May 18: Weeks and Stuff

It has been a very weirdly no time week!  

Tuesday I had exchanges with the STL's in their area.  ROAD TRIP!  Jokes, it is like 30 minutes away, and we only stay together for 24 hours.... but it was a blast!  I experienced my first funeral here in the Philippines, and me and my companion for the day and I ate a whole bag of Doritos.... We tried to limit ourselves, but what can we say?  We love the taste of America.  Ha!  

Wednesday we had our interviews with President.  It was good, we were able to discuss the new way of planning.  We had a goal to get 100 baptisms in May, It was such a wonderful goal.  so hopefully we can still make it.  I am just punching myself for not being able to contribute.  We have been struggling to find what we call 'Golden investigators' but have been blessed to be working so much with our less actives, and really seeing a change.

Friday was our half-day mission.  It is so wonderful.  It is a time for members to go to Less Active and investigators houses without us.  and our members are so dedicated!  They take it so seriously, and really do sacrifice SO much time to helping us.  They build friendships with the people, and since of course, you want to hang out with friends, the people come to church!  We had a lesson with one of our Less actives that is a 23 year old man.  he is so smart, and so very good with the gospel.  We went in wanting to teach prayer, but after talking for a little bit we decided to share the baptismal covenant scripture about 'mourning with those that mourn' It was such a powerful lesson.  He really understands the importance of learning, and teaching in the church.  That Sunday him and his friend, who is also less active, CAME TO CHURCH! It is amazing how sometimes, people, they just need a little push!  I am telling you all.  He could very well be a great leader of this Church.  After the half-day mission we had a branch home evening.  and although we would have liked a bigger turn-out, we were happy for the ones who were there!  We played some games, shared some laughs, ate so much food!  maganda yen!  

Saturday was MARK'S BIRTHDAY!!!! HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY KID!  It was also a Baptism, so what a happy, happy day indeed!  It was the baptism of one of our recent converts mom.  The mom wasn't into the lessons while her daughter was taking them, but after she was baptized, she started listening.  People can change.  It is so important not to give up on anyone.  keep praying for them.  "there can be miracles, when you believe"

Sunday was a very sad day for us in Agoo 1.  The branch was re aligned, and we lost a brgy. (a section of land) in our area. Meaning we had to say goodbye to quite a few of our Less actives, and strong members. :(  We also lost the Balloran/Fangoli family :'( It really was so hard to say goodbye.  But I know that it is a good thing.  maybe through this we will be able to unite the branches.  We went and said goodbye.  They even fed us a last supper of so much delicious food. eggplant, sardines, and a dish with jackfruit.  I don't know the names.  Just that is was amazing, and It made leaving even harder. 

My housemate Sister Taliviao...i think that's right.... Is finished with her mission, and so after dropping her off at the bus stop, as she goes to San Fernando, Baguio,  Manilla, then Australia. Farewell sister! 

 we are now in the threesome.  It is good.  I feel like a giant compared to them (they are both Filipino), and am always lost before lessons when they are joking and such.  ha.... one day I'll know Tagalog... right?  hahahaha.  

Hope you have a great next week. loves and loves

until next week

-sister Nott  

May 5: Mother's day: Mass Masaya.

First.  Hailee Rupp!!!!!  is ENGAGED!!! congrats to her!!!! oh goodness, mahal kita sister!!!! 

We just finished up week four of this transfer.  I don't believe it.  I feel like me and sister Lacdo-o just became companions two weeks ago. It has really been just a magundang transfer.  We have had nothing to do but work.  We have had plenty of opportunities to teach, and serve, and bond with our members and less actives!  And this week. WE SAW THE FRUITS OF OUR LABORS!!!!  

We were so blessed to be able to attend the 167th relief society activity on Saturday.  The whole week we were reminding/inviting people left and right "come to the RS activity"  " You know, our church is having an activity tomorrow!"  "You miss all your friends from church?  Well they are all going to be at this RS activity tomorrow, you should come.  It will be a party-party!"

We even invited a lady on our first approach while trying to contact a potential investigator.  She is so hilarious.  She goes "You are just going to invite me to church right away.  I am not going until you convince me first."  HAHA so we said, well how about we come try to do that on thursday.  And she said "okay, you can do that.  Just DON'T come at this time.  It's already night, and I want to go to sleep."  Ha, so we haven't gone to teach yet.  But you better believe I am way excited.  I really thought that I would like to have investigators that are easy.  That don't ask questions, but just go with the flow.  But truth is.  I don't.  I found out I like a good challenge. 

anyway, back to the activity.  We walked in and saw our less active, and our investigator waiting there!  We were so ecstatic, an excitement that grew when my dear sweet Erlinda Estwesta came in!!  What added more to that thrill is to see a member that i didn't even know was friends with her run to her, gave her a giant hug and say "Erlinda! Erlinda!  I have missed you so much!!!!"  Wow, can you say rad fellowshipper!  The activity went great, and as mama Gretch says. "A good time was had by all!"

The next day was Sunday.  And my mouth almost fell to the floor to see ( as sister Lacdo-o calls them)  our 'three kings!)  They are 3 very less active PRIESTHOOD HOLDERS. Which the Branch is in desperate need of.  They all live fairly close to each other, and the oldest has just encouraged the snot out of the other two.  They came, they enjoyed, and they committed to come next week again.  even though they are old.  They really do make a room more lively!  We also had a whole less active family come for all three hours, and our two precious investigators.  It was a lovely meeting.  President Balleados came and gave a tear jerking story about the Hero of the Philippines, Apolinario Mabini.  About the sacrifice of his mother.  Mothers really do sacrifice EVERYTHING for their children, they are the most unselfish, and giving creatures alive.  The spirit was so strong, and I was able to get pumped to talk to my own sainted mother this morning!  

Mom, Family!!!  I am so happy for the opportunity I had to talk to you.  Even though a short time, it was plenty of time to carry my happiness to Christmas!  Thank you for your love, support, and constant communication with me!  Please forgive me for my shortcomings in writing back.  And know that I love you.  And that this work it so great.  It is SO great.  Don't take the Gospel for granted.  Don't get relaxed with your scripture studies, and ALWAYS APPRECIATE, AND TAKE TIME WITH YOUR FAMILIES!  

I love you all very much! 

Mahal ko kayo Sobra.

until next time!

hanggang sa susunod!

take care! 

Ingat

-Sister Nott

March 4: sorry.

Friends, Family.

Sorry that this is my email.... but It is one of those weeks where I don't know what to write.... We have had the most amazing lightning storms that light up the whole sky, and I saw my first accident here, which is surprising because the traffic here is always something from the movies.  HA, seriously, everyone drives here like they are in a high speed chase!  But the accident wasn't bad, no one got seriously injured.  

The Meana baptism will be May 17, Hopefully, definitely been a struggle of a week.  But there is this cheesy EFY song that says "I know that it won't be easy, but it's making me strong so give me, mountains to climb."  It's true.  You don't remember the bad times after the good ones!  

