex1ywEow_1ujCuhsBDDywvFDh2S8BFu0qYkGvZIbxswKpS2OLrVWvf2gIUzzdh038mmz4FcxERfaCZpmD7wel0sivJwLTx1qCB0lE9qkvsLRJdPiNYgaLnF6LlL4c/s1600/19Oct2014.16.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is the last time I saw sister Nildie- Recent convert. <br />She will be a great leader for the church. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWCdJfcltBwTEGaze0mqUCsMVPLlSww55sT06wP26LutZVpn5BfgZ8kR_CZAxk3o0RiMjLBTZ7TM9-3STx2Vz6rLIKjgAKgxJyu1_v-yTPb4mPRqvWu_YdeHisFHac9rTKiBLzR7lxYbmF/s1600/19Oct2014.17.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWCdJfcltBwTEGaze0mqUCsMVPLlSww55sT06wP26LutZVpn5BfgZ8kR_CZAxk3o0RiMjLBTZ7TM9-3STx2Vz6rLIKjgAKgxJyu1_v-yTPb4mPRqvWu_YdeHisFHac9rTKiBLzR7lxYbmF/s1600/19Oct2014.17.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Last FHE at Bishops house and with SOOOOO many of the people I love and people that have made my experience here in Ormoc terrific! I love these people and will miss them so much!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii2By7I7KTmgsHddt49Y3K9JtCUQ3-UxqGiZbwPZXqNeGzFv_g-VK_KzSa2UvoIZg4JqEEFOanOukZJJOmtk6kaKn00JAnYgCDdul3jYKIFAQ9bjo7IoszVCqBoif_2E58XYd5swAxgo7E/s1600/19Oct2014.18.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii2By7I7KTmgsHddt49Y3K9JtCUQ3-UxqGiZbwPZXqNeGzFv_g-VK_KzSa2UvoIZg4JqEEFOanOukZJJOmtk6kaKn00JAnYgCDdul3jYKIFAQ9bjo7IoszVCqBoif_2E58XYd5swAxgo7E/s1600/19Oct2014.18.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">My amazing companion had everyone sign this shirt for me and Elder Azuela my batch did the design on the front. Our sisters at the house threw a party for me when we came home from my last day of work. I feel so loved!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1cd27GtrSBIwttY2j29Y-COBtxZ5KQvRUR7jhmi1Z6sssKP8XC-GfuWNdG67jKrCUDr__v6uK2G9nAfByH7pRFstLjZufSTIqYMFqva6X0nPOyOa2E_SRJMmxY2sMh_8u9gLF3oFYySb5/s1600/19Oct2014.19.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1cd27GtrSBIwttY2j29Y-COBtxZ5KQvRUR7jhmi1Z6sssKP8XC-GfuWNdG67jKrCUDr__v6uK2G9nAfByH7pRFstLjZufSTIqYMFqva6X0nPOyOa2E_SRJMmxY2sMh_8u9gLF3oFYySb5/s1600/19Oct2014.19.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">No better way to celebrate on a Sunday than with Beer haha, haha, JOKE! I promise its Root beer and I regretted drinking it-- I forgot how much carbonation is in those things.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSl433BceFFnXXxmj33NOXqaWID3gZks-GjfIxmYQs-UynhqFQ4stH-e9N_nr6XiCeE0xjErvxHrQXECRiYp-2Ay9XG92SUaYjmvfz_WcPV2pytX64jHJ4C9XMpuk973GTxY9rr1uK2O6G/s1600/19Oct2014.20.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSl433BceFFnXXxmj33NOXqaWID3gZks-GjfIxmYQs-UynhqFQ4stH-e9N_nr6XiCeE0xjErvxHrQXECRiYp-2Ay9XG92SUaYjmvfz_WcPV2pytX64jHJ4C9XMpuk973GTxY9rr1uK2O6G/s1600/19Oct2014.20.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Sister Vea, Me, Sister Besiera, Sister Adasme... I love them!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPduPmbp-7hxQmJW9O38k9ZOtlXFJs89MuNMEeZ1qAlacJ2k6jPtc1klHqyfctkXt8XgLF13-CmeaWT_hTbS4gbaYWotmlfCXw-AniIgjJKsWfjni3XWvhbaZ-VpmHZT6J-xor_Uhn_7HB/s1600/19Oct2014.21.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPduPmbp-7hxQmJW9O38k9ZOtlXFJs89MuNMEeZ1qAlacJ2k6jPtc1klHqyfctkXt8XgLF13-CmeaWT_hTbS4gbaYWotmlfCXw-AniIgjJKsWfjni3XWvhbaZ-VpmHZT6J-xor_Uhn_7HB/s1600/19Oct2014.21.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">My Bishop in the parade (the one in the middle). This is why I was late to get on today. I was having A BLAST watching the Tugob Parade. It was sooo much fun! The mayor gave me a hat and I am BURNT!!! Another wish of mine before I went home. Everything I have wanted I have gotten! I am so spoiled!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbWcVnpRVHFVmcX-v8fplMtjSxqzkSK6GW_2I_rYdbZR51enqow6hdU0Dc_QsGSBGoiMeI5bazoSWwmKSbp_RVj6w5yYEhpGWP0qMKaIjVH47izneS0X1-NDqbZZGGoxUDo6DBCEjLCa7P/s1600/19Oct2014.22.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbWcVnpRVHFVmcX-v8fplMtjSxqzkSK6GW_2I_rYdbZR51enqow6hdU0Dc_QsGSBGoiMeI5bazoSWwmKSbp_RVj6w5yYEhpGWP0qMKaIjVH47izneS0X1-NDqbZZGGoxUDo6DBCEjLCa7P/s1600/19Oct2014.22.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">We had so much fun!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-2xL63yowG2449dOwKckPFWqZVKpKM6lIv4ubeA_GTgH0v9NtJIylDP_yssTQMlXidf24q6truzA8RozNbEPVYDURXrFUYfeF3Wkwgr25eHoojrmuqTolEVoAZcD82sDCwyw0_HD7Mg-l/s1600/19Oct2014.23.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-2xL63yowG2449dOwKckPFWqZVKpKM6lIv4ubeA_GTgH0v9NtJIylDP_yssTQMlXidf24q6truzA8RozNbEPVYDURXrFUYfeF3Wkwgr25eHoojrmuqTolEVoAZcD82sDCwyw0_HD7Mg-l/s1600/19Oct2014.23.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is one of the street dancers that we saw in the parade... SOO much fun! <br />Well worth the sunburn.</span></td></tr>
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Hahahahaha you wanted pictures right? SAMUEL.... I love you!<br />I honestly have no idea what the parade was for, haha. But it was big and way fun. It's still going on but we have to go. <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia92F34F6wQIw0qYljhN7KGN4N0_a8atq6K0O-GAVPh2FN198tMe3H-rgr_EIp6OD2Y_1oj1K3rv7qttRWudwZW2QvctpDNZYbBMs57tcV8OltiBDELTtOyE5SmaKPMFQzfOlhW9WfrU6V/s1600/19Oct2014.24.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia92F34F6wQIw0qYljhN7KGN4N0_a8atq6K0O-GAVPh2FN198tMe3H-rgr_EIp6OD2Y_1oj1K3rv7qttRWudwZW2QvctpDNZYbBMs57tcV8OltiBDELTtOyE5SmaKPMFQzfOlhW9WfrU6V/s1600/19Oct2014.24.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">More dancers.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMt8DTzfCcrou8W2IXhWB4sLMS_oIBa3nXaIg6Je4uxndad4p5BBElHmYAPwrPOdkKNjtmUXdmyuLmBfDaZjgudRxFpNs_MQMjc6Tjq2Ep99P_qaqmUxRK8b1cshxAnm5qmNXm45VvYQRj/s1600/19Oct2014.25.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMt8DTzfCcrou8W2IXhWB4sLMS_oIBa3nXaIg6Je4uxndad4p5BBElHmYAPwrPOdkKNjtmUXdmyuLmBfDaZjgudRxFpNs_MQMjc6Tjq2Ep99P_qaqmUxRK8b1cshxAnm5qmNXm45VvYQRj/s1600/19Oct2014.25.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">I know the hat is totally inappropriate but I was dying of heat and the mayor specially gave it to me. It seemed to make lots of people smile, haha, I don't even like hats. I look like a boy with them -sacrifice, haha.</span></td></tr>
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haha cge. Thanks mom. I really do forget. My bishop told me he reads my blog right now.... TALK ABOUT PRESSURE! He is such an amazing man... he told me in his little speech to me at my farewell that he see's how much I love my mom and he hopes that his daughter will be just like me. AH!! Threw me to tears. I love him so much! He is a convert of 10 years, I think.<br /><br />Any other ideas before I leave? It's not hitting me at all, mom. Is dad there?<br /><br />Haha, mom I have really no idea if I can email you again before I leave. I will ask president and let you know if I can but I will be fine. I plan on doing all my crying on the plane by myself to WA, hahaha. Your missionary is good, dad, not ready to give up the name tag but being SUPER blessed that I don't know what to do with myself. <br /><br />Mom and Dad... It's about that time. I need to go. I CAN'T WAIT to see you and I'm so excited and thankful for your support and love and everything. Thank you for allowing me to serve a mission and experience things that money can't buy. I'm eternally grateful. I'm coming home to help now just wait! I love you both so much!!<br /><br />Kita kits or See you soon (=<br /><br />All My Love,<br />Sister Ralph
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-79873978044397226262014-10-13T11:29:00.001-07:002014-10-13T12:13:36.932-07:0012 October 2014 - Still excited<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7uxFDFAMVv0vBgkjkrpx3NS1Ryka13gp2Ws7cRNzY3sqNo-VGE85ys2WJPFNzwqOyHtcaBt-Po4HVZIQbeVISF3AwDcDBjjb-NPrSx9LKM2y89vHVwVxFlhVWAjTHTnumO5tRHH0UTy-9/s1600/12Oct2014.5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7uxFDFAMVv0vBgkjkrpx3NS1Ryka13gp2Ws7cRNzY3sqNo-VGE85ys2WJPFNzwqOyHtcaBt-Po4HVZIQbeVISF3AwDcDBjjb-NPrSx9LKM2y89vHVwVxFlhVWAjTHTnumO5tRHH0UTy-9/s1600/12Oct2014.5.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is me super excited in the wind outside of the Jessa house. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnj7wFDelAoBZ-nCYGJWn9L7_rBBWnCvAwA4FHhokbzBAiar0je78Y8L2IUazs253wEYb781XKRrqlq8Gv93N80jz1f6tK-1HVL6TFtxpEW6DsYqGRXgPKRJny8NXPygreHyCpoow68AeN/s1600/12Oct2014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnj7wFDelAoBZ-nCYGJWn9L7_rBBWnCvAwA4FHhokbzBAiar0je78Y8L2IUazs253wEYb781XKRrqlq8Gv93N80jz1f6tK-1HVL6TFtxpEW6DsYqGRXgPKRJny8NXPygreHyCpoow68AeN/s1600/12Oct2014.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is called lichon (spelling? baboy.)<br />This is the pinoy FAVORITE <br />of all foods and we as a stake partook and enjoyed.</span></td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpOlh3l1QyXkOrowNdezb5XhfYZOYpELRemnoGSEsk-M0VsHKTJi5h0ySdn3ldpVRhEX1LrNPaJVlixUpGFmtUX-8Vzd6lV2IYETlGJAm2yVInRjnBUAIVH2hYOANKolG-d5eGYyfRgBLc/s1600/12Oct2014.2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpOlh3l1QyXkOrowNdezb5XhfYZOYpELRemnoGSEsk-M0VsHKTJi5h0ySdn3ldpVRhEX1LrNPaJVlixUpGFmtUX-8Vzd6lV2IYETlGJAm2yVInRjnBUAIVH2hYOANKolG-d5eGYyfRgBLc/s1600/12Oct2014.2.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is a pinahan or a pineapple farm in my area.<br /> I always thought pineapples grew from trees. False. haha</span></td></tr>
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I'm sorry my message this week is not super exciting or long! AH!<br />
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Part of the reason why this week is not a CRAZY exciting story telling week is because I had to take these pills three times a day every day this week and they made my body go numbish and heavy and I always wanted to throw up and I could not sleep and it made my pee literally brown.... so this week was very much a test of enduring because it's from amoebas inside and she said no matter how sick you get KEEP TAKING the PILLS!! So I did and blah! It was not fun! I'm done now. I finished taking them on Saturday. I'm just glad it's over but I feel bad the week was not as awesome as I would have wanted.<br />
But we made it through. We got to go on exchanges this week which was an absolute blast! I got to meet new people and form new friendships and teach investigators that had burning questions. That's my FAVORITE part of teaching in the field is when investigators have sincere questions and we answer them through the Book of Mormon and you see that light come into their faces and it makes them want to ask more questions and see what else the book of Mormon can do for them. It's the BEST feeling in the world!<br />
Of course general conference was fantastic.<br />
I'm not slacking. It's more like I guess I expected to Want to get a bajillion lessons in every day and all of a sudden start screaming the message on buses and all that jazz... but I don't. I just want to keep doing what I am doing and be with the people I love here and help them understand and help my companion be ready and confident to train. It's hard to explain.<br />
Mom, I told my house mates about that time we went to watch Twilight in the theater and you fell off your seat because you freaked out..... how many years later and I STILL died rolling of laughter on the floor just thinking about it hahaha. Oh I love you.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn_y68x6rwcS_2V4BmX7txxyE3oH2tGoTlGaJKkRAEQzrMZ-He1Ih7opW1tD9O27xEtRLGfudiA9lBDv6_Yyg_Y7z09QWcsohchMNRN9TehSTY0yNNAkRTialXRUmAlYGfERssO1efwBZr/s1600/12Oct2014.3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn_y68x6rwcS_2V4BmX7txxyE3oH2tGoTlGaJKkRAEQzrMZ-He1Ih7opW1tD9O27xEtRLGfudiA9lBDv6_Yyg_Y7z09QWcsohchMNRN9TehSTY0yNNAkRTialXRUmAlYGfERssO1efwBZr/s1600/12Oct2014.3.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roberto</td></tr>
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This is Roberto again and he is sooo excited to be baptized. We taught him about the LOC (Law of Chastity) this week and the WOW (Word of Wisdom) and he smoked before and sometimes drinks on occasion and drinks coffee every day but he said he would give it up and he knew it was the right thing to do. Then we went on to teach about the LOC knowing well that he has a girlfriend right now but unsure of "how close they are" so we were just bold and told him the word of the Lord and were not ashamed of it. He immediately came out and confessed that he had a homo-sexual relationship before but he said that he knew it was a heavy sin and stopped. He really WANTS to keep the commandments of God. We were only able to teach him this last Tuesday but he still came to General conference all by himself, happy and smiling and so glad to be there. I love this kid so much! He has such a heart of gold.<br />
Elmer is the other guy we are teaching and we were not able to get to teach him as much this week too, and so we have to move his baptismal date back. He was sooo upset. We told him he would just join baptisms with Roberto and he was not happy about that at all. Way too far away. It was so amazing to see these two men have such a desire to change and to follow God and to learn and obey. I love these men and its so easy to see their unlimited potential that awaits them<br />
This little girl is Marianne... the picture you see is exactly how she is in ALL the lessons to everyone! She hardly speaks so we have learned much patience and we were THRILLED when she passed her interview yesterday and will be baptized on Saturday! woot woot! That's the only picture I have of her because she is soooooo shy. Really that's the reality of our lessons with her so I thought I would share a piece of reality, haha.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHhMrkcxwMqKcWb1xq4yfwsj4gNh0Nn_krkcPyL7MZfBH-bIUwD4gzQQtzZJBJj3tQS7J50TkPiksr74Y5MqjAGMIAbYLMigm1QhWWfJZbLkmy6PUBoz_fbTU6frqUPmILqPNsy55FJH9Z/s1600/12Oct2014.4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHhMrkcxwMqKcWb1xq4yfwsj4gNh0Nn_krkcPyL7MZfBH-bIUwD4gzQQtzZJBJj3tQS7J50TkPiksr74Y5MqjAGMIAbYLMigm1QhWWfJZbLkmy6PUBoz_fbTU6frqUPmILqPNsy55FJH9Z/s1600/12Oct2014.4.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marianne is super shy.</td></tr>
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Sister Kim is also getting baptized with her this Saturday and I should be able to make it.<br />
We finally started teaching Jessa who is the only member in her family who is not a member yet. All of her family are recent converts and have been praying for her to except the Gospel. She is 14 years old and it's been sooo rough trying to teach her because she is super shy. She likes the church but she was INC or Iglesia ni Cristo which is a HUGE church here .... you might have heard of him ... the founder was a MORMON general authority and went apostate obviously. Well they have churches EVERYWHERE here and she liked it and was baptized in their church, which her parents were not happy about at all! But she started going to both our church and INC and then.... their members started making fun of her for going to both churches... so we have been playing hide and seek for a while and she just does not want to get made fun of even though she wants to be baptized now with her family. Crazy life!<br />
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One of my favorite new investigators this week is Pedro. He is a 74 year old widower who lives with his daughter and grandchildren. We just met him on the street and he wanted to speak English because he is a retired seaman and so he knows English. He knows Cebuano but mostly speaks Tagalog. He was the first investigator that I have had on the mission who understood what his belief was as a Catholic. He had an understanding and faith but was open to our message. It was sooo crazy to watch the beauty of the message at the beginning as we taught him. He had questions and wanted to understand. By the time we got to explaining Joseph Smith though... there was this ...its hard to explain but he couldn't open his heart to see the truth. He could accept some. He said he truly believed that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God, but accepting what Jesus Christ answered - that no true church was on the face of the earth - was out of his reach. It was soo interesting to watch the spirit work in him. He is good. He is sweet and he plans on coming to church and we are excited for him to eventually understand and find the truth for himself. I love missionary work!<br />
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General Conference was great!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggRJF6pJoR4WMcdAZiA7bfQyfbqAyWydRKzNIwuRkdBrtlDSLhEwbSa5r7LUGk2kSsLplIfuQOQJqfvjy7mM-rnrVyJMhKYN9fC51tC5vPTWQfXP8f6WRnBHTldPD_Eh1njluQksmDkJI1/s1600/12Oct2014.7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggRJF6pJoR4WMcdAZiA7bfQyfbqAyWydRKzNIwuRkdBrtlDSLhEwbSa5r7LUGk2kSsLplIfuQOQJqfvjy7mM-rnrVyJMhKYN9fC51tC5vPTWQfXP8f6WRnBHTldPD_Eh1njluQksmDkJI1/s1600/12Oct2014.7.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">A few more fun parts of the Philippines. </span></td></tr>
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I loved conference! Even though Holland's talk was unexpected and not normally something that would cause my heart to burn, my experiences here in the Philippines put so much more meaning and love behind his message and I lost it during his message. I too have NO IDEA what it is like to be poor and I am humbled that I have been called to preach and share this message with those many thousands here who are. I love these people with everything that I am. I wish I was better at expressing that love all the time, but I am trying. These people have changed my life for good. <br />
Mom, I do not know exactly what is happening next Monday so don't wait up for me huh? I might be on at normal time I might not get on at all. I'm not sure.<br />
Next week I will be in Tacloban on Monday and Tuesday, Wednesday in Manila and Thursday I will leaving in the morning and get home in the morning on Thursday. First time in my life I get to go back in time! MAGIC!! Well Dad, Mom, I love you both so much! You should be getting a letter here soon let me know if you get it. I love you, thank you for being there for me always! One more week in the WORK OF THE LORD! I'm excited and happy! Take care! All My Love!<br />
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Sister Sarah Ralph</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-68435927332846055912014-10-06T11:47:00.003-07:002014-10-06T11:47:23.549-07:005 October 2014 - Making Memories<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5MnoXIlwnMdCFPx7FegkGfNOU_vJy4Ivo3jtzmIIayuriY3nFYdHGeIpQcz7dZ-uMMyK_dm2ayw07O-DLdFRwv2w2b2rfIULT2WxQ6_1luDxjBK_IM5hViVWafl90Vi-OVNdFjR76eRSq/s1600/5Oct2014.3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5MnoXIlwnMdCFPx7FegkGfNOU_vJy4Ivo3jtzmIIayuriY3nFYdHGeIpQcz7dZ-uMMyK_dm2ayw07O-DLdFRwv2w2b2rfIULT2WxQ6_1luDxjBK_IM5hViVWafl90Vi-OVNdFjR76eRSq/s1600/5Oct2014.3.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is a rice field right before they harvested. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx_8aQs4lrax-RRvFuz4UUC0kjh0epuFtvz6-p02E65pTmCMANzdoqlHDAmhe3_p9EiyFC-_qK58db9Bewa6XSBYr_CvbfqgX4q8MJ67_QwxphUQUBaBoTIIcOl8MV6hUOAS3m-4jLNdkF/s1600/5Oct2014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx_8aQs4lrax-RRvFuz4UUC0kjh0epuFtvz6-p02E65pTmCMANzdoqlHDAmhe3_p9EiyFC-_qK58db9Bewa6XSBYr_CvbfqgX4q8MJ67_QwxphUQUBaBoTIIcOl8MV6hUOAS3m-4jLNdkF/s1600/5Oct2014.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This woman's name is Pising. She is the tallest sweetest old lady-- <br />look her hands are almost as big as mine! Amazing! I love her!</span></td></tr>
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Ok a few things that happened this week... we taught brother Canoy again (the witchcraft brother) and I am not sure if we are going to go back very much. He was talking about how the Book of Mormon is God's revealed word and works but that there is others he has which are not revealed. He tried to do a healing hand reading thing on Sister Besiera and its just plain out weird. When we went back this weekend he was drunk so we could not teach. Soo.. we will see what happens.<br /><br /> In the same neighborhood we met with one of our new, new investigators who told Sister Besiera that there was a LOT of "chismis" or gossip going around that we as missionaries are liars and all that junk and Sister Besiera broke down in tears. I'm still helping her get use to the life of a missionary. But I felt kind of bad that it didn't even phase me.... It's never been in my nature to "care" what other people think of me (that sounds terrible.)<br /><br />Ok let me tell you about a few people we met this week.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaoisJfWJQCFpvR3zvQbGhgQqm8QT4sGODThH3La6C9boh4sJDN5acvuB3P3ObPKBZeEE87HrDxwo2lbFd04E9rPOkupphgUhs5kURzUl4nNbfO3qoYANQsReJIJ_8rE6psr_ZIAOJGATN/s1600/5Oct2014.1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaoisJfWJQCFpvR3zvQbGhgQqm8QT4sGODThH3La6C9boh4sJDN5acvuB3P3ObPKBZeEE87HrDxwo2lbFd04E9rPOkupphgUhs5kURzUl4nNbfO3qoYANQsReJIJ_8rE6psr_ZIAOJGATN/s1600/5Oct2014.1.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Roberto is the one in the black in the back. <br />We just met this family this past week.</span></td></tr>
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<br /><br /> First is Mari Lou she is a new house help of members in our ward. We met her and she said she would like to be taught. She is 27 years old and has four children, one died not too long ago due to pneumonia. The first time we went to teach her she was home alone and she just broke down to us in tears. She was so upset but was trying so hard not to cry and saying its ok "I can do, I can do it". She opened up to us that her husband when he is drunk beats her and she showed us the bruises on her body. It was so, so sad and set a completely different tone to the lesson. The spirit was so strong as we testified of families and eternal joy. When we got to the end of the lesson and were talking about the Book of Mormon and prayer she picked up her Book of Mormon and held it close to her heart. She said she had something she wanted to tell us. She went on to say that the night before she was crying and crying and could not sleep. Alone in her room she decided to pick up the Book of Mormon and pray. She told us that when she did, she almost saw a light in her mind and felt like someone was holding her. She held the Book of Mormon even tighter and said she knows God answers prayers and she wants to read the Book of Mormon. It was a beautiful sacred experience to teach her and we both love her so much already. She is so easy to love. She goes home on the weekends though and though she expressed real desire to come to church, she did not show up... so we are slightly nervous. Prayer. We pray and pray for her and hopefully we will teach her tomorrow.<br /><br />MOM!! Ready for the real part of the email????<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-WRErNpfWOa7nFLRo4o7rM8r3Z5g9nCEoH38kxv06xEgSMgbQ93kxlw_66-boyJsN9Ib94m-Uy0mYyIqFJJ0MXcSuXzert0UgGJQkASt-ivo-bQtD7_syKCxUpDkmvjHvRPui0jERSkS/s1600/5Oct2014.2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-WRErNpfWOa7nFLRo4o7rM8r3Z5g9nCEoH38kxv06xEgSMgbQ93kxlw_66-boyJsN9Ib94m-Uy0mYyIqFJJ0MXcSuXzert0UgGJQkASt-ivo-bQtD7_syKCxUpDkmvjHvRPui0jERSkS/s1600/5Oct2014.2.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"> I love construction pictures because I could never do this in America.</span></td></tr>
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I KNOW that God answers prayers. I also know that God has a ridiculous sense of humor. Sometimes our humors are not always the same but I'm learning to catch on.....<br /> We had weekly planning on Thursday where my companion expressed her desire to have every day be MEMORABLE before I go home. In her closing prayer she then requested to our Father in Heaven that each day is memorable. .. that night we get back from work and as we are getting ready for prayer to do our daily planning... my companion looks at my head and ..... SISTER RALPH! ... you have lice. Haha so for the next 2 hours my companion picks my head like a monkey while I just laugh and laugh and laugh and laugh. I was quite pleased at how I was not upset or annoyed. I just took it as a direct answer to prayer and asked my companion kindly to be more careful with her requests next time, haha. I love missionary life! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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They don't really have mayo here mom but I bought this shampoo and have used it three times and will use it every other day till I leave. My companion has been looking at my head each day and night and this morning she did not see anything, Not even an egg but I'm not taking chances. It will be fine. We have a good of a comb as we could get but it doesn't work well and my hair is too long, haha haha.<br /> Oh great!! good to know.... well..... I wash my hair right after I let it sit in my head is that bad? Great... haha NOW I'm nervous. haha, joke. It will be fine. I took my first de-worming pill this morning..... ahh!<br /><br /> Also mom just FYI I'm literally coming home with like 3 skirts.... that's it. I cannot COUNT the number of women who have asked me for my clothing. It's RIDICULOUS!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Elders at FHE at Bishops house (=</span></td></tr>
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<br /><br /> Oh boy. This is exciting. Well.... 2 weeks to go. I am fine during the week when we get to stay busy with work. The only hard part is at church when EVERYONE talks about me going home and I just get overwhelmed.... so God is kind and let me have general conference this weekend. I'm so blessed (= <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /><br /> I did not see anything of General Conference yet. We will watch conference this weekend and Woman's Conference, I will have to watch when I get home.<br /><br /> Thanks Mom and Dad! I love you both so much! Sleep well and we will chat next week (= <br /><br />All My Love,<br /> Sister RalphUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-74188356801302348362014-09-28T21:35:00.003-07:002014-09-28T21:41:58.216-07:0028 September 2014 -- Less than a month to go<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvBVTO6-As_ZggOHmwK_fIklDhpW8hCx7cIatFnQiOaofuEgnpbWrOp3K2c3EKjoWvdNbVV_5-iEpdIstm_Nr6veb43BaukCqt_P3ZHSYkIvPt3n1Cu-vHochnD6bdCIeImKtVyFsmRfcb/s1600/28Sep2014.1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvBVTO6-As_ZggOHmwK_fIklDhpW8hCx7cIatFnQiOaofuEgnpbWrOp3K2c3EKjoWvdNbVV_5-iEpdIstm_Nr6veb43BaukCqt_P3ZHSYkIvPt3n1Cu-vHochnD6bdCIeImKtVyFsmRfcb/s1600/28Sep2014.1.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom, I got the banner in the mail. It was perfect timing so thank you so much. I needed it. It was right after I found out I was flying alone to go home and I just kind of lost it and it was what I needed to kind of pick me up again.</td></tr>
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As for our trip last week, I honestly do not know why I need to be finger printed. Security I guess. All the foreigners who are going home...This is hilarious because we were at the airport in Tacloban and the guy at the scanning machine goes through Sister Sousa's bag and finds a tampon and takes it out and stares at it and asks what it is and keeps playing with it. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTR-hiH2JDp1gy2WJcymR2VO9U-zcfUK-Fbd6GAJH9HaGGBwj_KBWWVOr2yKtblQ1jquFYycKr6xHaHlobMtIYzQ91mbTYsRVcvvZGVKnZLDBpHs5S8hZhm7YmMih11p7-FgeQXkcsOhD2/s1600/28Sep2014.3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTR-hiH2JDp1gy2WJcymR2VO9U-zcfUK-Fbd6GAJH9HaGGBwj_KBWWVOr2yKtblQ1jquFYycKr6xHaHlobMtIYzQ91mbTYsRVcvvZGVKnZLDBpHs5S8hZhm7YmMih11p7-FgeQXkcsOhD2/s1600/28Sep2014.3.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Airport Security check</td></tr>
