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)

Baptism. Hula-Hoops. Trainer Call. Wait WHAT?!

1.Funniest things done: It probably was when we were trying to take pictures with the members, and with Candy.  I realized that my camera must think I am Asian, because after every picture, it would ask if someone blinked, and it would always be on my face. Or the funniest thing might be after I got the call that I was going to be training a new missionary, and I may or may not have started crying.  I was so scared, nervous, and kinda in shock about what just happened.  I think Sister T was like what the heck is wrong with you.  When the caller id came up, I saw it was the mission nurses number, so I didn't think anything of it, until I heard that it was the AP's voice.  Then I was like, "wait what?!" "who is this!?" Then I found out I was staying, and I knew with how awesome this ward is, and everything that I would be okay.  And to make it better my new ward mate is going to be Elder R who was my ward mate in Hesperia! It's gonna be a good transfer.

2.Biggest Blessing: I get to be with Sister M for the next two days! I am so excited, and we have already talked a whole bunch! I am so excited to be back with my Mission Momma. Since we are both going to be training, we will be able to see each other at the 4 week meeting too, so I get to see her more and more before she "dies" and goes home in July.  On a mission, I feel like you never know when you are going to see someone again! It's crazy stuff!  Also, seeing Candy get Baptized.  I am so happy I was able to watch her change, and become the awesome member that she is.  

3.Latest project: I am going to be training a new missionary.  I am really nervous and worried that I am going to mess this missionary up, but everyone I have talked with tells me they have confidence that I will be okay.  I think I will be okay, but I am not so sure about my new Greenie.  If anyone has advice on training, LET ME KNOW!  Haha, I am all for advice right now.

4.Most exciting events: Candy was baptized! The Spirit in the Chapel was so STRONG! I thought we could have cut it with a knife.  We showed two videos "Because of Him" and "Christ-like Attributes" and I know that they really brought the Spirit into the room.  Candy didn't want us using notes during our talks, so I took up my scriptures, and my planner, and prayed the Spirit would be able to help me out.  It must have sounded okay, because people told me good job.  Haha, but they also could have just been being nice.  I am seriously just so happy for her. She has built my testimony up so much, and I know that whatever calling she gets, she will just completely rock at it.  I hope every missionary has someone in their mission who is like a Candy.  She read and prayed, and really applied the principles she was taught.  She even got us to really rely on Heavenly Father, and follow the Spirit when we were teaching her.  I have known her for 3 months, and she has helped me in more ways than she even knows.  Seriously.  She doesn't even realize the impact she has had on me and Sister T.

5. Favorite Game: Trying to guess what everyone's "transfer doctrine" is going to be.  We tried to figure out who was leaving, and who would be staying, and I have to say Sister T is pretty good at it.  We both guessed who the new Ap was going to be though.

6.Favorite Foods: We had homemade Indian food on Monday.  It was so good, and Sister S told us she would teach us how to make the Butter Chicken.  I could have eaten it all day long.  Sister T and I have had more diverse food here in Upland, than I think anywhere else.  Us Idaho girls are experiencing the world out here in California!
7.Most challenging thing: Having Patience.  I am really wanting to work on that this transfer.  I guess Heavenly Father knows I can learn that with being a trainer.  I think also a challenging thing is just change.  Changing companions, and who we are carpooling with, and all that fun stuff. President just said today, that missions keep us out of our comfort zones.  That is seriously so true!
8. Simple Pleasures: Hula Hooping with a 3 year old.  Just laying in bed talking with Sister T at night.  Feeling 100% exhausted after being out all day.  Reading letters from friends, and family.  Wearing Mustaches in District meeting, because it is green and it was St. Patty's Day. Driving a car last night, and realizing why I love biking so much.  Knowing the Lord, and President H trust me teaching a new missionary.  Seeing Candy so happy after her baptism.  Listening to President and Sister H's reactions when Candy connected the lesson with Jacob 5.  

