Fajitas for Thanksgiving Argentina style! and a quick note from Dad

Note from Dad...

Oh so busy a life of a missionary from our church! My daughter is no exception! She and her companion work from sun up to sun down and beyond. They work so hard to find people to teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ too. This mission is completely about teaching people and helping them find faith on their own accord with the help from the missionaries on how to do this. There is no physical home or church building involved, nothing else but working with and teaching people. They do find people on foot and by asking and inviting as they meet people. The best way to find people is through faithful members who introduce their non member friends to the hear special missionary lessons. They teach gospel truths. They teach the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saint church beginnings and about the church restoration. They teach doctrine that all makes a lot of sense and sometime in your life you to should hear these lessons if you haven't. I think you will find that these young men and women who teach have a testimony of the gospel and they want to spread the good word of Jesus Christ and his great message. Here are a couple of examples of people who made the commitment. From Elissa:


Things are good here in the south.

Thanksgiving was great. It didn't even feel like Thanksgiving. We found a fajita mix so we made some delicious fajitas - with homemade tortillas and all! And then we had interviews with President. I love interviews!! President Asay is an inspired man that really has been called to be my president. I am so grateful for him.

We also had the baptisms of Yolie and Siliva. It was so nice. They were so happy and peaceful. I am very happy for them, now they just have to live the gospel. It is a huge change people make to accept Christ in their lives. And it is difficult. But it is so worth it.

We met this cute young family and the mom goes to dance classes with her daughter and little sister. We decided to stop by with our recent convert Lily. It was sooooooo cool! I loved it! It was in this lightly lit room with tile floors and no mirrors. The dance instructor was a little on the bigger side and was smoking her cigarettes while demonstrating. But they danced folklore - which is a dance from Argentina, of course. We only watched for a little ratito. But I loved every second of it. It has been pretty humid so of course they were all sweaty and gross. but that just makes it even better for dance classes like that. Well anyway the ladies name is Celeste, she and her daughter and sister came to church with us. She stayed for all of it! But it is always a little stressful: we talked a lot about the millennium and family history. You never know what people that are visiting the church for the first time are thinking. But that is why we have the gift of making our own decisions. So we will see what happens! Yea!

con amor,
hermanita Urban

Elissa's tips for future packages:

• Send packages US POSTAL EXPRESS
• Address the packages to: Buenos Aires South Mission
• On the Return address put MY name (that way the mission can pick them up but they know it is mine b/c my name is on the top)
• Do not send it FedEx or DHL.
• Pictures of the Virgin Mary might help get it through customs.
• Bethany's tip- send Christmas packages now/ASAP!

gratitude

PICS:

my cool roof.

we had "girls night" last night. which consisted of a roof top moment accompanied with some yummy food and my ipod.

this huge cemetery in our area.

It really doesn´t even feel like Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving doesn´t exist here so nobody has been talking about it. But I know that I am grateful for Thanksgiving. Who doesn´t LOVE the holidays?!

This week was great. We had an amazing zone conference. Life changing pretty much.

We have been practicing for Noche De Luz. Our first performances are next week. I am trying to not let my nerves get the best of me. (maybe send some prayers in that direction).

We have been working really hard and are seeing some great progress in this area. We have 2 baptisms this Sunday and more to come. It is so great to see the work take off. I have a huge testimony of working with members. They are the key . . . well really WE are the key. I am a member too. In the future I am going to out with those missionaries and make them work! haha. We teach about 8-10 lessons every week WITH a member. In some areas of the world they only teach that amount of lessons. If the wards here can do it, any ward can do it. honestly. Especially our ward.

Yolie and Siliva are the two women that will be baptized this week. They are both very simple women that don´t have the greatest amount of education. But the gospel has completely changed their lives. They have the desires to do things now. They have purpose. After our first visit with Yolie she took the Book of Mormon, held it, pretty much hugged it and felt "something." Her friend, Delfina, was recently baptized earlier this year, and Yolie was just waiting to have what Delfina now has.

It really is like this. People want more to this life. They want purpose and happiness. They just don´t know where to look for it or ask for it. People are waiting for the happiness that so many of us already have. That is why I am on a mission. To give people the happiness that I have. Because no matter your situation in life, coming unto Christ and changing your life for Him, makes your situation a happy one.

Well, Happy Thanksgiving! I will probably be walking in some dead heat. So take a really good nap for me, after eating some delicious turkey and pumpkin pie.

I am grateful to be here. I am grateful for my family that supports me!! I am grateful for the hard experiences. I am grateful for fans at night. I am grateful for the my friends. I am grateful for my extended family (misses and kisses). I am grateful for ped socks. I am grateful for the car ride I had today with Hermana Asay (the first nice care ride since being here). I am grateful for letters, pictures, and packages. I am grateful for my Heavenly Father and His son Jesus Christ. His sacrifice for me.


Hope you all have a great holiday. I miss you all lots.

Loves.
Hermanita Urban

this little ditty

*i took the liberty of editing these pics a bit, for fun. :) enjoy. love, bethany

me [elissa] and hna zollinger on a bus:

this lady we sing to and read to:

Lily and rocio´s 2 dogs out of the 3. I love them.

A ver . . . ¿que pasó este semana? . . .

Things are going really well. We worked a ton this past week and by last night we were just dead. And the thing with the mission is that there is no rest time. it does not exist. You just have to keep going.

Lily was confirmed yesterday. She was so happy. We taught her daughter, Rocio, who reminds me soooooo much of Janelle so of course I just love her to pieces. She will get baptized soon too. We just have to set the date and then work like crazy.

Right now we are working with about 5 people who already have baptismal dates and so we are running around like crazy helping them come unto Christ. Baptism is the front door, but there is so many layers to the gospel that we have to continue in the gospel so we can keep learning and discovering.

I have been thinking a lot about knowledge. Kendra sent me this AMAZING quote of how people spend their lives studing a certain topic, such as: the arts, sciences, history, politics. But the works and mysteries of God completely surpass all of those. A depth study of scripture and the things of the Lord, one would really know that He does exsist. The more I learn, the more I realize how much I do not know. So much passes my understanding. But that is where faith comes into play.

I am so grateful for faith. It can actually be a power.

anyway . . .

It is getting hot.

What is everyone up to?

It is crazy how Christmas is coming up. It feels like I should be going to Elitches, the pool, road trips . . . Because summer is coming.

Well sorry this email isn´t all that great.

I love you all so much. Don´t forget that I am here and that I miss all of you soooooooooo much. Knowing that I have people that love and support me is huge on the mission.

