Questions to never ask...

Many people have asked me to continue to write my thoughts, so for those few who enjoy reading the mixed up, random, scattered thoughts of my brain this is for you. Now don't torture yourself by following or even reading if you don't want to, I promise I won't be offended. But for all of those who want to climb in and sit beside me on this roller coaster of your life - it's my pleasure. 

Now everyone is familiar with that awkward silence that follows the first initial welcome home hug to any returned missionary. There is no shame, we feel the awkwardness of it as well. Yes, we can feel the overwhelming excitement that transmitted through your hug but once we have both pulled away...then what? If you are waiting for us to start the conversation you had better be prepared to answer with what you read in your daily personal study or if you have kept all your commitments. So instead, we wait. We wait for you to start the conversation. Somehow it naturally always seems to start with a few questions. Let's chat about these questions...

1) "Are you excited to be home?" 

     So, so tough to answer. Yes, usually we are excited to hug our beloved families, run our toes through carpet, and stroll through Walmart once again but truthfully, no we are not. Please do not take this personally, it is not against you. Many of you have spent the recent amount of time anxiously awaiting our return whereas we were painfully aware of the day in which we would remove the tag that has become who we are and end the beloved dimension that has become our reality. 

2) "How was your mission?" 

      Really? Do you really expect us to put our entire mission into a quick, short reply. The only way to adequately respond to this is "It was a mission." If you served a mission than only you will truly be able to understand the moments of devastating heartbreak, overwhelming joy, and personal growth. If you did not serve a mission than we will try to suffice your curiosity with "it was amazing." 

3) "So are you normal again?" 

      What is normal? We felt normal in the life we just so maybe you are the one that is not normal! No okay, it is a fair question. We left home and we were "normal" to you at that time. That is who we had been for the past 18, 19, 20, or 21 years. Then we served missions and we improved ourselves. We smooth our edges. The put our lives into the hands of the Lord and He shaped us to the creations that we were designed to be. So are we normal? No, and we never will be again. How can we be "normal" again after we are improved and bettered? Normal is digression. This is the new normal! 

Of course, each of us returned missionaries served completely different missions and will therefore respond to each question differently. I respond just for myself! 

Happy reading! 

Christine Marie 

The Homecoming!

I will be giving my homecoming address if you would like to come hear a few stories of my mission. 

         The Valley View Stake Center

          Sunday, October 19th at 11:00 am

           2245 East 3900 South 
           Salt Lake City, Utah 

Don't laugh when I don't remember the word in English....cya there! 

Eccomi! It's me again!

Ciao belli! First and foremost, huge shout out for Elizabeth (Liz for anyone without the last name of Alley) for being THE BEST editor and poster of these blogs posts. I am pretty sure if she was not around the world would stop spinning. Thanks Bubbus!

Now onto the best thing that has ever happened to me - the last 18 months. As you have followed along, we have journeyed together from Rimini to Lodi, skipping over to Verona and then for the final stop of Pisa. All ya'll know about that so let us get down to the dirty details of the last moments as a full-time missionary.

The Final days...
   Wednesday, 17th of September, I zipped my LARGE suitcases shut and dragged them to the bus stop. Forty minutes later, with still no train, a man walked by and told us that the buses were on strike. Joy! I actually appreciated this as it truly made the Italian experience, well, Italian. We did make our train on time and as we pulled out of Pisa Centrale, I looked back with peace of mind but a hurting heart. However, there is always a blessing hiding behind a stormy cloud and my blessing was Sorella Ashley Quinton - loving known as Quintard, my 2nd "child". We were left together as companions in Florence as our two companions traveled up to Milano that night. We were given the orders, "Have fun!" so that we did....
  Thursday, 18th of September, we got a head start on the day and were on a train headed to Milano by 8. Once arriving in Milano, it was a huge highlight to see many missionaries coming and going as everyone who transfers filters through Milano. Mostly, it was magical seeing past companions and having my two trainees with me for the last moments of my mission. At noon, all departing missionaries were headed out to the mission office for departing interviews, a fancy dinner, and a final testimony meeting. It truly is a wonderful experience witness the growth of each missionary. As each missionary bore his or her testimony I was simply blown away by the depth and certainty of their testimonies. The mission is losing some kick trash missionaries. We sang the mission song for the last time and there was not a dry eye in the crowd. We spent the night at a hotel but Sorella Roth, Sorella Condie and I could not sleep so we chatted the night away. Mission stories are the best.
   Friday, 19th of September, my parents and sister Liz, flew into Milano at 8. But as everyone knows, traveling is never smooth so they did not make it to the mission home until 11:30 am. As the LAST missionary waiting my eyes were glued on the road and when I saw a minivan crawling and stopping every foot I knew my parents were within hugging distance and I was chasing down that car faster than an asian on rice. The door opened and I saw my sweet mother's face. The next 5 minutes are a total blur but I believe there were lots of tears, hugs, and laughter. Sweet reunion.

I shall not bore you over all the details of the daily travel but instead a few highlights
1) reseeing and revisiting the people and the land that CHANGED my life completely. Being able to share that with my family was incredible. In many ways, these people became my family and I could not have asked for a greater blessing than to be a very minor part of their lives. They are everything to me.
2) I got shotgun seat the entire trip (that has never happened in my entire life)
3) little moments of missionary work. I had set the goal to give out 10 resto pamphlets in Italian and 5 in English, one Libro di Mormon and one Book of Mormon. My favorite moment happened in Rome. We had just entered Vatican City and were waiting for an exclusive tour and had to pass through some security. The security guard noticed my tag and asked me if I am catholic. It led right into the Restoration and I was able to place the man with his own copy of the very Book that changed life. I have high hopes for that man, all it takes is one well placed seed...
4) In Cinque Terre we had our own balcony and I managed to drag my mattress out and slept out each night we were there. There were millions of stars and I spent many hours contemplating my entire mission. Even though I have often felt so small and insignificant to the growth and development of the church in Italy, I know the Lord is appreciative of my service. I may not be much but I am a part of something bigger.
5) realizing the Lord has already begun to bless me for my service. Through a series of certain events, Italy will always be close to my heart but through a series of blessings, Italy may be so much more than just 18 months of service. There is still something for me in Italy. I am determined to discover what it may be.

The 14 days that I spent with my family traveling were incredible, never dull, gelato filled (literally my mom ate 5 in one day), and very special. The transition from being a missionary to returning home is challenging but I am very fortunate to have been able to "readjust" at "home" in Italy. I had moments of being completely overwhelmed but these 14 days will always be special to me. Getting on that plane and watching Italy shrink behind me was one of the hardest things I have ever had to do. I left my heart in Italy in many ways. Sorella Alley left her heart as a missionary and Christine left her heart without realizing that she had given it away. The silver lining was I had written myself a letter on the plane to Italy and had saved it for the plane home. I was anxious to see what type missionary I wanted to be 18 months earlier and anxious to see if I lived up to my own standards/ In a moment of sweet, tender mercy I again felt the approving presence of the Spirit. I served honorable, loved whole heartily and became a disciple of Jesus Christ.

