About Me - from my blog

About Me

I was born and raised in a small town in southern California. I have an older sister, two younger brothers, and two incredible parents. My family is such a blessing in my life. We have so much fun together. We love doing things outside--riding bikes, hiking, swimming. I have wonderful friends and roommates who are great examples to me. We have so much fun together, no matter what we are doing. I am studying Communication Disorders at Brigham Young University. I want to get a master's degree and become a speech pathologist. I love all sports, but especially volleyball and soccer. I am a competitive person I love to read, long board, do puzzles and eat ice cream.

Why I am a Mormon

I became a Mormon because I was born into the church. My parents taught me the gospel and I relied on their testimonies while I was young. I have always loved the standards of the church. From an early age I saw how they blessed my life and I knew that I always wanted to follow them. When I turned nineteen I realized that I was now old enough to go on a mission, but I had no idea if I should or if I even wanted to. I started praying to know if it was something that I needed to do. During that time in my life, as I was thinking a lot about serving a mission, I realized that I had never had a big burning confirmation that the gospel was true. I decided that I wanted and needed one -- if I was going to spend eighteen months teaching people about the gospel, I needed to know for sure. I read my scriptures, fasted, and prayed to know the truth. An answer didn't come right away, it took a little while, and it took effort. I had to do my part to show Heavenly Father that I truly did have a desire to know the truth. The answer didn't come in a way that I was expecting. One day I was writing in my journal and I realized that I did know. I already knew that the gospel is true. My conversion took place gradually throughout my life. The experiences I had in life, and my daily decisions had been building my testimony piece by piece. As I've gone through trials in life, I have had to turn to and rely on my Savior, Jesus Christ. On my own there are many things that I cannot do, but I know that through Him I can do all things. I am so grateful for the gospel of Jesus Christ and for His Atonement. It has blessed my life immensely. I know that because Christ paid the price for my sins I can return to live with Heavenly Father after this life, and that I can be with my family forever. I am so glad that I have this knowledge. It brings me so much joy.

How I live my faith

My faith is an integral part of my life. I try to stand as a witness for my Savior, Jesus Christ in everything I do. It seems like it would be a lot harder to do this at home in California than here in Provo, Utah; however, when I came to college I learned that there are always ways that we can stand as witnesses of Christ. I think the little decisions we make on a daily basis play a key role in how I live my faith. It is the little things that keep us headed in the right direction. There is a quote that I love by Boyd K Packer that describes this well: "Our lives are made up of thousands of everyday choices. Over the years these little choices will be bundled together and show clearly what we value." I try to make decisions each day that will bring me closer to my Savior and uplift others. In two months I am leaving to serve a full time mission in Australia. I am nervous, but excited to dedicate eighteen months of my life to serving the Lord and the people in Australia. Every other Sunday I teach a group of girls at church. It's been a blessing in my life because I've discovered that when you teach someone, you are the one that learns the most. I love the girls I get to serve, and I am so grateful for their examples to me.

Speaking in Tahquitz Ward March 20 at 1 pm

Just letting you know Rebecca is speaking in the Tahquitz Ward tomorrow (March 20th) at 1 pm if anyone wants to come.  It's in the Meridian building -- one block East of the High School on Stetson.  

She's home!

After 20 hours of flight, 6 hours of layovers, and 3 hours of driving, she made it home.  Here are a few pictures from the airport.  We left home 4:10 am, thinking that would be plenty of time to get there by 6:30 AM.  Her flight arrived at 6:00 AM instead of 6:30 AM, we got stuck behind two accidents, and didn't get to the airport until 7:00 AM.  We looked around for her to see if we had missed her, but didn't see her anywhere.  So we went to the place where we would see her first when she came up this ramp from customs.  We heard a few people with Aussie accents, so figured we were in time, then we saw the pilots and flight attendants coming up and Ed wondered if we missed her.  So he decided to do a quick loop around to make sure we didn't miss her.  Quite a sacrifice because he didn't want to miss her, but it sounded wise.  So he quickly left.  We were so focused on the people coming up, we didn't hear the stealth missionary behind us until she grabbed me and yelled "Boo!"  (She must have learned a few tricks from the Aboriginals about tracking) I have to admit, I screamed (squealed) quite loudly.  At least it was loud enough for Ed to hear across the room.  So hugs all around, but no video of her coming up the ramp.  Funny girl.  I guess when she didn't see us there to meet her (yep, anticlimactic) she went to the restroom.  That's where she was when we came in the door.   

 

In the second picture, she's laughing hard because right as the guy was taking the picture, I told her , "Oh.  I broke your phone."  What?  As you can see, she looks happy and well.  No Aussie accent.  I guess it's rare for Americans to pick up the Aussie accent; much easier to pick up the Pomp accent (Pomp is English accent - haha), something about the way they hold their mouths?  But she has some cute Australian phrases, hey?  It's so good to have her home.  Rachel and Devon come home tonight, so it's going to be a happy reunion!  First time all together since April 2013.  Her homecoming is next Sunday at 11 AM at the Park Hill Chapel in Hemet.  Find Park Street and drive around it (it's kind of a circle) until you see the big A frame.  We'd love to have you join us.  Thanks for all of your love and prayers on her behalf.
Love you all! 
Chris

Signing off!

Hey everyone!!!  Sorry I've been MIA the last 2 weeks, so much to do, so little time.  And I figured the longer I wait to write, the more interesting it will be :)

 

First things first, Mckay I PROMISE I remembered your birthday the whole week except Monday haha.  I wrote it in my planner and everything...oops sorry.  But HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!  I can't believe you are 18.  What the?  We'll have to celebrate soon.