Tell my friends (except the good ones that write) that they are lame buckets and need to write me. (but i still love them)

con amor,
Hermanita Urban

We Got Access to this cute picture when Hermana Urban was on a preparation Day...a missionary day off

Can you pick her out? This is during a day of: Argentino Futbol. Also known as soccer. Argentina has the world record for most international titles won by any national team. You can tell it has made an impact on these missionaries. The people must talk about it like we talk about our Football which you know as like our Denver Broncos or CU Buffs etc. I am very excited that this Saturday I am going to the Air Force vs BYU game in Colorado Springs!

Click on the picture to enlarge!

happiness

This week was absolutely amazing. We had one day of unbearable heat. We just walk around all day tired and dying. Our Pench is like an oven and the only thing we have is this fan. My comp said that this is how it is during Christmas – completely hot – so it is really early in the year and it will only get worse. I will die!

Yesterday was just an absolutely amazing day. The spirit was so strong all the day long. I woke up smiling for the baptism of Lily. We went to church and then the milagros just poured in. We had 7 investigators come to church. Record for this area! It was the primary program and those little kids just brought a sweet love to everyone. Then we had gospel principle class, taught by hermana Miño, it was about the law of chastity. I know, a little nerve racking for 7 investigators. But I cannot even tell you the amazing spirit in that class. One of our investigators started to cry and everyone was listening, talking with so much love and respect. The Spirit really is our teacher, if we allow it. And there is a huge security that this law really does come from God; that the sanctity of the body should be kept with high respect. I just thought of everyone I loved & how I wish they would apply this principle in their lives. Because Happiness is found within obedience.

After the classes we had the baptism. It was so great and I am so happy for Lily, she is an amazing women. Her two daughters and her aunt were planning on coming but they were really late. But they came por fin and I know it made the day even more special for her. Hermana Zollinger sang Come thou Fount but in Spanish.

Afterward we worked and visited some of members and recent converts because Hermana Zollinger is leaving. Now my companion is Hermana Tracy from Missouri. I am really excited. And even more excited about this area. Together we are gonna work really hard and help people find real happiness.

Hey REALLY COOL random note: my amazing, spiritual bishop, who is an incredible leader was companions with Donny Osmond on his mission. How cool is THAT!!!!

I also hit my 9 months this week. Weird.

I am praying for everyone. It is hard that things just keep going on and I have not the biggest idea of what REALLY is going on with anyone; but just know that I love your letters. And more importantly know that I love you and think of you and hope that the Lord will pour out His blessings on my family and my friends.

Our trials help us have opportunities of obedience. They help us reach a new level of faith. As members of the Christ´s church we have the opportunities to pass some moments through Gethsemane so we can become more like Him. It is incredibly hard. But it is possible.

Grandma I love you.

Love you,
Hermana Urban

the city and halloween

Well, I writing early today because my district is going to this flower garden place today and we
have a lot of traveling to do as well as noche de Luz practice. Speaking of noche de luz I have a solo and I might net my pants/skirt. I still get utterly nervous. My solo is in Oh Holy Night. I have a hard time not wanting to sing it NSYNC style – but I will compile with the good ol´non-pop.

This week we put on a sweet ward activity. It was a good ol´ ice cream social. It was a little stressful. We had to run around (because we walk everywhere!) and it was really hot so we weren´t the most pretty things. But we were able to get it all together and let everyone know about it. It was a great success. People came and brought friends (the purpose of the activity) and ate ice-cream and played games. It was great!

Also my Halloween has nothing in comparison with Kendra's (I saw pics) but We stopped by a kiosco that had Halloween candy. So there! Haha but it was funny bc me and my comp walk in and we want to take pics with this Halloween sign and then all these people started to come in because there were two north Americans all excited over this kisoco halloweened-up. I did dress up though. As my comp. I wore her tag, clothes and my hair like hers. She dressed up as me. It was sweet.

Lily is doing great and will be baptized this coming Sunday. We are soooooooo excited. She is seriously this amazing light. I love her! Transfers are also next week. I think that Hna Zollinger might maybe may leave. She has been in this area for 6 months. A lot of people are attached to her, making it hard on whoever comes in and on me. But I have no doubt in what President Asay decides. He is an inspired leader; So if she stays or goes, or if I stay or go all will be fine. As long as I am working with and for the Lord it will work out.

Well I gotta go sorry this was short. I love you all sooo much. I should be getting Grandmas package this week.

LOVE
Hermana Urbs

Halloween week... she will miss it... Not in Argentina!

Well, things are good! Hna Zollinger and I had a goal to teach 21 lessons with member which is crazy – almost record breaking. Even crazier because we walk everywhere and we need to have willing members. But we did it! Yeah. It was neat. I don't have ALL that much to say at this moment and time. I am actually really tired and hoping for a nap today. My first in a LONG time . . .Yesterday was stake conference and Bishop Keith McMullin from the bishopric came. It was very good. And it was cool to see the chapel full! I was very impressed with how many people came and looked prepared to be edified. (is that how you spell that?) SO hey Halloween is this week!! It just so happens to be my favorite holiday. I just love it. It doesn´t exist here. But there is a little Kisco that has a poster that says Halloween on it and they are invited little kids to come, or something. They also invited us. The lady was really excited showing us the little decorations she has. Haha. Well sorry that this is a short email with none of my random deep thoughts -haha.

Photos: Lunch with Delfina and Havana and their neighbor Irma, in Delfina´s home. She lives upstairs but this is the entrance.

Love you with all my heart.

Hermana urban

my this

today's e-mail, posted by Bethany

Welp another sweet week in Banfield. Things are good and the sun is out- I will probably start getting some great sister missionary tan lines pretty soon. Yesterday was Mother's Day in Argentina. Making me think about my mommy. I love you! President and Hermana Asay came to our ward yesterday and President gave a little talk – so good!!! I was so happy because we had an investigator in church, Lily, who is such a great mom and woman and I know she really enjoyed his talk. Lily is sooo cute. She is in her 40´s but looks like her 20´s – she has kept really good care of herself. She came to church in 4-inch heels with her makeup all done. It was great. I just think she is great.

After church we had lunch with Hermana Mino and her family. Hermana Mino is a little lady who is actually the mammita for the mission home. Meaning she helps with cleaning, and cooking. Her and Hermana Asay have become really good friends, and Hermana Asay has taught her a few American tricks. So yesterday for lunch we had mashed potatoes, roast beef, and gravy! The beef isn´t much of a surprise, but with the gravy! It was just a happy little moment. But Hermana Mino and her family are amazing. They are what a family should be. She raised her kids in the gospel and they are firm in the faith. We just feel so happy there. It is not our home or our family or our language or anything – but the feelings are there.

