Saturday, July 10, 2010
Going Back to Houston....
I blogged about my missionary this week on my blog. It's worth the read. Just go to newfrontporchfriend.blogspot.com and start to read. Enjoy the musical accompaniment. It's just perfect for my girl in "Houston, Houston, Houston..."
Monday, July 5, 2010
7-5-10 "Lonestar Cupcakes and Hurricane Alex"
Happy birthday, America! Now you are 234 years old and looking pretty good for your age, I might say. Of course, I have absolutely no idea what is going on with the world, for the most part, but that is a big blessing, so I can't really complain. We had a fabulous fourth, complete with the cupcakes you sent, Mom. They were ultra-delicious and enjoyed by all.
We have church in the late afternoon, so we spent the rest of the day with some members who live in our apartment complex. They grilled delicious burgers and made fries and potato salad. We were supposed to be in by 7:30 anyway, just to avoid dangerous drivers and over-zealous party-ers. We did get to see the fireworks, but they weren't quite as visible from our apartment as we'd originally thought. Actually, our balcony faced a little too west, and the fireworks were to the southwest, but we could see them from inside. Not Idaho Falls, but not bad. 
Kiery...I was thinking about her the other day. I was thinking that she was my first unofficial missionary companion and wondering how she was doing. It's good to know she's doing okay and enjoying everything, even if life as a newlywed has its own unique challenges. I guess they've actually almost been married for two years now, if I'm doing my calculations right in my head. Crazy how time seems to move faster for other people than it does for yourself, but then again, it also pretty much flies for each of us in its own ways.
We have church in the late afternoon, so we spent the rest of the day with some members who live in our apartment complex. They grilled delicious burgers and made fries and potato salad. We were supposed to be in by 7:30 anyway, just to avoid dangerous drivers and over-zealous party-ers. We did get to see the fireworks, but they weren't quite as visible from our apartment as we'd originally thought. Actually, our balcony faced a little too west, and the fireworks were to the southwest, but we could see them from inside. Not Idaho Falls, but not bad. Today hopefully we will be going to a local snow cone place that Sister Smith says is To. Die. For. So maybe I will try your coconut cream flavor, even if it does smell like suntan oil. "Lotioning and oiling and oiling and lotioning."
Speaking of oil, for the last month or so, as you've probably heard, there has been an oil leak in the Gulf of Mexico related to Houston oil refining and such. Yuck! Hopefully it will be resolved soon, especially with hurricane season already upon us. In fact, not to frighten you, but we've already had one hurricane, sort of. It touched land in Mexico, pretty far south of where we are, but we still had steady rain most of Thursday and Friday. Good thing we had plenty of appointments scheduled so we didn't have to be out in it. And good thing we had a car, because the poor bike missionaries had to stay in their apartments if they couldn't get rides with members. That's enough to drive you crazy!
My tennis boyfriend is not happy. What does that mean? Did he do something unbecoming of a graceful champion? Or was he still totally humble in defeat? Look, Fed, even if you are Mr. peRFect, you can't win them all. I'm happy for Nadal, but I still wish someone who hasn't won Wimbledon yet could have come out champion. Plus, it makes me sad to hear that the final match was boring. It sounds like all the real excitement happened in that legendarily long match last week.
Grasshoppers everywhere. Just a passing comment. We have grasshoppers everywhere here. They are especially active in the early morning and early night. When we walk down to the gym every morning, sometimes I get a little excited/afraid of them, because sometimes right after I take a step, like 50 jump up from all around us. Totally freaky! I hate them. Still. Just so you know.
Did Porter get his mission call yet? Seriously, I can't recall that you ever told me he did. I just like to keep track of everyone of Cassidy's friends who are joining the full-time missionary army. I try to keep them in my prayers, especially our Elder Jardine, who I hope is doing well. I haven't had the chance to drop him a letter yet, not since he was in the MTC, but I haven't received any back either, so I'm sure he's just as busy being a good missionary and staying in touch with his family. From the pictures, it looks like Cassidy has many wonderful friends in her ward at BYU-Idaho. She has a special gift for charming everyone, and certainly going to school during summer semester and living that close to home brings its blessings by being able to share America's birthday with all your friends, even if some of them are Canadian. I guess they decided to have the fireworks on the 3rd instead of the 5th there. I was guessing that they would be happening tonight, but either way, you still have time for the Driveway of Fire tonight. I will be there in spirit, too, as long as you don't do them at 1:30 in the morning like someone was last night right outside our window. Seriously. Every ten minutes or so I would hear like 10 bottle rockets go off and what felt like the longest string of firecrakers ever. Not cool when one is trying to sleep. Anyway, nice shirt, Eli. Very styling and sporty. Nice nails, Cassidy. Very festive and patriotic.
Kiery...I was thinking about her the other day. I was thinking that she was my first unofficial missionary companion and wondering how she was doing. It's good to know she's doing okay and enjoying everything, even if life as a newlywed has its own unique challenges. I guess they've actually almost been married for two years now, if I'm doing my calculations right in my head. Crazy how time seems to move faster for other people than it does for yourself, but then again, it also pretty much flies for each of us in its own ways.Girls' camp sounds fabulous! I would believe nothing less than that you produced the best skit imaginable, topped off by taking home the girls' camp Oscar. Way to go for not only learning but teaching the "Hoedown Throwdown" to all the girls. Maybe you were channeling your "Yellow Rose of Texas"--ME! Except I can't really take any credit for it since I haven't line-danced even once since arriving here almost one year ago. Maybe I will today, in honor of you and Sister Marlow. And of course, no girls' camp adventure would be complete without the "Peggy Dawn hook arm" story. I am glad the Dyer girls have taken up the torch on that one so the legend will live on. Even though I wasn't there with you in body, I was in spirit, as I thought repeatedly throughout the week about you being at girls' camp and having a great time. Maybe we will have the opportunity in coming summers to climb Table Rock together. If Grandma Ricks has done it, we ought to be able to do it also.
