UKRAINE!!! and Merry Christmas!!!

So, I don't normally add anything to Kimi's letters, but this week I want to let everyone know that Sean received his mission call and will be going to the Ukraine Donetsk mission. He goes to the Mission Training Center in Provo on Apr 6 and will be learning Russian and possibly Ukrainian.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New year to all of you

Happy Chirstmas to all,> Seanie I am so proud of you!!! I cannot stop smiling I am so happy!!> Things here in Texas couldn't be any better or happier. Tracy and Carmen> showed up to church on Sunday with their own quads embossed with their names> on it. They are full-fledged members now and nothing can stop them.> Also, on Friday we were knocking, (we do a lot of knocking,even in the gated> communities which makes up 3/4ths of our area, silly gates and guards will> not and cannot stop the truth) And at 6:30 we talked to this man Jesse and> invited to the Christmas party at 7. And HE SHOWED UP, him and his baby> (also Jesse). The party was made up of a lot of group games and it was> pretty much mass mayhem, and the members are so wonderful and they were> talking to him about when they were baptized and about different church> stuff, which of course having talked to us only for 5 minutes or so, was a> little confusing for him. But, we taught him the restoration in the> craziness and the spirit was strong. We got word on sunday that he stayed> and did a church tour with a brother in the ward and they ended the night> with a word of prayer. Miracles NEVER cease. I love being a missionary.> We have also been working with all the people in the Bulverde ward. And> they are incredible. They just tell us that they will steal us through> finding people for us to teach! And they are coming through. So we are> busier than ever, but it is the way we missionaries like it best. We went> caroling last night with another set of elders. It was just like the good> ol' times, minus the beat boxing and they don't really jazz it up, but I do,> don't worry.> But, what has really been on my mind, during this time has been the> Savior. I have been reading the New Testament. I my love for the Savior> deepens. It is through Him that we truly have Joy in the world, because He> was born on that silent and holy night, as the herald angels we have heard> on high sang their praises on the midnight clear with wondering awe, far> far away on the Judea's plains and the star shown brightly in the little> town of Bethlehem, as the baby Jesus, our Lord and our King slept away in a> manger.> All song tittle's aside... at this time my heart is full of gratitude and> peace, for my savior. For his sacrifice and love. For the name I bear on my> name tag each and every day. My purpose is to invite others to come unto> Him. I love Him. And I praise His name,> ...Russell M. Nelson had an article in the Dec 1989 Ensign and here are a> few quotes from it. Here goes:>> Why Bethlehem? Is there symbolic significance in the meaning of the name> Bethlehem, which in Hebrew means "house of bread"? The great provider> declared Himself to be the "bread of life." (John 6:48) How appropriate it> was that He, the "bread of life," was to come from the "house of bread.">> Why among the animals? He, whom John declared to be the "Lamb of God" (John> 1:29), was born during the season of Passover amongst the animals, as were> other lams ewing prepared for Paschal sacrifice.>> At the birth of Him who is called "good shepherd" (John 10:14), shepherds> were the first to receive the announcement of His holy birth (Luke 2:8-16).>> At the birth of Hm who once identified Himself as the "bright and morning> star" (Rev 22:16), a new star appeared in the heavens (Matt 2:2, 3 Ne1:21)> "At the arrival of Him who is called 'the light of the world' (John 8:12),> darkness was banished as a sign of His holy birth (3 Ne 1:15, 19). He was> born the Son of God and the son of a virgin mother, as foretold by Isaiah> (Isaiah 7:14) and other prophets. (1 Ne 11:13-21, Alma 7:9-10)">> A very merry and joyous Christmas to you all from Texas!>> Love> Your Sister/Hermana Rooney

My ghost is loud...

Hola indeed!,> Well my week has defiantly been eventful. Turns out we are having some> changes after all. Three areas had to close this transfer because more> missionaries left then came in ( translation: we need more elders and> sisters in the field) So the Elders in the area bordering ours got doubled> out and we took over for them. So we have our area and are kinda being> doubled in to Bulverde, everything, but proselyting. The problem is their> church building is 30 minutes away and our church starts at 9 and theirs at> 10. And they are so wonderful... but we are only part-time missionaries for> them. (I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THAT EVEN MEANS) They were so wonderful over> there and so excited to have sisters, but we had to tell them that we are> only sorta their missionaries. It was actually really hard for me because I> only know how to give everything I've got to a ward. And we aren't really> going to be given an opportunity to really get to know them and love them.> So by far the hardest assignment yet, but we're going to be figuring it all> out. Its all in the Lords hands so it'll be okay.> We're teaching alot of really great people and there are and will be a lot> of baptisms in the coming months. Nina Dawson committed to January 15 if> she gets an answer, maybe I taught her and invited her and she accepted all> during sacrament meeting. She is leaving on Wednesday for Germany for 3> weeks, cause that's where all of Carmen's family is. So we really weren't> going to have time to do much before she left and the spirit told me to.> And I always do what he tells me to.> Speaking of, it was so beautiful. On Sunday in gospel principles we were> talking about Eternal Families, and the teacher asked the Dawson's what> changes if any they've seen since they joined the church. And Nina said> that her parents are nicer and they love each other more and that they hang> out more than she's ever seen and they are just happier and her dad is> outgoing now. And Carmen almost in tears said that Tracy has become the man> she's always dreamed of. That he's so helpful and loving and supportive and> stepped up to his role of patriarch of the family. And then Tracy said "well> I can't help it my ghost is loud." He said that he gets prompting all the> time to get up and help Carmen etc. He said he now feels empathetic towards> his family and not that he wouldn't before, he just didn't think about it> before. Tracy received the priesthood on Sunday. We couldn't be there> because we had to go to the other ward. But, we heard that as always his> smile was ear to ear. And that both Carmen and Nina were beaming.> Nina, is at a place where she is deciding between the worldly future or> the LDS future. She understands that it is a huge decision. I shared> Mosiah 2:41 with her and as I was talking to her it hit me so much deeper.> We all have those options. Whether in the church or without. We can choose> the worlds path or the Lords'. Especially during this Christmas season. A> college kid can choose the path of partying and the whole "eat, drink and be> merry for tomorrow we die" mentality. Or the eternal perspective. We can> choose temporary pleasure or lasting joy. I have seen with my own eyes and> felt in my own heart the change that is brought about through choosing the> Lord's way. It strengthens families, heals wounds, turns the dark to> light. Where faith is, doubt and fear cannot be. Because of the gospel, I> know who I am and who you are. We are children of a Loving Heavenly> Father. He is perfect. He is perfectly loving. He only wants our good and> our happiness. He wants to and has given us all the answers we seek and the> strength that we so desperately need. I pray that everyone of us can be as> in tune as a new convert that we can all say "well I can't help it, my ghost> is loud." I pray that during this Holiday season we can all focus on what> is most important. That we can all turn our thoughts to the Savior, the one> who is truly emphatic. That we can all look for opportunities to serve, to> laugh and to love!>> I love you all. I can't put into words how much I love you all. Happy> holidays! Till next week!>> Love,> Your Sister Rooney

Thankful to be a Missionary!