There is this lady that lives by us who has been involved with drugs for 17 years: which is a lot considering she is 31. It is so sad. She has a lot of potential. We will stop and chat, give her some hope and light. The problem is, the drugs have just completely taken over her. She does not have a lot of room to think for herself. Unfortunately, we as missionaries, can´t do much to help her. I know the gospel. But it made me think – It doesn't not matter your status in society, the country you live in, the language you speak. The things of the world destroy the soul. I think of people I know, in nice suburbs of Denver, who are living the exact same life as this lady. But on the other hand, It is the same with love. Just a couple streets over from here we felt so much love and comfort in the home of Hermana Mino. I am grateful that I can distinguish between the things of Satan and the things of God.

We have been seeing some great reactivation into the church lately. We read the talk "the concern for the one" by Joseph B. Wirthlin from April conference with the Ullua family. I have never seen such attention from them. I think that if everyone in the world would read . . . no not just read, but Apply these things, the world would be a much better place.

I really like working in this here broax of Argentina.

Hey Natalie Smith: I knew you could do it and I am sooooo happy for you!!!!

Well, that is about all for today.

I love you all. Sorry there is a lack of pics – no camera plug in thing. But hey I didn't get any emails . (big cry!)

LOVE and HOPE
Hermanita Urban

A Special Couple Came To Town! The House of the Lord...the most special place on Earth!

Buenos Aires Temple...They just announced the 2nd Temple to be built in Argentina!

Note from Dad...and then Elissa's letter. This is Jim here...seeing pictures like this is a real treat. Looking at these pictures is no different than if you were going to the Temple in the States. This sacred building yes is just a building...but is dedicated to the Lord as his house. Special ordinances are performed here for the living and those who died who didn't get the opportunity to hear or accept God's saving ordinances. If you have not heard of this before you must ask me more about it. It follows history of God's chosen people throughout history who were commanded to build Temples. Remember Solomon's Temple? Sure you do. There were actually others who were also commanded to build Temples even hundred even thousands of years ago. Today is no different. I love our church because it is following this charge and we are a Temple building people. Heavenly Father smiles when we build another Temple... here is Elissa's letter...


¡Hola todos!

This week has been crazy. Today we took our p-day because we went to the temple today! The transport was long. But it was very nice. And I made the Hermanas in my zone wear their "Judy dresses". Because we all have them and I still haven´t found the courage to go full sister missionary look yet so I found friends to do it with me! haha.

Um Last Night was amazing.We had a special little visit from someone known as Elder Russell M Nelson and his wife Wendy (General Authority from the church). It was really cool. I sat front center. I shook his hand and hugged Wendy. Love her. The whole mission gathered together and we all sat and talked doctrine with an apostle. He ended by giving us a blessing, and apostolic blessing, as if he was touching each of our heads. It was so amazing.

Being a missionary is a huge blessing. It was the best decision of my life thus far. I learn so much from things that I see and experience everyday.

There is an amazing family that are new to the church Delfina (mom), Ivan (son, 21) and Hevvana (daughter 15). They are an amazing family - if I could I would be with them 24/7. Their lives have completely changed from the gospel and they are so willing to share it with everyone. Ivan through a party the other day just so we could come by and talk with people. so we are going to start teaching them. it was actually a funny and awkward experience this so called party. But I loved it.

Our mission is huge! There are about 209 of us. We are having a lot of success. We are the most improving and most baptizing mission of all Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay. They are sending lots of missionaries here because it is doing so well. I know that it is because of obedience.
Without this factor there is no way that this work could progress.

Well, anyway, out of this precious time, I must go. Elder Nelson mentioned that my loved ones will blessed while I am away. So just so you know.

LOVES
Hermana Urban

Pictures Speak A Thousand Words...Elissa had a Birthday September 27th and is now 22!

Elissa was intrigued with the fact that San Vicente had a circus come to town!

She looks like they treated her well on her Birthday!

This is Elissa's Dad...Pictures are so loved by friends and family back home because just seeing some of the wonderful things that are going on make it so exciting. You know these same wonderful things are going on right here in our home town (Denver). Don't be shy...because I get asked on a regular basis how Elissa is doing. It is so fun to find different ways to answer that question. Lets get together for lunch and talk about our children and how they are doing. Something as significant as having a daughter on a mission in Argentina can lead to wonderful conversation :) Enjoy this letter-

Well, my family of mine things are good here in the Argentine world. The area that I am in right now is like the broax of New York but in Argentina. The streets are a little confusing but I will get it. We have an investigator that works at a fruit stand and he always gives us fruit - delicious!!! The Book of Mormon is changing his life! I love the church!! Did you not just LOVE conference?? Wow that was sooo good! Mario, our fruit man, came to the last session! We watched it with him. But both morning sessions we watched in English - my native tongue! Saturday night we worked and we had a great experience running into a lady who has 2 grandchildren on a mission. She is catholic. She told us that her son (who is a bishop) and his family has been praying for the missionaries (us) to find her. So this lady, Fina, has been waiting for us. cool! So we just chat with her about her family. Her husband had an accident and now cannot walk or talk. She says it is like raising a child again. Her spirits were down and told us that God sent us to her so we could lift her spirits. We have plans to go back and sings songs to her husband and help her out. We left completely stunned. We so badly wanted to watch the general conference session but there is a reason why we did not. I love being a part of Christ´s Church.

Things are good, the sun is coming out. It is going to be crazy hot soon. I really love being a missionary. My life is changing as I am helping change others. I love you all soooooo much and miss you sooo much!!! Thanks for writing (those who do . . . ) Because YOU ROCK!!! and if you don't - then you should... ha ha

Loves,

Hermana Urban

The Joy of being a Missionary and transferred to Banfield 4 Area!

Hola Familia Oh como Les amo!!!Well my birthday was great actually. First off I started my week with a zone activity (last Monday) we had waffles and watched the Lion King! YES!!! And I have to hand it to the Elders – they went fullout on the waffles and made a huge waffle birthday plate for me! Also during our activity the Elders brought me two great amazing birthday joyed packages from the offices!!! It was AMAZING!! Thanks sooo much. Seriously packages are just little loves filled treasures. I felt very loved and full of sugered waffles. Haha. Well, then we worked during the week and had some great success. I love San Vicente. I know things will jsut get better and better in San Vicente. The members need a lot of help but we have an amazing brach President now and his wife is so great. I have so much respect for this women. Shs is such a strong women.