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I had to take a picture because we were all dying of laughter trying to explain what it was to him at a security entrance, hahaha, they don't have them here, haha. Good times.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSkOkX5ltIHZdvx9Rf4P8lfCRPR9584UwgWLnYM183q0pLLBw5Dt0WbS-iNlbqDLNCdsNv-C-0KtY_Cv6PuHA8B2sAUFq5J4BHmgU2Fbas3oojdYpfNU_3xZ-31geSKhUq3I9az91rjty9/s1600/28Sep2014.2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSkOkX5ltIHZdvx9Rf4P8lfCRPR9584UwgWLnYM183q0pLLBw5Dt0WbS-iNlbqDLNCdsNv-C-0KtY_Cv6PuHA8B2sAUFq5J4BHmgU2Fbas3oojdYpfNU_3xZ-31geSKhUq3I9az91rjty9/s1600/28Sep2014.2.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My batch and my babies (anaks).</td></tr>
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It was sooo much fun to be in Tacloban with my anaks- I have a picture of all my posterity and I am so proud of them. They are the hardest working missionaries and just doing WORK! Manila was ... quick and good. It was nice to talk to my batch but it was like we were going home and I did not like that. <br />
But I got to sit next to a man on the plane and taught him the whole first lesson and gave him a book of mormon and he was really interested and asks fantastic questions so I REALLY loved that. Missionary work is the best and its SOOO much better when you know what you are supposed to say hahah. Missions are the best! The man I met on the plane is from Samar and I got his number and am following up with him. It was so fun being able to turn pages in the Book of Mormon for him to read to answer his questions... that is what is one of my favorite feelings in the whole world.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">These are my two children in the Tacloban mission, the other is still in Bacolod but she writes me and is doing wonderful. I can't tell you how proud I am of both of these sisters. They have changed my life so much.</span></td></tr>
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I learned a lot about love this week. My anak is the one who reminded me. I just let Satan get in for a second and let me believe that I was not having success in the area because I was doing something wrong and I did not love my investigators the way I should. I did a lot of pondering and praying and I am back! I do love my investigators; I love them so much... I just need to express that love through patience. I am NOT the most patient person in the world and Heavenly Father is giving me MANY opportunities to improve. Patience is one of the most beautiful ways to express love though and I am excited to improve.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The trip to Manila to be finger printed. All the missionaries going home in the next transfer.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6PSN-AmzoS4WpoQrfG6tD3QdmqywfMbMvLzO1OvZ7OLWMYLCp41D0AGXIIMt3lf67lMtDvR_QplWdmx3whC8jgMN0DxQqrAMQcJsciOQrYAT98tEw8F3uYxL8t32uOtr38j1t5oRb_8hx/s1600/28Sep2014.5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6PSN-AmzoS4WpoQrfG6tD3QdmqywfMbMvLzO1OvZ7OLWMYLCp41D0AGXIIMt3lf67lMtDvR_QplWdmx3whC8jgMN0DxQqrAMQcJsciOQrYAT98tEw8F3uYxL8t32uOtr38j1t5oRb_8hx/s1600/28Sep2014.5.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"> This is in Manila. This is the president of Mexico. <br />We had no idea why he had a giant statue in Manila <br />so we took a picture. </span></td></tr>
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<br />
This week was crazy because of the Tacloban-Manila trip but still good. We are teaching so many of Niko's relatives now and I LOVE IT! Because it means that Niko will have a stronger foundation and support to stay strong in the church. His house is chaos and then when we show up and teach it's just pure peace and their faces just glow and they eat up everything we tell them,. We taught his aunt about the word of wisdom and she mentioned how she noticed that Niko stopped drinking coffee (I can't tell you how happy that made me.) She was eager and anxious to follow and claim those blessings for herself AND she came to church! Her name is Melyn and she is just a BEAUTIFUL woman and I'm exciting to teach her and help her apply the gospel in her life. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgwZS-jzqJRUOPCklUKHDRygqVu03U91mr4uPzI14Gp_fKCbcWlJrAnHWQQbK0RCt5w0dgbbl6gtCEjvcSAdH17yxv40R4HmbtrnzcwlBr85pypd9RBR5lbzhWY-9JYkFdI-Spkk7KAMhz/s1600/28Sep2014.8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgwZS-jzqJRUOPCklUKHDRygqVu03U91mr4uPzI14Gp_fKCbcWlJrAnHWQQbK0RCt5w0dgbbl6gtCEjvcSAdH17yxv40R4HmbtrnzcwlBr85pypd9RBR5lbzhWY-9JYkFdI-Spkk7KAMhz/s1600/28Sep2014.8.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"> This is Niko, Me, Melyn, Judith (investigators) and Sister Besiera</span></td></tr>
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We finally were able to start teaching Elmer and we committed him to baptism on October 18th and his response was "YES, what time?" Hahahahahahaha it was like he did not have to give it a second thought. He has come to church for over a month now with no support or anything. I simply met him on the street one time and he just loves the way he feels and the message of the Restored gospel. He is a gem and I am so excited for him. He wants to serve a mission (=<br />
<br />
Mom, I need to go but I LOVE YOU SO MUCH! Thank you for being patient with me. Tell dad I love him. Excited to talk to you next week. Stay safe! I love you so much!<br />
<div>
Sister Sarah Ralph<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjko1EK1gtNRVUxSMkCYuHXEkSlm1QwlbAr6w9wl8Me8tEH16gIMZM84KI7r6N7hSPqqO5EOy2QjptjH-z7-TaG1tHxz3SUOEdhTc45dPIef_fHZrOKUJSAAfVKDlyaolZ5DJl8kEryTs_N/s1600/28Sep2014.7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjko1EK1gtNRVUxSMkCYuHXEkSlm1QwlbAr6w9wl8Me8tEH16gIMZM84KI7r6N7hSPqqO5EOy2QjptjH-z7-TaG1tHxz3SUOEdhTc45dPIef_fHZrOKUJSAAfVKDlyaolZ5DJl8kEryTs_N/s1600/28Sep2014.7.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is my posterity (= woot woot. I'm a great grandma (=</span></td></tr>
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</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-64199609304321457352014-09-22T11:00:00.004-07:002014-09-22T11:07:07.721-07:0021 September 2014 -- Pix from the Philippines<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK_62JwWPnNtPO-sqWct72GbYpEZ-8LV3qLwZgkUWvu_nv2PCVNKt1bi3Z9Q9JFI5H1DAPKA6GNtzm04TVAYOdRynLIyCjJ1MAV_OHOaEmXt6Kej1DOuUCGd_plMoFoIovGQ2UiS05SKRd/s1600/21Sep2014.11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK_62JwWPnNtPO-sqWct72GbYpEZ-8LV3qLwZgkUWvu_nv2PCVNKt1bi3Z9Q9JFI5H1DAPKA6GNtzm04TVAYOdRynLIyCjJ1MAV_OHOaEmXt6Kej1DOuUCGd_plMoFoIovGQ2UiS05SKRd/s1600/21Sep2014.11.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is my mission! This is what I love! This is who I AM!</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8IIU2k3iFJDhMDpyQca9DYpen4-b84eOyoIDRD7SSiPiGx6BTL-MUEgMFfdc3RHUxY31je-Icma3R0k5Gdk7OBI8OId8-AiYERBk4WwNZ6UjfdFoGGfZ090ZQoL9Z8LBkgfaRZazEV-0v/s1600/21Sep2014.12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8IIU2k3iFJDhMDpyQca9DYpen4-b84eOyoIDRD7SSiPiGx6BTL-MUEgMFfdc3RHUxY31je-Icma3R0k5Gdk7OBI8OId8-AiYERBk4WwNZ6UjfdFoGGfZ090ZQoL9Z8LBkgfaRZazEV-0v/s1600/21Sep2014.12.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEDLQdXyqG9uRMPEtKhaWNZjpfNeIuYD9Vg-chnV5vbkpJzO9Z9fwfRbeToPGf4sP3pQBl3N2U75eS8CzhPpqBAsDDgHwppjcMGxorcnMcaCIxZrmvZ4qKo6LcxMkk0emeE-nYm1meix5E/s1600/21Sep2014.1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEDLQdXyqG9uRMPEtKhaWNZjpfNeIuYD9Vg-chnV5vbkpJzO9Z9fwfRbeToPGf4sP3pQBl3N2U75eS8CzhPpqBAsDDgHwppjcMGxorcnMcaCIxZrmvZ4qKo6LcxMkk0emeE-nYm1meix5E/s1600/21Sep2014.1.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is a picture of a hill near our recent convert's house.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBKQfJhCj5zcrRudDpOuqZmde2eFqUBr-rc_8DOdg2rznhF9L1dBQYGEuA1zYgtbCj9FKzJ_l4WaZQxfpmCSNSUAg6uenY4tnxnouyGN8UgoFCfAjkhj_rotr9JlM31t5waGCMyoOuc4OM/s1600/21Sep2014.2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBKQfJhCj5zcrRudDpOuqZmde2eFqUBr-rc_8DOdg2rznhF9L1dBQYGEuA1zYgtbCj9FKzJ_l4WaZQxfpmCSNSUAg6uenY4tnxnouyGN8UgoFCfAjkhj_rotr9JlM31t5waGCMyoOuc4OM/s1600/21Sep2014.2.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Me helping weed their corn.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQg7rIF2aggvuHLz77Xew_mmrbaw0ir-1XqOE_Kpna-YvqcYkAr3xB7xc4yFjy96VkBFgtwBHhXrqE7M_WynyvsAhkWMLScXjoSwv1Un2MGAnfuYc_1dR0frlDcBxHTw-X_ea7fzilUIYe/s1600/21Sep2014.3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQg7rIF2aggvuHLz77Xew_mmrbaw0ir-1XqOE_Kpna-YvqcYkAr3xB7xc4yFjy96VkBFgtwBHhXrqE7M_WynyvsAhkWMLScXjoSwv1Un2MGAnfuYc_1dR0frlDcBxHTw-X_ea7fzilUIYe/s1600/21Sep2014.3.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is Brother Canoy making a table.- investigator</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3C_sOnQcr5foXlq8miKdxTY-nu9Th3Fx1Wa36wPUemLhlRvWxFuv8nwWEi7GSzx6cRH1neBLwGnxKlHOwPQOF2RWpxPmawEqp5vPAqJmLco5g0IKacJ7VUHjZ9NJ8Blg7uEOynpthTCin/s1600/21Sep2014.4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3C_sOnQcr5foXlq8miKdxTY-nu9Th3Fx1Wa36wPUemLhlRvWxFuv8nwWEi7GSzx6cRH1neBLwGnxKlHOwPQOF2RWpxPmawEqp5vPAqJmLco5g0IKacJ7VUHjZ9NJ8Blg7uEOynpthTCin/s1600/21Sep2014.4.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">My companion and the Rafael little girls.</span></td></tr>
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Mom, I am really sorry that I could not warn you that I would not be on on time. I did not know that I was going to Manila until after last P-day. So I had to travel to Tacloban early, early this morning for a special training and then tomorrow super early my batch going home is flying to Manila for finger printing. <br />
I'm sorry I tried to think of any way I could contact you but I could not think of any way. So I am really sorry. <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrba6pBnprp-QJirQ8ckkLSJKaPP6aX6cnisR9fcQ4yB1_XNFMZBS-VHZQhPRKvpwYJaAhNRBO3Q8uzMdjSkHNAGlK2SCSDYAkgl7ETZEklOacJDZ589Bwr7qzaIqVSIONVSGq_F69ZOdb/s1600/21Sep2014.5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrba6pBnprp-QJirQ8ckkLSJKaPP6aX6cnisR9fcQ4yB1_XNFMZBS-VHZQhPRKvpwYJaAhNRBO3Q8uzMdjSkHNAGlK2SCSDYAkgl7ETZEklOacJDZ589Bwr7qzaIqVSIONVSGq_F69ZOdb/s1600/21Sep2014.5.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is me and Jerome playing. He loves my hands, my watch and especially my feet. He gets excited when I come to their house and it always makes me so happy! Tender mercies of missionary work</span></td></tr>
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Soooo... yet again I do not have a whole ton to tell you. I apologize, normally I look back at my journal to see what happened to give me an idea what to write about but I forgot my journal at the office sooo I am off of memory here and .... yea...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaMGx7upnC2qNo1CRAFIRHfCApgYDZnOcwF2fBEahkU3U9bwJz2ZUA_-rcjgFdoUy8XfFk2np7YOMwvnxxhcrZLpD106zcz5vD3_vdfeO5tRoGSgh4CtJBxjkvfmUY56O6K5JP_guqUsuE/s1600/21Sep2014.6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaMGx7upnC2qNo1CRAFIRHfCApgYDZnOcwF2fBEahkU3U9bwJz2ZUA_-rcjgFdoUy8XfFk2np7YOMwvnxxhcrZLpD106zcz5vD3_vdfeO5tRoGSgh4CtJBxjkvfmUY56O6K5JP_guqUsuE/s1600/21Sep2014.6.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is a member who is feeding her ducks with left over rice.<br /> It's a common Pinoy scene. The ducks are so ugly here. </span></td></tr>
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Ok, we are really focusing on finding new investigators this week and so far it has been a success. We have also found a few new less-actives that just popped out of nowhere and so we are excited to help them come back into the fold.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKiVlKHhNeKx_eQWczHwXYA0AyFkpj7-PiMEw2nE5OxRfMrGfo476WS9OaHG9wjpPqaIxKPz2SWXEFh0tHhXm15HifZIlAuKQjv7qmB5-Hbgmu67jeNabKsepp2pPsYurKF867hHQfyF_p/s1600/21Sep2014.9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKiVlKHhNeKx_eQWczHwXYA0AyFkpj7-PiMEw2nE5OxRfMrGfo476WS9OaHG9wjpPqaIxKPz2SWXEFh0tHhXm15HifZIlAuKQjv7qmB5-Hbgmu67jeNabKsepp2pPsYurKF867hHQfyF_p/s1600/21Sep2014.9.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is Niko dancing with the youth. <br />I cheered super loud for him like I would for my own brother. (=</span></td></tr>
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Let's start with Canoy... this is the witchcraft brother that I was not sure what to do, or how to handle. We went and taught him with a member and the first 5 minutes of the lesson he kept closing his eyes and doing this weird jolt thing... it's so hard to explain. But he told us that he was telling the spirits to go away. But he also said the spirits like us, it's just that he could not listen well with them around. So he told them to leave so he could focus and then the jolting stopped. Sounds weird but apparently that is very normal. We taught them about the WOW and invited them to church, not exactly sure what to expect. We were shocked and delighted when they showed up to church on Sunday as a family! Woot woot! You NEVER know. We also had a neighbor of brother Niko come to church, Sister Judith, she is really interested and has a sweet spirit about her.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivW_kFWpusqfpM0q0zLE1R2hBNEIe3KeTFqK9WzDc-_lTR9I3ttxONlJ152vzyF_wKJw95poLJjPWVhTNZ7v-oSM_kPmmDdnvEglfOlaa2-oI02mTzLhFwEjyCa563QboVUSMIHflwiKOt/s1600/21Sep2014.8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivW_kFWpusqfpM0q0zLE1R2hBNEIe3KeTFqK9WzDc-_lTR9I3ttxONlJ152vzyF_wKJw95poLJjPWVhTNZ7v-oSM_kPmmDdnvEglfOlaa2-oI02mTzLhFwEjyCa563QboVUSMIHflwiKOt/s1600/21Sep2014.8.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is Jayson. He was a less active but he is friends <br />with Niko and has not missed a Sunday <br />for over a month now. <br />I was so happy the ward made him a <br />big part of their dance performance for <br />family week this last Saturday. (=</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho1br1MazAsJPvCVvA8X7kK9zqK5b40RgsPXpJYn1Nvol3qPIuwrbdJ_v-be5DDbLaFeHKLa1kcfmkaN4KNT2nNgof8NscSDZQzH6J0NLzRc_BEDzS45r6p5m1qIbkW7mL700BhVmhyphenhyphenRFJ/s1600/21Sep2014.7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho1br1MazAsJPvCVvA8X7kK9zqK5b40RgsPXpJYn1Nvol3qPIuwrbdJ_v-be5DDbLaFeHKLa1kcfmkaN4KNT2nNgof8NscSDZQzH6J0NLzRc_BEDzS45r6p5m1qIbkW7mL700BhVmhyphenhyphenRFJ/s1600/21Sep2014.7.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Look at what I came home to. <br />Just waiting for me on my study desk.</span></td></tr>
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<br />
This week was family week and so the whole stake got together to celebrate and there was a dance festival.... I'm the ONLY tall white girl of a couple hundred people, they watched me like a hawk the WHOLE day. It was fun to have a couple of the Brothers from other wards come up and remember me from the CSP-they would look at me and say HEY you are still here! You are that strong one. Hahaha, Oh yeah... that's ME, the strong one, hahaha.<br />
We had an incident with one of my creepy stalkers this week. He was very Bold and it was very late and it's a good thing I'm BIG and not afraid to hit a guy or tell him what I think... UNLIKE my companion whose heart stops at most everything about men that she does not know or like. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWiuAcIlfNiVBUQYvKKt0O0L2GYImqaiLWcATzz1poIVOSGlO_2egEpz7AT-iImoR9Z0KMhH2q41voPRBdqFxznoK0yFCN8aTN-A5dxeomURyxW_vFs2uh1bqMzt-70-VxZnUhsCIugpP8/s1600/21Sep2014.10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWiuAcIlfNiVBUQYvKKt0O0L2GYImqaiLWcATzz1poIVOSGlO_2egEpz7AT-iImoR9Z0KMhH2q41voPRBdqFxznoK0yFCN8aTN-A5dxeomURyxW_vFs2uh1bqMzt-70-VxZnUhsCIugpP8/s1600/21Sep2014.10.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is Niko, Jayson and the De Los Reyes family that we teach. Brother was recently baptized and so it has been fun getting to know them and helping them strengthen their family and work toward being sealed in the temple.</span></td></tr>
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I had an experience this week that... ahh! It's so hard to explain over emailing. KILL ME! Basta- I already told you diba that Niko means the world to me. Well we went to his house one night this week and let me just say that....I VERY MUCH have taken for granted being raised in a home with parents that love me, a family that cares and kindness and love are expressed. I feel bad that I literally broke down in the middle of his house due to what I felt and saw- knowing that that is the life he lives and knows. How I love the gospel! How the gospel is a part of who I am, the way I was raised and the person I want to be. I love the gospel more than I have power to express.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpV_G6Ii-QHMm-y0qh-cx30xjNoqUyuyVQfee82pDp-_Td4qlO2BIpK79ZqhPcyXtBLlyifFEC7CHhkW2WqDYmAHUIpEKxx53SkAJADl9Y4xy6EQhTP2gxPt6wCv7s0zpb5r9MIF0bmMh9/s1600/21Sep2014.13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpV_G6Ii-QHMm-y0qh-cx30xjNoqUyuyVQfee82pDp-_Td4qlO2BIpK79ZqhPcyXtBLlyifFEC7CHhkW2WqDYmAHUIpEKxx53SkAJADl9Y4xy6EQhTP2gxPt6wCv7s0zpb5r9MIF0bmMh9/s1600/21Sep2014.13.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is the Tunada family that I love.</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYgTR_bcbqtwcnYhqPcN2K8Kkw7xEYYrd8etViZ-C3y92byLG6alFsPgFbSkPhnyGR15cTmJnUYSBWUphNqwXnzV-Vx1ls61DCkPmpvRbcASPS_PlQ2OYOkvckjnafbSZ-NQ7hDQEGQqiV/s1600/21Sep2014.14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYgTR_bcbqtwcnYhqPcN2K8Kkw7xEYYrd8etViZ-C3y92byLG6alFsPgFbSkPhnyGR15cTmJnUYSBWUphNqwXnzV-Vx1ls61DCkPmpvRbcASPS_PlQ2OYOkvckjnafbSZ-NQ7hDQEGQqiV/s1600/21Sep2014.14.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
I was so blessed this week to have my personal studies be FULL of the spirit. My companion keeps calling me weird because I get up from my prayer after personal study and I just can't stop smiling- I just LOVE the spirit and the Book of Mormon, I'm learning what it means to really feast on the words of Christ and what it means to be FULL and I LOVE IT! I love missions! I LOVE every day, I love the trials. I just love love! People keep reminding me that I am going home soon but honestly I just don't think about it... I'm a missionary! I love EVERYDAY and I am grateful for everyday! Look at how beautiful these people are....<br />
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With Love,</div>
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Sister Sarah Ralph</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-28957951913105178802014-09-15T13:20:00.002-07:002014-09-15T13:20:56.818-07:0014 September 2014 -- Short and Sweaty<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKBPhtiy_lB0cX2jnE_cH2SCjBSgLCN_gvr6LMZbXsnyUE5noNG15irYyhWsLIjjKpHgQQ3xjc8pEtSWdEcYw22APBqpq8nILSVhHZS6r1suLeaWDFUlJ2VlVS5o5xxTiV2oNvAl1MovGO/s1600/14Sept2014.2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKBPhtiy_lB0cX2jnE_cH2SCjBSgLCN_gvr6LMZbXsnyUE5noNG15irYyhWsLIjjKpHgQQ3xjc8pEtSWdEcYw22APBqpq8nILSVhHZS6r1suLeaWDFUlJ2VlVS5o5xxTiV2oNvAl1MovGO/s1600/14Sept2014.2.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAYezq12_8LHMg3aV2nhrFXfW74kBgLd32_DaqpcpDiThiub_1q620_4Th76JTGWhsj5eXz4oeAP3-lmmWJX-o9I4xuhP1K7qVKtLbdBi6sWW-xJwLJbxvPkvX_zwUM9-KovC8l-AjfvK5/s1600/14Sept2014.1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAYezq12_8LHMg3aV2nhrFXfW74kBgLd32_DaqpcpDiThiub_1q620_4Th76JTGWhsj5eXz4oeAP3-lmmWJX-o9I4xuhP1K7qVKtLbdBi6sWW-xJwLJbxvPkvX_zwUM9-KovC8l-AjfvK5/s1600/14Sept2014.1.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sr Vea, myself and Sr. Dumas</td></tr>
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This is me with my STL's last transfer Sister Dumas and Sister Vea. STL's are like zone leaders kind of but only for sisters. They are not going home, Sister Dumas just transferred. I love them both. I look like a freaky AVATAR in this picture but it's the only one I have with them. <div>
<br /> AH! Mom, thank you so much for telling me about Samuel. Haha I'm crying... haha that makes me so happy. I was actually thinking a lot about Samuel this week and how special he is. We are so blessed to have him in our lives. I worry about him a lot. Does he have friends at school? I have thought a lot about volunteering at Cedar Heights and seeing if I can be there for him a little. Just thoughts though. I want to help you when I show up. I got news for the travels. </div>
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<br /> I have to send a picture of this frog because it's part of my companion's and my relationship, haha. We pass him every single time we go to Luna and it just looks so ridiculous we always just die of laughter. The guy, his name is Elmer, He is amazing. We have only taught him once due to his work but he has come to church by himself for over a month now. I just randomly met him on the street one time and he wanted to come to church. We are working on teaching him. Love him!<br /> I do not have much at all to write this week in terms of update. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiohe5vxsPw-rSUTlKBq3Y2Azl17lOBuVttcH5BYIw9mDMX9XQY5FWfkIhVNc_EpC76UVMEPFMJGgFrW1BgEOdBkcW-MYXSvbj3pYBdJr2PCPrvjvNJN-CgEiO49m8yJ0uXVmA2tWX3Kwj6/s1600/14Sept2014.3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiohe5vxsPw-rSUTlKBq3Y2Azl17lOBuVttcH5BYIw9mDMX9XQY5FWfkIhVNc_EpC76UVMEPFMJGgFrW1BgEOdBkcW-MYXSvbj3pYBdJr2PCPrvjvNJN-CgEiO49m8yJ0uXVmA2tWX3Kwj6/s1600/14Sept2014.3.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elmer and our frog.</td></tr>
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<br /> Tuesday was OK until night time came and for the first time since the storm I saw another dead person. He was walking along the road and it was a hit and run. His body was so mangled and I was sitting in the outside of the tricycle and we drove literally right by his body. Come to find out later it was actually a woman. It took a little time for me to recover from that but prayer does miracles.<br /> We taught a new family this week. They were good but I was a little scared. The dad told us that he does witchcraft. Obviously he did not say it like that but... he talked to us about the spirit and how he casts out spirits and he was SWEATIng like crazy and he told us it was because of the spirit. A lady came with money while we were teaching and it was obvious the reason she was there though they did not say anything. It was a moment of awkward silence when we were trying to get to know her, hahaha, but turns out she stayed and listened and is really interested in our message. Brother's little boy was kind of being noisy during the lesson and he kept closing his eyes and reaching out his hand over his sons head.... CREEPED me out! But we are going back because he wants to learn more and who knows what could happen. But we are only going back there in the day time, ha ha.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD0t14b18Z9uV1eG-KzDQ_peQ0kTJVQahlH3O8KW444zqJxQPw3VlS8vavIICaEXonS0ksZogsCu6L6OxlXKhjuD1ZcezjFx2K5coCLJDvPATpjFeR0DYzRdTrdVzbQCkcEBXzLD-m5i7t/s1600/14Sept2014.4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD0t14b18Z9uV1eG-KzDQ_peQ0kTJVQahlH3O8KW444zqJxQPw3VlS8vavIICaEXonS0ksZogsCu6L6OxlXKhjuD1ZcezjFx2K5coCLJDvPATpjFeR0DYzRdTrdVzbQCkcEBXzLD-m5i7t/s1600/14Sept2014.4.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /> This week we got punted A LOT, a lot.... meaning we went to people's houses and they were not there or busy or sleeping or...whatever reason we could not teach them. I have a feeling Satan is working really hard to get me discouraged right before I go home but there is NO way I'm letting him in. I wish we were having more success than we are BUT I still LOVE being a missionary and I love the work and the people and my companion and most importantly I love Who I represent. So we continue and pour out our hearts and leave the rest to the Lord.<br /> Mom, I am sorry I did not write much. I have more pictures to send but the computer is not working. So next week will have to do. Really sorry<br /> I'm talking to the mission secretary now. She said you are supposed to receive an email and me too so one second. Mom... did you tell Bishop that I want a topic for my talk? I checked the flight plans and they have me with all the other sisters going from Los Angeles CA and then to SLC. So I texted the secretary and she said YEP that's what it says and she thanked me for catching the mistake and she is working on changing it so I will come home TO WASHINGTON! But at least we have an idea for the time. (=<br /> I love you, mom. Keep your eyes open for a email from our secretary about my flight plans. At least we now know it will be OCT 23 that I will BE home. <br /> I LOVE YOU!!!!!!! Take care. Be safe!<br /><br />Sister Sarah Ralph</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-72225701576522723462014-09-08T14:39:00.001-07:002014-09-08T14:44:27.055-07:007 September 2014 -- Time is flyingMom! I love you! Did you like the "Maleficent" movie? I think ?? will be the new stake president too? I hope so. I'm scared of him but I like him, haha.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCgewkENTFUaMgXr5xbzr0bTPTU2fZ1SN5XLADKYPJqtBMRwo957snutJ17dQXs0fS80YtXVJhJnjxPxGPzJ7B4ilwZ4I7fzgT6vbVPe6HjAXEDzlJm-MtDbz-0FlZOxvNw-7oVkhMCZAi/s1600/7Aug2014.4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCgewkENTFUaMgXr5xbzr0bTPTU2fZ1SN5XLADKYPJqtBMRwo957snutJ17dQXs0fS80YtXVJhJnjxPxGPzJ7B4ilwZ4I7fzgT6vbVPe6HjAXEDzlJm-MtDbz-0FlZOxvNw-7oVkhMCZAi/s1600/7Aug2014.4.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
I can't believe there is ANOTHER new film in the temple! I'm SO EXCITED! That is like my number 2 thing on the list of what I want to do when I go home! I can't wait!<br />
JON GOING BACK TO BYU!!! AHHH!! I WOULD LOVE THAT!! When will he know?? <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdNArFOZ6J2pZkvDRbm1sAc7DaxRnp_0Ut0s-8jpJsYCsvhVZ6C5t1RIRxRhv7KIlVRstxehf5Io1UWoNMARGVQVSrE8hr8-nbqCj3_SKxRsHTnp-E4a9b7pvEPEOqjiLtuDE-crP_MAlA/s1600/7Aug2014.1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdNArFOZ6J2pZkvDRbm1sAc7DaxRnp_0Ut0s-8jpJsYCsvhVZ6C5t1RIRxRhv7KIlVRstxehf5Io1UWoNMARGVQVSrE8hr8-nbqCj3_SKxRsHTnp-E4a9b7pvEPEOqjiLtuDE-crP_MAlA/s1600/7Aug2014.1.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This picture is my favorite Boy in the world. <br />Niko is in blue and Jayson is in purple. </span></td></tr>
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Alright well let me tell you about my week...<br />
1. We had a meeting with our leaders and a new rule was made in that kids or minors are not to be baptized unless they have active parents in the church or they have gone to church for at least 6 months. This changed things up a bit and we got down and dirty with some parents pretty much telling them that we would not baptize their 11 year old daughter until THEY themselves started reading the Book of Mormon and coming to church. It was rough but necessary- lots of tears and disappointed little girls this week but we know its for their good. We want them to be ready to make convents with their Father and have that support system so they can endure. It was most depressing when we heard comments from parents like we will just wait till she is older to be baptized (so the pressure was not on them to be the example for the child) It broke out hearts but really brought to surface the commitment of these parents and what needed to change.<br />
2. We also learned that one of our less-actives is not coming to church because he was married before and has kids with his wife who is not the women (who is pregnant) and that we teach him with. Divorce is the closest thing to impossible in the Philippines.... so another Hurdle to jump.<br />
3. Almost all of our recent converts got sick this week. Sister Tunada's baby has sore eyes or called pink eye in America... it was so bad I wanted to cry and super contagious so we could not teach them. Then Sister Nildie was sick to the point where she was crying when we showed up- she was in so much pain. Then my crush-Jeromo Rafael the baby of our baptisms last week has been crying for days and throws up all the time and everything. He threw up even in our lesson till they took him to the hospital for three days. AHH! Thankfully we talked to them about how Satan would want them discouraged and would throw trials at them. So they almost expected this and it was so reassuring to listen to Brother Rafael make comments, while he is holding his little boy in the hospital say.... "test, it's just a test, we are ok, we endure". AH! I love him!<br />