I believe that's all the news from here, but I love you all and hope you have a great week.
Love, Sister Whitney Mikell Sorensen
PS We're conducting a poll. Do X's stand for hugs or kisses? Same question but about O's. Are they hugs or kisses? We're not sure, but we're curious.
Monday, June 28, 2010
6-28-10 "One Year Ago"
Can you believe it has been a whole year since we parted ways?!? It was official last Thursday. We were actually at Sonic on our way to do service, and I realized that it was 1 in Idaho/Utah, and that it had been exactly one year. Wow. I guess it feels like I haven't seen y'all in a year, but it really doesn't feel like I can have been on my mission for a year. I think, in hindsight, that spending all that time in Tomball made it feel like time hadn't moved as much as it had. Crazy. Actually, the thing I find it hardest to believe is that July is almost here. Once that comes, I think time will just keep flying at an ever-faster pace, even with the Texas heat. Seriously. You can't be outside for more than two minutes without sweating. Gross. Enough about that.
I loved all the stories about Eli. I just couldn't stop cracking up. And when I think they can't get any better, there are like three more. So funny. That's my brother. What a vocabulary! And such a scientific mind. Remember when we used to say he would be either a zoologist or a professional baseball player. Now I'm not sure that either of those professions will contain his incredible intellect, although if that's what he wanted to pursue, he would certainly be the best in either one. How is baseball? He probably doesn't have it this week if he'll be out in Mackay with the grandparents. That's what I gathered from your e-mails, but maybe I misunderstood. I
hope y'all have a great time at girls' camp. I know you will, but you won't get this until after it's over. I also realized that you are no longer in Young Womens, Mom, but they must have already commited you to girls' camp before they gave you a new calling. You are great to go. Remember to wear sunscreen.
The stories about Eli prompt me to tell you about my new favorite family in Katy. They have three little boys, and one of them just turned 8. His name is Jared, and he has the same precocious genius as Eli. Yesterday he asked us if we'd ever met someone we'd like to marry. Because he had. We asked him to describe her. "Well, she has white skin, and red hair in a pony tail." I'm not describing it very well, but it was so funny. Every time I am around him, he does something that makes me think of Eli. He loves Lego video games like Star Wars and Indiana Jones and Batman, and even has a bag full of drawings of Lego characters. I suggested to him that he should be pen pals with Eli. We'll see if that idea takes off.
I'm sad to hear the Nielsons are moving. Saylor is my little nursery baby, but I guess even little nursery babies grow up and move away. She looks very grown up. Best wishes to them. They will be missed. Also, Cassidy, you look great in the photos Mom sent. You are beautiful. I can't wait to see my beautiful sister again. Eli, you look more grown up as well, but still the goofy, funny brother that I love. The one who really looks grown up is Macy! She looks like a three-year-old! Jace is already four. Tell him I'm not coming home in a month, but I will be in a few months. Hello to Cade, also, and the whole Marlow clan.
This week we were trying to contact a few referrals, but they haven't been home yet. It'll happen sometime this week, I'm sure of it. In the meantime, we keep teaching the people we already have to teach. There is a gentleman about 65 who just got married to a recent convert. They have been teaching him for 6 months or so. He is reading the Book of Mormon for the first time, and is already in Mosiah. We are teaching the husband of a member. He has already given up alcohol, and is working on stopping chewing tobacco. He is the closest to baptism. Keep him in your prayers. And there is another man, Andy, who is a brilliant retired man. He recently finished the Book of Mormon, but still wonders about many little details. I wish the Spirit could convince him that he could learn so much faster if he would receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. But he needs to stop smoking before that can happen, so maybe it's not so much his testimony as his willingness that's holding him back. Another investigator that we have has an amazing testimony, but again, can't stop smoking. It's a struggle to know what to do when you want to keep teaching them and keep them connected to the gospel but they really aren't progressing. Lastly, we are working with many returning to activity less-active individuals and families that are working on going to the temple, so hopefully we will be instruments of the Spirit to help them make those covenants if it is the right time in their lives.
Much love,
Sister Whitney Mikell Sorensen
PS Please shine!
PPS Go Federer! (Or Murray. Or Roddick. Or Nadal. In that order.)
I loved all the stories about Eli. I just couldn't stop cracking up. And when I think they can't get any better, there are like three more. So funny. That's my brother. What a vocabulary! And such a scientific mind. Remember when we used to say he would be either a zoologist or a professional baseball player. Now I'm not sure that either of those professions will contain his incredible intellect, although if that's what he wanted to pursue, he would certainly be the best in either one. How is baseball? He probably doesn't have it this week if he'll be out in Mackay with the grandparents. That's what I gathered from your e-mails, but maybe I misunderstood. I
hope y'all have a great time at girls' camp. I know you will, but you won't get this until after it's over. I also realized that you are no longer in Young Womens, Mom, but they must have already commited you to girls' camp before they gave you a new calling. You are great to go. Remember to wear sunscreen.
The stories about Eli prompt me to tell you about my new favorite family in Katy. They have three little boys, and one of them just turned 8. His name is Jared, and he has the same precocious genius as Eli. Yesterday he asked us if we'd ever met someone we'd like to marry. Because he had. We asked him to describe her. "Well, she has white skin, and red hair in a pony tail." I'm not describing it very well, but it was so funny. Every time I am around him, he does something that makes me think of Eli. He loves Lego video games like Star Wars and Indiana Jones and Batman, and even has a bag full of drawings of Lego characters. I suggested to him that he should be pen pals with Eli. We'll see if that idea takes off.
