Bueno!

Dearest Family and Friends,

This week summer has hit us full force; when Mother Nature says it's summer, she means it. This morning we walked outside at about 6:30 and the heat hit us like a fist. It may be only 80 degrees, but the humidity makes it about 95. Keep in mind that I've lived most of my life in very dry Utah, so this whole humidity thing is new to me. I can already tell it's going to be a loooong summer! You have no idea how grateful I am for air conditioning and I tell Heavenly Father so each night in my prayers. Well, there are so many things I need to tell you and not very much time so let's get to the excitingness that is the Mormon Nun's life! Drum roll please!......

The most exciting news of this week is the fact that I have survived another transfer so I'll be staying in Gurnee for at least another 6 weeks! The night before President's call was supposed to come, I felt for sure that I wouldn't be spending another transfer in the area; I'd already been there for two. Tuesday morning, I refused to get out of bed until 6:30 because the call always seems to come while I'm in the bathroom. Thankfully, no call came, allowing mother and daughter to remain together for a little bit longer. Families are forever!

Last week I got a sad awakening. Sister Kolb and I were invited to a cooking night held by the Relief Society. We found out that a nonmember would be attending so we were allowed to go. Naturally, Sister Missionaries stand out in a crowd with their boring skirts, sensible shoes, and nametag on their chest, but that day I felt even more out of place. The women there have the amazing ability to discuss grocery shopping, husbands, jobs, children, latest fashions, world news...; my communication is limited to how many member presents we get each week, new investigators, upcoming baptisms, and how many times members feed us each day. Yep, I am definitely a missionary! My fingers are crossed that you'll all take pity on my topics of conversation when I arrive home next year. Don't worry, I'll adjust eventually!

Exciting news! As you all know, our investigator S****. will be getting baptized on July 11. I believe I have also mentioned an investigator by the name of CJA. If I haven't, I apologize. (Guess what? We have an investigator by the name of CJA.) Last week we had an awesome lesson with him and his family, allowing us to commit him to baptism at the end!!! I love my job! No date is set yet, but he's praying about one. Either way, it's exciting! Sister Kolb and I told President the exciting news as a farewell gift and he replied that it's the magic of the "Waters & Kolob" that allow these miracles to happen. I know better, though, and it's just Heavenly Father blessing us and leading us to those who are ready.

Speaking of farewells, President and Sister Stoddard head home to Las Vegas a week from today. Next week, President and Sister Doll will be taking over the Illinois Chicago North Mission. We had a goodbye party for them today and while it's a scary change-and you all know how I feel about change-it's also exciting. This call has been inspired and there's something for me to learn from the new President.

There's a lot more I would love to tell you, but time does not allow me to do so. However, I will tell you that I know this is the true church of Jesus Christ and that Joseph Smith really did restore it to the earth. How cool is that? This message is grand enough that the whole world needs to know about it, so get out there and open your mouths! Be brave! No fear! Love you lots! HUGS to all!

Sister Sara

P.S. Mosiah 3:5-10,13
2 Nephi 5:27

Short and Sweet

Dear Family and Friends,

Sadly there isn't too much for me to report on this week. The work continues to go well, but after having so many baptisms in the past few weeks Sister Kolb and I have turned our attention to finding new investigators. This means tracting: an activity that is not my favorite. However, I learned something very important this week from my Zone Leader, Elder Hudson: "even if you hate tracting with all of your heart, go out there and pretend that you love it." I've decided that tracting is about the same as waking up at 6:00 for exercise: the thought of doing it is horrid, but when it's done you realize it wasn't so bad.

Each morning when I read Preach My Gospel, I am reminded of the fact that I have made promises to Heavenly Father, one of those promises being that I have the responsibility to tell people about this message so I'd better open my mouth and let the words come out-despite how scared I may be. No fear!

I think the biggest highlight of this week was getting permission to go see the sun rise on Lake Michigan with the C's. Having the alarm clock go off at 4:20 was worth it just to see that glorious sight. I can't even describe it which is why I'll be sending pictures home shortly; then you can see it for yourselves. It goes without saying that I wish you could have been there with me.

As always my time is short so I must close. The church is true!

Sister Sara

We are not the ordinary, fearlessly extraordinary!

Dear Family and Friends,

I hope you don't get tired of reading each week about how well things are going in my corner of the world. If you are, I apologize, but I am happy to announce that it's been another wonderful week in the mission that is Illinois Chicago North. Are you curious? Are you excited? I'll wait a few seconds to add to the suspense............................