 

It has been such a wonderful week.  We got to start off by watching a worldwide missionary broadcast, which was incredible, instructive and inspiring.  So we went forth to apply what we learned and rely more fully on the spirit.  We had a small cottage evening Thursday night, Bel and Nik invited Ross, us and Sister Hale over for dinner and a lesson.  Everyone is pumped for family history now, Sister Watts, our family history consultant is going to have a lot to help with.

 

I can't remember if I told you this story or not since it's been 2 weeks since I mailed, but it was our investigators' birthday, so we planned on making him brownies for the lesson.  That night we went to make them and realized we left our only pan with a member.  We went through the kitchen looking for options, and found our slow cooker. Feeling adventurous we made the brownies and cooked them in there, or tried to haha.  It was rock hard on the outside and sooo soft on the inside.  It looked hideous haha but luckily it still tasted good (the part you could eat).  We just put it on a plate as a lump and brought spoons.  They just laughed when they saw it. 

 

We have been so spoiled this last week.  President Goodlet (He hates being called President.  He always tells us, "call me Neil."  but I call him el presidente instead) has spent heaps of time coming to lessons with us.  He is such a good man!  And it has helped so much.  He's very down to earth and casual but has a strong testimony.  And it helped one of my favourite couples to come to church!  Which by the way was incredible.  The spirit was really strong.

 

Oh hey, one miracle is that we are teaching this lady who is very in tune with the spirit and knows what we are sharing is true, but is in a very difficult situation and would have to make very major life changes.  She'll get there because she loves Heavenly Father so much, but she is not ready yet.  But anyways, here's the miracle part: we haven't taught her about the word of wisdom yet, but she told us recently taht a few weeks ago Heavenly Father told her she needs to stop drinking coffee.  It's been really clear to see the little steps he uses to prepare her to fully accept the gospel.

 

One last experience, Saturday our investigators Adam and Isabella took us out to lunch after our lesson.  They told us about a friend of theirs who had led a horrific life--she is the most lovely woman who has been through literally the worst of things.  Then later that day another person told us about this same lady and also where she lives.  We didn't have much time, but figured we probably needed to see her.  So we went there and turns out it was an answer to her prayers.  From listening to her, I learned so much about the Saviour's love and the healing He can give to us.  It comes from trusting in Him.  This woman, after all she has been through gives service continually, loves the Saviour and is one of the kindest and most compassionate people I know. Stumbling blocks plus the Saviour truly equal stepping stones.  It is impossible to reach our potential and learn and develop the attributes of our Saviour without going through trials. 

 

I love missionary work in small towns, because people talk about you.  We had a man pull over the other day and ask if we were the ones who knew his mate because he told him about talking to us.

 

I've been trying to remember to keep Christ's name on my lips always--to always testify of Him, because He is the center of the message we share.  It is Him who we represent and Him who is the way by which we can return to our Heavenly Father.  I know that.  I know that this is His church; that it was restored to the earth through the Prophet Joseph Smith and that Heavenly Father's authority was restored to Joseph Smith and is held by worthy men today.  I am sooo grateful for that knowledge and so grateful for the better understanding of my Saviour and my Heavenly Father that I have received on my mission.  And how it has helped me trust in them more fully and recognized how He communicates with me through the spirit more.  I know Heavenly Father wants to guide each of us back to Him and He will if we will but listen.  Heavenly Father is truly Aware of all of His children.

Because of Him -- video 2 min

Because of Him Video - 3 min.

I'm really going to miss biking these hills in the rain one day and 40 degree heat the next. 

And having lessons at Bernard Park in the middle of town. I love being a missionary and will miss it and Northam soo much.  I have truly made a family here.  But I guess I am putting my trust in Heavenly Father to the test. I know He has much more for me and each of us to do. 

 

This is the last of these oh so exciting emails haha. 

I am just a bit (HA) nervous to come home but also very excited. Bitter sweet feelings.  But after that plane ride, I'm going to be knocked out, so I'll see ya'll when I wake up!!  Have a good 2 days!  Love you all!!

 

Love,

Sister Formica

No email today, short one last week.

Well, Sister Formica must be busy seeing everyone and everything she wants to see before leaving Australia.  No email today, but she did send the sentence below last week, so we know she was alive.  :) 

No time to write, computers shut down earlier.  Sorry I love you!

For anyone interested, her homecoming talk will be February 21 and 11 am.  Here is the address:  1151 Park Ave, San Jacinto, CA.  I've heard the GPS sends you to some residence, so here are directions:  

Heading East on Ramona Expressway, turn right on Hemet St.  Right on Charlton, Left on Park Ave.  Church is about a mile down on the right.  It's a big A-frame right after a ball field.  

She leaves Australia at 10:30 pm their time (6:30 AM our time on Tuesday) and arrives at 6:30 AM our time Wednesday.  After 24 hours, I'm sure she'll be tired of travelling.  

Her phone broke while she was gone (I dropped it...) so we'll get her set up as soon as she gets home. Thanks for loving and supporting her these past 18 months (and more).  

If she writes next week, I'll post it.  

Chris (Sister Formica's mom)

Ice water on my head

We assume this is her zone.  :)  

Hello hello!!

We've had a blessed week--there were ups and downs all week, we were feeling quite discouraged on Saturday night and then on Sunday Heavenly Father just started pouring out blessings.  

Schaefen came to church on Sunday and is much more open and also able to learn more about the gospel!