Happy Thanksgiving!!,> May I please tell you how marvelous it is to be a missionary. There> is nothing I would rather be doing or no where I would rather be. Its> funny, Sister Snow and I were talking about what we thought a mission would> be. No on tells you about the crazy people you'd meet or maybe those days> that you go and don't really talk to anyone. Or maybe those days that you> run into anti-mormon after anti-mormon. But, I am truly grateful for it> ALL! The entire experience. The opportunity I have to represent my Lord> and my Savior to tell them the GOOD NEWS!! It is so wonderful! God still> loves us as much today as ever. We have more scripture and a true and> living prophet on the earth. It astounding to me that some how with each> and ever day, my love for my Savior, for His gospel and His plan grows. My> love for my family and friends deepen and I am more grateful for the truly> blessed life the Lord has given me. Its been a really interesting> experience as I study Jesus the Christ and read through the book of mormon> over and over again as I study preach my gospel, it "enlightens my> understanding and begins to be delicious to me" in a way that I could never> have thought possible. And just lately I'm studying and analyzing my> patriarchal blessing. And its a TREASURE TROVE! Do y'all understand how> incredible those are. I have study material and detailed direction for the> rest of my life. I really encourage you to study yours. Look at the> promises. The things the Lord would have you do. The warnings. Its> amazing. We are God's children. I am a child of God. He loves me. He> knows me. He understands me! (thank goodness someone does, cause I sure> don't) He guides me. He has a plan for me personally. And I know the same> is true for each of you.> I forget who I talk about. But, Tracy (male) and Carmen Dawson are> incredible. They are unstoppable and unshakable. They are getting baptized> on Dec 4!! I have never witnessed so plainly the teachings and> understanding that comes from the spirit alone. They know things that we> never taught them. No one, no anti- or good intentioned member who has said> the wrong things (and there are MANY of both) has made them blink for a> second. Tracy and Carmen have never gone to church together. They have> never even really talked about these things together. And last night for> the very first time Tracy prayed. He prayed out loud and in front of> Carmen. I don't think there is anything so sweet in all the world. And my> goodness, to see the way that Carmen just sparkles!!! She just shines!! To> see Tracy progress the way he has. She has been waiting for this for more> than 25 years. And Tracy last night was just testifying of the truth. Of> the Book of Mormon. Of the prophets of everything. Nothing so incredible> as their faith. And the unity that would come. As I have been studying> Jesus the Christ I realize how blinded and hardened the pharisees and the> Sadducee's are, they often would say that Christ did the miracles through> the power of the devil. The anti- force in this community is strong. They> say we are a cult and blah blah blah. But, Satan doesn't strengthen homes> and families, Satan doesn't teach a man to pray. If we only look at the> fruits, we can know for a surety that this is indeed the truth! I'm> thankful for the adversity. There will always be opposition. But, the> Lord's work's will NOT be frustrated. There is wheat among the tares. Those> who recognize the truth are few. But THEY EXIST and they are waiting.> We found a family this week, who a month ago called who knows who to> have representatives come by from the Church. It got lost in translation,> but the spirit knew. So we knocked on her door. We met with her the next> day and invited her to be baptized. She said "that would be excellent."> That many people have tried to pressure her to be baptized in other> churches, but of course she had to politely decline because it wasn't the> truth. Ten years ago her (Lisa Zepeta) and her husband (Daniel) were so fed> up they were just going to write their own religion. But, it came to them> that the truth was out there they just hadn't found it yet. She has been> searching all her life and she knows this is it!> This is REAL. There is indeed truth restored. and how lucky am I to> declare it! I love you all and I thank you for your love and support. Have> an incredibly delicious thanksgiving!! I know I will. Don't worry Steve> DeBord is coming to the house we are having dinner at. So I'll just be> having thanksgiving with family pretty much! Words can't describe my> gratitude. I am spoiled I know it!>> Love,> Your Sister Rooney

Fall...

Well Hello Everyone,> I hope everything is wonderful with everyone. Things here in Encino Park> couldn't be any better, EXCEPT its getting cold. I have brought out the> sweaters, scarves and tights. They tell me it doesn't last very long....> thank goodness. I really have a strong testimony, that I would have died> anywhere else. Missionary work, is an outside kind of work. Not a curl up> in a blanket, drink hot chocolate and look at the cold from the inside kind> of work. So yet another testimony that Heavenly Father knows us> personally.> Tuesday I had dinner with Br. DeBord. He made a feast!! Gumbalaya,> chili, blue corn bread, potatoes and green beans, with a honeydue with> prickley pear smoothie. I had a very little bit of each and it was all> incredible. He is quite the cook. And the whole time I was boggled that I> was actually eating dinner at his house. Like we'd always joked about.> Prophecy fulfilled. He is really the nicest man. I see Roxanne in him;> and I finally saw Sandy at church too. And word traveled fast. I think> within less than two days, EVERYONE in multiple wards, knew that I was> Roxanne's roommate. And it kinda throws me off every time somebody> mentions it because it was like it happened in my past life and so its not what my> mind immediately jumps to, so it takes me a few seconds to make the> connection to Roxanne, Roxanne.> As far as everything else goes, it couldn't be more beautiful. I love love> love Sister Snow. We get along SO well. We are so much a like, which seems> to be a little dangerous. You see we have both had companions who were on> top of remembering things, and checking the phone and not loosing things> etc... So Heavenly Father is making us both step up and improve. He's> really good at that. We just laugh at ourselves all the time and try to set> goals to get better. But, at the same time we both love to work hard, love> the people, and love obedience. So its working out, we've just got to get used> to the logistical stuff. Like putting the keys in the same place every> time. Every day I am more astounded by her strength and dedication. Because> her opposition arises from those closest to her. Yeah maybe our family is> working on things, but her family sends an email every once in a while,> telling her that she is ruining peoples lives and that they are so> disappointed in her and that she has destroyed their family. But, she knows> the truth. She knows this is the best thing we could ever be doing. It is> the best thing anyone could ever do.> Jonathan Gadbilou got baptized that Sunday in Windcrest and I couldn't be> more overjoyed. Here Tracy and Carmin are doing great. We had dinner> all together at a members house and it went WONDERFULLY. They want a quad> and nothing is going to stop them from getting baptized. They recognize the> truth and they have the courage to follow it. There is no greater joy, than> seeing the lives of those you love change and come in accordance with the> plan of our heavenly father. To see the fire to learn everything they> possible can be ignited is powerful indeed.> I have such a testimony of the Lord's timing. It is essential to recognize> it. Because whether someone is less active, not a member or struggling> with something else or another... it all comes down to timing. I have not> been called to convince anyone that this is the truth. It is the truth. It> stands alone. I am not going to convince anyone that the Book of Mormon is> the word of God and that Joseph Smith in reality spoke to Heavenly Father> and Jesus Christ and was called to be a prophet, anymore than I can convince> them that Jesus is our Savior. When someone isn't ready they harden their> hearts to the spirit and cast it off as a thing of naught (2 Nephi> 33:1-2) . But, when it is the Lords time, they readily accept and are> taught by the Holy Ghost the truth of all things and then THEY ACT on it.> We can all help to find those people. To help prepare them. This is not the> responsibility of a full-time missionary alone. The softening most often> occurs through good friends and neighbors. So be that, reach out to> people. At baptism, we promised to take Christ's name upon us. To do as he> would do.> Well, I love you!!! I hope all is wonderful! If its not... pray and give it> to Heavenly Father and be grateful for the opportunity to learn. Every> person that doesn't want to talk to us, is just another answer to our> prayers, because we pray to find those who are ready, and so they don't> know, but when they say I have a church or I am not interested or> etc... they are following the spirit cause what they are really saying is> ..." I am not yet ready at this time to accept the message of the restored> gospel, but if you give me time I'll get there, but if you keep going you'll> find my neighbor who is." It is such a blessing. And it isn't just positive> thinking, its the truth. Heavenly Father answers all our prayers, we just> need to look for our answers.> Love,> Your Hermana/ Sister> Rooney