I was released from being a full-time missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on October 4th, 2014. Being considered worthy to care my Savior's name for a full 18 months was the greatest privilege that I have had in my life. Standing as His witness changed my life, my heart and my future. I may no longer be set apart but I will forever be a disciple.

The last time... a strange feeling

Wow. This is a strange feeling. Like that moment right before you wake up but you are still all sleepyheaded. I cannot believe this is my last email as a full-time missionary. You know, from the beginning you think about this moment coming and then the closer it comes, you beg for the time to slow down. I have learned many lessons in these few days - live in the moment because it always ends ;(

Quick run down of the week - saying goodbye to people was pretty brutal, more so than usual because it also felt like I was saying goodbye to Italy, to the only thing I have known for the past 18 months. I held it together until Sunday, specifically sacrament meeting. Then I think I must have gotten dust in my eyes or something because boy were they watering......sharing my testimony in italian for the last time as a missionary was a very special moment. I dont remember what i said or if it was even understandable but I felt peace and so much love toward all the members. Then monday morning, we got a call....our travel plans had been changed and we were to be in milano wednesday evening....so i had to actually face the fact and pull out the luggage. The  last few days have been extruciatingly diffcult. I had the pleasure yesterday of extending the baptisimal invite for the last time in my last lesson. It was the perfect conclusion to my mission but also a very bitter sweet moment. To sum it up, I can say Dying is hard. I literally feel like Italy is who I am now and Sorella Alley is who I am now. I know in time, I will figure it all out but to realize the 18months of consecrated service had come to a finish was a hard fact to face. But on a happier note, today was the perfect way to sum my entire experience thus far. We waited for 40minutes for a bus, that never came because of a strike so we chubby ran all the 30 minutes to the station with 3 pieces of luggage. I couldnt stop giggling because that is just Italy! 

So now, it has arrived. I will be in MIlano soon with the corpses (is that a word?) of other dead missionaries. All i can say is I WILL NEVER FORGET this experience. I can never forgot  the first day of my mission and thinking, "how am I ever going to survive this experience?". A few weeks later I remember thinking, "the next bus i see I am accidently going to put myself in front of it to get an honorable release...." to now thinking, "Io sono Italiana." The best of this entire experience is the end product of myself. My strengths became stronger and my weaknesses became strengths. I found my testimony, it deepened and now it is unshakeable. I will never be able to deny the feelings that I have experienced as a missionary nor the truthfulness of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. Come what may, because I will never turn my back on what I KNOW to be true. I c ould not be more gateful for the mission Ihave served and the part of Italy that will always be with me. I am the most blessed person on the earth! 

Now, the countdown begins! I am allowing myself to now focus on the fact that I will see a few of my beloved in just a day! Those will be welcome happy tears. Thank you all for your support and encouragement. 

Vi amo! For the last time, 

Sorella Alley 

My last week!

Family family family, 

   hello again! What to say....dying is very strange. It is a roller coaster of emotions but I have had many wonderful  moments this week that I know are tender mercies from the Lord. While studying the other morning, I had a very strong impression the Lord was pleased with my work. I think it might be just a little of what the final judgement will be. As i mentally started from day 1 of my mission and worked to the present moment I examined myself and my desire. The Lord was not there with a clipboard or a list of mistakes that I have made as a missionary or the tiny moments of disobedience. Instead, I felt like He was showing me WHO I was, from the heart outward. I realized I have changed - I am not perfect. I still laugh at naughty jokes, I still drop it low when my companion is not looking and I still hate making my bed. But, I am a better version of me. I am a converted version of me. It this tender moment I felt the loving arms of the Savior rap around me and the welcomed, peaceful thoughts of "yes, I am pleased." Missions are the best. 

Game time

Famiglia mia! Cari miei.

Let's get down to business, shall we? Let us begin with the baptism of my girl Doris! Doris's sister Happiness (yes, legit nigerian name) gave birth so Doris left to Pistoia to tend to her auntly duties. But it worked out perfectly because the sister in Pistoia were able to finish teaching her and preparing her for her baptism on Saturday. And who may you ask are the sister's in Pistoia? Sorella Reni and Quinton! So yes, my little baby was able to prepare Doris for her baptism. So my heart was calm knowing Doris was in good hands. Friday we headed up to MIlano for consiglio della missione and it was weird to be there for the last time. I was doing fine and did not even notice until I shook hands with Anziano Pagano and realized it would be the last time I would see him for AT LEAST 6 months. I just started crying. It's fine. Out of no where it just hit that I HAVE to say goodbye to other missionaries as well as investigators and members. He shed a few tears himself and we parted our ways. Oh my little Pagano. Back to the baptism. Saturday morning rolled around and we started running around firemen in a burning building. Why? MIssionaries are very good at working in organized chiaos. Satan was working really hard to make sure that the baptism didnt happen but we side stepped him all day long and Doris was baptized! Literally it went PERFECT. Doris chose Andrew to baptize her and it's obvious that he was a baptizing missionary (Andrew, you are probably reading this so don't let your head get any bigger....) but he dunked her, literally did a body sweep to make sure it was complete immerse and then even looked at the witnesses. So Doris was baptized and was absolutely glowing! The next morning, she was confirmed and given the Holy Ghost. She is a huge miracle for me because I have been here and taught her for the entire experience. Sunday night the GANS through her a party and the love for her is overwhelming. She fits in perfectly and is the best thing to happen to our little ward. Welcome to the fold Doris, now "wiggle it". 

A week of Consecration

Famiglia Mia! Oh blessed family. How I have longed to be with you this week! This last week was a week dedicated to consecration and we had some very lofty goals. We worked on eliminating the task of the day that are "still good for missiionary work" and focused instead on the tasks that are "the best for missionary work". It was one of the best weeks ever for numbers and for miracles but it was also one of the hardest weeks of my mission.

It got me wondering about why it seems that trials or poopy times always seem to accompany miracles. And while I still don't have my complete answer, I am sure that trials are handpicked for us by the almighty maker. I have often thought that it is not fair that the "really righteous" seem to have the most trials while joe smow who doesnt keep any commandments skips through life whistling. This week made me realize that maybe, trials are given to the righteous, to the already stronger to just make us stronger. To make us more like our Heavenly Father- In one talk i read this week, it mentions that we "arent earning Heaven, we are learning Heaven." I have learned a little bit more about Heaven this week. 

My bike got stolen. Dang. Haha it wasn't even the better bike out of the two but still, someone is riding around on my Lady Mara and it wiped out my bank account. But thanks to the ever trusty Sorella Sarti, I have a new bike. It has been lovingly named, Midge. Why? Because I am pretty sure it is built for a 12 year old. Haha for 60 euro I thought to myself, "i have it for 3 weeks, it doesnt matter to me if my legs are above the handlebars..." So Midge, short for Midget and I are new best friends. 

August 20, 2014

Ciao cari miei! This week has beeeeen incredible! This has been a special week that President Dibb has asked us to dedicate to being more consecrated. I still am not sure what that means because it seems silly to me that for one week we all stop being a little less lazy for just 7 days. Why don't we make it 18 or 24months of consecration? But, consecrate ourselves we did and pop open your umbrellas because it's about to be raining miracles!