Well, our branch and another ward had a service activity this Saturday = my brithday. No one from the Branch came but Hermana Olsen and I had a great time. We pulled out weeds and made a veggie garden for this little neighborhood. It was a great morning. And the sun is coming out more and so we even got some sun. (Hermana Olsen took pics so I will have to send ya´ll some later). After that we had lunch with a family. Argentines are insane about birthdays so they knew that it was mine. They kept making jokes that they were going to break eggs over my head to celebrate. Oh the Domingez family. They actually bought me a cake and everything. I have pictures but this computer is not working. Sorry about the unreliablity. Saturday was actually the last Saturday in the transfer, with that comes phone calls from our leaders telling us if we stay, leave or what not. Hermana Olsen and I were sure that we were going to stay together. But then we got our little phone call telling us that I was leaving!! AGH! So I am no longer in San Vicente nor with Hermana Olsen. !Que Raro! I am now in Banfield 4 area. It is more city life. And it is a lot closer to the mission home and the church building where will be having ¨Noche de Luz¨practices. Oh Noche de Luz is this christmas program that the mission puts on. I had to audition and everything! But I am singing again! Yay! We will be singing all chirstmas songs and then performing them and i am sooooo excited to be a part of it. YES!!!!! Also my new companion is amazing and i am in love with her. Hermana Zollinger – she is actually from Colorado. How cool is that???? Two little coloradains rocking the argentine world! I am soooo sad to leave San Vicente. There were just a lot of good feelings there. It is hard to leave an area and to not know what kind of difference that you have made. But from when I came to san vicente to now I can already see huge changes. There is great potential. But it wasn´t me, It was the Lord. When we are working- He works right along side with us.

Oh today during transfer meeting I got a package from Grandma and Grandpa Clonts!! Oh my goodness it is some really really really great brownie mix from this delicious bakery mix place in Utah . . . via DearElder. (love DearElder). I am sooooooo excited to make it and love every bite. Dont worry i will share!!! I could never eat all of it. But yes I love those cookies/brownie/bar mixes. Delicious. I will have to walk it all off . . .Well I love you all so much. I love being a missionary. This really is the work of the Lord.

Hermana Urban

Hey what is going on with the states?? I am lost.

Prayer... when were you taught? There are some good lessons the missionaries can teach you that you should know...

Hola mis corazones;

Well this week was great, and as the days went on I realizad that we were running into a lot of service within the Branch. So some of our plans changed to help out some people in times of need, but at the end of the week we realized just how much the Lord blessed us. We were able to teach a lot of people and we have high hopes for everyone!!!

This one little moment keeps popping into my head: So you know our "Jack Sparrow" guy? Well, anyway we have been teaching his two daughters english. They are so gorgeous and smart and fun. I love them. Well, we never really talk about religion with them but then it came up (bound to when you are a missionary) with his youngest who is 13 but looks like she is 15. Ramon (Jack) told us that his daughters don't know anything about God or anything because he wants them to decide for themselves what is true. We responded with "perfect!!! We can introduce her to God and then she can decide." We went to the very basics with her. I asked her if she has had experience with prayer ever and she hasn´t. It blew me away for a moment. Prayer!?! So we told her that there actually exsists a God, a loving Heavenly Father that lives in the heavens and loves us personally. That we are daughters of Him- which makes us sacred and very special. Then we went on to explain that through prayer we can talk to Him. Tell him every little worry we have, every rejoice we have and what we need. I just remember Vanina looking at me . . . wrapping her mind around this concept.

The truth is we can´t actually stand in front of God, talk face to face with him. I cannot prove any of this is real. But when one feels the promptings of the Holy Ghost, the small feelings that really this is TRUE, one cannot deny it. I think that Vanina felt that for the first time. That she is more then just a another living breathing being on the earth, but a soul that is worth so much in the eyes of God.But it got me thinking. Wow she is just introduced to prayer now – at age 13. I tried to remember my first experience ever with prayer. I cannot put an age on it. But I remember kneeling by my bed at night with Dad kneeling next to me. And he was helping me say my prayer. And one of the things that Dad told me to pray for was: a worthy man that could take me to the temple one day. Haha!!! I think I remember that because I remember thinking "why am I praying for that while I am so young?!" So yup – that was my first (remembered) experience with prayer.

Prayer has always been something that I can go to in a time of need. Every moment in my life, when I had to make a decision I would go to Prayer. God is there. He does want to hear about our thoughts and our needs. I am so grateful for prayer and a Heavenly Father that listens. I am also so grateful that my parents taught me what prayer is, that we can and should apply it into our lives. Well love you all and you are all in my prayers!!!

Hermanita Urban

A Life Changing Conference!

Alright… So I apologize for the short email last week.

This week was fabulous! On Wednesday we have zone conference with Elder Bowen of the 70. Unfortunately I woke up all through the night with some sort of sickness. Usually I don’t care if I am sick or what not I will still do what I have to do. But this morning it was just impossible. I couldn’t and didn’t go. Hermana Olsen went with some other hermanas and I stayed in our pension. It was weird. I mostly just slept. Well they came back after hours of boredom and loneliness, and told me that it, of course, was amazing!!!!! Oh well, I missed it and that was that. And we planned for the next day. (I was then feeling much better). Well, in the morning I was still feeling sad that I missed this amazing conference and knowing that they were going to have it again that day, but in a different (very far area) got me thinking . . . maybe I could still go! I remembered how there is a bus that goes directly to La Plata (where the conference was) from San Vicente. I called president Asay to see if I could try to go and He said that if I make it there at 9:30 then I could go. It was 7:20 – called the bus place – they were leaving at 7:30 going to arrive at 9:10 PERFECT!!! Except for the fact that we were still in our pjs – no make up – no nada. So I changed really fast and we ran!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (I brought my makeup)We made it there with time to stop by the bathroom. Ha-ha. The Lord really looks out for us.

Basically the conference was life changing! First off, I really feel as though I got sick for a reason - because I had to go to this one – which had things tailored to my needs. Secondly, I am sooooooo grateful that I can understand Spanish so much better now. We talked about a lot of doctrine and so I am so happy that trying to understand wasn’t taking away from the learning. The Spirit was immensely strong and I have come to realize once again how important the Holy Ghost is. Through the spirit we are truly brought to another level of learning. Things completely click. We talked about – who we are as a generation. How truly many are called but few are chosen. We can be chosen through our obedience. Elder and Hermana Bowen´s Spanish was beautiful. The conference made me want to step it all up to a new level – my Spanish, my teaching, my knowledge of the gospel. I just left walking on this cloud of spirituality happiness.

The church is true.

And one can know it, through sincerity and openness to the Holy Ghost.

Well I have got to get going I love you all soooooooo much. You are all in my prayers.

Hermana Urban

From a Dad's perspective...

