This is the Lord's Work

I love being a missionary.  I love the stress, the happiness, and even the mornings when you wake up feeling like you recieved zero hours of sleep.  Another missoinary mentioned that I looked like I had been hit by a train, and it made me think about one wonderful morning when Dad asked me if I was going to school like that, and then ever so kindly reminded me that I looked like "Death warmed over".  Haha, but I read this awesome quote (see quote in bold teal below)and I know that none of the things that are happening now are that big of a deal..... well the work is a big deal, but the exhaustion and the stress and all of the other round bumps that we hit are just small, and not something that we should get caught up in.  
"When we LOVE the Lord, 

OBEDIENCE ceases to be a burden.  

It becomes a DELIGHT." - Joseph B. Wirthlin

Alright now onto the new and exciting things.  There is a new transfer, and new and exciting things happening here in Southern California.  Let me just put some rumors aside right now. 
Yes I am an "Old" missionary now.  My Mission Mom went home today, and is probably with her family right now.  No one is going to know who the crazy but loving and inspiring Sister M is... Until they meet me! I am not letting her memory die! Haha!

I am training a new missionary this Transfer.  There are 29 missionaries coming in.  They actually just got to the mission office 6 minutes ago... Haha, so Sister T and I are going back to the car that I drive to get my overnight bag.

Oh yeah, did I mention that Sister T and I are companions again!? Haha, well just till tomorrow but still! We are staying with the Redhill Sisters in Rancho, but then we were talking with the AP's and we were telling them we didn't know what to do tonight, and they said we could go work in UPLAND!!!!!!!!!! GAH! I am so happy! Hahaha, so I am back in Upland with Sister T! #dreamteamreunited She is training as well, so we will get to see each other in a couple weeks again at the 4 week meeting.  I could not love this transfer doctrine call anymore.  When Elder B called to tell me who my temporary companion was, he told me that I was going to like it very much... And then he paused. I am pretty sure it was just for like 20 seconds but it felt like forever.  And then he said you will be with.... (more pausing) SIster T! I may or may not have jumped in a circle and screamed/yelled in happiness. She is one of those Sisters that I know she was a saving grace, and a Best Friend in one.  How lucky to have her as my companion for 24/7 for 12 weeks.  Well make it 12 weeks and 2 days! Upland Better Watch Out! We are coming for you!

Sorry this email is so crazy! I am just running out of time! This last week we saw so many amazing things happen.  We were able to see Oneida this week with her Boys! They are so awesome.  When we were teaching them the Plan of Salvation the Spirit was so strong and they were all getting it.  I have never met a 5, 7 and 9 year old that has never heard the Gospel but has these experiences where you know the Lord has been preparing them. I can't wait for Oneida and Greg (9) to get baptized on August 22! It is going to be awesome! We went over last night and told them Sister G was getting transferred.  When we were there Brad told me that he had a lose tooth, I jokingly told him to pull it out.  Not 30 seconds later I feel him tap my back and blood coming out of his mouth.  Haha, he got the tooth out.  I guess that we really do have an influence on those boys!  They are too cool for school! Haha!g\

We also saw Brenda and had two amazing lessons with her! She is just so awesome! We taught Gospel of Jesus Christ and Plan of Salvation.  She is getting it all, and I just love her enthusiasm for the Gospel.  She is such an example to all of us.  She is still on track to get baptized on August 8th! And so that is super great! She came to Church, which is such a blessing because if she missed last Sunday then we would have had to push her baptism back.
You all are amazing people.  I was reading a talk this last week called Quick to Observe. You all should read it.  It really changed my perspective on a lot of things.  Good Ole' Sister C had me read it a couple weeks ago after exchanges, but I think that it was time for a refresher.  It is super good! Read it!
As a representative of Jesus Christ, I testify to you all that there is a living Prophet on the Earth.  He is there to lead and guide us, just as the Prophets of Old.  Why would the people have a prophet and there be no need for us to have one.  I testify that He is called of God.  I know this is the Lord's work.  His hand is in it more than I think we sometimes realize.  Times may be tough, but as a less-active was telling us: "He is always there, even when I make HUGE mistakes.  He is willing to let me back in, and He will still love all of us. I love the Savior." When she said that, she just started bawling, and I realized that she was finally getting the things that we had been teaching her.  It was such a miracle, and she told us that we are the one's that have helped her see God's Love in her life.  I know missionaries make differences in people's lives, but members make just as big of a difference, if not more.  I am so grateful for my ward members here.  They are all so great, and such a great example to me that the Lord will never let us do this alone.  He will give us companions, and others to help us.  I know that the same Priesthood Power that Christ had is here on the Earth today.  I know that same Priesthood is held by the Elders, my Dad, my Brother, and so many other Righteous Men in the Church.  It allows us to be blessed everyday of our lives.  I can't imagine the world without it.  Actually let me take that back, I can. But it would be miserable and sad.  I know that our Faith is sometimes all we have, but that Faith allows the Atonement and His Grace to work in our lives.  Our Faith will never leave, unless we let it.
Remember,  "When we LOVE the Lord, 

OBEDIENCE ceases to be a burden.  

It becomes a DELIGHT." - Joseph B. Wirthlin

Have a great week! 

Love, Sister Rietz

Apple Valley Sisters

 District in the Valley of Apples.  (this is our Boy Band name, and we are going to be famous one day)

Hello Apple Valley and not much time to email...

