it.

I don't know how to start this.

Good afternoon good evening and goodnight--not to you, but moreso these gaming boys whose cross-room shouts steeped with preteen voice malfunctions are preventing this experience from being as monumentally spiritual as it could be.  

I still don't know how to start this.

Hahahah-- this feels like nothing I've ever experienced.

I won't talk so much about past week experiences, as much as everything in a whole. Probably the single most unavoidablly difficult task on these week's to do list. (Getting to my gate not included.)

I know that Jesus Christ lives. 

I woke up this morning, naturally to the morning sunlight, and refused to check my phone, which usually speeds up the heartbeat until it rings. Instead--my mind just occupied itself with thoughts of what Christ did throughout the good majority of His life. Going here, going there, walking all around----the entire time choosing, moreso just naturally having compassion on others. 

He gave them everything. The least of least, captured His time, attention, will, and love. 

And it made me think about we 80,000 and counting, are called to do here as missionaries. 

To go and do what the Savior would. To live like Christ would. To find and help, reach out and serve the way He was so apt to do.

And how, for no reason at all, should this indescribable blessing and privilege be conditional with waxing on, waxing off of a black nametag.

A mission has let me know that this is life long. The gospel is eternity long. The relationships Heavenly Father gives us are eternal. Heavenly Father works with His children. In order to work effectively, any good manager or mentor would know his employees and coworkers to a good degree. Heavenly Father knows His children to a great one.

I tried to keep the signs down to a minimum, manifesting themselves against their will once upon a final weekly planning. Sister Hancock was my best friend to eventually hug me through the tears, as I told her I didn't want to set goals for the last week of my mission. Oh, to understand what is happening--only makes one push it aside to forget it and be where I know how to be best. 

I love you so much. Easter was amazing. Easter Russian cake incredible. Miracles are still happening. I am so grateful for the blessed support and influence you have all been to me on this mission, and in my life. Thank you for your incredible examples of Christlike service and love. 

See you on the other side,

Love,

Sister Clyde

Pweel

So I got 27 minutes and waning.

Astronaut day was Saturday! Everyone loves Gegarina, however it's spelt in English for his space accomplishments--not to mention dashing billboard pearly whites.

Speaking of teeth.

Sister Henricksen and I were enjoying our last of 4 exchanges together, when we came comin' round the mountin' when we came--meaning up and over the beautiful bridge of the Balakovian canal. It stretches over the gorgeous Volga River, one of the few things I've been slighted on throughout my time here in the motherland. Anyway-- the sunshine dancing on the rolling blue waves, a view that stretched for miles, and the chilly breeze brushing our pony tails all over our faces. Not the best contacting strategy if you ask me. Haha-- so we're walking, when all of a sudden this Russian middle ager man leprechaun strides his way up to on the spot inform us that we are the world's most beautiful girls, and where in the world did we get those bright beautiful teeth, doggone it. Taken aback by the absolute lack of normalcy for how to greet 2 passing maidens, I couldn't get a word in--- before he asked more pressingly, "must've gotten them implanted in Germany---they got GREAT TEETH THERE!!!

Sir, don't put words in my mouth, (or for that matter, foreign teeth), in my mouth. Thank ya.

Hahah-- we were already on our busy way past him, distance now increasing, when he tipped it off with yet more detail, "I SERVED THERE IN THE ARMY!!!"  and at this point anything might pacify him/ deter him from booking it after us, so I called "ZDOORAVAH!!" meaning splendid, with a fitting over the shoulder doubled thumbs-up. Haha. I don't know why I did that. But, it got a laugh out of him so I guess that's all the world really needs.

Give or take the incredible light of restored gospel truth.
NEXT!!!

We loved loved loved conference. Loved. 

Boyd K. Packer's closing testimony anyone. Anyone.

A miracle on saturday, as we were finally abe to see dear dear friend Olevtina, who has been on her sick bed for so long.

And then, Remember how Natasha again came to church??? We joined her in her kitchen on thursday to hear the warmest, most wonderful review of her first-time experience at church. There was a tangible, contagious lightness in the way she gracefully smiled, thinking back on the light she felt. And then her thoughts that she didn't shy from sharing about wanting her daughter, Kasoosha, to also join in and see for herself. Oh. She will be baptized. And to see Rustam, basically silenced from the spirit and disbelief at someone so receptive to our sunday meeting. Rustam's silent mode happens rather rarely. Haha. 

Family, I just know the gospel is true. We had a kind of scary experience, heading in to a podezd, stairwell, on Saturday after watching conference and a baptism with our investigator, Daniel, who is soon set for baptism. It was finally time to confront his parents and hear their voiced permission for his decision--something we've been attempting for weeks. Daniel nervously dodged the task, turning down even hints of approval from his mom over the phone. We finally stopped on the dark staircase, and I offered a prayer so that we could have the spirit with us, and to calm Daniel's nerves. And then the miracle happened with them in the kitchen. 

More for next week. No, I can't say that or I'll burst in to tears because it will be my last email home.

I know the gospel is true, I know it I know it, it makes me cry, and I know it.

I love you all, pray to be kinder!!

Love,

Sister Clyde

Hi!

An olden Russian man was sitting on a pipe--already step up from smoking one--that ran parallel to the apartment building we were passing. We asked him for some direction, so I righteously capitalized on the opportunity by initiating gospel conversation with a chap, rather than chick. A neighborhood babooshka overheard the raucous, who happened to be sporting a rather demographic-contradicting pair of silver moonboots, passing by and looking fly. It's safe to say that any perfect stranger who interrupts a moment with any other perfect Russian stranger with an arm raised, finger pointed in our faces, will not be blooming in to Progresso material at any point in the ensuing 24 hours or months.

Don't let that into deter you from the pearls of wisdom we happened to learn from our new-found friend, Viera. She went off on an anti-American rant, despite our pleas to disengage from the fact that it's our country of origin, and insisting on our love for the motherland. "You can only love Russia if you're born here," she chirped with inspiring accusation. I guess I missed that fairy easy to slip addendum of a guildeline on page 63 of the Russian rulebook. Continuing. Throughout the conversation, her armful of clothing continued to drop to the ground--I finally made the attempt to restore it, doing best to not invade personal space while tucking the shirt back in. My technique was deemed sub-par by the way she snatched it and rewrapped it herself, and added that my shirt-wrapping efforts were indicative of my non-Russian roots. Ahhh!!!! Smiles and curtains, keep it together.