We have had less actives flying to us.  For real they all say "Oh I was baptized as a Mormon one time" or "oh ya, I used to be Mormon."  Ha, it is sad how easy people slip into inactivity. So my advice for the week. GO TO CHURCH EVERY SUNDAY!  READ THE BOOK OF MORMON EVERYDAY! AND SERVE IN THE CHURCH!  

I wish you all you Mother's a happy happy day, and I am sending my love to you, from the Philippines!  You are all such amazing examples to me, keep up the good work!  

Love you all!

until next week

-sister Nott 

April 27: Storms, Surprises, Stealing, and Scary Monsters.

To start off.  Parents, how was you anniversary?  Hope it was the best! I love you both very much!!!
 It was a whirlwind week.  Filled with fun times. 

Monday: we had FHE at a members house where they made like 8 different ulam (dishes) all of them seemed to be better than the one before.  I have learned so much about Fillipino food from Sister Lacdo-o.  Like how to order fish at the market, how they can scale, gut, and dice a fish in a matter of seconds.  She has also taught me how to make pakswe, yema, manudo, chicken adobo, and Filipino spaghetti with all the crazy add inns. 

Tues:  We were in a tri-sum because our house mate is going home soon so went to Manilla for her exiting visa. BY HERSELF!  So it was just a day of teaching, but nothing to crazy.

Wed:  I woke up with an awful AWFUL stomach cramps, and my companion had a killer headache.  We aren't sure if it was something we ate, or didn't eat.  but We thought it wise to take a sick day.  We had an apt. with a member at 5 so we went out just for an hour.  In that hour I was buying a cupcake for a members birthday, and while it was in front of my face, my wallet was stolen.  no jokes.  But this is the miracle.  The morning of, I took out all the money I had and put it in my apt.  The only thing that punk got was two 5 peso coins, and my support card.  The card was cancelled immediately, and so we see...  the good always wins.  

Thurs: was a Thursday....

Friday:We went out to work in the heat of the day.  A day so hot I thought that my brain would melt, and start dripping out of my ears.  But in a blink of an eye, honest.  It was from heat to pouring rain!  I have been waiting since I opened my call for a good Rain storm, It was worth the wait!  Good thing rainy season is just around the corner!  *heel click* But on the semi-negative, but also kind of positive.  The rain some how brought about maraming animals into our apt.  We had 1 cockroach, 2 centipedes, and my companion caught a frog that was hanging out in our sing.  How they all got there.  I will never know.  But tell Merrill I took pictures of all of them for him!  

Sat: Saturday was the perfect 20th birthday!  It started out with National Day of Service, so some of the branch got together and we cleaned a Brgy.  Everyone was so sweet, wishing me a happy birthday.  We even had sister Evangaline Meana (the daughter of Brother Meana) come.  I think that it was just what she needed to feel a part of this branch.  Now she has come to 3 full hours of church, and participating in all of our lessons!  We came back after.  Took a shower, did some studies, then got about 7 punts.  but that is OKAY!  Because my night, was made.  Thank you to my family here in The Philippines!!!  They invited us over for dinner.  When I walked into the door they had "happy birthday sister Nott" cut out on the wall with little paper balloons, and cake!  I was so so so so happy.  It made me tear up thinking that they spent so much time and effort into making my day so special!  We had a lesson given by the other sisters, and then they turned over the closing remarks to sister Kaimi.  That doll, she opened her computer.  and there it was.  a Happy Birthday message of Mary and Seth.  The "tearing up"  went to full on crying.  I was so touched that Kaimi and Mary would work together to do that!  It was perfect!  Than, to top it all off.  I got to eat delicious food, including EGG PIE!!!!!  Later that night.  My housemates surprised me again by buying me cake, and singing to me!  I truly am so blessed.  And so Happy!    To my Filipino Family, and my Family at home.  THANK YOU FOR MAKING MY BIRTHDAY SO SPECIAL!  

Sunday:  We had a LA come that hasn't been to church for ages.  And the Meana family!  

This mission is good. This life is great!  

until next week

-Sister Nott

April 20

It really has been such a fast week, so i apologize for this boring letter. But before I begin.  

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY MOM AND DAD!!!!!  What is it 32 years?  congrats you cute people!

Also, I haven't read the emails yet, but thank you advance for all of the Birthday emails!!  You are all too sweet.  Crazy that I am finally done being a teenager.  It's about time.... I am not sure what I will do for my birthday.  Just the usual i guess, but there will be a little egg pie in the mix. of course.  Also, for a birthday gift parents, I am using my banking card to buy some things I need from the LDS store.  Sorry dolls...

This week, like I said just happened crazy fast.  It was like April just started.... and then I blinked....and now it's ending!  We were blessed with like no punts, and plenty of good lessons... until Black Friday... DUN DUN DUN.  I don't know if I have been ignorant about what goes on during Black Friday for i have lived in Utah, or if the Philippines is way crazier.  Either way, we had a half-day mission, which because of scheduling issues ended up just being Me, Sister Lacdo-o, and dear sister Kaimi in our area.  So just a regular day.  But I am always greatful for the members who work so hard to help their brand out.  we were supposed to have a Branch Home Evening that same night, but it was cancelled.  Which was for the best.  The traffic here was insane.   

So Black Friday is a Catholic holiday, they have a parade, and have floats with statues of Jesus, and Mother Mary, and although a religious holiday, people here take the time off to consume A LOT of alcohol. 

I was sorely disappointed when almost all of our Less actives, and Investigators couldn't invite us in to hear our message because they were indeed intoxicated.  But like all hard times on a mission, we were able to find one couple who amidst all the partying they were sitting quietly in front of their house, watering their plants, and we were able to get to know they, and teach a little lesson.  Not sure how they will except our message, but I am hopeful, they have a good spirit with them.  

I have learned a lot this week.  How we are blessed when we go a little farther than we think we can.  When we don't give up easily, and to have faith that people can change, and that although they make mistakes, they can come back again!  

I hope you have a good week.  For my Birthday gift you should all eat some sweet spicy chili Doritos, and watch Batman!  

Love you all with all my heart!   

Muah Muah!  tsup tsup!

-Sister Nott  

April 13: New starts, and a very crazy week

I experienced my first transfer this week.... they are way insane.  
Tues. me and sister Rea heard the devastating news that although I would be getting to stay in this lovely area, with all these wonderful people that I love so much.  My dear trainer was sadly needed somewhere else, and she was transferred to Baguio zone.  I know that every 6 weeks will be hard, no matter what happens to you.  People you love, and have grown so close to will always leave you. those punks....  But it's okay, because I learned so much from Sister Rea, and I am jazzed that we can be forever friends.  

My new companion is sister Lacdo-o, (if you are having a hard time pronouncing it.  Don't worry.  So do I.)  Ha, but she is just so wonderful too.  HOW HAVE I GOTTEN BLESSED WITH 3 GREAT COMPANIONS. I hope my luck never runs out.  She is an adorable Filipino from summer, which is in Vasayas.<----I think thats wrong spelling.  sorry.  pero, she is 24, and was converted at age 19 after her mother died.  So sad, but she has a very strong testimony, and I have already learned so much from her.  It is amazing how every person you meet here helps you so much.  The Lord knows what he is doing with all of the companionships.  

