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.

Don't pray for trials

1.Funniest things done:  Sister M (not my old companion) prayed that we would have trials in our lives.  After she said that, I was thinking I do not need any more trials.  But Heavenly Father thought otherwise.  This past week one of my favorite Less-Actives was in the ICU, and she was going downhill FAST!!! Her family all flew in, and I was freaking out.  We went and visited her, and she was not all there.  It was sad, and she didn't even know that we were there to see her.  I wanted to cry, but couldn't cause everyone thinks Sister Missionaries cry over every little thing.  So I didn't cry.  I cried later, but only Sister E saw.  Then the next day, we get a text from another less-active.  " I can't meet today, I am going to Urgent Care. Talk to you later." She didn't respond to us for a LONG time.  She has a fungal infection in her face, and has to get it removed.  That night, I got really sick, had a fever, chills, stuffy nose, and a killer headache... It was rough.  Then the rest of the week was just not very good.  SO the MORAL OF THE STORY: Don't pray for challenges.... 

2.Biggest Blessing: Knowing that I have a family back home, who loves me, and is supporting me through everything.  I don't know how many miles there are between us, but heck emails and letters make it seem like you all are right next door.  This has been a hard transfer, but guess what! It is already week 3, and we are chugging right along.
3.Latest project: Finding New People to Teach.  I hate tracting, but I know it works, so there will be many a hours spent tracting this week.

4.Most exciting events: Samantha is GETTING BAPTIZED TONIGHT!!! She isn't our investigator.  She was taught by the elders, but the last couple lessons the Elders had us come teach.  I am so excited for her, because she has had a hard year.  She had some challenges, and no one believed that she could overcome them, but she did.  She is so excited.  There will be pictures next week.
5.Favorite game: Jump-rope.  I am starting to get really good.  It is finally starting to get easier, and I am planning on learning how to double-dutch.  I will let you know how that goes.  The girls that we jump rope with, are like 9 and 6.  They are really good.  So there will always be a jump-rope competition on Thursdays on C St. at 4:30.  You can bet on it, that we will be there.
6.Favorite Foods: Macaroni and Cheese.  It was SOO Good.  And then we had these really yummy sandwiches.  They were reallllly GOOD!
7.Most challenging thing:  Really, this is gonna be stupid, but being okay with being sick.  I hate being sick as a missionary.  People freak out, and then I am telling them I am fine, but then everyone and their baby mama hear about it, and get all worried.  It really isn't that big of a deal people! I get colds ALL the time!
8. Simple Pleasures:  Getting late birthday cards, and then reading all the silly things that are inside them.  It caused many laughs, and it was much needed.
9.Goals: See all the people that we haven't been able to get in with, and to help our ward with missionary work.
10.Biggest smile:  Seeing Chuck and Irene come to church.  They both have dementia, and it was a miracle that they could come to church.  Irene had on one slipper, one normal shoe, crazy make-up.  Chuck came with his shirt not all the way buttoned, his pants unzipped, and his cane for the day was a broom.  It was awesome.  They came and partook of the sacrament, and they loved church.  They could only last until after sacrament meeting, but no worries.
11.Biggest accomplishment: Not getting Ebola.  I have had a cold/cough all week, and at church someone wanted to start the rumor that I had Ebola... Yeah, that was an interesting one to have to explain.

12. Worst Food:We had some pretty interesting Mexican soup.  Let's just say.  They pretty much put everything in their fridge along with Sausage Meatballs.  She said it didn't turn out right... Everyone liked it... But me. Awkward.
13. Amount of Miles Biked: 33 miles

14: Favorite Quote: Sister Rietz: " Bye Bye Fatheads." Elder O: "Goodnight Sweet Spirited Woman."  There is a joke in our Zone about saying Bye Bye Fatheads whenever we hang up the phone.  And the Zone Leaders want to change it, but the Bye Bye Fatheads Will NEVER DIE! Sister C and I will not allow that to happen.

We went jogging and met up with these sisters who live close to us.  People were judging us as they drove by.  ;)

We made all of these!

We found this sweet ride while out biking the other night... It didn't start, and it was in the middle of the desert... It was gone the next morning...

All the things people gave me to help me feel better.  I am missing another gatorade, and a thing of ice cream... They love to make us "feel at home."