Stand and Fight

Howdy,> So things are just blissful here in Encino Park. Sister Snow and I> still cannot believe that we are lucky enough to be serving together!! We> just mesh. There is no other way to put it. We look at the work the same.> We think about everything the same. We realize that this time is the> greatest blessing ever and it probably wont last long. We have set really> great goals. We have been working hard and having fun all the time. We are> just going to step up our game even more. We're going to study in our free> time and take advantage of this time we have together as best we can.> But, poor sister snow got a stomach virus thing. We had to stay in on> Tuesday and she tried to push through it on Wednesday and we went out, then> we went to urgent care on Thursday. And she was healed by Friday! It was> a miracle. And we were both SUPER antsy. I never want to have to stay in> again. It was miserable. Just staying in all day instead of seeing people> and talking to people and doing the work, made us stir crazy. But, it was an> incredible week none the less. Because even though we weren't able to work,> the lord was. He's alot better at this than we are anyways.> So I must tell you about Tracy (husband) and Carmin (wife) Dawson.> They have two kids David (22) and Nina (18). And Tracy and Carmin are> WONDERFUL!! I was reading in Jesus The Christ about his parables. I read> about the parable of the sower and how the seed was good, but it depended on> whether or not the ground was good or prepared as to whether or not the seed> took root and flourished. What we do is talk to people with all types of> ground. And it is our job to discern the type of ground the people> have. Everyone can have good ground with more preparation, and different> experiences with us can help prepare their ground, from falling by the way> side, to stony places, to the weed-encumbered field, and then the clean rich> mold receptive and fertile grounds. Tracy and Carmin are the fertile> ground. Tracy was in the military for a long time and Carmin is from> Germany. They have both gone to many many different churches, and they saw> alot of the hypocrisy. Last Sunday at church we had an amazing restoration> lesson and Carmin was a little quiet. We talked to her and she said, well I> guess I know now. and she was quiet cause the spirit had testified that she> would have to start living the word of wisdom. None of this from us. They> honestly just soak EVERYTHING up. They have downloaded the mormon channel> app onto their I-phone and they've been listening to talks and the> scriptures. They took home a gospel principles book yesterday and have> already read through most of it. They are incredible. I love them and I am> so grateful for their amazing example of true faith. please pray for> them!! and pray for their son David. He's come across a LOT of anti. He> told his parents that we are fanatics and are trying to brain wash them.> So we always joke about it. And they called him out and told him that he> didn't know any real facts. They're great they have been prepared. being a> missionary is the best thing in the world. Because its true. Other wise we> would totally just be fanatics trying to brain wash people. But, thankfully> we don't have to because they can pray and the spirit teaches the truth and> we just get to be lucky bi-standards.>> I love you all!! Hope everything is great!!! I have realized more than ever> that the adversary is real, there are alot of big non-denominational church> that spread alot of anti in this area, so we just step up our game. The> truth will prevail and God's ways will never be frustrated! So stand and> fight!! There is no greater cause!>> Love YA> your> Sister Kimi michelle Rooney

Welcome to Encino Park

Hey, Hey, Hey> So, I am fairly certain that this past week has been the longest/best/> craziest of my life. Due to events in the area, having more to do with its> sketchiness and a sketchy investigator (more details after the mission but> this is also why last week was kinda tough and the email was so short) I was> transferred. It was a wonderful 6 weeks in Windcrest. I really came to LOVE> the ward and our investigators and Sister Collins so much. So I was> transferred and they put Elders into Windcrest, which I feel really good> about because since Windcrest was split back in May their Elders Quorum has> been struggling and as much as they loved us and we loved them, they needed> Elders. So, the Lord's will has been accomplished. We left the new elders> with alot of work to do and a few baptisms, so they can't complain too> much.> So now I am in Encino Park, which is North San Antonio, the temple is> right outside of our area. Sister Snow is my beautiful companion. We were> both SHOCKED. We are both still in a state of shock that I am here. But, I> am exactly where I need to be and doing exactly what doing. The wonderful> Sister Snow is from Tewila (I know I butchered the spelling) Utah. She was> born and raised there as a Roman Catholic. And 3 years ago in December she> was baptized and has since been ostracized from her family. They are all> very anti mormon. But, she is a rock. And I love her dearly. She is a> powerful missionary. And we have been best friends since the start. And> the ward is AMAZING. Honestly they are a text-book perfect ward. So many> strong and active and loving and missionary minded families, with a> wonderful ward mission leader and wonderful ward missionaries. Bishop Long> is an incredibly inspired man and is excited about missionary work.> So pretty much I've got the best case scenario right now and I my mind is> boggled. Like I am here to just work hard and we have all the support of a> functioning ward right off the bat. And every few hours Sister Snow just> look at each other and ask if this could possibly be real. We are so> excited and so is everyone else.> So are you ready for the real kicker.... it starts a few years ago when I> met my dear friend Roxanne DeBord, who is from San Antonio. Then> progresses to when I was waiting for my call and we would always joke that I> was going to go to San Antonio and her dad would cook me dinner. So, what a> surprise it was for me to actually be called to San Antonio. Roxanne> started crying and said that I was going to go help her dad. And what comes> next, but I am now in a incredible ward, with an incredible companion who is> a convert to the church, home of Steve DeBord. I don't really know what I> am supposed to do, but I do know that I could have gone anywhere in the> entire world on my mission, but here I am in the Encino Park ward. We have> wonderful investigators and are seeing alot of miracles. And I feel like> I'm on borrowed time because it feels like a fluke that I get to be serving> with Sister Snow and because I was supposed to stay in Windcrest. But, God> knows that this is exactly what was supposed to happen and I cannot wait to> see whats coming next.> I love love love being a missionary. Everyday I thank my father in> heaven for the privilege of being a missionary. That I am able to represent> my dear Savior and invite all to come closer to Him. I don't have any set> quotas, no matter what happens as long as I am doing to will of the Lord> that's all I care about. I know He knows whats up. I know He has a plan> for us, and that his hand is in EVERYTHING. The Lord doesn't care> about time, He is all about timing. And His timing is miraculous. I love> this work. The gospel is more perfect and simple everyday.> Thanks for your love and support. Keep smiling. Christ suffered for> everything, so that we could.> Love,> Sister Rooney>> P.S. We live with members. The Thomas family and of course they all know> Roxanne, and Roxanne's mom meets in the same building as we do, I haven't> seen her yet, but I was looking for her.>> New Address:> Sister/Hermana Rooney> Care of: Thomas Family> 21122 Pacific Grove> San Antonio, TX 78259