9.Goals: Learn as much as I can from my new companion.  Find lots of people to teach this transfer.

10.Biggest smile: Seeing Candy got baptized.  It was the best moment of my mission I think so far.  

11.Biggest accomplishment: Staying on Bike for one more transfer.  I am over 1400 miles, and every 100 miles I just think about all the places I have gone, and how far I have come.  (literally)

12: Favorite Quote: "HOLD STILL! JUST CHILL!"- Candy when I was getting my nails painted. 

Have a great week! 

Love, Sister Rietz

Hula hoop girls

I was complaining about being thirsty and we came upon this broken pipe.  Tender mercies of the Lord.

Sis. T, Candy and Me right before the baptism.

You won't be surprised that I think this is hilarious!!

A great picture of a great companionship

To one and all!!!

Another one bites the dust...(or gets a cold)

1.Funniest things done: For the last little bit, Sister T has been bragging about not getting sick, and then this last week she got hit with a cold! I couldn't help but laugh.  She said that all the colds, and flu that I have had has finally torn her immune system down.  She is really funny when she is sick, and she told me that I was a brat.  I was like what, and then she just went back to sleep.  Sister T on Nyquil is an adventure for all of us.

2.Biggest Blessing: Even though Sister T was sick, I was able to go out with one of the 3rd Sisters, because her companion was sick as well! It was sad that they were both sick, but it needed to happen so that we could go on Exchanges.  We didn't really see a whole lot of people, but there were some that we saw and it was a blessing to still be able to work.

3.Latest project: Finding.  We are really struggling finding more people to teach, but we have faith that we will find because EVERY missionary fasted, and members joined in to find, teach and baptize.  I know we will see the fruits of our labors eventually.  All in Heavenly Fathers timing right?

4.Most exciting events: When I was on exchanges, I was able to go to Mount Baldy.  It is in the 3rd Sisters area, and that is where their dinner was, so up the Mountain we went.  I realized how much I am used to the warm weather, because it was 67,3 degrees outside, and I was freezing! It was so bad! Haha, guess I better love the warm weather while I can.  November is going to be coming faster than we all expect. Also, Candy's Baptism is this Saturday, and everyone is so pumped! She is so ready.

5. Favorite Game: Chasing Lizards on the Sidewalk with our bikes.

6.Favorite Foods: Broiled Veggies, with olive oil and garlic salt on them.  They are so good! Or the guacamole that we ate at Candy's house when we went over there for dinner with Alex, and Candy's momma.
7.Most challenging thing: Getting the Cold that Sister T has.  Companions that are with each other 24/7 are bound to get sick.
8. Simple Pleasures: Getting texts from other missionaries about their miracles, and how they are experiencing the same things we are, but just slightly differently.

9.Goals: Have more patience with those around me.  I seem to get really annoyed with others, especially other missionaries so that is what I am working on right now.

10.Biggest smile: Getting little notes from Mom with the battery that she sent me.  Also big smile when I got my camera working again! The Lord answers all our prayers, even the ones that we think are not super important.

11.Biggest accomplishment: Biking with Colds.  That is one of the biggest accomplishments I have seen in a long time... and I am 8.2 miles away from hitting 1,400 miles on my bike.  Guess we will see what happens with transfers, and if I can stay on bike! I really hope that I can stay on bike! That would be so awesome!!!

12: Favorite Quote: "You are such a BRAT!"- Sister T "umm excuse me..."-Sister Rietz.  The next day: "you little jerk."-Sister T "what? hahaha"-Sister Rietz

This was when she was on Nyquil.  It was hilarious!  She doesn't remember saying this, and she has been feeling really bad.  But I only use it against her a little bit. ;)

Candy is getting baptized this week, and I am so excited.  Words can really not describe how much she has helped me, and how I have seen myself grow from teaching her.  She is definitely a role model for me, and I know that she will be a really strong member of the Church.  She once said that she had a corner suite in the building in Lehi's Dream.  But now I see her holding fast to the Rod, and never letting go.  She is such an example to everyone she meets, and she doesn't even realize it.

