Saturday, August 17, 2013

SURPRISE! Friday is P-Day!

Hey everyone! Well, as you can probably guess Friday is my P-Day. It's so exciting that I have been here less than 3 days and I already get the chance to write home! God truly works in mysterious ways... So, how is everybody?? How are my boys?? Lets just say that I am so glad I brought my little picture book. I stare at those pictures and every night and it gives me so much comfort. Well, the MTC so far has been interesting. I have loved it and I have hated it. I'll start with the love part so I don't cry again. From the moment I stepped on campus, the spirit that I have felt has been undeniable and so strong. One of the first things we did when we got here was they rounded all the new missionaries together and had orientation. They told us that on Wednesday, 850 new missionaries entered this MTC. The biggest number they have ever had... that made me feel a little better knowing I wasn't alone. We then sang the missionary song but changed the lyrics a little. It went like this.... We are as the Army of Helaman We have been taught in our youth And we are now the Lord's missionaries To bring the word his truth Kay. Hi. Tears. The entire time. I AM FINALLY A MISSIONARY! It sort of sank in a little more in that moment. Then after that, we got the opportunity to watch and to teach to 3 people. About 50 missionaries gathered in the room and it was silent and peaceful. An amazing teaching experience and probably my favorite so far. Since I know that you are totally all wondering, yes. The food is pretty gross. Lets just say that being a picky eater at the MTC kind of bites. And of course I get the companions that will eat everything! They love the food and I just sit there with my kiwi. It's totally fine. And yes, you read that right... companionS! I have two! Sister Rasmussen is from Taylorsville and is 19 years old. She is darling. Just always smiling and super happy. I can just tell that she will connect with so many people on her mission. Then there is Sister Harmon who is also so sweet. She is 20 years old and is from New Mexico. They are both amazing companions! Although, they are so much like each other that I am usually the one getting kicked off the island. Haha that's alright though. It's my childhood in a nutshell. (Thanks Tine and Tay!) But, the reason I have two is because Sister Rasmussen's companion never showed... weird right??? So it is just us three. Even in our room! There was supposed to be 5 girls in our room and 2 never showed. So we each get a bunk bed and a desk. SOOOO grateful for that. I like my space. :) My district consists of 4 sets of elders and then us sisters. And for our teachers, Brother Turner and Brother Wynn, we are the only district they have ever had that are all going to the same mission. It's awesome!! We are all completely different but that is why we work well. Kinda weird but just trust me. The Elders have such amazing testimonies and insights! Today, we all got to teach our first investigator. Dave is his name and being our teacher is his game. (Haha I know that was totally wierd but go with it) So yes. We get to teach our teacher in character. It is quite the experience I will tell you that. So, the hard things about the MTC. First things first. I am homesick. Like... way bad! I am either crying or on the verge of tears usually. And I know it sounds dumb but I feel like I am the only one! I know that I am not though... Also, the MTC is kind of weird because you are surrounded by all these other missionaries and it is great but at the same time, I just want to get out! We get to go to the Temple next friday and that is the thing I seriously am looking forward to the most. I just need some world outside of the MTC. I cannot wait to get out to Iowa and just have a little bit more freedom. I am truly learning how to rely on my Savior for comfort. I have prayed more in the last 2 days than I have in months. I know he hears me... although the comfort comes for only a little while, it comes. And I can feel my Savior's love make up for the ache I have in my heart. There are so many amazing sisters here who have so much comfort and advice to give. They are a huge blessing in my life here at the MTC. Also, I totally pulled a Linsey and asked for a blessing from my District leader, Elder Ellsworth. I haven't received it yet but am looking forward to it. Lisa, if you are reading this, come find me. Hahaha I really just need a little piece of home right now. A huge hug from you would be the best thing right now. I just got my first package from someone... not sure who... and I am so excited for tonight when I get to open it! Please remember me in your prayers and in you hearts. Also, letters, emails, ANYTHING, are greatly appreciated. ;) Just know that I love you all and am so grateful for your influence and for your caring words before I left. They have comforted me immensely in my 2 1/2 days here. Once again, letters and emails and packages are totally appreciated. I love you all so much! Especially you mom! I miss you. Alot. I kind of need a mom hug right now. But, In 18 months I will. WOOO! -Sister Jensen P.S. - I don't have a first name any more and its weird. P.P.S - I have seen Elder Childs twice and of course didn't have my camera with me either time. He is happy and healthy and ready to get to Norway already! We already decided next time we see each other, we will get a picture. Even if we have to use someone else's camera!