Throwdown of Christmas

This Christmas was one of my favorites!  We did so many great things.  Not only did we enjoy it with members and missionaries, we were in the service of our Lord, and that is what makes Christmas worth it!

We thought that we weren't going to have anywhere to go Christmas Eve, but luckily the Elders are awesome and found a home for all the missionaries in Cipo 2.  All 8 of us missionaries went to a members home, made Tacos (yes, I think I cried I was so happy), had a little FHE, and then opened a little present from them.  They were so sweet!  I just love them!  In Argentina they stay up until midnight then right at midnight open all their presents.  We didn't get to stay out til midnight of course, but we were up until then and we got to watch the fireworks that were outside!  It was so fun!  The traditions here are awesome.  But, I did miss sleeping in the fort I have to admit :)

Before celebrating at the members house, we made Gingerbread cookies (thanks to the best family in the world..and yes, they were delicious..and yes, maybe I wanted to cry at how good they were).  Also, me and my companion had a feeling we had to go visit this family we don't know but saw on the street.  We threw together a little card and some little gifts and took the bus to Fernandez Oro and visited this family.  They were so happy.  The 2 girls were quick to open the CTR rings and said that they would be using the pencils in school.  It's little things like that where I can feel of the Saviors love for all people here in Argentina.  That is one thing I love.  I can feel the love for each and every child of God here.  It's such a great feeling.

Mom, thank you so so so much for the stocking and all the presents I got.  I am so blessed to have a family that is supportive.  I know I say that every email, but I mean it.  My companion was overly excited to receive a present and the PJ's.  We LOVE THEM!  We couldn't stop wearing them!  Every night we go to bed matching  But the funny thing is she is short and I am tall and they are the same size..so if you can get guessing, hers is the right length and mine is riding a little high for pictures.  HA!  So funny!  But I love it!!

Christmas morning we got to sleep in until 8.  WOOOO!  But sadly I obviously woke up at 6:30 out of habit.  Luckily I got back to sleep.  We opened our presents and just loved every minute of it!  First of all.  How incredible was my stocking?  SO incredible!  Thank you so much mom.  I was laughing so hard at the Photo Album.  You are all way too cool.  HA!  I have a recording that I will try and send.

Christmas we spent at the Church.  All the missionaries.  We had a slip n slide, water games, played soccer, and then a mix of soccer and football, and then lots of circle games!  We had such a blast!  It's a Christmas I will never forget.  Full of fun, laughter, and service!

Also, we had a little Christmas party with Hna Lovell and President.  We had a white elephant exchange and it was great because my companion came home with P90x...but sadly our DVD player is broken.  So we are praying even more earnestly so we can get our pension in Oro. Ha!

This week I was studying a little more about Jesus Christ and his life.  I was reading about the Atonement and came across a scripture that says (mom look it up because I don't have my scriptures and I can't remember the perfect wording..) but it says when Christ was full of agony, he prayed more fervently.  Or, in other words, when Christ felt like he couldn't do it any more he prayed with more power.  How beautiful is that!?  I applied this to my life and especially in my mission. When I feel like I can't do anymore or I can't give anymore, am I using more strength to overcome?  How often do give up when we feel like we can't do it anymore?  Christ is our ultimate example, and our goal is to be like Him.  So, that is one thing I am striving to work on.  When you feel like giving up, work harder.  I hope you all can apply this to your lives as well.

I know that Christ lives.  I know that He is our Savior and Redeemer.  I know that only through Him we an be saved.  And thanks to the Atonement we can feel joy and peace in our lives.  I know He is always there to comfort us and knows us all.  Remember Him every day and you will be filled with his love.

Hope you have the most amazing NEW YEAR!

Distfruten!

Shoutouts:
Shout out to Bishop Fox and family for the Ensign and Christmas card! :)
Shout out to CREWWWWW!  HAPPY BIRTHDAY BUDDY!! :)  9 years old!  WOW!
Shout out to Diane Montano for the email!  Miss you girl.  Hope all is holding up in Texas!

The Meaning of Christmas

I just want to say it was so good to talk with you all for Christmas.  Even though I had to call early, it was still the best Christmas present I have ever received!  I couldn't be more proud to say I am part of the most amazing family! :)

Well, Christmas is in about 2 days (totally freaking out right now).  But, it doesn't quite feel the same.  There are no Christmas lights, no snow, and no Christmas music in the stores.  But no matter what country I am in, the meaning of Christmas will always be the same.  It's not all about the lights, presents, and music.  It's about remembering the birth of the one who gave us hope.  Without our Savior Jesus Christ there would be no way possible for us to return to live in heaven again.  One thing I have learned on the mission during this Christmas season is there is no better feeling than to serve those around you.  Service is the true happiness.  Now, that is my type of fun :) Ha!

For my Christmas gift to you, I have made a list of some of my greatest Christmas memories.

---  I remember the first year we did the "Jesus Box".  I was young and didn't understand the meaning of Christmas.  After reading all the gifts that we gave to Jesus on Christmas I felt my testimony and love for Him grow.
--Traveling to Alabama for Christmas to spend with Grandma and Papa.  I remember our family taking time in the night to finish the Book of Mormon.  This moment I learned what is most important in life.
--One year I was Mary and Brent was the donkey.  I think after that year my role as Mary was taken by somebody much smaller ;)
--Making a fort every year!  And about 75% of the years, the fort fell down in the middle of the night.
--Last Christmas going sledding with the family behind our house.  Somehow it ended up bad and Dad sent Jackson home...ha!!
--Drinking orange juice in the morning before we can see all the presents.  (This tradition everyone asks, "why"?  My response is always the same:  "Because it's a tradition, I don't know why".)
--THE STICKY BUNS!!
--Temple Square lights with the family.  And dad trying to take 1000 pictures. ha!!
--One year waiting for Santa to come but I couldn't sleep because Dad and the uncles were busy playing Halo all night....hmmm.
--Dropping off presents to a family who didn't have much with the young men and women in the ward, and then watching watching their faces light up and cry as we sang hymns.
--Building snowmen in the front yard and trying to make it all cute with carrots, scarves, and no leaves...
--Hot Chocolate, Apple Cider, Bread Bowls, the list goes on.
--Choosing Sub-for Santa every year and then for family night going to pick out the gifts together.  I remember being so embarrassed taking pictures so we could send them to pap in the middle of the store.  Humiliation.
--Singing "Once in Royal David's City"..all seven verses with the family.
--Trying to guess the Christmas present from Grandma and Grandpa Bird every year...but always knowing that the family calendar will be included :)
--Last but not least, my favorite memory has to be spending Christmas with the people I love most.  Hope you all enjoy Christmas back home in good old Highland Utah.  Enjoy the time together! :)

Well, there you have it.  A few of my greatest memories during Christmas time!  I am so lucky to have a family that knows the true meaning of Christmas and who has taught me to serve others especially during this season.  I will never forget it!