Church was incredible!!  And Sister Ahlstrom and I sang a musical item after Sunday school, President Massen had everyone come back together and he explained a bit about what was happening and the decision process and how the church is organized for Ross and Schaefen.  He then called our new branch presidency and set them apart.  It was beautiful and the spirit was so strong.  Really confirmed my testimony of the restoration.  I'm sure you've heard about it, but we go for an hour and a half now--short sacrament meeting with 1 speaker, just focus on the sacrament.  And then one big gospel principles class. The focus of the branch is missionary work--building up the Kingdom.  Different, but it will be really good!!

Ross really enjoyed church and he got a lot out of it.  He said it was because he prepared himself Saturday night like we asked him to!  He is doing soo well and his faith and determination are growing every time we see him.

Shogan came to sacrament meeting because he is starting night shift.  He is still moving along, he had so many ups and downs last week it was like the silver bullet roller coaster at 6 flags.  

We drove 4 1/2 hours (there and back) to Merredin on Friday to contact a referral who is searching for the purpose of his life.  When we got to the address there, it turned out to be a motel with 12 rooms.  The reception was closed and we knocked on every single door, but not a single person was there.  Not even like we are home but not answering but like a ghost town.  All the little tiny towns out there are so strange, you just feel surreal going there.  But we met the coolest less active sister there. Been 28 years since she went to church, she was heavily involved before, her husband was branch president and she went out with the missionaries heaps, they just moved to the middle of no where and fell away.  Because she is so far away it will be hard to see her often, but she could so easily come back.  There are some families out there (and a few potentials) and we are thinking if they will all come back we can arrange a car pool ha.  

Sooo many tender mercies this week, especially Sunday.  The Lord's hand is so apparent in this work.  I wish that I had taken my setting apart more literally and really understood the power in it earlier.  It gives you more courage.  We had an investigator telling us that when we are there there is such a special feeling when we come, that it hangs in the air and is just beautiful and that people feel it even if they don't want to listen, and that years down the road they will remember it and grab onto it.  She is so receptive to the spirit and willing to follow Heavenly Father's will.  

This couple came and got on the computer beside me and started whispering to each other about us really loudly.  It was pretty funny, so then they said something about sisters out loud so I looked at them and asked how they were doing and when they were surprised I was like, "Oh sorry, I thought you said my name."  She was so hostile and they started speaking in nunga really fast to each other.  So I'll just keep humming How Firm a Foundation loudly. 

And there is a flavour of blueberry ice cream at the chapel that is to die for.  I'll take a picture of it so someone can check for me and see if we have it in America.  That way I have a few weeks to prepare myself if not. 

We've been able to go help out at the Penstones a bit, they leave Friday!  So more painting this week :)

I LOVE being a missionary.  I love Sister Ahlstrom so much.  She is so strong and funny and this time here in Northam has been incredible.  And I love you all!

Actually I hate her because she just poured ice water on my head...Have a wonderful week!

Love,

Sister Formica

Can't be bothered thinking of something...

Good morning America!  Oh wait, it was Wake up San Francisco wasn't it?  Oops...

We had a pretty emotional and crazy week.  But it was incredible.  Lots of miracles and lots of growth.

We've done the quit smoking program a couple times this week!  I had to wait until my last transfer to do it, but we get to do it plenty here, so I was excited about that.  And now we are allowed to eat candy, but we are drinking grapefruit juice after every meal haha.

And we have been told 10000000000x to drink more water from every single person we know.  So don't worry, we are being taken care of very well.

This week was pretty much just the norm. missionary stuff. mingled with Sister Ahlstrom not feeling well, but she is getting better slowly.  

We got out to Toodyay and saw the cutest couple who are investigating the church, also met a man who's teenage kids are struggling with some things that he wants us to meet, so we are going back next weekend to meet them.  They have a couple ponies that are so cute!

Also there were crazy storms this week and tons of people lost power for a bit.  It was such a fun storm, tons of thunder and lightening, and some of the roads got flooded.

So yesterday we were teaching a man who knows what he needs to do and wants to, but has to make some pretty heavy sacrifices to join the church.  

In teaching him, I am learning that sacrifice is giving up something (and it may be something good) for something better.  Sacrifice helps you learn so many things.  I have learned, (and will probably have to relearn many time) that opportunity is a synonym for sacrifice for the Lord.  Opportunities for growth and learning, joy in His service, strengthened and new relationships formed, and the development of attributes of charity, patience, etc. Plus even greater rewards to come.  Putting our trust in the Lord is the only intelligent thing to do.

You don't always know what someone is feeling or dealing with, and in a blessing, we were told that we needed to learn to correctly interpret what people say and do and don't say and don't do as a cry for help...and then more.  

I feel like I have gone through the full range of emotions this week (that's how you know it was a good week haha just kidding).  

I learned a lot about the Saviour's Atonement this week.  It has so many aspects and it covers EVERYTHING.  And I mean EVERYTHING.  He not only can cleanse us from sin but He can strengthen and enable us and heal us from painful and sorrowful experiences when we have no clue what to do or how.

Oh also the Sister who paid her tithing last week came with us to visit another member who is working on quitting smoking.  I was amazed by her actions and attitude.  She is so unassuming and in her quiet and simple way she just came in and began serving her and helping her with her kids, etc.  And throughout the lesson she just gave so much encouragement  The gospel is true.  It helps us get rid of the little traits and things we pick up in this life that refines us into who we truly are and who Heavenly Father wants us to become.

And the commandments literally are our safeguard or safety net to living happy, satisfying lives. And give us the abilities to have deep and meaningful relationships.  