I'm sad to hear the Nielsons are moving. Saylor is my little nursery baby, but I guess even little nursery babies grow up and move away. She looks very grown up. Best wishes to them. They will be missed. Also, Cassidy, you look great in the photos Mom sent. You are beautiful. I can't wait to see my beautiful sister again. Eli, you look more grown up as well, but still the goofy, funny brother that I love. The one who really looks grown up is Macy! She looks like a three-year-old! Jace is already four. Tell him I'm not coming home in a month, but I will be in a few months. Hello to Cade, also, and the whole Marlow clan.
This week we were trying to contact a few referrals, but they haven't been home yet. It'll happen sometime this week, I'm sure of it. In the meantime, we keep teaching the people we already have to teach. There is a gentleman about 65 who just got married to a recent convert. They have been teaching him for 6 months or so. He is reading the Book of Mormon for the first time, and is already in Mosiah. We are teaching the husband of a member. He has already given up alcohol, and is working on stopping chewing tobacco. He is the closest to baptism. Keep him in your prayers. And there is another man, Andy, who is a brilliant retired man. He recently finished the Book of Mormon, but still wonders about many little details. I wish the Spirit could convince him that he could learn so much faster if he would receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. But he needs to stop smoking before that can happen, so maybe it's not so much his testimony as his willingness that's holding him back. Another investigator that we have has an amazing testimony, but again, can't stop smoking. It's a struggle to know what to do when you want to keep teaching them and keep them connected to the gospel but they really aren't progressing. Lastly, we are working with many returning to activity less-active individuals and families that are working on going to the temple, so hopefully we will be instruments of the Spirit to help them make those covenants if it is the right time in their lives.
Much love,
Sister Whitney Mikell Sorensen
PS Please shine!
PPS Go Federer! (Or Murray. Or Roddick. Or Nadal. In that order.)
Monday, June 21, 2010
6-21-10 "Tidbits from Texas"
The Tie: It's nice, isn't it? Actually, I got it from an investigator. One Saturday about three months ago, she and her family were having a garage sale on a Saturday morning, so we went over there to help them with it. Her husband had all these really nice ties for sale, and someone said something about not knowing how to tie a necktie. So he ended up teaching us all and then giving us the ties as a souvenir. I actually have pictures, too. But that's a really nice tie. Really nice. And, it kind of matches my pillowcases here. Strange but true.
I hadn't been in Katy very long before I met the ward mission leader, Bro. Walling. He said his in-laws are from Blackfoot. And since then he has called his father-in-law to see if he knows you all. The father-in-law's name is Bob Brown, and he thinks he knows a Phil Sorensen from his teacher's quorum, and even said he recently saw a Phil Sorensen when one of Phil's nephews was leaving on a mission in January or February, but we subsequently figured out that he is like ten years older than you, Dad. Plus, I can't remember any of your nephews going on a mission at that time this year. (Correct me if I'm wrong.) I suggested that maybe he knew one of your brothers. Anyway, do you know a Bob Brown from Blackfoot, any of you? Just wondering.
New doctor: Now that I am in Katy, I will need to find a new doctor, but I have refills on most prescriptions for at least the next month, so that shouldn't be too big of a deal.
New address: 2150 Katy Fort Bend #1027, Katy, TX 77493. You can use that zip code to try to find doctors in the area.
As far as Sister Tetreault calling you last week, this is what actually happened. We were at their house saying goodbye and having family home evening with them, one last time with me there, and Sister Mullins and she got to talking about housing at BYU-Idaho because Sister Mullins's brother is going there right now. And Sister Tetreault ended up calling Sister Mullins's mom and putting her on speaker phone and talking to her about housing and such. So then she was going to call you with similar questions, since you recently went through the whole trying to find freshman housing situation. But you didn't answer. No big deal. We did get to hear the answering machine messages. Sister Tetreault thought the one about Dad retrieving the kite from the powerlines was hilarious. Which it is. You are welcome to call her back and talk to her if you wish, though. Plus, I am unbelievably ecstatic about them coming to visit in late December/early January. I knew you would say yes. I just knew it. It'll be like my real Idaho family meeting my Texas family. And let me tell you: I've been dreaming about that paella forever. I can hardly wait, but I will.
As far as the when I come home thing, I'm fairly certain it'll be early December. Sisters can choose either to come home three weeks early or three weeks late, since our official eighteen month mark falls right in the middle of a transfer. I've always kind of leaned towards the early one because it means Christmas with the family and getting in to the Winter semester at BYU, instead of missing it by one week. Still, it's one of those things you should pray about after considerable thought, but it's good to know you think December is the right time, too. I'll keep you updated. I probably won't bring it up with President Hansen until next month or so. I don't want to appear overly eager to get home. Because I still have work to do here and I know it and I'm excited for it. But I'm anxious to see y'all as soon as possible.
Father's Day: Happy Father's Day, to Dad and Grandpa! I missed you all and thought of you all and thought that that time last year I was giving my going-away talk and we had everyone over at the house to play games and such. It hardly feels like a year has passed, now that it nearly has. I can't believe it's gone by this quickly. I'll be anxiously anticipating the 4th of July/year mark box. You know that holiday is my favorite. We may get the privilege of watching fireworks this year, too, because supposedly they go off right outside our apartment balcony. I'm crossing my fingers, although last year I was highly disappointed by the Staduim of Fire offerings. I think I just have high standards after being raised in Idaho Falls. They really are the best there.
I will send Cody a little note today. I hope he's doing well, although I don't really doubt it. Still, I keep him in my thoughts a lot and prayers just as often. Speaking of mail, I got a postcard from Elise in London this week. And a few weeks ago I got a letter from Maegan O'Toole Baxter saying her baby is due in early July, I think. Wiley Joseph will be his name. Keep me posted if you hear any news. I'm very excited for them. Apparently, Joe graduated from Utah State this year, but is still searching for jobs.