I am in a new area. I am finishing training a new missionary.  I am still in a car. There are only 4 sisters in my zone.  Our zone covers Big Bear, Lucerne, and some mountains.  We are in 2 wards: Ranchos and Granite Hills.  I know that this transfer is going to be crazy, because it already has been.  This morning all was great! We cleaned the car, went to the Upland Look Out spot with the Sisters.  We got everything cleaned in our apartment. We fit everything in the car.  And didn't hit ANY traffic on the way there.  All of those are Miracles.  Then we had an awesome meeting with all the missionaries getting transferred. Lots of great things said about submitting your will to the Lord, and staying focused.  All things that are really good to hear.  Then the Fun started.... So I was in a meeting for trainers that was only supposed to last an hour. Well President had to take care of some things, and so it started late.  Then it went over by 45 mins.  So we are now running an hour behind.  Not good.  Then we realize that there was a mix up, and the phone that is for this area was in Apple Valley, and we were not... THEN I realized I had no idea how to get there.  So never fear the AP's save the day.  They got us directions to make it to Apple Valley.  I needed to make sure my bike made it up to the desert, and the Elders that had brought my bike from Upland said it was gone from where they had put it.  I love my bike, and I was so sad.  All I could think was how much I wanted to see my bike.  We were some of the last missionaries to leave, and when we were walking out lo and behold my bike is on the back of this truck.  And to make it better, in that truck was 2 missionaries that I have served around before.  They pulled up next to us, and explained that we could follow them to Apple Valley.  I was so happy, because I felt like my prayer was answered.  They said they had to get gas, and food then we could start heading up the hill.  We went to one gas station.  It didn't accept the mission gas card. Went to another gas station.  It was out of service.  I felt bad because you could tell Elder F was really flustered.  Then we finally get to a gas station that pumps gas. But it doesn't end there.  The ONE pump I pulled up to didn't work.  So we waited to use the Elders pump.  We got gas, and away we went.  Traffic wasn't bad at first.  We were going about 80 and then all of a sudden we got in a wreck.  Yeah, the Jeep Compass that I was driving is toast.  Okay just kidding.  No wreck happened.Traffic just slowed to a whole 7 mph.  So then coming up the hill was super slow going. We left the mission office around 1:30ish and just got to Apple Valley at 3:45ish.  It was a long tiring day, but I am so grateful to be here, and start the next chapter in my mission life.  All I know about this area is on Saturday at 10:15 at night it was 95 degrees in Apple Valley. I am so gonna be more tan than you Kristin.  We live in a house, with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.  And we are the only sisters living there.  We have a lesson tonight with an 8 year old and we are going to set a baptismal date with him tonight.  Good things are happening here in Apple Valley.  Upland 3rd no longer has sisters.  They decided there was not enough work for 4 missionaries in that ward.  Elder J, Sister S, and myself all got transferred and we all went to the same zone in Apple Valley! What are the odds!? Elder J and I are also ward mates again, and he is also training. 2 new missionaries in 2 new wards with 2 new missionaries to the area... This is going to be really really really interesting. But like I said there is a lot going on in this ward.  I am so happy to be back in the Desert, and just driving up here I was thinking back to a year ago when I was brand new, and coming to the Desert for the first time.  It was awesome.  That word is the only way I can describe it.  But the Lord works in mysterious ways, and I know this is the area that I am supposed to be in.

Thank you to all those that loved me, cared for me, and that now hold a special place in my heart.  I will forever remember you, and the adventures, moments, and all the other fun times that we had together.  I will be safe here, for being in Apple Valley this is a pretty good area.  I heard that Hesperia was worse, except they have found bodies in the church parking lot and in the field across from the Church, but that was awhile ago so NO WORRIES MOM!!! 

I love you so much! Thanks for being such amazing, awesome, wonderful people! I am so sorry this didn't talk about anything that happened this last week.  Just know that we did LOTS of service, Sister M stepped on a rusty nail but is fine, got 78 lemons and 39 grapefruit from a member, I said Good bye to Sister M and Sister N today.  It was rough.  I love those sisters a lot.  They both taught me so much about how to become a missionary, and how to become a better missionary!

So I said this sunday, and Candy requested that I put it in the email:

Favorite Quote: "Everybody in the Desert needs Jesus Christ"

Sorry for no pictures.  This was just a rush email!

Love, Sister Rietz

I love going to the PARK! and using a machete

1.Funniest Thing Done: I learned how to use a machete. That was not funny but the woman was laughing at me, because "you is a white girl, using a brown woman's tool." I am now a pro, and we cut down SO many weeds.  I am amazed at how just a simple blade changed so many people's lives.  Can you imagine what it would have been like trying to PULL those weeds out! Holy Cow.  It would have equaled MISERY! I realized this wasn't all that funny, but I think watching me learn how to use it was.

2.Biggest Blessing or Miracle: So I really really like Parks now.  I have realized that we are not stalkers at them.  We like to use the swings, slides, and other features just as much as a 5 year old.  But we were at the park talking with our Relief Society President, and this woman walked by saying "Bye Sisters."  I said, "Bye".  Then our RSP said, How did she know you were sisters!?  I told her I thought that she knew her, because when we got there they were talking.  Turns out they don't know each other.  So then we are sitting there, and you know when the Spirit is like, DON'T JUST SIT THERE!!! GO TALK WITH HER! yeah, you don't argue with that.  I jumped up, and saw the woman getting into her car, I yelled, "Excuse me!" and ran up to her.  I got talking with her, and she told me that she was a member... I was like dang, not a potential... But then she said, "I haven't been to church in 26 years." WHAT!!!! I was so excited! I asked her life story, got her name, number, and address.  I knew that she didn't live in our area, but that the 1st ward sisters would love it! So she told me that she wanted to meet with Sisters, and I got all her info and everything.  So at this point, I didn't even if she was in the ward list.  We said goodbye, and I was so grateful I had listened to the Spirit.  We called the Sisters that night, and they said there was no woman by her name on their list.  That means we just found a lost member! I love meeting lost members!!! She moved from Mass when she was 16, and she was the only member in her family, so it is amazing that we found her.  What an amazing thing right!!!!