This is Elissa'a Dad. This is one of those moments where it is my turn to post a quick note just before Elissa says a few things in the posting just below. I can't tell you the feeling I have everyday when I think about my daughter on a mission for the Lord. Can you imagine how you might feel knowing that your child is serving in this capacity? I prefer to not use the word proud. I choose to use the word blessed. I had someone tell me recently that they felt like the word blessed was over used. I tend to agree. I would reserve the word blessed for very sacred and amazing things. Just like your daughter or son serving a mission for the Lord. I more than anything want to emulate what she is doing. In other words if you have been a regular reader of this blog or not... maybe a friend of Elissa's, maybe a friend of mine, maybe a friend of our family. I am totally serious about how you might feel about investigating a most amazing faith. A message about Christ. Are you a person who seems to be intersted in spiritual things? If you are we are holding 5 short and well organized meetings to discuss a message of Christ I really think you would be interested in. To learn more about when these will be held contact me at: Jim@HomeReferralTeam.net Have a wonderful day and enjoy Elissa's message this week!

trains and doors

We worked really hard this week and saw a lot of success. We are really focusing on the basics - which I love, meaning reading and praying. It is our way of building faith and through it we are able to build our foundation on Christ. I love being a missionary. One really can find so much about themselves in the midst of "losing their lives." Make sure you are reading and praying.

me on a train:

Lomas, where the offices are. i took this pic today:

this is a cool creepy door in san vicente:

lady in the water

Well my loves this week rocked my face off!

Now that I look at the week it seems like it was forever ago but in the midst of it it went by pretty fast.

Well, first off my little comp has been having really bad back pain. So much that she stayed home one morning and I went and worked with a mini, Andrea. Andrea is great and is such a hard worker. So Andrea and I went out to work and teach and find, all that good stuff. Well, anyway just as soon as we were going to go back home for lunch Andrea tells me that someone fell in the "sanha." The sanha are ditches on the sides of the dirt roads from peoples showers, kitchens and things of that sort. Dogs will drink from it and develop diseases. Yeah it is all pretty gross at times. Well, to have someone fall in it would be a tragic experience. So I was a little bit taken back that someone actually did. So we run up to this lady, Alicia, and helped her get back on her feet. Well anyway, I could tell that she was frazzled and she started to tell us about herself. Basically she needs some stability in her life. So we let her know that our message brings peace and understanding in this life and Salvation for the next (who wouldn´t want that?)- So we taught her about the Restoration. That same day she went by herself to the relief society activity. Can you believe it?? So we are really excited.

Well, basically I also lived a bit of a dream. Because of my comps back pain we had to go see the mission doctor. His office is in Capital. So we went to Buenos Aires for a day. We we early to our appointment so we got a Mcflurry at Mcdonalds. (a fake one because they are NOT the same!) and it is so funny Mcdonalds here is somewhat cool. It is where people go with their girlfriends to chat, or take their laptops and do business meetings, etc. It makes me laugh. But the one we went to had a balcony so we sat and ate our fake ice cream. I took a pic of my view.
Well, then we went to the Doctor. Of course he told her to take ibprophen.

Afterward we went to Jumbo. Let me tell you about Jumbo. It is a almost like a Target. SO I just relished, because, even though I have nothing against my cute little supermarcardos and fruit stands, it felt really good to have options and find things that I actually enjoy. They have an ethic food section (haha) and in the united States area they had Craisins. So I bought them! Yummy! Well, it was then time for lunch. We went to CALIFORNIA BURRITO!!! Ok so all the Argentines hang out at McDonalds. But the Americans go to California Burrito. It is the smallest little restaurant, but it is exactly like Qboda. After 6 months of not having my favorite food. I just about died! We met some girls there from the states that are here on study abroad and they eat here every week. It was soooooo weird to talk to people in English!!! whoa!!! and one of the owners of California Burrito lived in Grand Junction for 4 years. and she is awesome. Basically all of the missionaries from the north mission go eat there on pday. But we don't have that blessing a-thinkyou.

Now I see why one of my friends that served in my mission (the south) called the north mission the "pretty boy" mission. (sorry Scott).

Some of the things that I have seen outside of the city are completely different then within. Basically, if the city was the only part of Buenos Aires that I would see - I would think it was pretty cool and exciting. (in a tourist sense). But there are some realities that people don´t see. Well, that was a thought of mine.

Anyway. the food was DIVINE!!!!! And I wouldn´t mind it if we had to go again really soon. But I guess I have to check myself into a year of no mexican food or delicious chips and salsa again. oh the horror.

On our way back to San Vicente we stopped by the mission home and ate some delicious fruit with Hermana Asay. I love her.

But then we went back to work.
I really can´t believe that day even happened.

Anyway, things are good and hard at the same time. There is a lot of work to be done so we must go forth. I miss all of you so much. I just read some DearElders - I want to reply to everyone individually but time for that does not exist.

loves
hermanita urban

lucky alfajors and jack sparrows

Hello family!

Ok well our internet time has gone down from 1.5 hours to one hour solo. And so that made me sad but I have to be obedient so an hour it is.

Well I am sooo happy in San Vicente with hermana Olsen. We are just having a blast and working hard. We have so much hope and faith for this area to flourish! One day we went to visit an investigator who owns a kiosko (random stores that are a part of peoples houses). We have concluded that he is exactly like Jack Sparrow. He has this long bushy hair and scruffy face. But really his mannerisms are all flowy and jack Sparrow like. He always gives us an alfajor so after we left his Kiosko we stood in this random street and enjoyed our alfajor until we went to our next visit. Well this lady rode past us on her bike and then stopped in her tracks, almost tripping over her bike, asking if we could help her. She, K, Is a single mom with 8 kids and no work. And said of course we could help her! So we went to her little house and introduced ourselves to everyone and told them what we do: How we are missionaries and teach people about Christ and Serve people! K and her family has a lot of interest and we have a lot of high hopes for this family. That they will not only receive help but receive peace and joy in their lives. Because really that is what the gospel brings.

Well, in our little zone there is another set of hermanas. Hermana Olsen used to be comps with Hermana Duran (El Salvador) in our zone and then moved right next door to San Vicente. Well Hermana Durans new comp was actually what we call a mini. A member of the church in this area who is willing to serve a transfer or two. (there is always a need for missionaries) So anyway this girl was supposed to serve but . . . ended up not serving (que lastima). So Hermana Duran has been companionless. So she has been with us for a couple of days and we have just been having so much fun! She is this little ball of laughter and I love her!! It has been great because she is learning English and so we talk in both Spanish and English. I think that it would be great if she just stayed with us forever!!! We took a mattress from her apartment and shoved it under my bed. then when it is time for bed we have a mattress ready.

Well I love you all. Know that I miss you and LOVE letters.
Hermanita Urban

#1- Me with the sotelo Kids whilst building their house. I am in JEANS!!!!!!!!!!

