February 10, 2014

Dear Amigos and Familia,

     I officially have a new companion! My cute new trainee is Hermana Laycock! The reason why I decided to put amigos and familia is because she's a spanish speaking sister! Man I'm witty... jk haha She  has a huge personality. I always thought I had a big personality, but compared to my past two sisters, I'm pretty laid back haha. Who would have thought! She just got back from the CCM (the Mexico MTC) after 6 weeks of being there. She came up to me during transfers and was like 'I'm your new companion'. I think I might have squeaked/screamed a little.. Sister Laycock is from Lehi, Utah and graduated with her associates right out of high school. Any one that knows me, knows I had that opportunity, but I didn't want to take winter and summer courses haha. She's super dilligent. She even passed off lesson 1 today! She's a rock star.  However, when she arrived here in Missouri there was about 5 inches of snow on the ground. You should have seen her shoes! They were cute oxford looking shoes with HOLES in them!!! I was like, girl, we need to go get you some boots and leggings. So we proceeded to go to the best high-end store/only store in town. Walmart.. Anyway, we got that squared off and now she's very warm! We are doing great. We are having fun working together and the ward is so welcoming so that's great!

     This week was another interesting week. It was filled with Sister Call packing, freaking out a little, transfers, a few more 'grounded' days because of the snow, and now working with Sister Laycock. It was a little wierd, but I'm definitely excited for the work to get back to normal. Do you think my friends in Nevada would care if I picked up the snow here in Clinton and dropped it over to you? Normally I'm all for snow, but this stuff is hindering my missionary work! haha 

      Earlier last week before Sister Call left, we taught Kye. We had the impression to teach her about temples this week and you could tell that it was different for her, but the Spirit was really working on her. As we taught, Chastity got brought up. Without being over bearing we discussed it with her and Sister Quinnlley. I won't give you all the details obviously, but I could tell that her old opinion on the commandment was changing... Her heart was literally being softened. We are soooo excited for her. She also went to church this Sunday at the Singles ward in Warrensburg! We were unable to go with, but Sister Quinn said it went great. We're calling Kye today about it. We'll keep you updated.

     As for Brother Schweitzer, he also went to church this past Sunday! He wore khakis with a nice suit coat and some bright white tennis shoes. It was so sweet! We have been teaching him the commandments and he has been working so hard to be prepared. His health always gets in the way of our appointments, but I know that he will be prepared if the Lord wills it! We're so excited!

      Honestly the rest of the days are a blur because of the snow! I just want you guys to know how grateful I am to be out here in Missouri and especially in Clinton with Sister Laycock. I know there are no coincidences in missionary work! I love to be out in my sorrel snow boots knocking on doors and teaching our investigators about our Savior and His Atonement. No one shares a sweeter message. I love My Savior and my Father in Heaven. I have a testimony that agency is one of the greatest gifts our Father has given us. I know that having that ability to choose between good and evil or right or wrong, has given me the assurity of where I want to go, what I want to do, and who I want to be. Because I know that as I choose my Savior over the silly things of the world, I can have that confidence that I can undergo any trial and overcome it and feel true peace and joy. There isn't a better feeling.. Have a great week everyone. Love you lots!!

Love,

Sister Penman