4. More rats in the house. They are moving up into our rooms and making babies....YUCK!<br />
5. We found out that Niko's only guardian-grandma left for Manila and he is left here. He lives with his uncle but has no money so he was not able to go to school and we didn't know it till he told us one night that he had not eaten all day. He was so happy and excited to see us that we never would have known if we had not talked about his family. Broke my heart. I'm still not sure what to do to help him- he is only 14 years old. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4CsfPwLjAVodMCu_BpkipXcQZeUeQ-sIxuF6Wi0LML6uvaezQg7tFpy3q8fZTjYuCAkt_RszRB8J-zpUwP9Nia5yoTUi8aZ1KrmHFb0_TDZnXvNvjqsEO-iQBpw3kkSGLDWzBVEpEva0b/s1600/7Aug2014.2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4CsfPwLjAVodMCu_BpkipXcQZeUeQ-sIxuF6Wi0LML6uvaezQg7tFpy3q8fZTjYuCAkt_RszRB8J-zpUwP9Nia5yoTUi8aZ1KrmHFb0_TDZnXvNvjqsEO-iQBpw3kkSGLDWzBVEpEva0b/s1600/7Aug2014.2.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">The group picture is my zone at an activity trying to do a<br /> "food fight" but an American made the rice and it's just..... not the same.</span></td></tr>
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6. We got a new rule in the Tacloban mission that we cannot teach men of any age unless we have a companion with us that is 30 years old or older. ..... Yeah.... needless to say it's KILLING our work. We can't even teach Niko now. It's really hard to find people that age to work with you BUT we know blessings come from obedience and we are doing what we can. Trying to be patient (=<br />
About my blog, tell Brother Lee thank you. I honestly am so surprised people still read it at all. <br />
HIGHLIGHT OF THE WEEK!!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNtb2aKsf0UJqVGwAJHuaaBJaTfv3Qx0oqglS8x_KMbgcbc96Bof3UC3RaCIWhP4lThROdl6uG0NfQAUce7nxE0lpXnABocffe9XUYueVhdZgu7M8g0tfgbpr7MOGKouNXPx4ykRVsPFyP/s1600/7Aug2014.5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNtb2aKsf0UJqVGwAJHuaaBJaTfv3Qx0oqglS8x_KMbgcbc96Bof3UC3RaCIWhP4lThROdl6uG0NfQAUce7nxE0lpXnABocffe9XUYueVhdZgu7M8g0tfgbpr7MOGKouNXPx4ykRVsPFyP/s1600/7Aug2014.5.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Niko's baptism</td></tr>
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Niko was baptized. I honestly think of everyone I have ever met in my mission this kid has impacted me so much. He is becoming part of my motivation to be the BEST Return Missionary EVER when I get home. That sounds weird... but I just mean that I want to be SO FAITHFUL and so .... just someone he can turn to even if I am half way around the world. This kid has NO one, just bad influences but look at his smile! He is not the quickest kid in the world but when he does understand he just GLOWS! He wants to be a part of the gospel; he wants to be a member. He went from smoking and drinking at age 12 to this GEM of a boy who reads the Book of Mormon and wants to go on a mission. This boy has become a huge part of my life and honestly I'm scared to death to leave him. I'm trying so hard to build a foundation and a support system for him. Yesterday he was given the Holy Ghost and he just was so serious and THEN he bore his testimony in front of EVERYONE! I just cannot express how much I love this boy. He makes the words of Alma the Younger come alive for me when he is speaking to his sons. How proud I am of him and how I fast and pray that he will be strong, serve a full time mission and be sealed in the temple. I would do anything for that!<br />
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Transfers are this week but because I am training I'm 99% sure I am staying here- which I would love! And I found out my anak or my first child or missionary that I trained, just got done training and is training again and HER anak is training... So I am a GREAT GRANDMA!! AH! YES! So proud!!<br />
My companion is doing great! We love each other and just are learning so much and enjoying the mission. She is still learning how to enjoy it but it's coming for sure. We are working and focusing on our EXACT obedience.<br />
I told you about my leg, right? The infection is fine- just a scar now but I'm going to need some sort of therapy for my leg when I get back, haha. No cold, I'm fit as a fiddle. (= <br />
I'm emailing Benjamin and Jess, too. Tell EVERYONE HI FOR ME!!! Hi RUTH!! Happy Birthday Brian! WOW! GO BRIAN!! Movin up in the world. Brian save the sass for when I get BACK... you will need it. <br />
How is dad? Asleep? Are you ok with the email I sent?... cause.... that's about all I got. <br />
Mom, everyone says we look alike in your wedding picture that I always have with me. It makes me happy. I love you so much mom! You are the best mom in the world! I'm running out of time so I will let you go, but tell everyone I love them and some one please, find a time machine because these last 6 weeks are FLYING!!!! I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!!<br />
Tell the bishop, I want a topic and a calling or responsibility before I give a talk, haha. LOVE YOU! I LOVE YOU SO MUCH DAD!!!!<br />
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Sister Sarah Ralph</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-90549145432324799702014-09-02T15:21:00.000-07:002014-09-02T15:21:32.694-07:0031 August 2014 - Happy and Conflicted...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghd46G_oQqwXcjSrY-ig6O7hxKVeabrWwAHKnHpeqcLml71XjkzhOYyf4g4qdGxYTRn1vdKikYxClU643eT0NsroEGkx7qB5mtXAA0YAq0AGWCUGxyDqTZK_rsg6Ski33L3ncIIoxaoUIH/s1600/31Aug2014.10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghd46G_oQqwXcjSrY-ig6O7hxKVeabrWwAHKnHpeqcLml71XjkzhOYyf4g4qdGxYTRn1vdKikYxClU643eT0NsroEGkx7qB5mtXAA0YAq0AGWCUGxyDqTZK_rsg6Ski33L3ncIIoxaoUIH/s1600/31Aug2014.10.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
Haha, haha, I saw the picture (of Daddy and Ben sleeping at church). I love my family so much! I want to see them falling asleep in church. Mom I think the "end-of-mission"NESS is starting to kick in. I'm feeling.... SAMOK (chaos). No long email. Because I will cry if I type too much, haha, sorry. I will try for something. <br /> I'm healthy. I even stopped playing football in the rain earlier because I knew it wasn't safe and you would not like that.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Mom, I'm conflicted. I'm waking up. I'm hurting. I'm happy... and it makes me want to explode. At this moment... I just want you to hug me. AH! WHAT'S WRONG WITH ME? MOM!!!! I'm soo stinkin happy... so why am I BEING LIKE THIS? I'm scared. I'm scared of losing the sensitivity and the drive. Can you all just come here instead of me going home?<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Sister Tunada a recent convert who I love.</span></td></tr>
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<br /> I honestly have very little to write this week, It was an up and down week for sure. I went on exchanges with Sister Dumas and that was a lot of fun. I learned a lot from her and it was good to have someone to talk to about my fears and hopes. She is a sweetheart and it's weird because she feels like my little sister. I'm excited to get closer to many of these sisters after the mission. Mission is a nesting bed for lasting friendships. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKihBAa8i4BpAvqBECNYJDawfuAFgLzLFnbJx1NDHrzoU66TX8qyrdNi0ysVtXUWWvFbDCurkYB1k5hko09hur8ICRRFPlqYitt62aaw6R_gMe2vw6KQTswLeuaRnRKbyWlkrzLRQ93cyi/s1600/31Aug2014.8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKihBAa8i4BpAvqBECNYJDawfuAFgLzLFnbJx1NDHrzoU66TX8qyrdNi0ysVtXUWWvFbDCurkYB1k5hko09hur8ICRRFPlqYitt62aaw6R_gMe2vw6KQTswLeuaRnRKbyWlkrzLRQ93cyi/s1600/31Aug2014.8.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;"> This is Niko (= I love this kid with all my heart.</span><div style="text-align: start;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0CDbhDBHKmMTJIbwdR5QBHvnWwEjz-OuqcHMMVkeFR648s2KHqivBQdXhitDecoLBrz66m6JOf-d8YbI2wmaZ7D4uT_EzLANU2BYF-VsK-CtKPEPlJrFmH87ZQcDncBjWQV7ILwflUcqt/s1600/31Aug2014.3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0CDbhDBHKmMTJIbwdR5QBHvnWwEjz-OuqcHMMVkeFR648s2KHqivBQdXhitDecoLBrz66m6JOf-d8YbI2wmaZ7D4uT_EzLANU2BYF-VsK-CtKPEPlJrFmH87ZQcDncBjWQV7ILwflUcqt/s1600/31Aug2014.3.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Br. Eduardo Rafael</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Niko is our progressing investigator. He is my favorite boy, 14 years old and just has a heart of gold. Two days ago we brought him to the church and sat him down and his countenance changed from his normal bubbly self to sheer gloom. He would not even look at us or talk. It took some time before he confessed that he did not read the Book of Mormon the day before. He was so upset with himself. Wow! I love this boy! If all our investigators took their commitments as seriously as this boy does..... wow. Then we had to do the baptismal interview questions with him before the real interview with the district leader and when we asked him if he has committed a serious crime. He just put his head down and looked like he wanted to cry. He said, "yes". He said he "tubagtubag sa iyang nanay" which means he kind of back-talked to his grandma..... wow... my heart MELTED! This boy makes me so happy. He is the definition of how we need to be, more childlike. His baptism is set for next Saturday. </span><br /> <br /> This is Brother Eduardo Rafael Jr. who was baptized with his wife and sister this last Saturday. He is an incredible man. I love teaching him and his family more than anything in the world. In his testimony after his baptism he was emotional and said that before the missionaries came they never prayed... and now they pray all the time. They pray as a family every night. This man is a rock. He loves the Lord and wants so badly to raise his children in the ways of the Lord. He has blessed my life and I know he will enter the temple with his family in one year's time. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /> Nildie is the sister of Brother Rafael she is yet another ROCK! Actually she is braver than I think anyone I have met here in the Philippines. A few months ago there was an incident.... The details of the incident are not important but it led to a lot of gossip in the ward even with leaders about her husband. This woman just said 'It doesn't matter what they think, I know this is the right church and I go to church for God"...so even though she has to face these people who are saying unkind things about her... remember she is an investigator... not a member. She can look past all of the ugliness and see how the church is true despite the way people act or treat her. I love her soo soo soo much! She is a disciple of Jesus Christ. If people only understood the gospel like she does. She has made many sacrifices to come to church and is patient with the Lord and her family and is content with her simple life. Goodness I love these people so much!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPsn_Rxo7iBJMlN24rO8P1A_YmF_K4f9xlh1yq0dg6XNY2edhWCWLNNzklHKGQ_1eVwoQ4Vlk0shyWz2fYvs6neCBO_7zFa17ciaQ0qjdp1-tGCkdQvw-Ju7DD_e5wnmgMVcf6Uloy5McS/s1600/31Aug2014.4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPsn_Rxo7iBJMlN24rO8P1A_YmF_K4f9xlh1yq0dg6XNY2edhWCWLNNzklHKGQ_1eVwoQ4Vlk0shyWz2fYvs6neCBO_7zFa17ciaQ0qjdp1-tGCkdQvw-Ju7DD_e5wnmgMVcf6Uloy5McS/s1600/31Aug2014.4.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This other picture is Sister Sheila, she is a gem <br />and a ward missionary who works with us every week. <br />She is a ray of sunshine - as you can see <br />and we will be friends forever! </span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFU639Hp0RHK_4ATVjZB4Rqpirq9Zn6l9JqJQXv3TVw462FgtguO1Z5nvJjYLXZ6WrAjkchJ7VjKNHJYg5akyzYo4yJqSnAZN3KUeZIWXUR4G4Oedh_zdAwnN7AvxE3wraqVPfk9eizfK7/s1600/31Aug2014.7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFU639Hp0RHK_4ATVjZB4Rqpirq9Zn6l9JqJQXv3TVw462FgtguO1Z5nvJjYLXZ6WrAjkchJ7VjKNHJYg5akyzYo4yJqSnAZN3KUeZIWXUR4G4Oedh_zdAwnN7AvxE3wraqVPfk9eizfK7/s1600/31Aug2014.7.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br /> Yes, there were heartbreaks this week. We had quite a number of investigators who were not able or chose not to make it to church this week. It was rough, but we were thankful to be able to witness our investigators who received the Holy Ghost. Happy day!<br /> I had beautiful experiences this week. When I say beautiful I mean... I learned so much. And I know I needed the experiences for my spiritual growth but in the moment they hurt so bad. I love my mission and training at the end of the mission is the best thing in the world. I get to look back and see how the Lord has been there every step of the way. How he has answered every single one of my heartfelt prayers. I just had to trust in his time and in his way. My companion had a break down this week and it was a miracle to be able to open up my journal and read the words I wrote and compare them to the feelings of my companion. They were the same. And yet... now... the person or missionary I am now, is the exact opposite. My fears and weaknesses (not all obviously) have become strengths. I love missionary work, life and how the spirit truly is our constant companion. I just am the happiest person in the world!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPRjqQbon38aypYahKlBnes8T_YUjI-ChbTUQW8-tia4U2S-8ozvbseM7mSRqp0QhCZ8AV8Y2FWW8hdXwfgIpsgj8BXsjjM2wcNSGnEjCVa7m-tim3Qdfg3xQWNnlD7CmWhrkHmvvj62wl/s1600/31Aug2014.9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPRjqQbon38aypYahKlBnes8T_YUjI-ChbTUQW8-tia4U2S-8ozvbseM7mSRqp0QhCZ8AV8Y2FWW8hdXwfgIpsgj8BXsjjM2wcNSGnEjCVa7m-tim3Qdfg3xQWNnlD7CmWhrkHmvvj62wl/s1600/31Aug2014.9.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">That is Gino who left on his mission last week.</span></td></tr>
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<br /> <br /> <br /> My companion is still with me. She is great. She is very much a child, haha, so we learn a lot together. She is a huge blessing to me. She helps me see the blessings the Lord has given me. She is really coming along in missionary work and learning to deal with stress, haha.<br /> Mom, I love my life. Just yesterday something happened and I lost the spirit. I don't really want to talk about what happened but I just was so easily able to feel the difference in my life. The confidence, the peace of mind, the flow of language, the desire to open my mouth,... everything I have been blessed with on the mission went away in an instant. I had to pour out my heart in prayer before a portion of the spirit came back. I am learning.... I am learning how to recognize the spirit and learning to trust in the atonement. I believe now. I believe my Savior does love me perfectly and is ALWAYS willing to forgive me. I felt his embrace last night. I felt the joy that comes from repentance. I love the gospel. It is truly the only way for peace in this life. TRUE peace<br /> I will remember mom! You take care of yourself now-- you got 7 weeks to NOT hurt yourself. No accidents nothing ok? Deal? I love you! Thank you for talking to me. I really needed my mom today. I'm such a child. hahaha I love you mom! Sorry for the lame emails recently but just know that I am happy and I love what I am doing and I am learning so much! You are always in my prayers! I love you so much! Sweet dreams.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUVRqijvKySEeYQ3g2uD8Og9edIjpJDglUG50oEY-WrTPvDwuKiPyCJ5Ry4aWyw9bqF6_8QQokTvXW2AQ3ZBStxGgblSDLrVLnvjgx5JhiFdw_vZm0HlZxuamFf3Iq_HNcqDwvJZfjiVRC/s1600/31Aug2014.1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUVRqijvKySEeYQ3g2uD8Og9edIjpJDglUG50oEY-WrTPvDwuKiPyCJ5Ry4aWyw9bqF6_8QQokTvXW2AQ3ZBStxGgblSDLrVLnvjgx5JhiFdw_vZm0HlZxuamFf3Iq_HNcqDwvJZfjiVRC/s1600/31Aug2014.1.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"> The picture is my companion doing push-ups. <br />I make her do 20 every time she says she is ugly. <br />She is doing much better now. </span></td></tr>
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Sister Sarah Ralph</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-63994461997987914422014-08-26T13:45:00.001-07:002014-08-26T14:04:14.253-07:0024 August 2014 -- Missionary life in Pictures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I will tell you about the week but I am trying to get pictures out. Week was good. Still sick but "girl things" are making me weak and BLAH!<br />
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I lost all my pictures from before but I have a few pictures this week...I bought a new SD card<br />
I'm SO HAPPY and SO STRESSED AND HORMONAL!!! I just want to talk to you. .. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuxz4pHg5oKauSrFRKs7F2OJklXEbofzch1YMxynFpnqV35_QtJhlFRPUiTLm8vGSh3W_jG0balJjsb6xiKMXFMiCtsGgD1yBA0HKbAwpeLdyD5st4M_mQiuwgp3ucEYcLY7YdsPhuCENW/s1600/24Aug2014.3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuxz4pHg5oKauSrFRKs7F2OJklXEbofzch1YMxynFpnqV35_QtJhlFRPUiTLm8vGSh3W_jG0balJjsb6xiKMXFMiCtsGgD1yBA0HKbAwpeLdyD5st4M_mQiuwgp3ucEYcLY7YdsPhuCENW/s1600/24Aug2014.3.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is a picture of me breaking the rule of holding children but keeping the rule of service, haha. Sorry but this tiny little pregnant lady crossed the river carrying her child and was going to cross back to pick up her 2nd child... there was no way I was just going to watch her struggle... I picked up her kid and brought him across the river. I love the Philippines.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_L6o0m2s11PPeTJP9kI8-gYwELDohAFzg95M5flniRkNHYFyM4WCO6JvrDuRzugMHjNSr7CBLkegdF2LCRaED2Cx8C4A278dE4TBQ2dahvvKMhWq7dKiAOMTtEf4PJ4aXWfMKepxU3Cpi/s1600/24Aug2014.4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_L6o0m2s11PPeTJP9kI8-gYwELDohAFzg95M5flniRkNHYFyM4WCO6JvrDuRzugMHjNSr7CBLkegdF2LCRaED2Cx8C4A278dE4TBQ2dahvvKMhWq7dKiAOMTtEf4PJ4aXWfMKepxU3Cpi/s1600/24Aug2014.4.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is me with the kids in the ward that I LOVE! We play basketball sometimes. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">You will notice the lack of shoes on my feet. Welcome to the Philippines (= </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbKMuPNjenznkNvvTEe3Gx4rp67yWrj8D5mSxd7CZiheq400RW5C8zYjJFswiLH9xXFNRD9t_i6QIKPq57bdHBlHa3pQb4i0BisSAMcbEXO21LkOdkS3m20f2_7Y3N3ojjlxQ3ZPcS2pxi/s1600/24Aug2014.1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbKMuPNjenznkNvvTEe3Gx4rp67yWrj8D5mSxd7CZiheq400RW5C8zYjJFswiLH9xXFNRD9t_i6QIKPq57bdHBlHa3pQb4i0BisSAMcbEXO21LkOdkS3m20f2_7Y3N3ojjlxQ3ZPcS2pxi/s1600/24Aug2014.1.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is what happened after the farewell party for one of our members. <br />I brought the cupcakes and they LOVED IT! <br />Elder P got me so good right after this picture. <br />Yummy but sooo messy!</span><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">I had NO intention of smashing cupcakes...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"> they were delicious. But elder got me soooo good that it just started a </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">huge food fight and we all got nastied. </span><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"> </span></td></tr>
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This week was lots of meetings. We had zone conference and so President Maurer came and spoke to us. He asked me to give a talk on PMG (Preach My Gospel) and the theme of the meeting was the Book or Mormon. I was not worried because this talk was in English... I can handle that, haha. But so many blessings came from this experience. I just really wanted to express to the missionaries how much I LOVE the Book of Mormon and how it has, through my mission, become the rock of my life and it means the world to me. I did my best to express that to them in other words. That night while my companion and I were getting ready for bed I just was following up with her, asking her how she felt, how her mission is going up to this point etc. and she just BAWLED and cried an cried.... I was so nervous. I didn't know if I had done something wrong or if I had missed something or what. She went on to explain to me that she had never read the entire Book of Mormon but when I gave my talk earlier in the day she could see how I was so sincere and how it is part of who I am and I loved it so much. She cried and said she had never felt that way and hated that so much. She wanted to feel the same way about the Book of Mormon that I do. I did not know what to say... the only thing that came to my mind was ...I remembered. I remembered how before we were companions I fasted. I had fasted and prayed so very strongly that I would be able to be a blessing to my companion and that we would have a successful companionship full of love. I know that my prayers and fasting were answered. We are learning so much from each other and inspiring each other. I love My Heavenly Father. He is sooo soo good to me.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV5Lroh5l6ceEz7qjTdWJaGiPc9dmpjp1Ac6jiCo-o5VMX81F5y59JfjFReBe1WXeq4JOvlF-Q-RoT5i9YTEgF69ntIjgHGyr_zWpt9A3fasf9PkKNa3PkItrEKF-YLk1JEcXF2QfGhhoM/s1600/24Aug2014.2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV5Lroh5l6ceEz7qjTdWJaGiPc9dmpjp1Ac6jiCo-o5VMX81F5y59JfjFReBe1WXeq4JOvlF-Q-RoT5i9YTEgF69ntIjgHGyr_zWpt9A3fasf9PkKNa3PkItrEKF-YLk1JEcXF2QfGhhoM/s1600/24Aug2014.2.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This other picture when I am on the floor is a mini MTC we threw that I ended up pretty much being in charge of but didn't know until 20 minutes after it started. YES! Love my life!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga3Chct0BDOYhFAARviDcoA280r0I78-K54rIN8geMx0eMxmZZ-jiQYctnHQTWQzgeZcuXnKigntkuV90QeW_eDhayBurBA0V8caLvynxmalX7S-6vvdR_c_Jy245KvRm5bqzglBN8AY52/s1600/24Aug2014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga3Chct0BDOYhFAARviDcoA280r0I78-K54rIN8geMx0eMxmZZ-jiQYctnHQTWQzgeZcuXnKigntkuV90QeW_eDhayBurBA0V8caLvynxmalX7S-6vvdR_c_Jy245KvRm5bqzglBN8AY52/s1600/24Aug2014.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Mom look at how nasty long my hair is... <br />I need to cut it but I'm soooo scared to do it here hahaha. <br />That's terrible to say but I really am. </span><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"> Mom, you are waiting for <br />me to get home to cut your hair, haha, that's so funny.</span></td></tr>
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Panciano, our recent convert (RC) attended the mini MTC which really helped me realize HOW IMPORTANT it is that we as missionaries LISTEN. PMG is soo right... and Elder Bednar and well all of them I guess... listening is more important than talking. We have to LISTEN to our companion, to our investigators and to the spirit. Missionary work mechanics-wise is not that hard... but these parts of the work.... "listening" ......takes work. It takes your heart. We are helping them get into missionary work. They are big into sending missionaries out into the field, but they're just starting the work of fellow-shipping and member missionary work. </div>
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WE WORKED SO, SO, SO HARD THIS WEEK! I'm exhausted.... this month it finally hit in why missionaries come home and sleep. I never understood... now I do. Despite all the meetings we tried so hard to get to everyone and teach and I know we made lots of mistakes and balls were dropped but we did EVERYTHING we could all day every day and then some more. God is so good. We had 16 investigators come to church!!! 16!!!! We were sooooo happy!!!! We filled the back of the chapel with new faces and the members are finally seeing and helping and fellow-shipping and ahhh!! We are soooo so happy! Honestly I don't know if I could be any happier. I just feel like flying all the time! I'M DEAD physically but spiritually God is just Giving us wings! I love being a missionary!! I've never been so happy in my life!</div>
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Thank you for sharing Benjamin's reaction to our number of investigators. I feel soooo spoiled that is for sure. Thank you Benjamin... hahaha. WE ARE RALPHS!! haha. I love it. Mini MTC we just had the youth and YSA come and experience teaching etc ... it was fun! </div>
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Ok so guess what!! THE RAFAEL FAMILY!! They got MARRIED!!! WITHOUT TELLING US!!! I was sooooo sooo UPSET! Bishop told us at a meeting and I freaked out! WHAT! My favorite family just GOT MARRIED And didn't tell me! ah! SO RUDE!! BASTA we are sooo happy, they had their interviews and will be baptized this Saturday with Sister Nildie!!! CAN'T WAIT!!!! They are amazing!! </div>
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No cough just a runny nose (yucks) every once in a while. I'm doing much better. Mom I hope you know I am planning on leaving most my clothes and things here - just so you know. Yes I would LOVE a doctor's appointment when I get home. I keep getting these random things that make me nervous...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ5GtTfMs1CwKuAIgukHHcw6iqDoj_fhYA_GR1857zdPlXOsbaTS-TRVh-CMzuM0Iic0u36dt8gBxsHcBuJOQAcT_qfLcg7MMf2GvTwcNfR42ft9KewsnQgbc5KZ0gt_GPXGppgJ1UboZH/s1600/24Aug2014.5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ5GtTfMs1CwKuAIgukHHcw6iqDoj_fhYA_GR1857zdPlXOsbaTS-TRVh-CMzuM0Iic0u36dt8gBxsHcBuJOQAcT_qfLcg7MMf2GvTwcNfR42ft9KewsnQgbc5KZ0gt_GPXGppgJ1UboZH/s1600/24Aug2014.5.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is outside the chapel we did posses with our umbrellas <br />to celebrate that the rain stopped so people <br />could come to the activities.... when it rains here people stay home. </span></td></tr>
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Yes we killed another rat in our apt this week... it was rough because the Elders were not being as Christ-like as before so we had to listen to it moving around while we ate and studied until it died in our cabinet. Last time they came over and killed it... I lost the picture. But this time we caught it in a cabinet and shut the door tight so he could not get out. Pretty sure we scared him to death though because it was not that long and he was moving around like crazy in there with plastic bags so we could hear EVERYTHING!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr8otDrwQbci7wvZ5swir-lNMlyJuFFnyAe__tc9pGg_5kNwxtGcW1mkq_1sYruaVN6gHEMWi777W_aLRlQ9-KorRa760vU7W1_KRqvfeZavqiTdJyyPAB1yALFWwypuZWZ-RQLNOwpF9Q/s1600/24Aug2014.7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr8otDrwQbci7wvZ5swir-lNMlyJuFFnyAe__tc9pGg_5kNwxtGcW1mkq_1sYruaVN6gHEMWi777W_aLRlQ9-KorRa760vU7W1_KRqvfeZavqiTdJyyPAB1yALFWwypuZWZ-RQLNOwpF9Q/s1600/24Aug2014.7.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">They love their pictures taken. <br />I took a bunch of her first then she wanted one of me.<br /> I took that from her camera and gave it back <br />already but this is Panciano posing , he is <br />our RC that went less active and is now coming <br />back and preparing for his mission.</span></td></tr>
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Haha, Everyone around me counts for me with mine time to go home, so it's hard not to think about it... not all the time just when we are at the apartment and I'm cooking or doing Laba or something that does not need much thought. I'm safe mom... other than the rats and snails in our apt, haha.<br />