Line Upon Line

My Dearest Family and Friends,> So, I cannot believe that it has only been a week since I emailed> last. Last Monday felt like an absolute eternity ago yet, here I am again.> Always very happy to here about the happenings going on at home. Thank you> for the updates!> Man, I don't even know what to talk about... this past week SO MANY THINGS> happened. We had the Fundamentals of Preach my Gospel Training all week> again, but with 6 of the 9 zones. 9-4 Tuesday through Friday. They were> good, but exhausting days and to not be working all that time was a little> bit of a sacrifice, that was well worth it. President did most of the> training, then the Assistants, some zone leaders and then us. We were the> last training, which we realized would be quite a challenge because it was> the last day, in the afternoon... even being attentive missionaries, we get> antsy. But, it went very well. We taught how to teach people and not> lessons. Believe it or not it can get very difficult to focus on teaching> people to their needs. It is amazing because as we prepared and studied I> realized that the very first section of preach my gospel says it best.> There are many people right now who feel a void, who are searching for> something, but they don't understand what it is or where to find it. It> goes on to say that all the answers are in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. As I> searched there wasn't a single thing that Ammon, or Alma, or Almulek, or> Christ taught that isn't in the 4 simple lessons that we teach. Its> beautiful how simple it was. Anyways we had put alot of thought and prayer> into our training... and recieved the revelation that we should have the> missionaries think about one of their family members or dear friends who is> either less active or not a member of the Church. Someone that they have> thought alot about during their time as a missionary. That they wished they> could have an opportunity to speak boldly and honestly to. Any one of us> would teach that person so differently than we might teach some random> person on the street. In the end we had them role play teaching their loved> one. They had written down a description of their loved one and the other> missionary pretended to the best of their ability to be that person. It was> incredible. We saw so many miracles. We had warned them they were going to> make them feel vulnerable, but we had no idea. The spirit was able to> direct those who were pretending to be the loved ones, so that these felt> real. Most of the missionaries were crying. It was absolutely amazing and> everyone was able to learn a different lesson about what they could improve> on. Words cannot describe the spirit that was felt there that day.> I am grateful to be a missionary. I am grateful that the Lord is SO PATIENT> with me. That even though its completely uncomfortable and not at all easy,> I am being put through the refiners fire. I am learning and growning VERY> VERY SLOWLY.> Sunday, Rocky Rivera (who is Emilee who was baptized's dad) and Edwin> and Jonathan Gadbilou were there and the ward took them in so lovingly. I am> grateful to know each of them. Each has such an earnest and sincere desire> to learn and to come closer to the Lord. Please pray for them.> Daddy: How does are ward function. What I mean is, that the Windcrest ward> is much like ours. Smallish primary, sometimes there are young women, not> enough young men to pass the sacrament. Young military couples, (Fort Sam> is in my area) who all stay for a short amount. and ALot of older retired> people. We have been meeting with the Elder Quorum and they are struggling> becuase they have very few people and alot of responsiblity. We are trying> to help them out as best we can. But, I was wondering what you do in our> ward?? To see to it that most get visited, even though there are not as> many able bodies?>> Thanks> Love Y'all> Sister Rooney

Answers to prayers

and now for this week...

My goodness, can I just say yet again how much I love first my family. And> second how much I love this WORK!!! It is amazing. I love it. And it just> always works so nicely because its the lord's work and he really has a> handle on, well EVERYTHING!! SO this is kinda silly and a little bit crazy,> but anytime that I have been on my mission and ever thought, hmm it would be> nice to have this or that...but na, I don't need it, no big deal, within> days its been just given to me. It has happen OVER and OVER. I don't ever> express it out loud or even think about it twice, but soon after I get it.> So these are little things, but they are still miracles. And we have seen> beautiful miracles everyday. Its how it works. We only use the term miracle> because we don't quite understand how it happens or works but we do know> that the Lord is taking care of it. SO before I got transferred first, I> just felt like I was getting transferred and I also felt that it would be to> a struggling ward (struggling as far as participation in the missionary> effort.) and that my purpose would be to change that. Its quite an> undertaking. And thats what it has been. The members are wonderful and> they support us, by loving us and feeding us. Their ward just split in may> and they are still recovering a little. But, there is a difference between> loving the missionaries and being missionary minded. So Friday we had> exchanges, and Sister Boyd came and she had served in windcrest for 6> months. We discussed the work and the strengths and weaknesses and the> things that we can do to help. It was so helpful. As we talked we realized> that this little ward has had so many baptisms in the past years that it has> ceased to be a miracle and started to be a burden. SO these beautiful and> excited members are falling through the cracks.> I have realized that indeed the Prophet is inspired, (shocker) but the> recent converts for at least the first few years they NEED the direction and> guidance. They need good friends to be the example of how us strange and> peculiar people live and they need to have their spiritual witnesses they> received in order to want to be baptism increased and supported through the> nourishment of the good word of God and they'll feel included and involved> when they are given a calling. We need good home teachers and visiting> teachers to also be apart of the support system. The organization of the> church is PERFECT. So this hasn't really been happening in this ward. And> we realized that the Bishop (DADDY) sets the tone of missionary work for the> ward. They can be the greatest motivation. The ward should be striving to> meet their own ward baptism goals, aside from the people the missionaries> meet and they should feel ownership for those investigators as well. And it> should be recognized that the new converts or less actives who come to> church need ALOT of love and direction. They are making such HUGE life> changes and its just the norm for us.> SO the miracle. Bishop Coopwood is amazing, but we realized there was a big> gap between us and the ward went and there were many things that could be> improved. I wasn't sure how it would be done because Bishop had been in for> a while, but I knew if the Lord asked for it, it could be done. So we've> been praying and fasting and praying and discussing and praying some more> about what we could possibly do... and on Sunday (and please don't take this> like I don't love and have the up most respect for the Bishop) but BIshop> Coopwood was released. And Bishop Orgull, the former counselor to the> Mission President, was called as the Bishop. I have probably cried 3 times> my whole mission because I just smile when I feel the spirit and when good> things happen, but I started crying. I know that there are a million reasons> why that happened and I know it wasn't just a result of my prayers, but I am> so thankful. I know the Lord answers prayers. I know that there are> beautiful people everywhere who are ready. And I know that when those ready> people change their lives and take the steps necessary we need to take them> in and love them with all we've got.>> MY heart goes out to the Berkline family. But, I can't even imagine how> many people were waiting for her up there, most especially Br. B!!! And I> know she probably has the hosts of heaven rolling with laughter already.> Maybe in all that resting they're doing they've been needing a good laugh.> I love her. And I am glad that she has been reunited with dear husband. I> am so thankful for the plan of salvation.>>> Love all y'all> Sister Rooney>> p.s. Roxanne's Dad sent me a package this week! He's wonderful.> P.S.S. Pray for me... President asked us to teach one of the lessons for> the leadership training conference this week. I'll be teaching 9 of the 11> zones on Friday about the importance of teaching people and not lessons.> P.s. We are at a members house and they are wonderful they've made us> smoothies while we are typing and they are making us shrimp and salmon> and sautéed veges and letting us do our laundry.