She avoided well all jump-cuts to the topic of family, finally proclaiming "you're from America, you speak English!! Ya don't even have your own language," as if inhabiting and setting a virtually unmapped continent weren't challenge enough. Step it up forefathers?  Haha--needless to say, Viera had a good heart and some pretty pumped up kicks.

I think the highlight of the week may have been our district's rendition of "redeemer of Israel," for the opening hymn last Friday. It's been ages since I've heard a good baritone, giving an aspiring altos something to work with. Haha, thank you Elder Hansen. Haha, there's a reason they choose that one for the opening of general conference more often than not. HOW WAS CONFERENCE!? We only watched Elder Holland's talk, which will suffice for holding us over until next week for when translation comes in.

Natasha came to church. She came came came to church!!!!!!! Family, I could cry---I don't think I've ever been quite so excited about an investigator, who is so head-on solid. Vested. Wanting to know for her and her daughter, and the welfare of her family, if this church is what she needs. She came-- early, so she was greeted by the increasing flow of incoming members who would stop and introduce themselves. And, even though she'd just worked the night shift and was exhausted, not even being home yet-- she decided to stay for sacrament meeting. I'll never forget the mutual eye contact that Brother Andrei Markets and I made, me from the piano and him from the sacrament table--- that seemed to say, "SHE'S HEREEE." Hahaha, I couldn't believe it. And, I had the opportunity to climb up the stairs and share my testimony in the comfortable middle of my dearest Russian brothers and sisters. I looked out at the congregation, all 50 pairs of eyes on me--as I began to convey what our Savior means to me. It was not a dry 2 minutes, as I told them all how much I've come to love them--- and how I can't do anything to express how much life-touching good a mission, for Heavenly Father, has done, for me. How much indescribable, blessed joy. Oh, and the tears rolling down Anaitt's, Sister Hancock's, and other's faces--- a foretaste of what I hope forever will be. To understand my love for those people and the mutual conviction of the gospel. No greater gift.

I love you, share the gospel.

Sister Clyde

Pineapple

Wow. Short email this week.

Another slapdash night of planning, phone calls, brushing teeth, and 120 mph heartbeat. Bedside prayer in record time as margin for obedience error is waning is hardly enough to pacify the missionaries before heads hit the pillow. I drifted in and out of sleep for the following few hours, but finally action needed to be taken--- usually meaning putting on a sweatshirt, drinking water, or cracking open a Lithonia. Insomniac sisters mean business. This time, still nothing.

Finally I realized the stuffy room wasn't helping anyone, so I jumped up, twisted the handle, and cracked the window--ready for the fresh breath of 2am night air to flood in. Instead we get something different. The low moan of an injured cat sounded in our sleepy ears--- yet to be joined counts later by 4 other cracking comrades--- when Sister Hancock said she was going to kill someone making her mutual consciousness known. And charity issues. Haha, kidding. So THIS is what goes on around here at night??? The dissonance of the dying cat choir was the final straw. Window got shut back up real fast.

Haha. Good, quick week. Amazing district conference. Wonderful, with all leaders from near and far, including president Schwab and a leader from Ukraine.

Natasha is progressing so so so well!!!!!!!

Things are looking up with our investigator, 14 year old Dash. Ok, there is no way that this notebook will permit to correctly type her name. She knows baptism is RIGHT. She just has some things that are holding her back.

I will never forget the spirit that illuminated that Russian kitchen on Friday night, as her family---- FATHER INCLUDED--- joined the missionaries around the table for French toast, and a discussion about God and His existence.

Wow. I cannot believe how wonderful it was. If my short thrown out words cannot convey it, maybe the video clip that I didn't get of my and Sister's Hancock's wordless elevator hug might do the trick. Pure joy, to see this man finally pull up a chair and offer his thoughts. And encourage his daughter to participate in the gospel discussion, although still not even a member himself, let alone meeting with the missionaries--despite the burning testimony of his wife Cveta and son Grisham. They are the people in the pic back a few months ago around a Christmas tree???

Anyway---I think Michael's conversion, just might be the ticket for his daughter's.

LOVE YOU,

Sister Clyde

Happy Conference!!!!

Limonada

We rounded the street corner in the chilly sunshine after Friday's district meeting. "Hello!" we called to the grandmother, occupied with her charming grandson- both about 20 ft away. A little surprised, as we were sure would be the case. So, we kept the conversation rolling to make light of it. A few more casual questions about weekend weather, etc... when suddenly the grandson's agenda decides to manifest itself a  little more plainly than before. The kid scoops up with his shovel a heap of the snow debris with an expression in his eyes that said "hit the highway," and launches whatever he can at the surprisingly agile sisters, more adept at dodging threats of a toddler than he thought. Three can play at this game. "Come on Sonny, be nice," the grandmother urged, still trying to chat with us. The child continued his revolt, as we endured all of 4 snow firings--before the woman understood it could be used as a way out. "look, he really doesn't like when I talk to stranger," she caved---only empowering him and weakening her future defense as an authority figure. Pity. Salvation anyone? Looks like toddler temper tantrums would be 1-0. She began to laugh. Seeing that the missionaries were retreating due to inclement spouts of weather and receptions of the gospel message.

"Whadduya bet that kid gets a raise in allowance as soon as they're home?" I asked Sister Hancock. Her laugh solidified the suspicion.

Words cannot express how incredible the past week went with regard to a precious pearl named Natasha. This woman, who Sister YOUNG and I met with way back when, has finally come out of the woodwork, after months of us still making the attempt to stay in touch.

Natasha is an interesting woman--always with a look of distress, glitchy eye contact that happens on rare occasion, with dark circles under eyes as she works so much to support her less than perfect family. A mother of three, whose husband is a heavy drinker, is hopeful of discovering truth and getting things right as she enters the later stages of her motherhood-- that is to raise her last daughter differently. This time, "with God."

Natasha words come fast, as she describes minor details about the things and efforts she has made in order to seek out truth, amongst all the other corrupt churches she has come in contact with over the years.

We had 3 lessons with her over the course of this past week, each making leaps and bounds of progress. She prayed in each--- the first, most heart warming last Monday-- as she thanked Heavenly Father that "these girls have not given up on us. Forgotten us. We should and need to talk with them more."

She has been reading the Book of Mormon assignments we've been giving her. She told us on Friday of how she invited Kasusha, her 16 yr old daughter, to pray and read it with her. We finally watched the Restoration film this past week--- and there was nothing more exciting than the endearing scene of Kasusha coming in to sit on her mom's lap, up to the crowded table, to view it with us. And then, to hear her express that she didn't see the point of so many things in so many other churches. How it didn't feel like real, sincere, and committed worship the way her friends at school did certain things.