3.Exciting Events: Miguel is being taught by the Elders, and he bore his testimony on Sunday.  It was so good! He talked about how he has hit rock bottom, and this is his only way out of it.  I am so grateful for the role the Atonement is going to play in his life.

5.Favorite Food: Well all we had was Tacos, or Burritos this week. For real, we really only ate Tacos, or Burritos.  But they were really good, so that is a good thing! But one did get us not feeling too good.  I think the meat was a little bad....

6.Most Challenging Thing: Knowing that Transfers are coming up... I hate transfers.  Especially when I am in Upland: the land of amazing people and crazy adventures. It is Zion here!

7.Simple Pleasures: Sun.  Listening to all the kids play on the Basketball Court across our street at night.  Listening to people get beat up. (JUST KIDDING! It is so awkward, and terrible and sad) The cops came and took care of it. So I guess Cops are simple pleasures of keeping us safe.

8.Goals: Find someone to teach in this area. We have one girl that we are hoping to start teaching this week.  Her name is Brittney.  She is 17, and seems really excited to meet with us. And we are EXCITED TOO!!!!

9.Biggest Smile: Steve M got baptized! His brother got the priesthood, and was able to baptize him.  His family is really less active, but Steve is pushing through, and his older brother is following his lead.  Greg is preparing to go on a mission, and is really really exited. Their family is slowly coming back to church! I am so excited, because when I was in the 2nd Ward, I really felt like their family was going to be forever LA, and now they are coming back! Those Elders were able to connect with the Boys, and miracles are happening!

10.Biggest Accomplishment: I feel like I know the Area now.  After 5 weeks of U-turns and feelings of Stress from our map and GPS, I now know how to get places.  I feel so happy!!!

11.Favorite Scripture Story Studied: Jacob 5.  Yeah, it's all about Missionary Work, and grafting in those converts.  I probably am really off, but it all makes sense to me that way.

12.Favorite Quote: "You have a cold right!?"-Sister H "It's going away."-Me "Don't come to my house till it is gone."-Sister H *click* phone call ended.

Well that was our week.  A lot more happened, but I can't even remember it all.  I feel so crazy, and there are so many options with Transfers because I have been in Upland for so long, and yet I have been in this ward for only 5 weeks, so we shall see next week where I am, and Who I am companions with!

I love all of you! I love this church! I love the Gospel! I am so grateful for everything that it includes. Especially that I am able to be able to tell people they can be with God again, that He loves them, and they can be with their families forever.  WHAT AN AWESOME THING!!!!!!!!!!

Love, Sister Rietz

White girl using a brown woman's tool

Missionary antics

Pies. Service. False Alarms. Exchanges

1.Funniest Thing Done: One of the Elders has been telling people how to pronounce my name, and they were at the house of the members who we had dinner with the other night and told them to say my name "Sister Rights". During dinner, they asked me how my dad's potato farm was doing.  I thought that they were kidding, and trying to crack a joke and then I realized they were serious... I tried to tell them that we didn't live on a farm, but they would not buy it.  They were convinced Dad was a Potato Farmer.  I told them no, and they got so mad at the Elder.  Sister M told us that she was going to punch him at church.  (Which she did!) The M Family wants to get him back, and so they are planning something. Not sure what it is, but it is going to happen!

2.Biggest Blessing or Miracle: So there was a family that we would help when we would go to the Methodist Church on Saturdays, and they were super cute.  After getting to know them a little, we learned that the Mom's grandma wrote, I am a Child of God! And they wanted to come to church.  They came a couple times when I was in the 2nd Ward, but then they dropped off the face of the Earth.  In our Meeting on Sunday with the Elders and our Ward Mission Leader, this family was brought up randomly.  Mind you, they have never been to the 3rd ward, and NO ONE here knows who they are except me.  Well we finish the meeting, and we walk into Sacrament Meeting.  Lo and Behold, Who was there?! The Dad! Miguel! What are the odds that the one week we are talking about him, HE COMES TO THE EXACT WARD I AM SERVING IN! We talked with him, and he told us the 2 kids were taken by CPS, and his wife is in Twenty-Nine Palms.  He told us, only good things can happen from God.  and he talked about how he knows that he needs to be baptized.  THIS IS SUCH A MIRACLE, because we have been praying for someone to teach, and he just walked into the church! He currently is living with his friend, and in our area! Please Pray for Miguel and his family.  They have had a hard life, and we know that the Gospel will be the answer to his prayers. 

3.Exciting Events: I went on Exchanges with Sister V again.  It was really really fun.  We were able to see people that I have not yet met, and we also got to feed a GIANT African Turtle.  It was so cute! It can't eat fruit, and I wanted to give it an apple so bad, but the member told me I would kill it. And then I would have to eat it...

4.Favorite Game: How many pies can we get this week? We got two last week, and they were super good! One was a minced meat pie, and the other was Lemon Merangue.  Quite Delicious if you ask me! We now have a challenge with the Elders to see who can get more than the other companionship.