Whelp, guess we will see where I am next week! Love, Sister Rietz

Where has the time gone? 9 months

Well family.  It is here.  The "half-way point".  The "glass half full/half empty".  The "all is downhill" from here.  The "hump".  I am now considered an OLD missionary! If anyone is wondering, I have loved my mission this far, and I love that it is not over.  I am so grateful that I can be out here, and everyday I learn more and more why I was called to this mission at this time.  So many things happened this week, and I am not sure I have enough time or the memory to recall all that happened.

We had times this week where we knew Heavenly Father was there, really looking out for us.  There is some sort of cold/flu going around the mission, and I got it. Again.  I swear I have the most useless immune system in the world.  I feel like every other week I am sick.  But luckily, I have a quick recovery time.  We would only be able to work about half a day before we would have to come home because I couldn't really talk, and I was getting lightheaded.  So those tender moments where we were able to work, we knew were answers to our Prayers. 

1.Funniest things done: I went on Exchanges, and I was with a Tongan Sister, and she took us to a Tongan Family in their ward, and forgot to mention to me all the rules about eating food that is offered to us.  So we are in this house, and they offer me an ice cream bar. It was hot outside, so I took it.  Well then the Mom found some cake.  Not just one cake, but TWO! and gave them to us.  I declined them, and all the kids got quiet, and Sister V told me to just take it.  The Mom said something in Tongan, and Sister V told her that we would have some cake.  The Dad asked if we were hungry, and we said no.  But apparently No is like a bad word or something, because he told the boys to get us food. I still have SO much leftovers, and I am scared that they are going to go bad.  Moral of the Story: Don't tell Tongan families that you don't want food, cause they won't listen to you, and you end up offending them.  By the end though I would consider them friends, and they told me when I come back after the mission to come to their house, and they will feed me till I have to be rolled out of the house.

2.Biggest Blessing: We had a big scare with Candy.  We had a long talk with her, and she was SO close to not being able to be baptized but we talked her out of it.  And now she is 100% on tract to being baptized.  She got a dress from the "I" family, and we are going to the T family tonight so that she can hem it.  I also got a blessing on Tuesday, and the Elder said that I would be healed through out the night, and then the next morning, I felt so much better, and we were able to go out and work for a little bit.  Everyday this would happen over and over, until I was 100%  on Sunday.  The power of the Priesthood is real, and it is so awesome.  I love it.

3.Latest project:  Finding activity.  We are trying to find more people to teach, and on March 9th we are doing a mission wide fast. We are hoping to get all the members of Ward Council and Members in the Ward to join.  President said, "Together we will call upon the powers of heaven to strengthen and unite us as missionaries and members. He will increase our faith in His purpose to "Hasten His Work" and help our Heavenly Father "bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man."  I am so excited, and I know that Fasting works. See number 4.

4.Most exciting events: Candy fasted by herself! She had a really rough week, and she fasted for strength.  She texted and told us that fasting worked, and that she felt tons better and received the strength that she needed to get through all the things people were saying to her about how she was going to fail as a Mormon.  But joke is on them, cause she is the best, and she will be the BEST member ever.

5. Favorite Game: Playing hide and go seek with Hannah and Nicole.  It always is fun, and so much laughter occurs.

6.Favorite Foods: Tacos and Homemade Guacamole. and REAL Chinese food for Chinese New Year. Dong-she-fats-tsoy. or something like that, means Happy New Year.
7.Most challenging thing: Knowing that no matter how hard you try those you are working with are still being attacked by Satan.  Prayers are the only thing that we can do sometimes, but prayer works.
8. Simple Pleasures: RAIN! It rained a lot, and flooded a little, so we walked! And then we got soaked! see pictures below.