And then, Natasha re express her desire to be baptized. Here. In this church. After expressing, that after more than a year of meeting with Jehovah's Witnesses, they still had not invited to her join. Just to quietly study and be patient. She asked us why we had been so seemingly hasty- and the spirit guided each of our answers-- if it is right, and one feels that through the help of the Holy Ghost----why wait??

Natasha really, really liked that.

So, May 3rd it is. Which, happened to be the day before her birthday. I'd venture to say rebirth could be a rather fitting birthday present.

I didn't care about the burnt tongue from the tea on the way out----I could not keep quiet as I just gawked at Rustam, our guy friend member, and SIster Hancock, as we headed out and home on Friday---- doing victory dances of shock and disbelief, incredulous joy. WHAT JUST HAPPENED!!!!! ahhahaha, I cannot believe how blessed we are being, to know and see this process. AHHHH!!!

Have a great week!!

Love,

Sister Clyde

You!

So I'm hurryin' on up back to sunday school yesterday-- just dried my hands and about to head out of the bathroom, when one of the babooshkii from the Dachney branch, hair snow-white, comes right on in. She happens to be one of my pals, I just don't know her name, but if you could keep that on the downlow I'd be forever grateful. I hug her and ask how her week went--when she drops in to story mode. So I drop in to courteous listener mode, because I like that kind of thing. Haha this email isn't mapped. 

Apparently she'd been on her way to church that morning. You should know that Saratov is a beautiful post-winter-depression mess in terms of weather conditions:) The sun is shining, the skies are blue, and the streets, sidwalks, and roads are mud mud dirt water and more mud. Along with washed up ice patches of snow still trying to melt. Anyway. Boots not the shiniest they've ever been. In fact, never more atrocious:) But Mom doesn't have to know! Haha--SO this woman. She took a spill on her way to the church, tired, frail, old as she is. Banged up her poor knee. She showed me her coats, skirt, explained they were wet.as.could.be!!! And how, in a jumble, managed to brush herself off and rise to her feet. A woman, hurrying past, gave her one look and threw in her insensitive 2 cents with the words, "you forget wherever you are going and head straight home, clean yourself off!"  

Well, my nameless Russian friend knows better than to consent to the verbalized opinions of inferiority from irrelevant passerby's-- and called back "I most certainly will not!! I have the sacrament to take this morning!!" And continued on her hastened way. Hahaha, what a hero she was to me. Even moreso when she again recapped this woman's attempts to deter her from her righteous goal, with the resolute, "of course I'd never heed that devilish girl." Hahaha. Heehee, my smile seemed to say. On that note--"Scatter Sunshine," sister Clyde's smile seemed to sing as I curtsied and ran out of the bathroom. Best behind-the-scenes pick me up I ever got. 

Companionships and the quality thereof come in alls hapes and sizes--but each and every pair shares one underlying characterisitc---there are two of us. Understandable, the anxiety was of a distant district leader upon the recepit of SIster Clyde's 'just tryin' to spice things up/we are home safe and on time text. Every single night, I send the commonplace, flavorless singular Russian word, pronounced "Doma," which means "at home." Thursday, in a rhyming panic, the addendum my fingers came up with was

"Doma, Doma, home alone-uh!" 

Hahah--the prose part giv ing a somewhat Dr. Seuss-like falre of whimsical apathy, regarding the fact that I was seemingly Sis. Hancock-less. Elder Wall, just beacuse someone cites beloved Christmas babylon doesn't mean you need to call in the big dogs. Zone Leaders-- we're hooommmmeeee!! :)

There was nothing like making our way around the outback apartment buildings, away from town center one a crisp sunny Mid march afternoon. All Russian retirees began to creep out of winter's fast-fading shadow in order to pich a lawn chair and enjoy eachother's company. A few elderly folks stopped us in our tracks, and we had the most pleasant street chat, as we asked if they'd been athletes--and other ears perked up, joined the conversation, at the desire to tell a little of his or her glory days. Some threw in some Ukraine comments that we didn't address, and then we were able to talk about what we were doing there. It was rather charming. I won't ever forget 79 year old Genaddi, with his blue eyes and nice gray trench coat. At first a tease, who didn't take the two american girls seriously. Whose thoughts and opinions softened, and wound up welcoming us back next time he was out to play stickball with the neighbor kids. 

We then caught a glimpse of an upclose Russian wedding!! As guys in tuxes hopped out of decked-out hummers where bridesmaids awaited them outside an apartment building. Thus began the bag of tricks and obstacles that the groom is required to pass through in order to advance up the stairwell and snag his prize of a bride. We saw her, Rapunzel, wave and giggle outisde the window on the stop story, and couldn't help but sign up to be flower girls. Story for next week.

Favorite moments of the week--- the sunshine filling Gallina's kitchen, as we thought two women in Relief Society about the miracle of the Resurreciton--a theme that we so often take for granted--at least I do--since I've heard about it since primary days. We shared Abidadia's glorious take on it in Mos 16--- how Christ is the light and life of the world. It is my favorite. The spirit ever present, as we together sang a colorful version of "He is Risen," and lonely Lioba loved every second, seeing as how her beloved son as fallen ill and passed on at the age of 30. 

Bogdon brought his bud to church a week ago. Meet Danielle, or Daniel is Russian. Um. This kid is due for baptism in a month. 14 years old. Already committed to read the Book of Mormon. Mom already signed his permission sheet. He prayed, although nervous, at the end of yesterday's lesson. Miracles, Moroni 7: 26. 

I just keep having this feeling, that life is a whole lot simpler, when we simply aim to make our will line up with God's. Until there is little to no overlap. No margin for error. I love this gospel so so much.

Have a great week. Call me!!

Love,

Sister Clyde

 

 

Leaf

Hahaha. Email titles ain't comin as naturally as they once were.

Lessons Learned

-Nothing spikes blood pressure in yound and old like trasnfers-the rumors, threats, and hopes thereof. Haha, I think we over anxious sisters and elders have scarred the senior couple Reeds for the duration of their most likely transnfer-less time left in the field.