Okay, one last quick story about something I did yesterday to bring the Christmas spirit.  We were sitting on the bus at around 8:45 traveling home to our apartment.  A mom and her 2 kids sat down in front of us.  One of the little girls turned and smiled at me.  I reached into my bag and pulled out two HLJ rings.  I leaned over the bar and told her I had a gift for her.  I explained what the rings were and then had her promise she would always choose the right.  She promised, smiled, and then hurried to give her sister the other ring.  They quickly opened them up and put them on their fingers.  The mom then leaned over and asked "What does HLJ stand for?"  I explained and she thought that was so sweet.

I leaned over the bar and showed the girl that I have a ring as well, but it is in English CTR.  We said our "chaos" and our "Feliz Navidads" and then hopped off the bus with grins on our faces.  It's little things like this that make my heart happy.

This past Sunday I got to explain to 2 girls ages 6 and 8 who Jesus Christ is and why we celebrate Christmas.  I hope you all remember our Savior and what He did for us this Christmas season!

Love you all!!
FELIZ NAVIDAD!

Hermana McChesney

Shoutouts:
-- Cami Fox FOR GETTING ENGAGED!  Ah, your ring is stunning!
-- Lauren Eastman FOR GETTING CALLED TO SERVE IN NEW YORK, NY!! Seriously couldn't be a call more perfect for you.

                                          Yes, I drink at least 6 of these water bottles a day!

                                              The 4 leaf clover I found.  Lucky me!!

Spiritual High, beware. Missionary Mode.

Hope everyone is having the most amazing day today, and that you are enjoying the snow and Christmas season.  It's a solid 40 degrees here..aka 104 degrees in Fahrenheit.  Yeah.  I about die every time I walk outside, but it's great.  I'm super excited to spend my first Christmas here in Argentina.

This week flew by.  Actually, to be honest, all the weeks are flying by.  Each day I find myself thinking "there isn't enough time to do everything."  There are so many people I need to visit and there are not enough hours in a day.  I can't wait til Heaven where there is not such thing as time. HA!

This week was fantastic.  Truly so many miracles.  We changed our schedule this week and we are keeping President updated so we can see if we are going to change it for the whole mission.  As of only changing it for one week, we saw so many miracles.  Let me explain a couple:

Remember the family we found?  We had a lesson with her and her children.  Somehow we got on the topic of Examples, and Jesus Christ, and Baptism.  We invited her to be baptized with her daughter and she said, "That is something I would like to do one day"...she felt as if the date was a little soon..but would like to work towards baptism.  Miracle! Miracle! Miracle!!  Can't wait to see where things will go with them.

Thursday we had a "tsunami" with members and missionaries.  They were so nice to help us out and find references and then pass out Book of Mormons.  We passed out around 7 copies.  Yeah!    We also were able to locate a less active family and had a great meeting with them and then invited them to church.

Sunday comes around and guess what?  We get a message from one of the  24 year old sons.  He said he wanted to come to church but doesn't want to feel uncomfortable, so he wanted to know when we would be there.  We set arrangements so we could meet him outside of the church.  We were just ecstatic all morning waiting for church!  It was just the happiest moment ever!!!  It doesn't matter if it is an new investigator or a less active coming back.  It feels the same!  (Total missionary I know...ha!  Truly, though, it's so exciting..I hope you all have the same excitement as me.)

So, we were waiting for him and the collectivo didn't pass until after sacrament meeting started, so we were scared he wouldn't make it for the sacrament.  He ended up coming off the collectivo, without a shirt on, walking towards the chapel with his sunglasses on.  I was so worried he didn't have a shirt and he was going to sit in church shirtless.  Me and my companion just stared and said..."I can't believe this" or in Spanish, "No puedo creer".  Luckily he whipped out a shirt and put it on just seconds before walking into church.  Ha!  Seriously died.  He stayed for the whole block though!  YAY! :)  Miracles!  He is going to be the best example for his family!

I have been reading from the Liahona all of the General Conference talks.  I realize that I now understand about 90% of what I am reading.  YAY!  One thing I had been thinking about applies to all of you.  During your FHE you could try and focus on one of the points in Preach My Gospel.  Just one heading each week.  It will help all of you (especially my little brothers) feel comfortable with the doctrine of the church and also with sharing messages with friends.  Just an idea :)

We sometimes don't know what we are doing or where we are going, or how we are going to share a gospel principle with a friend.  But, we need to take the steps and know that we will be guided by the Lord.  I invite you all, whoever you may be, to remember that the Lord is our guide.  I have seen Him guide me each day and I can testify that He, too, will guide you if you allow Him!

MERRY CHRISTMAS.  FELIZ NAVIDAD.
Hermana McChesney

Shoutouts:
--Shout out to Jean Smith for the letter and book.  Truly made my whole day!  I loved the Christmas story of Christ and also the photo of your little grandchild.  She is absolutely ADORABLE!
--Shout out to Dillon and Emma this week.  Wedding!! YAY!! :)  Hope somebody sends me pictures...
--Shout out to Tommy Nelson for the letter, too.  Good to see he is serving a mission in Argentina, also!!
--Shout out to Stephy Cat for the letter and Kendal7Steph for the email!  Miss you cats!
--Shout out to Taylor Swift for turning 24 on December 13.  I found a 4 leaf clover this day..so that was probably the best thing ever! ha!

Finding in Oro

Good morning everybody.  The fact is that it's afternoon here, but I still know it's morning there, so, like stated previously...GOOD MORNING! :)

This week was great!  I love this work, can I just say that?  Things have been so great!  I don't really know why...I think it's because we have this desire to work hard and with this desire we are being blessed with blessings that I never thought were possible!

This week we didn't place any baptismal dates and we didn't have anyone at church.  Still, I would like to say that this week was probably our most successful week in Fernandez Oro. We had the goal and desire to find a family on Tuesday.  We had this desire and took the steps to make this desire come true.  We prayed hard to find a family to teach because that is something that we really want.  As we traveled to Fernandez Oro...we not only found 1 family, but THREE FAMILIES!  This is no lie.  I wouldn't lie about this, actually, I wouldn't like about anything, but not the point.  We really found 3 families.  Each of them are so prepared!

One day, as we were walking the streets in Oro, I had to use the bathroom, again.  It's a usual thing that happens in Oro.  There are no public bathrooms so the only way to go is to ask somebody if they know where we can find a bathroom and usually they let us into their home :)  We asked this lady we saw on the street, and she kindly walked us back to her home.  She told us that her son was in jail and that she was looking for the best for her family.  We bore testimony of the family, and how one of the reasons I am on the mission is to bring others the same happiness that I have in my family.  She loved it!  She invited us over to learn more.  We have also seen her 3 times this week.  We haven't had time to have a lesson with her yet, just to stop by and invite her to activities.  However, Wednesday morning we have a set lesson.  YAY!  She is so excited!  She also has a daughter that wants to listen in on the lessons.  AH!  I'm just dying.  These people are so awesome!!