We had a wonderful day with the Marino and Sereni families for Ferriagosto. Sorella Sereni brought her neighbors so we were able to fellowship a couple and enjoy a wonderful afternoon together. It was great to be invited and I love both of these families. Fratello Marino is exactly like Dad and I just giggle at him all the time becaue he even grumples the same even though behind th grumppy mug he is all love and smiles. We didnt have to spend the entire day street contacting so it was a miracle.

Saturday, everything that could have gone wrong, went wrong. But at the end of the day, 2 buses missed and 2 trains missed, we arrived in Pisa and I almost kissed the nasty station ground. But from across the platform I spot a girl, who spots me who sees my tag and instantly her entire countenance changes! MEet Tais, 23 from Brazil! She had been in italy for only 3 days and has come here to study. She was feeeling very homesick and lonely (been there, felt that girl) and when she saw us she burst into tears. In broken english she told us she had been praying to meet us because she knew if she could find the church in Pisa, she would be okay. It was a huge testimony that Heavenly Father was tweaking my plans to answer the prayers of one of His children.. Quanto Dio ci ama!!!!!! 

A really funny story....

La vita è veramente bella. Sapete perché? Vi lo dico. Vi sto scrivendo dalla Arezzo, la terra famosa per il film La Vita è Bella.

I am writing you from Arezzo this week - the exact place that the famous film "Life is Beautiful"  was filmed. Can I tell you how much I love this land. I have seriously given my heart to this country. Alright let's jump into business. First, my mission mom is home now and it's a little weird that my group is now the oldest in the mission. Gulp. But it is also  been an wonderful week in the sense of working. We have not stopped running and most of the time, I am in a sure panic because there is not enough time for everything I want to do but I LOVE IT. Working hard is the only way to finish! 

So Sorella Bennett and I planned a "girl's night" for all our girl GANS. I have missed these nights with my own sisters and besties so we thought it would be a good way to bring us all closer together. We all met at Karen Perez's house and we did each other's hair, makeup, nails, ate and enjoyed being girls. Sorella Hoffman and I shared a message about being Woman of Christ and it could not have gone better. The Spirit was so strong and we testified of own our unique and vastly important role as woman. It was a wonderful night and our relationships and testimonies were deepened. 

We also had a ward FHE put on by yours truly. President Dibb once said, "i like to party" so I figured we might as well party in Pisa! So I filled up 100 water ballons and we played some water games as a family. Except no one told me Italians don't really like getting their close wet. Oops. Best moment of the day, I nailed an elder 3 times in a row with waterballons. Dead chest. Fratello Marino asked me why I could throw like that and I said, "My daddy taught me and I have 2 brothers." All the members were proud of me. Look Mom, I cant play the piano every week when asked but I can throw waterballoons. :) 

Scripture of the week Luke 19: 10"For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost." even Jesus had to do finding work! Not all the people found him or came to him. He hit the streets in search for the elect! Strada just got easier. 

Well, i am off! Vi amo tutti! Auguri a Richard and Tammy for 5 years of marriage! and to Bubbus for 28 years of life! 

Sorella Alley 

"Mission Leadership Council - July 4, 2014"

The start of Sorella Alley's LAST transfer!

Famiglia Mia! Non ci credo che è già trasferimento 12! No so dov'è andato il tempo ma c'è un pò ancora quindo devo lavorare piu forte! Devo dare il mio tutto al Signore. 

Trasnfer 12 is coming up like an unwated case of the winter sniffles. This transfer President Dibb changed the transfer policy and transfer calls were made sabato instead of lunedi so that we could say goodbye to members in church. So, sure enough we received a call from President Dibb during lunch. Sorella Bennett is headed to Mestre (includes Venice) and she couldn't be any happier. I am staying in Pisa (praise The Allmighty) and Sorella Hoffman will be coming to Pisa to work with me. Best news though is that Sorella Quinton is coming down to Pistoia so I will be her Sister Training Leader. FINAL SCAMBIO WITH THE BAMBINA! I prayed super hard for both my babies to come down to toscana for my final transfer but I know Burkster is working hard far away....

Please open up your scriptures with me to D/C 4. This is my battle cry - to give with all my heart. But There was a phrase in there I have never seen before. I donated my first body limb to this great cause. Yes, it was required that I give my left pinky toe nail. I have always been prideful of my feet - the toes all slant at a nice level and really I had quite beautiful feet. Now I am humbled. My heels are cracked and calused and I have only 9 toenails. But I painted a fake toe nail so all is well in Zion. 

Working hard in Siena

Ciao da Siena! This week I am writing to you from the beautiful city of Siena. I have lost my heart here in la toscana, there is no beauty that can compare to it. However, I still can't figure out why people choose to farm on the rollings hills.....but I did offer to help a man squish his grapes for wine so maybe when we provide that service, I will receive my answer. Vi faccio sapere.

It seems like I havent really been in Pisa this week as I have had done two scambios and only been in Pisa for Part of Friday, Saturday and Sunday but the few days were jammed backed and rocking. On saturday, Sorella Bennett and I decided we wanted to serve our GANS, so we planned a classic alley favorite, "Breakfast for Dinner". We made scrambled eggs, hashbrowns, and pancakes. It was a hit and my pancakes speak for themselves. We did a spiritual thought about the Motto della Libertà and acted out the title of liberty. I absolutely love all our GANS members and think the world of them. I also feel like they are the future of the church in Italy so that is where our focus should be! 

To celebrate the 24th of July, my companion thought I had forgotten but I am just sly, I made a fort and set up a "park the wagon in" movie. We watched Legacy in our "tent" and even rocked the bonnets. Sorella Bennett thinks I am nuts but she doesnt grasp that Alley's dont do anything slight or little. But in my personal studies I focused on the one thing that changed the lives of so many: The Book of Mormon. I literally cannot imagine the humility of the pioneers to accept the BoM and the Prophet Joseph Smith and then put everything up for sacrifice to follow into an unknown future. That is power, that is the power of the Spirit. Having ancestors from both sides been some of the originals who left EVERYTHING for the gospel I feel so grateful. So little. So much less than these spiritual giants. They are among the very elect and I hope that I am doing them proud in my little spot in Italy.

Patience and Diligence

Buon giorno carissimi miei! I feel like someone is playing a really mean trick on me and stealing days right out from under me. How in the crazy world is it Wednesday?! The beautiful think about working hard is that time FLIES past. The bad thing about working hard is the TIME FLIES past. You just cant ever win can you?

Working hard is what we are doing here in Pisa. Some of my favorite moments this week include Dad's Birthday. To celebrate, I did a scambio in Pisa with a verdina and we taught 5 lessons and literally ran from appointment to appointment. It feels so good to work hard and to be able to say at the end of the day, "Lord, I did you proud today!" 

"Dont have a poncho? That has never stopped an Alley.
Garbage bag and scarf. Mission accomplished."

"Apparently something about this says "please drive past me at a close distance so I can be even more wet".
Soaked to the bone."