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!

The call to repentance

Family. Friends. Random Citizens. I am still in Hesperia, and running super low on time, cause we had to go down the hill (this means go to Rancho Cucamonga area.  So out of the Desert)  this morning, and come back up and traffic was really bad.  Don't think we went faster than 30 mph..., and we still have a HUGE list of things that we must get done.  My new Companion is Sister E.  She is from Northern California, and she has been out for 14 months.  She seems like she will be a great companion, and I really hope that she is.  I am worried that this will be a hard 6 weeks, but it shall be wonderful.  The Lord wants us together, so that is what happened.

Mom: before you ask, I had the Mission Nurse look at my leg.  She said that I need to watch it, and keep a hot compress on it whenever my leg is not in motion, so like in the morning, and at night.  She said to just keep her updated on the status of it.  But she tells everyone to put a hot compress on their injuries, (including the sister that tore her ACL recently...) but I'll be obedient for a little bit, and do as she says.  Then I will let you know how it all goes.

1.Funniest things done: Celebrating Sister M, Elder O, and my birthdays yesterday, and the lady in our ward giving us our party put 61 candles in the cake, cause that is the combined age of all 3 of us.
2.Biggest Blessing: CONFERENCE!!! We all got called to repentance, and I have a HUGE list of things to get better at.  How awesome was the talk by Jorg Klebingat??? SO GOOD! All those things are things that I need to take responsibility for. Also, Elder Nelson, AND Elder Kacher both came to my mission and spoke to us, and it was SO cool to see them on the TV!  I shook both of their hands!  Also, Having Sister M as a companion.  Yes, there have been hard times, but there were also a lot of really sweet times too! I really know that she and I were meant to be together for my first 4 months, and I miss her already. 
3.Latest project: Getting my new companion ready for our area.  She has a beach cruiser for a bike, so this will be interesting...  We are working on getting a real bike for her.  Dallin and Dad, thanks for not letting me get one of them.  That would have been no bueno.
4.Most exciting events: Transfers, and the fact that I am staying in Hesperia!! WOOT-WOOT!!!!
5.Favorite game: Bingo.  Every time that we see a yellow car, we say Bingo.  The members of the ward think that we are WACK-O!  Those who own yellow cars, I will thank you on behalf of the other 88,000 missionaries.  We thank you for making our lives a little bit more fun!
6.Favorite Foods: The 3 Birthday Cakes that people have made for us these past 2 days.  They were wonderful, and I am positive I am going to be in a sugar comma for days.

7.Most challenging thing: Realizing that I will be the person that know the area, and that I really am in charge of planning the schedule for the day.  Talk about inside freak out!
8. Simple Pleasures: Riding our bikes with no handlebars, and then learning how to turn them, without using our handlebars.  Trev-  I will own you in Biking now.
9.Goals: Bike 40 miles this week, (I will let you know how the beach cruiser handles the "Outer Darkness" hills.)
10.Biggest smile: Seeing Meet the Mormons.  I cried.  I laughed.  I am now motivated to run everywhere in the World.  When you see the movie, you will realize how lucky and blessed you are to be a member of the church.  There are so many cool people in the church, and you all will love the film as much as I did I am sure. Mom and Dad- I have decided to drop out of school after the mission and just travel the world.  Just kidding, but really... Kristin- let's take up traveling the world.  We can document the different wards around the world, and show the church is the same all around the world.  You can see that I have thought a lot about this.
11.Biggest accomplishment: Sister M and I have biked 806.3 miles in 4 months.  Our goal was 800, and we reached our goal.  Woot-Woot. This companion and I wanna hit 600 miles.  My tires are getting really worn, but they are great.  I might need to get new brake pads, but I will cross that bridge when I wreck.  Haha, okay maybe I will get them fixed before then.

12. Worst Food: I actually don't know if we had any BAD food this week.  It all seemed really safe to me.  We shall see about this coming week though.
13. Amount of Miles Biked: 38.  We didn't bike a TON, but it was enough to help us reach our goal!
14: Favorite Quote: "Don't let the wordly riptides carry us away from the current that we are in right now."- Elder Kacher Another not church one... Same 79 yr.old Argentina Lady, " And then I passed away..... hahahah, I mean pass out!!!" she was talking about something that happened with her heart, and she told us that she died. And then realized that she had messed up. It was wonderful.  We all laughed really hard!