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I tore through my shoes again and so I had them sewed again haha there is NO way I'm buying new shoes. So these will work. I will sew them until there is nothing to sew. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMpiWcQWRrnxoJ00eoKiZNBDICBnVc7829vx2XOe4VlFJHcf-PlBuPEr90TiQuJqokdUlm_MwOJJmOdWoJIB3n_mRR6AGmhbIM1BqL22rj4cGwpKBAovb9rreGY6BbLJztxAUHFOrFHI-Z/s1600/24Aug2014.8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMpiWcQWRrnxoJ00eoKiZNBDICBnVc7829vx2XOe4VlFJHcf-PlBuPEr90TiQuJqokdUlm_MwOJJmOdWoJIB3n_mRR6AGmhbIM1BqL22rj4cGwpKBAovb9rreGY6BbLJztxAUHFOrFHI-Z/s1600/24Aug2014.8.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is a Filipino game the kids always play but apparently Sister Besiera has many hidden talents, hahahaha.</span></td></tr>
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Love you more Mom!! Thank you for being my mom! You mean the world to me! Give Dad a kiss for me and tell him I love him! Benjamin and Beka and Samuel too-- hugs will work for them, haha. I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!!!<br />
"Ice Bucket Challenge???" ALS is part of what I study in speech therapy! Its so fascinating huh? I'm confused where this ice bath thing happened? And how do you not get bathed in ice?<br />
YOU be safe huh? How many accidents have you had since I left?? Yeahhhh...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhrc4_gj1Gpyxp6LCzMolyLT3RMuotuB8cnggxRMGNV_ipa3feRNFjSuvJy6d0ID-CgqG4MVRZOs11Iw4Dbzyu8URwQN9H4zQsa2ovP1NTvxXD66gZwOrlWf333dVCArTJiQyEGpU3GeTR/s1600/24Aug2014.6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhrc4_gj1Gpyxp6LCzMolyLT3RMuotuB8cnggxRMGNV_ipa3feRNFjSuvJy6d0ID-CgqG4MVRZOs11Iw4Dbzyu8URwQN9H4zQsa2ovP1NTvxXD66gZwOrlWf333dVCArTJiQyEGpU3GeTR/s1600/24Aug2014.6.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Those pigs are still alive for a little bit longer.</span></td></tr>
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Take care!<br />
Love, Sister Ralph<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-16498193077773688552014-08-19T13:02:00.001-07:002014-08-19T13:02:14.191-07:0017 August 2014 - Rats and Rain but mostly BlessingsMOM!! You sold Bat-mobile?? NOO!!! haha, my love is gone from me. I feel so lost without him. haha. Thanks, Dad, for the visual I wish I could show you what I experienced this week but there is no card reader so I can't send pictures this week. <br /> Mom! I'm never bored of your emails. I love the details. I forget what it is like there... life before is kind of like a dream these days so... little flash backs are fun. I'm glad the reunion was a success! <br /> Life is great here! My leg is looking good, just got a little hole in my leg from where the scab fell off this morning and its red but I finished my pills so life is good. The companion is awesome! I love her to death and investigators are coming along. I apologize I don't have a ton to write this week. <br /> Ok well let me try and tell you a little about what happened this week. Last P-day after emailing there was ANOTHER rat in our house... so Liz I KNOW how you feel. Except this one was VERY alive! He was under our sink and we ended up trapping it in the CR (bathroom) and you would not believe how much screaming was going on with 4 girls ALL who HATE rats. We begged and cried for the Elders to come kill the rat- ITS PART OF THEIR PRIESTHOOD RESPONSIBILITY!! Haha! After much, much begging they came with a machete ,... however you spell that it's called a sundang here, a big old knife, haha. We had a bed mattress against the door so the rat could not go out and we sisters stared at the CR to make sure it would stay there until the elders came. The elders came and it was gone!! I was sooooo MAD! I was watching so closely the ENTIRE time!! They were getting ready to leave and I looked into the CR and having taken many baths there I looked closely and under the sink I saw.... an extra pipe... I did not recognize... the end was not going towards anything. I knelt down and looked up and YEA>>>DEFINITELY NOT A PIPE! That stinker is sooo smart! I screamed and the Elders put the sundang to good use. YUCK!<br /> Well besides the rat we have really been enjoying our time together- Sister Besiera and I. Yes, she is no longer scared of me because I am white. She cries when she talks about me going home hahaha. Oh women! I love her so much! She is trying to practice her English so when we are walking along the streets she talks a lot to the rats and dogs, haha. It's hilarious. She makes me laugh all the time. She has helped me see things in a new light. At the beginning of my mission I got an email from an old friend who served in the Philippines and he told me to LOVE the people and to be good to them. I reflected over and over again on what he said and how I could really do that. And I was frustrated for a while because I was not sure how I could express my love to them, etc. But now that I'm with Sister Besiera and its her first time with a foreigner she always points out how I make the people so happy. I love saying "Hi" and smiling at people and the people always smile and laugh when I give them even a split second of my attention through a smile. She helped me see that just through the simple smiles and waves and talking to people everywhere that they feel my love and they want to get to know me. So I am so grateful so my companion who helps me see the good.<br /> Soooo I am turning PINAY! aka Filipino. They DO NOT go outside in the rain without something covering their head.,.. mostly they just don't go out. Well this week it poured again and I spent another day soaking wet and YET AGAIN... just like 2 weeks ago, I got sick. I am coughing and sneezing and dripping nasty all over the place. SO if you ever serve in the Philippines... BELIEVE them and cover your head and don't fall into the rivers hahaha, or you will get sick. Yes mom, I'm sick again, hahaha. <br /> Mom, it's the work of the Lord. I'm doing my best to take care of myself but not at the extent of not working.<br /> I have some really fun pictures that I will have to send next week of a farewell party we had for a departing missionary. It got a little messy! I LOVE ORMOC so much!!! I love my ward and the people I serve with, the ward the leaders, I don't know why God felt the need to spoil me right before I go home.<br /> Mom I just got a virus on my card.... I can't send any pictures. I don't know what to do. My card has a virus... I lost everything )= I don't know what I should do. I just put in the card to the reader and it popped up with these Chinese symbols and I can't get to my pictures. Ah! We are trying to do some codes to get pictures but it's not working. We are at an internet cafe. I'm working on it but they have to find a card reader.<br /> So while that guy is working on my card reader let me tell you about yesterday. I LOVE SUNDAY SOO MUCH! SO MUCH! We had 11 investigators at church-8 of which is was there first time coming, 2 second time and 1 long going now. WOW!!! WE WERE OVER THRILLED!!! We have been working so hard and praying even harder for our investigators and FINALLY they are exercising their faith. In Luna we teach 6 Brothers and they are amazing. The lesson on Saturday was about Repentance and they ate it up. You should have seen the way they were eating up the Book of Mormon and asking questions and really considering how to apply the steps of repentance. it was the first time they considered repentance as more than asking God for forgiveness and the spirit was blazing! Each of them commented on how they felt and how they needed to come to church! AND THEY DID! They come in dressed in white t-shirts and jeans ...the most beautiful sight in the world. AHH! I seriously still want to cry with how happy I am! Missionary work really is the best- the most satisfying work on the planet. I know all of our success is because of our Father in Heaven. He is so willing to answer our prayers as we put everything on the altar of sacrifice- fears, pride, disobedience, EVERYTHING! I love being a missionary!<br /> Mom, It looks like the guy can't fix it. So I will have to figure out what to do about pictures. I have to go though. Thank you for the email. Sorry mine was so small. I'm trying )= I love you so so so much! Thank you for always wanting to be there for me and for being a rock in my life. I love you! Love you, DAD!!!! Thanks for the Help!!<br /><br />LOVE ,<br />Sister Ralph<div>
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WOW!!!!! LOOK AT EVERYONE!!! That is amazing! Everyone is SOOOOOOO different looking!! This is killing me! WOW!! I'm freaking out here. Wow. YOU KNOW MICHAEL??? How did you meet him? SERIOUSLY!!!?????? Does MICHAEL KNOW THAT'S MY FAMILY???? I LOVE MICHAEL SOOOOO SOOO SOOOOO MUCH! He is a genius! Did you not talk to him about me? Sad! No he was my neighbor when I was in Monticello. He is amazing! He is so sweet to me- we played basketball in the pool and he helped me with my stats HW. Every time I would see him we would run at each other and give each other huge hugs. I love him sooo much! He is in the law program at BYU. he is soo smart! He talks funny right? Yea, he gets easier to understand the more you talk to him for sure. He is the best! YES! He is adorable! OH, that makes me sooo happy! He deserves the best! I'm so excited to see him again! PHEW So how are you? That picture looks so fun! Did you by chance get me one of those cool blue shirts too for when I come home? (=</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-74364993797160532742014-08-13T13:57:00.004-07:002014-08-13T14:06:20.800-07:0010 August 2014 -- Beautiful experiences (and a bite).<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4f9T5oihai9TAJbuI9QnR4G54MDhbHC807QTxT3MXGGYbIdANbiAFtdpBhnBeQn8AskGW5YKPxqjxPYgt6y0q31mge5Xg3Ylou72PqGdq6Z0YmzsGQcYAK2oNnJp3JUYypRSzQuXL5e3M/s1600/10Aug2014.1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4f9T5oihai9TAJbuI9QnR4G54MDhbHC807QTxT3MXGGYbIdANbiAFtdpBhnBeQn8AskGW5YKPxqjxPYgt6y0q31mge5Xg3Ylou72PqGdq6Z0YmzsGQcYAK2oNnJp3JUYypRSzQuXL5e3M/s1600/10Aug2014.1.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Alright here I go. This is a picture of my district and a few other elders in our zone. We were celebrating Elder Paleo's birthday- this was the one of the few good cakes I have had in the Philippines.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is the Birthday of the bishop's son. <br />I love this family. I love my ward soo soo so much!</span></td></tr>
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Ok so let's begin with last Monday- slightly crazy. We taught a lesson to Rosemarie and the Rojas family and while we were teaching their little boy looked out the front door and without me seeing at the time pee'd in my shoe. haha. So walking home in my soaking soak and shoe was the best! I tried to wash it out when I got home, but when we woke up the next day it was covered in mold and downstairs smelt TERRIBLE. so I went crazy washing it out and let the sun finish the job. The same night I found this wound on my leg....<br />
This tiny little wound took ME OUT! It started out and just what looked like a bug bite or something, but it was super red and by Monday night it was PUSSING infection everywhere. It was nasty. It was like that the next day and the pain increased. The next day I could barely walk. The picture is the beginning stage and it just SUPER dark read and spread over my leg like 4 inches in. The redness I mean spread 4 inches across and there was hard shaped line of red growing up my leg. If I didn't move my leg and then would start moving it would KILL.. . I had to gimp around and I wanted to cut off my leg. We tried cleaning it with alcohol but I could not feel the alcohol at all and my foot SWELLED up like crazy. it was so bad.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh07P3pNv6o1iWRXEtjoHcypt0DMZN0OFCIWNJG4AqpTUca1n6WVlMPdIgU8Sh2Z8cNDiZMkrGjWZ3AwAl2-YscCG3OIbfecFuTpFJrsr2egpkWwxc0EqmBh9ex7-jbO7MPWynbkgs_-5So/s1600/10Aug2014.5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh07P3pNv6o1iWRXEtjoHcypt0DMZN0OFCIWNJG4AqpTUca1n6WVlMPdIgU8Sh2Z8cNDiZMkrGjWZ3AwAl2-YscCG3OIbfecFuTpFJrsr2egpkWwxc0EqmBh9ex7-jbO7MPWynbkgs_-5So/s1600/10Aug2014.5.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bug Bite beginning of an infection.</td></tr>
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But we just kept working. There was NO way we were not working. When I got back one night I decided to text the mission president's wife about it and she told me to go to the doctor. So at like 10:45 at night we walked to the doctors until a driver took pity on us. They told us they were not seeing anyone other than those they would admit. BUT.... I'm Amerikan.... soooo.... it's different. I walked in and the doctor sat me down right in the front entry way and took one look at my leg and prescribed me 2000 pesos worth of pills. I got the pills and I can walk just fine. This morning it looks so much more dry and its black rather than pussing and red. It's still red and I'm still swollen but it only hurts if you push on or around the wound. So I am SUPER Happy! That's my story hahaha. I will finish the prescription mom,,,, there is no way I'm risking feeling like that again. <br />
We don't think it's a bug bite. If anything creature-wise, it was a cockroach bite. Its 3 inches above my ankle<br />
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Me and my companion are having such a good time together. I love her to death. She makes me laugh and we are opposites and complement each other in so many ways. She is a skater girl and is good at softening things. I'm the "give-me-dirt-and-a-ball-type-of-girl" and I will tell you how it is- girl. It works like a glove.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLbGu8qrd62qkAh5nMPohDJGVHFwucfNnxEjI00tx-nlBwtyAWef-qcUw76tt2lgBcBiPY0oLRHaEOgLKKklYhCkSTjDqBCNyG7j6OztoQrsuz00KaRWLHIaTgLGQ-v68HV2W5UYnwIalc/s1600/10Aug2014.3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLbGu8qrd62qkAh5nMPohDJGVHFwucfNnxEjI00tx-nlBwtyAWef-qcUw76tt2lgBcBiPY0oLRHaEOgLKKklYhCkSTjDqBCNyG7j6OztoQrsuz00KaRWLHIaTgLGQ-v68HV2W5UYnwIalc/s1600/10Aug2014.3.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is my companion again with me. <br />We are getting along great and things are moving along smooth- Sister Besiera.</span></td></tr>
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We have had some beautiful experiences this week. We were working out in Luna- kind of out in the bukid or out of city type area and we saw a lady struggling to carry her bags (typical missionary opportunity scene) we grabbed tight to our bags and RAN to her. She said she was fine but I grabbed the bags from her-- there was NO way we were missing this opportunity. We were able to share a message with her and have a return appointment. She is open minded and wants to learn. YES! We decided (to follow the spirit) and continue walking down the round. There were lots of BIG aka rich houses and we are supposed to be finding professionals to establish the church and so we opened our mouths and were able to share the gospel with a few more people including the Romeo family. They were interested in the Book of Mormon and wanted to read it and learn what this was ( it was just the father and his two kids). They said we could come back.<br />
We went back yesterday and this time the wife was there and another child with the dad. The mother was obviously VERY different from her husband. She was FRANK (like me (= )and asked us what we wanted and that they were catholic and that her husband was a pastor and is going back to being a pastor...<br />
She was upset because we do not worship Mary only her son. We listened and then I politely asked if we could share with her and her family. She said ok. She and her husband had read a little bit since our last appt from the Book of Mormon and Sister said it's about Christ but that is the Mormon way and we have our Catholic way... etc., etc., etc.... Being with my companion for a week now and knowing she does not like intensity... I knew she was freaking out inside. Sister Besiera talked about how we respect their religion and how we are here to share and invite etc. We read from the introduction of the Book of Mormon to help sister see real quickly exactly what the Book of Mormon is but she was very Stuck on the idea that it was for the Mormons and that's just fine for Mormons. At this point I'm totally calm but I can feel the buildup, the spirit Is THE BEST! I KNOW without a doubt that if the spirit had not been with us I would have BLOWN Up at this lady. So stuck in her "I was born and will die Catholic" ways. I stopped and looked her in the eyes and testified with love and BOLDNESS - I asked her if she knew where the Book of Mormon came from- of course she said she had no idea. I said that's exactly right, you don't know. Please do not salikway or reject something you have no idea what it is or where it came from. I bore testimony to her of the Book of Mormon and because of her sternness with having faith in Jesus Christ the spirit guided me to 2 Nephi 33 about if you believe in Christ you will believe these words. The spirit was strong and Firm and I know they felt it. There was no contention,.. there was LOVE through Boldness. Sister will take some time to understand and see, but they were open to letting us come back and share. I really believe that as missionaries we have to be Bold. We are not ashamed of the gospel. Our message is one of truth and we have to be clear and powerful! I love the spirit so much! That lesson would not have existed without the spirit. I LOVE MISSIONARY WORK!<br />
We have a couple of new investigators this week. Niko- he is a 14 year old boy that screamed 'sisters sisters!!" while we were walking on the street. Then when we finally came up to him he went all shy but we taught him and he has such a sweet humble spirit about him AND he came to church all by himself. I love him so much! We are going to set a baptismal date for him!<br />
Our investigators the Rafael Family they will hopefully get married this or next week!!! SOO EXCITED! They are reading now in Jacob 5 -- isn't that amazing!! Well brother asked me to explain the parable in Jacob 5---- OH BOY... did I struggle. English is hard enough but in Cebuano.... PhhheewwwwPH! If anyone has any ideas on how to clearly and SIMPLY SUPER SIMPLY explain that parable to someone who has no idea what Israelites or gentiles is.... I would love you forever.<br />
We are also having lots of "fun" teaching Rosemarie and the Rojas family. Rosemarie is the not-yet wife of a member. She wants to be baptized, but she needs to be married first. They have two kids and her man, the member is just ..... AHH!! Let's just say we had to whip out some Alma 42- "do not excuse yourself in the least bit" etc. to help him see that living with a woman after your baptism without marriage is a sin and drinking is "No" ok.... he still thinks he is worthy and going to celestial kingdom with all these problems... ANY WAY... we got some work to do to help this family figure out HOW to live the gospel and then do so. At the same time we are teaching his brother and want-to-be wife who also have a little boy. Brother had been drunk 2 of the last 3 times we have showed up though. It's just LOTS and LOTS of challenges but they want to learn and listen. We are enjoying being a part of their process in coming to learn and live the truth. I love missionary work so much!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiza2N1YBSwXHJJhdblf2BKXEfRxH5gr-O27L7hlrTn4E9gN29owbUTrExYkIw1GqleKIqYrPwiUusTeQuYefg7R2sN8lLbEIxsuXLzDqcWszbyJVRDY1vgC-lh435qNWLygOkfilCK5rSX/s1600/10Aug2014.4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiza2N1YBSwXHJJhdblf2BKXEfRxH5gr-O27L7hlrTn4E9gN29owbUTrExYkIw1GqleKIqYrPwiUusTeQuYefg7R2sN8lLbEIxsuXLzDqcWszbyJVRDY1vgC-lh435qNWLygOkfilCK5rSX/s1600/10Aug2014.4.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Look at Arnold Swatzenager... Philippino style.... CRAZY look-a-like huh? We are trying to teach him, he is a part member, but he is not super excited about the thought. </span><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">We have not taught Brother Arnold.... we just are trying to convince him because his wife is a member. His time will come. </span></td></tr>
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I LOVE the challenges! I really do study and think and pray about our investigators like I've never done before. I LOVE it SO MUCH! I love the people here like crazy.<br />
Hahaha Mom, you are the best cook in the world! I am going to watch your every move when I get back! I love you so much! Is there anything else you need before I head out? Thanks mom! "You light up my life!!" I'm excited to tell you in person how much you mean to me and how your example has impacted the people here in the Philippines. I love you to death-- but that's just an expression... I love you MUCH MUCH longer!! (= Forever! I will repent for the lack of pictures... sorry no more. <br />
Sending all my Love,<br />
Sister RalphUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-51084424815106037262014-08-13T13:20:00.004-07:002014-08-13T13:20:42.867-07:003 August 2014 -- The Book of Mormon is my Strength <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj34m1yg73MlPXuGGD5vGz75xUR8pjS8OXi12NsFem8d1vteoXE1kAmxW7QYBiHr9D1JDE6EBHeFfRhqULHCViTho_nYGVLo4lwFgYsXqZrKwUjaI5tWtVtsTmrQUr7iFKHJMXfk5jTLhcI/s1600/3Aug2014.5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj34m1yg73MlPXuGGD5vGz75xUR8pjS8OXi12NsFem8d1vteoXE1kAmxW7QYBiHr9D1JDE6EBHeFfRhqULHCViTho_nYGVLo4lwFgYsXqZrKwUjaI5tWtVtsTmrQUr7iFKHJMXfk5jTLhcI/s1600/3Aug2014.5.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">And THIS.... is my third Child (anak). Her name is Sister Besiera and she is from Davao which means she is cebuano speaking!! WOOT WOOT! Im so spoiled! She is 24 years old and the 7th of 8 kids.</span></td></tr>
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Wow, grandpa and grandma are so sweet. Please tell them I love them so much! Are you exhausted, it seems like you all are always having a blast with family! So is the reunion over or not yet started?<br />Exciting! It's slightly ridiculous how much work that duplex requires. But I'm glad you have family bonding time. So are Liz and Austin still in Utah or?? How are you feeling? How are the kids? Did you leave Benjamin at home or is he with you?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjprVJ1KOX2MALPjMCdDtTTv5xwK7u-K6wwFHS5lZFfY788U_ZKQJS2HD2aOC1XLl5wh6YKjmJlVbwty64dx0d1o9gKQgR5cR83IofkHpgQzVEBVJz8lLj1pIASJjoiaAUsjnAMdsMWf4aM/s1600/3Aug2014.1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjprVJ1KOX2MALPjMCdDtTTv5xwK7u-K6wwFHS5lZFfY788U_ZKQJS2HD2aOC1XLl5wh6YKjmJlVbwty64dx0d1o9gKQgR5cR83IofkHpgQzVEBVJz8lLj1pIASJjoiaAUsjnAMdsMWf4aM/s1600/3Aug2014.1.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Mom does this shirt look familiar?? We were shopping at a ukay ukay and my companion pulled this out and said Look Its sooo cute!... HAHAHHA I DIED of laughter..... hahahahahhahahahahah MY MOM HAS THAT SHIRT HAHAHAHAHA. S</span><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">orry mom, I didn't buy it. But if you really want I'm SURE I still can... only special people wear shirts like that, hahahahaha.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfann0u6q1pAEF9sKuPeo0PUBK1ZW1xbig3E2c7pypewbAl7AQCTEsL25oc6bMVy-Gl5Tz7QBnW84SLuQP1JC1K19Lce0kQeECWC9v5mYHouaLD5k5PS_ODg6vK2kS7bcVWavQyXeXYkgm/s1600/3Aug2014.3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfann0u6q1pAEF9sKuPeo0PUBK1ZW1xbig3E2c7pypewbAl7AQCTEsL25oc6bMVy-Gl5Tz7QBnW84SLuQP1JC1K19Lce0kQeECWC9v5mYHouaLD5k5PS_ODg6vK2kS7bcVWavQyXeXYkgm/s1600/3Aug2014.3.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">No mom, I am quite content with these shoes... <br />I'm determined to make them last 3 more months.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is my shoe before I had an angel sew it up (= </span></td></tr>
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<br /><br />Alright so let me share a little bit with what happened this week. We went back to the Demeterio family- this was the super poor family with the triplets. The eldest is 5 months pregnant and she was in A LOT of pain when we showed up. She was moaning and crying and I talked to her and tried to help but I have no idea what the problem is. We called the zone leaders and they came and were able to give her a blessing. It was beautiful and full of faith. They were DRIPPING sweat when the blessing was over. We still need to go back and see how she is doing.<br /> We have had lots of little BEAUTIFUL miracles this week, and it's been an adventure getting to know my companion. She is great! The first two days we were together she cried and cried and cried.... really really hard. And I talked to her and the reason she was crying is because ONE she said she is a mommy's baby and this is her first time being independent- of course it's a hard transition but the biggest reason she cried is because of me. She is from Davao.... that part of the Philippines there are no foreigners and her biggest fear is being put with a foreigner.... and WALA! She got me. So it's weird because I'm the problem but we love each other at the same time and everything is going well... she just has to adjust to the white skin, haha. She is wonderful though and it's going to be so good having her as my companion- we will really be able to focus on our investigators. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is the son of one of our investigators. <br />He fell asleep while we were teaching (=</span></td></tr>
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Ok so let me tell you about some of our investigators and things that have happened this week. The Quijano family is coming along slowly. They did not come to church because baby had a fever and her husband broke out in rashes and a fever and is itchy everywhere. They have read a little from the Book of Mormon and they just have a really hopeful spirit about them. They opened up to us about they are worried that if they come to church then their neighbors will "talk" and so we are working on helping them build their faith to face that trial- we are so excited for them to make these small steps toward making covenants with God. <br /> Another good news is the Rafael family! They are doing sooo good! They got their marriage papers worked out and are just waiting to be assigned a date that they can get married and then BAPTIZED! You should see how excited brother is.... he can't wait! They are already reading in the Book of Jacob and yesterday he asked me who are the covenant people? WOW! I LOVE THEM SO MUCH! Missionary work is just the best!<br /> So another one of our investigators is Sister Nildie...sister of Brother Rafael- she is AMAZING! Seriously she just has the most clear understanding of the restoration and the Book of Mormon and she is just so spiritual! She CAME to church yesterday and was INTENSELY listening to every single testimony. She makes me soo happy! Brother Panciano is finally now returning and he bore his testimony yesterday and got interviewed for a calling and preparing for his mission! AHH! I LOVE MISSIONARY WORK!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Yesterday was an amazing day for me! We had so many people work with us! This picture is the Tunada family. The gospel has completely changed this family. Brother used to be very violent and a drunk and it was just an ugly situation. The missionaries found him and He changed everything about his life! He now is the sweetest man ever, he has incredible faith, brings his family to church, reads the scriptures, provides, is so gentle with his kids and is going to work with us missionaries next Sunday! The Gospel sometimes seems like a fairy tale but it's not. It's simply God's plan of happiness for us. It's simple, not easy. But perfectly real and rewarding! How I love the gospel of Jesus Christ. The members were so excited to work with us and it just ah!... It feels like home. I love these people so, so much! I'm so grateful to my Father in Heaven. He is just so good to me. I can barely keep all these blessings under control.<br /> I have recently started over again in reading the Book of Mormon and ... honestly I just can't describe how much I love the Book of Mormon. Honestly I think my love and commitment to the Book of Mormon has been the biggest thing that has changed from my mission, for me personally. Like everyone else I have days where I know that Satan wants me, days when I just don't want to smile, I just want to eat chocolate and be alone, days when I feel unloved and just angry for no reason.... The worst is days when I get those thoughts in my head.... really? I believe in God? A personage who knows me better than I know myself? Someone who loves me perfectly? There is a God who supports me in all my trials and is perfectly patient with my weaknesses and faults? Sometimes I feel those things... But every single time.... I go back to the Book of Mormon. I am beginning to understand. Beginning to see ... the Book of Mormon is the Keystone of our religion. It is everything to me. I feel the power of this sacred record. I read a talk recently that said eventually we will have to do more than tell the stories of the Book of Mormon,.... we will have to live them. I am a witness of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon. <br /> The Book of Mormon is my strength. It gives me the courage to continue and to become more than I am. How I love the Book of Mormon.<br /> Yep, I've been chatting with Benjamin a little- give Beka a hug for me! Cge... you all are going to want to chat it up. I will let you go at it! HAPPY FAMILY! We are so so blessed! I love you all!<div>