Wed. was a crazy one trying to visit people for Sister Rea to say goodbye to, but we were able to end it well.  With FHE at our favorite Balorans.  Brother was so nice and made us siopao!!!! No one understands how good this food is. We had a good time. with laughing, and tears.  

Thursday after sister Rea left I anxiously waited for my new companion.  The anticipation almost killed me.  no jokes.  But after sister Lacdo-o arrived we got to know each other, and went to work right away.  She is so amazing with people.  and everyone instantly loves her!!!  She has been out for 1 more transfer than me, but already.... so super amazing at teaching.  wowza. I'm kind of jealous.  but 'thou shalt not covet.'  

Friday my poor companion was sick, so I did a lot of studying, which is something I always love.  EXTRA STUDY TIME!  know why?  cause the Book of Mormon is the best. She actually felt well enough to go to a baptism in our ward.  Which is always nice to be able to support these new members in their oh so great, and righteous decisions. 

Saturday and Sunday were amazing glorious days. because we were able to watch CONFERENCE!!!!  I loved every single one of the talks, and how a lot of them were about raising your children on Jesus Christ, and His principals. How we can teach them to invite others to come unto Christ when they are young.  "There are no age restrictions for missionary work."  What we have is true, and we should want to share it with everyone.  I always love when we hear stories, about how faith brings knowledge, and Elder Uchdorf really rocked it out this year.  Of course.  I was also thrilled when we had SIX of the Meana family come to 2 whole sessions of conference!!!  Brothers baptism is this Saturday, and I couldn't be more excited, although his children need to be extended, this is only the beginning for their family to become eternal!  Me and sister Lacdo-o are making plans for his daughter who is 16.  She is very sweet, and know she will find great joy and comfort is this Gospel that we have found great joy and comfort in!

So here are to forever memories, new adventures, and a good start to great things. 

I love you all very much, have an enjoyable week!  

Live long and prosper. 

until next week!

-Sister Nott

April 7

Sorry, not creative enough to think of a subject line.  

pero, family!!!! 

How was conference?!?!?!  I am a little jeould that yous get to watch it a week before me.  punks.... but I hope you were able to learn a lot, and eat a cheese ball, and other delicious conf. food.  

This has been another good week here in Agoo, and maybe the last.  Seeing how transferrs are tomorrow.  

I get headaches a lot here, I guess that would happen if you change everything about your life!  I can't imagine they are as severe as the ones dad gets, but let me tell you pops.  I am very sorry you get them so often.  They are the spawn of Satan.  You are a champ.

We had companion exchanges this week with the STL's.  I was terrified because I had to lead the area.  So I worked with sister Lazan, and we started off by me missing the turn for our first apt. luckily the lovely sister Kaimi was working with us and corrected the tryke driver kasi the bobo (dumb) American doesn't know what's happening ever.... ha...  but it was a really good learning expirence for me.  Sister Lazan is the def. of being bold and loving!!!  After our day, during evaluation she only said positive.  Not because there was only positives... trust me.... but becasue she is just a really good loving STL that wants to help us.  The only thing she told me to do is not think before I talk.  Which sound funny.  But I am telling you.  If you just open your mouth and speak what you think is Tagalog you are better at right grammer, and you say words you didn't even remember knowing.  So if any of you are wanting to learn a language for some reason... don't over-think it.  

Wed night, after a good day of lessons me and sister Rea were waling home when 3 men started walking right towards us.  All of our leaders, including president, has warned us to be very carful because we are the only 2 foreigners in our zone.  So we were trying to turn when one walked right up to us with a lump in his shirt and said "do you like chicken?" US;"opo" him: "do you like chicken?" us: "wen" (yes in Ilicano) then he reached for the lump in his shirt, and sereiously I thought it was a gun, or a bomb, or some sort of lethal weapon when he pulls out a MASSIVE. LIVE. chicken and the chicken goes *spuak*  hahaha.  So we ran away laughing while they were apologizing for scaring us. hahaha.  The times here. I am telling you.  No one can possibly describe the Philippines where you wouldn't come here and understand.  that is why everyone should come here.  IT'S AMAZING!!! 

Thurs my heart was literally broken.  

Did you know that it could happen on my mission?  well it can.  We have been teaching Rommie, the Filipino that is very well off, and only speaks to us in English.  He has been so receptive, the spirit has been SO strong in all of our lessons with him.  They always say that people will be prepared to here this message.  He was prepared.  But after opening our lesson with a prayer he told us he had to confess something.  Then very solemnly he told us how him and his wife got into a big fight because he wanted to investigate this church more, because he told her he knows it's right.  She told him that he needs to stop, and she told all the neighbors to watch out for us and make sure we don't come again.  I was devastated.  But we know that the most important part of God's plan is the family.  And we do not want to be the problem for any contention.  So we wrote our number down, and told him to text us if she decides it is okay to continue.  Then we all went around and bore our testimonies, and tears were falling everywhere.  Then he says " I don't have to give you back the Book of Mormon do I?  I really enjoy reading it."  So still crying I told him how if he continues to read it, and pray.  One day he will be able to continue with the discussions, then sister Rea promised that one day he will be baptized.  It was such a powerful, bitter-sweet lesson.  I will never forget Rommie for as long as I live.  I learned a lot about what this gospel means, and the blessing it is in my life because of him. 

The Meana family is doing well.  The dad is able to be baptized on April 19th but the children and mom have to wait because they haven't been coming to church.  It is really hard to have people use their agency. I know that sounds evil.  But sometimes I get to a point where I feel I have done everything and they still don't want to come to church.  Ha, but I guess thats how it goes.  You who are reading this email.  KEEP YOUR COMMITMENTS!!!!  But the Meana family really is so great, so sweet, and very smart. 

We were able to watch women conf. on Sat.  I started crying during the opening song.  So I guess you could say I LOVED IT!!!  I loved all they said about looking to righteous women. So thanks to you righteous woman in my life, especially you mom.  You have been the biggest blessing in my life.  You are cool, hip, righteous, funny, and sino una ka (ancient) HAHAHA! 

I love you fam, bam hope you have a killer week!!!  

Muah, Muah, tsup, tsup! 

-Sister Nott 

P.S HAPPY BIRTHDAY ZOEY!!!!  I love you too pieces, and I hope that it is a day full of pink, and glitter, and sass!  Mahal Kita boo. 

March 30: Wowza.

First!  CONGRATS TO MICHELLE SNYDER!!!  SHE WAS CALLED TO SERVE IN SAN ANTONIO TEXAS!!!  My favorite of favorite places, what a doll.  She will do so many good things!!!  

Family!

How are you all?  How was Rubby's Inn?  Excited for conference?

This week flew by crazy fast.  But I guses all weeks sort of fly by here.  It was a week full of plenty of sun, heat, graduations, and good food.