Have a wonderful week everyone!!  I am grateful for and love you all!  

Love,

Sister Formica

2016 WHAT?!

Gott nytt ar!!!!!  Happy New Year in Swedish, but pretend the last o has the two dots over it.  I don't have time to get the swedish keyboard up and I don't know any other way to do it haha.

Busy week (my favourite kind). We've been doing a lot of service helping the Penstones paint bits and pieces of their house as they get it ready to rent out. 

The Penstones are leaving within 2 weeks!  And 3 other people who have been here for a couple months are going back home and going traveling so we are losing a chunk of those who have been active for a long time.  This is going to be a crazy transition.  We aren't sure what's going to happen yet, but I'll keep you updated.  Fun stuff!  Good thing Heavenly Father is in control. 

Sister Ahlstrom is feeling a bit sick again.  The heat really gets to her.  It got up to 45 one day and we were biking everywhere and then it got up to 47 or maybe a bit more (luckily it was pday and we didn't bike around).  So we've been driving and trying to help her manage the heat.  She's really strong (and stubborn haha) and keeps working no matter what.  Don't worry, I asked her permission to tell you that she is stubborn, so she's very humble as well ha :)

Shogan is getting baptized soon!!  Just after the Penstones leave.  He's doing really well and has had some really awesome experiences and insights!  It's been really fun seeing him begin to understand the gospel more, especially our potential and our need for a Saviour. 

One thing that really touched me this week was witnessing a sister in our branch who is really struggling financially (so badly that she often does not have food) paid tithing for the first time this Sunday.  She asked us to go with her to give the envelope to President because she was a bit nervous.  She has been away from church for years and started to come back almost 2 months ago.  She is the only fully aboriginal member that I have ever met.  She has such strong but quiet faith.  I was really grateful for the trust she had in Heavenly Father and the example she was and continues to be for me.

I am grateful for the testimonies and faith of those around me and back home, it really strengthens my testimony of the Saviour, especially to see the service that so many people give out of love for their brothers and sisters and out of love for Him.  THank you all for your examples and love!  Have an amazing week and continue to look for opportunities to serve others and share the gospel!!  Love ya!

Love,

Sister Formica

Here's a picture of Sister Formica with their house key!!!  From our computer screen on Christmas eve as we were skyping with her.  They can't get it copied in Northam - too old of a key.  I guess that's why they get locked out so much.  

New Years - Look Not Behind thee:  3 minute video.  Hopeful! 

http://www.mormonchannel.org/watch/series/mormon-messages/new-years-look-not-behind-thee?cid=HP_MO_12-28-2015_dPFD_fMRMN_xLIDyL1-A_

Pictures aplenty!

Merry Christmas!  Don't miss this 2 min video - brings joy to my heart! 

https://www.lds.org/media-library/video/2015-12-1000-a-savior-is-born-christmas-video?category=topics/christmas&lang=eng

Adam says there is a bug that paralyzes a tarantula, lays it's eggs on it, and then the eggs feed on the tarantula.  I'm not sure if I want to know if this is what Becca caught on camera or not.  

Merry Christmas! Dec 13 and Dec 20 emails.

We get to talk to Sister Formica tonight!!!!  But I need to catch up on her blog first.  Here are the last two weeks.  Sorry no pictures -- she's lost her camera. :)  

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

 

It's getting closer and closer and I am so excited!!!!  Whoo!!

 

Ok so this week I actually took the time to write down some things I wanted to remember and say and then...I forgot the list haha.  I know I am sad.  Some things never change. 

 

But this really was the best week ever! 

 

You can work and work and pray and pray and never see the fruits of your efforts, but this week Heavenly Father blessed us with seeing so many changes in people and with an increased understanding of just how much the gospel blesses people.  Literally in every aspect of our lives.  Emotionally, physically, of course spiritually.  In everything. 

We saw a lot of changes and miracles this week.  Which is always nice.

 

Ross is getting baptized!!!  Sister Hale has now been back to church 4 times plus 2 more activities (ever since we met her, she jumped back into it, even though she was still telling us that she wasn't a church goer haha.   Even after she'd been 2 or 3 times).  And she is the best missionary.  She wants her family to have the peace and relief the gospel has brought to her.  She says it's like she has a light and she doesn't walk around looking down and feeling heavy.  She brought her sister and 5 of their neices and nephews with them to church on Sunday!  There was a special spirit there, even though we had so many children and only a couple rows, so it was stressful because Sister Ahlstrom and I sat with kids all around us so we could help take care of them.  I think we need to come prepared next week with the church kit.  Oh and President and Sister Fife came to the branch on Sunday with their son.  It was so cool to have them there!  I don't know if I told you enough times last week ha, but they are amazing.

 

The closer it gets to Christmas the harder it gets not to eat candy.  But everytime we want to have an exception, Shogan tells us how hard it will be not to drink on Christmas and boxing day and new years and his birthday.  So fair enough I guess.  But it's a good thing you couldn't find any chocolate advent calendars mum. 

 

Lots more happened, but we have to go, they are kicking us off the computers early. 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

Ok I'm apparently not going to school again, because I can't figure out how to do the ecclesiastical endorsement.  I'm going to take that as a sign from Heavenly Father ;) Haha...Just kidding, I finally figured out my info, so no worries mate.  (Eccleiastical Endorsement is what BYU needs to re-admit someone who stopped going to school to complete a mission. They save your spot, but there is some paperwork involved... ). 