#2- Hno Sotelo and his new ties!

#3- Kids and stickers from Art and Cindy! Love you guys!

#4- no caption (looks sweet tho) ;)

New Companion Again...make new relationships fast but lasting!

Yay another email from your little missionary!!! Well transfers are today and my new comapnion is Hermana Olsen from California. I am already in love with her! So far I have had a different comp every transfer. Dont worry, I am not a hard comapanion or anything. It just happened to workout that way. But am very excited for this transfer and have high hopes for the work in San Vicente, which there is a lot.

Well, these past two Sundays Hna Guynn went to visit other areas before leaving the mission. So I had to stay with an hermana in the ward. And who better then Virgina! I told you about her right?? She is absolutly amazing and faithful. She will go with us to appointments and walk miles, even though it is hard for her considering she has parkinsons. She makes me want to be a better missionary and women in the gospel.

Well anyway, last Sunday after church Virgina and I had lunch together. She cut up potatos and fried them. Then we went to her chicken coop and found some eggs and fried some eggs with canned peas. She is so cute! And then yesterday, we ate some delicious argentine dish. And afterwards I made her some hot chocolate as she read me old letters. I really am amazed by her and think so highly of her. My camera doesnt have sound, but if it did I would get a video of us singing or something because she LOVES to sing.

Oh by the way I found my card so I will send pics as soon as I can. But I don´t have it with me today.In San Vicente, I would like to say that we are cleaning it up a bit. In the sense that we are trying to find a lot more new people and help it progress. It has been hard to get people to come to church. But we will continue to go forth. The family that we randomly found (Alfonzo) are great and progressing. He is the one that found us when we were lost. Once they go to church it will just skyrocket. But it is true when I say that the gospel blesses peoples lives.

We Are also working to reactivate some families. It is hard, reactivation, mostly because people dont understand why it is so important to go to chruch. I dont think I would survive without my weekly dose of church. But we must DO the action to see the blessings. Well I love you all.

Chow

Hermana Urban

6-months! plus, package ideas: stickers, cereal, & pics

Family,

Hola ¿como estan mis amores? I hope all is well. Well this week actually went by pretty fast. We had interviews with the president on Thursday. I am so grateful for President and Hermana Asay. I can honestly say that I was called to serve in Argentina but a part of that call was for me to be under the direction of such an inspired man.

Well, this week is actually the last week of this transfer. It is going to be pretty busy because my comp is going home. So we have a lot of random things to do so she is ready. But I really can´t wait for this next transfer. I really want to leave San Vicente better then I found it. I am ready to work really hard. I think President has something up his sleeves b/c he is actually calling in a lot of girls that live here to serve mini missions. Who knows I might get a “mini.”

So Art and Cindy – I got your Package!!!!! Oh my goodness what the most pleasant surprise!! Thank you sooo much!! I know how insane the mail can be so I am so grateful. As well as the people here! I already have some really cute pics of some kids with stickers. Stickers are crazy popular here. You give kids stickers and the parents as well get all excited. I remember one time I gave this kid a sticker and the mom was so excited that she took it from him and put it on their refrigerator. Hahaha. There is this recent convert family and we are helping building their house. After a morning of helping them out with their house I gave the Dad some new ties (from the package!) He was sooooo excited. I also have a pic of this. And then later that day he accompanied us to some appointments and he was wearing one of his new ties. It was soooooo cute!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! En serio. But thank you so much really for the package. I love cereal from the other side of the globe. Delicious.

SO I keep saying that I have pictures of certain things – which I do – but I don’t at the same time. So when we were helping them build their house the little kids got into my bag and found my camera. Yup. Well, at first I thought that they just accidentally deleted all of my precious mission pics. But just now when I was looking at my camera I noticed that my card is gone!!! AGHH!!! I think it must have fallen out! I remember they opened up the camera to try and change the batteries or something. The card probably fell into the cement and is now a part of their house. Haha! So this week I will ask it they found it. But I do not have high hopes mostly because a huge family with lots of kids that put whatever they want in their mouth. hahaha

Anyway, the greatest hour of my day (in a total selfish opinion) is my personal study. I love reading the scriptures. I am completely amazed at the prophets and what they suffered through. Right now I am in the middle of Alma in the Book of Mormon. I should finish the Book of Mormon pretty soon and then move on the Jesus the Christ by James E. Talmage, as well as The New Testament in the Bible. I am just so grateful for this time in my life to gain doctrinal knowledge; to completely have my studies on the gospel. Every day it increases my testimony and faith. I have no doubt that the schedule of a missionary is inspired. The first thing we do after getting ready for the day is read the scriptures and have an added measure of faith for the day.

The song that you sang in Sacrament meeting sounded like it went really well. We will have to do a special number when I return!! I am so glad Grandma and Grandpa were able to enjoy it.
OH man it just started to POUR!!! Good thing I am wearing my boots!

Kendra – YOUR BIRTHDAY IS THIS WEEK!!!!!!! I love you sooo much. What are you going to do for it?? I loved the story of Ken and Amy´s boys at the swimming pool. Basically your letters are great. Also I got the cd´s and pictures last Tuesday. Yippeee!!!! Seriously soooo fun. I think pics in packages can be a stable item! Because I love them soo much!

Hey guess what!? I hit my 6th month mark this week. Check me out! That is a 3rd way.

Well, pretty much I am in love with the Gospel. I love the prophet and the scriptures. I am so grateful for faithful members in the church.

Loves and Hugs
Hermanita Urban

Why are we here? Hermana testifies...

This is Elissa's Dad and I just wanted to write a little note before you read Hermana Urban's letter. Baptism is such a sacred and wonderful ordinance. We as Christians understand through our gospel that it is a very wonderful and a special commitment to be baptized. You see we take Christ's teachings literally by following his example as Christ was baptized himself by John the Baptist. Having said that we leave it the option of the individual at the age of accountability to decide if they want to be baptized or not. We don't perform infant baptisms and believe that they are not held accountable until the age of accountability. Baptism to us is the beginning of our complete commitment to follow Christ for the rest of our life on this earth and after death. Hermana Urban is so committed to her work for the Lord that she is just seeing little but big miracles everyday. I just wanted you to understand that baptism is our beginning of our membership in his kingdom. We promise to endure to the end and follow Him forever and ever! After we make this promise through this example Christ set we then must continue to find others to do the same. We truly want all of our friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers to catch the vision of this great work and to prepare to meet God. It truly is the biggest reason for our existence as Elissa testifies. Don't be shy to ask us more and we will not be shy to ask you!

Here is her letter this week...

