06-30-2011

Hello everyone!
How are you all doing this week?! This past week has been crazy. There have been a lot of changes within my companionship which was unexpected, but it's been great and has made me realize that missions are constantly changing! I'll get more to that in a few minutes! Thank you for your letters, it is always good to hear from you and all of the latest & greatest happenings in the Robinson fam.
This week, I am going to do a crazy moments of the week: I got a new companion Thursday! It was crazy and totally unexpected. It's kind of confusing though. Her name is Hermana Clayton and she arrived here last Wednesday. She was in the beginning spanish district to begin with, but because she knows and understands a lot more spanish than a beginner they tested her and she moved up to an advanced district. She moved up to a district with all elders and so she is what you call a "solo" sister her at the MTC. Technically, I am her companion, but when it comes to class and teaching, things like that she is solo and I'm still in a companionship with Hma. Eborn and Stephens. It's kinda crazy to coordinate our schedules with us having different things going on, but it works out and she is so great! She moved into our room that night and everything. She is from Houston, Texas and going to San Fernando, California (spanish speaking) on her mission. So yes, this past week has been one of change but I think it's necessary that I realize and learn that now so I'll be more prepared for the field! I am blessed with three companions now! :]
Favorite moment of this past week: I was able to be a host yesterday to all of the new sisters coming in the MTC! Wow, it was so much fun & I was so excited. I remember my first day so vividly and the craziness that it was, but I absolutely loved it. I was so happy to be able to take part in that for the new sisters coming in. I helped about 5 sisters yesterday! I helped thee cutest sisters from Korea. They were so happy and cute, it made me so happy. I have met so many different people here and I am amazed at EACH missionary and how strong each one is. The Lord needs each one of us and it's so apparent when I get to know them.
Miracle moment: There are little miracles or "tender mercies" of the Lord in all of our lives each day, it's just a matter of recognizing them! One thing I've realized this week is how much I LOVE the scriptures. I've always loved the scriptures, but being here and studying them each day has taught me that the scriptures really do have EVERY answer. I want to get better at knowing more references off the top of my head and becoming a lot more familiar with all of the stories! The scriptures are literally a instruction book for this life. I have found that to be true while being here. Also, I have come to recognize how powerful prayer is and how it can instantly change your mood and negative feelings you may have. It uplifts, encourages, and helps you throughout the day. I love prayer and I love the scriptures!
Today at breakfast I met two Elders going to Santa Rosa, California! I get so excited when I meet someone from that area or when I meet missionaries going to my same area! There are two sisters in the beginning spanish class that arrived here the same time I did that are going to Santa Rosa as well. They are so sweet and I've kind of got to know them here and there! Anyway, I hadn't met any Elders going to my same mission yet. I was really excited to meet them though! One was from Sri Lanka and one was from Samoa, they are going english speaking and just arrived yesterday. They will be leaving the same time as I do, so we'll all be heading to Santa Rosa together (when you already know the language of your mission, you spend three weeks here). I let them know that they're like my family and best friends now, haha.
I only have about two and a half more weeks here and I'm getting more and more excited. I don't exactly feel like a "real" missionary because I'm still here in the MTC but I know I am. It just will be crazy to actually get in the field. I am trying to soak up and embrace every moment here!
Scriptures for the week: 3 Nephi 11:15; Matthew 11: 28-30; and John 10:1-16. All of those are such comforting scriptures that let us all know that Christ loves and knows us individually and that He is our Savior. I am so thankful to have this Gospel in my life and to be able to go share it with others.
I love you all so much and am so thankful for EACH one of you in my life.

Con mucho amor,

Hermana Robinson