First of all, I have to ask: did the chickens have large talons? Just wondering... Between chickens and goats and waterparks and scout camp and Blue Angels and Cassidy coming home it sounds like you all had a very busy week. That's funny; I was thinking about the Nukayas a lot this week. They were just on my mind. Maybe it's because Sister Smith and I have been listening to some Christmas music, so I've been thinking about Christmas Eve and Christmas and just general family goodness. Not that I'm not focusing on being a missionary, but I certainly always think of you every day. You're right, Mom, the time is growing closer, which means it's moving a lot faster than I ever remember it moving before. Next week I'll have interviews with President Hansen and I'll bring up the idea of when I'm going home and ask him about the ecclesiastical endorsement.
Busy is a good way to describe our week, too. We had plenty of service opportunities between helping a sister from the ward strip some wallpaper from her bathroom and doing our usual other service things. Also, we were very busy teaching and we even got to go to the temple on Friday night to do baptisms with the ward missionaries and the youth. We had a few miracles this week. We got a call from a new family in the ward, saying his brother who lives in the ward would like to start meeting with the missionaries. We are going to start teaching them tonight. Thinking about it gives me this nervous feeling in my gut, but I just shove it aside and trust that the Spirit will guide us as long as we are prepared. It's a big thing to be entrusted with someone's family when salvation is at stake, but I feel a bit like Esther lately: "Who knows but what you are come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" (I paraphrased a little bit there.) Plus, yesterday, this family just walked into church, having just moved to the area, looking for a church, and the wife has had many friends growing up who were LDS. Unfortunately, they live in another ward, but we'll probably go visit them first just because they've already met us and then we can pass over the teaching a little while later. Miracles. Ron had his baptismal interview on Friday and is all set for his baptism on Saturday. That will be one of the greatest miracles to occur yet. But actually, I think my favorite thing about seeing someone join the church is when they receive the gift of the Holy Ghost because that's when you really see their countenance start changing.
Speaking of which, I loved the story about Eli. It sounds like he is learning very well to use his gift. Even from afar, his desires to be in tune with the Spirit amaze me. First he rescues Reagan Sermon, and then he says you can all fast for me. And now he is learning to discern good and bad, right and wrong. The tender whisperings of the Spirit are maybe the greatest miracle of all.
And now, just behind the Blue Angels, something very grand on the horizon. Sadly Sister Smith is being transferred, but I will be getting a new companion. I don't even know her name yet, since she is still in the MTC, but I will meet her officially on Thursday morning. We will also get a special trip to the temple. I am typically really nervous about big changes like this, but I can feel the Spirit saying that everything will be okay and not to worry about anything. It will guide me, us, every step of the way. In the meantime, I will probably be brushing up on my Spanish for the next few days, since Sister Smith is leaving for her new area tomorrow. Details next week, and pictures.
Good luck to Maegan. Keep me posted. Hi back to Jack and Jack's wife. He's married, right? Congratulations to Ryan. He'll be great. Cassidy, as your friend pool continues to shrink, remember that I'm coming home to you as quickly as I can. Very soon in fact.
Love you all!
Sister Whitney Sorensen
P.S. Please shine. I am!
Monday, July 26, 2010
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
7-19-10 "The Hallelujah Chorus"
Greetings family. This has been an amazing week with many tender mercies from the Lord. Mom, I loved your story about the woman with RA and great cooking skills. She is a tender mercy and a new friend, I'm sure. This week, I got my own tender mercy at the temple. We went on Tuesday at noon, and there were not very many people in the session. You can fit about 50 in the ordinance room, and there were only 6 sisters and maybe 20 brethren. I was sitting by this beautiful sister who looked like she had Tongan or Samoan ancestry. She had an especially beautiful complexion. After the session she said something to me in the dressing room, and somewhere in the midst of our brief conversation I discovered that she had served a mission in Washington D.C., and she also gave me some acne gel that has been doing wonders for my face. I'm sure you all know that I have struggled with this demon for years, and I can just never seem to entirely overcome it. In the days leading up to this temple visit, I had resolved in my mind to go in focusing on myself as a child of God and to gain strength to just stop worrying about it. To see myself, truly and entirely, as a child of God with a worth that is already infinite and cannot be made less. Sometimes I feel like I'm doing good with it, and then someone, usually an elderly person or a really young kid, will point out, totally innocently my red spots. And while I keep on a brave face and try to pretend it doesn't affect me, inside I'm hiding a lot of sorrow in my quiet heart that the eye can't see. Anyway, I was determined to find renewed strength to conquer at least those worries in my temple visit, and I know, for certain, that me meeting that sister in the temple was a way of the Lord acknowledging my concern and promising me that He will take care of it in His own way and time. So I'm not acne free or anything right now, but I now have a very tangible experience to remember when those self-esteem stealing demons come a calling. Also, I find a lot of strength in writing positive messages for myself on the mirror, like "You are beautiful!" It really helps.