I promise more detailed news next week, as well as an introduction to Katy. So far, it has fewer trees than Tomball, which means you can tell a lot easier how flat it is here. Seriously, I didn't think any place could be this flat. I need mountains to thrive and survive, but in the meantime I'm doing okay without them.
I might get a haircut today. My bangs are getting too long to manage anymore, and there's just too much of it in the summer heat. I hope it doesn't turn into a disaster.
Well, it's off to play Phase 10 at an retirement resort. Wish me luck. I'll get in the game, Bane.
Love,
Sister Whitney Sorensen
PS Please Shine
PPS There is this young couple in the Katy ward that lives in our apartment complex, and when we went over there for dinner this week, apparently my fame had preceded me, because one of the first things they said to me was, "So, we hear you like quoting movies." We then proceeded to quote the best scene from the best movie: "Presidential flashcards?" Gales of laughter ensued. And in case you didn't catch it, I snuck in another quote from That Thing You Do. See if you can find it. Actually it's kind of a paraphrase. In fact, I'll just tell you so it won't be bugging you all week. Remember when they are at Villapianos for the first time, and the dorky kid requests "That Thing You Do" and Lenny squints, puts his hand over his eyes and says, "Has our fame preceeded us?" Hilarious.
I hadn't been in Katy very long before I met the ward mission leader, Bro. Walling. He said his in-laws are from Blackfoot. And since then he has called his father-in-law to see if he knows you all. The father-in-law's name is Bob Brown, and he thinks he knows a Phil Sorensen from his teacher's quorum, and even said he recently saw a Phil Sorensen when one of Phil's nephews was leaving on a mission in January or February, but we subsequently figured out that he is like ten years older than you, Dad. Plus, I can't remember any of your nephews going on a mission at that time this year. (Correct me if I'm wrong.) I suggested that maybe he knew one of your brothers. Anyway, do you know a Bob Brown from Blackfoot, any of you? Just wondering.
New doctor: Now that I am in Katy, I will need to find a new doctor, but I have refills on most prescriptions for at least the next month, so that shouldn't be too big of a deal.
New address: 2150 Katy Fort Bend #1027, Katy, TX 77493. You can use that zip code to try to find doctors in the area.
As far as Sister Tetreault calling you last week, this is what actually happened. We were at their house saying goodbye and having family home evening with them, one last time with me there, and Sister Mullins and she got to talking about housing at BYU-Idaho because Sister Mullins's brother is going there right now. And Sister Tetreault ended up calling Sister Mullins's mom and putting her on speaker phone and talking to her about housing and such. So then she was going to call you with similar questions, since you recently went through the whole trying to find freshman housing situation. But you didn't answer. No big deal. We did get to hear the answering machine messages. Sister Tetreault thought the one about Dad retrieving the kite from the powerlines was hilarious. Which it is. You are welcome to call her back and talk to her if you wish, though. Plus, I am unbelievably ecstatic about them coming to visit in late December/early January. I knew you would say yes. I just knew it. It'll be like my real Idaho family meeting my Texas family. And let me tell you: I've been dreaming about that paella forever. I can hardly wait, but I will.
As far as the when I come home thing, I'm fairly certain it'll be early December. Sisters can choose either to come home three weeks early or three weeks late, since our official eighteen month mark falls right in the middle of a transfer. I've always kind of leaned towards the early one because it means Christmas with the family and getting in to the Winter semester at BYU, instead of missing it by one week. Still, it's one of those things you should pray about after considerable thought, but it's good to know you think December is the right time, too. I'll keep you updated. I probably won't bring it up with President Hansen until next month or so. I don't want to appear overly eager to get home. Because I still have work to do here and I know it and I'm excited for it. But I'm anxious to see y'all as soon as possible.
Father's Day: Happy Father's Day, to Dad and Grandpa! I missed you all and thought of you all and thought that that time last year I was giving my going-away talk and we had everyone over at the house to play games and such. It hardly feels like a year has passed, now that it nearly has. I can't believe it's gone by this quickly. I'll be anxiously anticipating the 4th of July/year mark box. You know that holiday is my favorite. We may get the privilege of watching fireworks this year, too, because supposedly they go off right outside our apartment balcony. I'm crossing my fingers, although last year I was highly disappointed by the Staduim of Fire offerings. I think I just have high standards after being raised in Idaho Falls. They really are the best there.
I will send Cody a little note today. I hope he's doing well, although I don't really doubt it. Still, I keep him in my thoughts a lot and prayers just as often. Speaking of mail, I got a postcard from Elise in London this week. And a few weeks ago I got a letter from Maegan O'Toole Baxter saying her baby is due in early July, I think. Wiley Joseph will be his name. Keep me posted if you hear any news. I'm very excited for them. Apparently, Joe graduated from Utah State this year, but is still searching for jobs.
I promise more detailed news next week, as well as an introduction to Katy. So far, it has fewer trees than Tomball, which means you can tell a lot easier how flat it is here. Seriously, I didn't think any place could be this flat. I need mountains to thrive and survive, but in the meantime I'm doing okay without them.
I might get a haircut today. My bangs are getting too long to manage anymore, and there's just too much of it in the summer heat. I hope it doesn't turn into a disaster.
Well, it's off to play Phase 10 at an retirement resort. Wish me luck. I'll get in the game, Bane.