-Doesn't matter how much faith you have that this time, just might work--it is physically impossible to accurately arrive at any scripture and page destination on the street while wearing gloves. Sister H, those babies have GOT to come off before they wax antsy of waiting, take the book and run. Haha

-If stealthy, it is possible to capture the various displays of meat and pork around the area; clearly a limited time offer going on here. (see photo below)

-As much as you might intend to develop photos, sometimes there's no stopping society from shutting down, in honor of the one and only "Women's Day." March 8th, a time for flowers, chocolate, congratulation, and kisses. This year no exception! Hah, except completely and yes in every way shape and form--maybe. Anyway, could've probably guessed it by the garage door down over the store window that our needed shop was closed---just before we could verbally indicate the fact to each other, we were interrupted by the most tragic lament of a most distraught little boy--small, alone, and crying aloud to voice his despair: "WHAT? CLOSED!! WHY!! Whyyyyyy!!! As he threw his arm in the air to shout at they sky with a box of chocolates in hand- I think I remember laughed, as he kicked the wall, after heavy forehead pressed against the door--and finally in his defeat, set off.

"ооо нет -- зто закрыт???" I asked for clarification.

" Daaaaaa"  he pouttingly revealed, before making for the highway to go sing about it on his Russian harmonica that he DIDN'T MAKE IT IN TIME TO BUY!!!! hahahah, it was the funniest saddest greatest experience.

A very very intense couple of days. Transfer calls came in a WEEK ahead of schedule for all sisters. All week long with nervous thoughts hopes expectations and questions marks for what was to come for my final cycle in the mission field. To be pulled out and train a newbie was a very heavy side of possibility. I had to calm my thoughts after losing a little sleep when sisters came and stayed with us, full of news and inklings to the future since they would be heading up to samara to get Miss Ukrainian Sister Bonja up and outta here due to visa requirements. Talk to them." Wow. She made potatoes, chicken, and pickled tomatoes with bread. Hahah, with tea and jam and do re mi. Roostam came with us, and I will never forget watching this very normal wonderful woman putting a prayer cloth over and around her head, securing and tying it the way one would a bonnet, in order to read aloud Moroni's promise. Something she does before any period of scripture reading.

WAIT I GOTTA GO!!!! LOVE YOU HAVE A GREAT WEEK

SISTER CLYDEEE

Sup

Family family family. Frostbite frostbite frostbite.

Yesterday we talked to the world's most glamorous 60 year old. Such a colorful woman of sparkle, shine, and character. Her name was Valentina, who was promised always to have guardian angel protection from Provoslavni saint Valentine. She believe in going all out for all holidays, and it's household protocol that every kid gets a quantity of balloons equating his or her age, come each new birthday. She puts her hand on her heart for her grandmother, who had 15 children during the war, and treasures her handsome son who she feels looks like a young Schwarzenegger. We explained our church on several different occasions-- and she finally revealed that fear was what kept her from coming to us. Nat as much positive promotion going on around Saratov Russian streets as we'd like.... we detailed sacrament meeting, a time to renew self, and our baptismal covenants while singing hymns, and partaking of bread and water.

"Well, I'll be honest. You don't know how many elderly folks can't take standing up in our dark temple for hours on end... Sitting down on chairs sure sounds nice..."

Valentina, come. But she doesn't want to. YET. So, we offered a prayer, she took down our number, and I helped her collect her shopping bags off the ground. And almost fainted, because the one on the right was filled with 53 potatoes and I though my arm might fall off. Haha, she went her way, she Sister Hancock and I commenced our frostbite survival dance because it had been 33.5 minutes since the last sign of any blood circulation. OWWWW.

This week we had a lesson with cute recent convert Natasha. She showed us her my little pony pictures. Such a good artist!!! At one point Natasha and I said the exact same word at the same time. Sister Hancock calls out, "jinx!!" And then promptly explained that it's what we say when two English speakers simultaneously say the same word. "Oooooo," Natasha and her frosty emerald-eyed grandmother's expressions seemed to say, as they both attempted to pronounce the newly found English entity. "CHEEKS!!" They victoriously cheered.

I give it a B-. Job well done. 

This week we went knocking. A woman saw at the door, thought us JW's. No no, no need to worry. "Ahhh, gotchya. Just a sec." We both sat there, wondering what in the world we were waiting for as she disappeared in to her house for 3 more minutes.

Next thing we knock, she come to the door and offers us a 100 ruble bill.

Mam. Surely you have not taken us for beggars.

 

But, she had.

Hahahah. Take it and run? Nope. We are good sister missionaries. Not much time, I promised I'll write more next week!! Huge men's day celebration of Saturday. So fun to see everything that the members of our branch served up, and the military man who got up and showed us all his world war 2 sketches.

I need to tell you everything that happened at Zone Conference last week. Especially with regard to the two elders who were caught up in the almost kidnapping. I am so sure that Heavenly Father is real, and words cannot describe what their closing testimonies communicated with regard to the near-death experience. I know Heavenly Father lives, and knows and protects his servants.

Have a wonderful week,

Love Sister Clyde

found a funny man like Russian elf who I LOVE and speaks great English hammering away at the piano.

Check This

My fingers did the dialing, as the spirit did the string-pulling. Nothing like the sweet clear echo of a wine glass's finger-traced brim than the sound of Lena the lawyer's lesson-end words; "I had the very thought today--'where in the world is Clyde?? Been years since she gave me a call. I figured-- maybe she went home---and within half an hour I heard the phone ring." :)

VICTORY!!!!

Lessons with her happen only one in a periwinkle moon, due to the fact that they've developed a sort of "Music and the Spoken Word" pattern. Haha, inductively reason as you wish. A few gospel thoughts will be expressed--and then a 5 minute discourse by Lena---and then a calm, cool, spat out Segway "you know, it's funny that you mentioned the world 'love,'-- in fact, that reminds me of a hymn about how we can love more our neighbors," while companion speed shuffles through the pages, Sis Clyde humming starting note, "three, FOUR!!" and all three LDS maidens break out in to Plan B version of "Love at Home. Hahaha, which happens to be more repetitive than I thought. The theme became starkingly apparent on verse #3 of 4--and pretty soon turned in to the call-response section of a rock concert when the lead singer on stage goes;

Schooooooooollll'sssss. OUT! FOR!

Audience: --SUMMER!!!!!

Except it was Lena's living room, missionaries and a member, with a one-man audience of Lena answering every opened ended conditional phrase of her tone deaf "loooovvveeeeeee, at hoooommmmeeeee.

And then us, with controlled clenched stomachs erupting in to giggles after the third or fourth time it happened.

---alright girls, that's enough"

hahahah. I feel like we're just getting started.

And then Lena told us how a woman can know whether or not she and a man would make a good match--not personality match, not talents humour, common interests---but indeed by the scent of his perspiration. Sweat. What?!! EWW.

Needless to say we made the eye contact to signify that it was time for hymn number 2.

Haha. Sorry if that was too much info.