Every Tuesday we have District meeting.  So all the zone meets at our chapel.  after our meeting it was Christmas in March.  We have a senior couple named the Dinkel's who are going home this transfer.  So, as a going home gift to us they made us NAVAJO TACOS!!!!  With chili, lettuce, and cheese!  and then for dessert she brought more american food called HOMEMADE MANGO JAM!!!  I am always happy when Im eating, let's be honest, but I was WAY happy that time.  Heaven sent those two.  That same night a member cut up this funky fruit that is green and spiky on the outside, but yellow on the inside!  Why are they blessed here with such delicious things?  It tastes like a mix between oranges and banana.  |They also have a fruit called chikko (I think that is how it's spelled.) It tastes like straight brown sugar.  No jokes!!!  okay.... sorry... We all know I could write a novel about food.  But i'll move on to the more important things. 

Oh, one more fun thing.  On wed. for our hour lunch we went to a 1 year olds B-day party.  It was insane.  I don't think I have, or ever will again go to such an elaborate party.  They had confetti, a buffet, Filipino CLOWNS THAT DID MAGIC! and a whole roasted pig.  Now all the parties I throw are going to be lame because I've been to the best. 

Okay, now serious,

It is now summer for real.  around 33 degrees C before the hottest hours of the day.  But it's great!  We try really hard to PBTW or serve so we can save souls (obvi) but also to get out of the sun for a spell.  It was graduation so a lot of our planned lessons were punted <----- parents yo now what that is like now that we are all missionaries.  Ha, but it's oday.  Because during you punts you get hilarious stories.  Like after we had been walking since 12:30-5:00 with no stopping, and no lessons, and the sun had started making us a little more laughy, a little more crazy, you go to just another house that you know in hopes to teach one precious soul that day.  You turn the corner and see, very clearly the table of gamblers scatter and you LA, a very healthy (that is what they call very large here. "healthy".  Ha)  30 year old bound behind her house, then her child runs to you and says that "she went to Manila, she won't be back for a long time." So we say "okay, just tell you mom this right away.  That we love and miss her." then before realizing what he is saying he goes. "Sige, I'll tell her." Then his face shows the realization that we figures him out. HAHAHA we felt a pretty clever.  then while leaving we say "Bye bye sister!!"

We taught Leticia again.  We invite her to church and she says "I will try .  but I CANNOT promise.  Because God will be mad if I can't keep that promise." hahaha.  I prefer that instead of broken commitments we get all day, every day.  

The Meana family is doing really good.  He is down from 5 cups of coffee a day to 1, and a pack of cigarettes a day to 1 lang.  The lesson we had with them was a real testimony builder of the power of prayer for me.  They are really strong, but, he has a WOW problem like I said.  and they don't always have enough money for all of them to come to church.  So we were going to have to be bold with them.  We prayed before we went that they would be able to fill our love, and that we are only wanting what's best for them.  We opened with a prayer and before we said ANYTHING he flat our said. "I know I need to stop smoking, and we all need to start going to church if we want to be baptized."  WOW! So we just said "yes, you are right."  Then we read Msh 18:8-9 talking about baptism covenants.  and we really went into detail about how becoming a member is a lifestyle change. you change your heart. EVERYTHING to be in line with God's will.  It was a beautiful lesson full of great comments from them, and lots of laughs!  Prayer is real, and dedication comes with the Book of Mormon  The only investigators that progress are the ones who read it.  If you are struggling with something, anything about the gospel, or a hard time in like READ THE BOOK OF MORMON!  I's true. ibigsabihin Joseph Smith was a prophet. ibigsabhihin the Restored gospel of Jesus Christ in again on the earth!

I love you all, hope you like the long email. MOM!!!! hahaha. okay. Muah muah, tusp tusp.  that means XOXO

till next week

-Sister Nott

March 23: SHA-SHA-SHA-SHAK NI! SHA-SHA-SHA-SHAK NI! SHA-SHA-SHA-SHAK NI! AMIN SWERTE UPO!!!

That was the chant for my group in the zone activities last Monday.  It translates to I-I-I-I am I-I-I-I am I-I-I-I am I'M A LUCKY VEGTABLE!   (going along to a famous very repetitive Babylonian song that Mark loves SO musch) hahahaha

I was pretty proud of it, It was a great chant, and I would like to say it caught on pretty quick! 

Sorry this is going to be so short, but seriously It was such a hard-working week.  Which is awesome.  But not a ton of stories.  

On Friday me and Sister Rea went to the Elders area because there is a sister there that wanted us to visit her.  While we were there we saw 2 white people out side of their lovely home, watering their lovely plants.  We said hi to them, but that was all.  We were waiting in the bus wait stop for one of our workers when my heart started racing like I needed to go talk to them.  Then sister Rea says to me. "Sister Nott, I feel like you need to go talk to them."  So I got up the courage and we walked over. (I know it shouldn't be scary to approach people.  We do it every day.  ALL day.  but when they are white, it is TERRIFYING!!  For they don't have that good ol' Filipino hospitality. ) I swear I was sent here to find every English speaking person in Agoo.  They are a lovely couple around 50 or 60 that are from... wait for it.... GERMANY!!!  with sweet German accents and all.  Their names are Martin and his wife is Marian.  They didn't know any Lifferths, and I felt like a sinner because for the life of me, I cannot remember what town Grandpa is from.  WHAT IS THE NAME?!?!?  Anyway we talked about sauerkraut and family.  When I went to give him a pamphlet he said "oh there is no need.  I am a proud Catholic."  But after talking a little more to him, he said how it is just important to know that we are not alone in the world.  We agreed, and how it is important to always give thanks to God for all of our blessings, and in the end he did take the pamplet!  I told him that I would come back soon with the name of the Town, and pictures... so if you want to send some this week.  That would be rad.  

We had to extend the date for the dear Meana family baptism.  They both struggle with the WOW, so sana, they will be ready by April 19th.  They are good good people that are getting way to much criticism from their neighbors that used to be their friends.  But it is like that quote that Elder Holland says about The Book of Mormon, and how it is torn apart and criticized because it is true.  Satan doesn't want us to do what is right, as we all very well know.  We know that he stops people, and works harder on those that will do great things.  They will do great things.... They are strong, pray for the Meana Family. 

At the Zone training last week when Elder Ardern talked about applying 'true doctrine' in our lessons.  That is exactly what me and Sister Rea did.  We have had a full week of good lessons, with good participation on the investigators, LA, and members a like.  It was a good good week, but very tiring and me and Sister Rea rejoiced in the fact that today it is P day, and we can take a nice long nap.....

Love you all, have a blast at Rubby's Inn.  Unless you only stayed until this morning.  In that case I hope you had a great time!  Hope you ate lots for me, and swam, and stayed up until all hours of the night! 

Till next week,

-Sister Nott

March 16: Dull Bus Rides, and Marriage advice

Hello po family!

It has been a good week here as a missionary in the Philippines!  I haven't become a Filipino missionary.... YET!  For I can't squat for hours on end, seriously, you give me a good 3 minutes of squatting and I panic for fear of my body snapping off my legs.  I also can't speak Tagalog. BUT, I have gotten very skilled at cleaning cobwebs off the ceiling, and man, can I get my white clothes white.  So white that they practically sparkle!  So slowly and surly I will become Filipina. 