Well, I am out of time.  I will hopefully have more time next week.  Thanks for all the Birthday Wishes.  I was freaking out I am no longer a teenager.  I now have to act like an adult!!! GAH!

XOXOLove, Sister Rietz

Me playing pin the Name tag on the Elder.  They didn't have a Sister one. I won a HUGE candy bar!

our cake with 61 candles in it.  Fire Hazard Galore!

The lovely L, S, and J Families that put together the Birthday Party.  I am awkwardly on the side.  Two Points for AWKWARD!

Meet the Mormons!

HELLO FROM HESPERIA!!!

WEEK IN REVIEW:

1.Funniest things done: We went to go teach a potential investigator, who is now an investigator, and he had this BEAUTIFUL Pond in his backyard.  We were talking, looking, at all the fish, and he told me that he wants to put Salmon in it, and go fishing.  I told him that would be awesome, and that he should fish some salmon.  He thinks just cause I am from Idaho, that I only fish for food... I am starting to realize people think Idaho is undeveloped, and that we still drive buggies, and have teams of horses, and not cars... Riddle me that one, cause it is NOT like that anywhere in the USA, except in Amish Areas...

2.Biggest Blessing: Hearing the talks about the Temple at the General Women's Broadcast, and having Kathy sitting right behind us.  There were tears shed from both my eyeballs, so you know that it was a lot of tears...  ALSO.  Mom and Dad, don't be mad at me... I lost two things this week that are really important.  1. My personal debit card. and 2. my missionary debit card.  Yes.  The Story is below.
3.Latest project: Getting our apartment all clean, and not an unorganized mess that it has been for the last couple days.  We also are getting it ready for a new companion, because the chances of Sister M staying here for her 7th transfer is VERY slim.

4.Most exciting events: Transfer Calls on Saturday, and then on Sunday we are having a Birthday Party with 2 of our favorite families in the ward for Elder O, Sister M, and myself, because our birthdays are all coming up next week. AND GENERAL CONFERENCE on Saturday and Sunday!!! Woot-Woot!!! I bet they talk about being prepared, temples, missionary work, and families.  But of course, betting is bad, so there will be no reward when I am correct.
5.Favorite game: Nose-goes to who has to say the Prayer when we have meetings with the Elders.  My finger on the nose skills are getting Olympic Gold Medal Worthy. Challenge me.  I dare you.
6.Favorite Foods: Banana Milk.  So good in the Morning. AND Strawberry Muffins. MMMM!

7.Most challenging thing: Knowing that there are things that I need to get done, but that this time in my life I really just need to focus on my Mission.
8. Simple Pleasures: Hearing the Elders give a blessing to a Less-Active, and knowing that it was all the things that she needed that moment in her life.  It really makes me grateful for the Priesthood Holders that I work with, and that I have in my life.
10.Biggest smile: Beth and I saying hello after not seeing each other for 4 weeks.  She was so happy to see us, and we were so happy to see her! We worked with her, and counting money.  She was so happy when she was able to count back my change of $0.32 for the treasures that I was "buying" from her.

11.Biggest accomplishment: Having a lesson with Trent. (the pond guy.) We biked 3 miles in 40mph gusts of wind in 12 mins.  Members told us that we should do this triathlon with them, and we want to, but we wouldn't be able to finish the race, cause we can't get in water... YEAH... That would be awkward.
12. Worst Food: Cheese-It Chicken... Not Good.  Don't try it.  You have been warned.
13. Amount of Miles Biked: umm... I forgot to look. Sorry, but it was a lot.
14: Favorite Quote: Member at Church tells us: "You see that Elder over there, you need to grab him.  Take him on a date.  Look at the birds, the little kids running around. Feel the wind on your face.  Tell him about your faith." Us: "UMMM...  hahah, yeah we can't do that." Her: "I am 79 years old.  I still got it." Us: "hahaha, yeah no sorry that won't happen." Her: "Girls! I know when I see a perfect match, fight to the death for him!" Us: "Haha, yeah no.  Sorry Leah..."  She is a recent-convert from South America, and she doesn't really understand all the rules for missionaries.  It does give us good laughs though.