There are little miracles in our work. Even if i am not entirely aware. The other night we were lost in the dark and kind of wondering around. Out of now where this guys starts walking up to us!! AGH!! We got scared. But then he said that he was a member of the church and wanted us to come by and talk to his family. So we went and turns out that he was baptized 15 years ago but never confirmed. So he is going to get baptized again and his daughter (8) wants to get baptized and is amazing!! And his wife is still in the means of investigating the church. But she listens intently to every lesson and is so nice. They have two more kids that are 6 and 4. Wow all of that because we were lost. But they are an amazing family and I am so excited to work with them more. Last night we watched the Restoration movie with them and brought a long a member. So now they have a friend.Speaking of members helping with missionary work. I am completely in love with the ward to be doing a 90-day fast. That is true faith put into action! Now the members are going to be more aware throughout the day and look for ways to share the gospel. The entire reason why human beings are on the earth is to prepare ourselves to live with God again. Should we not help others prepare themselves?? It is hard to do. But we should go forth in such a cause?

amazing new members

The fam,

Things are going well in the life of San Vicente. We actually had a baptism yesterday of a 13 year old girl, Mara. She is the older sister of the little girl we baptized the week earlier. Mara had no records saying that she was baptized before and was never confirmed so after much investigation it was best that she got baptized again. But she really is an amazing girl. Her prayers are always so poetic and beautiful. A couple of weeks ago in her prayer she said something on the lines of: “thank you for the new missionary, i forgot her name, but the cute blonde one, for her kindness” and then just the other day she said “thank you for the chapel and it´s beauty, for every time I walk in it brings a smile to my face.” I love her prayers because she will say what she is thankful for and then go on to explain why. Well, I gave the talk on the gift of the Holy Ghost and then the welcome to the Young womens, I actually got pretty emotional. So I had to hold in the tears. But I really can see her potential as a Daughter of God. I really wanted to say all that I could within the barrier of the time limit and the broken Spanish. But I think that the spirit speaks to us in ways stronger then words. Actually I know that is true. Well, afterwards she ran up and gave me a huge hug!

There is a family that was baptized in October. The mom and Dad and then 8 kids. Pretty much the cutest kids I have ever met in my entire being. It is so hard not to give them the biggest hugs! As missionaries we actually can´t hold babies so it is really hard. Monica, the mom, gave me the BIGGEST hug my first week in San Vicente. I could feel the love that she has for the missionaries. I am always going to remember that hug. (I am so cheesy). The Sotelo family is defiantly a family in need. With 8 kids and a small house and no real job they have their share of struggles. Hna Gyunn and I decided to teach them about fasting. After the lesson we asked them what they could prepare themselves to fast for. And then automatically Monica starts to talk about another family; and how this other family is in a time of need. I just thought it interesting to me that her thoughts went to others. A family that could ask for a million of blessings place their thoughts on what others need. I know that I could learn so much from her example. I am really excited because this week we are going to go and help them build their house. Yay for service!!!!

Well my loves to you.
Hermanita Urban

Mara on her baptism yesterday:

And the man from the stake that is a spitting image of the old man that plays chess against himself for his teeth (so cute!):

more love from our hermanita

Hola my family that I adore!!!

Well how is everyone? I hope well! I pray for you daily. Well we had a baptism yesterday of a little girl. She is 9 and really great. It was a little insane trying to fill up the font in time. We actually had to run (literally run) home to get pots to boil some water. We were worried it was going to be too cold. So we boiled some water and added it to the font. I know that it made no difference because when she walked into the font she gasped from how cold it was. I felt soooo bad! But she was such a great sport. Yay! We had a handle of people from the stake at the branch yesterday and actually they helped a lot last minute with the baptism. One man, I promise, was the cartoon-man from that short film of the guy playing chess. Oh man I loved him! I promise he was a spitting image of the old chess playing man. He didn´t have any teeth, but he was just soo cute.

There is a lady in the branch who is just a little light. She has a huge testimony and loves the work of the Lord. I am amazed by her because she is the one that actually will go out with us to appointments. Whereas with some of the other members it is like pulling teeth. But the thing that amazes me about Virginia (her name) is that she has Parkinson’s and cannot walk well. But she is always willing to come out with us. I always just hope for the best for her. I hope that she is happy and content. I know that she will have a great blessings from God.

Well other then that we are just working. It has been a bit of a challenge to really find some people to teach. But I know that we need to find more people and get more people interested. I love the gospel. I know that it is true and that I way we must share it and invite others to learn more.

Love,
Hermanita urban

San Vicente

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Vicente,_Buenos_Aires

Hola mis amores,

Well, today was the start of a new transfer. Or otherwise the start of another 6 weeks. I am awful with goodbyes. I have always avoided saying goodbye to people that I love. I never think that people should say goodbye. Maybe that is something I have to learn as a missionary because you say goodbye a lot. Yesterday I had to say goodbye to El Dorado. So I wont be seeing the baptism of T or D, but hey it is their baptism not mine and I am so excited for them!!! Whoo-hoo!!

Well with goodbyes come hellos, right?? And so today I moved to San Vicente!!! Whoo-hoo I will learn more about it and tell you all about it – I am sure. It is a branch. It is nicer. I live pretty close to a park which is really cute. I have a new companion!!!! Hermana Guynn from Connecticut!!!!!!! I am already in love with her! She is great and I know that we are going to work hard and have a good time doing it! Unfortunately, this is her last transfer. So I will be seeing her off. How sad!

Well a little D story:

On Saturday we went to teach T and Demetrio. D still hasn´t prayed to know if the Book of Mormon was actually the word of God. So we stressed the importance of doing that. We decided to kneel down right then and there and pray. First, we knelt in silence; I guess he decided to pray in his mind. After what felt like forever – me and Hna Tyhurst started to look at each other wondering when he was going to look up! Finally he said that he could´t feel or recognize anything. We asked him to pray out loud and told him that it isn´t the first time that someone hasn´t be able to distinguish something. So he prayed again, this time out loud, and then we waited again. After a while he said that he felt lifted, like something had been lifted. An answer!!! It took a while – as things will at times. But now D isn´t just going to go off on what we are telling him is true, now he can go to God. Our faith should be based on the answers we receive from above. Once we receive those feelings of the spirit then we know that it is true. We don’t have to question anymore.

Well, I am really excited for this transfer and I am excited to be in San Vicente with Hermana Guynn. She is awesome.

I made a cheesecake – delicious!!! It was also the first 4th where I walked in the cold with jeans tucked into my boots and a long skirt and a heavy coat. Oh the mission life. I have pics (of the cheesecake – not the walking) but those will have to wait for a while – no time.

I love you all and miss you like the crazies.