Love,
Sister Whitney Sorensen
PS Please Shine
PPS There is this young couple in the Katy ward that lives in our apartment complex, and when we went over there for dinner this week, apparently my fame had preceded me, because one of the first things they said to me was, "So, we hear you like quoting movies." We then proceeded to quote the best scene from the best movie: "Presidential flashcards?" Gales of laughter ensued. And in case you didn't catch it, I snuck in another quote from That Thing You Do. See if you can find it. Actually it's kind of a paraphrase. In fact, I'll just tell you so it won't be bugging you all week. Remember when they are at Villapianos for the first time, and the dorky kid requests "That Thing You Do" and Lenny squints, puts his hand over his eyes and says, "Has our fame preceeded us?" Hilarious.
Monday, June 14, 2010
6-14-10 "Tearin' Up My Heart"
While sitting here, I just glanced over and noticed that I am right next to the literature section of the Tomball College Library. I also realized they only have three or four shelves of it. Not enough. Travesty. Just thought I'd share that observation with you.
This morning, as we were about to leave the apartment, I looked in the mirror and got the most scathingly brilliant idea. When I return from my mission, I can keep wearing my missionary outfits for an unspecified period of time, long enough for my friends or family to nominate me for "What Not to Wear." That way, I will be able to get an amazing new wardrobe for free, a great haircut from Nick Arojo, and insulted on national television. Actually, I think I look cute today. But, sister missionary cute, not regular, 22-year-old college student cute. But the day when I will is not far off. I just thought it was a clever idea. But I don't actually think I would be able to part with some of these clothes. I LOVE, for instance, that grey skirt you sent me for my birthday. I'm wearing it right now.
And I couldn't be happier. Well, I'm not sure if you guessed from the subject line or not, but the day has finally come. I am going to be leaving Tomball and going to Katy, Texas, to once again be companions with Sister Smith. Actually, I'm very excited and not exactly nervous, but, in the immortal words of 'NSYNC: "It's tearin' up my heart" to leave Tomball. I could not sleep at all on Saturday night after I got the news. I cried on the way to church yesterday. I cried when I told the ward mission leader I was leaving. He actually got choked up a little bit, too. If anyone has been my almost father in this ward, it's Brother Roye. He and Sister Roye only have sons, but I think somehow they're getting a little taste of having daughters through having all the sister missionaries around. Plus, he said some of the nicest, most sincere things anyone has ever said to me. He told me he really appreciated my calm and patient influence on the ward and the work and the area and his family. He said I have a quiet, peaceful demeanor, and that he knows I have had an impact on this area, even if I can't see what it was. If I hadn't been crying before he started saying all those nice things, I certainly would have been afterward. Somehow I held it together when I told Sis. Tetreault I was leaving. She made the insightful comment, "Well, somebody needs you there." And I know she's right. In the end, I know this is the right thing and the exact right time. Anytime before this would have been too soon, and anytime after this would be too late, but I couldn't have known that until I actually reached this moment. And it really is tearin' up my heart to leave. I know I've said it before, but this area has become my hometown in Texas. Leaving here is in some ways harder than leaving my real hometown, because I'm not sure when I'll get back here. Actually, it was kind of poetic to have yesterday be my last Sunday here, first because it was a missionary going-away for the bishop's son. All the speakers kept talking about how some missionaries don't know what an impact they have. One of the members of the ward, a man who joined the church a year and a half ago with his wife said this: "I've never served a mission but I've served a lot of missionaries. Dinner." And then he said, "Many of the missionaries I met through the years have no idea where I am today. But they did make an impact on me." Sister Mullins just kept looking at me the whole time, with a friendly look of, "See, God's nicely saying, 'I told you so.' " Which He did. But nicely. Plus, since next Sunday is Father's day, it'll have been exactly one year since I gave my own going-away talk. I can hardly believe it. I hope I can give as much in Katy as I've given here. Because I think I gave more than I originally realized. The slogan for Tomball is "Hometown with Heart." It's certainly got mine. I even keep thinking I could sing, "I left my heart, in Tomball, Texas." It has just the right number of syllables.
Okay, enough of that. But I'll have you know I didn't cry once while writing it. Maybe I'm still kind of in denial, but I can't entirely be. For instance, I already sent a box of stuff to the house from me. Mostly just letters and trinkets I've collected but won't have room to transport with me. Watch for it. You can open it if you want.
Next item of business. New Year's. About a month ago, we were at the Tetreault's house, and we figured out that they will be coming to Idaho in late December to drop off their son at BYU-Idaho. I got all ecstatic and said, "You can come and see me at my house and meet my family!" She got very excited, too. But, she also says I should go through the formality of making sure it's okay with y'all that they come and see us. Even though I keep assuring her that they are always welcome, and not only welcome but encouraged to stop by and stay for a while. Seriously, I think knowing that I will have a chance to see them again, especially in my own neck of the world, is what makes parting from them now not such a big hurt. So, you can say no if you want to, but I know you well enough to know that you want to say yes. And will. So her next question is, are snow chains outlawed in Idaho? She heard they were, but I have no idea. E-mail her and let her know.
So, what did I do with my last week in Tomball? Actually, Sister Mullins has been sick since Wednesday, so I actually spent most of in in the apartment, trying not to go crazy with only the scriptures and Ensigns as reading material. If I had known I was leaving, I could have been packing, but at least part of my heart was holding out on staying a little while longer, so I couldn't do it. I'm not worried; everything will fit. But, amid all my pondering time this week, I realized something amazing. "P.S." as in post script on a letter or an e-mail could also stand for "Please Shine." So, from now on, I will not close a letter or an e-mail without writing, "P.S. Please Shine." Or even "Please Shine. I love you." Now that's poetic.