Monday we had FHE with a Recent Convert where I tried Ilicano food for the first time.  I can't tell you the name... because I don't know it.  But dang, it is good.  I also learned that the best part on fried fishes are the parts that us silly Americans take off.  The fins, and the skin right by the head.  I learn that in America we waste the good parts of food for fear of choking on a fish bone or something.... how often does that really happen?  The family that had us was so very happy to have us there.  The Elders did a hilarious game that got about all the children in the brgy. involved!  They have such a sweet feeling in their house.  Full of lots of love.  

We started teaching a man named Rommie, he is about 60 or so.  Him and his wife just moved back from Sadi Arabia because she was a COOK FOR THE ROYAL FAMILY!!!  They have a beautiful home.  Although the wife doesn't seem too interested yet, Rommie says he has a lot of questions, he reads the pamphlets but says"It's just like the Catholic Church." So we taught the Restoration and Joseph Smith, It was a very powerful lesson.  Although Filipino, they speak to us in English, so we are able to teach so much in such a short time period!  Sana as we continue teaching Sister will join us.  There is a shirt that everyone wears here that says NEVER GIVE UP! I covet it whenever I see it because I want one so bad.  But I repent.  magsisisi ako.

We also started teaching a born again family.  That is also a tough one.  They are very dedicated in their religion (Family, you know that I was afraid the would be my main downfall as a missionary.  I really like when people are dedicated to even religion.  It is so rare now.  Everyone here is Christian.  But not religious.  Does that make sense?  But ever since being here I see the importance of the FULLNESS OF TRUTH in people lives. So it is easier that I thought to want to continue teaching them.) Born Again are pretty similar to LDS in a sense that they don't believe in statues of Mother Mary, or crosses in their home, or church.  We are going to introduce the BOM of friday, and I am way jazzed.  Hopefully they can feel the difference. Lessons are getting easier for me.  I obviously have days that I struggle like a tipped over cockroach.  But the spirit is much more prevalent more often!  

We also had quad zone training.... guess where..... BAGUIO!!!  I finally got to go.  The bus ride was far too mild for my liking, and even though it was still hot.  It was a nice break from the sauna I call home.  Elder and Sister Ardern from the area 70 spoke to us!  It was really good!!!  He started out with "We weren't going to talk much about this, but we fill impressed to talk about how missions prepare you for your eternal companion!" and for the next 1 1/2 we had really good.... marriage counsel. HAHAHAHAHA!  They kept telling story after story of missionaries who marry each other after they return home.  I was waiting for the "DON'T DO THAT" part that never came.  Oh boy, we are going to have a serious lock your heart problem in our mission now!  Ha.  But I guess we are never to young to learn... right?  Ha he also said this amazing quote. (You can make it into a wall sticker, or t-shirt.  If your heart so desires.) "Look OUT, before you look IN.  Look UP to God, before you look DOWN with despair.  Look FORWARD with faith, before you look BACK to what you had." -Elder Ardern  Him and his wife went on to tell us amazing advice how to be an effective, respected, obedient missionary!  It got me so excited to do missionary work!!!  

So I am pumped, I am healthy, I am Happy!! 

Love you all!!!

-Sister Nott

love you all, this is for your benefit!

Hello my friends and family!  Mom, and Family.  I heard your chant about longer emails, pero, I have 85 unread emails, even though I am pretty sure that 60 of those are from mom.  HAHAHA  I am going to write a quick 6 liners, so I can answer all the emails, that way every other week I won't be stressing the way I do!  Deal? deal. 

This was a good week!  I got a lot of you dear elders, I think you may have the wrong address though, so the mail is taking longer?  Not sure, but probably.  so here it is again. 

Okay, so good week.  We had to kill a baby python that was in our kitchen yesterday, then we had to burn it because our Filippino housemate said that they can take pictures with their eyes, and other snakes can hunt you down.  probs not true, but it scared me enough to just do as she said, then bury the ashes.....  We had a decent amount of lessons compared to the amount of punts we received, I scored us another straight english speaking investigator, so life is good!  Love it here.  It will be sad the day one of us gets transferred.  Maybe we will be lucky and it will never happen! 

Tell Eric and Linda CONGRATULATIONS!!!!  I am so so so so so very happy for them!!!!!!  They are a good couple, and will have the greatest marriage!  send me pictures when it happens!  OKAY?  

That's all for now!  

until next week

-sister nott!  

March 2: Tan lines, transfers, and Summer.

Remember how every letter I say that it's not here?  I swear the next week out beats it, but on the plus side.  I have a sweet 'Toms' tan line (they are a type of shoe Mom+Dad, I thought I should specify because you are kind of old and don't know that sort of thing.)  They are like crazy expensive in America $60 I think.  Here, they are 110 peso's, that is like less than $5!  Plus they are the most comfortable shoes to prosylite in.  Now, even when I take them off, my feet still looks like I'm wearing them!  #missionaryproblems


-Right as I'm about to be offended that this is all she writes to us.....


oh wow, embarrassing.  I didn't finish.

We were able to go to an FHE on Monday at a members house!  It was great.  The sister was so sweet, and made Sardine pancit!  I kid you not FAM BAM. Everyone should eat sardines always.  So tasty.  Maybe better than tuna.  Not the canned tuna here, for it is 50 times better than America.  We also played some games, taught some scriptures!  FHE is a great way to have the members warm up to the missionaries, so we always like when someone offers!  

Tues. was a sad day.  Sister (nurse) Wright got transferred..:(  She was in my batch, and my MTC roommate since we aren't done training it was a big surprise.  But she is 23, a RN, has a killer testimony, and a definite next STL.  so president probably wanted to start her on training.  She did a lot of the same things Mary would do.  So she was a blessing for me.  Mares, no one can ever replace you. OBVI!!! but her being similar made me feel you got to be here with me a little longer.  I guess Heavenly Father know I needed to slowly get used to not having you to text whenever I want.  but sometimes I send you little brain wave texts, do you get them?  Since she, and our zone leader got transferred, and Sister Wright+Cardenio had a baptism that we all attended on the beach.  After we took some "jumpshots" on the beach.  Anyone who knows me knows how much I HATE "jumpshots"  No one jumps at the right time, and at the end everyone is frustrated.  But here is a mission miracle.  We had not one, but TWO perfect shots!  What a good day.

We were able to teach more lessons than last week.  We found a few new investigatiors, one is really promising and sweet, probably 45 with 2 kids.  Single mom.  I love the way peoples eyes light up when you share this AMAZING message on how we can live with our families in Heaven FOREVER!  It truly is a 'glad tiding'  Alma 39:15  I love even more when you have amazing member families who help this work along, by being so loving to everyone!

Wed. we had another FHE at on of those missionary member families!  Thye taught me and sister Wright )transfers wasn't until Thursday) how to make pancit, and Banana turon!!!<---- my favorite!  All it is is banana rolled in brown sugar  wrapped in a turon( i don't know how to describe it.  just ask Braden McCoy!  Ha)  I also get to eat fresh mango's whenever I feel I want one, and tried the heavenly fruit of Guava.  So ya.  Life is good!  