Sister Ralph</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-51107720557791804872014-07-28T11:54:00.000-07:002014-08-13T11:33:49.415-07:0027 July 2014 -- Happy Birthday Samuel! <br />
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I'm good. I've had a small cough and runny nose the whole week but I feel good. The weather is rain and rain and rain which is making work a challenge but what would missionary work be without that? YOU SAW Simone and Shermena??? Oh I miss them! How are they doing?<br />
I ripped AS IN RIPPED straight through my leather and only shoes due to walking in the mud for a good two miles, haha, and I know I'm not going to get any better because my feet are ALWAYS wet. I still wear them, haha, I have no choice. I'm going to attempt to sew them later but.... it's going to look ... fantastic.<br />
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2 transfers left... I am NOT buying new shoes now, haha. They still work, they just have a big hole in the front side. I will try the dental floss if I can get a GIANT needle, haha. I have no idea where but we will see. I will take a picture and send it next week of my shoe.<br />
What are the plans for Samuel's birthday?? It's his birthday TODAY in the Philippines so HAPPPPPPPYYYYY Birthday Samuel! Love you to pieces! Jess said this reunion is turning into a really big deal and it wasn't supposed to be at first, haha Oh I love our family. What game are you playing? Hand and foot? I'm so excited to play that. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjocp7fTMP9uqepOq2medJ7lCpbaRho4EYb6qkfAAMbO70ha4jWNtzfQCBkUkyV0p3YkFpAHn__JMIFHjbCgfb-nMiluT7WDDfS1uCyfPvgCGHWOEnim3BcWgQSm4Pln8uLxpZxa4apzJ8l/s1600/27July2014.1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjocp7fTMP9uqepOq2medJ7lCpbaRho4EYb6qkfAAMbO70ha4jWNtzfQCBkUkyV0p3YkFpAHn__JMIFHjbCgfb-nMiluT7WDDfS1uCyfPvgCGHWOEnim3BcWgQSm4Pln8uLxpZxa4apzJ8l/s1600/27July2014.1.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This pig just gave birth the night before. This little boy is names Jacob and he is the oldest son of one of our new investigators. He has a behavioral problem but look at how sweet he is. He likes to play with the pigs ears.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"> These are some part member kids that we have been teaching. </span></td></tr>
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Samuel-- I saw this (the Lakers jersey in the first pix) and thought of you and I could not resist. I am so grateful you are my little brother. I think about you every day and remember when you were little and there was nothing else in the world that made me happier than holding you. You would wear that adorable little green onsie with the dog on in and we all knew there was nothing cuter in the entire world. Now you are growing up and remain to be a light and joy to your family. I hope you know how much we love you and treasure you! Thank you for being a part of my life! I hope you have an amazing Birthday!! I'm singing for you half way around the world.<br />
WOW! You had your birthday interview with the bishop. That's awesome Samuel- how did it go?<br />
So mom, another week with not a whole TON to report. The rain has really been making it difficult to get around and people do not come to church when it rains so..... yea BUT regardless we are happy and preparing for this week. We were able to do a few CSP's this week which was a lot of fun- we tore down a few walls and cleaned up. Me and my companion decided this last week we really, really wanted a family to teach. And Heavenly Father was SO kind to us and answered our prayer with a cherry on top. We were just walking along one day, barely got out of an appointment and this guy, without a shirt on, said "Do you know Sister Campbell?"(in Visaya) and we stopped and talked to him and he told us how he had met her in Biliran a while ago and he still had the Book of Mormon that he Loved. He let us in and we talked to him and his whole family and they were receptive! The Quijano family! WOW! I love my life soooo much! We continued on teaching our other appointments and met another family, the Rojas family who- the sister was taught 3 lessons by elders a long time ago- but she remembered and asked us for another Book of Mormon. She wants to take it slow but is SOO very willing and hungrying after the gospel! WOW! blessings! I love my life sooo much! Who says there isn't a God? I just got full proof that there is a God and He loves me and answers my prayers! Believing is Seeing!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is Sister Campbell, she is my sister training leader and my house mate. <br />I love her so much! She is going home today!!! AHH!!</span></td></tr>
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We got a call from the AP and I will be training again. My THIRD ANAK!! WOOT WOOT! so that will be the news for this coming week. Pray for me please! <br />
She is transferring (my comp) yes but not till Thursday.<br />
This last Thursday I went to Tacloban to get training from President Maurer- it was for all the trainers. I was the only one who would be training for their third time and it made me feel SUPER OLD! AH! Lagas ko! But we talked about the angel Moroni and his interactions with Joseph Smith, to apply to how we should be training. I got some really good insights and am excited in a nervous kind of way. I was told that Jodee Newton (who was in the MTC with me and went home) is coming in this batch... that would be crazy if I got to train her. It's weird knowing that I will die in my area where I am now. It will be the longest I will ever be in an area for my whole mission. Exciting news again is actually the same with Brother Panciano. He was the recent convert that went less active and is coming back. Its amazing to watch his attitude, his appearance change. He comes to all the activities and even told his boss this week that he could not work on Sundays. He comes early to church and wore a white polo for the first time. You should have seen his face when one of the Elders gave him a tie... he was glowing! I love missionary work! The training was short and sweet, but good reminders. Its so weird to see just how different President Andaya and President Maurer are but we love them both.<br />
I am blessed. When you train normally you train them for 12 weeks in the same area. So yes I know I'm staying here. The only reason I've been in so many areas was because there were soooo many PASAWAY or BAD trainers or missionaries... things had to get moved around. But that's not normal.<br />
Sorry mom .... that's about all I got for you . I'm so lame, haha.<br />
Michelle finally emailed me. That was sweet of her. It's nice hearing from family every once in a while. (I mean outside my immediate family) Basta, I will let you all get back to your FAMILY GAME...,. prepare yourselves for when I come home.... you are going to need to warm up (;</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Can anyone find me in this picture? haha.</span></td></tr>
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Sister Ralph<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-4424418792060478812014-07-21T11:17:00.001-07:002014-07-21T11:23:17.702-07:0020 July 2014 -- Raining Blessings<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgea1gDoabWw0VgKpglF8771jKvglb0lqq8fx8lysXzF-OjWsm5i5rcGGRDOi7Gc3m7MFculIg_J-efH_eNUaZgCM7H3fx64va6MSb88aXJoPWZEKvUjMJZ2T9GIAXsva56mwTKTlll8cad/s1600/20Jul2014.3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgea1gDoabWw0VgKpglF8771jKvglb0lqq8fx8lysXzF-OjWsm5i5rcGGRDOi7Gc3m7MFculIg_J-efH_eNUaZgCM7H3fx64va6MSb88aXJoPWZEKvUjMJZ2T9GIAXsva56mwTKTlll8cad/s1600/20Jul2014.3.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"> Welcome to the Philippines. This is a picture at the market at the beginning of the storm (Henry)- it flooded but not wind so it was ok (=</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfkbnO7gd0eSjCAJDNS5P7zUD65u5ilLLqTwdjv8iN5K5p-1CgBrPH16_eVa4FseIV_3MtHBRCylDXJQZ605scXLttRxdD3cz99IRc1SjRA5yPQUg_w3Laap-T8sFU6T2m0O2EY12ejE-q/s1600/20Jul2014.4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfkbnO7gd0eSjCAJDNS5P7zUD65u5ilLLqTwdjv8iN5K5p-1CgBrPH16_eVa4FseIV_3MtHBRCylDXJQZ605scXLttRxdD3cz99IRc1SjRA5yPQUg_w3Laap-T8sFU6T2m0O2EY12ejE-q/s1600/20Jul2014.4.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">BASTA vball... bball..... the moral is the same hahaha.</span></td></tr>
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<br /> We had a little fun playing Bball. You will notice the incredible difference in
my two inch vertical and Elders 3 foot vertical.... but thanks to lots of
practice and work ... the ball still goes down on the offensive side. What are
we to learn from this picture? By small (or short) and simple things are great
things brought to pass. Never Fear- David slayed Goliath (= hahahahaha <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBBhyphenhyphenBL3N2FPWY80w5eWdoIZGvcgzJZIXrvoNHO4PUTEcbbrZOm4lb7G6V40D0Lq7dJzCXUBQOF572WCRezYDFEJGmagknR38Qiu5dDCiotbfDZPbgLYN-M3IL97Dolt0sirEJmNqXLfbM/s1600/20Jul2014.5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBBhyphenhyphenBL3N2FPWY80w5eWdoIZGvcgzJZIXrvoNHO4PUTEcbbrZOm4lb7G6V40D0Lq7dJzCXUBQOF572WCRezYDFEJGmagknR38Qiu5dDCiotbfDZPbgLYN-M3IL97Dolt0sirEJmNqXLfbM/s1600/20Jul2014.5.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is the Demeterio family- the super poor one with triplets that I talked about last week or the week before. We went and had FHE with them and look at those faces (= The gospel is sooo very true. Not coming back to church yet but </span><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">we got them happy for the night. Baby steps, mom, baby steps.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGeRmdRzm-SZaxEmHZPLjIRC0t2xWHsKWrKCth7wT2Tr6ZnFb-b2l_N5CWyWFrr-OchUvniwS5WkrpLL0ewIQAbS6KxqNA0y4XZ_ZVfiNQv7VxVmLQ-5dCp0B02hlT-C2XkGAHlo-3f9qS/s1600/20Jul2014.6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGeRmdRzm-SZaxEmHZPLjIRC0t2xWHsKWrKCth7wT2Tr6ZnFb-b2l_N5CWyWFrr-OchUvniwS5WkrpLL0ewIQAbS6KxqNA0y4XZ_ZVfiNQv7VxVmLQ-5dCp0B02hlT-C2XkGAHlo-3f9qS/s1600/20Jul2014.6.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"> This is my zone with my new mission president. We all got to meet him for the first time. He is a sweetheart. It was crazy.... he has a very paternal feeling about him. It was like he automatically took the place of my 2nd Dad-- It's hard to explain, but I am excited to get to know him. President Maurer but pronounced MOR-A. </span><span lang="EN" style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">They are young and good and happy. I think Sister M (</span><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Sister Maurer... my sister mission president) really would rather be with her children - I don't blame her. They are still a young family but all great!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Sister Tierra and I walked about 2 miles up hill... there is a picture with me holding the umbrella in order to get to their small house out in the bukid. ....Miracles are everywhere!</span></td></tr>
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Last Monday the storm began and we were in a store that I would compare to Wal-Mart when the POWER went OUT literally... everything! Imagine being in Wal-Mart and the power go out... hahaha it was hilarious, scary and just weird all together. </div>
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<span lang="EN">Due to having to do this all day on Saturday- being soaking
wet the entire day, I am now tired and got a runny nose. But we made the most
of it and enjoyed the day teaching as many people that we could reach<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">It's been colder and PURE rain this week- <br />so yes we walk and now run in the rain haha. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG7v_Cc6A9UZQObFoFWvnEUXdXQd6nvQXjWldH6IX0QSrZkFE033RiFZ4CtqdwdgJVq98jfxt5bYRTcrkCw7EPU3j0rH2gfn9fpmPtjp-aAPCATO4v5kliJqsjznev2P_UFo1e5ZiwTdaV/s1600/20Jul2014.8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG7v_Cc6A9UZQObFoFWvnEUXdXQd6nvQXjWldH6IX0QSrZkFE033RiFZ4CtqdwdgJVq98jfxt5bYRTcrkCw7EPU3j0rH2gfn9fpmPtjp-aAPCATO4v5kliJqsjznev2P_UFo1e5ZiwTdaV/s1600/20Jul2014.8.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">That is my feet after Saturday walking with soaking wet shoes all day,<br /> hahaha. I LOVE missionary work.</span> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span></div>
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<span lang="EN"> Well I don't know about miracles but here is my week...</span> Something
I would consider a miracle is Brother Pansiano. He was baptized a year ago and
then stopped coming to church. Missionaries went to visit him, but he did not
receive them- some of the nicest missionaries I know were so very frustrated
with him. But we were blessed and the timing was right. We showed up and right
away he received us. He helps us teach his neighbor now, joins us in random
FHE's, is coming to church and other activities and preparing for a mission. I
am so happy for him and Love watching the spirit work in him, especially as he
bears testimony in lessons. He writes notes about his scripture study and talks
to us about it when we see him. I LOVE the GOSPEL so much!</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxsm5i0P7JBCMWT1rkDIBhsHzl-QY-9iG-WOvvghiN5Qq6USZJBUCjI4eQieLw6Xz5aHqFcJbWxsMxD4tcx7tJFCl9JpLTiKYFZHqrjaLWFrq61FG5stNUYhP-3Xsk1Mk40Qpr2ehmxMkK/s1600/20Jul2014.10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxsm5i0P7JBCMWT1rkDIBhsHzl-QY-9iG-WOvvghiN5Qq6USZJBUCjI4eQieLw6Xz5aHqFcJbWxsMxD4tcx7tJFCl9JpLTiKYFZHqrjaLWFrq61FG5stNUYhP-3Xsk1Mk40Qpr2ehmxMkK/s1600/20Jul2014.10.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">So the cute little Filipina with me in the green and brown and her family. She is a recent convert as in RECENT June 21 but she is going to school in Manila. She was online FB and clicked LIKE IT on a Mormon ad and got all these comments-good and bad. That caused her to look for a church in her area. She searched -walking for 7 hours in her area until she finally found the church. The spirit told her not to leave. She went inside and felt so good. She came back ALL by herself to church, met with missionaries and got baptized a month later. She is now preparing to serve a mission and flew all the way here to Ormoc just to bring the missionaries to teach her family. She is going back to Manila today. She is AMAZING! </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I have a funny story. Sooo mom... you remember (probably
you don't but its true) how I would have this thing at home about tasting mold
in random foods. I would try something like bread or milk and I would be the
only one who could taste it and no one else would. The sisters in our apartment
bought bread and I took a piece and put PB on it and put it in my mouth and
right away spit it out because it was sooo nasty- I could taste mold. Even
though I couldn't see it. I told the sisters and they decided that they would
go ahead and eat it. Sister C had two pieces and Sister D had 6........ 2-3
days later Sister C is sick and has a runny nose and nasty... Sister D was SO
sick they took her to the hospital. She came back and they told her it was
bacterial. I did not put the pieces together, until later Sister C randomly
came up into our room and said "WAIT a Minute... Sister Ralph that bread
you told us not to eat... bacteria is mold right?" I just DIED of
LAUGHTER! literally... I fell asleep laughing. I know that's terrible but...
Sister Ralph has the magical taste buds.... Do not doubt, only believe,
hahahahaha.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1D9irkb3VPcaxLqnT8ytkmWZCUc4zJkduZK07_-bqm0llSF8G8q7_XY6IaHcIdTCLHwgyFSfU-nM7xrQDVQEKt4vKkXIevugvwLHbZJOtjl_1_zd0cuB1biqXrGvsMno2Xs4VNgAqxgFm/s1600/20Jul2014.7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1D9irkb3VPcaxLqnT8ytkmWZCUc4zJkduZK07_-bqm0llSF8G8q7_XY6IaHcIdTCLHwgyFSfU-nM7xrQDVQEKt4vKkXIevugvwLHbZJOtjl_1_zd0cuB1biqXrGvsMno2Xs4VNgAqxgFm/s1600/20Jul2014.7.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Current picture of me and Sister Tierra.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<o:p></o:p> Another Awesome investigator we got this week is Nildie! No real details yet
but she is amazing! She just is one of those investigators that just GETS it! We
committed her to baptism and the Spirit was a spirit of Learning and Power. We
have not been able to go back yet because their neighborhood is one big
swimming pool but we have HIGH hopes for her. She has been prepared for sure.<br />
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<span lang="EN"> The last thing that I can think of, that happened this week, was just
yesterday.... because it rained the attendance at church was like half,
including the speakers. So guess who got asked to speak 2 seconds before the
opening prayer. Believe it or not I still get SO nervous giving talks and
ESPECIALLY Very unprepared talks. So of course I had my first reaction freak
out of "That's a JOKE right???" No, Sister Ralph, you are speaking. I
took a deep breath, prayed and remembered that my focus for this month is
increasing my Trust in my Savior, not in myself. So I prayed more and thought
back on my personal study. At first I was confused and unsure what to share, even
when I went to the front. But slowly it just came until the Atonement just
seemed to speak to me. I got up to the pulpit and in my broken Visaya gave a
talk. I literally had EVERYONE's attention (another miracle in the Philippines)
and by the end there were smiles and wet eyes in the audience. I do not always
understand the Spirit, how it works or even how the Atonement works. I simply
know it does. I know there is power and blessings from our personal sincere
daily study of the scriptures. I can't tell you how many times I studied
exactly what I needed to share with a LA or investigator that same day. I know
that the talk was inspired and more than anything- I needed to hear it and feel
it for myself. I love the Spirit. I love the covenants we are able to make with
our Father in Heaven- that we never need doubt he will support us, comfort us
and ENABLE us. I love being a missionary and I plan on being one the rest of my
life!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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I also have
another story but its for journals not for emails..... But for you I will just
say.... SOMETIMES.... Elders ..... are.......... whats the word I am
looking for?..........................RIDICULOUS.</div>
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<span lang="EN">You have NO idea mom... I'm not even going to try and
explain it. That's HOW bad it is. BASTA! We are still happy and just keep
pushing along. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"> I will do my best! Daddy! I showed a bunch of
people a picture of you this week and they ALL think you are gwapo! haha, it
always made me laugh. Mom, you look amazing in those pictures! Please get some
sleep! Enjoy the rest of your dinner.... I only can dream about those foods for
now. Until I come home and you all get to try MY creations, hahaha. I love you
all and pray for you! Be safe!!! All my Love,<br />
Sister Ralph<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-26043612161963116502014-07-16T17:14:00.000-07:002014-07-16T17:31:37.946-07:0013 June 2014 - Ormoc<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUjz7NNN1MyJ9cfWiGg2OFBtY70-tScS1O3NjgIJhcDrHKrXQn3EX7PJvjlqfu2Va1SYh_16W-ZXU5pt8goNOYCKee0kTZ2uBr20aPw4vaXqrPFdGozyvxsAi7FFHD4oiu0A9vbNwbtGmc/s1600/13Jun2014.2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUjz7NNN1MyJ9cfWiGg2OFBtY70-tScS1O3NjgIJhcDrHKrXQn3EX7PJvjlqfu2Va1SYh_16W-ZXU5pt8goNOYCKee0kTZ2uBr20aPw4vaXqrPFdGozyvxsAi7FFHD4oiu0A9vbNwbtGmc/s1600/13Jun2014.2.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
Mom you wanted the Philippines.... here it is from Ormoc. Just imagine how
beautiful it would have been before the storm Raged through this place. It's super hot and sunny but the rain comes in seconds and leaves in seconds.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguhnRPW6Gs2T6v80vkfBVhBmnHvgSQlB2QXoJeGMrZGv1hHP6fgTb5mkfAPkw3-McjHHfVwaRDlBtFkMpTjCgiiTkMB-Wp1WfPWW-YYC5OyV2gUGPLRECOWnUsvODp0JOUSyp0_DTike0N/s1600/13Jun2014.8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguhnRPW6Gs2T6v80vkfBVhBmnHvgSQlB2QXoJeGMrZGv1hHP6fgTb5mkfAPkw3-McjHHfVwaRDlBtFkMpTjCgiiTkMB-Wp1WfPWW-YYC5OyV2gUGPLRECOWnUsvODp0JOUSyp0_DTike0N/s1600/13Jun2014.8.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzmqQ1q0d3S11b2LLDTHxZSELm6gxyjZjmfHo5DKJyAMpPauF-8Uzx4uUIeQPSUlHV3rZa7-7Q94GwSXlnaE4R8_a_JKS9TtAiDjhIGWSFkjp-TA0vXi6oryiz4N3OIikN0nXIPl5KQkAz/s1600/13Jun2014.4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzmqQ1q0d3S11b2LLDTHxZSELm6gxyjZjmfHo5DKJyAMpPauF-8Uzx4uUIeQPSUlHV3rZa7-7Q94GwSXlnaE4R8_a_JKS9TtAiDjhIGWSFkjp-TA0vXi6oryiz4N3OIikN0nXIPl5KQkAz/s1600/13Jun2014.4.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">These are the areas that we work in everyday. I love all of them.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBP0c0QvTLJ9AMhW6dIZvnhCWS1lzZAMEo0hRcbtJtsUzp1eGgTyjv65WsM486fRjKF4pCCv81kThcC09nGG1kDlWKgcyigEHC-s7brOwI9sts47d1_RN0tGHF1eUH7vKaf955RFjpxxCM/s1600/13Jun2014.3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBP0c0QvTLJ9AMhW6dIZvnhCWS1lzZAMEo0hRcbtJtsUzp1eGgTyjv65WsM486fRjKF4pCCv81kThcC09nGG1kDlWKgcyigEHC-s7brOwI9sts47d1_RN0tGHF1eUH7vKaf955RFjpxxCM/s1600/13Jun2014.3.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfbEFP7_EoQSF19sGYadcrHgdThyphenhyphenWTlp-1xMRxoqiYhV8Zs7QIoQmpc5wzh-a4pQcMTvF64Mlgv9vg0-nycP-JbWs5S60EL_ArkYvqtAVFJ_ysjI3_Lhlj4RxZSxzc_aljIwn5iKAkhg3l/s1600/13Jun2014.1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfbEFP7_EoQSF19sGYadcrHgdThyphenhyphenWTlp-1xMRxoqiYhV8Zs7QIoQmpc5wzh-a4pQcMTvF64Mlgv9vg0-nycP-JbWs5S60EL_ArkYvqtAVFJ_ysjI3_Lhlj4RxZSxzc_aljIwn5iKAkhg3l/s1600/13Jun2014.1.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"> </span> This week was eventful and yet not at the same time, haha. I got to go on exchanges with my STL Sister Campbell and learned so much from her. She helped me so much!<br />
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</div>
<span lang="EN">
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"> So this week
we were teaching one of our investigators. It's actually a beautiful couple (Abad), who has so much potential, and we are excited for them. Our goal is
baptism on Aug 9. We left their house and walked about 15 feet and saw their
neighbor outside. We went and talked to her and it started to rain and so she
let us into her house. We met her daughter and husband. I loved this family
from the moment we sat down and started talking. They said they had no problem
with letting us share. Even though they are very Catholic they are not like
other families that won't listen to others faiths. So that got me excited! We
began at the beginning with the Godhead and wanted to be clear that they are 3
separate individuals. Many Catholics listen to us say that, but do not
understand that its legitimately 3, not one but really three. We continued with
how the gospel will bless their families.... Apostasy, Joseph Smith and cannot
describe to you the power that I felt. Everything we taught...we were given the
words. The message could not have been made more clear- I have zero doubt of
this. It was eating inside me how the spirit burned and I knew they were
feeling it. Our message came to the end and Sister replied..... I was born Catholic
and we are Catholic. My heart shattered. I knew she felt it. I knew she could
see the truth, maybe not perfectly clear but there was no mistake, no confusion.
My love for this family and their lack of understanding left me in tears. I had
never met this family in my life but my heart literally ... ahh... what a sweet
reminder. It's true. This work does not get any easier, but better. I am
grateful to be a servant for the Lord and to have the smallest taste of
how He feels when we turn from truth. I know beyond my ability to explain that
Jesus Christ is the head of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and
the atonement is available to all who will come and partake.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiXhk6YSZtG6PanGfaK34AZhCD1gcqFdkKlLvLQjIduTASw6-HtN2rk8h8R30m922rv_VAHvEcQIyhEUw3E4xMD2uz3u5FutP39a_sF5mZaPPwoqjO-cfdg4dpJT3LOcbEa4M5YsAWsBZB/s1600/13Jun2014.5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiXhk6YSZtG6PanGfaK34AZhCD1gcqFdkKlLvLQjIduTASw6-HtN2rk8h8R30m922rv_VAHvEcQIyhEUw3E4xMD2uz3u5FutP39a_sF5mZaPPwoqjO-cfdg4dpJT3LOcbEa4M5YsAWsBZB/s1600/13Jun2014.5.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is a Filipino flower but I forgot what it is called. </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">These are just a few tender
mercies and things I will miss. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"> </span>The work is
coming along. Our teaching pool is increasing every week through getting
referrals which is a miracle. We are having LA's come back to church too. I
still get super lost in the city but our other areas are wonderful! OH.,,
I did get my first door slammed in my face this week. It was not a good
feeling. I seriously had to take a minute to recover, hahahha, sounds pathetic to
you but this is the PHILIPPINES! That doesn't happen. But at least I can say I
experienced it. </div>
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The triplets.... ok. I went back once since our first visit and brought a
snack and we are going to FHE with them tonight. we will see what happens.</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz64fOSe1d5JOWbUIrGFS2z8vY5J-MFEKrkYNWyD3l4EdzLOGVkMCYX6kMMDZmehXXhyjzqxs6wfkr0lg062HQdRyzlJrjS0ekZXyOe0A2g1H4fBu_EOpNXvEXRqEHg2eLRoa2rDYnB51p/s1600/13Jun2014.6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz64fOSe1d5JOWbUIrGFS2z8vY5J-MFEKrkYNWyD3l4EdzLOGVkMCYX6kMMDZmehXXhyjzqxs6wfkr0lg062HQdRyzlJrjS0ekZXyOe0A2g1H4fBu_EOpNXvEXRqEHg2eLRoa2rDYnB51p/s1600/13Jun2014.6.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This random picture with the egg shells.... that's SOOOOO Filipino. They put random egg shells on their pots and things outside their houses... just for design, hahah. Oh how I love the Philippines (=</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN"> </span><br />
<span lang="EN"> H</span>ahaha, I actually bought cardigans here- 4.... because I
bought 5 for less than 10 dollars. And I love them all. So I am so glad I'm coming
back when it gets cold. Mom I don't need clothes! Don't spend any money on that.