Had a nice week. I love these Russian people so much. The people in my ward have become my brothers and sisters for life. Anaitt and her husband are so warm friendly, funny, and charming. In their living room for Armanian dinner and testimony exchange, or missionary council meeting after church. I never want to say bye. I love Grisha, Maxcim is like our brother. Amazing Zhenya in the man and missionary leader we got to work with in Balikova. Who is the driest wittiest person you ever did see, and passed me a five ruble bill immediately upon meeting, in response to my comment, "that'll be 5 rubles," on the telephone after giving him someone's phone number."

And then that night, telling over the space of 40 minutes how he had gradually and completely resolved to live every facet of the word of wisdom before age 12, without ever even knowing it existed. hahahaha. Just how his taste buds experienced, detested, and vowed that they would never touch THAT specific substance again. It was amazing, and I am so happy for the sisters that are so privileged to work with him and hear him bear testimony on meetings.

Ahhhhh. I love the gospel. I don't have a whole lot of time. Digging in to the Limhi, Zarahemla, middle goodness of Mosiah. So great. Read your scriptures if you want to understand more how Heavenly Father works with His kids. And loves them so incredibly much.

I love you all and miss you,

Have a LOverly week,

Sister CLYDE!!

SOCHIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII

OLYMPIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIICSSS

I WIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIINNNN.

hey hey.

our activity at the church!!! I translated for the lovely Russians to the right of me while Elder and SIster Reed gave their talk on mini acitivni people 

FEB 2

Nothing like subway sandwich lunches on the mission leadership council---in SAMARA. Woot woot ( we were given pressing notice right after transfers and moved right on up on an 8 hour train the next day), while everyone judged the size and taste of the newly-delivered variety of 50. President Schwab asked if anyone had any recent stories, on a more casual note from our more serious discussion. Well, we'd hate to disappoint....

"So there's a backwoods path that Sister H and I often take home when we're in a hurry to make curfew. At one point on the sidewalk is a thick black pipe that stretches right across the middle---we've noticed it on several occasions, and are always sure to give each other a verbal "heads up" when moving swiftly, before smoothly hopping over it while the desert, hills, mountains and vales sing and ring "carry on." Well, it was a chilly frosted night not 2 weeks ago, when two quick-paced sister missionaries could bne spotted from afar across the dark horizon. Movin, movin, movin through the snow, gots to go. Sure enough we reached the sidewalk, but this time with concentration fixed apparently elsewhere---Thoughts got topsy-turvied as our boots catch something, and our bodies are so to say propelled in to pen air, effectively catapulted by the sly slippery black serpent of a notorious pipe from below. "OOF!!!" we seemed to say as we simultaneously hit the ATE IT on the earth. Hahah--mutual looks of "where in the world am I?" and "I'm so glad you're on the ground with me." Hahah, with President and wife completely laughing at the news of the spill.

You can thank us for the no shame in self-deprecation when we're home.

Fast fast week. Mostly in Samara, then shot to Penza еще by train, for immediate exchange with sisters Coleman and Henricksen. Just neat to see how Heavenly Father knows the exact size and slice of what to dish up for a quadruplet bunch of missionaries on an opening ceremony Friday in February. Sister Coleman and I this time were working together---and it sounds like they lived in NJ at one point and can remember Sam and me from our nursery days??) Usually there's plenty of dross to get through, when it comes to all day street conversations......and therefore rejections:)  but, it's all in a wonderful day's work as we are out on the streets to represent Jesus Christ and appreciate just a little bit more what He did and does. I don't know--there was something interesting in this exchange, as Heavenly Father just seemed to opened up the window of opportunity, snap his fingers, and poof, pops the perfect person walking around the corner at drop-second timing. I love picturing that, every time we have a conversation of gold. Sister Coleman and I just laughed together, looking back on the day after coming in 20 minutes early at night due to some good old-fashioned frost bite:) Reminscing about the seemingly perfect situations--of Angelica, a 16 year old who at first had no interest---but then, let the spirit warm her up as she began to randomly tell us of her concerns in life. "I don't know why you would ever choose this town, Penza." Then looked at me and continued, "the devil walks these streets." Whoa. "The sun goes down, it gets dark, and then the violence comes out." She was so stark and serious in expression. Completely unexpected to see a younger girl talk about that kind of thing. And so neat, as 2nd cycle sister coleman was able to bear her testimony about how in our church, she could find safety. Feel safe, and escape the dangers of society, penza, the world. Angelica then insisted that we accompany her a little farther on her walk home, clearly new-found friends in her book. She agreed to drop in to FHE, can't wait to see!!

Then, another couple at night, as well as a former friend that the missionaries had bumped in to. She was speeding home and we joked that she had ample pace for Sochi, and what was she waiting for. Hahah. Something like that, so we stopped and chatted with this here Tatyana for a little. It was nice to have some background conversation before jumping in to our purpose since the allotted time frame doesn't always allow for it. I told her she looked like Liv Tyler, American actress from Lord of the Rings. She was happy to hear it. And then, hear a little more about the gospel. Unfortch she declined to leave her number, insisting that she'd call the next morning since she had our flyer. (New and improved, I might gush.) A little disheartened after the situation, we mutually decided to have faith, saying, "she'll call. she'll call." Haha.

'Twas a sweet experience on the Saturday morning bus ride home through the snowy winter meadows of Russia to receive a text from Penza sisters saying, "Tatyana CALLED!!!!! She's coming to church tomorrow!!!!"

A little faith never hurt anyone:)

Yesterday we were sitting in RS with our baptism-bound investigator Anya in-between us. The teacher is an older, jolly woman with gray hair and a lovely warm winter fleece. All of sudden she starts getting a little flustered and mid-sentence says, "Sisters, everything is bad to me,"  before 3 hopped up to catch her in a chair while fanning her. Hahah, what's uh...goin on here?? We all just sat and observed, as she must have felt faint in the middle of her lesson. She submitted to the sips of water from a plastic cup, but soon enough couldn't take it any longer--- It  was perhaps the oddest thing yet to see her face poke between the nursing arms of her RS sisters in action in order to continue, without skipping a beat, the exact same gospel-topic lesson she had just beforehand truncated. Hahahhaa, I'm not quite sure how many in attendance could take her sincere attempts seriously as she said "the gospel was restored by a prophet in the latter days."   Wait, like don't you need an aspirin or something??? We couldn't help but graciously laugh.