The new movie that has been a huge deal here, is Meet the Mormons.  We were all worried that this movie was gonna come out, and that the missionaries would have ZERO idea what it was about.  I mean, how awkward would that be, you are talking with a Non-member, and they are talking about this movie, and you just have to nod your head, and pretend you have an idea of what they are talking about.  Yeah, and then we hear that we will be seeing the movie.  But, it will be BEFORE it is released.  We are watching it on the 2nd, and everyone else can see it on the 10th.  We are really excited to be able to tell others about it, and let them know what normal Members are like.  For some reason, most of the people think that Mormons are only those that wear tags, and that they have to wear tags and church clothing at all times.  Yeah, that is not the case.  But this video is really going to bless the members, and those that watch it.  TELL ALL YOUR FRIENDS TO GO SEE IT!!! Also, here is a link to watch the trailer.  http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/meet-the-mormons-movie

Hopefully it works...

Well, like I said, we saw Beth.  She was so excited to see us, and I was really happy to see her too! She really has taught me so much, and she has such a sweet spirit about her.  She knows when someone is down, and how to make them happy.  We took a picture together and it is one of my favorites, because first she is laughing really hard, and she is squeezing me like crazy, and I feel like I am going to die from too much love from her.  and Second. You would also see my awesomeness of wearing a little boys v neck shirt from Walmart.  It looks like a nice shirt, but then I take off the cardigan, and the truth is revealed.  I love cardigans.

 We also meet with Sara and Martha.  They are awesome.  They are what you would call dry-mormons.  They are from Central America.  Moved to New York, and then when 9/11 happened they moved.  The one that is standing up, Sara, was supposed to be on the 110th floor the morning of 9/11, but something kept her on the 5th floor.  She says that she knows she was saved.  I would say that is a miracle.  She loves New York, but says that she will never be able to see it the same that she always has.  It was really sad to hear her talking about her co-workers that passed away, but she knows that she will see them again.  She has been really sick, and just started coming back to church.  I love them both so much.  Martha, has a lot of health problems, and can't really do anything.  She likes to make faces at Sara, when her back is turned.  I really love them so much.  

So yes, I lost my debit cards... Both of my sources of money for food, and other things.  I was freaking out.  I was praying hard, and the cards were nowhere to be found.  I have no idea how I lost them, but they were both GONE! Then, this morning... I was worried cause I needed to get somethings like shampoo, and a toothbrush.  Well, Sister C was over washing her clothes, and she walks in with my missionary debit card.  IT WAS IN THE DRYER! I think it was in my pocket, and then I forgot about it, and washed my clothes, and forgot about it... So then I was worried, but not as worried cause my bank card was still MIA...  I looked in the dryer for the card, and it wasn't there. I prayed one more time, and felt prompted to look in the dryer again.  I didn't want to.  I had already looked there, and there was nothing there. Well, Low and behold, I looked in the dryer again, and it was there!!! I was stunned...  I had looked there before, and it was not there, and then I look again, and there it is.  The Lord blesses us AFTER the trial of our Faith.

We also saw one of my favorite less-actives, Sister P.  She is really sick and has cancer, and is really going through so much.  She weighs about 85ish lbs, and every week she is super sick looking.  Well the other day, she opened the door, and she looked so much better!! I am enclosing 2 pictures of her, so you can see for yourself how much better she looks! Her friend Mona was there, and lives in a city down by the Ocean, but she wants missionaries to come see her there, so we are pretty excited for her!!

  

Sis P and me (before)

Sister P, me and her friend. (After)

Rock Strong Sara and Marvelous Martha

A very funny man who dropped us, but is funny none the less.  He makes things out of wood.

We wore these things for an FHE thing that our ward did while singing Book of Mormon Stories

I love this Gospel.  I love tender mercies from the Lord.  I love the Prophet.  I love Hesperia.  I love the sun, and I especially love the days when there no wind.  I am so grateful for the people that I am meeting out here, and for all things that I am realizing I am blessed with back home.  I love all of you so much, and love all your emails, notes, and letters that I get.  They really are great.  I love the fact that I can email all of you, and see how all my friends are doing out on their missions as well.  I know that the words that we hear from the Prophet this weekend is truly what the Lord wants us to hear.  I know the Book of Mormon is true.  I know that Joseph Smith was foreordained to be a prophet.  I love all of you.  oh.. I already said it. But it's nice to say it twice.  Golly darn it, I am so PUNNY! You all are amazing, and know that I love all of you, and pray for you all the time.  I will strive to be safe this week, and still be my crazy awkward self that I always am.