I will need plenty of other things.. AHH!! So much for not thinking about the
future, hahaha. </div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSq3iu2zhvMOqksp2txKJfGJplpn47FenW4NSsmUOzF-sdnhjA-Ob0bHGMrXsMECkvkBUhwj0c6RoAUmJzoKntFoOCqoerLHSHqIm9wr4Prlu48fwSitb1-s8OVGNewRy_pk7hoCQAgKl1/s1600/13Jun2014.7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSq3iu2zhvMOqksp2txKJfGJplpn47FenW4NSsmUOzF-sdnhjA-Ob0bHGMrXsMECkvkBUhwj0c6RoAUmJzoKntFoOCqoerLHSHqIm9wr4Prlu48fwSitb1-s8OVGNewRy_pk7hoCQAgKl1/s1600/13Jun2014.7.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Philippines yet again. <br />Yes that is a bunch of turkeys hanging out in a bush. <br />They were creepy. <br />I thought they were going to attack me <br />when I took their picture, haha. Oh the things you see.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span lang="EN"> </span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Haha, ohhh, how I love you and daddy. I'm glad you are so attached and miss each other. I hope that I can find someone like that too, I'm trying not to think about that though.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN">Mom... how do you feel about that... I mean the importance of a mission vs. the after mission life?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN"> Thank you mom for sharing. My problem... in my head right now is just that I really want to be a mom so bad. Over and over and over again they keep telling me that this will be the best time of my life and that this is the most important thing in the world,... don't misunderstand, I LOVE this work so much! I love being here and serving. But I would still rather be with my kids teaching them in my own home. AH!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN">Dad, mom says she loves and misses you and HI! Haha, I'm slightly confused how both of you are talking to me on the same account.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN"> Mom, that's what scares me. My p blessing says choose carefully. Its so almost unbelievable to imagine there is someone who will look PAST what they SEE and love me for ME AND THEN want the same things I want. Someone who will support and love me, that for dates I will want to read scriptures and serve people rather than go to a restaurant or spend money at the bowling alley. Someone at the same time who measures up to my family and who is better than what I've dated in the past. It just ,.... it's hard not to think about it slightly because I have such little time left, my house mate is going home in 20 days and I'm older than most of these girls. I've been in the race before. BLAH! </span> </div>
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<span lang="EN"> </span>Go take care of my Pops! I will try to write more next week mom. Sorry that for some reason the writing has gotten so much shorter. I'm trying my best though...I'm learning how to repent a little better each day. Thank you for your love and example. I love you, take care! BE SAFE!<br />
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Sister Sarah Ralph</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-74806117483862596712014-07-16T14:19:00.003-07:002014-07-16T14:19:49.599-07:006 June 2014 - Ups and Downs<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN">So this week has actually been amazing. It's had its emotional ups and downs but progressing for sure. We have so many more investigators and the members really love us-so referrals are coming in (= One of the sisters in the ward that I have been privileged to get to know is Sister Mercyln. She is in her 30's and has one little boy. Her husband committed suicide about a month ago. He hung himself right above their bed where she sleeps every night and right where we teach her and her brother-in-law and his wife. She is amazing! She puts on a smile and just is so positive. She literally never stops smiling. The way she is dealing with the pain at this point is reading her scriptures constantly and sharing the gospel. Her brother-in-law and his wife are now our investigators and are progressing. The lessons have been powerful, especially as Sister Mercyln testifies of the power of the Book of Mormon. She is a witness of the truthfulness of the gospel and I am so grateful to observe her and watch as she literally puts all her trust and faith in our Savior. We are such a blessed people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"> The brother-in-law (Brother Abad) the one we are teaching... his brother is the one that hung himself. He had bruises all over his back and legs when she found him hanging in their room. No one saw or heard though. So our investigator is not sure if it was suicide or not. It's really sad.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN"> </span>About my new area, Ormoc has no beach. It's a
ward. We walk in CITY as IN CITY!! and then bukid or mountain or out in the
beautiful area of the country. I do NOT like the city. I am such a bukid girl. The
skies, the air, the trees, the hills....that is where I feel at home.
There is the ocean right there but no sand. It is a seaport. They said there
was another BIG storm on its way to Japan that might come this way but I think
it passed. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5kyjZori0MVK9hIV4oEKr1lmK4QEDsmNlOpASEfXL_PNLGvGIMhwSiKQkHbty9OaMNoEDvotawjQagMyJUdcIshwuY34LUAHupZ4_F2IjBJnu2p_QkxAXh0x1kvc0i4ITQyYV0SA0zdPN/s1600/6July2014.2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5kyjZori0MVK9hIV4oEKr1lmK4QEDsmNlOpASEfXL_PNLGvGIMhwSiKQkHbty9OaMNoEDvotawjQagMyJUdcIshwuY34LUAHupZ4_F2IjBJnu2p_QkxAXh0x1kvc0i4ITQyYV0SA0zdPN/s1600/6July2014.2.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is what we do to get to some of our investigators.... welcome to the Philippines. No, the water is NOT clean.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR6O-KBcxAMcYScKjZW-CDzigsRVNARjD8Ws7yu8knB-pfwK9zoRM2gqa0xxNdzbO_6niz3iIT_YXcdbLHlGRE7Oxp0eYG_pNlTdmvLDlIIrEj27xO6Uy6Ht0f207OA2N1igIACflVYpT2/s1600/6July2014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR6O-KBcxAMcYScKjZW-CDzigsRVNARjD8Ws7yu8knB-pfwK9zoRM2gqa0xxNdzbO_6niz3iIT_YXcdbLHlGRE7Oxp0eYG_pNlTdmvLDlIIrEj27xO6Uy6Ht0f207OA2N1igIACflVYpT2/s1600/6July2014.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Medalla Family</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN">This is the Medalla family. We had an FHE
with them and how I love them. They remind me of home so much, loud and noisy,
always opinions flying back and forth, but still laughter. Oh man! Family is
such a beautiful thing. I love this family. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN">The second picture is of triplets in my area.
They are a very large and poor less-active family. When I showed up at their
house this week my heart just broke. These three year old triplets just stay in
this little cage type pin while the oldest sisters rocks the little boy and
cleans and does everything around the house. She stopped schooling at 4th grade
to help her family. Her parents work all day and... ah, I just wanted so badly
to do something temporarily for them. But I could not. We shared a message and
want to do all we can spiritually to uplift and bless them. We know with assuredness
that despite their hardships, if they applied the gospel and lived it they
would be so much happier. Many tears fell for this family but we are eager to
help them come unto their Savior and find the peace and joy the gospel has to
offer all the obedient. </span></div>
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They need food, clothing and housing but.... I don't know. The spirit there was just soo..... I almost would use the word ugly... like they dismissed God from their lives and literally are trying to do it all on their own. Those three little girls.... when I walked up did not change expression or anything. It was like a ghost almost walked in. They don't talk... ever. They are so deprived of just love, real love and care. Too often kids here are really just looked at as burdens rather than gems of life, the reasons for our happiness. I just held them one at a time and stroked their hair and cradled them and just some form of stimulation. I seriously was dying inside. I wanted to take them home so bad. I felt like I could see into their futures mom... we went home that night and I just lost it. I want to be a mom so bad, but experiences like that just make me want to adopt the world.<br /><span lang="EN"></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"> </span></div>
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<span lang="EN"> </span>I don't know if I mentioned this before but I
have a crush in every area. They are always about the age of 6-2. This happens
to be the crush of my Ormoc area. He is the son of our investigators. And
I LOVE HIM! He always plays with the holes in my socks while we are teaching
lessons hahaha. Oh, the tender mercies of missionary life. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKPr3QLvYkH64STdb7e8bsuXGrDala4A10M2rJOkpLxMTKmMG8wQ55emIKr55Bub1gj83UFG5xrwyyOstbRUlbyum9eFZfoCXTAdrQt05WIiF3YOMjqdGGQlMxAeST6y-mt3H3f7Ez3EKy/s1600/6July2014.4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKPr3QLvYkH64STdb7e8bsuXGrDala4A10M2rJOkpLxMTKmMG8wQ55emIKr55Bub1gj83UFG5xrwyyOstbRUlbyum9eFZfoCXTAdrQt05WIiF3YOMjqdGGQlMxAeST6y-mt3H3f7Ez3EKy/s1600/6July2014.4.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is how we celebrated 4th of July. We searched and searched for American food and were very unsuccessful... even just a burger. Nothing. So we settled with Dunkin' Doughnuts. I love America still (= </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlmW6kKalvSLn5AvKOgWPKY9-rIDW0yzhpXBdOu-cURr8qUEvSlvOLQ80iApLJxGi13tJuRYMF4P4Gl38j3Si-OYWxjTKqF7eqmfuNOODDFlxXRGv5FO_1lyygKR6_51j0pZ43AMy9sMOY/s1600/6July2014.5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlmW6kKalvSLn5AvKOgWPKY9-rIDW0yzhpXBdOu-cURr8qUEvSlvOLQ80iApLJxGi13tJuRYMF4P4Gl38j3Si-OYWxjTKqF7eqmfuNOODDFlxXRGv5FO_1lyygKR6_51j0pZ43AMy9sMOY/s1600/6July2014.5.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is at my Bishops house. We have FHE there on Sunday nights and yes he is very well-off. This picture us of me willfully and choosing to eat squid. A full blown squid ... It tastes just like chicken. The Philippines is changing me (= </span></td></tr>
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<span lang="EN"> </span><span lang="EN"> Mom! Your hair is sooooo long! Twins
kita (</span><span lang="EN">It
means we are twins! hahah)</span><span lang="EN">. Is that
enough for this week? Sorry it's lacking. </span><span lang="EN">I just don't have much more to say
but if it was really that bad I will whip out something, haha. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN"> </span>So I have a new niece, Oakley May Heath. Nice job, Lizzy. Haha Dad Your Honey misses you too. You can do it Dad! She will come home soon. Haha, I bet you are grateful that I, rather than mom, am going to Texas in November, huh? Haha, haha. Oh Sister Atwood! I love her! Tell her Hi for me (= How is it having Benjamin back? Dad, haha, I'm glad you got a little bit more spunk put back into your life with Benjamin home. Now your responsibility is to keep him ALIVE until I get home. Ok? </div>
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Benjamin, I have to go now... about those kisses.... make
sure they are from Jersey Ok? hahahaha. I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!! I will try to
remember to take more pictures for you, mom. I am always safe... I'm the biggest
thing in these parts of the world, haha. I love you all!! Take care till next
week! (= LIZ!! IM SOOOO HAPPY FOR YOU!! Everyone who can give her a hug and
kiss for me! I will come hold Oakley soon (= LOVE YOU!</div>
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<span lang="EN">Love,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN">Sister Ralph</span></div>
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<o:p></o:p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-23348681272802743392014-06-30T11:06:00.003-07:002014-06-30T11:42:28.345-07:0029 June 2014 - My little Brother is HOME<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Sorry I can't get the card reader going. And I apologize I do not have any inspiring stories this week. Please be patient with me. Opening an area is.... slightly stressful but we are doing our best.<br />
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This last Friday we had a random CSP (community service project) that we had not even heard anything about. We showed up expecting it to be a normal CSP and wanting to help. They then told us that the there was an artist slash congresswoman coming to the church and the church was working together with her program to give 2000 atops or roofs or shelters to Non-members in the surrounding areas. They wanted the people to see members and missionaries working together so they would associate missionaries more with the church and not with separate people.<br />
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So what we did is from 8 AM to almost 8 PM we were outside in the blazing heat picking up metal rooftops and bags full of nails, hammer, saws etc. and placing them along the church and the people who come in and get a little pep talk from the Artista and then they would file in along their new rooftops and we would then help them tie it all up and carry them out to the road or where ever they were going. <br />
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The thing that you don't see is that the metal we were carrying around is SHARP!!! AS IN!! SHARP! So every single person got cut multiple times. At the end of the day I counted mine... total 30 (=<br />
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During the second batch there was a lady that was tying her things together and she sliced her hand. Blood just flowed and I saw the whole thing. I ran to her and grabbed her hand and held it tight with pressure and held it high and took her to the bathroom. There is not much for cleaning supplies in the Philippines but eventually we got her cleaned up and bandaged. Right after that I suddenly felt like I was going to faint and throw up (like Father like daughter ) and had to sit down for a bit. But after that all happened the members saw me and started calling me Doctor Ralph. <br />
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That really says something when I was the best medical aid there was to offer. But so it started. I can't tell you how much blood and nasty I saw for the rest of the day, but it was enough to be glad that I did not go into a medical field. All I had to work with was cotton swabs, alcohol, tape and iodine. But we did what we could. The scariest was one lady that DASHED her knee. We had to cut her pants and her fat from her knee was pouring out. We cleaned it, bandaged it and she was off...... These people can't afford a doctor. You should have seen how courageously they all handled the pain.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A selfie right after the CSP, check the skin color....</td></tr>
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We did get a few referrals from the CSP but they wanted us really just showing that example and helping the people to see the good we were doing. They were so grateful. This CSP KILLED Me! Bishop calls me his IDOL because I was out working most of the Brethren there and did not get tired for the longest time. I LOVE WORK! I love using my hands, it's refreshing and I enjoyed every single minute. But I have to say... I have never been in so much pain in SUCH a long time. I went from SUPER WHITE to RED in one day and my shoulders are yellow and purple from carrying the roofs on my shoulders. My hands are covered in cuts and cleaning other wounds with alcohol was .... OH SOO FUN! By the end of the day, I physically could not do what I Was doing earlier. I tried to pick up the roofs and couldn't. I went home and tried to take a bath and you know how we use those little ladle things to pour water on us to bathe... I couldn't do it. I had to use both hands. Literally I was a puddle. Hahaha, BUT I LOVED IT!!! We should have more activities like that.... but with REAL doctors, hahaha.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHw-J_C78Zs8N8Msy7acvgDRI2PUjsbkPvPlvBtU1d1GfrIT86Z2tDLtS_UQJxmgsEmqI-pisY0TdafJi6X1QDdDeu-aYEDb_ZPtdceHc7kFI_qddJjD2kHYgvw5Yi6on14kaWy4PFpJ14/s1600/29Jun2014.6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHw-J_C78Zs8N8Msy7acvgDRI2PUjsbkPvPlvBtU1d1GfrIT86Z2tDLtS_UQJxmgsEmqI-pisY0TdafJi6X1QDdDeu-aYEDb_ZPtdceHc7kFI_qddJjD2kHYgvw5Yi6on14kaWy4PFpJ14/s1600/29Jun2014.6.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">The picture of me is right after the CSP and this is a <br />baptism from two days ago. <br />Do you see a difference in skin color from last week? hahahahha</span></td></tr>
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I've got a question...can you get herpes from blood to blood?<br />
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Well.. I had lots of blood to blood contact this week and then all of a sudden this weird thing popped up on my lip. I really hope it's not a cold sore.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcNBbd_m5W39w0vpOAc804IHcQjCx5FKQds5HwW99QNXTkNZ7MzCU7_LZg58ZSd95pXUeHwrunktyFWgg3A5WaxJE1HqFfy4UWS7xmQybgJBG9VZUebtJJ5mBlGr05FqKGSeBpeVPRs2-I/s1600/29Jun2014.7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcNBbd_m5W39w0vpOAc804IHcQjCx5FKQds5HwW99QNXTkNZ7MzCU7_LZg58ZSd95pXUeHwrunktyFWgg3A5WaxJE1HqFfy4UWS7xmQybgJBG9VZUebtJJ5mBlGr05FqKGSeBpeVPRs2-I/s1600/29Jun2014.7.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is where we buy our fish on P-day. <br />I love the sleeping lady. They all sleep right there. <br />We got a good laugh. I LOVE the Philippines!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjndWa95Eb8aS81ojotbl3CrsAgrYIYFsK6nw2_bc0LcVcIfLyUaLgCZgqxhuYRYMD6I5-cEtJt7cnE27vEN7V8Ptxn_DjoSlhBsM085Qs93KwdoHTEbKolE1bJXxz4wrQ8iKDj00Ou0DlV/s1600/29Jun2014.10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjndWa95Eb8aS81ojotbl3CrsAgrYIYFsK6nw2_bc0LcVcIfLyUaLgCZgqxhuYRYMD6I5-cEtJt7cnE27vEN7V8Ptxn_DjoSlhBsM085Qs93KwdoHTEbKolE1bJXxz4wrQ8iKDj00Ou0DlV/s1600/29Jun2014.10.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is our area. We have to walk across this rice field to get there (=</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Its soooo green I LOVE IT!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyZ7YWfmyEi71LAqRurT_en-JeDHSFxZxPYlJty0bTWlBCoF4EazN8FSDp8ox4SxX75JiBSFnzguHWEQblAyi9od1QXqMb2uK37V5ZEl3q4C2TspnzeCLqtZ2ze9b7a4zuLBgedbnLLZBg/s1600/29Jun2014.9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyZ7YWfmyEi71LAqRurT_en-JeDHSFxZxPYlJty0bTWlBCoF4EazN8FSDp8ox4SxX75JiBSFnzguHWEQblAyi9od1QXqMb2uK37V5ZEl3q4C2TspnzeCLqtZ2ze9b7a4zuLBgedbnLLZBg/s1600/29Jun2014.9.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The rice fields</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKCl4-pF85f0LflcFwUiTtHhwS-9N4X0HANJCVceJHzFKx1QBwQ0TPnFj5xhgow2dOcl5nOQmWNSMx7dUDcT-TgmG0ajpYThvXpzS5afq_LPTrlCQTjfzyZOsaIiY86X9-nOFKR2a21usN/s1600/29Jun2014.11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKCl4-pF85f0LflcFwUiTtHhwS-9N4X0HANJCVceJHzFKx1QBwQ0TPnFj5xhgow2dOcl5nOQmWNSMx7dUDcT-TgmG0ajpYThvXpzS5afq_LPTrlCQTjfzyZOsaIiY86X9-nOFKR2a21usN/s1600/29Jun2014.11.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">You might not be able to tell. But I'm soaked to the bone. Hahaha We are opening an area and it's been hard getting members to help us because they are busy so we get lost A LOT and it just happened to be that the rain and thunder decided to join us this day. Oh, the adventures of missionary work.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8CF_j7Ae3H5Zu6yyswGOWZzqrYoE1SHtSAS2IO7cBp0UgeN7H3J395OrtUQtczFG1trZ0S7t1n-6pGknSiL8532dS8mAO8TSJAtXfSJvZtiqlfuBfT_Ng21RSHpc28PFuHxfeR_FbHGVx/s1600/29Jun2014.8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8CF_j7Ae3H5Zu6yyswGOWZzqrYoE1SHtSAS2IO7cBp0UgeN7H3J395OrtUQtczFG1trZ0S7t1n-6pGknSiL8532dS8mAO8TSJAtXfSJvZtiqlfuBfT_Ng21RSHpc28PFuHxfeR_FbHGVx/s1600/29Jun2014.8.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Last p-day, we got home and look who decided to be a guest. HE IS a BIG one let me tell you. You can't tell in the picture but he is bigger than my hand. I killed him......eventually, haha. </span></td></tr>
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Benjamin is HOME! I want to be there with him so bad. I'm his big sister. He is my baby.... Gosh I was not expecting this to hurt so bad. It's ok mom, don't bug him. He is fine. Are you throwing a party now?<br />
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AHH! Yea,,... it just kinda of makes the tears come again. But thanks. I love him too. Mom, go enjoy yourself. YOUR SON is HOME! I will be fine. (=<br />
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AHHH! I wish I Was there!!!<br />
Oh wow. HI BISHOP!!! Mom did Benjamin get a blessing with his release? WOW! I'm grateful to feel loved... but I'm slightly stressed haha<br />
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I'm still learning this whole TRUST in God thing.... please be patient with me. Sorry I did not have any inspiration stories but I love you mom. I love you sooo much! Be safe! Tell Jon I love him and I will watch his kids for them when I get home.<br />
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Love, <br />
Sister Ralph</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-25204561544506740252014-06-24T10:12:00.001-07:002014-06-24T10:12:39.581-07:0022 June 2014 -- Transfer 7Transferred...Yes. I left Sister Bray. I am now in Ormoc Zone, a different kind of Cebuano and a Philippina Companion- Sister Tierra. She is great. Just change, change, change. And we are opening an area for my <b>6th</b> time.... what are they trying to teach me that I'm not picking up?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhtyBSwIgmD7hEtsyXe1t1ivQY-slM5ffvFQtURtlftqjsKA6iQOohFC8PWahboWN30YVvDnPny1w8JXYz6_c6sqwK_uJwuho4G1NYSfMbkn_I9rsVMZdhSEGEzuQj33z0t8TZL1sxnmxc/s1600/22Jun2014.9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhtyBSwIgmD7hEtsyXe1t1ivQY-slM5ffvFQtURtlftqjsKA6iQOohFC8PWahboWN30YVvDnPny1w8JXYz6_c6sqwK_uJwuho4G1NYSfMbkn_I9rsVMZdhSEGEzuQj33z0t8TZL1sxnmxc/s1600/22Jun2014.9.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
So funny that you told me to get checked up this week mom because I spent a lot of time in the hospital this week, but not for me, haha, for my companion, Sister Bray. We left the computer shop last week and right away before even getting on a Jeepney or tricycle, my companion was saying her back hurt. We drove somewhere to shop and get food but we walked in and I noticed my companion was being all weird... almost zombie like. I was confused and asked her what was going on. She told me her back hurt really bad and she could not feel her body weight. We went to get in line to get food to see if food would help but she could not last a minute in line. She had to sit down. She said her body was going numb and she felt like throwing up. So while she cried her eyes out with her head on the table at this restaurant in the mall - I called the zone leaders and Sister Andaya. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvNhlSa_-TO8ViZ0-b-d97hr74481bVtd8uOJd3N-N3AKOIQVe7LNzr2ykLaLoK5lgZvxF8qKw5nzdrTpOl4pL3Kzeb4o7QXVWicikf6mMctUMth4k7c3sNpmFFRVNIgM2ChivAM8WEcvU/s1600/22Jun2014.1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvNhlSa_-TO8ViZ0-b-d97hr74481bVtd8uOJd3N-N3AKOIQVe7LNzr2ykLaLoK5lgZvxF8qKw5nzdrTpOl4pL3Kzeb4o7QXVWicikf6mMctUMth4k7c3sNpmFFRVNIgM2ChivAM8WEcvU/s1600/22Jun2014.1.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"> This picture is in the mission office! <br />YES! its back! and so nice after the storm now. <br />That is Elder Quinco, he was my zone leader, <br />and now our AP. Love him! He loves me too, <br />whether he admits it or not hahah</span></td></tr>
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<br /> We ended up going to the clinic and waiting these for hours after they took her BP and it was normal and her sugar was normal. We went in to see the doctor who said she needed tests done. I was NOT impressed with the doctor at all and so I was grateful the ZL's were there to keep me calm. She started burning up too and could barely walk without me helping her. The three test results came back and said she was fine other than a slight urinary infection. She was just sooo... out of it and really started burning up. The AP's without me even knowing left Tacloban to come and get us. So within a few hours they were taking us to Tacloban because the doctors in Sogod are.... basta. <br /> We got to Tacloban at night and just pretty much went straight to bed. <br /> We went to our beds but there was no sleeping. Her back was killing her so I tried to rub it out and her fever would come and go so I tried to keep liquids down her and do whatever but it was a rough, rough night. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_mExuufhzDeRRB5ETwmK1zKveZQDcxDq1H-wLGwwzekhfRzDCogZePEbXjZtBjzgLAeCEfhpvgv40DN1iWn3D5GJ7E-xRBA3WrgIWdknpc6_FWFg_IOdnXeiXDyJMNSjCbt2AMt5fYxQn/s1600/22Jun2014.8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_mExuufhzDeRRB5ETwmK1zKveZQDcxDq1H-wLGwwzekhfRzDCogZePEbXjZtBjzgLAeCEfhpvgv40DN1iWn3D5GJ7E-xRBA3WrgIWdknpc6_FWFg_IOdnXeiXDyJMNSjCbt2AMt5fYxQn/s1600/22Jun2014.8.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Elder Burton entertaining Sister Bray.</span></td></tr>
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<br /> After that we just chilled in Tacloban- they wanted to just see how things mulled over for a day. Oh yes, she did get a beautiful blessing from Elder Lum right before coming to Tacloban. And so we hung out with the Tacloban zone- by hanging out I mean we sat in the back of their zone meeting. Sister Bray laying down on my lap, me checking her temp and helping her drink water. It was an adventure. The APs were amazing and brought us bananas and medicine that she ate out in the hall. I got to see my Ward Mission Leader from Carigara while we were out in the hall- sweet tender mercy. Within an hour from the medicine-her fever was gone and she was getting color back, by the end of the night she was walking around and talking.<div>
Her back was the last thing to get better but we literally just chilled at the mission office for a number of hours so she could be monitored and cared for. I enjoyed myself because I got to play nurse/mom and secretary because the office elders let me help organize papers and get the office more in order. At least I was being productive with time. Towards the end of the night Elder Burton and his companion were put in charge of us and they did a fantastic job keeping Sister Bray smiling and fed- they personally made mashed potatoes and chicken soup. We are loved (=<br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxqzvjc7H6qFCDjwMUCkUik1h_zyVwjOaYpwjFGeBPaKgeoowdZa5Qa-0fdWIiGRmcGD6mxA_LE04Btosyc9pL037eLojOvkJwstcZR6JyPaLFKodSMTjN8F9litS7SDZb7H6SYlcR5bN9/s1600/22Jun2014.3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxqzvjc7H6qFCDjwMUCkUik1h_zyVwjOaYpwjFGeBPaKgeoowdZa5Qa-0fdWIiGRmcGD6mxA_LE04Btosyc9pL037eLojOvkJwstcZR6JyPaLFKodSMTjN8F9litS7SDZb7H6SYlcR5bN9/s1600/22Jun2014.3.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is JesNeph (Jesus Nephi), a little member boy who I love. <br />He is so cute! The name got beat... <br />I met a family here who named their boy "Christ" <br />and he has NO nickname- unlike all Filipinos. <br />Sister Tierra and I call him "Baby C", haha.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihnguavMCbEtH107MsfdreMFR1cFfMSl5Peeqjmneq1foybp672LgH3cHORqXVn56ON0ojZJS1S5EcSCBxqinh1qgIrV5h1aehGjvlOvxyqyjlw18NTLvD9WkTQ7vveA-q-VygBaWPtU5p/s1600/22Jun2014.4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihnguavMCbEtH107MsfdreMFR1cFfMSl5Peeqjmneq1foybp672LgH3cHORqXVn56ON0ojZJS1S5EcSCBxqinh1qgIrV5h1aehGjvlOvxyqyjlw18NTLvD9WkTQ7vveA-q-VygBaWPtU5p/s1600/22Jun2014.4.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">A school with a bunch of kids practicing a dance performance.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiomSJPwY-9ztpjtCtcbPQAXv3PFkbEJZx5pHVpkA9uIlnjdAbnr45Juy8i8bk4vpidWwl1QbpWZYGRFsPajDWpjNIFQLemf0s5pZVps1lT8y5xwYSpagpybXiuPqXc1Wc0fYGI25mzxK5G/s1600/22Jun2014.5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiomSJPwY-9ztpjtCtcbPQAXv3PFkbEJZx5pHVpkA9uIlnjdAbnr45Juy8i8bk4vpidWwl1QbpWZYGRFsPajDWpjNIFQLemf0s5pZVps1lT8y5xwYSpagpybXiuPqXc1Wc0fYGI25mzxK5G/s1600/22Jun2014.5.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is my favorite little boy who I taught how to make this <br />cool popping noise with his lips. We are best of friends. </span></td></tr>
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So the news finally came and yes I was transferred- so unexpected, hahaha, please... I'M ALWAYS transferred, 7th area now (= So I came in perfect timing for the District Conference with President Ardern! I saw him in the chapel and went straight up to him and told him how much I loved him and how I nearly was in tears when I heard him pray in conference knowing how humble and how he truly is a hero for me personally (he is the one that got us from Tacloban) I did not realize after I left him that I grabbed his arm! I'm SOO BAD!! I just grabbed the arm of my area president!!! Seriously Sister RALPH!! REALLY? I'm such a doof!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN7xpJK_4-EvtDRYiT5Hk7tH2pKDBK6TiXYKHDiE3ix5FrJ8Iyb6o9jsfHEJpzDd5_vjNgUIZwTTENHRQuaHKVcjFxwdx0pA23FiAihDNb5CY6imCwGuLzFl-2fvq2GIJEapzXjm9AX-_V/s1600/22Jun2014.6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN7xpJK_4-EvtDRYiT5Hk7tH2pKDBK6TiXYKHDiE3ix5FrJ8Iyb6o9jsfHEJpzDd5_vjNgUIZwTTENHRQuaHKVcjFxwdx0pA23FiAihDNb5CY6imCwGuLzFl-2fvq2GIJEapzXjm9AX-_V/s1600/22Jun2014.6.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elder Ardern</td></tr>
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The picture below is of Sister Johnadee-our investigator in Sogod. I'm so sad I will not get to see her progress. She is one of the sisters that came to church and my last day there, we taught her, and you could see her love and amazement for the Book of Mormon in her eyes. She was already making applications to her own life and recognized the spirit as she read. She is a convert to the Book of Mormon and I am so excited for her. (= I love being a missionary!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP1ZsLs413lVuhnAD-vFIUS6hIgPBaW8rr4lqqti8ME5CtwVZUyZEQtsa0sN0zASGPbdkXFLpizUlz6e1KloccJNdG1CCCfmIZBtoOvnahkRazD1U6A7QSf02U_y6nvGuXMptkqk1ew9ek/s1600/22Jun2014.2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP1ZsLs413lVuhnAD-vFIUS6hIgPBaW8rr4lqqti8ME5CtwVZUyZEQtsa0sN0zASGPbdkXFLpizUlz6e1KloccJNdG1CCCfmIZBtoOvnahkRazD1U6A7QSf02U_y6nvGuXMptkqk1ew9ek/s1600/22Jun2014.2.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-size: 9pt;">Sister
Johnadee- our investigator in Sogod with a </span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-size: 9pt;">RS member Maryjane in the white- she
is incredible!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /><br />So now my companion is this cute little Philippina -Sister Tierra, She is about a year into the mission and is from Bacolod (= We get along great and I am so excited to get to know her. She has a strong testimony and she is helping me cook (= YES! Love her already. She is Ilango and Waray-waray but the Cebuano will come quick to her.<br /><br />Below are a few pictures of Ormoc.. It's a huge zone.<br /><br />Scene Llang. It's a beautiful area. We are assigned to the city but it looks like we will be spending most of our time out here in the more bukid part. We have a great bishop and they said that the storm really did miracles for the Less-active members here and the retention is awesome. We are excited to see what miracles come our way as we are exactly obedient and rely on the Lord. Oh the Joys ahead!! Today I have 4 months left- no time to waste! I have soooooo much to learn and do before I go ANYWHERE! (= I love missionary work!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-vDK-SQ6nW5TAaqBjthiUOxiSR94jHf9ocBoRw7fL2aitg55XTinQFh6JNGOrycETzRkWQcAXTBJgsjy46GDO72sU5MND-Aaw5OoUYcDpPGLbIWm0vjxS5PS5DgM5AuBrjX_MXOVgjEwk/s1600/22Jun2014.7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-vDK-SQ6nW5TAaqBjthiUOxiSR94jHf9ocBoRw7fL2aitg55XTinQFh6JNGOrycETzRkWQcAXTBJgsjy46GDO72sU5MND-Aaw5OoUYcDpPGLbIWm0vjxS5PS5DgM5AuBrjX_MXOVgjEwk/s1600/22Jun2014.7.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sister Tierra and me in Ormoc zone.</td></tr>
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<br /><br />Yes, Ormoc is the city.<br /><br />I apologize I look terrible in the pix but it's all I got. I was a big of a disaster this past week and most of the pictures were taken right after sweating my brains out trying to clean our apartment or something like that. So I apologize. Also my wardrobe is so little now . The labahan in Sogod stole like half of my shirts... no joke, haha. Love the Philippines.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /><br />Please don't leave out details for when Benjamin comes home. I wish I could be there with you all. I love you so much! Take care. Be safe.<br /> <br /> Love ,<br />Sister Ralph</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-38357813789911431012014-06-16T13:11:00.000-07:002014-06-16T13:11:10.022-07:0015 June 2014 -- Happy Father's Day<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvUL-FE_gqH7WD0SCh8JPunB0jr6hotozXPiXDIkjL9-a9lOZPLzixQGr5hvmgp0ZA-uOP6FKbs9IxNjB8f_eku1rEWRh9qwG1EwxX02PiaKFWztSqB2DihJ_0_VIqjeeCdpS4O6x9amlZ/s1600/15Jun2014.1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvUL-FE_gqH7WD0SCh8JPunB0jr6hotozXPiXDIkjL9-a9lOZPLzixQGr5hvmgp0ZA-uOP6FKbs9IxNjB8f_eku1rEWRh9qwG1EwxX02PiaKFWztSqB2DihJ_0_VIqjeeCdpS4O6x9amlZ/s1600/15Jun2014.1.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Ok, this is my zone. It's changed now though because our zone leader just left to become AP. AHH!! Weird</span></td></tr>