Oh, good news.  Me and my companion are the guinea pigs for President.  We are the experiment for ALL the mission.  Yeah, pressure!  AHH!  We are changing our study schedule so we can work in the morning, study in the afternoon during siesta hours, and then work again in the evening.  We are so excited!  If we have success, President is going to change it for the WHOLE mission.  So, we are excited to see how things go!  Wish us luck!!

Love you all :)  Best wishes to you!

Hermana McChesney

                                                       Happy 6 months to me!!

Conference with Elder Romeo de la Sesenta

Estaba pensando, "you quiero escribir TODO de esta carta en Castillano", pero, I don't think you'd like that very much ;)

So this week was great.  A lot of great things happened actually!  We are still unfortunately living in Cipolletti, and have not yet moved into our apartment in Fernandez Oro.  We have been using a lot of money traveling every day.  Luckily, I talked to President and it is all reintegros.

We had some great lessons in Fernandez Oro this week.  We had a referral from the one member there.  The investigator was a little hesitant at firs but sure enough she let us in and as I said the opening prayer and began teaching, she started to cry the whole time.  She has had a lot of hurt and we talked about the love of Jesus Christ, his Atonement, Prayer, and pretty much everything that she needed to hear.  She was such a sweetheart.  We are hoping for good things from her. We also talked to her husband and he wants to listen, too.  YAY!  Miracles truly happen every day.

Also, NOTE TO SELF:  Always bring toilet paper.  I didn't realize that people here don't have any.

We had interviews this week and a conference with Elder Romeo de la Sesenta (member or the 2nd quorum of the seventy).  Elder Romeo did a great job.  We learned a lot about convincing to convert and convert to convince.  I never liked the word "convince"...but I love how he described it!  We do need to convince our investigators, but only through the Holy Ghost can we.  He also talked about using the Book of Mormon more.  That is one thing I have been stressing in my study.  KNOW THE BOOK OF MORMON!

Another great lesson I learned was from President Lovell:  Sometimes we aren't going to know what we are doing or where we are supposed to go, but we can compare this story to Nephi.  Nephi went to try and get the plates 2 times, and on the 3rd time he had no idea what he was going to do, but he kept on taking the steps.  We need to have faith to take the steps.  As long as we take the first step and show to our Heavenly Father that we are dedicated and have faith, he will lead us.

Through taking the steps, we found many more people that are prepared for the gospel.  While waiting for the collectivo, this lady just asked us to come to her home and teach her because one day missionaries served her and she would like to hear what we have to say.  She said, "I know that you are here to teach people and so I need to listen."  Crazy, no?  We had many other experiences like that this week.  WOO!!  Can't wait to just live in the area now!

I am so lucky to have a companion who wants to work and wants to find those people who are ready and prepared.  Its' so great!  We have a lot of great ideas.

Hope all of you had a great Thanksgiving.  My Thanksgiving was the Conference, and then afterwards, our Almuerzo fell through so we went to a church and cooked Milanesas and Papas (just like every other day..)  It was good, but I must say that I missed my stuffing. ;)

Look for opportunities to serve.  I invite you all to invite a non-member friend to the Church Christmas activity.  I promise.  You won't regret it :)

Dream big and don't forget to pray!!

Con amor,
Hermana McChesney

Shoutouts:
Shout out to Kayla Dollar..I am serving in the same mission as one of your friends.  Last name is Agee. What a small world!
Shout out to Zach Mortensen for writing me a letter all in Castellano.  BUENISIMO!

There was a talent show and I had to act..yeah, in Spanish, remember that.  I was just a joke!  I guess I'm just a weirdo or something, but that's not the point.  Elder Pontelli and I made this awesome camera that I had to use, so we laughed so hard.  Yes, this is a pretty dumb story.  Enjoy!  I'm done...HA!

Fernandez Oro...GOLDEN

Hola,

Emailing from Cipolleti right now.  It's about 75 degrees and there is a slight breeze.  To be honest, I don't quite know the temperature.  They measure it differently here so I just learn to guess..if I'm sweaty then I know it's hot. HA!

Yes, I made it to Cipolleti...but I am opening a new area called Fernandez Oro (which is about 20 minutes from Cipolleti).  Our apartment is not ready yet, there isn't any electricity, so I am staying with the Hermana Training Leaders until my apartment is ready, which will be in about 2 weeks.  Bummer!

My new companion is absolutely adorable!  She is from Costa Rica and is ready to work!!  YAY!  The first thing I said to her was, "You ready to work hard?"  Sure enough she is and she has been showing it so far.

It was sad to leave El Bolson because it was so pretty and the miembros are just the sweet4est!  They gave me so many gifts and so much food...so I don't think I'll be sending many pictures home this week ;)  They came and brought our bags to the bus terminal and one of the Hermanos me dijo "Did you bring the whole United States?"  I said, Yes, as I went to grab another bag! ha!  I thought that was hilarious.  We had a solid group of people meet us at the terminal to say goodbye.  They were the sweetest!  Poor little Hermana Lucic cried.  I sure hope she and her companion will be okay.

After traveling all through the night and not sleeping at all for a solid 24 hours, I showed up to pick up my cute little companion and I probably scared her half to death.  Truly!  It was a roughhh day.  I hadn't brushed my teeth, showered, or even changed my clothes or fixed my hair.  Nobody knows what she was thinking, but I just hugged her like I smelled like roses! ha!

We actually went to Fernando Oro yesterday after church to try and get some contacting done so we could find some investigators.  I promise you..these people are so prepared there!  There is only 1 active member and so we have a lot of work to do.  Each person we talked to, yes, each person, was so receptive and allowed us to talk to them.  AH I LOVED IT!  We had a lesson with a lady, and she flat out said, "I Believe all that you are saying."  We then contacted some people and each person said we could come back and teach them.  We now have 2 families to teach, and 4 others.  How amazing, no?!  I couldn't feel more ready.  The Lord is truly hastening the work and I know that He has prepared the people in Fernandez Oro para mi y mi companera.  We just kept smiling the whole night!  So excited!!

We will try and go back there each day and work..but it's just we have to pay for collectivo, so we will see.  Just know that GOOD THINGS are Happening! :)

The ward I am in is HUGE.  We are trying to get one started in Fernandez Oro and meet there 3 times a month and then once a month all meet in Cipo.  We will see what happens.  I truly just am so ready to work.  I love training and I love learning from my trainee. Oh, and yesterday in church, I was asked to go up and introduce ourselves as new missionaries.  After I was done, a monton of people came up to me and said, that I speak really well.  Boosted my confidence!  I have been told that numerous times here in Cipolleti and I was never told that in El Bolson.  I think the Lord is blessing me especially now that I am training and I need to have the knowledge to talk.