Eli, you really are the best little brother ever. I can't believe you considered waiting all that time to see Toy Story 3 with me instead of without me. I would never expect you to wait that long. But you really love me, and I want you to know I really love you. The moster. More. To infinity (or eternity, whichever comes first) and beyond. I will definitely be looking for ways to use those Toy Story quotes, and more, this week. Just. For. You. Also, this week while I was in the apartment, I randomly thought of one of my favorite Home Alone quotes. "When I grow up and get married, I'm livin' alone!" Good luck on that one, Kevin, although with the way MaCauly (sp? case in point, why you should not give your children weird names) Culkin looks now...no, don't write that Sister Sorensen. That's cruel. You are a representative of Jesus Christ and he is a child of God. But, when I grow up and get married, I probably won't be living alone. Also, the image of Eli doing the flying crane is permanently imprinted on my mind. I cannot wait to see it live, so keep practicing, Buddy. And remember, "Johnny, you're a cream puff." If I remember correctly, I kind of like the love story in Karate Kid 2 better, but it also has that Peter Cetera love song, something about castles and knights. Maybe I'm remembering another movie. Best of luck with baseball, and watch out for those banana peels. They're killer.
Thanks for the lilacs. They look amazing! I can almost smell them.
Love,
Sister Whitney Mikell Sorensen
P.S. Please Shine!
P.P.S. I hope this letter has more of my long missing pizzaz. I think it's back.
P.P.P.S. Tell the Davis family hello from me, and thanks for the compliments. I actually, weirdly enough, had a dream with Michael Davis in it this week. I was at some house with some of the missionaries from here and him and everyone was getting ready to go to the temple. ??? Who knows what that means.
This morning, as we were about to leave the apartment, I looked in the mirror and got the most scathingly brilliant idea. When I return from my mission, I can keep wearing my missionary outfits for an unspecified period of time, long enough for my friends or family to nominate me for "What Not to Wear." That way, I will be able to get an amazing new wardrobe for free, a great haircut from Nick Arojo, and insulted on national television. Actually, I think I look cute today. But, sister missionary cute, not regular, 22-year-old college student cute. But the day when I will is not far off. I just thought it was a clever idea. But I don't actually think I would be able to part with some of these clothes. I LOVE, for instance, that grey skirt you sent me for my birthday. I'm wearing it right now.
And I couldn't be happier. Well, I'm not sure if you guessed from the subject line or not, but the day has finally come. I am going to be leaving Tomball and going to Katy, Texas, to once again be companions with Sister Smith. Actually, I'm very excited and not exactly nervous, but, in the immortal words of 'NSYNC: "It's tearin' up my heart" to leave Tomball. I could not sleep at all on Saturday night after I got the news. I cried on the way to church yesterday. I cried when I told the ward mission leader I was leaving. He actually got choked up a little bit, too. If anyone has been my almost father in this ward, it's Brother Roye. He and Sister Roye only have sons, but I think somehow they're getting a little taste of having daughters through having all the sister missionaries around. Plus, he said some of the nicest, most sincere things anyone has ever said to me. He told me he really appreciated my calm and patient influence on the ward and the work and the area and his family. He said I have a quiet, peaceful demeanor, and that he knows I have had an impact on this area, even if I can't see what it was. If I hadn't been crying before he started saying all those nice things, I certainly would have been afterward. Somehow I held it together when I told Sis. Tetreault I was leaving. She made the insightful comment, "Well, somebody needs you there." And I know she's right. In the end, I know this is the right thing and the exact right time. Anytime before this would have been too soon, and anytime after this would be too late, but I couldn't have known that until I actually reached this moment. And it really is tearin' up my heart to leave. I know I've said it before, but this area has become my hometown in Texas. Leaving here is in some ways harder than leaving my real hometown, because I'm not sure when I'll get back here. Actually, it was kind of poetic to have yesterday be my last Sunday here, first because it was a missionary going-away for the bishop's son. All the speakers kept talking about how some missionaries don't know what an impact they have. One of the members of the ward, a man who joined the church a year and a half ago with his wife said this: "I've never served a mission but I've served a lot of missionaries. Dinner." And then he said, "Many of the missionaries I met through the years have no idea where I am today. But they did make an impact on me." Sister Mullins just kept looking at me the whole time, with a friendly look of, "See, God's nicely saying, 'I told you so.' " Which He did. But nicely. Plus, since next Sunday is Father's day, it'll have been exactly one year since I gave my own going-away talk. I can hardly believe it. I hope I can give as much in Katy as I've given here. Because I think I gave more than I originally realized. The slogan for Tomball is "Hometown with Heart." It's certainly got mine. I even keep thinking I could sing, "I left my heart, in Tomball, Texas." It has just the right number of syllables.
Okay, enough of that. But I'll have you know I didn't cry once while writing it. Maybe I'm still kind of in denial, but I can't entirely be. For instance, I already sent a box of stuff to the house from me. Mostly just letters and trinkets I've collected but won't have room to transport with me. Watch for it. You can open it if you want.
Next item of business. New Year's. About a month ago, we were at the Tetreault's house, and we figured out that they will be coming to Idaho in late December to drop off their son at BYU-Idaho. I got all ecstatic and said, "You can come and see me at my house and meet my family!" She got very excited, too. But, she also says I should go through the formality of making sure it's okay with y'all that they come and see us. Even though I keep assuring her that they are always welcome, and not only welcome but encouraged to stop by and stay for a while. Seriously, I think knowing that I will have a chance to see them again, especially in my own neck of the world, is what makes parting from them now not such a big hurt. So, you can say no if you want to, but I know you well enough to know that you want to say yes. And will. So her next question is, are snow chains outlawed in Idaho? She heard they were, but I have no idea. E-mail her and let her know.
So, what did I do with my last week in Tomball? Actually, Sister Mullins has been sick since Wednesday, so I actually spent most of in in the apartment, trying not to go crazy with only the scriptures and Ensigns as reading material. If I had known I was leaving, I could have been packing, but at least part of my heart was holding out on staying a little while longer, so I couldn't do it. I'm not worried; everything will fit. But, amid all my pondering time this week, I realized something amazing. "P.S." as in post script on a letter or an e-mail could also stand for "Please Shine." So, from now on, I will not close a letter or an e-mail without writing, "P.S. Please Shine." Or even "Please Shine. I love you." Now that's poetic.
