...I have officially survived my first day at the MTC...and not only did I survive, I loved it! To be honest, it feels a lot like EFY, although I'm sure that will change very soon. :) The day was filled with classes, devotionals, and scripture study. I feel like I've learned so much already, and can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.
When it comes to companions, I lucked out! Her name is Sister Currie, and she is so much fun! She's about 4'10", so I tower above her...but we get along really well. She is also from Utah, Elkridge, specifically. But she has a fun sense of humor, is really relatable, and thinks my jokes are funny (she laughs at them, at least :). Already, we've gotten good at bouncing our thoughts and ideas off each other, and I think I will learn a lot from her. We live with two other sisters: Sister Olsen, and Sister Boring (yes, boring). We all end up as a pretty silly group once we're in our dorms for the night, but they have a strong spirit about them and I feel blessed to serve with them.
Our Elders are great. I got to meet Elder Wickern from Twin Falls, and we've already become good friends. Elder De Costa is from Hawaii and is blind in one eye, and BECAUSE of that, can't see me looking at his cute face in class. ;) But, shhh...don't tell.
It's funny to be Elders and Sisters now, rather than guys and girls. Our mission president says, "you are not guys, you are Elders. The guys are at home dating your girlfriends." :) It's nice that even though we are taking things seriously, everyone keeps a fun sense of humor.
I forgot to mention, all the people I've mentioned will be serving in Ventura with me, so it's nice that I'm making friends. Courtney Williams is in my zone, but is serving in Salem, Oregon. It's been fun to see her, though!
We've already taught three "investigators." To be honest, I don't know if they're real or not. My logic says they aren't, but every situation seems so real, and I feel a love and connection with each of them, that I just keep thinking, this MUST be real. I honestly can't wait to get out there and meet the people of Ventura.
I'm definitely missing you, trust me, but I know that my work is here right now. Our mission president shared a scripture with us in Matthew 19:29, to ease any homesickness. It reads, "And everyone that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life." I know that a year and a half is a long time to give up your favorite daughter. :) But, I know that you will be blessed, and that Heavenly Father is mindful of you.
...My P-day will be Tuesday, so that's probably when you'll hear from me next. Send the family love and hugs for me.
♥ Sister Shay Shay