9.Goals: Have the next 9 months of my mission the best they can be.  My goal is to allow Heavenly Father shape me into the person that He wants me to be. That would be the best!
10.Biggest smile: I got a blessing because the cold/flu that I had, knocked me off my feet and we didn't have the time for me to be sick.  I was sleeping and Sister T came in and woke me up to tell me that they were there to give me a blessing.  Well normally when someone gets a blessing there will be 2 elders, and then 2 other sisters.  But not this time, I walked out of the bathroom, and there were 4 elders- the zone leaders and the AP's.  Talk about awkward. Cause I couldn't really talk, and I had such a bad headache that it hurt to open my eyes, so I just sat there with my eyes closed.  The looks on their faces when I walked out was priceless.  I was not in missionary clothes, and I looked like a hobo.  No seriously everyone, it was bad! Good thing that I don't really care what I look like to other people, at least on the mission. haha, 

11.Biggest accomplishment: REACHING 9 MONTHS! Woot-Woot!

12: Favorite Quote: "no. you must eat my food.  That is what the rule is, and you are going to do it." -Tongan Mother

I keep thinking about something I have said a lot but really, how lucky we are to be missionaries.  How lucky I am to be serving in California. How lucky we all are to be able to share the Gospel with all those around us.

I know this church is true.  I know that Thomas S. Monson is leading and guiding us, and I know that Jesus Christ is our Savior, and knows exactly what we are feeling at all times.  I know that the adversary is out there, but that we can beat him.  It is not the end when he starts influencing us.  It only means that Heavenly Father knows that we can handle it.  I love Heavenly Father  and Jesus Christ.  I love the Upland ward I am serving in.  I love all of you, and pray that you are all doing well!  Hey Kristin and Trevor! GOOD LUCK AT TENNIS! YOU WILL DO AWESOME!  I BELIEVE IN YOU!

Talk to you all next week! XOXOXO

Love, Sister Amber Rietz

Me with Sis. V

No words can describe...

Not here either!

A really wet day!

Service, Ice Cream, Rejection and more Rejection!!

HAPPY 2015!!!

Contrary to what the subject is of this email, it was a really good week.  We had a couple referrals that we were told would be solid, and when we went there, they pretty much did all they could to ignore us.  That was the first rejection.  The second was when we were trying to see a Recent Convert (you know who Sis. C2...).  She was home, but pretended to be gone.  Well I told Sister T that we were going to knock for 5 mins.  Which we did.  It was unsuccessful but later we saw her going back into her apartment.  I am telling you family, I feel like a stalker sometimes.  It is bad, cause I know people's cars, work schedules, neighbors, their daily and weekly activites... Yeah, ultimate stalker. ANYWAYS, we were talking with a Less-Active that was out walking, and so we went and sat on these blocks and was talking with Sister B, and then we see Marie.  At this point, I know that she is in there for sure, and we go to the door, and knock and knock and knock.  No answer. 

Then we hear super loud music coming from the other side of the Apartment.  I figured she was trying to block us out, and so we would wait till there was a break in the music, and then we would knock.  Finally someone was like, Marie someone will not stop knocking.  She came to the door, and asked who it was.  We told her, and then she told us that she couldn't let us in because the cat was sick.  I said, the cat is sick? She told me, yes and that she was sick as well.  I knew that she was lying to us, and I was so mad! I was like what the heck, you are totally fine.  It was the day of New Years Eve, and I am convinced that she was just starting her celebrating a little early.  Sister Tand I are going to try her every single day.  Pray that we can actually get in with her.

But there are always miracles, especially when there is something that is really hard.  The miracle that proceeded forth after this rejection, was that we were able to see some Less-Actives that never let missionaries in, unless they call first.  Well, we didn't call, but they still let us in! We told them that we were new to the area, and didn't know that we needed to call first.  I may or may not have forgotten that we were to call.  But they let us in, and now Brother and Sister K want us to come over every week! That was such a miracle, and we were able to teach them the first part of the Restoration.  I think that I am going to be like her when I get old, only active.  If she gets bored of what we are talking about, she would interrupt, and then talk about what she wanted to talk about.  That was a hard thing to realize I am going to be like that, cause I do the same thing!!! But I will work on it, so that I am not like that when I get old, guess we will see if I change or not!  The ward was surprised that we got in, with out having a prior appointment.  It felt good in Ward Council to have them all recognize the work that we are doing.

