Hermana Hipol vs. Empty Chairs at Empty Tables

Where do I start………………?

Changes, changes, changes. I think that this was definitely one of the most bittersweet changes I have had.

I am a grandma!!! That’s right, my daughter, Hermana Avila, my only living companion up to this point (#mishslang) is training! I am so excited!!! I know that she will do great! I also get to stay in my area and keep working with the amazing people here in Juayua. We were taken out of one of the areas, so we officially are working just in Progresso! YAY!!! I am also not a sister training leader anymore so I get a nice little break from leadership responsibilities. It is the first time in my mission that I have been a “normal” missionary, and I kind of don’t know what to do… ha-ha but it’s a great new adventure!! My new companion is Hermana Funez! She is awesome! She is from Honduras and on Saturday she celebrated five years of being a member. She has five months in the mission, and is super animated to share the gospel. She is such a great example! She is the only member in her family and has gone through a lot to be able to come on the mission, but serves with all her heart might mind and strength.

On Friday we got to take our investigators to do a tour of the temple grounds in San Salvador! It was so cool!! I had the chance to sing a special musical number and the spirit was so strong. I sang “Oh My Father” with two Elders. It was great! While we were there I found a reactivating family that I visited back when I was in Piramidal. The whole family is active now and are preparing to be sealed! It was so cool to see them again!

It was so hot this week! I hope the rain comes soon because we are always drenched with sweat! I have definitely had to become a lot better about drinking water! This week was the week of summer vacation too… there was a week-long festival here in Juayua which means lots of overpriced souvenirs and alcohol, but we got to contact some beautiful families!

I just want to close with something that Hermana Spjut said in changes meeting. She said, “The way you deal with change defines who you are.” Saying goodbye to Hermana Steel was by far the most painful thing I have had to do here in the mission, and there is an emptiness that she left behind her when she left, that I know only time and the Lord can fill. But, change helps us grow and become the people God wants us to be.

I love you all! Please remember me in your prayers!

Hoorah for Israel!