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To My Dad -- THE PICTURES EXPLAIN!!</div>
Hahahahahaha They are ALL things I LOVE ABOUT HIM!!!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhianywvhk2lQg90HnB3bEqKo5MBCPgMd-xwoN1G0ymAeF77IbAo0XjkyES26LEMwtEOLnojxu5Iog7TRWq96zIznSZsXbAjw1-DPZ-vQlqoMs7CFrjgCk9XHpL7gUgJPAQvRxprtnSMdKx/s1600/15Jun2014.2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhianywvhk2lQg90HnB3bEqKo5MBCPgMd-xwoN1G0ymAeF77IbAo0XjkyES26LEMwtEOLnojxu5Iog7TRWq96zIznSZsXbAjw1-DPZ-vQlqoMs7CFrjgCk9XHpL7gUgJPAQvRxprtnSMdKx/s1600/15Jun2014.2.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a> Sooo.... I know this man and as you can see in the pictures he is a man of many, many talents and quirks. He can take anything broken and in what seems an instant.... it is fixed.<br />
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And with a cute and very contented look on his face... he finishes the job. (=<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqKbyR63ilYM37P9a0iYTRUDH-1GKZpMjfpbufAPI-sFB-rG4kshXzcDwFEVDqZ_du8QnqrPJW_9cHpdxWJu0H3xcx4Hv8FCUTWGCamIVuP_bnK2T_9fRLzCnXTOvnCNU7wmY_Rk3dn8ET/s1600/15Jun2014.4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqKbyR63ilYM37P9a0iYTRUDH-1GKZpMjfpbufAPI-sFB-rG4kshXzcDwFEVDqZ_du8QnqrPJW_9cHpdxWJu0H3xcx4Hv8FCUTWGCamIVuP_bnK2T_9fRLzCnXTOvnCNU7wmY_Rk3dn8ET/s1600/15Jun2014.4.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a><br />
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He is brave, courageous quick and strong as can be.... but when it comes to blood. Just let him be.<br />
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We always want him with us..... Except in the Kitchen....<br />
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Every ones favorite is "Joy to the World". But he has a unique way of singing along....<br />
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With all his quirks and talents he is also the man that I turn to for everything. The man I look up to and respect, a humble father, a loving husband and a Man of God. HAPPY FATHERS DAY DAD!! I love you so much and reflect on your example constantly. You have done more in forwarding the work of God here on this earth than you can possibly imagine. I Hope you had a wonderful day!!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is at an FHE with the Amerila family who we love!</span></td></tr>
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Ok Here is my week:<br /> So we have this investigator who is in her late thirties. Her name is Inday Dizone and we have taught her a few times and the progression has been slow but the potential is obvious. She has read from the Book of Mormon but still not comfortable with coming to church. We are really trying to focus on her getting that testimony for herself through prayer. This last week we had two sisters from the ward come with us and they talked LITERALLY for 2 and a half HOURS! I don't know if I can paint this picture clearly... Filipinos do NOT talk like Americans. In America if you interrupt it's rude and you are not really listening. Here... if you don't interrupt... it's weird. There is no silence or quiet between speakers...it's almost, I would say, a talent how they make these transitions and still make sense of everything even though they talk over each other. My companion and I just sat and listened happy at least that they were fellowshipping and that she would hopefully feel more comfortable coming to church with knowing these two sisters. Two days later.... we go back... AGAIN!! Another hour and a half later.... of PURE chicka chicka,... talking, talking. But the second time was so amazing to me. I was able to step back and evaluate what was going on. Yes, we could have gotten more appointments in, we could have talked to more people, but here two white spoiled medjo selfish young American girls left everything they love behind-- half way around the world in order to sit on the floor in the BLAZING heat, sweating bullets, thirsty, hungry, and struggling to understand the insanely fast Cebuano about payments and loans and laundry... in order for this woman to feel that she is loved, in order for this ONE PERSON to know that she has a Savior and to learn of the Message of the Restoration. I was able to truly find holiness in that hour and a half. I love being a missionary. He truly opens our eyes to see what is truly beyond what our eyes can comprehend. <br /> This week was actually FANTASTIC!! Things are finally coming together!! We got nine new investigators and we are meeting professionals!! yes! Heavenly Father is Answering our Sincere Prayers!! We are soo happy! We were THRILLED when two of our investigators came to church, two sisters who brought their kids. They stayed all three hours and they really inspired the members to get involved. Members kept coming up and saying how nice it was to see new faces in church. And they were fellowshipped and it was everything missionaries live for. I Love being a missionary! My testimony of the power of members just accelerates every single week. <br /> I think one of my personal favorite classes of people to teach as a missionary are less-actives. It sounds terrible but I always feel the spirit guide my tongue and the scriptures from the Book of Mormon ALWAYS ALWAYS have exactly what they need to hear. It's incredible. I wish I could just have you all there with me when we teach but we walk into these houses and we know they are not super excited to see us but they let us in any way because they are Pinoy and they are hospitable. We chat and talk and their concerns come out... it's too cold in the church, they don't want to go to church without their spouse, they are offended, No one will force me to go to church.... We have heard it all. And yet... the Book of Mormon is filled with promises and reminders that just seem to make everything seem so unimportant. How I love the Book of Mormon. It really, truly is the key stone of God's religion. It has helped me in my OWN life to see how Satan has thrown darts at me. But slowly I'm throwing back darts his way as I study the scriptures and pray for guidance. Man... I just love everything about the Gospel! Everything makes sense! Everything is soo... REAL! Being a missionary is the best! <br /> Ohh, One other thing I want to share. So I had read a few weeks ago President Monson's talk this last conference about love and being kind. He said, "may we all look for opportunities to be kind".... We were leaving a Less-active's house and it was getting late. In the corner of my eye I saw this woman just sitting by herself on the side of the road. I looked deeper into her face... her eyes and she just had sorrow written into her face. I literally heard President Monson's voice come into my head... look for opportunities to show a little kindness....<br /> I grabbed my companion and we just took 20 minutes to talk to this woman and find out what her concerns and worries were. She teared up and we shared the message of the restoration with her. We were getting ready to leave and she just had this huge smile on her face and she said she was so happy we came and talked to her. There was no number we could take credit for in our key indicators for the day but the satisfying feeling... knowing we had done good in the world was beautiful and lasting. I love the gospel of Jesus Christ- a religion of kindness.<br /> Transfers are this week. <br /> YES Ma'am! I will do everything to be safe and healthy mom. I bought TONS of fruits this morning(= Thank you for your concern, I love you too! I'm going to go eat and I will talk to you next week. In the mean time, focus on Dad... its father's day! Give him a Kiss and Tell him I love him! I love you soo much mom! You are the BEST MOM in the WHOLE WORLD!! All my Love!!!<br /> <br />Sister RalphUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-46396774797336409242014-06-09T13:00:00.001-07:002014-06-09T13:39:23.572-07:008 June 2014 -- Pictures worth a thousand words...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ok Mom, here is your late Mother's day gift... a billion pictures. Sorry not much to say but a picture is worth a thousand words so... technically I'm speaking ALOT.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"> Tacloban Mission Conference</span></td></tr>
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This is us in Tacloban getting a pedicure (=<br />
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Ok those three explain what me and Sister Bray did while we waited in Tacloban before our service project.<br />
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That was Wednesday. Thursday morning was the project.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Service Project cleaning a special park.</td></tr>
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The entire mission met at MacArthur Park but this place is special to all Tacloban missionaries because this is where you come and get assigned your trainer and language and where you are going when you FIRST come into the field.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This next one is my awesome zone before we get to work.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is Elder Burton.... He misses my sass in his district <br />but as you can see he continues to work hard <br />with his wizard skills in Tacloban zone. Haha luv the kid</span></td></tr>
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So we were separated into zones and then just went to work. Some had to pick up trash. We were assigned to pick up rocks and pile them... I'm still sore... it sounds easy but my legs... are dead,haha. LOVE IT, others had to clean out the pond, some weeded... we just tried to beautify the place really and it looks so much better. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is Elder Panganiban working hard. <br />He is a great missionary and has a <br />beautiful voice. He is a lot like an <br />American...it's weird.</span></td></tr>
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It was a treat for many of us because a number of RM's and our MTC teachers were there. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">The picture with the Sister by the statues is Sister Lindsey- <br />she was in Tacloban during the storm. She is an angel.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is Brother Pasikala my MTC teacher and my companion. He taught both of us and when he found out we were companions he said "wow, that's a dynamic companionship" hahahaha not sure what that means but people love us, soooo no one's complaining (=</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSoOzx2TQYbgpQI7DUUMlT6LNCboSuyBVjMO-UY4xsE2khS2VoJ6TNpDdiEHcZ0mcblX7qNfW2PeULkHh0Prba_4RELZSp3N4QpelofilGHh3HFh1jB-Ed8cwf_D1QREL-pO89YqSdzBFp/s1600/8Jun2014.27.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSoOzx2TQYbgpQI7DUUMlT6LNCboSuyBVjMO-UY4xsE2khS2VoJ6TNpDdiEHcZ0mcblX7qNfW2PeULkHh0Prba_4RELZSp3N4QpelofilGHh3HFh1jB-Ed8cwf_D1QREL-pO89YqSdzBFp/s1600/8Jun2014.27.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is a picture of Sogod zone... with our matching t-shirts. "SOGOD" on our shirts is made of little things that kind of explain our life as missionaries in Tacloban and its really cool, I will show you when I get home (=</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is my Batch! We love each other and have a lot of fun. It's really cool because this day happened to be our ONE YEAR MARK!!! ... in the Philippines.... so we thought we would celebrate (= </span></td></tr>
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This is Sister Fotofili and Sister Agreda and Elder Murdock my zone leader from Borongan!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sr Fotofil, me, Sr. Agreda and Elder Murdock</td></tr>
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I miss and love them very much. Elder Murdock took over our area there and so it was good to get caught up on what is going on and how our investigators are progressing. The Calos family are getting baptized!!! YES!!!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Elder Carling (secret but I hope he is the next AP) <br />he is a terrific example of what a consecrated <br />missionary should be like. He is from Montana....<br />random, hahaha.</span></td></tr>
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Elder Quinco made them, my zone leader now. Can you see the pictures?<br />
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Ok, that's all you get for the service project. We need a huge group photo but I think they sent it to everyones email and I will find it and send it to you.<br />
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So this was the devotional after the CSP. The devotional was beautiful. The Andaya family sang "Helaman's Army" song and all the missionaries joined in on the last verse. I bawled like a child. It was soo good to listen and be able to say Goodbye to president and Sister Andaya. I love them so much! They changed this mission!! We all cried and just felt the spirit and after it was all done we took pictures and the islanders did the HAKA for us... which you see below.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBZTqQRZjzuopDJOhkIRjW2llXTgaAoKEAMwWflK3o0CfKRMJeHdPIwbagCYSIlS3A5KPYmTfWlo8tCcpxn12AArN-ksHqHCBFK0Mlcu_GVj_CF0rKJfAVcxMNFYUTanzL7OEmXZWzY_F5/s1600/8Jun2014.16.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBZTqQRZjzuopDJOhkIRjW2llXTgaAoKEAMwWflK3o0CfKRMJeHdPIwbagCYSIlS3A5KPYmTfWlo8tCcpxn12AArN-ksHqHCBFK0Mlcu_GVj_CF0rKJfAVcxMNFYUTanzL7OEmXZWzY_F5/s1600/8Jun2014.16.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This picture at first looks inappropriate but you have to understand. This Elder was in Bacolod with me. He went straight from the MTC to Bacolod and then later finally came to Tacloban where he was assigned. (this was due to the storm). We were in the same zone and then he comes here and I don't know if you could see it but he did the HAKA and he is from New Zealand. He got INTO IT!! He was soo intense everyone wanted to shake his hand afterward ... his tongue is so big and long...it was even MORE out there when he did the HAKA. So this is a shout out and a Respect to Elder Anderson.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is Sister Estes and Sister Agreda...two of my favorite people.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9qzzMIFJ55hRnp0C3j9pWJFgU8X2dcgjLc8in2K3B1FhzSlWYWeWvoNiJx5UoKi_weemvOSALoX4jJ3KyRZO29EPtPZWjP0PtlLUKOW_MmmKRqy5Yo4Pp6Kzhu6qUZhtTNtMjy1Q9YQ-J/s1600/8Jun2014.18.JPG" height="480" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">The big group is all of the missionaries in Tacloban mission that Brother Pasikala taught. He is a legend. I am grateful I was able to talk one on one with him and get some really good advice. I'm older than him but he is soo full of wisdom and the spirit. It was so good to talk to him and he told me that he could see in all of our eyes how happy we are. It's true... I AM SO HAPPY! (=</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGhciNkNwmWczzYW0IvLMq6je3bAPtT7_AVNXCisId63NhTadPiVi3ogJ_T2t1VSZFWHG4i5cnfpV60_g6YOodq_Rx-GE236v7pnRaeP5lsmitWYgpR5hgBJJSgk6JAj08mBJOd563K2Pi/s1600/8Jun2014.15.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGhciNkNwmWczzYW0IvLMq6je3bAPtT7_AVNXCisId63NhTadPiVi3ogJ_T2t1VSZFWHG4i5cnfpV60_g6YOodq_Rx-GE236v7pnRaeP5lsmitWYgpR5hgBJJSgk6JAj08mBJOd563K2Pi/s1600/8Jun2014.15.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is Sister Hogge- she is my STL. or my Sister Training Leader <br />and I love her to death. She is so humble and just so much <br />fun to have around.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Elder Burton and Elder Stead. I love these two so much. <br />Elder Stead was my district leader and out of all Elders <br />in the field that I have met, I have learned the Most from him. <br />I'm excited that we are going home batch!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Elder Lum- from Hawaii. .. he is my zone leader now and we have lots of fun together. He is a recent convert to the church and another example of how the atonement really can change people, if they want it more than anything else. I love this Elder! He has one transfer left! AHH!!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ga2-kuPD8VHkZVitI_09ih06tpj3-EVHbDbqH42QLjxpaY649ivh6hIQkELmTpXrSlbB640DNdJNo3JgGqvji6Io9IWOXLzWSTBfCkKYZcX5DefiTwSc-onOwddpC_pfcvEZ9XPG78I7/s1600/8Jun2014.11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ga2-kuPD8VHkZVitI_09ih06tpj3-EVHbDbqH42QLjxpaY649ivh6hIQkELmTpXrSlbB640DNdJNo3JgGqvji6Io9IWOXLzWSTBfCkKYZcX5DefiTwSc-onOwddpC_pfcvEZ9XPG78I7/s1600/8Jun2014.11.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Last one... Sister Nelson. Another STL, she goes home in one transfer too. She is a sweetheart and a volleyball player. All of these people have impacted me and changed me for good in one way or another. Missions are amazing!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAxzb9a_sQI6jC_PqUR5a_Jn2mIckNKQruJk50sinRJLfI3E-GreFZ-wzWnXYlTdutndOxMxbhrpKR8ZDz70Y9l6zJZbTRk-WoYW0xgUkZdYRsg4hxckSTXDgbrqiOv4t57DRLp2LkhN7s/s1600/8Jun2014.12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAxzb9a_sQI6jC_PqUR5a_Jn2mIckNKQruJk50sinRJLfI3E-GreFZ-wzWnXYlTdutndOxMxbhrpKR8ZDz70Y9l6zJZbTRk-WoYW0xgUkZdYRsg4hxckSTXDgbrqiOv4t57DRLp2LkhN7s/s1600/8Jun2014.12.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Now this is on one way home. You get to see the mature side of the Elders in my zone hahahaha, They are actually all very good dedicated servants of the Lord. They talk to everyone and just have fun doing it. I'm going to miss them (=</span></td></tr>
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Moving on!! So this is the wedding of Sister Daylin (our investigator). They needed to get married before she could get baptized and so Saturday was an exciting day for everyone! Though I have to admit, I am happy that my wedding will be in America. As sweet and simple as it was. TEMPLE!!! But this was a beautiful baby step for them in the right direction of becoming an eternal family. (=<br />
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More wedding pictures. This is at our chapel<br />
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Next exciting event is the baptism. 2 hours after the wedding was Daylin's baptism. Ok.... I have to tell you this. So Elder Lowe is my district leader and of course at first he thought I was weird and quoting from him he said "The first two weeks I was your district leader I was like 'what did I get myself into?'"... but of course.. now he loves me, hahaha. But any way, so he was the one to baptize her. The first time she kind of freaked out when he put her under the water. <br />
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So they did it again, /// again... she freaked out. Third time her feet came up. After the fourth time when she came out of the water they lost balance and it looked like they were doing water aerobics... I accidentally laughed so loud. It was like a Jessica laugh. I promise it was an accident but I just could not help it. FINALLY on the 6th time... she was correctly and completely baptized by immersion. It was so memorable. Elder Lowe of course heard me laugh from the font after the fourth time and he told me afterward that he thought to himself "I'm never talking to Sister Ralph again!" Hahahahhaha! But we still talk and he still loves me. District unity. We just laugh and joke about it all the time now, 6 times, hahaha. Good times in the mission. (=<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hot chocolate with ANTS!</td></tr>
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The orange picture is me and Sister Bray my companion this morning before we climbed Isang Lubi. It's the highest mountain around here and at the top is just ONE coconut tree. It's pretty cool. So we are drinking a hot chocolate (only 5 pesos) and I had drunken half of it when I looked in and saw all these floating things....hahah. YEP... lots and lots of ants. Dead now. I'm sure many more are safely in my tummy, but we drank it, haha. Welcome to the Philippines (=<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgspDEDmR9j1_4TioifyQv3V9F9n6g6iegCp_NQchgcILe4SDexa9NIwx9ivObtMmnL6eAqvFerplVDQ3ZGRbcnUahc3-Fa0iGdRkC6l1et1SOpStFil8vtn7Wzw31ev5K1Ne8icMg6gEuk/s1600/8Jun2014.3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgspDEDmR9j1_4TioifyQv3V9F9n6g6iegCp_NQchgcILe4SDexa9NIwx9ivObtMmnL6eAqvFerplVDQ3ZGRbcnUahc3-Fa0iGdRkC6l1et1SOpStFil8vtn7Wzw31ev5K1Ne8icMg6gEuk/s1600/8Jun2014.3.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hubble hubble rides</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Don't judge any of these pictures huh.... it was early morning haha. So this was our hubble-hubble ride up part of the mountain. But crazy enough I actually had to switch hubble-hubbles and ended up riding with the Elders, which was completely inspired because the sister's hubble-hubble actually crashed on the way up. If I had been on that bike I would have gotten hurt- I know it. None of the sisters were harmed because they were more in the front and are light weights. But we being big and in the back would have flown. God is so good to me!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqDrDvTh32LZ7DnLcVYwCNswDBRJMIpQUzMjxMeB5gp6cOkDsxnTeRa-x3uHNIte5YQDBgJlz2FL1BbCRgraoI7ZWRterCoNVdWZi-_5h5zvZ6kRzxUF6eWuvuY8CKG8pGmatbRf-5su0L/s1600/8Jun2014.4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqDrDvTh32LZ7DnLcVYwCNswDBRJMIpQUzMjxMeB5gp6cOkDsxnTeRa-x3uHNIte5YQDBgJlz2FL1BbCRgraoI7ZWRterCoNVdWZi-_5h5zvZ6kRzxUF6eWuvuY8CKG8pGmatbRf-5su0L/s1600/8Jun2014.4.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is me on my first attempt to climb isang lubi. It's not as easy as it looks</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwlGLTumvN1r5TCWczApMl6xJEgCR8vLNFa1ETKaZoEXd8NQ84rrfFXA-A8LEjp69iCKGj3sUrlpZnrE4BmcrK8aigVkrguejSV_qRlhJPdQUXdR7qcphasR8TBmCR7HFSXBZOWQ1j9TJm/s1600/8Jun2014.2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwlGLTumvN1r5TCWczApMl6xJEgCR8vLNFa1ETKaZoEXd8NQ84rrfFXA-A8LEjp69iCKGj3sUrlpZnrE4BmcrK8aigVkrguejSV_qRlhJPdQUXdR7qcphasR8TBmCR7HFSXBZOWQ1j9TJm/s1600/8Jun2014.2.JPG" height="640" width="360" /></a>Ok this is my Birthday Email for JENNA, BEKA and GRACIE! Ok, so I might have to explain this picture but hopefully not... the coconut tree is the candle on your birthday cake and I am on the candle. I brought a picture of each of you up to the top of this hill which that in itself was an accomplishment and then I climbed this tree and ripped open my foot for all of you. I was going to take a picture with your pictures and me on the tree but it's scarier than it looks. The first time I did not get so high. I had to face my fears and try again to get up higher... after much more blood, tree burns and sweat and shaking muscles I hope you all know that I did it for you and I love you all so much!<br />
<br />
<br />
HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!! I wish I could be there with you all but please know that you have been in my thoughts and prayers and especially on your birthday I hope its memorable and you feel and know how truly loved you are!<br />
<br />
Love you all,<br />
Sister Ralph<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-2467064695326711512014-06-02T12:02:00.003-07:002014-06-02T12:04:16.447-07:001 June 2014 This week has not been super eventful but this week will be. I'm super excited because the whole mission is getting together one last time to do a CSP (community service project) in Tacloban. This will be the last time I probably see President Andaya, AHH!!!<br />
So this week (including today) I will have attended two funerals this week. I stopped counting how many dead people I have seen here in the Philippines.... its super depressing to me. I have a hard time with the way that they embalm the bodies. But what normally happens is the person dies and then within the day or so the embalming happens and they are placed in a white casket with flowers, and candles and signs in the front room of their house. They stay that way for about 4 days and there may be a number of different services depending on the religion in the family. Then the burial will happen the following day. So this week it was the brother of our last Branch President who is now inactivate and the funeral today is for the sister of our primary president. Both are in our area. I love the plan of salvation. Life would be such a happier place if we all understood it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqvrf1UJplpc6jwQNbYxHGZRhpaN3p3kM0q7-q1xJhEDKvpgUM-d_Tn_mqY8FN-TKasM8OdEJQKnFH45YoxtqW3mX0eadVCmogZQTW_HafBIwlbuBL_jjXK4Nk0l2M_74eSOi5Mw6GRlV8/s1600/1Jun2014.1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqvrf1UJplpc6jwQNbYxHGZRhpaN3p3kM0q7-q1xJhEDKvpgUM-d_Tn_mqY8FN-TKasM8OdEJQKnFH45YoxtqW3mX0eadVCmogZQTW_HafBIwlbuBL_jjXK4Nk0l2M_74eSOi5Mw6GRlV8/s1600/1Jun2014.1.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is a picture of my first SALAD in the Philippines. <br />God does care about our little desires and cravings haha. <br />I waited a year and at last...I partook (=</span></td></tr>
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Sister Bray and I discussed our situations this week and decided that we should ask for priesthood blessings. And I am so grateful we did, I was quite surprised at the promises and blessings that were given to me. And they have been a driving force in our work this week. I love the priesthood and I am grateful for worthy priesthood holders that respect their responsibility in acting in the name of the Lord. <br />
We were invited to eat at a member's house this week for their little son's birthday and quite the gang showed up. I decided to sneak out the back and start doing the dishes. I love doing dishes..I don't know why but it's just really satisfying to me. All the people that would walk by freaked out... WHAT?... An American doing OUR dishes?... Oh no no no no no.... but ME being Bigger and Stronger held my ground. The Pilipino people are such grateful humble and beautiful people and I love every tiny opportunity I have to serve them, to love them and to learn from them. <br />
So .... Sister Bray and I were walking home one night and it was pretty dark outside minus this one lantern. And I was doing my best to be observant and we are walking and talking and then all of a sudden in the corner of my eye I see something along the house move super quick but I could not tell exactly what it was. I accidentally kind of screamed a little (it was a automatic reaction) and grabbed Sister Bray's arm and pulled her tight into me.... until... I then realized that it was our shadows. Yea.......... I ,.... was embarrassed and we still laugh about it to this day. Oh Sister Ralph.... slightly pathetic.<br />
So RIGHT after I freaked out over our shadow we got home and I had to finish some laundry real quick in the CR (Bathroom) and within 5 MINUTES!! 5 MINUTES!! I broke the faucet. Everything in the Philippines hates me...the elders had to come right over because I literally broke it straight over and the water was just pouring out and there was no way to stop it. They made fun of me to no end because it's always ME! I'm always the one to break things and flood the apartment and trip on the rocks in the road and .... I have no explanation. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4nnCiOk_AJBm1I6WfaWbI4t3ci7kRbDVOYZ4Ufxhp2u66_NK7AEx7sgEkRQnppZ_nyBjsQiGIJdtsfvTANfr-Op40Q6c5zxRclvG7e3bDw75Dg7L-3VIkHQkUQPwy8Q4lnMel1VFzFBYQ/s1600/1Jun2014.2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4nnCiOk_AJBm1I6WfaWbI4t3ci7kRbDVOYZ4Ufxhp2u66_NK7AEx7sgEkRQnppZ_nyBjsQiGIJdtsfvTANfr-Op40Q6c5zxRclvG7e3bDw75Dg7L-3VIkHQkUQPwy8Q4lnMel1VFzFBYQ/s1600/1Jun2014.2.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This</span><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"> pix is just a couple of kids, all cute, sitting in the </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">only shade around in the church lot. <br />Its hot here, haha. And we got a good laugh. </span></td></tr>
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<div>
<br />
Just a few good reminders for me this week.... We taught a family who- the sister is an RM and her husband recently got baptized. It's been over a year since though and so they should be going to the temple and so we went to see how we could help get them prepared. It was really depressing as we talked with them and you could feel the lack of sincerity in his desire to go to the temple. We talked about keeping the Sabbath day holy because he works on Sunday and his response of "Oh yea, next month"..." next month I will start doing that" just RANG like acid in our ears (not that I know what that feels like but you get the idea). We observed the sister as her husband spoke and we could all feel the heaviness in her heart and she knew that this is what she chose by marrying outside of the temple. Nothing is certain outside the temple. We can't force people to change. We can't force them to want what we want. Nothing is worth marrying outside the temple to me... Nothing. That was not a decision that I made this week, and I would say it was more solidified this week but that's not true either. My mind has been made up LONG time ago. It just was reconfirmed.<br />
I have been studying and focusing a lot in my scripture study about having that change of heart. We have to offer a broken heart and contrite spirit in order to be saved. I've reflected back again and again on what that means these last few weeks and I am continually amazed at how things become clear when I replace the word "heart" for the word "desire" in my scripture study. Our heart is what we DESIRE! I am putting the pieces together that I am not here to help people change their behavior and suddenly follow all the commandments. I am here to help them see the truth and have a DESIRE to act on what they know or feel to be true. Those desires that we have are what drive us. If we desire something truly and fully we do whatever is required. We act. Think of when you are hungry....what do you do... you go get food. We as humans go to great lengths to feed our tummies. We want to help people see and have the desire to feed their spirits as well. It may sound cheesy but it's helped me a lot to focus on helping others develop real FAITH in Christ. I love the Spirit.<br />
Another thing that I learned this week was the IMPORTANCE OF MEMBERS! They are seriously angels! I think that is why I have not been as successful in the field as I would like, because I do not always fully use the members or focus on them. That's changing! Especially recent converts, their testimonies make a world of difference. They always in a way force people to realize that there is more. More that Jesus Christ has to offer than simply wearing a cross around your neck for protection. They simply become slightly open minded. Why did this person leave what I believe in to go to "Mormons"? I love members, I love people, and I love the work of the Lord! It really is the best thing in the world and I always want to be anxiously engaged in it.<br />
Elder Ardern was made the new Asia Area President. I LOVE ELDER Ardern! He is the one that came and literally got us out of Tacloban. He is special to me. It's dangerous everywhere Dad, don't worry. We are safe and I really am a giant here... it's not an exaggeration. People constantly comment on it. <br />
So it sounds like I will most likely have someone else release me as a missionary... weird! We are not going to start talking about me taking off my badge though...I already cry every time I do. Ah! Cge. <br />
I love you very much, Dad. Your example of magnifying your calling, honoring your priesthood and loving the Lord with all your heart might mind and strength is constantly a strength that I pull on each day. You make me happy, Dad. I was making fun of you and mom early today when I showed my housemates how you and mom snore, hahahahaha, ohhhh the little joys in life. I'm heading out here real quick but please always remember how much I love and respect you both and how grateful I am for who you are and for what you help me become each day. Stay busy, but not too busy, leave something for me to fix and clean for when I get back. I love you all so much! Dad- thanks for taking time to talk to me tonight! You are the best! Sweet dreams! <br />
<br />
Love,<br />
Sister Ralph</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-46042465513368846392014-05-27T09:57:00.000-07:002014-05-27T10:05:49.461-07:0025 May 2014<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdNesGTewq4MQhfKs5sbnpv4O-USqvU83gbVjRxKumNoCCw4upa_a-En9M9Ej-99SkyytEBvLpxIPWydrZI3Yorlm8ZI9tQaeIAy4atFIhLMRe-hxh-U-KTgQEu6Wvqb0wL3VhyphenhyphenRLWRpYv/s1600/25May2014.7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdNesGTewq4MQhfKs5sbnpv4O-USqvU83gbVjRxKumNoCCw4upa_a-En9M9Ej-99SkyytEBvLpxIPWydrZI3Yorlm8ZI9tQaeIAy4atFIhLMRe-hxh-U-KTgQEu6Wvqb0wL3VhyphenhyphenRLWRpYv/s1600/25May2014.7.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-size: 9pt;">Just a pretty
scene I thought I would share. Since my mom is not here to talk to me (= haha
Love you mom<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Ok so here we go. Let's see... this week...