So another cool thing that happened.  We were walking to dinner the other night, and I got us lost.  I got us lost on the South Side of the Railroad tracks, and I was freaking out inside.  I didn't know where the street was that we were looking for, and I couldn't find it on the map.  It was really frustrating, and the people that we tried calling to help us figure out where to go didn't answer.  I was starting to get worried, because the South side is not the safest all the time.  But the Lord was able to help us, and I know that he was able to help me stay calm on the outside until a member called us back.  I was so worried, till the member was able to lead us to where we needed to go.  We got to dinner safely, and we haven't gotten lost since.  It was an accomplishment I think.  I love this ward, and I have had more moments where the Lord has really helped us. 

The last two that we had are probably my favorite.  We were walking home one night, and as we are about to walk up the stairs to get towards our apartment, we see this big group of people that are sitting there, and I knew that we should not walk past them up the stairs, and the Spirit was telling us to keep going.  They were doing drugs, and you could smell it a lot.  Well I told Sister T that we would just walk to the next gate, and we would be fine.  Until I realized that I didn't have the gate opener with me.  We decided that we would walk up the street, and see if there was another entrance to the Apartment Complex.  There wasn't.  We were back to square one.  I was really worried, and knew that we needed to get inside our apartment, but I didn't know how.  We were sitting on this rock ledge, away from the group of kids, thinking of who we could call to come open the gate.  We knew the Hermana's weren't home yet, and Dana our neighbor was out of town.  So we both were praying about what to do.  Well guess what everyone!!! THE GATE OPENED!!! We both looked at each other, and knew that we needed to get in asap! So we did.  We looked to see if there was a car going into the complex, or if one was going out.  There was no car.  I realized that the Lord had answered our prayer.  I was so excited!!! When we got in the apartment, we both prayed for thanks that we were kept safe, and that the gate opened.  We watched the gate for a couple minutes, cause you can see it from our apartment, and no car came in while the gate was open.  We really were so blessed, and I know that Heaven;y Father answers prayers in all different ways.  How great is He?? SO GREAT!

The last miracle that occurred was that our Investigator Candy came to church! and she stayed all 3 hours! She even fasted! She heard us mention that it was fast Sunday, and after church she told us that she was fasting from food, but that she needed her coffee that morning.  It was so awesome, because we have only taught her The Restoration, and The Gospel of Jesus Christ.  Both of the lessons were awesome.  I learned so much from her! She really wants to do the right thing, and she has read 3/4th of the Book of Mormon.  She liked church, and we have a lesson with her this week.  She also took us to a really good hole in the wall, Mexican Restaurant.  She did order for us, and I am so glad that she did.  I got 2 Sopes.  They are like thick tortilla's and have spicy pork, lettuce, a powdered cheese, and tomato on them.  It was so good!  I love Candy, and if you all want to pray that she will receive an answer about if she should be baptized or not, that would be great! Thanks!

I love Sister T, and she and I are getting along really well! I have learned so much from her, and I am learning a lot about myself too.  I am learning that I get frustrated a lot about silly things, but that the Lord ALWAYS knows why we can't meet with certain people, or why we get lost and then meet certain people.  I love this work, and would not want to be doing anything but this right now.  I love helping people, and being a representative of Jesus Christ.  All of you keep being awesome, and I will talk with you next week!!!

Love,

Sister Rietz

There is a gang here, and their initials are CTR

Sister T and me at the door we knocked at for 5 minutes

There was a truck that had snow on it!

Trials and Tribulations Always Lead to Miracles

MTC Companion Reunion

I'm walking on the edge of darkness

There is beauty all around - even in the desert!