I might be running behind next week, cause there is a 99.7% chance that Sis. M is getting transferred, and that I will have to go down the hill, and get a new companion.  

I wish that I had tons to say, but all the things that I wanted to say, I put in the list of things above.  

Contests: Rifle, Watermelon Eating, and Jump Rope

WEEK IN REVIEW:

1.Funniest things done: We had a watermelon eating contest with some other sisters.  They were super good, and they destroyed us.  They ate it so fast, and I just laughed, cause I actually enjoyed my watermelon.
2.Biggest Blessing: Tracting, and someone actually called us back, and he wants to learn more, and he said he is really interested.

4.Most exciting events: Women's Broadcast this week! This past week, we got a really good CD from some other sisters, so we have been jamming out to that.  We also made our bed frames into bunk beds.  Don't worry, we don't sleep on them, they are NOT safe at all.  We are still sleeping on the porch, where it is SAFE!!! WOOT-Woot!!!
5.Favorite game: People Watching.  We don't get to do it a lot, but sometimes when we see people talk , we act like we are part of their conversation.  It would be awkward if they knew what we were doing.  Good thing they don't.
6.Favorite Foods: We had hamburgers.  They were really good, and the lady had apple cider that they had pressed themselves! Just like what we do in the Fall!

7.Most challenging thing: Leaving 33 cards on doors, and knowing that none of them will ever call us back.  Or so we think!
8. Simple Pleasures: Pomegranate Trees.  They are here in the Desert.  They don't smell either.
10.Biggest smile: When a Jehovah Witness took our card!!! She actually took Mormon Literature! Heavenly Father probably smiled more than Sis. M and I.

11.Biggest accomplishment: Wearing Deodorant, and NOT having to reapply it. Yes, that is an accomplishment.
12. Worst Food: Chicken Mo-lay. (I think that is how you spell it...) It wasn't chicken.  It was turkey.  I hate turkey.  End of bad meal.
13. Amount of Miles Biked: LOTS! we are almost at 600 miles on Moon's Odometer, that has been deleted once.
14: Favorite Quote: "Did I tell you a young man is running for Prom Princess?"  This is what a less-active was freaking out about. She would not let it rest.  I am sure that when we go back, we will hear all about how he won.  Yeah, that is something that was monumental for Hesperia.  Oh well.  Times are changing it appears.

Alright.  So this week we went tracting.  While we were out, we saw this man outside, and we started talking with him.  He said that he didn't want to talk about what we were selling.  We weren't selling anything, so we told him we just wanted to talk.  So we started talking with him.  He was really nice, took our card, and told us to have a nice day.  We left with no thought about it.  Then the next day, we got a call from Trent, and he said that he was really interested, and wanted to learn more.  We kinda freaked out.  Okay, we really FREAKED OUT!  Yeah, that was exciting.

Then the next thing while tracting.  We knock on one door, and this lady opens the door.  This is how the conversation went along... Her: " WHAT YOU WANT!" (that was said in black lady's voice) Me trying to sound happy, cause missionaries are ALWAYS happy: "Hi how are you!?" Her: "I SAY WHAT YOU WANT?!"  Me: "Well we are missionaries, and we were wondering if you have ever done your genealogy b...." *cuts me off* Her: "I don't want to know about you.  I know about you Mormons. I have a RIFLE!!! GET OUT!"  We left.  I wanted to ask her if she knew how to use it, but I decided that it would be better to live then have her show me that she does know how to use it.  Yeah, that is an example of how I have grown as a person I guess.

But I am still a little kid at heart.   We were biking to dinner, and we saw these two girls jump roping.  I decided that I wanted to challenge them to jump roping.  They accepted our challenge.  Sister M thought I was kidding.  I wasn't.  I really wanted to jump rope, and we were close to 10 mins early for dinner, so we jump roped with them.  I dominated the single rope, and then they killed me in double dutch, yeah, I got shown up by these two 8 year old girls.... Moral of the story, don't challenge people to jump rope, unless you know that you can beat them.  We left, and I told them we were gonna come back, and I was gonna beat them in jump rope.  We have dinner at their house on Tuesday, so I am going to try and redeem myself.  I will let you know how it goes.  I would love a jump rope, and will be searching for one at the dollar store.