Mercoledi

I literally cannot believe it is already mercoledi. It freaks me out how fast time is going and how much work that needs to be done. I am thinking about extending.....just kidding, that is not even given as a option anymore. But I just have to work harder and sacrifice lunch time :)

"What the heck, I saw Dad the other day,
busy holding up the tower. Happy Birthday Dad!"

First - Buon Compleanno al mio babbo! Happy Birthday Popsicle! Seriously, I dont know what I did premortalty to have merited a dad like you but it must have been HUGE. All 6 of us hoodlins (and side now, pretty sure our family is like going to explode during the milennium because there are a lot of souls who still need a family and pretty sure ours is the best so we can expet the Lord to send them to us....) really did luck out. Thanks for teaching us, making us laugh, and doing all our projects that we all know we procrastinated till the last second so you would just do them....oh wait, that was just me? ....but still thanks! The 17th of July will be dedicated in your honor and the 21st will be dedicated to another stallion of a man - Grandpa Alley! I have the best in the world! 

Andiamo avanti - First, I have to say the best part of Pisa is the Gans. Gans in the YSA in Italy. We have a wonderful group of Gans and I seriously learn so much from them. Mostly, it is not easy being a member in Italy but these homies are so strong and wonderful examples to me. We had an activity with them just last night and I best a large part of the evening thinking and reevaluating myself because they make me want to be better. I am so grateful for the Gans of Pisa! 

"Gans! Martina and Serena!"

This week we had a lesson about the temple with a less active who wants to get to the temple and do her own work. The lesson was powerful (hopefully for her) but mostly for me because I realized how much I truly miss the temple and the temple blessings in my life. Yes, I still receive the blessings from the

'Murica!

"D Will is even famous in Italy...."

My country tis of thee, sweet land of liberty- of thee I write! Tanti auguri to the Red, White and Blue. Ti saluto! So this 4th of July was spent in travel to Milano for consiglio della missione. They did give us an American filled lunch with hot dogs, baked beans (there was no bacon or pineapple so not nearly as good as ol' Pierre's, and marshmellow pistacchio salad). We welcomed back President Dibb and got right down to business. At the end, President looks me and my companion dead in the eyes and says, "We need to speak." I naturally looked at Sister Bennett and said, "oh no, what have I done now?!". Turns out, it was just interviews again and it went very well. He complimented me on my work and said he is proud of the missionary I have become. :) Success.

"My American 4th of July lunch - Burger King.

I understand why America has an obesity epidemic."

But, I couldnt let the Fourth of July slip past without doing something American but we were limited to the Milano Centrale train station, so we ate Burger King. Nothing says Murica like Fast Food. Then the 4th was over and I will have to wait till next year for fireworks. Tear. 

Because of my faith...

Ciao tutti!

Where to begin....well, let's just say that there have been far better weeks of my mission than this last. Since I have somehow become the grandma in the mission (how did that happen, I am still green!) I have noticed that just in the year of time I have been here, the work has gotten harder. Perhaps it is this area of Italy but it seems that as the Lord hastens His work, poopface satan hastens his dirty hands. But, nothing stops the Army of Israel so slap that sunscreen on satan cause you are gonna be feeling the heat! 

I was very inspired after reading my counterpart, my partner in crime, my fellow soldier in the faith, and the cabuss of the family's letter last week about faith. So in honor of Hermana Becca Boo 

1) because of my faith, I have seen mafiosi, forgotten old women, bitter divorcees, and rebellious youth changed by accepting the light.

2) because of my faith, I have done things that at the moment I thought, "this is going to kill me!"

3) because of my faith, I have accepted every call to serve in whatever way the Lord asks

4) because of my faith, I open my mouth and speak knowing the Creator of the World will not let me fail

5) because of my faith, I have learned, lived and loved the Atonement. 

6) because of my faith, I can still smile an be happy even when people spit at my face and beer is thrown at me. 

7) because of my faith, I have ridden my bike in torrents of rain, hike hills in blistering heat, and fallen on slippery ice but weather doesn't stop a worthy servant with the good word on her lips!

8) because of my faith, I have learned that life is better when I willingly yield to the will of my God.

9) because of my faith, I have learned to follow the subtle promptings of the spirit, counsel of priesthood blessings, and the words of both ancient and modern prophets. 

10) because of my faith, I know death will never separate my family. 

11) because of my faith, I have learned to kneel in humble supplication even when I feel forgotten, angry, pushed aside, or lazy.

12) because of my faith, though I am no where near His perfection, I improve every day and my life is in His hands.

That was all the wisdom of the past 15 months. I am tired. Working hard to the end! 

Vi amo tutti quanti! 

sorella alley 

A new transfer - Just two left!

Mamma mia, un altro transferimento  è gia venuto e andato! Non ci credo! Ora ho soltanto 12 settimane e due transferimenti.....devo lavorare di più!

I literally cannot believe how fast this transfer went. For this next transfer Sorella Bennett and I will be staying the same! Onward and Upward! 

This week, two milestones in my mission. I gave a talk in italiano, without using notes and I was not even nervous. A year ago and I probably would have hid in the nearby forest for the duration of the meeting. Second, I sang in italian in sacrament and I was really nervous for that but it went great! I through together a group of 3 sisters and we sang Come Thou Fount. To me it sounded great so........it was probably awful but we tried hard and it seemed to be well liked. Milestones!

However, my country is crying today, weeping over the bitter excommunication of our beloved calcio team from the world cup. For a country that eats, breathes and sleeps soccer - it was a devestating loss. Naturally, Sorella Bennett and I stopped for some gelato that just so HAPPENED to be very close to a giant screen that just so HAPPENED to be playing the game. I apologize to all the italians for the faithlessness of my companion, our beloved squadra lost because she left her faith in America. My faith in the chosen team was not enough to sustain and today, Italy weeps. Have faith people, and Dad don't yell too loud at the screen. They can't hear you. 

Pisa or Verona?

HEEEELLLLLLLLOOOOOO from Verona-Pisa! Yes, you read that right- I wrote email to you all this morning from Verona because I had to go pick up my promesso di sogiorno! So I was able to visit last night and this morning and now I am writing you from Pisa! I love traveling! But now I am back to work!

Okay this week - let's jump in! This week, an in honor of little Hermana Alley's big 1 year anniversary, I taught a lesson in spanish. arrrrribbbba taco taco! We are teaching a wonderful part member couple from Equador and they speak in thiiiick spantalian so we just thought, "who needs italian, let's do it in spanish!"....what a weird and confused language. I was so proud of myself though and I think I had the spirit of Boo with me. But italian is so much prettier and pleasing for the ears. 

CONGRATS ON THE BIG 1 YEAR! My advice and my personal moto for my last couple months - when we begin to wide up our missions, the mission slang says we are "dying". This being said,

A busy week in Pisa!

Hello Family! Buon giorno tutti!

Okay, more details this week for the safety of mom's heart. Literally, we haven't had one quiet moment here in Pisa. We start running at 6:30 and literally havent slowed down until 10:40 each night. It feels good to work so hard with the end so near and I plan on keeping this pace to the end - so I will most likely come home half dead but consecrated! 