Hermanita Urban

July 1st E-mail

*Elissa just hit her quarter-of-the-way-through mark! Remember to keep writing! :)

This week was good and successful. We worked really hard. Well, so last week I talked about Tanya and how I love her. Her brother Pablo is amazing! He accepts every little aspect of the gospel and he will re account everything that he read in the Book of Mormon to us, he is great. Well she was there so we ending up just teaching her a little bit and giving her a Book of Mormon. In the middle of this week we called Tanya to set up an appointment and she told us that we have to be sure to come on Saturday because it was going to be the last time Pablo would be there. He was going to Peru or something. We hung up the phone and just started to cry!! We love Pablo! He is the best Pablo in all the world! And he is going to be baptized and out of no where he is moving to Peru??? So I made them some delicious American chocolate chip cookies (Argentine style) and we went to our appointment. Well we actually taught about the Law of chastity and him and Miligros were both very accepting. But this is faith to me. Faith always leads to some sort of action or sacrifice. At times we don´t even know why we have to do certain things, but our faith leads us to do the things we know are correct. Well turns out Pablo will be coming back in about a month. So if I stay this next transfer (which starts Monday) then I will see him again. But just in case we took pics. And it is so funny because we took pics and nobody ever smiles in pictures here. So the first one they all looked horrible and I made them smile and took another. But they were all embarrassed to smile...

my peeps. Miliagros is in the grey, Pablo in blue, tanya in brown and demetrio in the black

me and my comp Hna tyhurst:

me and my district today. we are really cool.

June 23rd e-mail, with pics

This week was a bit unusual. There was a crazy protest or something in the city and the leaders of the mission decided that none of the missionaries could leave their apartment on Wednesday. So on Wednesday me and my comp just sat, eat, read, sang, And I wrote letters!! Woot! I rarely get time for that. And so I apologize if I don’t respond to some of the things that ya´ll write to me about. It is just that I rarely have time. But on Wednesday I did, so that was cool.

Also I have never been sooo grateful for BOOTS!!!!!! It rained all of the rest of the week. And everything turned into crazy mud. I actually would love it if it was warm and we played Futbol in it or something! Haha. But we walked in it and my boots are no longer black but brown but they rock. I felt really bad for my comp because she no longer has boots and her shoes broke. It was sad stuff. So I would walk in front of her and try to find the best ways to go.

T, I think I have talked about her before for ya´ll. Well, She (along with her bro and uncle) has a baptismal date in 2 Saturdays. She really wants to learn Spanish and so on Friday we went to teach her some. She has a lot of drive. And really wants to learn. Well we were with her the entire morning, but only talked about English for about 30 minutes. For the rest of the time she completely opened up to us about her life. Let me tell you she has had a tough one. She cannot really rely on her family and she has been on roller coaster rides in relationships. It is all just really sad. After about an hour of her talking to us about her concerns, she said something on the lines of “I just don´t know what to do?” and looked at us for the answer. We of course turned to the scriptures. I cant remember the reference now but there is a scripture of how we shouldn´t worry about what we are going to eat, or what we will wear; Because God knows us and he knows what we need. If we put him first we will have the things that we need. After we read that together and talked a bit about how God loves her (Because He does!). She seemed so much calmer. We then asked her how she felt. And she said that she felt more tranquil and calm. There was a great difference in the feelings between before and after we turned to the scriptures for a little guidance. One verse. One verse is really all needed to help us realize how great God is.
I am completely amazed by T. Dad, I took your advice of telling people that I love them. And actually the week before this all happened - I knew that there was something bothering her (we had a lesson with her, her bro and uncle, and her little daughter was running around all crazy) well afterwards, I went over to her to tell her that I loved her and if there was anything that she needed she can talk to us.

I really believe that there is no coincidence that T randomly shows up at church after we handed her a pamphlet. And now she has received an answer that the Book of Mormon is true. That she moved from Peru and that missionaries are sent by God to tell certain people about these truths. This was supposed to happen. I love her.

Well, family I am about out of time.
I love you all so much. Hope Kendra’s room turns out sweet! What color???
Bethany I am glad that you and Casey have reunited. You are so cute.
Tell dad to tear up those mountains!!
Mommy you are the bestest!
Janelle you rock!
Seriously.

I am grateful for all of you in my life. And I am grateful for your support and love and emails. Just remember that I am still in the beginning of this whole mission thing. (I have to remember that myself) So keep up the good work of letter writing and prayers.

Hermana Urban

pictures:

the pride and prej one:

This is me going to write ya´ll today! Sitting in an internet dealie:

the goat eating out of trash. not an unusual thing to see in El Dorado:

June 16th E-mail from Elissa!

This week was a good one. A tiring but a good one. We do everything that we can to teach as many people as possible, it is disappointing when we walk almost half the day for someone and they aren´t there. But that is the life of a missionary. Almost everyday we had that sort of experience but it is ok we still taught a ton.
M and N are still cute. N talked with his boss about work on Sunday and his boss said that he has to work "si o si." SO basically we are keeping our eyes out for a sweet job for him. and praying.

This little kid/guy named C is awesome. He is 19 and all of his family lives in Peru. He is here working. Actually me and hna G found him. He fell in love with her. texted us all night and day. We had to not talk to him for awhile. It was hilarious for me. Well hna T and I have started to teach him again and he is de diez! (of ten! - an argentine phrase). He also works on Sundays. But yesterday just as everything ended he walked in! Yay for him. He really is great, it is sad though because he just misses his family. In a prayer that he gave he asked for a blessing on his family and all. It just broke my heart. But hey with the gospel they can be together forever!

Well so everyday we would get home and just have total exhaustion. But today I am sleepy still bc I didn´t sleep all that much. This is why:
a couple nights ago Hna D called me and said that she talked to Hna Asay (mish pres wife, whom I LOVE!!) and how we should do an hermanas day or something and watch a movie. Hna Asay said yes!!! yay! well then hermana D asks me what movie I thought it was and right away I said: "dont even tell me that it is Pride and Prejudice" (b/c Hna D and I both are in crazy love with jane austen - you all know the obsession). So anyway today is the day. and last night I felt like a kid on Christmas eve because I was so excited! Whoo-hoo! Can you believe it? I think that it is a great way to end a tiring week and start a new crazy week.

There are 3 weeks left in this transfer and we are working with about 7 people to get baptized within the time frame. SO we have a lot to do. It is just the beginning.

Ok so I recieved dearelders last week and it was sooo great!

well family I just love you. And am jealous you are all living together. It hasn´t been like that since 2002 so I feel a bit left out. But it is all good. The mission is great. A lot of work but I am having good experiences and the gospel means so much to me. It is true. We are here for a purpose. And this life is happier with the knowledge and peace the gospel gives.