I can testify that our Heavenly Father hears and answers our prayers and that He truly will help us through anything if we put our trust in Him.  I have seen it and I know each of you have too.  Don't be afraid to ask Him, for he will give if we ask.

I love you all SO SO SO MUCH!!

Hermana McChesney

Shoutouts:
Shout out to all those celebrating Thanksgiving.  Eat lots of pie and turkey and normal food for me ;)

Goodbye beautiful El Bolson

As you can tell from the subject, it's true.  I am leaving El Bolson.  But.....I'll get more to those details soon.

HELLLOOOOO!!

First off I want to update you all on the most amazing week ever!  This week we had 2 baptisms in El Bolson.  None were of our investigators, but still, I felt as if they were.  "H" was baptized this Friday.  She was so excited and so emotional.  I just hugged her while she said, "I'm ready, I've never been so ready."  She truly is one who has been prepared for the Gospel in this time.  Her baptism was beautiful!

We also had the baptism of "G".  We had received her as a referral from her brother.  Sadly, we could not teach her because she was in the Elders area.  After only 3 weeks of teaching her she was baptized this Saturday.  She, too, was so prepared.  Each Sunday in church I would sit by her in Gospel Principles.  She would make the best comments.  These people are SO PREPARED!  We just need to find them.  They are everywhere.  I encourage you all back home, yes you family, to find those that are prepared.  I promise they are there.

So, the news that you have all been waiting for.
Okay, give me a beat.....

Last name is McChesney, First name Hermana
Been serving in El Bolson for 6 semana (s)
But not for long porque ME VOY
To Cipolletti...name like a toy.  (yeah this rhyme is rough)
What I'm doing there you might ask
Oh, just training, not that big of a task.
And if that news isn't enough
Just wait, there is a little more stuff.
Because this girl is opening an area!
And only one active member...bashareea (word that is me screaming)!

Yep, it's true!  Not only was that the worst rhyme ever...But all of it is true.  I, Hermana McChesney, have been asked to serve in Cipolletti as a trainer.  HOW EXCITING IS THAT!!! :)  I am super exited!  I know that the Mission President has a lot of trust in me, and so does the Lord.  This is a big task.  I am so very excited because I am so ready to work!  There is only one member there..which means lots and lots of work.  So, feel free to keep me in your prayers.  I am so excited though.

I leave Wednesday and drive 8 hours to Neuquen to pick up my cute little trainee.  Aww...My first experience!  I am so excited, but nonetheless nervous out of my mind.  There are only 10 latina sister missionaries arriving, so I'm just praying for one because I don't know how I'm going to communicate with 2 gringos.  HA!!

Love you all.  I am nervous, but I know that our Heavenly Father doesn't give us anything He knows we can't do  I know I am going to learn so much and grow so much.  I am ready for this adventure more than ever!!  Wish me luck!!

Hasta la proxima semana!
Hermana McChesney

Shoutouts:
--Shout out to the boys and all their success in sports!! Jackson, careful in basketball.  Don't get ejected! ha!
--Shout out to mom for dipping chocolates.  Feel free to only send me a few...please...only a few.
--Shout out to Grant and Lindsey and family.  Received your letters today.  LOVED THEM!  Such a surprise!! Thanks so much!!  :)

Funny story:
This week we ran into some Jehovah's witnesses and they ended up later running into the elders and said that they saw 2 North Americans and a Mexican (ha, Hermana Lucic didn't like that).  Me and Hermana Phipps were lie, "how can they know..we didn't even say anything".  Aw we were sitting on the bus, 6 people were getting on and Hermana Phipps turns to me and says, "Seriously they look just like us.  I don't get it."...Next thing we know those 6 start speaking English.  HAHAHA!  Even we can tell.  Goodness.  Guess we really do stand out.

                                                                   The Bishopric

Some of the youth in my ward.  They are like my brothers.  This is a joke because they make fun of me because I'm from Utah.

                                        Pizza I learned to make with an investigator.

NERD

Buen Dia!

Como anda?  This week was quite a crazy one.  Truly.  I don't even know where to start.  I have a little sticky note of things that happened and things I need to write, but Still don't think I'll be able to write it all.  Also thanks for the solid 30 emails this week!  Truly so blessed.

This week we went to go by and visit the 2 new investigators we found.  We went first to "A" and she came out and said that she talked with her husband and he didn't want us to come. We'll try another time and bring our Malta (this drink I hated at first but now I think I'm addicted). We are not going to give up and just pray that the heart of the husband will be softened.

We taught the first lesson to "L" and she was so receptive.  She believes EVERYTHING.  Truly, she had no doubts that Joseph Smith saw God the Father and Jesus Christ.  it was incredible.  Then we asked her to be baptized..and I think she got scared.  Soo...yeah.  We are still working with her and she invited us over again.  We are going to bring her to a baptism either Friday or Saturday (Because the elders have 2 this week).  Hopefully that can help her solve her fears.  We are SUPER excited about her!

Many members have given us references so we've been trying to contact them all.  Things are going well and we are happy about the new people we have met.

It rained SO MUCH this week.  We definitely were soaked most of the day.  We had an appointment to go and learn how to make bread with an investigator.  When we arrived at the appointment, our investigator came to the door crying.  She said she was having a very bad day.  She explained what has been going on and we taught her about the plan of salvation, how God is our loving Heavenly Father, and so many other doctrines.  We know that we had that appointment to make bread for a reason...not just to make bread, but to help her.  We never even got to the bread.  I know God is looking after all of His children and it is so incredible to see Him work through me.

We also had zone meetings this week in Esquel.  It was last minute so we had to cancel a lot of appointments which is always a bummer.  Again, I learned SO MUCH!  I love our zone!  We are changing a lot in this area.  This is the new generation of missionaries, and I am so lucky to be apart of it.  After zone meeting, we went to get our tickets to get back to El Bolson...but there was no room.  So, we had to stay an extra night.  We went out with the sisters there.  I love new experiences like that .  It makes me grow.

Oh, while we were waiting for the bus to get us, an Elder asked to see my agenda.  I gave it to him and he said that I was such a nerd.  He said my agenda was so perfect and organized and planned for every activity.  I was confused and thought, "Isn't that how it is supposed to be?"  I have been thinking a lot about that and thought, "Am I the only one that is this organized?"...and "Is that really nerdy?"...I then thought to myself, why should I change my ways?  I made an acronym for the word nerd:

Never
Evaluate
Righteous
Decisions

Obviously I am not putting myself above anybody.  It is just a funny acronym.  I have my standards of what I do and what I know to be right for me (even if it is as funny as an agenda).  I should not change these standards because it's different than others.  I want to encourage all of you to make decisions and standards and then don't change them or evaluated them when others judge.  I promise you will be blessed for holding strong to your standards.