We had an eventful week...lots of activities!  Wednesday we had a Relief Soceity activity, had lunch, decorated ginger bread houses, did some essential oils stuff.  Sister Penstone literally is the best.  We talked to her about having a Christmas activity for everyone to get to know each other better and bond, etc.  And she goes off and does her party planning thing and prepares everything by the time we next meet ha.  I don't know how she does it.  On top of 5 kids and moving and Christmas and everything else.  Superhuman.  Then on Saturday we had a branch BBQ for Christmas, and then we traveled back to Ballajura (where we go to church in Ellenbrook) for a baptism Saturday evening with Shogan.  We had to do so much driving this week.  This means we are going to be on bikes pretty much for the rest of our lives.  No k's left ha.  (They get a certain number of miles per month.  Otherwise, they ride bikes... which Rebecca seems to like, but maybe not in 110 degree weather).  

This is pretty random, but Sister Ahlstrom is really into music and arts and things and yesterday we met this man who used to be a performer and was King Herod in "Jesus Christ Superstar".  He worked with Andrew Lloyd Weber and heaps of other super famous people.  I have never ever heard of this play, am I totally alone in this?  Just curious.

Earlier in the week we went to see this couple who live in Toodyay.  They are the coolest people ever!  And his name is Adam and he is super funny and smart and a bit quirky and I can see Adam being a bit like him when he grows up.  So Adam, you just have to move to Australia and own 5 alpacas.  He has soo many questions about God and religion, and is so eager for answers.

Oh, ok so this man just came into the library and he is very picky about what time he is on the computers, so we have to go.  But I love you all! Sorry for the random as email haha.  MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Love,

Sister Formica

Hey guys!  This week has been so good.  Sister Ahlstrom is feeling so much better, thanks for your prayers everyone.

WHOO!!  It's almost Christmas!!!  Hands down, one of my favourite times of year.  It wasn't really feeeling too much like Christmas, but it's starting to a bit more.  This last week we got a tree and decorations from the Penstones and our amazing neighbour Jenny.  I'll try to send some pictures next week (I temporarily--hopefully--misplaced my camera) so hopefully I will be able to find it soon. 

The spirit of Christmas is definitely real and beautiful.  But I think the power of it is proportional to the amount of people who understand what it's really about and get involved in the giving, serving and loving.  I'm not sure about that yet, I'll have to think about it some more, that just came out when I was typing haha. 

We're trying hard to spread those feelings though :) 

Here is a 2 minute Christmas video:  worth the time!!  https://www.mormon.org/christmas?cid=HP_SU_11-29-2015_dMIS_fSPC_xLIDyL1-A_

I am planning on going carolling with some of the families we know and with our neighbours.  I probably should let people know though and get it organized ha.  Just maybe.  I tend to plan things in my head and think people know about them.  I mentioned it to Sister Ahlstrom yesterday and she looked at me surprised because I was acting like it was something we had been planning on.  And I had been...just not out loud I guess.

This week we had some reappearances of people we haven't seen in a while.  We were able to see Bel and Nic and then Sunday they were back at church which was the BEST!

Nothing too dramatic happened except Ross came to church in a white shirt and tie!  And on a bike with a hurt ankle.  So that was a huge sign of commitment for him :)  

We've been super spoiled with everything, especially recently--food, Christmas stuff, etc. 

I am sooo grateful for the branch here, for Sister Ahlstrom, for my Heavenly Father and my Saviour and for this special time of year that brings families together.  And for egg nog which we just found in the shops today :)

Love you all!!  Have a great week!

Love,

Sister Formica

qwertyuiop

Hey guys!! 

What the heck? I don't know how November is over already...but Christmas is going to be great!  It doesn't feel like Christmas yet, maybe it's the heat.  You'd think I'd be used to it by now.

It's been a long week but a good one.  Sister Ahlstrom has been sick so we have been taking things a bit slower.  She is super tough though, but isn't getting any better, so we are going to have to rest a bit more this week.  Poor thing.

Not too much to report on...we really couldn't see many people this week.  A mission is the worst place to be sick.

We had an amazing Zone conference though. Amazing.  Can I just say I love President and Sister Fife? 

Um we taught primary this week because the Penstones were gone, and so we had 2 kids haha.  But it was crazy.  I think I'd prefer teaching a group of kids. Much easier.  They are little cuties, but let me tell you, they have a mind of their own.  We had a lot of fun though :) I love primary!  It would be nice to have that much energy haha.

Umm Saturday night we held a movie night at the chapel to give people an alternative to drinking with their friends and to make it easier for them to come to church the next morning.  The last part didn't quite work out ha, but it will!!  Some people were sick and other things happened...all fun stuff.  But it turned out really well and we want to make it a regular thing.

We went out to Calingri an hour away (not that that's news, everything is at least an hour away from here, just further into the bush or closer to Perth) and had Thanksgiving dinner with the coolest/best family ever.  So yes I had Thanksgiving :)

That's pretty much it.

Oh but my Ponderize verse is Matt 16:24-25. 

 24 ¶Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

 25 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.

Christmas video - less than 2 minutes:   https://www.mormon.org/christmas

That's all folks.  Have a wonderful week!  I'll try to have more energy and more things to write next week.  Promise.  Love ya'll.

Love,

Sister Formica

Oscar

Memories are so funny...I was sitting there thinking what the heck, I don't remember that at all! And then it just came back to me!  LOVED your email!!  We are going to the temple today and the computers at the library were all booked, so we had to dash to the chapel to email super duper quick.  I am happy, healthy and working a lot.  Even though we had such a short time to email, I still read your email instead of printing it and sending one.  It's because I am selfish and I love to hear how you guys are doing and your thoughts/just everything.  I'm working on being more selfless haha so maybe next week I won't read my emails and I'll send you a super good one.  Good thing it's only 4 days till next Monday :) 

It's been a great week!  We had the branch activity, and all of our returning members came and our neighbor Jenny!  And she knew this couple in our branch, so that was fun.  Oscar (the 5 year old) took more pictures, so I'll send them next week.  