Updates: I had an italian companion for a day! Sorella Boscia is from Sicily and 35. I did an exchange with her and loved all 24 hours! It was a bittersweet exchange for me because after the day, my italian had already improved and it was sad to say goodbye knowing, I will most likely never have that experience again. She is a great missionary and we saw miracles left and right! 

I hate poison ivy....it's strangely good...

Family History...

Hello family!!!! This is crazy but I just really don't have the time to email...We are so graciously giving up the time to do geneology....what the heck, that is strange, turns out i still am just as dumb with technology and I cant figure out my family search so it's taking all my time! hahaha sooooooooo do your geneology people!

Pisa is doing better, I am doing better. Mostly because today at the leaning tower i started a new game and with every person I saw taking a classic picture of "holding the tower up" i instead ran up and high fived them! It was delightful! love you all, better email next week! 

"First Gander of the Leaning Tower of Pisa!"

"first gander at the leaning tower."

 Buona Sera famiglia mia! This week has been full of miracles and full of laughter!  Let's just jump right into it! So mostly, the miracle this week comes in the form of Sorella Condie! Finally, I was able to reunite with my bestie from the MTC and flat out just bestie here! I did my first scambio as sister-whatever-you-call-it with the Condster and I was so excited! Or goal for the scambio was to share the gospel through service and singing. We arrived in her little town and started looking for service. Well not many people were out at noon in the rain, so we decided to find a couple service organizations that were basically dead ends. It's pretty hard to find service here or to do service here - everything looks at you skeptically and asks "why do you want to do service?" Hahaha So we out of change, find a convent of nuns and we look at each other, shrug shoulders and head on it. Well after asking around a bit we were ushered into an ancient dining room style room and there Suora Elisabetta (nun elizabeth) came to meet with us and talk to us a little - mostly to make sure we arent sketchbox americans. It turned into a perfect teaching experience and we left her with a restoration pamplet, knowledge of Joseph Smith and a prayer. Yes, we prayed with a nun! She then did Padre Nostro (our Father) after and gave us two umbrellas for the rain. So per forza, we have a return appointment! Of course, This would happen with Sorella Condie and we were so proud of ourselves! That was just the beginning of the miracles!

"The house of the nuns."

Fun story of the week - we got an emergency call about our pipes having some leaking problem so we were ordered to be at home all monday so the workers could fix our pipes all day. Turns out, the pipes were leaking poison gas (ecco the hives) and we then were ordered to clear out the kitchen (this including taking apart a huge shelf in a little closet) and covering everything. The workers ordered us to the balcony where we were not allowed to leave. Essentially, we were locked out of our house at our house. I literally was going nuts. When a companion is sick at hone, it blows. But it is even worse with both parties are fine and well. We did as much missionary work as we could from the balcony and about 10 blessed hours later, we were given the okay to go back in the house. At this point, to say I was a little hyper was an understatement. But we had to put our house back together and that is when i spotted wet cement.....oh man, it was just calling my name and I couldnt resist. So now there will forever be my name in the cement in Pisa :) But then we put back our shelf, and that is harder to do when it is blasted hot, and a tiny space and broad shoulders (thank you both sets of grandparents for that legacy). I realized, i dont like humidity and tight spaces. 

First week in Pisa

It doesn't matter where you serve, but how you serve. - David O. McKay

I am definitely learning this lesson, this week. It has been a rough start from the very beginning. Leaving the other sorelle, Quintypoops, Haslem and Miller was very tough, as we have grown to be best friends in our 2 transfers together. From there, 4 of us sisters, loaded ourselves onto a train to Firenze. The local gypies sneakily put all our luggage (mine was the lightest might i say and i only had 3 pieces, go me!) above our heads on the train. Well 4 hours later after an hour delay we are approaching our stop accept, wait, no one told was where to get off or where to meet our companions (this is why 19 year old elders should not be in charge of people's travel plans.....) So in a frantic, sorella smart and I begin pulling everyone's luggage down when the bag slips her grip and......pulls the emergency breaks and the train comes screatching to a halt....angry conductor comes hallering and whooping down the hallway and when he see's us starts demanding 500 £. (that is more than all 4 of our MONTHLY allowances). So as she is grumbling about the "rich american girls on vacation on daddy's card" we pull out our visas, speak to him in Italian and he walks away in a huff, never to be seen again. Meno male. So, then the train doesn't even stop at firenze------so we travel an hour south of firenze, oh what up ROME! oops. So we jump off at the next stop, i rush to get return tickets for all of us, load back onto another train and finally end up in firenze...where we wait 2 hours for further directions. We ended up staying the night at got to bed at 1130pm. the next morning up and out and we arrive in Pisa. 

The tower leans way more than it looks....

Transfers news... this is exciting!

Transfer news - I was feeling like Sorella Guintypoops and I would stay here for another transfer. I was actually convinced this would be the case because of how awesome we work together and our fantastic relationship with the members so I was pretty convinced that we would stay here. Well Monday came around and at about 330 we got a call...I am headed to PISA!!!!!!!!! I will be joining Sorella Bennett and I will serve as a sister training leader (essentially a ZL for the sisters)  for that area of the mission. I was shocked to say the least, mostly heartbroken to leave Verona because I have the sensation that there is work still to be done in Verona. I feel like I am leaving strings untied and golden people but I trust Sorella Quinton will do the job better than I could and she will work hard. Sorella Var Daeo will be her companion (the only italian in the mission......flippin so lucky!) and so my baby will be singing sweet calls of repentence in perfect italian fra poco. Changes are a coming!

So Now I have been running around saying goodbye and trying to get some last work in. These two transfers have literallly been the best two of my mission. We came in literally with a clean slate - no work, no investigators, nothing really working out and we turned it all upside down. Now the sisters will work closely hand in hand with the members and we have incredible potentials. I couldnt be more pleased with the work that we have done. And oh buddy, Sorella Quinton that girl is on fire. She is an incredible missionary and is just going to be a great asset to the Lord here in italy. We have laughed, gotten lost, laughed harder, worked and played in the rain, and learned so much from each other. I am so grateful the Lord trusted me to be her trainer because she will be a best friend for life! 

Buona Sorpresa, è giovedi!

Buona Sorpresa, è giovedi! We traded our pday to feast our ears on the inspired words of the Church Historian, Elder Snow and Elder Kearon (member of the seventy) that were touring the mission. It was a wonderful day of spiritual insight and rejuvenation. I was also a lucky mother and got to sit between my babies Sorella Quinton and Sorella Burkman. They are so cute and fighting over who is the favorite daughter...I just smile and see my own mother's face in my head and say sweetly, "You are equally my favorite daughters" Even though I am really Sarah's favorite daughter, right mommsie?

"A proud mother with her daughters!"

"One year in Italy, gelato!!!"

Hastening the Work

I cannot believe it is already Pday! This mission time wrap is getting crazy....it's already May!

Cool moments of the week!