5.Favorite Food: Pineapple.  It is so good, and even better when you cut it open yourself.  That minced meat pie was pretty good as well.  Sister T told me she was going to make me English...

6.Most Challenging Thing: Doing Service for people, and then in the middle of the service they tell you that there is no way they are going to convert them.  I think that it shows that people just want to use us.  Haha, which is fine but at the same time I wish that they would have a desire to learn from us.  

7.Simple Pleasures: Rain. But we didn't have any.  and SUN. I love Sun. If I get Skin Cancer, don't worry I will just die happy.

8.Goals: Get 2 New Investigators. See all the Miracles around me.

9.Biggest Smile: When we were able to go see Sister F in Mount Baldy, and we got to help her.  I love service.

10.Biggest Accomplishment: Not getting lost this week! 

11.Favorite Scripture Story Studied: The Hymn "When Faith Endures" It is amazing!!!!

12.Favorite Quote: "I was going to just shoot him! I was so mad, and he was going to become cactus fertilizer...." I was so scared!

I gotta go, but I love all of you so much!!!!

XoXo!

Editor's note - I have no idea what this picture is.  Sorry

Love, Sister Rietz

Obedience Brings Forth Blessings

1.Funniest Thing Done: We went and did service for a woman in our ward that got in a car wreck, and broke her neck.  While we were at her house, the Elders were removing stumps and branches etc. and we were inside helping her with everyday/weekly/monthly things that needed to get done.  We helped her clean out her pantry, organize her bedroom so it is easier for her to get around, and then we made her bed and put new sheets on it.  She was so grateful, and I realized that she had such a new view on service and the ward literally being there for her.  It really reminded me of the new Mormon Message titled "Lift." GO LOOK IT UP! Anyways, now to the humorous part. Oh, one more thing this woman is maybe 4' 11''. Weighs 105lbs, is 70 years old but has the mouth and the spunk of a 13 year old girl. Now to the funny part: We were all eating dinner with her, and the Elders were having a side conversation, and poor sweet Sister F just wanted in on the conversation as well.  She wanted to know what they were talking about, and they were not going to tell her.  They said that it would scare her.  She told them nothing scared her, and that if they didn't tell her what they were talking about she just might have to cause a big fuss in the middle of sacrament, and then the whole ward would know.  So the Elders continued talking in what seemed like code, and Sister F said, "I have Bishops number around here somewhere... I can cause this fuss to start a lot sooner than Sunday Elders." and then the Elders spilled it all.  Mom: I am not sure you want to read this... They were talking about how some Elders witnessed a drive by shooting, and then the guy that was shot asked them to pray with him.  So they did, and then they gave him a blessing, and then the cops showed up. That was not the funny part, I don't have that terrible of a humor people.

2.Biggest Blessing or Miracle: So this last week, we went on a hike! It was AWESOME! So what do we do when the Library is closed for the holiday, and we have 3 more hours to our P-day? WE GO ON ANOTHER HIKE! Well, we had to get permission from our Mission President, and he was really worried that someone was going to get hurt, or that we would die or something crazy like that... Anyways, so I had to talk with our Mission President and give him all the details, and he said we had to be back at 4:30.  Well we gave ourselves enough time, or so we thought, and we had a jolly good time.  There were lots of people, and I am not sure they were very happy that 6 sisters were trying to not only hike, but they were giving out cards left and right.  So we are .4 miles away from the top, and it was 3:15.  We still had to get back down, and we knew that it was going to take sometime.  We all really wanted to make it to the top, but knew that it would make it so we were late to our agreement with President.  I knew that if we were late it would be my fault, because I had organized the hike, and I had promised President that we would be done hiking at 4:30.  We decided being obedient was more important that making it to the top. I guess this is when Obedience with Exactness comes into play... We were blessed when we got down because we DIDN'T get a parking ticket and other people did. Almost all the cars had them, EXCEPT OURS! We came to the conclusion, that if we had gone to the top, our cars would have been ticketed... We didn't buy a day pass...oops.  But all is well!!

3.Exciting Events: We had so many miracles! I don't even know where to start! On Friday I went with one of the Spanish Sisters to a dinner appointment, because Hermana W is really allergic to corn and their meal was all corn based, so I went in her stead.  So the meal was really good.  No idea what it was called, but you put lettuce in it, and we all had chicken legs, and there was totally a foot in the mom's bowl... anyways, there was also this really hot chili sauce you put in it but it was so GOOD! So during the meal, we were talking about the Gospel, and the family is not members.  The Daughter is an investigator that I actually taught while on exchanges last transfer when our companions were sick, and Hermana Z and I teamed up.  Anyways, we were talking about families are forever, and I was teaching in English, and Hma. Z was translating for the mom...  I had no idea what the woman asked but I knew that she needed to know God Loved HER.  SOOO, I opened my mouth, and I told her somethings that I honestly don't know what it was, and then I looked back at the Mom, and she had tears just swelling up in her eyes, and then bam. Tears were in everyone's eyes, and I had no idea what was wrong... When we got out of the lesson, Hma. Z told me I said exactly what the Mom needed to hear.  She said she couldn't believe that I knew exactly what to say.  I told her I didn't, and she called me a Liar, and then said, "Hermana you listened to the Spirit, and it was beautiful." So that was pretty cool! And then, on Saturday our phone rang and I answered, and this man with a super thick Arabic accent tells me that he wants us to come teach his daughter, cause he wants her baptized! WHAT!!! This never happens people! It seemed too good to be true, and it was... So we got to his house, and turns out his granddaughter is 4.... So in 4 years she will be baptized. It was still a miracle, because he is not a member, and he wants us to come over every week.