Se que Jesuscristo vive
Se que este EVangelio puede bendecir familias
Se que he sido llamado por un profeta y el ha sida llamado de Dios.
Se que el Libro de Mormon es verdadero...lealo ;)

Hermana McChesney

Shoutouts:
Shout out to Bethanna Beifuss.  Congrats on receiving my package! :)  Can't wait to wear those shirts!
Shout out to Meisho (the cat of a member)...I couldn't help but laugh thinking of my mom's name :)  Love you mom!
Shout out to Chans for the spiritual thoughts and emails.
Shout out to Jackson for trying out for the basketball team...represent!
Shout out to my whole family.  EVERYONE!  Love you all.

P.S.  Transfers are this Sunday.  Wish me luck!!

It's a great day to have a great day!

Es un buen dia para tener un buen dia!

Hello family! :)
I woke up saying "It's a great day to have a great day".  I don't know if that phrase translates to Spanish, but I said it anyways.  I remember each morning waking up in college and reading a quote on the mirror in the bathroom that said something like that.  Made me laugh.  HA!  But how true is it.  We determine our own happiness.

So this week was good.  A lot happened.  One of our recent inactives invited us over for a FHE with some family and friends.  It was so great because this sweet sister lead the WHOLE discussion and had everything planned.  How awesome!  She was inactive just 2 weeks ago, now look at her.  She is doing so incredible.  Such an inspiration to me!

We have a baptism set for another sister on Nov 15...so soon!  She is in the elders area so we passed her on to them.  I'm so proud of her! She was in church and just has a glow about her.  Miracles!!

We went knocking the other day because things fell through (I absolutely hate knocking..I'm praying to enjoy it one day).  I think I dislike it so much because every time I try to do my approach or ask a question, they look at me and say that they can't understand.  For real??  I think it's because I'm sooo smart and my brain moves faster than my mouth. ha!  But anyways..guess what..we found 2 people who want to learn.  They were serious and not just the regular, "oh yea come back later", but then when you go back they're not there.  This is real life!  They want to learn!  AH!  So we are going to start teaching them.  So excited!

Also, we stopped by a home where a lady said we could come back and talk.  So we went and she let us in..but it wasn't just her there, it was her WHOLE family.  Yes, 8 people.  I wanted to die.  It started out rough.  They were bashing the mormons, and pretty much giving us a run down about Joseph Smith and the first vision. We were just stunned and didn't know where to go from there.  After about an hour, we began testifying and teaching.  Their hearts were softened and by the end of the discussion, one man said he wanted to come to church and the dad said that we were invited over whenever.  It was so strange.  I can't even describe how weird it was.  Like truly!  Most awkward feeling ever!  Just shows that the gospel softens hearts no matter how hard they may be.

Well everyone, I love you all!  I see miracles everyday.  I encourage you to look for miracles in your lives as well.  They are there if you look.  I promise.  Our Heavenly Father will never forget us, but sometimes we forget Him.  Look for Him in your day each day!  I know you will find His hand.

Love you all,
 Hermana McChesney

Funny Stories:
This week Hermana Lucic had to go to Bariloche to do Transmites.  So, it was just two Yankees in Argentina trying to teach the gospel.  The funny part is that Hermana Lucic's bus arrived at 4:45 and we had to pick her up...but we were stuck in a lesson until 5:20....rough.  So we ran for a solid 25 minutes through the streets of El Bolson.  Everybody was stunned!  We found her, so no worries.

One day, after meeting with an investigator, we took a short cut down a HUGE steep hill.  Bad idea.  There was a man trying to get up with his bike, so just my good nature, I decided to help.  Bad idea again.  Not only did the man have to get his bike and him up the hill, now he had to get me up too.  HA!!  Seriously funniest things of my life!

Shoutouts:
Shout out to Little Crew for his picture.  We have an artista on our hands.  I loved the letter, and for sure, that Hobo needs the gospel. ;)

Shout out to Tyler for killing it in the music video.  HA! Laughed so hard!!

Shout out to Hermana Squires and for her email.  Loved it!  Thanks for the uplifting words and testimony.

Shout out to Lauren and Steph for their emails.  You two kill me every time!

Shout out to Cami for her email as well --- MARRIAGE!! AH!

                                                      There area dogs everywhere!!

                                  This is the steep hill I went down..and up...and down again.

                                                          Happy Birthday, Hermana Phipps

This was our birthday breakfast today.

Hello World. How you been?

Thanks to all who take time to write me and tell me what is going on in life.  Keep doing what you're doing.

This week I like to call MIRACLE WEEK.
After a rough first week and after all of us trying to adjust to things, we finally had some success.  We had Almuerzo con un converso recente.  As we shared the spiritual message with the converso recente, her sister, and mom, we were inspired to share something different then we had planned.  We talked about faith, repentance, baptism, and just the gospel.  They loved it!  As we finished up and said goodbye, the sister brought us chocolate and said, "come by whenever, you're always welcome."  Then the mom said, "if you ever need lunch call me and we will feed you. "  The mom followed us out and asked if we could teach her the lessons.  She has seen a change in her daughters life and has been praying and reading a lot about the church.  Wow!  This just shows that God has prepared people.

After, we tried to do some contacting.  Nothing worked.  So, we were going to visit an old investigator, but then I had the feeling to visit another less active girl.  We had tried to see her previous times, but nothing...so we decided to try again.  Sure enough we got in!  She is my age and so it was so nice talking to her.  We talked and read some scriptures.  She had a friend with her and we were able to give her a Book of Mormon.  She of the girls opened up a lot to us and we were able to answer their questions and comfort them with the teachings of the gospel.   We knelt down and prayed together and the spirit was so strong while this girl prayed.  It was incredible!  They said they were going to read the Book of Mormon and go to church.  AH!  I've learned that the spirit can talk to us just by putting a thought into our heads.  It is such a blessing to know that the spirit speaks to me and my companions.

We had zone meetings this week in Esquel.  It's about 2.5 hours on the collectivo (bus) from here.  It's beautiful!  We stayed the night there and spent most of Saturday there.  I bore my testimony in Zone Conference and it was the first time I can truly say that the whole time I was lead by the spirit and spoke how I felt and not the routine testimony.  Obviously I have a testimony, but in Spanish you kind of get into a routine of things you know how to say...but this time I spoke and said things I have never said before.  It was incredible!  I felt on top of the world :)

I am so lucky to be here!!