Leaving the mission for a little field trip.  (Don't worry, we got permission)

No car for the Trunk or Treat?  No problem.  We just made our own.

We got bored while we waited for the baptismal font to fill up...

...for this baptism.  These are all the missionaries who taught this new sister.  (Sister E is brand new to the area and two elders are missing, though.)

Me with the Bacon girls

Sister C with her companion, me and Sister E

Hello Family! Friends! And all you other random citizens! 

Sister H and I found these "antelope antlers" out in the desert

Trials and Tribulations Always Lead to Miracles

Although I have had a hard time with this concept I know that it is true.  I know the Lord gives us really really really hard things where we want to give up, and go home, but then there will be a tender mercy, and I want to hit myself for thinking God left me.  He will never leave us.  We might leave him, and forget how much he loves us, but he will NEVER forget us.  I love the Gospel.  I love that I have this opportunity to share it with others.  I love that I have the needed support from my family, and the family that I have gotten here in this ward in Hesperia.  Thanks for all the letters of encouragement, and love that I got this week.  I really needed them.

Alright, now to the cool part of the week.  I was not on a bike for a WHOLE DAY! and I hated it.  The day was great, but I hated being in a cat.  haha, awkward, meant car.  But it was nice not having to use a ton of energy to get from one place to another, but there were so many people that we could have talked with, but didn't because it would be kinda awkward to pull a car over just to talk with someone... So, we just drove on by.  I really was grateful that I was able to get a break from being on bikes, but I really missed Gideon Moroni.  It was nice to be reunited with him.  I also learned a lot from Sister H.  She is such a great Sister Missionary.  I really could tell that she was in the work 100%.  It was nice to be with her for a day, and to get to know her better.

1.Funniest things done: While I was on exchanges, Sister H and I came across this pack of dogs... They surrounded the car, and we literally could not go anywhere.  Never fear, because we were in a truck. But they wouldn't move, and Sister H didn't want to run them over.  We would start to move forward, and then they would surround us again, causing us to be stuck.  It was pretty funny, because we were both kinda laughing, but kinda scared we were going to kill a dog.  We thought they were gone, so she started to go, and then we hear them barking, and we were like a yard or two away from hitting them.  We finally got them to leave us alone, and that is how I was surrounded by a pack of dogs that were on crack.

2.Biggest Blessing: SETTING TWO BAPTISMAL DATES WITH OUR INVESTIGATORS! December 20th, better come quick.  It was actually a really cool experience.  We were praying about what date to set, and when Sister E and I were both talking, we both got the answer that December 20th, was the day the Lord knows they will be ready.  I am so excited, and we know it is going to be hard, but that it will all be worth it in the end.
3.Latest project:  Trying to focus on having the Members help us with Missionary Work. Sister M and I didn't really rely on them that much, but we have been asked by President H to really work with them, so that is what Sister E and I are really focusing on.

4.Most exciting events: Setting that Baptismal Dates. Samantha, the Elder's Investigator, but she fed us ALL the time, so I have a huge amount of love for her. I got to see Sister P (MTC comp), Sister M (trainer), and Sister S (moon's trainer) at Samantha's Baptism.  It was awesome! We left the Mission.  Yup, I am a rebel.  We actually had to receive all this permission from people, and I think from Salt Lake as well, but we had to go to the Kaiser Hospital for Sister E. (She is okay)  We had our Ward Halloween Party/Trunk or Treat.  The Elders and us, were the "official" Chili Cook-Off Judges.  It was grand.  