Okay. I can't wait anymore. I've gotta tell you. Here's the news: About two weeks ago, Sister Kolb and I received a member referral from Woodstock, my first area. This member is a recent convert of just over a year and has done a great job playing member missionary. The text said that this member would like his friend S**** to learn about the Gospel. So we gave her a call, set up an appointment, and had a wonderful first lesson. My favorite part of the first lesson is getting to know this child of God a little bit better: S**** has lived in the Waukegan area for most of her life, but it's been a struggle. Much to our surprise, she informed us that she's legally blind; it's been wonderful to see a testimony grow inside of a person that hasn't even been able to read the Book of Mormon yet. Still, it's growing. Several days after our first lesson, Sister Kolb and I both received the prompting to commit her to baptism. Without batting an eye, Sonja told us that she's been thinking about it for the past week and that it feels like the right thing to do. Yay! This gospel is so amazing!

That's the most exciting news, but not the only news. In February I was transferred from Woodstock and needless to say I was terrified; no other area would ever be as wonderful as my first. Well, many months have passed and I have been humbled. Even though last transfer was hard, it was made easier by so many people being willing to accept our message. I am immensely happy this transfer and my happiness keeps growing because I know I am moving God's work forward. I've written several times about Sister Clark, but each week she teaches me something that I need to share. Occasionally during our visits, she'll pretend to be an investigator and ask us to tell her about the church. Last week I had the opportunity to share my testimony with her and then she gave me one of the greatest compliments I could have received: "your testimony shines through your eyes." You can't imagine how good that made me feel! I'm always wondering if my testimony does "shine" and how bright the shine is, but Sister Clark made all concern disappear. Now the only thing I have to do is make sure that light continues to shine by devoting myself to obedience, study, and service. (Matthew 5:14-16)

Every Wednesday is busy, but today is even moreso. Many other things are happening, but those are the stories I thought you would most enjoy reading. I love this gospel and I love serving my Heavenly Father to allow others the opportunity to experience the joy I have in my life. Some people are shocked when I tell them that I am a representative of Jesus Christ, but it's true. His name is upon me and I have been called to tell the world this message.

I love you all!
Sister Sara

Maybe Yes, Maybe No

Dear Family and Friends,

Several weeks ago I mentioned a rumor that springs in the northern part of Illinois are just like a continuation of winter. Well, now that spring is almost over I can say it's true. Not only did we have several snow storms this spring, but the weather for the past few weeks has been more indecisive than I am when I'm trying to decide what to wear each day. When Sister Kolb and I awoke on Monday, the sky was very overcast so we decided to go to the gym. A few hours later, we got into the car and the temperature was 90 degrees! Fast forward about 5 hours and the temperature had dropped to 45! After that we received a huge downpour, but the day ended dry with a very lovely sunset. Sister Stoddard warned me that just like Illinois springs, Illinois summers are not traditional. Unlike Utah, it doesn't just get hot and stay hot; each day Mother Nature decides to mess with our minds. Well, I'm tired of being messed with and my fingers are crossed that soon I'll be enjoying the dog days of summer. Okay, I'm quickly getting off my soapbox so there will be enough time to tell you about some exciting events in the life of Sister Sara. On to the news!

Sister Kolb and I were blessed this past Saturday to witness the baptisms of J.M., S.D., and A.A.. Thankfully, the water heater was working this time and we received reports that the water was quite pleasant upon being submerged. I spoke on baptism and compared the event to a line from a song by Frank Sinatra: "it's a new dawn, it's a new day, it's a new life!..." That's exactly what baptism allows us to gain. The next day, all three of them were sustained as the newest members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and welcomed into the ward. Sunday was also Ward Conference so the Stake Presidency was there to witness this wonderful event. I think I've mentioned this in a previous letter, but I always get close to tears when I hear a blessing given to a new member. It's humbling to know that the words being said are from Heavenly Father, given through one worthy to hold the Priesthood.

To celebrate this occasion, my companion and I pulled our funds to get each of the new members a journal. We ordered S.D's from the LDS Bookstore in Chicago so it had her name engraved on it. Upon seeing that his had no engraving, J.M. made sure that we saw his disappointment. Reaching into our bags at the same time, Sister Kolb and I both produced a pen for him to have. He's a strange sort of grownup.

Many times since my arrival in Illinois, President has told us that our work is for the living and not for the dead. I have not had the privilege of attending the temple since October so I finally got up the courage to ask while I was my monthly President's interview. President looked at his records and mentioned that Sister Kolb had gone to the temple just a few weeks previous in Provo. Feeling quite brave, I agreed but said that she wasn't in the mission yet. President looked at me rather surprised, but then chuckled and granted his permission. Today, Elder and Sister C**** drove us the the Chicago temple so we could do a session. You can't even imagine how wonderful it felt to enter through the temple doors for the first time in many months. I'm realizing how important the temple is and how many more covenants are made there. Already I have a goal to attend the temple at least twice a month upon my return home.