We had a few other miracles that I can't go into right now, but just know that I know that this church is true.  I am so lucky to be serving the Lord in this time of the world.  I couldn't ask for anything more!  Keep reading your scriptures and praying together as a family.  You are all always in my prayers.  Be safe this week and keep sending me pictures.  I love them.

Les quiero mucho!

Hermana McChesney
(Sorry no pictures.  Hopefully this computer will work next week because I have a lot of good ones.)

Shoutouts:
HAPPY BIRTHDAY OLIVIA!
Shout out to Grandma and Papa with their new calling.  Hope you are loving it!!
Shout out to Uncle Mike and Aunt Heidi for moving into their new home.  So exciting!
Shout out to Uncle Scott and Aunt Julie for the news on the new baby!  YAY!
Shout out for Austin making it to San Diego!

Other Info:
My pension (apartment) is nice.  It gets very dusty, but they say it's the nicest pension in the mission.  I sleep on the ground, however, on a mattress, but it's no big deal.

I have a fantastic district.  They are all so sweet.  We love teaching each other English and Spanish.  It's so fun!  We do activities together all the time!

There are dogs EVERYWHERE.  I haven't had to use my dog tazer yet.  HA!  Still can't believe I have one of those.  It makes me laugh so hard.

The weather is either really cold or really hot.  You can never expect what it's going to be like.  Reminds me of home!

Mother's Day in October!

Well, Buenas Dias everybody!!

This week was good.  I am trying to still figure out everything.  I've come to the conclusion that changing between 2 missions is really hard.  Truly.  There are different things you need to do and different ways to do it all..sometimes I feel like a lost sheep, but I remember that picture of Christ carrying the sheep on His shoulders.  It never ceases to motivate me.

Funny things happen to me everyday.  One day we walked to a lunch appointment that took us about 30 minutes to get there.  As we were about to start eating, I got a bloody nose.  Yeah.  Miserable.  I was humiliated because it wouldn't stop.  I ended up sitting with a tissue up my nose for the whole hour and then on the way back.  It was so bad!  But hey, I still waved at everyone we passed :)

We had exchanges this week.  We had no idea what to expect, but the training leaders and Hermana Stanley (my hermana from the MTC) came and worked in El Bolson with us for the day.  We had 2 companionships.  It was great!  We got a lot done and I learned SO SO SO much.  We worked a lot with less actives!  It just had me thinking that this calling as a missionary truly is to invite everyone to come unto Christ and develop their faith...not just new investigators.

I bore my testimony in church yesterday.  It was good.  I even threw in a line how with both members and missionaries we can bring more into this church family.  Yeah, I am really trying to stress this "every member missionary".  It's great!  We have been having a lot of people want to come out with us!  YAY!

Yesterday we got lost trying to visit a member.  It was mother's day here.  As we were trying to find the home, I saw a lady who looked lost, too.  I started to talk to her and she said, "I don't know you".  I then continued to say that we were missionaries and our purpose.  She then turned to me and said, "Are you from Europe?"  YESSSSS!!  First time somebody didn't know I was from the states.  Best day ever! ha!  She ended up not wanting to hear and told us to keep walking.  Awkward.  But, it was great.  I did my job of inviting and that's all I can do.

We have a lot of referrals out here and not a lot of progressing investigators.  We have an adorable lady that has a baptismal date for the 19th.  Super excited for that!  We are working hard but it's difficult getting in with people because of siesta.  We are trying and things are starting to work out!  More members are helping us.  It's great!  I love it!

I was in Bariloche just last week for stake conference.  IT IS BEAUTIFUL!  It's just 2 hours away.  We will definitely go and visit when I am done with my mission.  :)  Okay!

Hope all is going well.  Thanks for being the best examples ever and for always keeping me in your prayers.  I feel them daily.  I received NUMEROUS emails this week from family, friends, ward members, old high school friends, etc.  I know that each of you were prompted to write me for a reason.  Thanks for following the spirit and being worthy to receive the spirit in your lives.

Best wishes to you all.  Love this work, love the area!

Hermana McChesney

SHOUTOUTS:
Shout out to my mom for always updating my blog.  Can I get a Whoorahh?
Shout out to Jackson for turning 15 year old!  YAY!!  Did you get your permit?
Shout out to all the mothers out there, especially my mom.  It was Mother's Day here and you were on my mind all day!  So FELIZ DIA DE LA MADRE!

Beautiful El Bolson.  It is said that this little village resembles the shire in the Hobbit.

More pics of El Bolson

Mountains!! I see mountains!!

My District

Yes, Yes, It's true.  I made it to Argentina!!  I didn't get to email yesterday because from what I understood, it was a siesta time and something about Racist.. ?  Yeah, I was confused about the racist part but that's what I was told. Ha!

Well, I would love to email all about the travel here to Argentina but it would probably take ALL DAY.  It was such a long trip.  I did enjoy talking to you mom, dad, and all the boys.  Miss you all lots!

So the flight from Dallas to Argentina was about 10 hours, I believe.  I got onto the plane not even thinking that everyone was going to speak Spanish...yeah, they did.  So me and Hermana Malmrose somehow were the last ones to find room for our bags up top, then I had to sit between 4 natives.  Oh, just wait..it gets more comical.  So I have my personal item under my seat but I had front row so apparently you can't have them on the ground..?  They asked me to move it and the people next to me said not to worry about it..so I didn't.  Let's just say after the plane ride when the lady saw me pick it up from the ground she gave me a scold.  Whoops.

The plane was FREEZING!  To keep warm I put the blanket over my head and tried to save body heat.  Yes.  I was the crazy American trying to stay warm.  But hey, it worked! ha!  We then spent some time in Buenas Aires and then had to take another plane to Neuquen.  After arriving we met up with the AP's, president and his wife.  They were all so nice, I can't quite explain.  We slept in a hotel and then the following day we had to get finger prints and then figure out our new companions.  Yes, I am in a trio again.  It's rough...ha!  But, it's okay, it's only for a few weeks, I believe.  One of my comps is from Chile and the other has only been out for one transfer.  So, we are all pretty new to the area and new missionaries.  Our area is El Bolson..that's another 9 hours by bus from Neuquen.  I didn't sleep well for a good 4 days.  I'm in the Patagonia and it's beautiful!!  My companion and I are learning quick. :)

We had some great experiences this week.  We visited with a lady named "C".  She is a sweetheart.  I asked her when she knew that what we were teaching her was true if she would be baptized.  She said YES!! AH!  I know I know!  We have a date for the 16th of November.

There is a lot of work to be done out here.  There are about 500 inactive members in El Bolson.  Lots of work!  We have lunch with a member every day.  For example, today we went to a members house and she gave us this HUGE bowl of soup.  Thinking that was it, I took my time and was so full after.  No.  Then she brought out the main dish..which was beef, noodles, corn, peas, and potatoes.  Yeah.  I almost died.  And then..to finish the meal, fruit.  I had a food baby. HA!  On the bright side, we never have dinner so it's like 2 in one.