well we talked to lots of Americans. One came up to me in the store from the
back and scared me to death... can I just say that.... You don't start talking
to people in YOUR language in a foreign land from their BACK! Grabe! I
seriously jumped like 3 feet in the air. My companion laughed so hard at me.
Another American we met as we were looking for less-actives in our area. This
one was in a wheel chair and I'm not sure but I think he has elephantitis on
his nose. I'm not saying that to joke or anything. He really did. But he had
never seen Sister missionaries in these parts... only Elders. He told us that
he was NOT catholic but that he was Christian. I said awesome! We are too!. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMBcU5q7THHFpSrb_2B7O07SiihWicwWrTm8oAf4F1huAXrLUYfCYY9wcVCP-_reNuYKvFLehOCzwKKjTJXp12RXg6KX7DHlwHi15JtJsrfBqhdZF_HTg5xPGu9_tMl_dIgY2okH9zuPO4/s1600/25May2014.2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMBcU5q7THHFpSrb_2B7O07SiihWicwWrTm8oAf4F1huAXrLUYfCYY9wcVCP-_reNuYKvFLehOCzwKKjTJXp12RXg6KX7DHlwHi15JtJsrfBqhdZF_HTg5xPGu9_tMl_dIgY2okH9zuPO4/s1600/25May2014.2.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;">This is what a LOT of the catholic kids wear when
they go to church. <br />Not really sure why still. But they are cute (=</span></td></tr>
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</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN">His
immediate response with "No you are not" set the tone for the rest of
the conversation. I just kept quiet but apparently my sass wore off on my
companion as she asked him to READ our name tags with Christ's name tag. He
went on to yet again explain our religion to us and how Joseph and Brigham are
drunken thieves.... blah blah.. you know that story. My companion was
fuming, hahahaha. I was laughing inside because normally that was me but this
time... here this old, wheel-chaired man is not only here trying to tell us our
religion is wrong but also trying to convince us that he has a great life here
in the Philippines rather than in America. Oh please man.... look at your
situation. I could not help but feel bad for him and my wrath would be put to
better use elsewhere (joke). So I gave my companion the "it's ok"
look and I just bore a simple testimony about the Book of Mormon and Joseph
Smith and invited him to do what we have done and ask God for himself. The
conversation ended smoothly and I was grateful for the spirit that I knew was
with us. Missionary work is full of surprises and quite fun (=<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLwk9ANvPClkR46OdBZgdF7eQroE3DYwRnwl5FINU0oX8QZ5z4zlnATdIhTbe7KZ4k1aAAtMG-sVojXDvDSPfuI0qddaY5YrY1TlGkYg9qkYx6MyRHHNCtsuDcwU8lB4hQBaVadlh2NXiL/s1600/25May2014.5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLwk9ANvPClkR46OdBZgdF7eQroE3DYwRnwl5FINU0oX8QZ5z4zlnATdIhTbe7KZ4k1aAAtMG-sVojXDvDSPfuI0qddaY5YrY1TlGkYg9qkYx6MyRHHNCtsuDcwU8lB4hQBaVadlh2NXiL/s1600/25May2014.5.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-size: 9pt;">Me and my companion earlier today at this fancy farm
place we went to. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-size: 9pt;">I love my companion and I'm so happy we are still together. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN" style="font-size: 9pt;">She is my mom and my baby, haha.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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As you all can see my companion is quite
gorgeous and so we have a little trouble yet again with the fellows. We were
walking down this big hill-neighborhood one day and a tricycle drives up right
next to us and offers us a ride. We said "no thanks",
"free" he says. We don't need a ride, thank you, Brother.
"Please sisters, I will come to church if you ride..."<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN">Uhhh... Yucks! this whole time he is driving
along side us and so I get behind his tricycle and start pushing it to move
along. Go!! I pushed him and then we stopped so that he would finally
leave us alone. But then he stopped too and waited and pleaded. Gross! This man
... basta..... I gave him a quick little piece of my mind and then he left (= I
love being me (=<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHN4VPMZwruY3KoFNqsUpVFJ0I54-A6n7HLF7lrvYBcVbflIbplG2nXbMyOOC2Bqk6Jq4bAbd3tgvM1xsK_gYbx8TGxAYcmo6TBT5tTVnQzG_P9UJASD4h7MafX2kzXyNbYKYS3G0YVNOW/s1600/25May2014.1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHN4VPMZwruY3KoFNqsUpVFJ0I54-A6n7HLF7lrvYBcVbflIbplG2nXbMyOOC2Bqk6Jq4bAbd3tgvM1xsK_gYbx8TGxAYcmo6TBT5tTVnQzG_P9UJASD4h7MafX2kzXyNbYKYS3G0YVNOW/s1600/25May2014.1.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-size: 9pt;">This is the
ocean view from our Branch Mission Leader's house. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</tbody></table>
We shared with the Ruiz family this week-
just a sister and her kids. None of her kids are baptized but she and her
husband were baptized many years ago. The sister, last time we taught, told us
that she had some sort of ulcer and could not go to church. This time she told
us boldly that the church was too cold because of the A.C. (you would be
surprised how many people complain about the church being too cold from the
A.C- funny huh?) So obviously we are not fooled by the backdrop of her
concerns. We taught a powerful lesson. It was the first time in a while that I
really felt the spirit work through us. I knew each of them could feel the
spirit and there was no denying it. Those moments make every rejection, every
hard moment worth it- when you know you are giving the same lesson Christ would
give if He were here. We taught about the restoration and bore testimony of the
blessings that we have experienced through living the gospel. It was obvious
that sister was having a battle with the spirit when she finally brought up the
fact that members are not very good people at the church. AHHH!! yet again...
offended. Can I just tell you... the two biggest reasons why people here stop
coming to church... offended and "busy." Satan... he is tricky. Funny
he uses the SAME reasons and tools on just about everyone and it still
continues to work. I wish I had a real success story for you that they came to
church and repented, but pride takes time to conquer. But we are happy to know
that the spirit was guiding the lesson and she has been invited yet again to
come back and partake of the Love and blessings of the Gospel, line upon line.
Real missionary work (=<br />
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<span lang="EN" style="font-size: 9pt;">This is our
first baptism here in Sogod. Sister Melagros. She is super sweet and loves to
talk. She really knows that the Book of Mormon is true and that Joseph Smith is
a prophet of God, She has great faith and we love her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Like you saw in the picture we had a baptism
of Sister Melagros Bation! She is a doll and loves the gospel. We are excited
for her to partake of the blessings of the spirit over time. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-size: 9pt;">A little boy
in our branch caught these two little birds </span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-size: 9pt;">and let us play with them, haha. It's
so tiny. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">So I was reading this talk
that talked about one of the apostles who talked about how sins do not simply
go away with time and that eventually they will have to be faced here or in the
next life soo. Sorry that was random but
this apostle was in his 40's or 50's when he realized that there was something
in his childhood he had not been honest with his brother with when they were
way young. And he asked forgiveness. I don't think I am an exception....<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Ok! so Sister Melagros she is sister-in-law
with Sister Bation a member. And Sister M is living with them at this time so
we always teach at their house. They have three daughters and the oldest two
married Americans who served here (weird huh?) and the third is still in school
now but there are lots of immodest (not like BAD, but short skirts etc.)
modeling pictures of her in the house. We were all talking after a lesson one
time and Sister Bation was very adamant about how her youngest daughter was not
allowed to date. I was rather shocked due to the fact that they would allow her
to wear such clothing and I gave up my self control for a brief moment and let
my mouth open and kind of just told her that if her daughter wants to marry a
good husband than she better start dressing modest. Yea... we left and I did
not feel super good about what I said, but I justified myself saying that it
was true and someone needed to say it. Well that was Saturday morning and I did
not give much thought to it after that. Sunday comes around and here we have RS
first, Sunday school, then Sacrament. In R.S. Sister Bation is the teacher and
the topic is on kindness. The spirit chastised me Hard. I felt terrible. I had
this huge pride internal battle with myself in justifying and not needing to
apologize. But then in the back of my mind, I knew I had to. I knew that the
spirit was the one (just like in PMG it talks about how the spirit occupies the
mind and presses on the feelings) I could not get what I did out of my head. I
could not move on. I felt heavy-hearted, ugly and disappointed. I knew the
spirit was working on me. I thought and thought about how I would bring it up
to Sister Bastion and what I would say. I sat in Sunday school just wracked. I
experienced what it talks about in the scriptures and in general conference
talks about how sin really does CHAIN us down. It burdens us. It was almost
this physical weight and I had to get rid of it. I wanted to talk to her right
before Sacrament meeting but circumstances did not allow because we were
randomly told that the missionaries were singing the rest hymn. So I cried
through sacrament, got up and sang "Lead Kindly Light" and sat down
still feeling the burden, but at this time I knew that nothing would stop me
from asking her forgiveness and I knew that once I did the spirit would return.
That freedom and peace would come back. Right after Sacrament meeting I got up
and went straight to her and asked her forgiveness and hugged her. The spirit
did come right back and I never want to feel like that again. I am so grateful
for the spirit that not only guides but chastises and drives us to repent, to
change. I was praying for opportunities to use and become more aware of the
atonement in my life and my prayer was answered. I know the atonement of Jesus
Christ is real, and even missionaries need not only the enabling but the
redeeming power every single day. I love being a missionary and enjoying the
companionship of the Holy Ghost. ..... mom its up to you whether to put that on
the blog but I thought I would at least share with you. Thank you for loving me
despite my countless faults and weaknesses. I love you mom. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Please be safe!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"> </span>Love Sister
Ralph</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This picture is my companion during and after our companionship prayer, haha.<br />I tried to wake her up, I even shook her...useless. hahaha got to love her.</span></td></tr>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-size: small;">It took me a while to hold the rooster. It sounds dumb
but after you have seen those puppies FIGHT! Cockfighting... I had good reason
to be scared of it. So thankfully Elder Lum is patient with me. Elder Lowe got
a video of me being all pathetic that I am exciting to see at some far distant
point in the future</span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-size: small;">It took me a
while but SUCCESS!! I held the rooster ... </span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-size: small;">just quick enough for My companion
to snap the pix, as you can tell.... </span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-size: small;">I was not exactly enjoying myself hahahaha
But I DID IT (=</span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-size: small;">This is Elder Lum, my zone leader. He has a talent with
rabbits other than those shown here, haha. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-size: small;">Apparently he can lay them down and
make them knock out dead asleep. Crazy random talents haha.</span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="font-size: small;">The last pix is a monkey. We became friends real quick. I
would throw cucumbers up at him and he would catch them and chew them like
there was no tomorrow. Love the Philippines.</span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-54020415132060233812014-05-18T22:00:00.000-07:002014-05-18T22:19:41.434-07:0018 May 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Wow Mom, you are on top of things. You are the best! Thank you for the email and update! I'm excited to be home so I CAN HELP you with all the chores around the house (I'm such a weird child to look forward to something like that).<br />
I very much appreciate you talking to Sister Carlson about me getting to work there. Anything at this point would be wonderful, but I realize I will need a job when I get home! Ahh! Stress. No, just kidding I'm not stressed, everything will work out. <br />
Oh Mom, Before I forget, I think we are going on a hike next week, so do not wait for me. I am not sure what time I will get on line. But do not forget that I love you. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is us celebrating being together still with Smores in the Apartment. <br />We had to make some minor adjustments but we were happy with it(=</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This one is a close up of me enjoying thoroughly my smore (=</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This one is me having a BUKO shake- its from coconuts and you CAN NOT get this in america from my understanding (which... you know isnt always absolute haha). But its pretty good, </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">I would recommend trying it. </span></td></tr>
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So this week has been .... not sure if I quite have a word for it- different but good.<br />
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This last Monday was amazing because I got to talk to my family. That night my companion was not feeling good at all and so I had some personal time. ... I took this time to reflect on my life and where I was at and where I wanted to be and what was most important to me, what I wanted in this life and the next, what I knew to be true. I am not sure why but for some reason I just felt this heaviness on my heart. I don't know if it was because we are opening an area and so the adjustment stage is a little slow and rough... its my fourth time opening an area though so you would think I would be champ at this point.... haha, nope. Basta....Even though I did not know what it was, I DID know that I needed divine help. I was upset with myself and my weaknesses. The things as a missionary I SHOULD be doing, but was lacking os struggling in. I got on my knees and POURED my whole heart and soul out. I can not tell you how much joy came to my heart from the simple words that came to my mind (more a reminder from my patriarchal blessing) "God knows your heart and your weaknesses". Those words filled my soul with a love that is so completely indescribable. In the Book of Mormon when the prophets (Alma) talks about their sorrow being swallowed up in Christ... that is exactly how I felt. I felt safe and loved. I Know with out a doubt that my Heavenly Father hears my prayers, He knows my heart and He is patient with me. How I love Him!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf7HC_-i9nrtr8_vjmeajIbCjHXXpH_dbwmoGH9pnksNF1e-a5nRwkvXUctxyMxRcR9kj6jD3T9BeSCG_D79uXGb-wgMKEshbuhQD6vmYgaueQIFa603N0AZzeZtfAfDjr-fWYVzJZrmv-/s1600/18May2014.10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf7HC_-i9nrtr8_vjmeajIbCjHXXpH_dbwmoGH9pnksNF1e-a5nRwkvXUctxyMxRcR9kj6jD3T9BeSCG_D79uXGb-wgMKEshbuhQD6vmYgaueQIFa603N0AZzeZtfAfDjr-fWYVzJZrmv-/s1600/18May2014.10.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is a bread shop. They make bread in shapes of different animals. <br />Pigs, turtles, you name it, haha, neat-O.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZcmRr-PPDhsbNd1VUmAtSu7a-6I-XGxXYeAkLEa00qsym7wJ2HuOkP3E6y3x8LqZVBdY9T73JYGm6irpQJsVNWYUqNEFWeM6QnrO11EXk_CWnLqQj2GZXZ7J4LlWF3bBBCJmXQMT_gfxj/s1600/18May2014.8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZcmRr-PPDhsbNd1VUmAtSu7a-6I-XGxXYeAkLEa00qsym7wJ2HuOkP3E6y3x8LqZVBdY9T73JYGm6irpQJsVNWYUqNEFWeM6QnrO11EXk_CWnLqQj2GZXZ7J4LlWF3bBBCJmXQMT_gfxj/s1600/18May2014.8.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">These are the only cute and HAIR filled puppies I have seen in the Philippines <br />-- Here in Sogod (= </span><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">The dad is a lab. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmFvux2ttTbkgqiAYfl48QFEMMNR0_2SSyUNax21LZ_hS1Meo5dNiCzEcnAJjUdoxPgviy2yWfyQ4ZVVpGfMFrBoVz0qEZ1MJrdTjL4woKO1nK112X9DiqbZ_tS4NZAAhIqxGJV2Ewgvit/s1600/18May2014.9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmFvux2ttTbkgqiAYfl48QFEMMNR0_2SSyUNax21LZ_hS1Meo5dNiCzEcnAJjUdoxPgviy2yWfyQ4ZVVpGfMFrBoVz0qEZ1MJrdTjL4woKO1nK112X9DiqbZ_tS4NZAAhIqxGJV2Ewgvit/s1600/18May2014.9.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">More puppies hahahahah THEY ARE SOO CUTE! <br />and I missed the ones at my own house soooo.... God is very kind</span></td></tr>
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We have a less active family that we have been teaching and her son's name is JesNeph haha Combo of Jesus and Nephi. She said she wants him to remember the be righteous always because of his name. She is a strong woman and she is a good example to me of true faith. Her kids make me laugh too (=<br />
People in the Philippines are SIMPLE minded people. She is trying. I just thought the name thing was funny.. so I shared. She came to church (=</div>
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He is 4 but he is special so he looks like he is 2 and his eyes are .... it looks like he has giant white cataracts<br />
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Ok, this week I got to become a certified teacher. Our sister leaders come over and they have this big certification process that no one likes to do haha, but it's what our president asked us to do... so we obey! And I passed woot, woot. Sister Hogge is the one to pass me and I love her so much. We learned a lot from each other and I appreciate her so much!<br />
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Sister Bray and I had a neat experience this last Friday. (The background to this story is that Sister Ralph has been feeling guilty for not talking to as many people as she should or could have since being here in Sogod.) Sooo...Because we are opening an area and the members are busy this week things have been going slow but we still are driven to do all we can. We have a curfew at 7PM though for sisters because there have been problems in the past etc... etc... etc. and this night we had gone everywhere we had planned and (it gets dark at 6pm every night) we wanted to keep working but we did not know what to do and felt stupid with only 20 minutes left. We looked at each other on the side of the road and Sister Bray (who I love to death) said "Lets pray." She said a prayer that was sincere and simple. We told Heavenly Father that we did NOT want to go home, we wanted to work, but were unsure what to do, we asked for guidance and faith to move forward. After the prayer, Sister Bray in all her cuteness said "where is the north star?" hahaha -She, knowing that I love the stars. I pointed it out and she said great, let's go that way. So we went...<br />
We walked for less than a minute and these two girls were walking the opposite direction- obviously in the middle of an intense conversation. But I looked at them and I let them pass. ...... ..... I did not SAY ANYTHING!! I was sooo mad at myself! What am I doing? What did we just pray for?? Who are we? Why am I asking for help if I am not willing to do anything about it! I tell people every day that they have to have the faith in order to make their prayers become a reality and what the heck am I doing. Gosh! Sister Ralph! You are such a hypocrite! I was done! That is not true repentance, Sister Ralph! Make it happen! The two sisters were already gone, but I saw another girl out of the corner of my eye and despite how incredibly awkward or weird I was approaching this girl, I was going to open my mouth! She was willing to listen and we set a return appt., We left and walked ten feet and I saw another group of girls... HERE WE GO SIS Bray! Two return appts -BOOM! I have a testimony that WE CHOOSE to make our prayers become a reality. God blesses and guides us and answers our prayers depending on our willingness to change, to act and to follow. How I love prayer. How I l appreciate how Patient my Father in Heaven is with me as things slowly... ever so slowly click (=</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This picture is of a fruit. It's called jackfruit and THIS <br />my Dear Brothers and Sisters is Juicy Fruit GUM! <br />I tasted it and my mind was BLOWN! I was eating Juicy fruit gum....<br /> but it was fruit. I had to convince myself that it was actually fruit <br />that was good for me and not just sugar <br />ruining my teeth hahah CRAZZY!! Love the Philippines!</span></td></tr>
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We were invited to a dinner (all 6 of us missionaries) one night this week and I enjoyed talking with the family for a bit. I don't know what it is about their little boy- I think he is almost 4 years old, but he just loves me... in this weird way. He always finds me at church or wherever and just stares at me. And then waits for my attention. hahaha I ate quickly and we played airplanes on the ground while the more MATURE kids had adult talk at the table..... I was where I belong I feel, hahaha.<br />
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I really do love being a missionary. I know it is way hard. I hate that I can't talk to you whenever I want, I can't get a hug or listen to you scream my name on the phone, I don't really know what's going on in the lives of my siblings, my grandparents, my parents and the people I love, I'm missing my family grow up and become closer. But I am so so happy to be here. I'm so Happy and humbled that My Savior trusts me enough to be here and represent Him. I love the Book of Mormon so much. It truly has become my anchor for my testimony. I know this is the work of God on the earth today and even though I have absolutely NO idea HOW it's possible...I just know that it is. And that's enough for me. Let's endure to the End together. Finish Strong together! We are an eternal Family because of Jesus Christ.<br />
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I love you all!<br />
Sister Ralph
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2643327449340922022.post-91953851944646611762014-05-12T15:25:00.000-07:002014-05-12T15:25:15.705-07:0011 May 2014 -- Mother's Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;">So I was transferred. I left the awesome zone of Borongan and am now in Sogod. We are my companion are still companions and are sooo happy about that! We went from Waray H to Cebuano J and its been an adventure. Its beautiful here, we are excited for whatever adventures come our way. </span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMOG66ZH0IkMaiXDLbOSLmD0OZi4K3BMffI8UDDJklAxutpRhrJferHWdn-jKsun8bjgPjP47VArJnXDWFX_QKocg8W83LqQga8IxTTv9FhpR-6FMfnB5_iuEBFi5CvXHucTE4-poIv13r/s1600/11May2014.4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMOG66ZH0IkMaiXDLbOSLmD0OZi4K3BMffI8UDDJklAxutpRhrJferHWdn-jKsun8bjgPjP47VArJnXDWFX_QKocg8W83LqQga8IxTTv9FhpR-6FMfnB5_iuEBFi5CvXHucTE4-poIv13r/s1600/11May2014.4.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This picture is Elder Burton, Elder Murdock and Elder Stead in the room that we had already taken out most of the junk, but we found..... THE RAT!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7naucjh51Q98TkHe48oCXMvPBF0eukP64k6hCBOcboWPfv0TX6653sn1-c5x3B2iRcIfxAMXRWI-x9tzYHif9uPxFuCjyvCzzSm9bVIy7O0SHV1sfhrN0Fw_ELYQu76p0IJDIakVNV_te/s1600/11May2014.5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7naucjh51Q98TkHe48oCXMvPBF0eukP64k6hCBOcboWPfv0TX6653sn1-c5x3B2iRcIfxAMXRWI-x9tzYHif9uPxFuCjyvCzzSm9bVIy7O0SHV1sfhrN0Fw_ELYQu76p0IJDIakVNV_te/s1600/11May2014.5.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">The second picture is when the rat came out of the room and hid in this little closest- please take note to the stance of Elder Burton- BAHAHAHAH!!!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is Sister Maricel and her cute kids. We were only able to teach her a few times but I wish you all could have seen the way she read the Book of Mormon Introduction and testimonies for the first time. She read with her whole soul and when she didn't understand, she went back, she questioned, she asked and she learned. Ah! I love her so much, I learned so much from her and I know her time will come. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj013ywoSSvV2jajX0vj-YzIZUHlzc-xZ7hQxFDMWHIx5sYafOqLc2KHAWmI0yvMCu4jJEFfZbl7QBKijb3h6-T662HoJr5GekMiDoRKS2CpA4ccv_wDME9ZJDKiNYeYEPXBPpEx8CbKKrg/s1600/11May2014.3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj013ywoSSvV2jajX0vj-YzIZUHlzc-xZ7hQxFDMWHIx5sYafOqLc2KHAWmI0yvMCu4jJEFfZbl7QBKijb3h6-T662HoJr5GekMiDoRKS2CpA4ccv_wDME9ZJDKiNYeYEPXBPpEx8CbKKrg/s1600/11May2014.3.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is the Calos family. It was rough saying goodbye. They are an INCREDIBLE family. Every time we taught them there was just this incredible peace that I have not consistently felt anywhere else. Leny has a baptismal date for May 24th and her Mom is now coming to church with her and Sister Bernadeth! How I </span><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">and will miss them! </span><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">love </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This is the Ducena family. These people make me soooo happy! I feel so loved when I am with them. They gave me an opportunity to really see how the Gospel can change people and how it really should be central to our lives. They were so willing to do anything and </span><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">everything to follow our Savior. I love and miss them sooo much! sorry for the bad picture but we all were teary messes. </span> </td></tr>
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Sorry I can't attach any more pictures because the computer is being slow.<br /> But I LOVE MY FAMILY! You ALL are the most incredible beautiful people in the world. I love the way we are. I love that we are together forever! Just like what President Eyring said-- that is where my TRUE happiness comes from. <br /> I want to wish all the Mothers in My Life a HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!!! Thank you for the examples you are to me! I hope you all know how loved and appreciated you are. </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0