Yesterday, I attended my last Zone Conference with President and Sister Stoddard. One of the main themes of this conference was obedience and many thoughts popped into my mind pertaining to my obedience as a missionary. While talking to my big brother on Mother's day, I mentioned that my time in Illinois is quickly coming to an end. "That may be true," he said, "but you still have plenty of time left to repeat all that happened in the first half." Thinking about that comment, I know I've worked hard these past few months, but now it's the time to work even harder; to toss all fear aside, to "forget myself and go to work," to do all that I have the ability to do. Yep, this is my time and I'm going to make an even better use of it this time around.

Wow. I just realized that I only have a few minutes to write President a letter about the excitingness that is Gurnee. I apologize for this abrupt end, but I must depart with some air hugs and kisses. Have a wonderful week and remember who you are!

Hugs!
Sister Sara

Just like the Energizer Bunny

Dear Family and Friends,

Each week seems to pass by more quickly than the last. It's hard to believe that May is almost over and that June will be here in just a few days. Despite the fact that each day is almost exactly like the one before it and it's hard to differentiate between days, I'm mostly enjoying the stability that this routine offers me. Each day I wake up at 6:00, exercise for 30 minutes, two hours of study, and then go to work. I've realized that the time spent wearing the black nametag has been the happiest time of my life so far and I'm somewhat in denial of it being half over.

Several months ago, I was at a transfer meeting and I recall a Sister being dragged in by her companion screaming, "I'm not ready to go! I'm going to be a missionary forever!" I can almost see me playing that role in the very near future and I'm sure that those of you who know me well won't be surprised if it does. I spent a few minutes of my study the other day comparing a picture of me with Sister Youngberg on my first day in Illinois to a picture of me with Sister Kolb that was taken very recently. My mind was swarming with all of the changes and happenings that have taken place in such a short amount of time and I came to the conclusion that I wouldn't trade any of them for anything.

In current news, things are progressing nicely in the areas that are Gurnee and Waukegan. J.M., A.A., and S.D. are primed and ready for their big day on Saturday. The week of a baptism is one of the busiest for a missionary. We have to arrange the speakers, the refreshments, the music, the people who will be baptizing the investigator, members who will stand in the Confirmation circle, clothing fittings...oy. J.M. asked me to be one of the speakers and I'm very shocked that I've yet to have a panic attack. No worries. I'm sure that will happen in the next day or so.

J.M. in particular is doing amazing. From the very first day we met with him, I knew he had been prepared for this Gospel. I'm happy to announce that he's been smoke free for more than a week. On Monday, we asked him how the not smoking was going and he responded with, "what smoking?" That's what I love to hear! A portion of the mandatory lessons covers the principle of "teaching and learning." Recently, Sister Kolb and I asked J.M. to teach us something and without batting an eye, he went into a 15 minute lesson about faith. At one point he stepped out of the room to talk to his mom, allowing Sister Kolb and I to each say, "he needs to go on a mission!" For our next lesson concerning member missionary work, we made him a missionary tag and he got a huge kick out of it. Yep, things are going well.

I just realized that my computer time is almost over and that President is still expecting a letter from me. I continue to be grateful and humbled at the love and support you send my way. When the days are hard, letters from home give me the boost that is needed. The Gospel's true and I'm serving in the greatest mission north of the South Pole! Hugs to all!

Sister Sara

Another "WOW" Week

Dear Family and Friends,

This past week has been spent pondering as to why this area, myself, and my new companion have been blessed so abundantly. After many hours, I was able to come up with only one thing and it doesn't really even answer the question but it satisfies me. In the words of Sister Clark: "If you're going to blame someone for the good stuff, blame God." However, once the blessings are received, I only more realize how much I can never repay my Heavenly Father for all that He does. It is a debt that can never be worked off. I could say a lot more about this topic, but so many exciting things have happened this week and it's going to take a while for me to write them so...on to the news!!!

Several days ago, Sister Kolb and I were heading over to the Navy Base to meet with a member. Deciding that I knew the way well enough not to use the GPS, I left it off and commenced to get lost for the next 30 minutes. During this adventure, Sister Kolb and I decided that the GPS is like the Holy Ghost: we can choose to use it or we can ignore the promptings. Whatever decision is made, consequences abound. I chose to ignore it and ended up in a not too friendly looking part of North Chicago. Eventually, I realized how necessary it is, pushed the "on" button, and was able to start over on the journey. Thankfully, our destination was reached and we had a lovely visit with the family. So, always have your "GPS" on!