We are still biking everywhere, and this past week, it was some days cooler, but it would only last until 11 or so.  Sister M was sick the other day, but she was convinced that she would be alright, so we left the apartment.  Well, she looked super sick, and luckily all of our appointments but one cancelled.  So we went to that one appointment, and came home.  She took a nap, and I updated the Area Book, and the progress record.  She didn't sleep that long, but it did seem to do her good.  I think that we should not sleep outside much longer, so I am sure that once transfers come, we will start sleep inside.  That will be sad, but that will be also good at that same time.

We also had a watermelon eating contest with the Santa-Fe Sisters.  They gave us a formal invitation, and we just laughed cause Sister M (one of the Santa-Fe Sisters) just shoved the watermelon into her face, which caused the water to fall from the melon, and thus resulting in less substance that she would have to eat.  Sister M actually won, and Sister J and I just sat and laughed, and watched them attack their pieces, and then she and I enjoyed them without shoving them down our throats.

Some exciting news that we received today: The Missionary Department, is going to let us watch the movie that is coming out.  Meet the Mormons.  We are excited, and we will watch it instead of having a Zone Conference.  I am super excited, because we will actually see it before it comes out, which is really soon I believe too!

Sad news: A lady in our ward was killed in a car accident, and her family is not doing well because of the news.  Her children actually are all adopted, and so they feel like the one person who loved them is gone.  It is hard because she actually attended one of the other wards cause she interpreted sign language for the deaf, so she was never in our ward.  So it is hard to know what ward needs to do what.  Her funeral is on Monday, and the missionaries from both wards have been asked to help.  Please keep Sister L's family in your prayers.  

I love you all so much! Thank you for the letters! They bring tears of joy to my eyes.  But for reals.  I love them all so much! It lets me know that you all are going about your lives just wonderfully.

Have a great week!!! The Church is true people!!!!!!!!

Well, I must go.  Sorry this email is boring!!!

Sis. J and I actually enjoying our watermelon

Pomegranate Trees.  They are real.  No smell though.  I might just go smell them all up close though, to make sure that they really don't have a smell (Note from Amber's mama - we burn pomegranate candles at our house, hence we "know" what they should smell like)

Me. rocking at Jump Rope.

This week in review

WEEK IN REVIEW:

1.Funniest things done: Sister M and I have been trying to remember the lyrics to "apostate" songs, and movies that we love, but are not watching for 18 months... ex: High School Musical, Big Time Rush, Taylor Swift, etc.
2.Biggest Blessing: Still being able to sleep outside because the weather has been really nice at night, and so we haven't moved our beds in from the deck.
3.Latest project: Finding People to Teach the Gospel to.  If you have referrals, give them to the missionaries... THEY WILL LOVE YOU!
4.Most exciting events: Our ward mission leader called us for the first time since I have been here.  He called to see how the work was going, and actually really trying to do his calling.  We told him to call the Elders, and he did.  They were just as shocked as we were at his phone call.
5.Favorite game: Getting songs stuck in each others heads, and not remembering the rest of the lyrics.
6.Favorite Foods: Tacos.  With homemade salsa, and cilantro. yummm...

7.Most challenging thing: Biking in 110 degree weather, and drinking all our water, cause we thought that we would be able to get water from the next lesson that we had, but then they were not home...  But no worries, the Lord looks after his missionaries, we got water.
8. Simple Pleasures: Looking at my scripture case, and seeing my family on there, and knowing that I can be with them for time and all eternity!!
9.Goals: Find 2 new Investigators this week.  Not get bit by bugs this week.  (Yes, Sister O, I mean Lisa....  we didn't wear bug spray once, and I got 15 bug bites...)
10.Biggest smile: The Elders were helping us do weekly planning, and they pulled out caramels from a man in our ward, and they were sooo gross looking.  He just was like, oh yeah, these are for you.  Hope you like them.  They were so gross.
11.Biggest accomplishment: Not laughing very much at the children in the primary program.  It was yesterday, and only one kid fell, one kid just stood there and said nothing, and another girl thought that the microphone was food...
12. Worst Food: Another Chicken casserole, filled with cans of cream of soups.  If I die from a heart-attack, you know why: Cream of Soup Casseroles.
13. Amount of Miles Biked: Wednesday-Sunday: 38.2 miles.  On friday, we biked 17.3 miles, and it was 110 outside.  So glad that we were able to get water from people.
14: Favorite Quote: Todd, the husband of one of our less-actives: " I like your church, it is the only one that doesn't tell me I am going to burn in Hell.  Will I ever join it, no.  But you sweet girls will let me into the back door in heaven. Right?!" Haha, we just laughed really hard and said "we don't know Todd, maybe that will happen."