The Meana family always brings :D to everyone.  We went with our amazing fellow shippers to teach them.  They said how they read the Book of Mormon, then talked about what they liked, and discussed the questions their questions, they said how they have already started talking to others about reading it!  They they informed us that we couldn't come the next day because they will be finding some treat of snack to sell to have money for the tryke ride to church!  I'm telling you, solid family.  Oh man, We love them so much!  

We went to teach Brother Bob's family (he is the man from England with the Filipino children)  Anyway, he is abroad for work for 2 months, darn, but we still play games and give little lessons to his children.  We went at a time where only 3 were awake, so we got ready to teach them, they grabbed their Book of Mormon, sat down, got up and left.  So we waited a little while in the silence.  No one was coming, so we popped our head around the corner and they were ALL asleep.  HAHAHAHA!  They were bored before we even started!  It gave us a good laugh, and one more punt....

I did a PBTW to a Filipino that has lived in Cali for the past 13 years as an engineer, I haven't heard so much curse words in a while!  Ha, he also had a lot of 'swag' so automatically I did some swag back, remembered that i am a missionary now, and corrected my ways. Way to represent the church sister Nott..... Old habits die hard.... 

So ya, I would say we had another enjoyable week here in Agoo!  A man was waiting for us to walk past him so he could pass us his number and said to us "call, calling ako" Ha!  but Sister Rea lost the phone, Ha, oops..... 

The people here are the best!  Truly, this is a chosen land.  No wonder President Hinckley loved it so much!  

I love you all, Happy Birthday Adam, I hope it is the best so far!  Lots of Loves, and Filipino hospitality!  

-sister Nott

I very much miss my sister -Mary

Feb. 23: Ya, I don't know!

Okay, so I just read the Mom's subject line that says "We want longer emails"  HAHAHA!!! I really do try but it is hard when you have had 3 weeks in a row of punts!  Ha, so sorry friends and family.  but this might be another short email for not much happens when you walk and walk all day except for rad tans, and the excitement of all the different fruit that is in EVERY tree around you!  

No matter how hard this week may have been, Me and Sister Rea just seem to laugh harder every time we get punted.  it might be because it is so ironic, or because we get delirious.... either way, our spirits aren't dampened! 

Transfers are this week, and we find out tomorrow if any of our house mates are leaving us.  None should be because we are a house full of trainers/trainees.  Pero, still scary.  I know that my mission will be full of transfers, but I think that our house is the best it can possibly be.  We all get along, laugh, and cook Filipino food so We have been praying that if President feels inspired for one of us to leave, hopefully he will change his mind, and will scribble it off his list!  

Wednesday was a pretty average one.  a lot of punts, I don't know if it is the time of year or what.  People just really don't want to listen to us.  Ha, probably around Easter is will pick back up, and then again at Christmas.  HAHA!  but serious.  So a lot of walking, we finally got a lesson in about Joseph Smith to a new investigator, her Dad was a member but died a few years ago.  She is majo (kind of) receptive, so hopefully she will keep letting us come.  Then it was followed with more walking.  We only had time for one more appointment, so we prayed hard that one of our sweet less actives Sister Eswesta would be home.  and guess what?  SHE WAS!!!!  She is the funniest, person with the kindest heart.  She tells us who is praying, and is so good with answering questions, and then tells us when we are done and need to leave!  Ha, however now that we are friends, we have to politely leave for she could talk to us all day!  Anyway, she was so sweet.  She told us how happy she was we came to visit her, and then at the end of our lesson of "keeping the Sabbath day Holy" She gave us pancit, rice, and pepsi (remember how I never drank caffeine before my mission, and now I drink it quite regularly?  sorry Mom.....)  She truly was a blessing to us in our time of despair.  

Thursday was a lot the same, we heard some bad news about a few of our precious souls, just some struggles they have, it is never easy to see people choose the wrong. but luckily we were able to forget all our sorrows when we visited our Meana family!  No matter what, we always leave with smiles.  They speak straight Ilicano, and they understand Tagalog, but not mine.  obvi. So we were able to go with Two of the members that speak ilicano  We have amazing members here, which I say a lot.  But it is true.  They take so much time our of their busy schedules to come to lessons, share such great insight, and let me tell you.  They have such powerful words to say.  A lesson is always filled with the spirit when a member is there to help!  We planned a lesson on 'praying often'  which turned into praying for answers, then to the book of Mormon, then to importance of family, back to answers from the book of mormon, and praying.  It was a very powerful lesson.  They excepted a IBD, so if all goes well they will be baptized March 29th!!!!  yippee!!!!!  So excited for them, they are an amazing family.  

Saturday was like the others, started bad, ended great!  After having like 2 lessons, we were walking to the area that is closest to home and while buying Halo Halo received 7 potential investigators that want us to teach them!!!  Then as we kept walking we were invited to a birthday party of a little girl turning 4.  The whole family was there, so about 9, they fed us noodles, and cake WITH FROSTING!!!  I just really miss American desserts, so it was a nice treat!  Ha.  I think they only invited us in because we were white, and the whole time they were trying to get us to marry their 20 year old brother.  But they did say we could come back, so we'll take it!  

None of our investigators came to church, so that was cool.  ha. but other than a few downs it has been a very good week.  I understand mostly everything, at least i can make estimated guesses.  The speaking is a lot harder, but it will come.  I'm working at it!  Ha. I love you all, I love being a missionary.  I love the Philippines!!!  XOXO

-Sister Nott  

punts, and white people - Feb. 16

Pamilya Ko!!!!

I for real have seen like 10 white people this week.  They are all very cold to my smiles, and energetic hand waves.  They must hate Mormons like most people.  Ha!  

This week I probably walked 25 miles.  Not joking.  It's great because we have no time to go running out here so since we are already sticky, sweaty, stinky, and full of the spirit.  We figure we can count it as exercise.  Right?  This was on account of being punted all day, every day.  Wed. we planned for 7 lessons.  ALL of them got punted.  We only taught 2 lessons the whole day, but they were first contact with people we met on the streets.  (We call them Preach by the ways, [PBTW]  so when I say PBTW, that is what I mean) Anyway, one of our PBTW we met last P-day during email.  Guess where he is from?  ENGLAND.  So guess what language we taught in?  ENGLISH!!!!  My companion and I started talking to him, his name is brother Bob and has children baptized in the 'Mormon Church' ARE YOU SERIOUS?!?!  how perfect is that seed that was planted!  so we decided to visit him after the 4th punt, for we were going quite delirious.  We saw him walking home, and he invited us to come over.  Then he says "I'm drinking beer, so don't burn me."  Ha!  We all had a good laugh, we will teach him the word of wisdom soon enough.  Anyway, it was a really good lesson.  He had 7 kids, they all speak Tagalog, but understand English.  Brother Bob said that he thinks his kids should go back to Church, and that he should go with them!  Ya!!!  I know, so great!  They couldn't come this week, but hopefully next.  How rad would it be to baptize a white man in the Philippines!!!  It was a tender mercy (as mom would put it) totally made our week!