(Here are a few from last week.... I assume from Oscar)

Glad you got the letters!  Turns out I left the most recent one out :/ Oh well ha.  What's Rachel's address?  And Aunt Kathy's? And Grandma and Grandpa Chipman and Grandma Formica?  I probably should know it ha.  Oops.  How is Uncle Steve doing??

LOVE YOU!!!!

Hot, hot, and hotter :) November 16

This week was really good!  Really hot but really good! 

It felt like it was long, probably because we had to drive to Perth so often.  We had exchanges this week, so I was with Sister Jardine for like half of the week.  It was so much fun!!!  We drove back Tuesday afternoon/evening after getting crazy lost in their area.  So then we have a bunch of people to see, lotsa good productive missionary fun.  

We also got some bush medicine from one of our investigators.  She and her husband gather certain plants and make medicine out of it.  She gave us a bottle and it smells pretty weird, but I put some on one of my knees and it was feeling better than the other one.

THEN we get home.  It's super late, we're pretty tired, and as we pull into our spot, I realized that we left the only set of keys with Sister Ahlstrom an hour and a half away in Perth.  All of our windows are bolted shut, except we had just learned last week that the kitchen window actually opened.  (There was like a tarantula in between the screen and the glass.  So we definitely didn't open it.  But we learned that we can ha.)  But I had thought that it was pretty sketchy that our window was so easy to open, so I put a bar in it. Literally like 3 days before this happened.  But that's really our only shot, so we went around the back, examined the window for spiders, and proceeded to work our magic (push the window in as much as we could and have Sister Jardine stick her hand in and flick the bar out.  We felt so accomplished when we got in haha.  

 

Anyways, we packed up the next day because we are supposed to drive back to perth to exchange back.  So we put the bar in the window, locked all the doors, and then went out for the day.  Turns out we had so many appointments and things that exchanging back did not happen that night.  It was late before we were even able to leave for Perth, so we got permission to stay one more night and leave early in the morning.  We had our dinner at 8 and we went to a Chinese place, the only restaurant in Northam.  It was so much fun!  And delicious.  So after dinner we are soo full, so tired and we get home and realize what we've done.  Luckily we are so skilled at breaking in, we didn't have to sleep outside.  I promise it was funnier than I made it sound.  And also it probably didn't deserve a whole paragraph haha. Oh well.

We had such a good week work wise, we are constantly meeting new people who really really need the gospel.  Sister Jardine put her finger on why Northam is so special.  You really feel like you are needed here.  Sister Penstone said that people come to Northam to be humbled.  There are a lot of people who have been through a lot--because of their choices, the choices of others, etc.  There is a lot of darkness, and so the contrast with the spirit and the light of the gospel is so huge.  It definitely comes with it's struggles, people have so much to overcome, but if they choose to, they can do it.  And when they overcome so much, they become that much stronger.  Sometimes I wish we could skip the middle part, and just learn our lessons immediately, etc.  But I know that's not how it works.  And that would be pretty boring if we really could learn that way.

Oh Sister Jardine and I had an Other Side of Heaven moment with this lady.  Remember when the guys surround them at night to beat the elders up?  Well we didn't have that, don't worry Mum.)  But then the huge guy--I don't remember his name--comes and takes them home?  And he's a member?  Well we went to say hi to this man and woman at the park while we were waiting for someone.  When we got closer, I recognized the man, he is an older man who wanders town everyday drinking.  Half the time he's our best friend and the other half, he hates us.  Today was a hate day, but I figured Sister Jardine needed the Northam experience.  So as we walk up, he starts yelling at us "We don't talk to Christians".  It was so funny!  The woman who was with him starts yelling at him to respect us.  She was all, "They're good people.  They're Mormons.  They're God's people.  Show some respect!"  As we talked to her, she told us that she was baptized like 15 years ago with her sons in Adelaide!  She is so funny.  She pinky swore not to drink on the day of our appt, we wrote it down for her and when we went by, she hadn't!  She's really sweet and remembers bits and pieces.  She's the third less active member we just ran into!

On Friday we taught the word of wisdom to this 22 year old guy who got out of the army a bit ago.  We've taught him a couple times, and he wants to be baptized, but he hasn't been able to come to church at all yet.  His work schedule just got shifted to night shift, and it makes it difficult for him, but he's going to try to make it next week.  At 22 when you aren't a missionary, you should have plenty of energy right? Just kidding.  This guy is really cool.  I think I told you about him, but he just wants to do what's right and be the best he can be.  So to help him as he's giving up drinking, We committed each of us to give up something with him.  Brother Watts was with us, and he committed to go for a walk every morning.  We gave up candy (but we didn't really think it through and I think we are going to have to make it sugar--it's just easier than deciding what is and isn't candy).  We weren't planning on doing that, and Brother Watts has been giving us a hard time since then haha.

Yesterday it was our investigator, Ross' birthday!  We made muffins and cake for everyone that night, and I decided I am not a huge fan of baking.  I love box mixes. They are the best!  Shout out to Sister Johansen for the muffin mixes, because those saved the day.  Thank you!!