5.Favorite game: With Sister H: Who can make the weirdest faces while eating Jelly Beans.  She is an overall champion at it.
6.Favorite Foods: Homemade Tacos.  Homemade Tortillas.  Yeah, it is SOOO good.  I know why the Lord didn't send me to a Hispanic Cultured Mission: I WOULD ONLY EAT! No missionary work would happen, unless REAL Mexican food was there.
7.Most challenging thing:  Trying to figure out why the Lord allows bad things to happen to good people.  I have yet to figure this one out, but I know the Lord has a plan.  There were a lot of people that had bad things happen to them this week, and they are all good people.  
8. Simple Pleasures:When people recognize us as Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and not just "Mormon Missionaries".
9.Goals: Be more Positive when things seem to be spiraling out of control.  That should help to have a better week.
10.Biggest smile: When I saw two pieces of bacon walking around the Ward Halloween Party, and thought of Kristin and Addie, and their odd obsession with Bacon.  I got a picture with them in your honor.  They got them from Amazon.  You should look into getting them.
11.Biggest accomplishment:  Getting Two Member Present Lessons, the day of the lessons.  The members that we had planned on bringing bailed, but our ward is awesome.  They really stepped up, and helped us out.  

12. Worst food: Her mom deleted this in case someone's feelings might get hurt.
13. Amount of Miles Biked: 59 Miles.  We really biked a lot.  I am so close to reaching 1000 miles on that bike. Speaking of biking, do I have a funny story for you all.  See story later.

14: Favorite Quote: "You really need to get a car rack for the back of your bikes."- Sister C.  We were talking about how we could use a car to get to our area, and then we would be 100% fine with just biking all day.  Sister C found the most "perfect" solution, and then after she told us, we all busted up laughing.  It was great.

Okay, so that was the week in review.  A lot more happened, but never fear, because I have some time left before I gotta get off. 

CRAZY AWESOME BIKE STORY: Okay, so the other night we are biking home.  There is a LOT of sand randomly in the road.  If you are not paying attention, your back wheel or your front wheel will go crazy, and you will end up almost crashing... Well... Bike crash number two happened this week.  It was pretty hilarious.  This is what happened.... 

We were biking along in the dark.  We have lights, cause it is the law, and we are law abiding citizens here in Hesperia.  So the light informs me of a patch of  sand in the road... I had the phone in one hand and was going to call the Elders, for something about the ward, so we are going along and I hit this patch of sand, right when I hear a DEEP voice, "Hello" it was the Elders.  And it scared me to death! I didn't realize that it had started to call them.  I had only one hand on the handlebars, and when the sand and my tires hit each other, and I got all startled from the voice on the phone it went a little crazy... I tried to brake but didn't want to use the front ones, cause I didn't want to fly over the handlebars, so being the "smart" me that I am, I crossed over, and tried to use the back brakes... yeah, not smart... I went to the left, hit a root of a tree, and proceeded to slide in the sand.  ALL WHILE LAUGHING SOOO HARD! I didn't get hurt, except for a small scratch on my leg.  I quickly hung up, and laid there dying of laughter.  It was great.  Gideon Moroni has some sand in the gear changer on the handle bars, but nothing a little compressed air won't change.  Yeah, so add that to my list of bike wrecks, and mission awkwardness.  We called the Elders later, and they thought we were trying to be funny, and then realized that I had wrecked, and then they didn't believe I was fine, but I totally was 100% fine.

I feel like a lot of really crazy things happened this week, and I know that I probably missed a ton of them, but I will write them to you if I remember.  Yeah, all depends if I remember.

The Church is true.  The Prophet is still called of God.  The Book of Mormon is for us today.  Yeah, all of that is still true my friends.

I love you all so much! I am doing the best I can, but it gets hard, so pray for us here in Arrowhead.  We need all the prayers we can get.

Peace and blessings

Birthday dinner take 2

I have really been wondering why my leg had to be cut. I know that there had to be a reason, so one night I prayed and asked why it happened. Then on Sunday, I received my answer. There was a man that we met in Walmart, while we were waiting for my antibiotic for the infection in my leg. He was talking with us, while he and his wife were waiting for their medicine as well. They asked us if we were Mormon missionaries, and we told them that we were. They informed us, that she was less-active, and that he was not a member, but had thought about joining. We got their information, and gave it to the Santa-Fe Ward. Now, fast-forward to Saturday's baptism in the Santa-Fe ward. The man that got baptized was the same man that Sister M and I had met while waiting for my medicine. I know that this was an answer to my prayer, and that there really was a reason that my leg was cut. Although, it took a long time for me to realize why it had to happen, it all makes sense now.  There were so many times that I was mad about my leg, but now that I know Bro. F was that man, it really makes it all more worth it.  That was the Peace and Blessing that I got this week. 