1) We visited the Benasutti's this week, the older couple who referred themselves (haha poor people never know what they are getting into) and we planned on teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. Well, we got stuck on infant baptism and I wasn't having it. Usually, I am very calm and rational but after listening to the "doctrine of original sin" a memory came to mind. The first time I was really exposed to a baby was Caleb (ya geez, thanks Mom and Dad for not ever giving me little brothers...I prayed forever for that....) but I remember looking into his little eyes and seeing nothing but innoscense (?) and purity. So I just blantly looked at them and asked, "How old were you when you were baptized?" "I was 8 days." "Did you choose to be baptized?" "No of course not, my parents chose." "That is the problem, you did not choose." We then read Moroni 8 while I added points to Team Righteousness. The concept of original sin is the most bogus idea ever. But then it got worse but in a different way. They wont act for themselves. They know they are sick and are literally waiting to die but they will not reach for the light. Why? F.E.A.R.Something inside of me said, "You did not fly thousands of miles away from your family to be afraid" I dont know what happened to me but my chest grew about 8 sizes, in fairly adequate italian i looked them straight in the eyes and said "listen to me. If I had the power to heal your bodies, i would do it in 2 seconds. But I dont- But we do hold keys that will heal you spiritually. As representatives of Jesus Christ, we have the power to help you but you have to want it. If you want to be healed, act now and stop waiting to die." Sometimes literally crying repentence feels SO GOOD! And these two italians listened to me without interruptin for about 55 seconds....

An American on an Italian train...

Buona Pasqua Tutti! I hope you all had a wonderful day of love and chocolate goodness. I hate lamb and felt like a murderer...

So this week was quite different than last week. Thursday, we had a scambio and we headed to Mestre to drop off the Sorella Quinton and pick up my companion for the day, Sorella Montagnoli. On the train back, the train was completely packed and in walked a young mother with 3 small children. Immediately I jumped up and offered my seat to the woman, who was speaking english to her children. Sorella M started talking to this woman while I sat on the floor and engaged the little ones in games. I had a very stimulating conversation with a 6 year old about her ponies and unicorns. Turns our this woman, grew up athiest and found God in china, of all places. She met her future american husband there and they now live here in italy. Next year they will move as missionaires to china. She was really interested in our belief that families can be together forever. After about 20 minutes her american husband walks in and starts talking to us. I stood up and we engaged in conversation. He asked me what the gospel of Jesus Christ is, and I am thinking to myself "this is going to be great conversation with a fellow missionary." Well, faith is the first principle. Faith unto repentence. The man exploded. He whips out his bible and begins asking me questions about insane doctrine. How long it take for abraham to be saved according to his faith? What is faith? How many years did it take for abraham to be righteious and then sacrifice Issac. After about 20 minutes of trying to teach with the spirit and testify, i was hit with the realization that I could not feel the spirit. This man, brutally attacking me and my faith, had driven away the spirit. 

A story about a nun...

Highlight of my life: This morning while riding on the way to the internet point, I stopped at a light and looked to the person on my left. I am a huge fan of awkward bike conversation so I immediately struck up conversation without even really thinking. The victim: a 80 year old Nun.

Sorella Alley "Oh how are you? Today is sure a wonderful day!"

Sister Veronica "I am fine, and you?"

Sorella Alley "Oh I am great! Just enjoying the sunshine."

Sister Veronica "What is your name?"

Sorella Alley "I am Sorella Alley"

Sister Veronica "..........no, I am Sister Veronica. Who are you?"

Sorella Alley "I am Sister Alley. We are both sisters."

Sister Veronica "But how can that be?" 

Sorella Alley "Well, if you would like, I can come to your..........cathedral? and teach you how that can be..."

Sorella Veronica " No thanks, I believe you."

Sorella Alley "okay, well remember CHrist was resurrected. Have a nice day"

I have a super important question

I have a super important question - It literally cannot wait.

What do you can an alligator in a vest?

An investiGATOR! 

oh ya, missionary jokes all day long! 

How about that general conference?! Each talk just sent my spirit a boogin' with joy and I was spiritually feasting the entire time. Mashed potatoes, who nees them? I have Anziano Holland. Turkey - that is for the weak. Elder Bednar offers better. Still hot rolls, not even a temptation. Dieter is totally a temptation. Rainbow jello, okay that I could do but I would still trade it for President Monson. Oh golly, la conferenza generale was the best one yet! I prepared myself for a week and prayed that Heavenly Father would make known to me what HE thought I needed in my life. I did not focus on receiving answers to questions or thoughts, instead, I said, "Padre Celeste, you know better than I do, what I need......I will do my best to open my heart and listen with my spiritual ears. Aiutami." And help me HE did! I received wonderful very personal revelation and my testimony became a bean stalk that I might just scale my way to the CK. 

Thanks to the big fam for having my italian people to the house and giving them some wonderful BBQ cibo. For reals, they are my people and I am so happy they got to experience the Alley way of life. Siete Bravi! 

Sorella Alley turns 22...

Buon compleanno a me!!! Tanti Auguri a me!!! Well, ya'll know me, and I believe in birthday week celebrations and not just birthday day celebrations. Luckily for me, my sweet companion and the other sorelle caught the fever! The sick details follow....

Get it, sick...fever......oh I am funny.

"Sunday Birthday Lunch! Quintonator made the
cake and it was delicious! Sono una mamma fiera.

Well, we started off Friday with celebrations. The cutest couple in the world since Gordon B and Marjorie Pay, Remo and Edda Ramini, invited us over for a birthday lunch. Remo, who has been blind for about 10 years, made the meal. Blind chef. Cool. After, they brought me a gift - a beautiful silk and woven yellow scarf, swiss chocolate and 2 pictures of themselves. I was so completely surprised and overwhelmed that these little weird things called lacrime - cioè a foreign liquid that accumulates in the eyes, fell down the smiling cheeks. I have a moment every transfer when I am completely overwhelmed with a confirmation of "Yes Sorella Alley, this is where you are supposed to be." It's the Lord confirming His choice to little ostinata Sorella Alley. It was a wonderful day to start of the celebration! 

March Madness, Birthday Madness and Missionary Madness!

All in the same month! Let's jump right in...giovedi we had a Zone conference and I totally had a "clicking" moment - hastening the work doesnt mean that we are going to find golden contacts after hitting the pavement for 72 hours every week. Hastening the work is being done through members because THAT IS WHERE golden referals are and that is where the Lord wants us missionaries. Click. So after that, we visited a family, the Eusebio's. Shout out for Elizabeth, they have been in Italy 10 years, but are BRAZILIAN! They were instantly loving and I felt at home within minutes. I loved being in their house and look foward to developing a real relationship with such incredible people.

I have developed a new method of contacting people. it's called "lucky Helmet". My helmet is not big enough for my head, so every time i put it on, i have to redo my hair and squish it on and smash it on. So, instead, now I only take it off when i absolutely have to. So I walk around with it on and do the errands with it on. This week the I taught 3 lessons on the street with Lucky Helmet. I shall describe my method with first lesson example - we stopped (on our bikes) for a stoplight and I looked to the person next to me. naturally he knew I was american because I had on a helmet. He said, "nice helmet American." So i said, "Thank you, would you like to come to church with me on Sunday?" hahaha nice transition Sorella Alley. Well we had a quick lesson, prayed with him (still on my bike) and sent him on his way. Guess who came to church on Sunday?! Lucky Helmet proves itself! So it has become part of me, I only take it off when necesarry. Building the kingdom of God, on awkward helmet stop at a time. 