5.Favorite Food: The meal I ate in the Spanish Ward.

6.Most Challenging Thing: Isaiah Chapters in 2 Nephi.

7.Simple Pleasures: Hiking, and seeing the Nature all around.  It was so peaceful!

8.Goals: Be Positive. Be Straight Forward with Everyone, and Just be Honest with Them.

9.Biggest Smile: Falling on the hike, and seeing this guy look at me like, "You Idiot!" haha, I couldn't help it. The path was small, and he was not the smallest person, and I tried to run up the mountain side, and ate dirt... Yeah, people laughed and I laughed!!! So it was good!

10.Biggest Accomplishment: We almost hiked 7 miles yesterday, but obedience was more important.

11.Favorite Scripture Story Studied: 2 Nephi 16... Yeah, it is confusing, but SO GOOD!

12.Favorite Quote: "For the first time in a whole week, I was able to go 2 hours without thinking about girls during EFY."- Tanner S in his sacrament talk...

Whelp, I love all of you! Have a fantabulous week! I got that package Mom. THANKS SO MUCH!!! 

XOXOXO, SIster Rietz

one in shorts is from yesterday. One in pants, last week.

Our hike last week

We had some adventures....

....I hope you are having adventures

The obedient Sister Missionaries

One year out...

1.Funniest Thing Done: Well we were in ward council, and the Relief Society was talking about her husbands cat, and how much she hated it. And then out of nowhere this super sweet 80 year old man blurts out, "well just kill the cat. That is all you have to do." Then he didn't laugh or change his facial expression at all.  It was pretty funny because no one expected him to say that.  At the end of the meeting, he turned to the Relief Society President and told her that he would take care of the cat, or he was going to take her husbands man card.  There were so many funny moments in Ward Council.  Anytime there was a disagreement or someone was saying something kind of serious, someone would drop the "just kill the cat" line, and then everyone would start laughing.  That was probably one of the most hilarious, but long meetings of my life.  It was two hours long.

2.Biggest Blessing or Miracle: When we were at the Doctors, I was able to talk with Sister H and get a new perspective on the area, things that we could do to help the ward, and to also find new people to teach.  It was so awesome.  Another Miracle that happened this last week, was we were reading from Stand a Little Taller, from President Hinckley and the scripture that was for my birthday was exactly what I needed that day.  I knew that Heavenly Father led us to that scripture for me. BUT it doesn't stop there!!! We brought it with us to some lessons, and we would ask people their birthday and then we would look it up and read them their scripture.  So many people were just baffled that it was what the book said.  One lady thought we were making it up, so she read it herself and started freaking out saying, "He really just answered my prayer.  He was listening to me. He was listening to my freakout of a prayer." That was such a miracle, because we had ZERO idea how we could help her, and now we have a direction as to how we can help her testimony grow.  I love the Spirit. haha.

3.Exciting Events: We had President Interviews, and guess who is going to be RIDING A BIKE AGAIN really soon?? ME! I was telling President last week that I would love to bike again, and in interviews we talked about it some more how in a car you can't really contact that many people, because no one wants a car pulling up beside them asking if they want to learn about Jesus Christ. Then BAM we got a call from the Zone Leaders about if they could theoretically get us a bike rack would we use it? I told them, ELDERS IS THAT EVEN A QUESTION!!! OF COURSE! Our area is too far to bike to, so we will be driving to our area and then biking where ever we want! The Upland 3rd Area just got a couple points for fun/adventure.

4.Favorite Game: Umm. We are on a mission. That is a game in itself...

5.Favorite Food: We had homemade tortillas, and they were AMAZING! The woman made them into enchilladas, and they were so good! I am still thinking about them... Yeah, judge me. I like my grains.

6.Most Challenging Thing: I am now supposed to be cutting dairy out of my diet.  That is really hard, but it is doable, and I am sure that it is only gonna make it that much more of a healthier of a diet.  Also, it is challenging to be in the same area that I was called to work in last transfer.  Sometimes when we are in the boundaries or near the boundaries of the other ward, I want to just go knock on members doors and pretend something is wrong with our car, and we just so happen to be stranded in their area.

7.Simple Pleasures: We were able to have Sister H come with us to the Doctor, and then she came out with us in our area.  She was such an awesome Member Present, and she was able to make a connection about being a mom, and never giving up on your children with the woman that we were visiting.  Sister H (member) loved Sister H (mission pres. wife), and Sister H (mp wife) has been asking how Sister H (member) is doing.  What an amazing thing to have the opportunity to have Sister H come with us.

8.Goals:Be Positive. Even when times are tough in the area, or if my stomach really really really hates me.... 

9.Biggest Smile: When Sister S and I are just laughing about dumb things, or when we people watch in our car.  There was a man that watched her back me out, and then he said, "I need a camera for this.  Watching you back her, makes my day." Umm you are so welcome that we make your day when she backs me out of our parking spot.

10.Biggest Accomplishment: I only had to do 13 U-TURNS!!! That is such a great accomplishment, because the week before I did a lot more than that... A LOT MORE!!! 

11.Favorite Scripture Story Studied: John 15:1-8.  It is about Christ being our Vine.  How important is it that we don't let our vine get cut even just a little by Satan? It is so important that we stay strong, and keep increasing our testimonies so that Satan has a harder time attacking us.