Last night we met a nice young man while sliding in to an apartment stairwell to sit on a FURNACE, warm up, and send in our weekly numbers to our district leader. His name was Eric, and he is from Azaberjhan. He is muslim, and thought it was fantastic that we girls were sporting skirts. Hahah he wants us to call him as soon as we ever have car trouble or someone's getting up in our face. Will do.

Hope you're loving life and 'lympics without me!!!

The Olympics will never not hold place in my heart. How is Bob Costas. Anyone. I am here in Russia so tell him to stop by.

Haha, have a lovely week, keep praying for missionary opportunities!!

Love,

Sister Clyde

FEB

I'd know those bright orange lips anywhere.

Forward was the only direction our feet could hope to take us---the surrounding area void of any substantially stocked bushes, trees, stop signs to hid behind and whimper 'til the coast was clear. We approached the long lost acquaintance from Christmas past--this time, with a strolling sidekick. Yay, looks like this contacting positions calls for Sister Clyde's obligation to do the undoable. That is, entertain the mandatory small chat with this Russian Rouge character, simultaneously masking all indication of very present fear. I stared cooly in to her crystal eyes, ornated with all the eye shadow and liner this side of the Black Sea has to offer--while picturing someone calm, cool, and collected like Joe Nydegger to put me at ease. Except Joe never had the defined ivory cheekbones of a doll and the creamy bright orange lips of an Arabian sunset. AAAH.

"So.... do you have children?.... How's your family???"

Low gasp of a laugh, "а как же!!!" = "I wouldn't picture life without it, How EVAHh NAUGHT???"

And then a little more inquiry as to the whereabouts of each, dancing around the lack of material I actually had---since the gospel is still not something she's drawn to. 

"Well, we'll be running now," she indicated delicately---before stopping dead in sentence tracks to add, "Don't freeze now," before she froze us anyway with the ominous eye contact of mystery and ice.

Gulp.

Then they continued their shuffle away. I turned to the nearest source of sympathy, surely Sister Hancock would understand.

"I'm so scared of her."

Dear Vova, and all other roommates of Russian One Direction---we can't autograph your Book of Mormon.

Elders, go ahead and make your ND jokes about being socially permitted to drink whole milk, as long as you pick up 1.5% kind for us sisters at your stocked grocery store.

Neighbors, thank you for the chance to do our new JUDO jumping jack workout in the chilly cement hallways 

Liodmila, you are my Russian  hero for adding while discussing a recent inactive woman, that it's all the same- no matter how much she might be unintentionally neglected by the ward in any case, it would be no reason to fall away from the church. 

Bogdon, thank you for giving the opening prayer in sacrament meeting yesterday.

As for spraying Sister Clyde with cologne last night when she wasn't looking--- she's not too happy. And I still smell like Bloomingdale.'s Yugh. 

Haha, what a lovely week. Lots of things happening with NEW CYCLE, after an 8 week one. Transfers were juicy--- as there is a war going on in Ukraine right now, so now all Ukrainians and surrounding Eastern European country people are in danger with visa requirements and on the fence, apparently with bags packed should they be pulled out---missionaries included. So, we are on the edge as a mission and praying that the three main ones can stay since they are visa-less. Sister Hancock and I are still together for the time being----- told to "enjoy the time we have remaining together," seeing that delayed MTC visas may come in any week, meaning new missionaries and needed trainers from the sister pool. Hmm. We're nervous, concerned, excited, and hopeful. 

I don't got no time, so I will copy and paste what I shot to my president already today

This has been a good week, as the Lord continues to teach us things together as a companionship, and separately as individuals. There have perhaps been few moments when I have experienced the amount of faith, hope, excitement, and enthusiasm I had for my calling and the work to be done here than when, for the first time, we were let in to the home of recent convert and brother forever, Bogdon. The little boy you've met on a few occasions. His mother is less active, baptized 14 years ago. We had a meeting with the Reeds, and with their good help, encouraged him to invite his mother to attend sacrament meeting with him again. He shyly, hopefully said he'd try.
And then, Sunday night came, and I gave him the call, wondering if it'd be alright to stop by (as it hasn't been in the past.) At first he turned it down, surely doubtful as to how his mother would react, (who is married to a nonmember man who apparently hasn't been super supportive of the mother attending church). Two minutes later, in the middle of a conversation, my phone rang again, Bogdon telling us to be over in 15 minutes.

So, we were there sharp.
Wow, Yulia the mother invited us in. Usually quiet, like she was at his baptism, was more talkative and warm. She wanted us to sit down and eat the sandwiches they'd quickly prepared. She began asking questions about missionaries, missionary life, all sorts of things-- with, I'm sure, astonished Bogdon sitting and watching all mystery unfold--as his shy, less active mother befriended the two sisters who he'd come to know so much over the past few months. We eventually were able to suggest and invite her back to church. "I've been thinking about it--and wanting to," was her response. I wanted to die of happiness, to imagine this little boy, who weekly boards a bus alone to faithfully show up, surrounded by others who have family support. 
Bogdon, for quite possibly the first time vocally and in front of family members, offered the closing prayer. I can't imagine the feelings and thoughts wiring between this mother and son. I couldn't stop gushing after we'd left the apartment. President, I am so excited about this little priesthood holder-- whose future is so, so so bright---and would and WILL BE so much more, when he has a mother, and younger brother accompanying him to church. It was a miracle. This is what the gospel is all about.

Dasha, Anya still working towards baptism!!! 

'Twas rathuh cold this past week:) If the new accumlating collection of gloves, scarves, moo moos, and hats in our front hallway THROWN at us by all Russian church members isn't indication enough, I don't know what is.

Love you all!!!!

Sister Clyde

One of my favorite!! With all of these incredbile people during the children's primary program!!!

EVGENNIYA the woman in SORCECOR ROBES that I always bring up totally snuck in on the left!!!! hahahahah

You!

Finally starting to understanding the phrase, the "Frozen Chosen." 