Yesterday for P-day we hiked a mountain to a waterfall.  It was so nice to be outside!  Loved it so much!!  I don't remember the last time I wore pants on the mission....seriously, it was in the MTC.  Hey, at least they still fit ;)  Wow.

I have a great district.  We only speak Spanish.  YAY!  We have an elder from Mexico that I love to talk with because I can understand him the most.  He reminds me of my family in Texas.  I miss them a lot, more than I thought I would.  I know after these 14 months I will feel the same about these Argentinos.

Thanks for all your examples!  I am learning the language quick out here, it's nice.  It is so pretty!  Remember our purpose here on the earth and always keep the atonement in mind.  Also,


Read D&C 67.  It really hit me hard.

Hasta Lunes!
Les quiero mucho!

Hermana McChesney

Shoutouts:
Shout out to all my friends and family in Texas.  Miss you all and hope you are all doing well.
Shout out to Hermano Contreras on the baptism.  I heard it was fantastic!
Shout out to Austin for getting sick...hahahaha weak ;)

This rock reminds me of home in Utah!

                                                                  I love my shirt!!

To Argentina and BEYOND!

Well friends and family, it's true.  I am heading to Argentina.  I don't know how everybody and their dog found out (mom, I'm guessing this is your doing, ha)...but it's true.  I leave Wednesday at 4:45, I believe.  I never thought I would feel so...well, I am short of words to describe my feelings.  I have really learned to love the people here in Waller, Texas.  More than I ever thought I would.  So before I start sobbing here at the library, let me tell you about my week.

This week was amazing!  Our numbers don't show it, but that is one thing I have learned.  It's not all about the numbers.  We had a solid week!!

So, this Wednesday we were up in an area called Hempstead.  We were having a solid day celebrating investigators birthdays and then teaching some great lessons.  In one of the lessons the question was asked, "Isn't one of you supposed to go to Argentina?"  I then responded saying, Yeah ti's me.  I don't know if I will be leaving in a week or a month, it's all a surprise to me."  We taught a great lesson and the spirit was so strong as we taught about prophets and how we have a living prophet today.  Our spanish flowed and it was just beautiful :)

We finished the lesson and as I was backing out Hermana Hosking from their house,  I opened the phone and had a text from President Pingree.  It said that Hermana Malmrose and I had received our visas and would be leaving the 8 of October.  Before I could even finish the text I screamed and jumped and probably did everything against mission rules (aka white handbook says no dancing in public, and I didn't finish backing out Hermana)..next thing I know the member was like "what happened"?  I then proceeded to tell him out the window that I was going to Argentina.  After I realized what was going on, I then felt so sad.  This is hard.  Hard to leave the people I love.

The next day we had English class.  I sent out a text saying I hoped they could all make it so I could say my goodbyes.  We showed up a little early and 2 students had come and brought me gifts.  Seriously.  These people are too sweet to me.  Then we had class and everyone was asking me questions about why I was leaving and it was nice I was able to explain a little more of what I do as a missionary.  As class was ending, the same 2 students who got me the gift but "couldn't stay", came walking in with cake and soda.  Yes, it's true.  They threw me a going away party.  I couldn't even handle how sweet it was.

Just when you think that you aren't changing peoples lives or feel like you could be doing so much more, things like this happen.  I realize that maybe my numbers aren't the highest.  Maybe I am not baptizing all of Waller, but the relationships I have with the people I do teach and come in contact with are life changing.  I truly will love them forever!

So, this week was Conference, right? How incredible was Conference?  Aw, I love it.  It was nice to have them broadcast it for us in English.  And guess what...4 ENGLISH CLASS MEMBERS CAME TO CONFERENCE! AH!  My heart it cried a little inside.  These students have so much respect and trust in us.  They loved conference :)  I decided to watch the final session in Spanish with 2 students.  As it was over, the boy told me "I drew this picture (showing me a picture of Christ) so I could remember how I feel and how grateful I am for a teacher like you who taught me about Christ and English."  Okay.  I can't even handle how much I love these people.

After we were done cleaning up and taking pictures with all the branch and me.  A member said to me, "I have a song that will make you cry"...okay.  He then gathered 6 members and they sang Hasta Ver (God Be With You Til We Meet Again).  Yep, it's true.  I cried.  I guess I never realized how much love I had for them until you are forced to leave.

Overall, I love this area!  I am going to miss it so much.  So much.  The members, the investigators, the cows.  Everything.  I know I was supposed to serve here for a reason.

On the not so heart wrenching news....I CAUGHT A MOUSE.  Repeat, I caught a mouse!  No, they clearly weren't dead.  Oops.

I saw the mouse
I screamed
I called for Hermana Hosking
I made her get a bowl (so I could watch it of course)
She attempted to catch it
She missed multiple times
We are screaming this whole time
I finally take the bowl
I catch the mouse.
They don't call me Katniss for nothing ;)

HA!  It was wonderful

So, overall this week was amazing.  We had some great lessons, some amazing miracles, and even a lady who dropped us called us and asked if we would come back and teach her and her sister.  KACHOW!  Solid week.  The Lord's hand truly is in all things and it is all about timing.

 Please pray for my castellano.   I love you all!

Hermana McChesney

Mikayla's visa came!

I got a call from the Texas Houston Mission office on Thursday morning letting me know that Mikayla's visa came.  She will be leaving Texas on Tuesday and heading to Argentina.  I know that Mikayla has mixed emotions as she has grown to love the people in Texas.  This may be her hardest transfer yet.

 This was taken at a friends restaurant where Mikayla was saying goodbye.  The sweet friend sent me these pictures and said that Mikayla would come and visit with her often.  I'm happy to see that someone likes my girl even when she takes crazy pictures like this one above.

Mikayla and Hermana Hosking

Conference is coming...it's true, it's true!

Hello,

This week was great!  We had a very successful week.  We found 3 new investigators!  Yep, it's true. 3.  They are all from the same family, but still it is incredible!!  This week we saw the mom working in her yard with her girls.  We stopped to see if we could help.  After we helped, we all sat on her trampoline and told her our purpose as missionaries.  They asked us questions and were just so grateful for us and our service.  It was great and they even invited us back!!  So we went and taught the Restoracion.  It went very well.  I think we are going to be seeing great things from them! :)

This week we didn't get in with "D" or her family once.  She still came to church, though, and it was our fast and testimony meeting.  Guess who went up?  This girl.  It's true.  I was a little blancita shaking trying to bear my testimony to all these native Hispanics.