Eli, you really are the best little brother ever. I can't believe you considered waiting all that time to see Toy Story 3 with me instead of without me. I would never expect you to wait that long. But you really love me, and I want you to know I really love you. The moster. More. To infinity (or eternity, whichever comes first) and beyond. I will definitely be looking for ways to use those Toy Story quotes, and more, this week. Just. For. You. Also, this week while I was in the apartment, I randomly thought of one of my favorite Home Alone quotes. "When I grow up and get married, I'm livin' alone!" Good luck on that one, Kevin, although with the way MaCauly (sp? case in point, why you should not give your children weird names) Culkin looks now...no, don't write that Sister Sorensen. That's cruel. You are a representative of Jesus Christ and he is a child of God. But, when I grow up and get married, I probably won't be living alone. Also, the image of Eli doing the flying crane is permanently imprinted on my mind. I cannot wait to see it live, so keep practicing, Buddy. And remember, "Johnny, you're a cream puff." If I remember correctly, I kind of like the love story in Karate Kid 2 better, but it also has that Peter Cetera love song, something about castles and knights. Maybe I'm remembering another movie. Best of luck with baseball, and watch out for those banana peels. They're killer.
Thanks for the lilacs. They look amazing! I can almost smell them.
Love,
Sister Whitney Mikell Sorensen
P.S. Please Shine!
P.P.S. I hope this letter has more of my long missing pizzaz. I think it's back.
P.P.P.S. Tell the Davis family hello from me, and thanks for the compliments. I actually, weirdly enough, had a dream with Michael Davis in it this week. I was at some house with some of the missionaries from here and him and everyone was getting ready to go to the temple. ??? Who knows what that means.
Monday, June 7, 2010
6-7-10 "Where There is Darkness, Light"
There is a great song on the BYU Men's chorus CD you sent me a while back, Mom, with the subject line in it. We were listening to it this morning on the way to e-mail, and as I sat pondering what to title it, I thought it would be perfect. Because I am happy to report that I have felt the weight of your prayers in my behalf, already received the amazing letter from Dad, and I believe with optimism that I am finally over the hump of despair I have been in for a few weeks. We got to attend the temple this week, and I have never felt more peaceful in the celestial room. Maybe the darkening opposition around me in the world was just the opposition I needed to feel so at peace in there. I still struggled a little bit after that, but Dad's letter arrived just in time. I have been studying about the Atonement in Jesus the Christ, which also enlightened my mind quite a bit and helped me find a more eternal perspective. Through it all, I joy that I never questioned my testimony of the truth, but only my own ability to live in accordance with that truth. The Spirit has spoken peace to my mind and heart that I can, in fact, do the hard things that are asked of me because the Savior's power is always there to help. So, where there was darkness: LIGHT. (Also, we both had a good laugh about the "friendly reminder to visit the temple." It's hanging on the wall.)
The French Open: All congratulations to Nadal. Obviously, I was holding out for Federer, but if he doesn't win, than I would be cheering for Nadal any day. I hope their rivalry can heat up again, just in time for Wimbledon, but of course, I also hope that Andy Murray at some point wins Wimbledon, since he is a Brit. Speaking of Brit, the newsstands are all ablaze with news of Prince William's impending nuptials. When is the big day? Hopefully, I will be able to witness it with my own eyes. I always planned to have a big Royal Wedding Party when one of the princes finally tied the knot. It will certainly be a big to do. Secretariat: Hooray! Now, excuse my asking, but Secretariat is the last horse to win the triple crown right? Or at least one of the most legendary? He's from the 70s, right? I'm really not sure of any of this, but I think I tried to read a book about his groom last year before I left on my mission, but I got too busy doing other things. I am ecstatic. Seriously, the only movies I'll ever need to watch for the rest of my life are sports movies. I can't get enough of them. They should have their own category at the Oscars. I love them that much. Not that the Oscars actually mean very much.
Many words of love: Truly, I can't thank you enough for the words of love you send my way. I know they were inspired and I know you always support me. It is because of my family that I know I have the strength to endure this. You all (read: y'all) truly are my inspiration. I'm sorry I made you cry last week. I knew that would happen, but I also knew that if I was going through a hard time, you would want to know and you would know how to help me. Which is true. Much love. More than I can express, I send my love to you.
Constant rain: Is it really raining a bunch there? Everyone keeps mentioning it. I'd say enjoy it. It'll keep it cool, and it won't be like here. When it rains here, the minute it stops, the air is three times as muggy and humid. Gross.
Eli the missionary: I cracked up and got very excited when I read the story about Eli teahing an invisible investigator. Way to go, buddy! You will be--and already are--a great missionary. You make me proud every day. Keep doing your thing. I miss you and love you the moster, but remember, I'll be right here. I have a joke for you. Why was E.T. afraid of checking the mailbox? Because he had such a big phone bill! I don't think that's the exact right way to tell it, but I can't remember it, and I wanted to share it with you anyway.
Dog and leash scar: I'm including some pictures of me at the animal shelter with my favorite dog, China the Chihuahua. I don't know why I like this dog, except that she's totally quiet and will just 
sit in your lap. The only thing wrong with her is that she hates men and barks at any that come near her. Also, I got a little leash burn a few weeks ago on my ring finger. One of the dogs tried to get away, and as I tried to pull it in on the leash, it dragged across my finger. I hope it grosses you out just a little bit, but know that it's healing very well.