Phew, after denied entry into 3 different pink apartment buildings, Sister Hancock, Andrei and I trudged quietly through the neighborhood in to the cozy comfort of January snow. It was like the perfect page of "Goodnight Moon," with nothing but black white and gray, a splash of Valentine pink, and a bowl of mush. We finally found the right address of new Nina. We hit the doorbell--"Girls, I'm watchin' a film"--"just 15 minutes, that's all," before she yielded and pushed the domophone button to open the building door. We walked in to the hallway and began to de-dress, when Nina's admonitions began. She had a 100 (yes, one century) year old mother waiting in the next room, who would most definitely be nagging on Nina for hosting this episode of nonsense. Nina was 65+, you know. You think she'd be allowed to have a playdate by now without being grounded afterwards. Haha, and we had every intention of sharing the lesson we'd come to teach. Somehow in the midst of repeated lament that she was never gonna hear the end of this, Nina consented to let us pray and sing-- the 100 year old mother mumbling the entire time. Just when we though we'd have room for spiritual thought, the plug got pulled and Nina said, "no time for tea? No time for YOU." Well, we would feign call this pow-wow a lesson without doctrine and one more prayer-- so missionary matters called for desperate meaures. Nina agreed to one more prayer by SIster Hancock. We panically folded our arms and I used my native tongue to remind her of the mandatory multi-task at hand--

"DOCTRINE," I called to her from across the room, her surprised, determined eye contact reading "ROGER THAT," as her head bowed and she started in Russian. Hahaha, had to keep my laughing quiet as she wove through Restoration truths to Plan of Salvation principles-wondering whether emphasis on tithing or church auxiliaries would be next. Haha--nothing like perfoming under pressure. Gold medal goes to Sister Hancock.

Speaking of which, someone better be recording every important olympic moment. That includes all events on ice minus curling, add skiing and snowboarding. One day there will be time. maybe. Jane do it. 

So we have felt a stronger bond with the elders, as we've all collectively become a quadruplet pack of parents to the new senior couple. haha, helping the cautious, fantastic Reeds get from point A to point B in their refiner's fire, known as FROSTED WINDOWS on public transport. hahah, how are they EVER going to memorize the bus stops and when to exit when they don't know what the area looks like, let alone how to ask ANYONE Russian for help!!? It's been amusing to share with the elders. Elder Tippetts made a small batch of brownies to distribute to us and them. On Friday he and Elder Wixom shared with us the secret to getting baked goods back in return. "So honestly, you just bake something small and give it to Sister Reed in a large case of tupperware..... and she'll just completely fill it in return."

Brilliant.

"So we'll just send on over two or three cookies in a crockpot??" I asked with all sincerity.

hahah the laughing approval said yes. 

Friday night made for some miracle contacting before our lesson with former-investigator Anya. Who, loves men, and has recommitted herself to a March 1st baptism!!! Sister Hancock and I were in the water, not grabbing on to much, when finally the opportune moment came. Paddle, paddle, paddle, RIIIDDDEEEE. We rode that wave all the way down the street- talking and walking with the world's most wonderful couple. An older man and woman-- me in the front with Natalya. We finally got to thoughts of belief, and I asked if she believed in God. "Yes, but here," pointing to her head,  "just not here," pointing to her heart. Then explained the reality of soviet times, being raised with the firm decree that God is not. And then the world being turned upside down and He suddenly was. I told her that that was the first time I'd ever heard anything like that in Russia. We talked about principles in our faith, that she found missing amongst the inconsistent onces in her orthodox one. Really neat.

Amazing lesson with the Reeds and Tatyana, a less-active. Who, usually hardened, allowed her heart to melt by that presence, without a second thought for the language barrier. She cried, as she talked about missing her two dead sons and desire to finish long-lost motivation to finish the temple work. She agreed to come to church. We finally got out of that small wooden house, and headed back in the snowy freezing darkness, and I closed my eyes and prayerfully thanked Heavenly Father for the beauty of this mission, tearfully expressing the purest joy I am allowed to feel on this mission and the richness of these experiences.

We had an amazing zone training on Friday. Sister Hancock and I got to present part of it. We just felt like the missionaries needed to be inspired, reminded. I was able to share a very real personal analogy that I'd love to share with you in person. Raincheck? 

Love you all, have a greaT week,

Love,

Sister Clyde

Yeh

Go, go, go---oh wait? Family photo by the Christmas tree? Ok, make it quick--now we're shifting poses so all present can get their good side? Alright, thanks so much0---what's that, one last shot down the hallway, into the sutdy, and in front of teh giant World Map---neckscratch, hastening, if you insist...quick, point to America and they'll claim the Motherland---"cheese." Now RUN. Don't care if you can't run in the elevator to get home faster---run anyway. Run through the snow, through the ice, through the---

what's THIS??

And yet more pressing...who decided to plant Lake Tahoe in the middle of Saratov.

Suddenly all vested hope of making the bus stop in time vanished in to the frostbitten air as the biggest pond of frozen glacier enveloped our only path---and was only processed as endangered boots had already trudged 3 erroneously deadly steps in to it--a stride and a half = a week and a half in bed with a headcold. Haha, mutual shrieks of fright and thrill as thoughts short-circuited in panic and Sister Clyde went DOWN. (We most definitely DO NOT have time for this). Haha, you're welcome to the world for the comic relief-- and PS, pretty sure we got the ab workout of our lives as we attempted to get up and resume the Arctic marathon the entire way to the finish. 

Don't worry- I'm alive we're alive we're good, it's good.

Wow-- could you believe the magic view of looking out in to the vast Russian midnight purple sky as we crossed the barren, frozen snowy tundra horizon with Makcim to our late night lesson with Alan?? Wow, I haven't seen stars that magnificent in a long long time. And then the far off smoke stack, heaving thick, rich, beautiful puffs in to the portrait of a scene. Mesmerizing. 

Little time left-- but nothing beats the Russian primary program--with a grand total of 3 child participants---and then the ranks improved by 66% increase as sister missionaries were full-blown expected to get up every other 2 minutes to sprint down the chapel and perform in the background to give the child choir some kind of soprano/baritone effect. Just didn't wanna be raining on the youngsters parade or something. Haha- at least it gave us the happy chance to enjoy watching Elder Wixom's hair turn gray as he followed creepy investigator Ralf all over the back half of the chapel, monitoring his behavior when within the same square mile of sister missionaries. hahaha, Sister Hancock and I giggled about that this morning.

Dasha is becoming our friend!!! She is opening up more and more. We had the most successful lesson at their house with funny Cvetlana, her mother, and Grisha-- the wonderful autistic boy who shoots us the flirtiest looks in sacrament meeting--and every other hour of the block. We all sang a hymn around their REAL family piano, I played--and it felt like something out of the perfect Christmas story book. And then we reminded her about baptism yesterday after reading choice verses in Mosiah 18 and then Dasha offering, VOLUNTARILY, answers she received to prayers over the week so that her dad would be protected--just moments before getting in a serious car accident. We were so happy she had opened up. She is starting to feel more like our sister, as we dropped off a note and banana bread for her last week. (Much better with added marshmallows- apparently endorsed with Martha Stewart's stamp of approval) Yum. 