Happppy Humpty Dumpty Day to Hermana Alley

Happppy Humpty Dumpty Day to Hermana Alley - oh and Happy Year to me! It is crazy to think that it was a year ago today, I became a missionary. I have learned many things in this year, far to many to scrivere but let's jump right in to this week!

"everyone loves a nice rifle in the happy couple's picture"

"Naturally i celebrated Irish with Green Eggs and Salami!"

Last week, we were in a little area called Villafranca and we were feeling a bit down. We had two options, we could either go home and do area book contacting, updating and calls and be home on time, or we could stay out and work till nine and guaranteed get back late. We dediceded to hit the Miracle Fence. We talked to quite a few people who were "non mi interessa" and one specific man wanted to argue about us for an hour about why we think we can marry Jesus. Brother, that is not us, that is your people called Nuns. Bah! We were a little further down when we walked to the station to catch our train (40 minutes late....) Well, there we met Luca who walked up and initiated the conversation. He said he knew instantly we were Americans (not because of the accent WIN!) but because we are both tall and blonde. haha So we leered him into our perfectly laid trap and had an hour lesson with him. At the end, he invited himself to church and asked us for the restauration pamphlet. MIRACLE FENCE SHATTERED! The concept of the miracle fence is as follows.

Casa di Gulietta

I must start off this email with wishing my favorite mamma and the little niblet happy birthday! Naturally, I celebrated your days of birh in my own little country and I sounds like you both will celebrate fantastically in yours! Buon Compleanno you two! AUGURI!

Now, this week in my life....well I was a missionary again...ummmm nothing super eventful happened but I will just ramble for a few paragraphs. So in each area, I seem to find a few people who become "my people". It's the darndest thing, but I have come to really believe that I knew this people premortally, It is more like our spirits communicate to each other and express more than our words actually do. I found my people this week in a older couple, the Ramini's. They are converts to the church of 11 years, when they were 62 (and people think they are too old to change). We have visited them twice and I have completely fallen in love with them. dang city of love. Fratello Ramini was gone blind and his wife just takes wonderful care of him. They are both artists and have a zeal for life that is uncommon amongst loss who have more years....Last night we were sitting around their table as we feasted on salami and olives (PROPRIO ITALIAN) and I just looked up and knew........I knew them before this life. They quickly volunteered to be my itailan grandparents and they are perfect for the job. People are the best part of this mission! I think Heavenly Father thins the veil a little bit for His missionaries because I feel love and support of those on the other side daily.

Miracles in Verona

The mission time wrap is crazy - pretty sure twas yesterday I giggled through your emails and yet here I am again...still giggling. But what a celebration it is to feast on the words of loved ones.

So Miracles is a good way to describe Verona. Sorella Quinton has stuck with me through the hours of being lost in the rain and having angry non active members slam doors in our faces. She has shown Coach that she is ready to play and set 6 BAPTISMAL DATES THIS WEEK! We had 6 referrals from street contacts and she set 6 dates with each of them. So in the last week - 6 baptismal dates and 6 new investigators. Essentially, we completed the monthly goal of the previous companionship and then some in a week of being in Verona. MIRACLES! 

This week we had an incredible lesson about the apostasy and how churches all have parts of the truth. It is always interesting to tell someone that their church is a direct fruit of the apostasy....and you just hold your breath to make sure they dont immediately kick you out of their house. But during this lesson I felt the Spirit testifying about the truthfullnes of the restored gospel. I am so grateful to have the truth in my life and know the source of All Truth. 

I am in Verona, Italia.

I still cannot get over it. Lowdown of the events. We arrived in Milano early Thursday morning and dropped my baggage off (I am pretty sure Heavenly Father shrunk my bags and tripled the load and just laughed...) and headed to meet the victims...our verdina's (greenies). Again, it came down to the very last two girls and Sorella Smart and I. My new baby girl is Ashley Quinton from Price, Utah! She is an infant - graduated in 2013 (haha i had a good chuckle seeing I am nearly the 5 year reunion haha) and feel like a little mother hen. She's got a fantastic sense of humor, has great pronunciation and doesn't snore - so I am happy.

We grabbed herself (I think she came with like 10 things and 4 books...) and myself and headed off to Verona. Luckily, we are living in four as there is another coppia of sisters here and Sorella Haslem (from my MTC group) is also training so we got to follow them to the apartment! We live in a very spacious apartment and it is right on the main strip of town. We got a little organized and jumped right into work. 

Romeo, Romeo, where are thou Romeo?!

Romeo, Romeo, where are thou Romeo?! 

Juliet, Juliet, Let down your hair! 

Romeo, Romeo, Kiss me you fool! 

That sounds like a fairly accurate accounting of that o-so-famous story written by a foreigner English bloke. 

Oh that isn't how the story goes?! Oh, well I will let you know when I get there......I AM GOING TO VERONA!!!   That is right, Verona! The land of beauty and so much history. I could not be more excited about this new adventure. Transfers came on Monday and while we were cleaning the house, the phone rings - President Dibb. My initial thought was to throw the phone off the balcony but thankfully, the natural woman did not succeed as a perfect composed Me answered the phone. Well I folks, I have been given a chance to repent from messing up my first daughter. I am having a baby again! So yes, you are reading this correctly. New city, new girl, no knowledge of anything, and a lot of prayers will be my new normal come Thursday morning. Sorella Smart will be training in Lodi! That lucky new greenie! 

Big news part two! President Dibb interviewed Alessandro for baptism and found him more than ready to be baptized! Alessandro will enter the waters of baptism on Saturday (36 hours after I leave...tears....) but I could not be any more excited or happy for him. He is going to be the best asset for the ward and the entire church. He tells me things all the time that I had no clue about....he is like the Mormon encyclopedia for missionaries. 

Week 5

I cannnnnot believe that it is already week 5 of transfers! Next week are transfers so hold off on any mail. I feel like I will be out of here next week (especially because I told President that Sorella Smart should be considered for a training opportunity....she's not so thrilled...hehe) so perhaps next week I will chatting in between packing!

But let's just jump right in. This week, we had Alessandro's baptismal interview and he needs a bit more time to prepare. He is having a harder time quitting smoking but honestly recognizes the need and the blessings that will come from living the word of wisdom. However, when a person does not meet their date for baptism it is always heartbreaking. I was pretty upset and hit the knees hard for a solid 20 minutes seeking direction. Sorella Smart and I talked and decided that time is this man's worst enemy considering he received a Book of Mormon 15 years ago. We headed back to his house for the second time that day and had an incredible lesson about becoming a disciple of Jesus Christ and what it means. There are moments in my mission, when I realize that I love these people with every fiber of my being and I know it is just a smidgen of what our Savior feels for them. At one point, I looked Alessandro straight in the eyes and said, "There is no one on this earth more important than you are for us. We will do this together." I am a representative of Jesus Christ and I could not be happier with my current full time job. I just may never come home. 

A big surprise...

The time is approxiamately 8:17 am and I am intensely studying when I am startled by the citofono goes off.

"What the heck, who could that be?"