After church we stayed after in primary with "D"  and the leaders (I've been helping a lot with the primary in the ward.  Teaching classes and sitting with them in primary).  "D" received her part for the primary program.  She was asked to bear her testimony on prophets.  She said, "is it okay if I say this..?"  She then began to share her whole testimony.  Wow!  Literally broke down.  This girl kills me.  It was the most beautiful testimony.  Later that day, we went over to her place and she had her testimony all written out on a piece of paper.  She read it to me and in her testimony she shared how grateful she was for us missionaries who have taught her about Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon.  I know when that primary program comes I am going to lose it...again.

Oh oh oh, CONFERENCE IS THIS WEEK!  Yes. I think I am a little too excited.  Actually, false.  I cannot be too excited, but I'm ecstatic!  The whole Woman's broadcast was fantastic as well.  I am so glad we were able to go to that.  I am also so grateful that there was a room showing it in English.  Mostly all the missionaries were in that room. ha!  It just makes me so happy to hear words spoken by the prophet and others called of God.  It is just a testimony builder.  After, I had the desire to read my baptismal and temple covenants.  I will forever be moved by the words I studied and heard that day.

Another bright note, I think we killed the mice family...key word: think.  There is now a stench in our apartment.  Yeah.  It's bad.  I think they died under the dishwasher.

I love it out here.  Spanish is coming.  I understand it a lot better than I can speak it but it is coming :)  I can get my point across which is good.  It's all those people that slur their words or use slang when they speak that kill me.

You and those special people I know are always in my prayers.  Remember who you all are.  People are watching you and judging us as members.  Things are getting crazy in the world today, but we need to stick strong as a family and help each other out.  None of us are going to fall.  We will all make it back to live with our Father in Heaven...okay?  Promise me that.

Read your scriptures.  Say your prayers.  Remember that everything is going to work out.

Tu hermana,
Hermana McChesney

Shoutouts:
--Shout out to Cabrina Blackhurst for getting her papers in :)  AH!  Couldn't be more excited about this!
--Shout out to Crew for getting braces.  Cutest kid on the block that's for sure!

Funny things that happened this week:
--Learned how to dance like a Mexican this week.  Yeah, let's just say two white girls should never try to dance like that ever again.

Cielito Lindo..HA!

Thanks again for all the emails.  I literally laugh way too hard here in the library.  I try to hold it in, but it's impossible.  One thing I've learned on the mission is that ...I laugh way too much.  I think it's good, but others may think differently. HA!

Well, this week was full of adventures.  Somehow this week we were running short on miles.  On Thursday, we decided to walk to the store to pick up some clothes for our skit, and then to the post office.  It was such a beautiful day, just walking!  Then off in the distance we see black sky and clouds.  We realized we should probably walk a little faster.  We got the mail and then it started to rain a little bit.  I thought it was awesome!  So I was enjoying the breeze and the rain instead of the sweat and heat.  We walked for about 10 minutes and then straight down pour!  The whole back of my skirt was drenched and then the front was dry.  We still had a mile to go.  Then comes the lightning and thunder.  I thought for sure we were going to get hit by lightning and die.  The heading of the newspaper would read, "Sister Missionaries Trying to Save Miles Can't Save Their Lives"...yeah.. those were my thoughts.  People asked us if we wanted a ride, but we aren't allowed to.  Let's just say after 2ish miles in down pour, I felt like a champion when I made it home!  HA!

We had exchanges this week.  It was good.  I got to go out with Hermana Rife again.  We had some great lessons!!  One in particular was with "D" and her family.  Yes, I said family.  HER DAD LISTENED TO THE WHOLE LESSON!!  We taught about obedience and the ten commandments.  I asked the dad if he was interested and he said he was.  (heel click)  I was so happy!  It was great.  We told the mom again that "D" cannot be baptized if she does not bring her to church.  She didn't bring her this Sunday...so, that was sad.  We will hope for the next.

We are still teaching English class every Wed and Thurs.  It's so amazing!  I love it!!  We have so many new students.  It's getting a little hard to manage it all.  We are trying to get members to come and fellowship so our students can feel welcome if they come to activities.  Speaking of which, TWO OF OUR ENGLISH CLASS MEMBERS CAME TO NOCHE DE NATIONALIDADES! :)

Okay---Noche de Nationalidades.  Yes, it happened.  Was I humiliated?  Yes.  Did I act natural like Beyonce?  Yes.  I literally was so sick that whole day because I was so nervous.  It brings me back to basketball games and other events.  But it went well.  I had somebody film it so I am going to try and get it sent over (video couldn't be downloaded, so Mikayla is sending the SD card home.  Once I get it, I "might" put it on here...just depending on how humiliating it really is.)  We sang Cielito Lindo, then did a skit with all us missionaries, and then danced with the Relief Society.  The one that everyone died laughing at was the skit we did.  We had it look like we were midgets.  Hermana Hosking was my hands/arms, my arms were my feet, and then just my head.  Everybody was in tears, including me!  I don't think I have laughed so hard.  It went really well :)  "D" and her whole family came!!  She and her little sister danced with the primary.  The mom and dad loved it...and even grandma came!  It was great!  We had a lot of success that night!  So happy!!

I got to play basketball for the first time in FOREVER!  I forgot how much I missed it.  Played with all the Elders and a couple guys around here in Waller.  It was a blast!  Even if Hma Hosking and I were the only girls, we competed well.  HA!

Um...well, as for investigators this week.  We had a rough week.  We had some great lesson though as always.  One thing I've noticed is that all the good things always out weigh the bad things!  So as hard as a week this may have been, we still had success in other areas.  It's nice to know that each week is different and we have different things to look forward to.

Oh, we had interviews this week.  I had a great interview with President.  He had me pray in Spanish and he said that my Spanish sounds fantastic and is much better than last time he saw me.  He asked Hma Hosking if I could take on the area...yeah.  So please pray for me. AHHHH!  I don't know how I feel about that.

I was studying today on pride and contention.  I found a lot of great scriptures in Proverbs.  I now have a better understanding of how some of my investigators are and how I can better help them and connect with them.  I love personal study, it's sad we only have 1 hour (I never thought I would ever say that before the mission..it's true, I'm growing up. ha!)  I just know that love always beats contention, always.  Nothing good comes from contention and it can easily be avoided.  I am excited to use what I have learned in teaching.

Well, hope all is going well for you all.  Love and miss you all :)  Remember to read your scriptures and through Christ all is possible, I know that to be true!  Read Mosiah 24: 13-16

Con amor,

Hermana McChesney

P.S.  It looks like I have a disease on my foot...too many ant bites.  I stepped on an ant hill...

Shoutouts:
--Shout out to Jackson Wooden on the mission call to the Philippines!
--Shout out to Dad for visiting Forks, Washington!  Ha!  Dying!
--Shout out to Austin..Zone Leader!  YEA!
--Shout out to Steph Mersmann for the letter.  Loved it!