The nrest of the week week was filled with more punts, so few lessons were taught, always frustrating, but it's a new week!  The Meana family (the investigators where the preacher came during our lesson, then the next week all of them except the dad went to the other preachers church, and I was so sad.)  We had another lesson with them and they said that they all want to be baptized.  IN OUR CHURCH!!!  The dad has a lot of health problems,and is blessed to realize that this gospel is his answer to his prayers.  It's amazing to see miracles like this happen everyday here!  4 of the children came to church this week!  Our branch, Agoo 1 is so amazing, like SO amazing, at helping the missionaries our, they were so welcoming to the Meana family at Church!  That is what investigators need.  FRIENDS AT CHURCH!  So here is a loving commitment from me to you, help out them missionaries. Five them food, refferals, offer to sit in on lessons, and become friends with the less actives in your ward.  FUN, right?

Valentines day here is a big deal.  Everyone goes all out.  We counted, and we had 25 'Happy Valentine's day' shout outs!  sister Wright got asked out on a date, so we said she won! hahahahaha  I also rescued from the middle of the highway, what an adventure it is here!  

Love you all so much, you must know that by now!  I say it so much, but I still mean it!  

Kita Kits dolls!  

-sister Nott 

Baptisms and Preachers - Feb. 9

Hey Pamilia ko!

Very good week!  I am going to have to make this a short one!  Sorry, I am buying a songbook online today.  FINALLY!!! If anyone you know is planning on serving, tell them to buy a mini hymn book.

Tues was the craziest day here so far, we had an STL come work with us in our area.  It was awesome, we learned tons about planning, and managing our time with lessons!  We went to the Meana family, they are an investigating family with 11 kids!!!  And are all so great, everyone gathers to hear our lessons!  While we were teaching about living prophets today, a man walked up and asked in Tagalog"how can you know that you have the truth?"  I didn't fully understand, obviously, hindi mabuti sa Tagalog.  So the STL just says "Sister Nott, will you answer this mans question?"  So thinking he was genuine I answer with a massive smile and say "How we know is we read the Book of Mormon, we ponder it, and we pray to know the truth for ourselves.  We will feel the truthfulness of it in our hearts."Then he says in perfect English "No, show us a scripture that proves that the Book of Mormon is true instead of the Bible."  Wow, was my heart racing.  So then we continue to tell him how we believe that together they contain the full truth, then with a warm smile we answer his questions, and thank him for his insights.  He started trying to argue with us, when the dad of the family (bless his soul) stands and goes "okay sisters, wait for us at church, we'll be there!"  My happiness was un-measurable.  It really proved to me that when people want to know, they can see this is the true church.  I also think that the family was beyond grateful we didn't turn it to contention.  Yesterday the Dad came to church!!! but..... I guess some of his kids went to the Preachers church....  Ha..... Which surprises me seeing they were son on our side.  I'm hoping they are just seeing how it is, which is good.  We want them to know for themselves!  

Wed. was mission pres. interviews, mine was a whole 3 minutes.... HAHAHAHA  sort and sweet. 

Sat. (HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARY)  was my first baptism, the font is under construction in our chapel so.... WE HAD IT AT THE BEACH!!!  it was the most beautiful setting you could ask for!  Sunset, we were near a karokee bar where someone was singing 'Stand by Me'  Ha, it really was lovely.  The missionary that got them so ready for baptism was able to come baptize them.  We had a few less actives come to church.  We have been praying so hard for so long to come and finally, yesterday HE CAME!!!!!  Masaya po ako!!!  

We have termites in our house, and they ate the boxes of Book of Mormons that were stored under our stairs, and devoured some pamplets.  So that is cool.  Anyway, like always.  Being here is the best, gets better everyday!  Love you all thanks for the emails, and support!!!  Till next week

-Sister Nott 

February 2: Another day, another peso.

Well, for the last 10 minutes I had about 4 Filipinos stand right behind me and very noticeably read my email to Hailee!  HA!  Have I ever said how much I love it here?  Well I do!  Every day I just see 5 men standing up in the back of trucks, people hanging out of trykes, I drink Milk and eggs that you buy from off the shelf, not the refrigerator.  I came to conclusion.  American worry too much about everything.   

This week has been a very disappointing, only 8 lessons type of week.... Almost all of our lessons were punted, and me and Sister Rea got very good at walking.  As the song says.  "and walked, and walked, and walked, and walked, AND walked."  This one day that was particular tough we went searching for a less active family.  Now remember.  The church attendance is like 17% here. So 50% of our time is focused on less actives.  So anyway, we were searching for this family.  No one knew who they were.  We were about to give up, but we felt like we should ask one more family, after asking for someone you always try to tell the person helping you about your message as well, so my companion asked if it would be okay if we came back and teach them bukas!  And she said yes!!!!!! So we went back the next day, and guess what.  This sweet family has 11 children, they all gathered around and listened so intently! even though they mostly only understood Ilicano, and Me and my Kasama don't even speak that much Tagalog..... But at the end we asked that that if they prayed to know that this church was true, would they be baptized.  And they said yes AGAIN!!!  We invited them all to church on Sunday, they didn't come, bummer.  But I really think that if we keep coming they will!  I have a good feeling about these ones.  They have sweet spirits!   

We have a baptism this week for A lovely Mom, and her 2 lovely Children, I am very excited!  even though they already had a Baptism date before we got here, I am going to just count it as my first one!  

Oh man, sorry this is a short email, but really, it was just a pretty routine week, no fun foods were eaten, and nothing too crazy happened.  This morning we had a zone activity, where we did a sort of 'Amazing Race'  It was about 8 million degrees, and about 500% humidity.  I will send a picture of what I looked like BEFORE we even started. So you can imagine what I looked like at the end.... It is hilarious how ugly I am here.... always.....  The weather here hasn't been too hot thus far, but I swear it changed over night.  It scares the lights out of me that it is still winter here.... DUN DUN DUN!!!!!  Anyway, I love you all.  Thanks for the love and support!  I read the story of Alma+Amulek, Ammon (what a stud), The fights between the Lamenites, and the Anti-Nephi Lehis, So if you want.  I would suggest re-reading them.  The Book of Mormon is the greatest Aklat ever in existence!  So many truths, good stories, and testimonies of God.  Joseph Smith was a prophet of God!  This church is the real deal!  No jokes!

-Sister Nott! 

I knew I was missing one....

I guess I didn't go through my emails quite thoroughly.  

January 19

"A:one more! (serious, you see people hanging off the sides, sitting on top)

Hello for Agoo!  My very first area of the best 18 months of my life!!! 

The trip to get here was a wild one.  stepping off the plane to Manila was like stepping into a swimming room!  holy smokes.  We were all commenting on how hot it was.  Then the only smart person in our group said. "You say it's so hot, guess what!?!?  It's in the middle of the night."  HAHAHAHA  it was, 4 30 AM.  But the weather really isn't THAT bad.  I just let myself sweat, walang worries!  

The pres. and his wife are truly SO amazing!  I feel so blessed they are my mission president+mission mom.  We did a day of "training" which was really just a bunch of games, that included Proselyting, shopping, cooking, washing clothes, and playing in the sand on the beach!  

That night we all ate on the beach, in the moonlight of the full moon, with the filipino summer air, the waves crashing, and we got to eat THE MOST FANTASTIC MEAL WITH OUR HANDS!!!!!  It truly was the coolest thing.  It was shanghi rolls, with pansit, and of course RICE!  after we were done the pres let us go on the beach one more time to see the ocean at night, he is for real way rad!  