"Chi è?" (Who is it?)

in an awful arabic sounding accent "Sorella Alley, do you do corso d'inglese?....corso d'inglese?" 

"Si, ma in la chiesa e il martedi. Chi parla?" (yes, but in the church on tuesday, Who is talking?) ((in my head - OH no!!!! Armondo the creep has found my house!!!!!)

"uhhhh Fratello Alley..:"

"SHUT UP YOU ARE AT MY HOUSE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" 

I then ran, through the rain, in my socks, to find gooood ol' Richard P. Alley standing at my gate. What the heck, the best sorpresa (surprise!) in my entire life! Literally, i was so happy i had little happy tears explode from my eyeballs. Well We then sat outside my door and chatted for about 48 minutes hahaha and then he had to go on his way as I was on an exhange. I then got to talk on the phone while being totally Italian and chatting on the metro. But seriously it was such the bomb surprise and brightened my entire transfer. Basically what I am saying is that I have the bomb diggity oldest brother who thankfully likes surprises more than anyone does! Also, he gave a little cash (A LOT; THANK YOU!) to the Sorella Alley Italian Shoe Fund (sorry Dad, i am coming home with double the amount of shoes!). Oh how wonderful! 

Other than that, I was a good old boring missionary. Except we taught Mima this week about Prayer. She loves that we prayer directly to our heavenly father but she says "non sono capace" (i am not capable!). Well Sorella Alley wasnt having that negative thought from little red horns any longer. Sorella Smart offered a prayer to calm her down a bit and then I asked her to pray. She was so nervous and shy that I just sat down (practically on her) and took her hands in mine, looked her dead in the eyes and said, "Mima, you Father is waiting to hear from you." and closed my eyes. Her hands were shaking in mine but she offered the most sincere and humble prayer I have ever heard! The Spirit immediately filled the entire room and it was incredible. Prayer is something that I personally struggle with and often have to really convince myself to pray but oh baby does it work!!!!!!!! Mima is progressing towards baptism and she changes daily. 

To my friends and family apparently withering away in good old drought utah....

This week has been an intense week or hard work. We have pushed ourselves to be better and concentrate 100% on the work.As a result we have been out of the house from 10 until 10 with appointments and service. But we have also seen the miracles and blessings of our consecration.

On Monday, we worse pants and ugly clothes under normal missionary clothes so that we could start the day of with some service. We cleaned the mold that was taking over a member's apartment and I never thought I would hear this but I was praised for my "height". haha I was the only person with height adequate to stand of the very top step of the latter and reach the ceiling. So I inhaled mold and bleach to get in a lesson about the mold in our lives. I was preaching while bleaching. La Muffa (mold, hahaha how fun is italian) is part of this world and pollutes our lives. It is up to us to clean ourselves of this muffa and we are the only ones who can being the cleansing process. Christ is the candeggina (bleach) that purifies us of our muffa. Totally killed the muffa and the lesson. And I rather liked teaching from a latter, totally felt like my boy Samuel the Lamanite. 

"You find interesting things in rivers near grocery stores..."

Let's start with a Poem:

Another day has come and gone, another moon has set. I am in this land of Italy, working hard you can bet. I think instead of a companion, I will turn my companion into a pet. I learned new word this week, salumi...english for cutlet. And Now i have run out of words that rymth with et.

Hello dearest family! 

We had a baptism! Fiona entered the refreshing waters of baptism Saturday the 18th at 730pm! And technicallllllllly, it was a double baptism because she is 7 months pregnant! Nah, we are just warming that little guy up for his own baptism in 8 years.  The ceremony went wonderfully and I gave a nice talk on baptism. She enjoyed it. Then she was baptized and it WAS PERFECT!! When we ran into the bathroom to greet her she was shevering and exlaiming, "I am freezing because I dont have any sin keeping me warm!!!!!" Amen, praise to heaven YOU ARE CLEAN! 

I love baptisms. 

Another P-Day? Already

Mamma Mia, un altra settimana ha gia passato! Come?! Hellllllo Family! Literally, I am pretty sure pday was two days ago but nope here it is again. To start of the week, hear's a little story and you can judge me if you'd like. I "woke" up this morning literally terrified that someone was after my six color scripture marking highlighter pen. So after locating it, I did the best thing I could do to keep it secure, and I slept with it. Yes, this morning, the alarm went off and I thought to myself, "that was a weird dream" only to find my pen tightly clenched in my hand. But alas, I can resume morning studies with a secure pen.

Miracle Time! I dont even know where to begin. 

Fiona! She is a cousin of a recent convert that we have been meeting with for bout two months. She totally wants to get baptized but we had to set her date for the 1 feb because she wanted to get married first. She was married Tribally in Nigeria but wants a legal marriage in Italy. Well Sunday night we meet with her and all timid like, she says, "I am really tired of waiting to be baptized, can I just get baptized and just not see my man until we are married?" ummmmm, did you just ask to be baptized earlier?! Welcome to the fold my sister, salvation is just around the corner! After cleaning her situation with President Dibb and her moving in with her cousin, she will be baptized Saturday! She is so cute and cannnnnnot wait to take the sacrament. 

Cara Famiglia Mia,

   Che cosa posso dirvi?! Io so, SONO UN NUOVA ZIA! Ben venuta alla terra mia nipotina! Tu sei bella come la tua mamma!

So excited to welcome little Leah into the world! She is beautiful beyond words and is going to be so spoiled. I LOVE HER. Anyways, transfer news. I am staying in Lodi with Sorella Smart for another transfer. As last transfer ended with a dud, and almost 0 investigators, we are hoping to start of stronger and stay stronger. 

In this weeks edition of "Thank you various siblings for preparing my investigators" we travel to......drum rolllll..... BRAZIL! Sit back down in your seat, Elizabeth. We met Leah on the street on Dec. 6 and were finalllllly able to meet with her this Monday! She is passing through some trials right now but totally accepted the BoM and wants good change in her life. So we have a return appointment with her and we are planning on bringing her heaven. Did i mention she's a professional cook? Oh, and she's beautiful! It's kinda intimidating. We are the ugly missionaries. hahaha

2014 New Year's Day

Buon' Anno Famiglia Mia!!!

 

I cannot believe it is 2014!!! How did that happen!? Somehow, a hop and skip across the ocean makes time FLY past and we are welcoming in the new year, tis the year I will rejoin you on my beloved soil of America. God bless 2014. To celebrate the new year, President banished us to the apartment. We had to be inside be 5pm. In Italy, you put a little alcohol in the bloodstream and it becomes a good idea to celebrate the new year by throwing out the old refrigerator. So to protect ourselves from flying refrigerators, we spent the evening inside the house. I did a little studying of the language, made scones, gave Sorella Smart a make over and cleaned. Turns out Sorella Smart is a bit of a light weight and fell asleep, so I read from Jesus the Christ and had my mind blown! That book is genious. Anyways, I woke her up for the new year and we watched fireworks from our porch. at 12:05 I was in bed. Hahaha welcome 2014! 

I think this email, I will spend a bit of time reflecting. Let us take a stroll down memory lane insieme. Lessons learned from 2013 -