By Small and Simple Things...

hello my dear family and friends,> Wasn't conference wonderful. I am so grateful for prophets and apostles on> the earth who can tell us what we need to learn and hear and DO, in our> lives. Today I was reading in alma 37 and I felt that it would be the topic> for this email. It is a beautiful chapter of a father counseling his son.> After he tells him of his testimony and his life changing experiences in> chapter 36. Chapter 37 first focused on the importance of the scriptures.> How at that point the scirptures had already been the means of convincing> thousands of their brethern the Lamanites, of the error of the traditions of> their fathers and brought them to rejoice in the knowledge of their Lord and> Savior. He went on to explain to Helaman that their writting would be used> for a wise purpose for the future generations and that he doesn't even> know how great an impact it would have on the future generations for whom it> is written, but that it would be great. AND oh how great it has been.> The Book of Mormon was perserved and has been the means of bringing millions> and then with genealogy billions to the knowledge of their Lord and Savior,> to partake in the rich blessings that Our dear Father in heaven has in store> for all the faithful that will humbly follow His example.> But what impressed me most about this chapter this morning was the cousel> in verses 38-47 about the Liahona. and how "it is as easy for us today to> give heed to the word of Christ, which will point to you a straight course> to ETERNAL BLISS, as it was for our fathers to give heed to this compass> which would point unto them a straight course to the promised land"(v44).> BUT we must NOT be slothful because of the easiness of the way, as it was> for those in the times of moses that if they would BUT look they would> live. YET MANY PERISHED. or as it was for captian naaman to be healed by> washing in the river joradan. It is by the small and simple things that> great things are brought to pass (v.6) Please I urge each of you to take> the cousel of our dear prophet and apostles. How many of them asked us> to study the scriptures and to have sincere heart felt prayer, not only by> ourselves but as well in our families. It is an easy thing. It doesn't> take much time. Do not be slothful because of the easiness of the way. The> temporal and eternal bliss is worth it. I meet beautiful people every day> who have not been taught these precious truths who when they begin to> implement it see the dramatic changes that occur in their lives. We have> all been taught these things over and over, it is for a reason. I love you> all. I say these things because of my own weakness' and I pray that you may> each do what you know you should.>> I love being a missionary.. this is the greatest work because it is the work> of God. The one and only true LIVING God. He is real. I know He is, I see> miracles everyday. I know He wants us to be happy. All I want is for each> of you to be happy. So use your free agency wisely!>> Love> Sister Rooney

A Heart full of Gratitude

My dearest Family and Friends> I am just sitting here in the library, full of emotion. Full of the> absolute gratitude that I have in my heart for all my many blessings. I can> not adequately express in words the peace and joy I feel with knowing that> my family is doing wonderfully. I have lately contemplated much on the> great blessing of being a member of my beautiful family. Which each day I> am more and more grateful for the personalities and strengths and love that> each one of you has. I would not be the same without you. Today I know that> Heavenly Father is taking extra special care of you. I see so much here. I> see the suffering and the sadness of wrong decisions and how it lasts for> generations, yet because of you mom and dad and your examples and sacrifice> and dedication to our family and to the Lord, we have been sheltered. We> have been able to grow up emotionally physically and spiritually fed. And we> are who we are today because of you. I don't know how you have done it, but> I hope and pray that I can live up to half of who you are and what you> represent to me. Thank you.> This week has been another beautiful week in missionary work. My dear> companion is one of those who has really suffered in her life. Her parents> divorced by the time she was 5 and her dad was excommunicated, and only a> few years ago was rebaptized. Her mother was ill with cancer for most of> her high school years and then passed away after her freshman year of> college. Most of her siblings are not active and she, the youngest is the> first since her father to serve a mission. We are really learning from one> another how to do this work in this area. And I am grateful for such an> opportunity. There are families all around that have similar circumstances,> so many in this ward come alone to church because their spouses are less> active. Many have never left the San Antonio area. And to see their> strength and dedicated service to the Lord is humbling. I love these> people, so much. There is a beautiful recent convert who suffered from a> stroke and could barely speak when the sisters found her. They taught her to> speak and to read. She had not known Jesus Christ and now we sit there as> she struggles through verses with the biggest smile and greatest sense of> gratitude and joy. She does everything in the name of Jesus, she even> answers her phone that way. It has made me think about my life a lot. For> all I have taken for granted. For the silly things that I let bother me,> when all I should be doing night and day is praising my God for the life> that I have.> How incredible was it to see the family from Abundancia in the General> Relief Society broadcast. Their story is one of millions of dedicated> saints of God. I am sure that we saw their family when we visited, if not> met them personally. It made the story all the more precious and personal.> Emilee Rivera was baptized yesterday, she is nine. She is so sharp and so> intune and she was jumping for joy about being baptized. She adequately> understood how precious that day was for her. When she would be recieving> the gift of the holy ghost. I believe we as members can sometimes take for> granted this precious knowledge that we have. We have it all. We have a> knowledge of our lord and Savior and through the restored church of Jesus> Christ have full-access to His atonement. The fullness of the gospel is> back. And we are the chosen and blessed people who are here to prepare for> the day of His coming. What an honor, what a privledge, what a> responsibility. I can not wait for the day that I can thank my Savior in> person for all that He has done for me and everyone I love. For these people> who suffer more than I ever could handle. What peace I have that they can> find comfort and peace and calm through the storms of their lives. I know> that anyone who will turn to Him and repent can have the blessings of> eternity. How glorious is His plan.> I love you all so much. I am thankful for your examples and your service and> your patience with me. Have a wonderful week.>> Love your Sister Rooney

New and Wonderful!!!

Well hello hello everyone,> First, HOW COOL was the MTC young men's conference (a little sexist I think,> cause girls should have a similar experience too because we need more> sisters in the ranks). It sounded like a good solid experience for everyone> involved. Our stake rocks, I can only imagine how excited the missionaries> in your area were to see such a solid focus on this great and most important> work. ANd I do wish that I could have seen Sean in all his wisdom tooth> extraction glory. Although Cam I'll be honest I am glad I didn't have to be> the one road tripping with him.> My impractical suitcases> I am now emailing from San Antonio. I packed up my oh so impractical wish I> would have listened to my dad and gotten bigger suitcases and I am now> serving in Windcrest and oh my goodness what a change it is. There is only> one area for sister missionaries in urban San Antonio proper and this is> it. It is very very poor and there is both spanish and english in the ward,> so I have already in these past few days used more spanish than in my last> two areas combined. There are even a few parts of our area that we really> try to avoid at nights, which is a drastic change from the ultimate suburbia> of Round Rock 7th safest city in the country. It is so fun though, I> already love it with all my heart.> It is so incredible to me how much for thought and revelation goes into> this work, during the leadership training confeence that we had, I was> staying the nights in this area, so I had already met the Bishop and Relief> Society president and other investigators and less actives. Leaving Old> Settlers was absolutely devastating for me, so many people that I had come> to love so deeply. I recieved flowers and notes and so many hugs and tears.> And so when I got here, it was mentally a emotionally hard to have a new> companion and a new ward. (My companion is Sister Collins, I am her> step-mom, which means I'm her second companion. She's from Seattle,> Washington and studied at NYU) But, as I have come to meet more and more> people I know this is where I belong. Its interesting to come in and see> the people and how much they miss the sister that just left. It makes me> think of my investigators, and all I want for them is for the new sister to> be awesome and to love them and work her hardest. And so that is what I am> doing for them. I love them and going to give them everything I've got,> because they deserve it, because they are children of God.> There is this beautiful little girl Emilee getting baptized on Sunday. ANd> I actually taught her when I was here a few weeks ago. Her mom is a less> active and was so nervous about the change and so she was so relieved to see> me on thursday. The Lord's hand is in everything. The work is booming and> the people are so humble and so loving. I love this work. It is a little bit> uncomfortable, but it is in these times we learn and grow the most.> I have no doubt this is where I am supposed to be.> Before I left I remember that Bishop said something that really struck> me. He said that he loved his mission, but the past two years were the best> of his life. and he said that after next year it'll be the past year and> that year. That is the way I feel about the mission. Every new companion,> will be my new favorite and every area my new favorite. I believe that if> we look forward to the future with an eye of faith and hope then we will> continue to increase in happiness and joy. We are meant to progress. Line> upon line, precept upon precept, joy upon joy, and we stay close to heavenly> father we'll always be able to say these two have been the best two years of> my life.>> I pray for all of you and I am so thankful for all of you and your> support!!> love> Sister Kimi Rooney>> New address:> 6700 N. Vandiver Rd. #905> San Antonio TX 78209