The next day (oh we were staying at the SYL's house during this time period) We met our mga Kasama!  Mine is sister Rea, she is from Australia, has the same style as me, and is also 19!  I think we will have a good time!  But something even cooler,  Sister Wright, and Sister Otia are in my same house!! what are the odds?!  Joke lang, odds don't happen in the mission!  We already have a good time!  

The driving here is hilarious!  We either take jeepney's trykes, or we walk.  Look up pictures of these!  They are way rad! What I love about the Philippines, which is everything, but to be specific, Is people here.  They do what they want.  They just drive around slow people, and dart out in intersections, they stare at you and say "hello ma'am, what is your name."  (I am going to be so shocked when I come back home and males won't cat call me, and ask for my number every 100 feet.) They sing kareoke all night, then the next morning at 5 45 they are up working!!!  Very hard working people!  

I understand when some people speak, but mostly they just talk to me, then laugh like crazy at my broken response! I gave my testimony and introduction about myself Sunday.  They laughed for my first sentence to my last! HAHA It was hilarious.  But they really do appreciate that we try.  I say like 3 Tagalog words and they say "Magaling po ka sa Tagalog."  which is " You are great at Tagalog"  

Everyone here is so sweet, the members are SOO willing to help, they like ask US if they can help!  We have people lined us for the next 4 days to teach with us!  

I thought that the food here would be fresh, but since everything is fresh..... They fry EVERYTHING!  ha, and meat is for every meal.  I haven't gotten sick yet, but then again..... our apt has only had bread and milk since I got here!  Today we are going to buy out the whole palenke (market) 

I woke up the day after I got here, walked to the outside sink to brush my teeth, looked at the beautiful everything and thought "I wished I lived here."  That is how I feel every day!  I have never been so excited to be doing anything!  I wish you could all come see what I mean!  

I love you, I love my Savior, I love the Philippines! 

till next time

-Sister Nott"

First Post...

Welcome to Anna's mission blog!!  This is Mary, Anna's sister, and I will be updating this blog with letters, pictures, and stories of Anna's mission.  First, I need to apologize for lack of creativity on this site.  I will get around to decorating it, but the posts should be the most important....right?

Sister Nott went into the Provo MTC on December 4.  Let me tell you this, having your sister leave for a year and a half is HARD.  Don't worry, this blog won't be about how much I miss her, and how you should feel bad for me.  I just want you all to know how wonderful a sister she is, and what a fantastic missionary she has already been.

Here are her first and second emails from the Philippines.

January 15
"Family and beloved friends.  

I have 10 minutes to speed write you to say that I'M HERE IN BAGUIO!!!!  The plane ride was very very very very very long.  the bus ride was very very very very very very long.  so after about 30 something hours, and skipping Tuesday completely.  We made it!  I will write you in more details Monday.  Listen, I want to apologize for the lack of phone calls Monday.... I had very little time, and my phone card didn't work.  I am sorry that you all probably woke up early, and stayed by your phone all day!  But please know my love for you!  

My mission President and his wife seem AMAZING!!!  They wanted me to thank you (mom and dad) for letting us come to Baguio! what dolls right?  They have a blog it's http://baguiophilippinesmission.blogspot.com and a Facebook account under www.facebook.com/anthonyjohn.balledos

They will be posting pictures, and keeping you lovelies updated!  

I am more excited then ever, The Philippines is the most beautiful place I have ever laid eyes on.  It is humid, and hot beyond all get out.  But if we all have big hair, and are sweating cups a day.  Then it's fine by me.  

missionaries that sweat together, stay together in the work!  

I just thought of that.  impressed?  

Love you all

Sorry again for the phone calls!!!  especially to Mary!  I love you sister, I loved our short conversation together!  all we need is 4 minutes to laugh and cry together!!   

I love you all!

-Sister Anna Nott "

Post from January 27

"So.... our Bahay (house) is for real haunted.  We have heard, and seen some pretty crazy stuff.... Nothing to worry about.  Me and Sister Rea have a separate apt. then the other 4 sisters, and MOST of the crazy stuff has happened in ours.  We had our very nice, and willing Zone Leaders dedicate our house.  However, we have gotten permission and have taken all 6 of our mattresses into one room to sleep every night, it is a party.  We just all pray we don't have to use the CR at night! HA!  We think the mumu (ghost) is just a lost soul that wants to hear the gospel, so we take pitty on him! Since it is probably a boy, we will try to refer him to the Elders, because we can't teach the opposite gender.  Ha!  

Also, I have had the craziest food while being here.  While working with some members we bought BBQ on the side of the road.  The BBQ here is quite.... different.... Ha!  I had a cube(that's right a CUBE, it is solid for some terrifying reason) of pigs blood, chicken intestines, and chicken feet.... They didn't taste that bad.  But thinking about eating the blood brought me grief a few dozen times throughout the rest of the day!  They have good food as well though.  Mary, look up these recipes: fish balls (they taste like pastry) egg pie, and fried banana!!!! holy smokes, fried bananas are my new favorite food!  

So this week has been another confusing one.  They don't have addresses here.  They all just live in certain areas, so to find people you have to ask another human where they live.  They will go "doong", and point with their lips one direction.  You go that direction, and you ask again, and again.  until someone points right to their house.  It's crazy!  Lessons, are decent language wise.  Church terms are the only ones I understand.... even then.... I don't understand.... HA!  I can contribute a little, but they can't understand my accent.  My Zone leader says that you have 3 levels of accents.  The normal American, the harder country accents, then.  On a whole separate level, you have Sister Nott's accent.  hahahahaha.  it is too true.  I was in a lesson trying to say 'after'  which in Tagalog is pagkatapos, but I was pronouncing it pagtapos.  So the family thought I was say octopus.... these stories go on, and on, and on..... Ha.  So lessons when I talk turn into a good old time, everyone laughing, pointing at me, and patting each other on the back.  It is for real the best!  

We have a family of four that had a baptismal date before transfers, the mom and the 2 kids are going to be baptized Feb. 8 (Happy Birthday to Mary!!!!!!) but the dad hasn't come to church enough times.  They have to come to church for 4 consecutive weeks in order to be baptized.  He had only come twice.  We were so nervous to tell the family, but let me tell you.  It went awesome!  They are so ready to be baptized, you walk into the house and you just feel the power!  I am excited for what is to come with them!  

We are trying to focus more on less active members.  The active attendance rate is crazy low.  It has been fun to go visit the less actives, but it gets disappointing when they commit to come to church and they don't.  I guess I will get a lot of disappointment these 18 months!  

I have a good time here washing my clothes in a bucket, and showering with cold water, It is like a camping trip, only wearing a skirt!  Ha, you, and your clothes get clean.... enough!!!  It is hard work, but I am having a blast!  thank you for your love, and support back in good ol' Utah!  Lots of love!!!!  

_sister Nott"

These are the children that "jump on us" as Anna writes. 

Again, I apologize for the lack of color in this blog... I will get to it.