Also, there's a picture of Sister Mullins and I at the temple this week. Enjoy. Mostly, I just want you all to know that I'm happy and healthy and doing well. I love you and I will keep my chin up. 
Much love and shining,
Sister Whitney Sorensen
The French Open: All congratulations to Nadal. Obviously, I was holding out for Federer, but if he doesn't win, than I would be cheering for Nadal any day. I hope their rivalry can heat up again, just in time for Wimbledon, but of course, I also hope that Andy Murray at some point wins Wimbledon, since he is a Brit. Speaking of Brit, the newsstands are all ablaze with news of Prince William's impending nuptials. When is the big day? Hopefully, I will be able to witness it with my own eyes. I always planned to have a big Royal Wedding Party when one of the princes finally tied the knot. It will certainly be a big to do. Secretariat: Hooray! Now, excuse my asking, but Secretariat is the last horse to win the triple crown right? Or at least one of the most legendary? He's from the 70s, right? I'm really not sure of any of this, but I think I tried to read a book about his groom last year before I left on my mission, but I got too busy doing other things. I am ecstatic. Seriously, the only movies I'll ever need to watch for the rest of my life are sports movies. I can't get enough of them. They should have their own category at the Oscars. I love them that much. Not that the Oscars actually mean very much.Many words of love: Truly, I can't thank you enough for the words of love you send my way. I know they were inspired and I know you always support me. It is because of my family that I know I have the strength to endure this. You all (read: y'all) truly are my inspiration. I'm sorry I made you cry last week. I knew that would happen, but I also knew that if I was going through a hard time, you would want to know and you would know how to help me. Which is true. Much love. More than I can express, I send my love to you.
Constant rain: Is it really raining a bunch there? Everyone keeps mentioning it. I'd say enjoy it. It'll keep it cool, and it won't be like here. When it rains here, the minute it stops, the air is three times as muggy and humid. Gross.
Eli the missionary: I cracked up and got very excited when I read the story about Eli teahing an invisible investigator. Way to go, buddy! You will be--and already are--a great missionary. You make me proud every day. Keep doing your thing. I miss you and love you the moster, but remember, I'll be right here. I have a joke for you. Why was E.T. afraid of checking the mailbox? Because he had such a big phone bill! I don't think that's the exact right way to tell it, but I can't remember it, and I wanted to share it with you anyway.
Dog and leash scar: I'm including some pictures of me at the animal shelter with my favorite dog, China the Chihuahua. I don't know why I like this dog, except that she's totally quiet and will just sit in your lap. The only thing wrong with her is that she hates men and barks at any that come near her. Also, I got a little leash burn a few weeks ago on my ring finger. One of the dogs tried to get away, and as I tried to pull it in on the leash, it dragged across my finger. I hope it grosses you out just a little bit, but know that it's healing very well.Also, there's a picture of Sister Mullins and I at the temple this week. Enjoy. Mostly, I just want you all to know that I'm happy and healthy and doing well. I love you and I will keep my chin up. Much love and shining,Sister Whitney Sorensen
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
6-1-10 "June is my Favorite Cleaver"
I thought of that subject line yesterday when I knew it was the last day of May but I wouldn't get to e-mail you until the first day of June. She really is my favorite. She always has on her trendy, chic 50s housewife dresses, but that doesn't stop her from untangling Beaver's messes and keeping the house perfectly tidy and otherwise saving the civilized world. Actually, my favorite character on Leave It to Beaver is Eddie Haskell. He's such a conniving, hypocritical little brown-noser, but he is so obvious about it that everyone kind of knows anyway. If he stopped doing it, that would be the truly conniving and hypocritical thing. He's a lot like Derek from Life with Derek actually, come to think of it.
Hmmm, this week. We got to go to a luncheon for volunteers at the food pantry where we volunteer every Tuesday. That was neat because it was at an Episcopal church, and a guest pastor got up and told all about how his mother had promised the Lord that he would become a preacher. Mostly, it was just nice to be there with friends I have made in this area. One of our investigators told us last Tuesday that she "doesn't feel comfortable praying about Joseph Smith." That surprised me, because when we originally told her the story, she said she thought it was possible.
I'm sorry to hear about Tucker Nielson. That is tragic. I wish I knew something I could do for them. Congratulations to Ronnie. She will be getting married on the day I went into the MTC last year. What an anniversary. I'm glad Ashley Crockett is home safe. I'm sure she was an amazing missionary. Also happy to hear that Michael Davis is back. I wonder if it's as hard to stop speaking Korean as it is to stop speaking Spanish.
Did you go to the grave party? I thought about you all yesterday, thinking what a fun tradition that is in our family. Sorry this is so disjointed today. My mind is kind of scatter-brained and on overload.
Love you all,
Sister Whitney Mikell Sorensen
Hmmm, this week. We got to go to a luncheon for volunteers at the food pantry where we volunteer every Tuesday. That was neat because it was at an Episcopal church, and a guest pastor got up and told all about how his mother had promised the Lord that he would become a preacher. Mostly, it was just nice to be there with friends I have made in this area. One of our investigators told us last Tuesday that she "doesn't feel comfortable praying about Joseph Smith." That surprised me, because when we originally told her the story, she said she thought it was possible.
I'm sorry to hear about Tucker Nielson. That is tragic. I wish I knew something I could do for them. Congratulations to Ronnie. She will be getting married on the day I went into the MTC last year. What an anniversary. I'm glad Ashley Crockett is home safe. I'm sure she was an amazing missionary. Also happy to hear that Michael Davis is back. I wonder if it's as hard to stop speaking Korean as it is to stop speaking Spanish.
Did you go to the grave party? I thought about you all yesterday, thinking what a fun tradition that is in our family. Sorry this is so disjointed today. My mind is kind of scatter-brained and on overload.
Love you all,
Sister Whitney Mikell Sorensen
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