Last night---open up your DOOR, Zinaeeda--cuz here we come-- with 3 men, too. No, not the two last week with whom we watched the Restoration film with at the branch building in order to put off their cake and wine. Hahha, guess that's what we get for busting and bringing in for repair 7 pairs of boots at once. Hhaha, we most certainly AVOIDED the wine. But anyway- this lesson with Borees and Nikolia was incredbile. WOw-- and the theme was thrown out on the spiritual fly as I welcomed everyone to the meeting, and then the words- prayer and answerers to it spilled out. Haha-- and the spirit was so so so so so so strong-- as Boris understood. UNDERSTOOD!!! Jarom 1:4, D&C 88:63, Luke 18:1-- all amazing things to read if you are thinking about the quality of your prayers as of late. Learning more and more about that with each passing day.

Yesterday poor little Valentina looked up in confusion, as an unexpected winter coat crashed on to her from the lofty coatrack-- hahaha, I look over my shoulder to find her requesting that | assist her in restoring it to its proper place---on the hook, as opposed to her slumped, 80 year old back, neck, and head. Hahaha, smiling the whole time.

BAPTISM ON SATURDAY, and ANTON drove us, and I prayed 3 times that we would LIVE!!! hahaha, and we made it-- felt like trying to stop a wedding. There's another one this week and he wants to COME. And he told me-- in an awkward, sweet, clearly misunderstood way, that he'd been wanting Sister Clyde to baptize him. 

Awwwww!!!!! 

----We've got priesthood origin work to do. Hahaha. 

Have a great week!! The new senior couple is here, from Hurricane UT!! We've all been helphing them move and get settled in to their new foreign world! They are the REEDS, and they are doing great.

Love

Sister CLYde

Old New Year

Maybe it might help to paint the picture of a few characters to be encountered on the path of a Saratov missionary. 

After passing the aparment dumpsters and peering out on to Prospect Ctroitelli, it's not uncommon to find little Larissa, busy about her sidewalk sweeping. Always with an orange vest, latex gloves, and a whimsical mood equivilent to Amy Adams's "Giselle." Over age 55, Larissa never married and works hard for her living,l never allowing wordly cares to rob her, or those she greets, of teh happy magic to be found in each day. Sometimes I think she might float away when she cheerfully assures us she hasn't time to meet:)

Ever-loyal Andrei, ready to lend a missionary hand-- requires no less than  4 already existing movie characters to do his own justice. Take the eccentircity of "A Series of Misfortunate Events's" Count Oloff, the temping peculiarity of the Cheshire Cat and Mad Hatter combined--the chilling long-limbed mysertery of Jack from "Nightmare Before Christmas," and confusing splendour or Willy Wonka, right after he slapstick tumbles on to the Chocolate Favorty's red carpet premiere. 

And then, irreplaceable President Yemsove-- with his quiet magic touch to any sacrament meeting he presides at. Little hair on the head, perfectly round glasses, and a sensibly humble voice that could narrarate any documentary worth recommending to someone else. He fell in love with his current happy wife in the temple a year ago-- and still at age 60, has a happy sense of charm left in him as he holds her hand, and winks at the greeting sister missionaries. Haha. Yesterday he bore testimony about how, although many claim across the pulpit, "I love you" to all in the congregation, it would be ever more fitting to say "Brothers and sisters, it seems to me that I love you." And then when in to vivid detail about what it means to truly love a person-- to know him, personally, to an extent--and then, to help him and serve him. He talked about Christ, the love He has for others. And then, at the climactic part of his talk, when the room became more reverent than already 'twas, President Yemsove said, addressing each one of us, "Brothers and Sisters....." and we all waiting--- "it seems, to me, that I love you." 

With beautiful, trusted sincerity in each and every word. Smiles of happy satisfaction spread across the chapel. Haha, a choice moment indeed. 

We are still working with Dasha and Nadya with regard to upcoming baptismal dates. They are younger girls--both 14 and thereof probably perfectly suitable for Philip and Henry. You've got 2 years to learn and understand Russian in time for birthday #16:) It's clear that they are still young and a little fearful of a lifelong commitment. But, we had a wonderful lesson with Dasha on saturday at her house--where she and her funny brother Grisha had arranged, in a heap of a panic, four cups of poured and sugared- tea, along with a small plate of neatly arranged Russian pryianniki cookies. hahah, quite quaint to find it neatly arranged on the table. We simply read from the Book of Mormon, discussed the prinicples in first Nephi, read a verse about baptism-and closed, instead of pressuring her by re-extending the commitment. I think she was pleasantly surprised-- as she looked at my family photo album, and asked for quick help on her English homework. We couldn't help laughign at the rather pessimistic phrases in need of correction, all along the lines of.

1. I don't trust those who lie to me more than once.

2. He avoided caring about those who didn't care for him. 

3. She stopped visiting him after he stole her pocket change.

Hahahah, why the Russian gloom in foreign language learning?? 

Great lesson in the park yesterday-- mind you, freezing!!!! since this here Nikolai still turns down invitations to meet at our prayer house. Well, he brought a friend, names BORIS. Properly pronounced in Russian, Bahreese, sorry to disappoint family. Anyway-- Boris was pretty excited as he listtened to the story of the Restoration, and read the promise in the BOM--before digging in and actually looking up the references!! It was so neat and refreshing as it was clear he trusted in the promise. We hope to meet with him again!!

So my coat nametag busted again. Sister Hancock and I have tried to come up with all the creative alternatives we could muster. Hmm. One of them, her idea-- to duct tape russian coins to the back of the nametag, and continue using the other half of an extra tag magnet, hoping the force might be strong enough through the fabric. Ehh Ehh. We did it in a frenzy right before church, while I held the tape and she arranged the money on the tag. "This is resourceful," she optimistically observed," before Sister Clyde added in similar tone, "This is ree----diculous:)" Hahaha, photos attached. 

Wow, reading today in Matthew 10:28, about how Christ admonishes his apostles to not fear those who might hurt them, causing them physical harm, but he who might cause harm to their body AND soul. It was so clear and interesting, that he warned them of the many tactics and motives of the adversary-- who might so fully, and capably, try to bother, stop, inhibit the Lord's servants. Discouragement, contention between companions--also family, friends, investigators-- temptation to question our testimonies and doubt our faith. It's been interesting to understand more how real the adversary's power can be-- and how noble and more powerful God and the power of His spirit really are. 

Hey!! Keep going with member missionary work!! Make your "game plans" as Elder Nielsen referred to in last General Conference. And DO it!! Thanks for everything, hope you're all safe, happy, and ever-learning.

Love,

Sister Clyde