Another great thing happened this week while we were visiting with a lovely member of the ward who struggles with a lot of health issues that often keep her from coming to church. She is extremely creative and talented. She is something of a muse. I have great conversations with her about great writing and writers and movies and all such culture. This week she gave me a priceless gift: a huge dictionary. It's from the 1960s, and I'm not at all certain how I'm going to get it home when the time comes, but it is fabulous. Rhonda is just one of those people who gives things away on the spur of the moment from the goodness of her heart. I want to be like her one day. Another face and heart I will never forget from my precious, privileged time in Texas. We were also over there on Saturday night watching the Pioneer day broadcast from the Tabernacle Choir. So good! I know you all would have enjoyed it. Did you get to see it?
Lately, I've been studying and applying personal revelation, especially trying to recognize the different ways the Spirit speaks to me. One of the best I can only describe as a rush of love that comes upon me suddenly. I'll be paying attention in a meeting, or bowing my head in prayer, and all of the sudden I will feel this extension of love for the people I am with. I first noticed it in a meeting full of missionaries. I recently felt it with a member family I barely knew when we were having dinner. Love truly is a spiritual gift.
Sorry I can't write more. Time calls me to other duties. I love the pictures of Cotton Candy Facial hair, but I'm not sure who they are impersonating other than probably Abraham Lincoln.
Much love,
Sister Whitney Mikell Sorensen
PS I was fine on money. I didn't end up buying very much. I just need to buy a new journal today, since I only have a few pages left in this one, my third!
Another great thing happened this week while we were visiting with a lovely member of the ward who struggles with a lot of health issues that often keep her from coming to church. She is extremely creative and talented. She is something of a muse. I have great conversations with her about great writing and writers and movies and all such culture. This week she gave me a priceless gift: a huge dictionary. It's from the 1960s, and I'm not at all certain how I'm going to get it home when the time comes, but it is fabulous. Rhonda is just one of those people who gives things away on the spur of the moment from the goodness of her heart. I want to be like her one day. Another face and heart I will never forget from my precious, privileged time in Texas. We were also over there on Saturday night watching the Pioneer day broadcast from the Tabernacle Choir. So good! I know you all would have enjoyed it. Did you get to see it?
Lately, I've been studying and applying personal revelation, especially trying to recognize the different ways the Spirit speaks to me. One of the best I can only describe as a rush of love that comes upon me suddenly. I'll be paying attention in a meeting, or bowing my head in prayer, and all of the sudden I will feel this extension of love for the people I am with. I first noticed it in a meeting full of missionaries. I recently felt it with a member family I barely knew when we were having dinner. Love truly is a spiritual gift.
Sorry I can't write more. Time calls me to other duties. I love the pictures of Cotton Candy Facial hair, but I'm not sure who they are impersonating other than probably Abraham Lincoln.
Much love,
Sister Whitney Mikell Sorensen
PS I was fine on money. I didn't end up buying very much. I just need to buy a new journal today, since I only have a few pages left in this one, my third!
Monday, July 12, 2010
7-11-10 "Remarkable Randomness"
I think this week I should start with the best news, and then just work into the usual simple but newsy information. Last Wednesday night, a man we have been teaching set a date to be baptized. We were ecstatic! He still has a few obstacles to overcome, but he should be baptized on the 31st of July. Please pray that all will go well and that he will be able to make these covenants. I was especially overjoyed to be with Sister Smith when this happened, having been one of her first companions, because this was the first time she has had an investigator set a baptism date. It was so joyful to share that moment with her and to see the happiness and light in her as this happened. Alleluia!
Okay, now into the randomness. Sister Smith has this cd called "The Best of Janice Kapp Perry." It's pretty good, and there are some nice songs on there. One of them is called "The Least of These" or something like that. We've been listening to this cd for the last month, but I only ever really heard and understood the chorus to this song. Until yesterday. When we, on the way to church, heard the opening lines very clearly and distinctly: "I see her sitting all alone/ In a white and sterile nursing home..." We could not stop laughing! We both just looked at each other, as if to question if we both heard that. We did. I assure you. We've listened to it several times since then. It made me think of back when I was first in Tomball and we would have this game of sorts with the elders, each of us trying to find a stranger song lyric than the other for our weekly drive to Waller. It was one of those moments you just really want to share with your family as soon as possible, especially when you are a part of our family which loves sharing randomness with one another.
Speaking of which, yes, Mom, I do remember all those random moments. Particularly the one when we were "checked out" on 17th street. Vividly, actually, although I probably couldn't pick the perpetrators out of a line-up. In fact, you and I truly are mother and daughter because every week when I write my family e-mail to y'all, I make a short list so I won't forget anything and then go paragraph by paragraph and fill you in on my life. Here's a few moments of randomness from my life this week. One night I quoted as much of "You've Got Mail" as I could remember for Sister Smith while we were getting ready for bed. Yesterday we made a movie of us singing "High on the Mountaintop" while driving from one appointment to another.