Onward and Upward

I am truly humbled by the amazing blessing that I continually recieve. I> know without a doubt that Heavenly Father really is taking care of things at> home, yes, better than I could and I don't deserve it, but I am so grateful.> I am grateful for the love and support and strength that I continue to> recieve from everyone and I couldn't be anymore proud of any of you! Thank> you thank you thank you, for your righteous examples and the testimonies> that you share with me. The church is in fact the truth. And any person> with an open heart and with real intent can and will recieve the same> witness.> Old Settlers is absolutely taking off. Ben, Sandra and Phillip, if> baptismal interviews all go well, will be baptized this Saturday!! Please> pray for them. I love them more than anything in the world. Its> interesting to look back on the first time we talked to them, which was our> 3rd day in the area. They were so nice and so open and it has continued> that way up until this point. Even, Robert, whom we call Grandpa Bush said> he's going to start coming to chuch (BIG DEAL cause he's always said he> wouldn't come) because he's out numbered. All his family goes, so he might> as well. And its been wonderful, because we have been able to start really> utilizing the members. They are all incredible, and they really make all the> difference in the world. Stella is also doing so great. She has 3 chinese> Books of Mormon, and at church this sunday she took 30 article of faith> cards cause she is going to go to China for two weeks at the end of the> month and she is going to give them to all her friends. We had an> incredible lesson with her where we went through Alma 22 and said you are> King Lamoni's father and we are Aaron. She is practically a member, she is> even going to the 5 hour enrichment activity this thursday. She just thinks> that she has to not have a doubt in her mind and that she has to know> everything, before she can get baptized. Her faith is strong, she is> wonderful and she'll be baptized soon.> I continue to be blown away because we find new amazing people every> single day. I know that there are many in our land, whether its in texas,> california, china, south america, yes even Utah that are being prepared by> angels at this time (alma 13:24) and these prepared people are kept from the> truth because KNOW NOT WHERE TO FIND IT. But, the Lord isn't hiding them> from us. If we are searching them out, taking the opportunities presented> to us, the Lord will place them in our paths (most especially members paths)> because he knows that he can trust us. He knows that we will be the example> of Christ-like living. I know that if we will, but open our mouth and just> show our love for all around, that they will be attracted to it, they will> desire the same happiness for themselves. And yes we do love and respect> everyone for their beliefs, but BECAUSE we love and respect them we share> our joy with them. At that point they choose for themselves. So don't let> those moments pass you by. If there is someone you feel like you should> call, mormon or not, do it. The Lord answers prayers through other people.> The spirit is prompting you because those people need your love and your> testimony. Who could be offended by that. No one.> The members really do take such good care of us. This week I got a flat> and so we left our bikes at a members home. and we were going to go see> bishop that night. when he found out, he who had went to a youth temple trip> then on his way from working on their land, went and picked up our bikes,> fixed them, picked us up, we met with us, gave us fresh fruit from their> farm and then gave us a ride home. and thats just one thing, so many> different families take care of us just that well. We don't deserve it. Even> our investigators, love and take care of us and worry about us. They are> all too good too us. ( maybe we put off this damsel in distress vibe, I> don't know where it comes from cause we don't complain, but if we don't let> them give us a ride even down the street they get mad cause they want to> take care of us)> I have decided that I don't have to worry about becoming this incredible> missionary, hear me out okay... because the Lord has given me and you all> the tools we need to reach our potencial selves. If we live the gospel> principles set out for us. We don't have to worry every moment that we are> as good as we should be, because we WILL get there. We WILL become the> person and end up where we want to end up if we keep doing the small and> simple things. Yes if we look at how far we have to travel to get there its> overwhelming. But, for example Rachel is graduating this week> (CONGRATULATIONS by the way!!!!) if when she was in Kindergarten thought> about all the homework assignments, projects, test, etc.. that she was going> to have to do in order to arrive where she is today. she would have given up> on the spot. It was a long and arduous journey, but look at her she's made> it! So stop worrying so much. Do little things every day. Every week and> you'll by virtue of the promise that the Lord has made to us, you will> prosper in the land. And it is by obedience that all blessings are> predicated. Think about it. Heavenly father's whole work in to help us to> be happy, he sees the bigger picture, he wants to bless us more than> anything in the world. But, if you are sinning and not repenting then He> has to instead help you understand what true happiness is, through a> humbling experience. He would rather just shower you with blessing,> but He's working towards your immortality and eternal life here. Progression> is the point. He has told us if you do these things you'll progress and> you'll be blessed and happy, but sometimes we get on our high horse and> think for some crazy reason that we know better the the ALL KNOWING. THats> just silly of us. But, we learn. And all of us have the mercy and comfort of> the atonement of our Savior while we continue to make mistakes and learn and> grow. So remember He is anxious to bless us, and anytime we do something> good we are in fact blessed!! So just in submiting your will to His, you> are awknowledging that He understands your happiness better than you do, and> YOU WILL BE HAPPY!! Isn't it just so simple and wonderful! I love it! So> keep going!! YOu've got it!! He loves you, His son loves you, they> are rooting for you success and so am I!> Have a great week!> Love> Your Sister Kimi Michelle Rooney

Let the adventures continue!