Last thing to a very long and not too interesting email:  This morning we woke up and went out of town like 15 minutes and had our studies outside and then went on a hike! It was so beautiful and really nice because everytime we drive past these hills, I wonder what's on the other side.  After hiking up one and seeing it and also seeing that it's all the same, I am satisfied.  I love Australia! And I love being a missionary!

 

Hope you all have a wonderful week!!!

Love,

Sister Formica

Week 60 (I just made that up, it's probably way off)

Howdy ya'll!!

This week has been soo good!  I think my body is beginning to fall apart though...my knees feel really old and sore from biking and everything.  Is that supposed to happen when you're 21?  Haha, but everything else is great.

We met two incredible girls this week, Makisha and Alice.  They are staying with their grandma for a while, and they have both been through a lot in their lives.  They both have such great faith in Jesus Christ, and really want to follow Him.  They came to church on Sunday with their little cousin and they want to just keep learning and be baptized!!  They are so sweet and we are praying that their example will soften their grandpa's heart and the hearts of the rest of their family.

Luckily on Sunday we had young men and young women from other wards visiting, so they didn't have to come into the adults lesson.  We went with them, and it feels like it has been ages since I've been in young womens.  It was heaps of fun :) 

We did a bit of service this week--helped Schaefen plant his vegetable patch, tear out a brick wall, and more fun stuff.  We went to help this less active clean her house, and the she lives on a crescent street with a park in the middle, so there are a lot of kids hanging out around there.  We biked up and these little boys challenged us to a race.  We made a deal with them that if we won they had to listen to a lesson, and if they won we would give them a candy (lots of Halloween candy).  Well I've found someone more competitive than I am...Sister Ahlstrom demolished these lke 8-9 year olds haha.  Like we were biking, and you know how you stay close to them to make them feel good?  Apparently that is not the Swedish way haha.  It was so funny.  

But I love the kids in this town.  They are pretty friendly and they all know us.  The hard part is remembering names.

I am learning more and more how much power the scriptures have.  They are AMAZING.  And understanding more and more how much I need Christ's atonement. And how much we all need it.  How loving Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are that they provided a way for us to be forgiven, cleansed from our mistakes, comforted and strengthened in everything we go through, if we but turn to and follow Christ.

Last week we met this man at a potential's house who really didn't seem keen at all.  But we left our phone number with him and told him to call us if he wanted to learn or if he needed any help.  This week we ran into him on the street, and had a really good conversation.  We gave him a Book of Mormon and he said he might call us next week (still not super open).  We prayed for him to have the courage to call us, and two days later he texted and called asking if we could meet with him!  He read over 17 chapters before he called us.  When we came to his house, he'd been drinking a little bit--not much, but still.  (I think his body is pretty used to it though) But he could tell that everything we were saying was true.  The spirit was there and he couldn't deny it.  He wouldn't come to church or agree to be baptized, but he didn't say no to being baptized.  He is such a cool guy, and he's been through so much as well.  I always say that, but everyone has.  Everyday I recognize more and more just how blessed I have been by the gospel and my family choosing to follow it.  We'll keep meeting with him. and he'll get there :) 

I think that I have had more opportunities to actually teach here in Northam than most of my mission combined ha.  It is the best!  And the spirit tells you when someone knows that it is true, but they aren't always willing to act on it.  People have a lot of trouble with commitment here, and that is not the best.  It breaks your heart when you love them so much and want it so badly for them and they just turn away.  But I know that I might not always be there, but the Saviour is.  And He is always leading, and encouraging us.  

The church is true.  There's not a doubt in my mind of that.  The gospel blesses our families in so many ways it is indescribable. And that's just here on earth.  Through the restored gospel, we can be with our families for eternity.  The happiness it brings is something everyone would want if they understood it.  And You can see the difference, and anyone who has any questions about it, find the missionaries.  Or email me :)

I love you all!!  Have an amazing week!!

Love,

Sister Formica

Busy Busy Busy :)

Hola!  I know it hasn't been too long, but I don't really remember what has happened.

This morning as a zone we went on a hike, and it was BEAUTIFUL!  I love Australia! 

Also I got my package, THANK YOU!!!  So much candy

My birthday was awesome!  Sister Ahlstrom gave me a backrub and breakfast, and the carnival was a lot of fun!  Oh and the night before we carved mini pumpkins. Party! I'll send pictures next week! 

We had 4 kids come to church on Sunday--their grandpa dropped them off and picked them up. Hopefully he'll come next week.  They were so good. The oldest is 11 and the youngest is 5.  We are seeing them and their dad tonight :)

Yesterday we saw a young couple that we had met when we first got to Northam.  They had friends coing over, but we got to sit down with them for a couple minutes and they had so many questions and really were shocked at how we live.  But they said that they needed to start going to church!  Then their friends cae and were a bit crazy, but we'll see them this week.

Meaghan is doing really well too (that's the other less active woman that we met).  She has come to church every week and was at the carnival on Saturday :)

Last month, Sister Tukuafu and I met this lady in town who told us halfway through the conversation that she was a member of the church.  She said she wasn't interested in it at all, but accepted our number and said she'd call us if she ever needed help.  She called last week and we went by and just helped her around the house.  She joined the church years and years ago and fell away because she married someone who wasn't a member.  I don't know what or when it happened, but her attitude changed completely and she came to church this Sunday and bore her testimony even.  She dug up a newspaper article on the church that was really old and really cool and brought it to share with everyone. 

Her hand is hurt, but when it's better, maybe we'll have someone to play the hymns!

I don't remember if I told you this last week, but the Penstones are moving up waaay far away (distance wise as far as Melbourne, but just up North to the middle of who knows where).  I'm super excited for them, but sad for us.  Luckily they leave in January, so they'll be here pretty much the whole time I will be.  So 3 months...good thing Heavenly Father is able to do His own work! 