1.Funniest things done: We were at a relief society thing, and I almost fell asleep, and then it was really awkward, because a bunch of people saw me, and they were all saying it was because we are on bikes.  It was just because it was like 8:30, and I am used to going to bed like an hour after that, and my stomach was full of amazingly delicious food.  I was super tired, and I just wanted to sleep.

2.Biggest Blessing:  We finally were able to get a hold of a potential investigator that we had been trying to visit for many nights.  She is really a solid investigator, and I know that she will get baptized, cause she was going to, but got scared cause a Jehovah Witness told her that she was going to burn in Hell, if she joined the Mormon Church.  Ella backed out, and it took from 2003 to now, so 11 YEARS to finally decide to meet with missionaries again.  It was really a cool thing to witness.  The spirit was so strong in that lesson.
3.Latest project: Getting to know my new companion.  It is weird to think you know everything about someone, and then they surprise you, and you just are like WOOOAAH! That threw me for a loop! ahah, yeah, that has happened a lot this week.
4.Most exciting events: I turned 20 years old this week.  I got 2 packages and I love everything that is in it.  I really loved the coat, and I have found random reasons to wear it around the apartment.
5.Favorite game: UMMM.... Yeah, I am not sure.  Probably just the mental game of "I think I can", everyday when we are biking up to our area.  
6.Favorite Foods: The Ice Cream that people keep bringing us for my birthday.  It is magically wonderful, and I really am so grateful for all those that have been bringing it to me.
7.Most challenging thing: Hearing the news that one of my favorite less actives was in the Hospital, and that the chance of her being okay, is slim.  I am praying really hard that all goes well with her.  There is also another less-active that we visit, and her husband was hit by a car while crossing the street.  The chance of him surviving is looking not well either.
8. Simple Pleasures: On a happier note, I am feeling better.  I was slightly sick on my birthday.  I was running a fever, and continually was getting the chills, and they were terrible.  But, the Elders gave me a blessing, and in the blessing the Lord told me it was ok to rest, and that I need to rest.  I had been feeling like a terrible missionary because I was down for the count, and then when I heard that, I knew that the Lord really knew that I needed to hear that, in order to feel like I was being an okay missionary, even though we hadn't stayed in the area long that day.  Blessings WORK PEOPLE! AND they bring Peace as well! PEACE AND BLESSINGS!
9.Goals: Get a new investigator, and then get them on the path to return to live with Heavenly Father again.
10.Biggest smile: Honestly, there were so many things this week that brought a smile to my face.  So many wonderful, precious moments that made me so glad to be a missionary, and living in the moment. People say their missions go super fast, and that we need to cherish EVERY moment.  And I know that there are so many things that I need to recognize as blessings, and not just coincidences.  
11.Biggest accomplishment: Surviving the first week, and realizing that I know more about the area than I thought I knew.
12. Worst Food: We had some crazy food this week.  We had sour cream enchiladas.  No enchilada should just have sour cream, onion, and cheese in it.  I thought I was gonna get super sick.
13. Amount of Miles Biked: 41 miles biked.  We are starting this transfer off in a good start.  I know that it will be a struggle, but the Lord promises us strength, and that he will give us the strength that we need to bike in our area.  

14: Favorite Quote: Sister J: "What kind of missionary jumps in the water?" (Referring to Peter answering the Savior when he invited him to come follow him) Me: "A disobedient missionary." *laughter errupts*

Well, we are pressed for time, because we only get an hour to email.  I love you all so much! Keep being awesome.  There is great things in store for all of you!