12.Favorite Quote: "Wow, that is a big bun..."-elder j "yes, that thought crossed my mind."-elder b. The reason this was so funny, is because the sister that was getting a blessing, was wearing her hair on top of her head... and the Elders didn't know where to put their hands on her head. It was so great! 

I hope that you all have a great week! I know that there are so many miracles if we just look for them! I know Heavenly Father is always aware of us! I know that he is totally aware of all the things that we are going through.  I promise you if you pray and ask you will receive an answer! I hope that you all look for the miracles in your life!!! 

Good Luck to Sister M's Little brother as he goes out on his mission on Wednesday!

Love, Sister Rietz

Someone parked in our spot so we decided to leave them a nice loving note, telling them to never do it again.

Sister N got all 4 dots on her visa waiting stuff, so she should be in Brazil in less than 4 weeks!!!! (note from the mama.  I have no idea why this picture is turned this way.  Sorry)

Happy Mother's Day

1.Funniest things done: Well we got chewed out this morning by a nice mentally challenged man.  He thought that we were trying to steal his washing machine, and so it was interesting trying to explain to him that we were just using a different one and he did not want to hear that.  So then he told us to leave, or he was going to call the Cops.  That is when it got interesting. He yelled at us, "I am trying to do my laundry! Leave me alone!" hahaha, and of course we left him alone. Then he yelled at everyone that came in, except the Elders.  I have no idea why they were spared the yelling. But then we all left while it was in the dryer.  When we came back he was still there.  He not only yelled at us, but he also yelled at this nice woman that asked him to move for a minute.  You meet the most lovely people while doing your laundry in the morning at our apartments.

2.Biggest Blessing: A GPS from the Spanish Sisters.  They were more than willing to let us borrow it, and it has been a LIFE SAVER! Although, I have done more U-turns this week, than I have my entire life.  I am gonna get a cool map, and we are gonna map up the Upland 3rd Ward.

3.Latest project: LEARN THE AREA. Enough Said. We also have a goal of finding 2 new investigators, so please pray that it can happen!

4.Most exciting events: We were able to SKYPE on Sunday with the familia! It was so great, and I can testify to everyone that our laughs are still all the same, and have not changed at all.  Although Trev, Kristin, and Carter all look so much older! Crazy how just 5 months can change the way someone looks.

5. Favorite Game: Who is Who? We are trying to learn names really quickly, and so far I have pretty much none down... So that was fun at church, and the Members were telling us who was feeding us, and so when the door opens at their houses, we will be able to put a name with a face into our memory.

6.Favorite Foods: We had Satin, which is imitation meat.  That is not my favorite, but it was still pretty good. I would not recommend eating it, unless you absolutely have to!
7.Most challenging thing: Never knowing if the Elders are giving actual people to go see, or if they are just setting us up for failure.  This is what I get for pranking them, and convincing them I was going home.  So far they have sent us to go see someone with schizophrenia, and that was such an adventure... But Tom is really cool and there are a couple Less-Actives that live there, so we considered it a blessing in disguise.
8. Simple Pleasures: Rain.  Overlooking Upland with all the lights. Technology and Seeing Carter running around their apartment. Getting the knowledge that Sister N has all 4 dots needed to get her VISA!!! WOOT-WOOT!!!

9.Goals: Learn the Area.  Use a Map more and prove to the Brother in Laws that I don't need a $150 GPS, and that a $3 map is my new BFF!

10.Biggest smile: When Sister T told us that she talked with mom, and that "your mum is a lovely lady, you are lucky to have her as a mum." and I just knew that she was 100% correct!!!

11.Biggest accomplishment: We went and got frozen yogurt with the one an only Sister V. she is this crazy psycho sister that was constantly getting chocked in the car, and we got to meet up and eat frozen yogurt with her and her new companion. It was an accomplishment, because we ate super healthy at the frozen yogurt place! One point for us on the healthy scale!!!

12: Favorite Quote: "We don't care if they have a problem with the Word of Wisdom, JUST GET THEM TO CHURCH!"- Bishop

I love you all so much, and am so grateful for all the mothers that have been in my life, but I am most grateful for my mom.  She is a wonder woman.  If you have met her, consider yourself lucky! If you haven't, let me know, and I will get you in contact with her.  She is the best woman in the world, and I am not even biased or anything! Have a great week! Till Next Week! 

XOXOXOXOXOXOSister Rietz

In the car with Sis. S

Waiting for the sunrise on a cloudy day

No sister missionaries were injured in the staging of this or the following picture. 

Missionary style Mother's Day greeting

New Area. New Beginnings. Driving a Car

1.Funniest things done: We played a joke on all the missionaries that we are serving around.  We convinced them that I was getting sent home.  The best was when an Elder found out, and he thought that it was serious, and we convinced him for 10 mins that it was really happening.  He was so confused cause there was a sister that went home awhile ago because she was sick, and he couldn't figure out that it was happening again.  It was pretty funny, but also not that funny cause there is an elder that wrecked on his bike, and got a concussion and is now going home. (not because of the concussion, but because his 2 years are finished).  Everyone in the zone told me to watch my back cause he is going to get me back, but pranks are not always allowed so we shall see.  I will keep all of you updated.

2.Biggest Blessing: Staying in Upland.  It is a weird feeling, because I am getting transferred to the ward right by the 2nd ward, but I am really grateful because I will still be able to see members at Stake things.  I also am so grateful for wardmates.  They are the best! This last week there was a nasty flu going around, and for once in the last 6 months I was not the only sick person.  Everyone got it, and there was a time when an elder and a sister were both getting sick in the bathroom at the same time.  Talk about ward mate bonding time.  Today the Elders called and sang God be with You till We Meet Again.  They are so hilarious, and we decided they are going to start a band when they go home.