Well, I decided to change things, and put the week in review first.  That way, there is no reason to scroll to the bottom, to see the things that happened this week.

Well... I just emailed on Wednesday, and it is weird to think that it is P-day again.  There is so much going on, BYU-I started school, and it is so weird to think how fast that year went by.  I was surprised when I had some emails from people that were talking about being back at school. That would be weird to be back, but nevertheless, GOOD LUCK to YOU ALL!  We had 18 lessons this week, which was better then the 11 that we had the week before.  I know that we are not supposed to really compare numbers, and be focused on numbers, but that is how I judge how successful our week was.  We were able to meet with a couple investigators, and we are teaching Sue about the Church, and how there is a God that loves her.  She is the granddaughter of one of our less-actives, and she is showing interest in the gospel.  We are excited to teach her, but it is hard because her grandpa HATES organized religion, so he will call her out of the room, which makes it hard to bring her back out, but that will just be a battle that we will have to deal with.  We showed her the video about Hope of God's Light.  Holy Cow! It is so good! Every time I watch it, I see proof for so many things that show the love  our Heavenly Father has for us.  He really knows each of us personally, and knows that we are going to be able to get through the trials that we have.  I know that Heavenly Father gives us trials that will challenge us, and make us want to give up, but when we perservere and get through it, the blessings are amazing!!!

One of the Less-Actives that we visit is battling cancer, and she is on a waiting list to be able to get into the Doctors, and start her treatments.  We are all praying that a slot opens up, and that she will be able to get in there sooner.  She is really sick, and doesn't weigh very much.  She is one of the younger older less-actives that we visit, and she always tells us what is going on in the world, and how there are so many terrible things happening around us, but that we are missionaries so that we are saved.  Her husband is the author of the quote of the week.  They are so funny, and he always says things, and then Sister P gets all embarrassed at his crude humor jokes.  

We officially dropped David, but we know that it is what needed to happen.  It was hard, but like I said in my last email,"This week I really learned that the Lord really knows the things that can help our investigators, and if it takes not meeting with us anymore at this time, that we will have to use that trust that we have in the Lord, and know that we really are not to be meeting with them at this time."  I know that this is so true.  The ward is really fellowshipping him now that we are no longer meeting him.  He is so cool, and loves to see people at church, so we really hope that it continues after Sister M and I are both gone.

I have been reading in the Doctrine and Covenants, and there are constantly people being chastised, and called out in the books.  I am SO grateful that I was not a member back then, because I would hate to be having my name in the D&C for all the world to see.  That would be such a bummer.

The rains are coming soon, at least that is what people say...  I don't know if I believe them though, cause we are still waiting for the Earthquake, and the Hurricane that our less-active told us were going to come... Well... I must go.  I also have forgot my camera, and so I have no pictures to send home.  I actually don't think that I took any besides the ones at the temple. That I already sent home.  I love you all so much! You all are wonderful.  I hope you have a great day, and that you are all doing good.  I love your emails, and sorry that I have been really bad about writing you all back.  There will be letters sent today, because for Zone Activity we are playing board games, and we all know how much I "LOVE" those games.  Have a wonderful, fantabulous week!   I know that this is Christ's Church on the earth today, and we are his people, and that it is not only the missionaries responsibilities to help bring those to the Gospel, but also the members.  We must all work together.  In the wise words of High School Musical's Troy Bolton: we gotta all work together.  "WE GOTTA WORK, WORK, WORK THIS OUT WE CAN ALL BE TOGETHER, WE CAN WORK THIS OUTTTTT"

Love you all.

Have a great week!

-- 

XOXO

Love, Sister Rietz