Well Hello Everyone,> (I am emailing from the library and there is a man snoring SUPER loud and i> can't stop laughing, so if this email isn't coherent I blame snoring man.)> It sounds like my family is just off adventuring... which is the way it> should be! Mom and Cami I hope everything went well on the way to Canada> and even though it is a sad occasion that you enjoy yourselves! I'm not> surprised for even a moment you got lost though. Just the other day I was> telling Sister Larsen how somehow it was just us three on the way to girls> camp and we stopped at the outlets and said we would tell everyone that we got> lost, and then we did get lost and ended up in the mountains on this one way> road with a 100 foot cliff about 3 ft to our left. I still don't know how> we survived... probably cause Heavenly Father had other plans that he> wouldn't allow be frustrated by our lack of sanity. ANd KYLE IS ON THE ROAD> NOW EVERYONE WATCH OUT! Congrats bud..even though I am fairly certain> you've been driving as long as me some how! Now just try not to crash the> car... Really cool that your going to get your Ham radio license, even> though I don't have a clue really what that means. Do people still use> those or is it a time of emergencies type of thing. Regardless, I feel very> confident saying that mine is the coolest family on earth. Have fun in> Virginia! Tell me all about it!> Well as for me... I do my own version of adventuring. The best> adventuring, even though I don't really leave a 20 square mile area. Things> are absolutely spectacular. I can't even tell you everything, because> although I know I write SUPER long emails, there just isn't the time or the> space. It continues to boggle my mind how this all works. I think that> Mosiah 4:9 is correct though. There are just things that we cannot> comprehend, but God's hand is IN everything. And if you don't believe then> you need to say a prayer and ask for the eyes to see all the great miracles> that are happening in your lives. And its so much bigger than me and you> and this area. It is so integrated it is incomprehensible. I love this> work and feel absolutely privledged to be here.> I had been feeling so very inadequate (just for a few days, Heavenly> Father works quick) because I am just not who I want to be. My district> leader is wonderful and he pushes us, but I was feeling that I wasn't doing> anything right. We are teaching so many lessons and talking to so many> people, but I just felt that if there was a more experienced missionary here> that things would be progressing even more quickly. And then Bishop Parker> called (who is the most amazing man (except you daddy) that I think I have> ever met, so inspired) and as we were updating him about whats going on, he> just started going off about how the ward is just raving about us, and that> every home we enter and every family we meet, just feels the power of our> spirit and that the message and committments we leave are exactly what they> needed. And how there have been people that haven't wanted anything to do> with the church who have lovingly let us into their home and started to come> back to church. Miracles like they have never seen are happening. ANd he> knows that we are both supposed to be here and that its wonderful that we> are both so young in the mission because we are following the spirit rather> than our own knowledge (which we don't really have anyways). As silly as it> may sound it was the greatest tender mercy to know that we were doing things> right and that although we are going to continue to learn and be the best> missionaries that we can be that Heavenly Father knows what he's doing> (obvious i know) and that we are supposed to be here together at this very> time in our missions. And we have confirmation of that every single day. We> are teaching so many wonderful people who as great as i know they were,> just weren't receptive to the elders. (SO SISTERS GET OUT ON MISSIONS!!!)> There are so many cool people in this area that just shower down their love> for us, there isn't room enough to recieve it all. I love this work with> all my heart. And I am so thankful for sister Larsen and her obedience and> hard work. It just feels so good to work hard.> And don't you worry we are back on the bikes and its as funny as ever.> Yes, we have a new car, but we only have a certain number of miles. so I> ignorantly enough just assumed that I would have roughly the same miles as> my last area. 950, which if that were true we would be pushin it a little.> Well on the 14 I called just to double check, and we were on our way to> district meeting with come elders who work close by, and I ask the elder who> works in the office and said some absurdly low number "650" and I thought I> must have heard wrong and it was kinda loud in the car so I asked again,> "wait how many" and he said "650" and I thought for sure I must be hearing> it wrong "sorry elder its rather loud in the car, just one more time, how> many miles?" says each number "6-5-0" Me: " oh, okay thanks" We had already> used 450 miles for the month! So needless to say we got the bikes from> Brushy Creek and Sister Larsen and I have been experiencing the whole biking> thing again. Which I'll admit is an absolute riot. Yeah its super hot and> we get gross and SUPER sweaty, (I'll have to send you this picture of sister> larsen..), and seeing our oh so attractive knee highs closely followed by> our garments is just quite a sight. (we're just hoping they think they are> white biker shorts) The entire area now knows that the sisters have> replaced the elders. It is so much fun. I absolutely love it! I just laugh> the entire time. And i really don't mind the heat! I don't think sister> Larsen likes it quite as much, but she's a good sport. And Cami, my respect> goes up for you with every pedal of my bike. And I have decided that hills> are kinda like life. as soon you get up one, especially when you first saw> it you thought there was no way you were going to make it up it, you get to> feel the joy of riding down it, knowing that its a tender mercy of the Lord> and then immediately another upward slope. But, as you keep going, you> build muscle that makes it a little easier to do the next time and then you> get water which nourishes you so you don't pass out. But, thats just one> day, if you stop riding the bike then you loose your muscle and although you> could do it pretty well once, it dosn't matter cause you've got to start> from scratch, again, which is hard. But, once you get back on your game> you realize you like it better that way anyways. The gospel is no different> than the laws of life. It doesn't make sense that having faith in Christ> would be a one time experience that will just magically get you to heaven> after accepting him once. You can't just ride your bike once and magically> be able to win the race. It takes work. Satan has blinded us into thinking> otherwise. Into luring us into this false sense of security, making the> easiness of the way so attractive. BUT NOTHING IN LIFE WORKS LIKE THAT, why> would your eternal salvation, the most important thing, the purpose of this> life, be different. It would not! If at any point we feel like we have> arrived and then go back and check your sources. Progression is the point.> We always say "good thing its true" or else this so wouldn't be worth it.> But, it is true. All of it. Its all true. We do have a loving heavenly> father who cares about us SO much that since the foundation of time, he> created a plan for us to return to him. Jesus Christ is the only way. But> we have to choose it. We have to choose happiness and peace! It is true!> And it makes me so happy!! And it makes everyone happy. Isn't that just so> wonderful!!!> SO be happy!> Love your> Sister Kimi Rooney>> p.s. Sister Derenthal just told me that two of the less active sisters we> had been working with who hadn't been to church in 20 years, have been> going!!!! AND Shawn passed the sacrament for the fist time on> sunday!!!!!!!!!!! This work is so WONDERFUL!!!>> p.s.s Nate gets home from his mission tomorrow! Sorry Nate thats rough, but> as cliche as this sounds job well done!!

NEW and MIRACULOUS!!!