3.Latest project: Learning about a new ward! I am actually really excited! It should be really good! We have no investigators, so please join Sister S and myself in praying for people to teach.  This area is what they call a dead area, and we have the goal to build it up this transfer.

4.Most exciting events: I got a new companion, and now we are in the richer part of Upland.  I am not sure how I feel about that, but I do know that this is where I am supossed to be and the Gospel is true no matter where you are at right? Sister N is staying in Upland 2nd, and I know that she will do a good job! That ward was/is so great! I gotta stop being so attached to wards.  It makes it seem like I am saying goodbye to my family all over again, but that is a plus about serving in good ole sunny California: I can come visit a lot!

5. Favorite Game: Guessing transfers.  That is always the favorite game on week 6.  Imagine it like being March Madness Brackets.  We pair people up in wards, and then we see who was closest.  I was WAY off this last time.  Going to the Upland 3rd Ward was an eye opener.

6.Favorite Foods: Campria Salad? haha, okay I don't know how to spell it... but it's tomato and then cheese, and then basil.  SO GOOD!!!! I loved it.  and now I wanna make it all the time! or Homemade Pizza, that was way good!
7.Most challenging thing: Going into an area with a new companion, and neither one of you have ever served there before.  BUT, the Lord wants us there, and we already have a game plan of what is going to happen.  So, I am not too worried, but I am worried.
8. Simple Pleasures: Getting FREE ice cream while at the Chaffey College setting up the "talk with missionaries" booth.  Seeing Sister M and Sister T! They both were at transfer meeting!!! Sister M and I are now serving around each other! She is in the other really really really rich ward and they got whitewashed in as well, so it's going to be a party for all of us!

9.Goals: Be confident Whitewashing.  Not crash the Car. Have more Faith and Trust in the Lord.

10.Biggest smile: When we were sitting in Sacrament Meeting and Sister H started doing an Ode to Me, and then mid story she switched topics and started talking about how much she loved her husband.  It was great! And really funny! Everyone was like what the heck!?

11.Biggest accomplishment: I guess when the members were telling my goodbye and everyone was sad to see me leave.  I guess that means I left a good impression on them? ahaha, okay that was selfish, I know training was really really hard but it was the stretching and the growth that I needed to be the missionary that I am now.

12: Favorite Quote: "Hey Sister Rietz-y deep down you like my mustache."-remain un-named... It was an awkward, but hilarious conversation with them.

Well I got to get going, but I love you all! I love the Gospel, and I do not love driving a car.  I hope everyone has a good mothers day! I know I will, cause 1. my mission daughter is around me, and 2. I GET TO SEE MY FAMILY!!! WOOT-WOOT!!!

My new comp, Sister S

LOVE, Sister Rietz

Last week in the ward

Wardmates

Vampires, Zone Conference, Upland Beautification Project

1.Funniest things done: This last week I met a vampire.  Her name was Mary.  She took my blood.  She was really nice.  She is going to be the person that determines my fate as a missionary.  Okay just kidding, but when she brought out the needle to take my blood, there was this little boy sitting in the chair next to me, and  his face just got white and I knew he was going to freak.  I just smiled at him, and then he just got wide-eyed, and looked like he was going to pass out.  He asked if it hurt, and I told him nope.  But I lied.  Yes, I lied to a little boy.  It hurt like the dickens, cause she had to dig.  But Mary knows what is up, and I didn't even get a big bruise.  So three cheers for Mary.

2.Biggest Blessing: Having an awesome Zone.  Everyone has been praying that I would be okay, and then the Spanish Sisters told me they fasted that I would be alright.  This Zone is amazing, and I love every member of it.  That normally doesn't happen for me, I normally have a problem with at least one missionary.  But it is not because of who they are, it is just because i have short comings.

3.Latest project: Prepare for transfers.  They are this next week, and I have no idea if I am staying, or if I am going.  I have been in Upland for 6 months almost, and that is a long time.  I could be here for longer though because of doctors, and I just became companions with Sister N.  But the Lord always has a different plan for us than what we plan.  So I am just trying to make sure that Sister N knows the area, the area book, our investigators, the 15 names list, and that I have 100% confidence in her that she can do it if I leave.

4.Most exciting events: I GOT TO SEE SISTER T!!! We had Zone Conference on Thursday, and since Rancho is her zone, and the building we were at is in Rancho she just so happened to be there.  It was great! I loved seeing her, and there may or may not have been some tears that fell from our eyes.  I also got to see Sister M! I was in heaven seeing as those are the only companions that I have had that are still out on their missions.  Sister and President H were making jokes about the 3 of us, and we told President that we know what our "transfer doctrine" (what happens at transfers) is.  He told us that when he is asked for something he does what Elder Bednar taught him.  Go the complete opposite way.  So I have a feeling Sister M, Sister T and I will never serve around each other again.  haha, but it was worth a shot telling him.

5. Favorite Game: I got in a pretty intense staring contest with this little Indian girl in the doctors office.  I lost.  She was good. Too good. She probably had glass eyes or something.  She never blinked!

6.Favorite Foods: We ate Tongan food at Zone Conference.  It was really good, but unfortunately we are not all up to eating the amounts of food that the Tongans were dishing up.
7.Most challenging thing: Working in Upland for the Upland Beautification Project.  We were spreading Mulch, and painting buildings in this housing district.  It was amazing to see the families that lived there come out and really help us.  They were so humbled that we wanted to help make their duplex look better.  I am now friends with a boy named Joey, and a girl named Denaja.  They are so cool, and we were able to spread mulch like complete champions.  They were a crack up too. They told me a white girl like me really works hard.  They seemed surprised.
8. Simple Pleasures: See above.