And here's a slightly less random event from this week. We had zone meeting this week, where all the missionaries in the zone meet for about an hour and a half to get some training and inspiration. The mission has been focusing on the principle of endure to the end this transfer, so our zone meeting was focusing on that, too. The zone leaders created this experience where each companionship went through the life of one person. There was a room where we got blessings like being baptized and being sealed in the temple, but there were also rooms representing spiritual death and repentance. It was amazing. I wish I had more time to describe it. One of the repentance activities was on the stage. There was a table with four gross/scary foods to eat, and before it was explained what we would have to do, assumed we would have to eat one of these items. I was dreading it, just glaring at it while we read the scripture associated with it. But I just braced myself and decided to hunker down and do it. I almost bit into the habanero pepper, when I was told that I wouldn't actually have to do it--we got cookies instead. That's really how repentance is, sometimes. We think it's going to be horrible, but once we take that leap of faith, it is not that bad at all.
I did get your letter full of pictures. So great. It looks like y'all had a great fourth of July. Max looks like a little man, all grown up. And I couldn't stop laughing about the sign that said "Man Sale."
As for the movie quotes, I still have no idea what number one is, but I know realize the error of my ways. Number 2 is "Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl," and Sister Smith and I figured out right after we left the computers last week that number 3 is "On the Line." She loves that movie, too, by the way. What a kindred spirit we are in movies. I'll keep thinking about number one, but at this point I'm not even sure I've seen this movie.
We're going to the temple tomorrow. Yeah!
Love you all,
Sister Whitney Mikell Sorensen
PS Please Shine
PPS Did you do any checking about the ecclesiastical endorsement?
PPPS We went to a baptism on Saturday of a little boy about Eli's age and practically his twin. I'll send pictures next week when I remember to bring my camera. For just a moment it made me sad that I'd missed Eli's, but then I realized that the Lord had provided this tender mercy to let me be a part of another one.
Okay, now into the randomness. Sister Smith has this cd called "The Best of Janice Kapp Perry." It's pretty good, and there are some nice songs on there. One of them is called "The Least of These" or something like that. We've been listening to this cd for the last month, but I only ever really heard and understood the chorus to this song. Until yesterday. When we, on the way to church, heard the opening lines very clearly and distinctly: "I see her sitting all alone/ In a white and sterile nursing home..." We could not stop laughing! We both just looked at each other, as if to question if we both heard that. We did. I assure you. We've listened to it several times since then. It made me think of back when I was first in Tomball and we would have this game of sorts with the elders, each of us trying to find a stranger song lyric than the other for our weekly drive to Waller. It was one of those moments you just really want to share with your family as soon as possible, especially when you are a part of our family which loves sharing randomness with one another.
Speaking of which, yes, Mom, I do remember all those random moments. Particularly the one when we were "checked out" on 17th street. Vividly, actually, although I probably couldn't pick the perpetrators out of a line-up. In fact, you and I truly are mother and daughter because every week when I write my family e-mail to y'all, I make a short list so I won't forget anything and then go paragraph by paragraph and fill you in on my life. Here's a few moments of randomness from my life this week. One night I quoted as much of "You've Got Mail" as I could remember for Sister Smith while we were getting ready for bed. Yesterday we made a movie of us singing "High on the Mountaintop" while driving from one appointment to another.
And here's a slightly less random event from this week. We had zone meeting this week, where all the missionaries in the zone meet for about an hour and a half to get some training and inspiration. The mission has been focusing on the principle of endure to the end this transfer, so our zone meeting was focusing on that, too. The zone leaders created this experience where each companionship went through the life of one person. There was a room where we got blessings like being baptized and being sealed in the temple, but there were also rooms representing spiritual death and repentance. It was amazing. I wish I had more time to describe it. One of the repentance activities was on the stage. There was a table with four gross/scary foods to eat, and before it was explained what we would have to do, assumed we would have to eat one of these items. I was dreading it, just glaring at it while we read the scripture associated with it. But I just braced myself and decided to hunker down and do it. I almost bit into the habanero pepper, when I was told that I wouldn't actually have to do it--we got cookies instead. That's really how repentance is, sometimes. We think it's going to be horrible, but once we take that leap of faith, it is not that bad at all.
I did get your letter full of pictures. So great. It looks like y'all had a great fourth of July. Max looks like a little man, all grown up. And I couldn't stop laughing about the sign that said "Man Sale."
As for the movie quotes, I still have no idea what number one is, but I know realize the error of my ways. Number 2 is "Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl," and Sister Smith and I figured out right after we left the computers last week that number 3 is "On the Line." She loves that movie, too, by the way. What a kindred spirit we are in movies. I'll keep thinking about number one, but at this point I'm not even sure I've seen this movie.
We're going to the temple tomorrow. Yeah!
Love you all,
Sister Whitney Mikell Sorensen
PS Please Shine
PPS Did you do any checking about the ecclesiastical endorsement?
PPPS We went to a baptism on Saturday of a little boy about Eli's age and practically his twin. I'll send pictures next week when I remember to bring my camera. For just a moment it made me sad that I'd missed Eli's, but then I realized that the Lord had provided this tender mercy to let me be a part of another one.
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.
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