Anyways, I have to run, but you all are the best!!!  Have a great week.  I love you!!

Love,

Sister Formica 

Here's a link to one of our favorite family songs from Sandra Boynton's Philadelphia Chickens album:  titled, Busy, Busy, Busy.  www.youtube.com/watch?v=hCuo6Q_83Rc  

Hej everyone!

And no Hej isn't a typo, it's hello in Swedish!

Sorry about last week, it was a bit hectic, but we have more time today :) 

Yes that's a fly on my face--you shoo twenty away and stop to take the picture, and they come back in seconds.  There are soooo many, especially out where we were.  Not quite as bad as the pictures I saw before my mission, but it's not summer yet...Sister Ahlstrom and I are just going to get fly nets or else we won't survive ha.  

Last week was a bit weird, but ended really well.  Friday there was a funeral in town for an aboriginal father and son. They had so many family members come into town for it.  We were able to help out afterwards with food and cleaning up.  While we were there, a man came up to us and asked if there was a chapel in Northam.  Turns out he and his wife are looking for a church, and they attend church off and on in Como and I'd met him there once before!  Small world. They go back and forth between Perth and Baker's Hill, about 15 minutes out of Northam.  He was telling us that he has a large print version of the Book of Mormon that he is reading through :) We gave him and his wife the address and time, and we will see them the next time they come back from Perth!

Saturday we helped a less active man, Brother Thomas move into his new house.  He moved out about 30 minutes further into the bush.  There's nothing really out there, just fields and some trees, and it is gorgeous!  I love Australia!  We rocked up and he had two other friends there helping, one of whom we had contacted the week before who was very kind but not interested.  We talked as we moved and they both are always helping people out and trying to do good deeds, and they really liked that we try to do the same thing.  When we finished moving, we asked if they wanted to know what else we do as missionaries, and we shared a message with them and gave them each a Book of Mormon and they committed to read it and pray about it.  It's so cool to see a little bit of Heavenly Father's work in preparing his children and softening their hearts bit by bit. We aren't teaching him yet, but we are bound to run into him here in Northam. I love small towns. 

One of the miracles from last week was that we were trying to contact a referral and instead we found a less active member who moved here about a year ago and didn't know that there was a church in Northam. She's been the last two weeks with her 3 kids, who are already friends with the Penstones and their group of friends!  I think I might have already told you guys that, but there it is again :) Oh well.  And her daughter is 7 years old, and LOVES church.  She loves learning and praying and she wanted her own scriptures.  She wants to be a teacher, and she is going to be the best missionary :) When we got there, first thing she asked was if she could say the prayer.  And then she said the most beautiful, sincere prayer.  And she told us that she and Connor Penstone prayed at school together.  So sweet hey?

Last night, Sister Penstone came with us to see a woman we just started teaching, but she wasn't home.  We went to see another investigator, Keith, and it was perfect.  He doesn't believe God is there, because in the past he had prayed desperately and asked for help, and he didn't feel like he got an answer.  He's been really hesitant about praying, because he doesn't feel sincere, and he doesn't want to do something just because someone else is doing it.  Last night though, he really felt the spirit and understood what he needs to do to find out if God is there.  He agreed to experiment and pray and read the scriptures, etc.  Those are my favourite moments, when someone feels the spirit, and is humble and willing to do whatever it takes to find Him. I really can't describe it, but hopefully you know what I mean. 

The Penstones are having a Halloween carnival with the members and other friends of theirs.  We are helping them out with different things, and it'll be a lot of fun!  Better than a trunk or treat, so I'm satisfied haha.

We have the BEST members.  Brother Watts drove half an hour on Monday to come to a lesson with us, and he is the man.  He knows everything I swear. And has such a strong testimony, it was such a good lesson, and the man we were teaching very clearly understood God's plan, and said it explained so many experiences he's had in his life.  He's got a lot of things working against him, but if he turns to Heavenly Father, he'll have all the strength he needs to make changes in his life.

Last news, I got TWO flat tires last week.  The first time I ran over a little metal cigarette thing and it went straight through my tire.  President Penstone has a bunch of old bike parts, so he gave me a tube and tire and put a different brake cable on for my back brakes because the one I had was ruined.  We fixed the tire the next morning, and rode on it that day, and then by the next morning, my tire was flat again.  My bike is basically falling apart, it's all good ha.  We didn't have time to buy another tube and fix it, so we decided that Heavenly Father was saying take a little break from the bikes haha.  But we dropped it off at a bike place and they fixed it while we were on the go.  I need to buy replacement tubes to have so we can just fix it quickly, because I don't think that this is the end of the punctures.  Northam is dangerous for tires.

Well, that was pretty much our week.  Only other thing is that I am learning I am a Child of God in Swedish.  I love missionary work, and I wouldn't choose to be anywhere else or doing anything else right now.  Even swimming ha.  I am grateful for truth and standards in a world that is changing all the time.  Truth never changes. I am grateful for the scriptures and prophets who teach us truth that allows us to be safe physically and spiritually.  

I hope you all have an incredible week!

Hejdo!  (Goodbye in Swedish)

Love,

Sister Formica

P.S. The pictures are from Meckering--where Brother Thomas moved to.  There's an earthquake site out there, where they preserved the ruins of a house and we took a couple pictures when we drove by.  I'm not sure why they preserved it, but the sign says that the baby's cot was right there and that it was a miracle that the wall fell outward instead of onto the cot.