9.Goals: Have more faith.  Have more Compassion.

10.Biggest smile: I saw a tennis court that was not locked up! Normally the ones we pass have locks on them, but because someone forgot to lock it, I was able to connect with Trevor cause he is in Boise playing tennis.  I prayed on the court that you would do good Trev!

11.Biggest accomplishment: Not passing out on the table while getting my blood taken.

12: Favorite Quote: "You are like a mule.  A straight up mule.  Except you are white, and mules are black." -Denaja my friend who is totally awesome!

I love you all, and am so stoked to skype on the 10th! I hope everyone had a (not sure what she meant to put.  The sentence stops short at "a". - The Mama)

Tennis court love<3

No Habla Espanol. Spudwood Derby. The "RITZ" area

1.Funniest things: This last week I was with one of the Hermanas for a day.  It was so much fun, and I loved getting to know her better.  Her companion was really sick, and Hermana W normally drives, and Hermana Z is not allowed to drive mission cars, so they needed a driver.  I was the only one who was in the area who was not already in a car that could drive... So I was Hermana Z's driver for the day.  I had no idea what was being said at dinner, in an of the lessons, or when she was talking on the phone but I do know that there is a special spirit with those people.  I know there are so many humble people they are working with.  But none of this is funny, so let me get back to what I was saying... So we were eating dinner with Hermana A, (pronounced like Ursula) and she told me over and over to just leave these dishes in the sink, and I had NO IDEA WHAT SHE WAS SAYING TO ME! I just continued washing the dish, and the Elders thought it was hilarious, so they just let me continue washing the dish.  Then after that episode I was standing off to the side out of the way, and she apparently told me to sit down.  But remember NO HABLA ESPANOL! and I just stood there.  She told me over and over, but I didn't know she was talking to me.  The Elders realized that she was going to be getting mad, and they told me over and over really really fast to sit down.  I sat down, just as she in English said, "SIT DOWN!" she did raise her voice, but now we are friends, and she even kissed me on the cheek when we were leaving.  Hermana Z didn't even realize I was getting in trouble because she was in the kitchen right by the stove cooking Chilerelleno.  It made for a good adventure.  It was just really funny, because I had NO IDEA WHAT THE WOMAN WAS YELLING AT ME ABOUT!!!

2.Biggest Blessing: This last week I went to the Doctors, and we are now on the road to figuring out what is wrong with me.  Fingers crossed my medicine just needs to be changed, and then it will all be fixed.  That would be the best case scenario.  But Sister H called Mom, and they were able to figure out some things.  Pray the Blood Tests show us things that will help them know what is wrong with me!  (Note from the mama - Sister Rietz has been sick off and on for several months.  Hopefully it will be a quick solution.  I'm sure she feels the prayers you give in her behalf.)

3.Latest project: On Saturday we were able to help a Non-member family move.  They were such a cool family, and they really needed the help.  They were able to get so much done, and they might even want to start meeting with us.  They just moved into Upland, and their son is going to be playing basketball for some Christian College, and he wants to play with our Young Men when they play on Thursday Nights.  I hope that all can go well with them! 

4.Most exciting events: Well I was in 3 different areas this week. I worked in the "Rietzy Rich" area, and I am so grateful I don't serve in that area.  Haha, it was just not what I am used to. I loved being in the Spanish Branch for 2 days! It was so great, and I am catching myself saying Hermana, and Gracias, and just other phrases she taught me.  I love it! I would love to serve in a Spanish Area, but I am really grateful I can teach in my native language.

5. Favorite Game: SPUDWOOD DERBY! Our ward had an activity and they gave everyone potatoes, and you had to carve them into cars, and put wheels on them, and race them down the tracks.  It was so fun, and we had the best team name, and all the members laughed when they called, "Team Sisters are better than Elders, against the Elders." It was so great, and the kids loved it!

6.Favorite Foods: Chilerelleno! It was this deep fried chili with cream cheese in it.  SO GOOD!
7.Most challenging thing: Setting up a 10 man tent when the two sisters are not tall.  We had to bring out chairs, and stand on them.  The member just wanted to see what his tent looked like.  It was an adventure for sure!!!
8. Simple Pleasures: I was able to talk with Sister H a lot this week! She is such an amazing woman, and she reminds me a lot of Captain Michele. ;) She is a great Mission Mom.

9.Goals: Help our New Investigator Mike understand that there is such thing as Faith.  He feels like there is no such thing.  That it only matters about science and proof and 100% knowledge.

10.Biggest smile: When Candy was at the lesson with Mike, and her testimony was born in a way that he didn't realize that is what she was doing.  She was able to answer his questions, with asking him questions.  It was awesome to see that happening.  I am going to be learning so much from her!

11.Biggest accomplishment: I think that we were able to do over 15 hours of service for people this week! It was awesome! I love Service!

12: Favorite Quote: "If you don't eat my tortillas, you will never learn Spanish"- Hermana A.  I guess I am never learning Spanish! 

I love you all! 

Have a great week!!!!!!
~Sister Rietz

Watch out, Sister Cop Rietz has got some authority... to set up appointments.

In the "Ritzy Rich Area" and posing like the door man.

We beat the Elders in the Spudwood Derby!!!