Sunday was a big day for many reasons. Sister Kolb and I were invited to talk with the Primary about baptism and show them the baptismal faunt. After church, we met up with Elder Hudson and Elder Dyle- the Spanish Elders- to teach J.M. the Stop Smoking Program. Elder Hudson was a huge part of this because he smoked for 7 years before completing the program and deciding to come on a mission. Teaching is so much more powerful when the teacher has overcome the same struggles as the investigator. This program consists of 15 steps and includes pure grapefruit juice, cinnamon everything, healthy snacks, and unlimited prayer. You're guaranteed to stop smoking within a single week. At the end of the lesson, the Elders offered J.M. a blessing of comfort. Each time I have the opportunity to witness one, I get chills and tears are always near the surface. Without a doubt, the Priesthood is real and it does create miracles. You'll be happy to know that J.M. has now gone 4 days without smoking and is so excited for his baptism on the 30th. Yesterday we talked to him about the temple and for several minutes he just stared at a picture of the Salt Lake Temple celestial room. Watching him progress these past few weeks has truly been a miracle. A.A. also continues to do well and, despite his parents not understanding why he's getting baptized again, continues to receive witnesses that this is the right decision.
Now, for the breaking news. For many months, the missionaries have been working with S.D., a 9 year old girl whose mom, Sister Campbell, is a member but her father is athiest. S.D. has been ready for baptism for quite a while, but had to give her father a good reason as to why she should be allowed to become a member of the church. After all, what's the difference in becoming a member and just going to church every Sunday? HUGE difference! Finally, S.D. and her parents were able to have a long talk about the issue and they came to a conclusion: S.D. will be getting baptized on May 30 with J.M. and A.A.!!!!!!! Sister Campbell called yesterday to tell us the news I don't think I've ever been so excited my entire mission. Sister Kolb is a witness that I started jumping up and down all over the apartment, a fact that some are refusing to believe. However, she'll tell you it happened.

I'm sure many of you are wondering how the "training" is going of Sister Kolb. We've only been together a week, but I already love working with her. Her testimony is so strong and she continues to exceed my expectations. The scary thing is that we're so much alike, even having some of the same clothing. Last Friday, we both showed up at study wearing a pink shirt and white sweater. Throughout the day, random people kept asking us if this was protocol for missionaries. Not quite, just a funny coincidence.

The sun is shining, it's warm outside, miracles are abundant, and I am grateful to be in Illinois doing the Lord's work. I love you all and appreciate the support I receive through your letters. The gospel's true!

Sister Sara

I'm a mom!!

Dear Family and Friends,

Early Tuesday morning I got a very interesting call from President Stoddard, asking me how I would feel about staying in Gurnee to train a new addition to the Illinois Chicago North Mission. For the past several weeks I've been thinking about the possibility of this question being asked. When it was, so many thoughts went through my head, but in a clear voice I managed to tell President, "It's a scary thought but I can do it." At this time I am happy to introduce my "daughter:" Sister Kalli Kolb from St. George, Utah. For at least the next 6 weeks, my life will be devoted to making sure she learns what the mission life is all about. In the words of my very wise brother, "it's the opportunity to show someone how to be a good missionary." I'm not sure how qualified I am to teach someone, but each back is shaped for the experiences that are placed upon it. With divine guidance, this task shall be accomplished.

After the transfer meeting at the church, we headed for the Mission home for a lunch prepared by Sister Stoddard. It seems like yesterday that I was there with Sister Youngberg, preparing myself to jump into the work. Ironically, the lunch was almost the exact same thing we had 9 months ago. All afternoon I had a very deja vu-ish feeling, but this time I'm the trainer. (I keep telling myself that, but it hasn't clicked yet! I'm a trainer! I have a daughter! Someone's life is in my hands! Breathe, breathe...)

Last week, I was given the wonderful opportunity to talk with my family for a few minutes. Each person I talked to deserves a gold star because it gave the boost I needed to get through the last few days of the transfer. I have to admit that the calls made me a little trunky, but I'd rather suffer trunkiness than not talk to anyone at all. Such is the price a missionary pays.

I think those are the highlights of this past week. The work is going amazing and I am so blessed to be in this area right now. However, I am constantly reminded that I have no control over this work. No matter what, it will continue to move forward because every day people are being prepared for what this Gospel can offer, which is more than anyone can ever imagine. There are definitely hard times, but in the words of Joseph Smith, "shall we not go on in so great a cause?" In the words of me, "yes I will!"

Hugs to all!
Sister Sara