Hey guys!!> So to start off with I can't explain in words how wonderful everything is!> God is great and I literally feel like I am being blessed so much that I> don't have room enough to recieve it!> So, Wednesday I went down to San Antonio for training on how to train from> President Cutler and the Assistants. And it was wonderful, I think what I> took away from it was absolute peace and sense of the responsilibility that> was being put on my shoulders. I think the most profound lesson was that> many are called but few are chosen. And it is so true many of us have been> called by God to do different things, whether it be to be Bishops,> missionaries, young womens advisor, ward missionaries, teachers, etc... BUT> we have to chose to be chosen. I know that sounds funny, but thats how God> works. He gives us commandments and scriptures and prophets so that if WE> so choose, they can be great blessings to us. ANd also that as we live> righteously and step up to the plate in a sense that He can continue blessing> us, but we have to choose to be chosen. WE have to choose to answer the> call that we have been given, and when we trust in God in all things, then> He will strengthen us and mold us and we will learn those life changing> lessons.> So Thursday was transfers. And going into them I had no idea how I was> going to do it, but I did know and I do know that the Lord had called me to> do it and that if He had confidence in me and was going to stand by me that> I could do anything. So When my soon-to-be new companion walked in I knew> before it was announced that she was it. Her name is Sister Larsen and she> is from Boise ID. ANd she is WONDERFUL!!!! I absolutely love her. She> lived in Ecuador for a total for 10 months working in Orphanages and so her> spanish is better than mine. Which meant that she was in the advanced> Spanish group and that she is seriously fresh in the missionary life. 3> weeks is all. So the Old Settlers Area was on bikes and being that we are> sisters we were getting a car. (I had to pass a defensive driving course in> order to drive, I'll be good) And so we were taken to the Ford dealership> and I drove a brand new 2010 Ford fusion off the lot. (yeah I am a little> nervous and no that is not at all common, but none of this is)> Anyways, she is great, she said she was going to be a little awkward at> first, but don't worry thats almost all gone. She is such a hard worker and> completely obedient. SHe is such a blessing to me. She was a little> nervous when President told her that I was only 2 transfer, but I think> she's okay now.> SO pretty much there have been NON STOP MIRACLES SINCE THE MOMENT THAT WE> ARRIVED HERE!! We immediately met the Ward Mission Leader and the Bishop.> THis area was supposedly dead, but people are just falling out of the woodwork.> To the point that we have to seriously be effective in our planning> or else we wont be able to teach and meet all the people that we need to.> I can't even put it into words. WE probably have 20 people to teach> that are solid and we keep finding more and more people everyday. We have> already gotten farther with some less actives and part member families than> the Bishop has ever seen!!! And all the members are just giving us many> referrals of FAMILIES and they are willing to pray with us to see how best> to start teaching them!!! (I have only gotten 1 since I have been out before> this) ANd its so funny cause there have only been elders here for as far> back as I've heard at least 5 years maybe more so many of the kids and> families have never seen sister missionaries here. And they are so warm and> loving. My new district leader Elder Seymour was in awe as well as I have> been by the absolute miracles that have just been pouring down upon us and> this area. Both he and my companion and I have saying prayers of gratitde> for the mulitudes of blessings and we'll be doing a fast of thanks this> sunday. I just want to tell you about everyone we're going to be teaching> but there are too many.> And sister Larsen and I have the same work ethic, which for as much as I> loved sister Derenthal, is refreshing. Neither of us see the point to> taking an hour for lunch when it takes 10 minutes to eat. And we are taking> p-day and our nights to do serious planning and organizing because we don't> want to waste our time inside during the week!!!! THIS IS SO AWESOME!!! We> are already such a team. ANd we are exactly obedient in all things and we> are just seeing the heaven open.> We gained the Bishops trust and support within the first visit. We already> went through the ward list with him and he gave us a million people to go> see, many part member who are opening up. I don't understand how having> sisters here, has changed everything, but I do know that we are supposed to> be here. I know that the Lord has a plan for us. I have no doubts and> although we are to work diligently and obediently that we really don't have> anything to do with the miracles and blessings. I just feel honored that I> get to see it, be a bystandard to the greatness of God. This is the true> church of God. I know that without a doubt in my mind. I know that everyone> is searching and yearning for the complete peace and happiness from living> the way that we were meant to live. And I know that God's is preparing the> hearts of the sincere seekers of truth to recieve it, EVERYWHERE. WHether> it is in SOuth AMerica, Europe, Orange COunty, or ROund ROck Texas, there> are people who are prepared and God has a plan for both me and you in> bringing those souls back to Him.> THank you to each of you and your support for me as I am out here. It means> the world to me. I couldn't have even imagine the exquisite joy that I feel> now and that is something that each one of you can have. Through scripture> study, sincere prayer, church participation and SERVICE. Living the> principle, actually doing the things you know are right. THATS WHAT ITS ALL> ABOUT!!>> I LOVE EVERY ONE OF YOU!!!> Your Sister Rooney

Always More Work to Do in the Building up of the Kingdom.

Hey,> Sorry, I forgot to tell you that its transfer week and therefore Tuesday> P-day. Its just how it works. So I didn't forget to write and I hope you> got more than a ps last week. Sorry. Daddy I am SO proud of you for taking> a nap!! I don't that I have ever known that to happen unless you were so> sick that your free agency was taken from you and you just passed out!! I'm> also very glad to hear that the backyard is coming along!! How's the> fireplace looking? Could you attach some pictures of it for me?? Thanks> Oh and where in Ohio are they from?? Thats where my trainer Sister> Derenthal is from. Cincinnati! And the church isn't too big over there.> She's in the Cincinnati Stake.> SO its been an eventful week as always in the service of the Lord. I got a> typewritter for $15 at the ROund Rock Serving Center that we volunteer at> and a member in my ward is going to order the ink ribbon thing for it... no> more hand writting letters. Its SO cute. And not that important, but still> fun. Dad I know I know I'm on a mission, BUT I'm going to be using it once a> week and its just so cute so I thought it through and although sister> Derenthal thought I was crazy at first I decided it was a good investment> even though I don't really have room in my very cute vintage but kinda small> luggage. SIster Derenthal has been continuing the fight of trying to teach> me how to be practical. But, I think the problems come in when we have two> very different definitions of practical.> Funny story: So we have been working with a lot of inactive sisters lately and> seen absolute miracles in actually being able to get in doors and into hearts> that have been closed for LONG periods of time. SO one sister just kicked> out her non-member boyfriend and we went over to help her clean out and deep> clean her house which she actually hadn't done even when they moved in 2> years ago (yes, I am grateful for weekly chores) Anyways she had her two> boys go into their room, while she gave us a disclaimer. The night before> she found a WOLF SPIDER in her bathroom. That was still there cause she was> too scared to kill it and when her 7 year old son went in to get it in the> morning IT WAS NO WHERE TO BE FOUND!! And that as she has been cleaning> their house they have been disturbing their comfy habitat. And that they> liked dark enclosed spaces. SO guess where we began... THE CLOSET. So> needless to say that although I think I have come a long way in the spider> department, I was a little bit nervous. So as we were taking stuff out,> there was a smaller spider and I calmly asked sister derenthal to kill it.> She told me that I was not allowed to scream unless it was bigger that a> quarter. I agreed. So then 30 seconds later, I ran away screaming. I have> never been so terrified in my life. I saw the biggest spider I have ever> seen...and it was ALIVE!!!!!! Sister Derenthal was even freaked out. SO we> called Ian her 7 year old son and sister Mitchell said, now Ian strike hard> and strike fast and kill it the first time. Well He didn't get it the first> time. THe GIGANTIC spider came running out of the closet and I was> instantly up on a chair. He got it, the brave little kid. But, it was> pretty much a near death experience. So I owe my life to a 7 year old!> Oh and I thought I was on a mission, but I keep having visitors so I am> starting to doubt it a little bit. I saw Sister McFerson on Saturday and it> was fun. But, its weird cause I have gotten so close to my ward here that it> kinda just felt like we were eating doughnuts (yes moma doughnuts) with just> another member of the Brushy Creek ward. And Momma she gave me the stuff.> And I love you, but I realize where I get the impratical stuff from. The> shoes were definately cute, but there is no way I can where bright yellow> open toe shoes or bright pink shoes. So I am going to be sending them> home. But, thanks for the thought!! I loved it.> Oh and a woman from Iran named Pershia (she changed her name from Vita to> Pershia) is going to be calling you. She joined the church in Germany like> 20 years ago, but she didn't know it was here. ANd she does the hair of a> member of the church and they made the connection. ANd the Elders from the> ward she'll belong to asked if I could go visit her and it was wonderful.> She was so perfectly persian. And she really wants to talk to you... And> could you send me my Book of Mormon in Farsi? I am going to give it to her.> English is still hard for her to read.> SO we went to visit Patrick and I can't contain my joy to see the change> that has taken place. We were almost laughing because he couldn't stop> smiling. We walk in and he was COOKING!!! and he had put pictures up in> his place and he couldn't stop smiling. I have never seen a happier person> in my life. THAT IS THE GOSPEL IN ACTION! He said that he was talking to a> lady at work and she asked him why he was so happy. He kinda told her his> story and that he had gotten baptized and stuff. And she was like thats> amazing, what church did you get baptized into? And he said the Mormon> church And her mouth dropped open. SHe was shocked!! He said it was the> funniest thing. He is a perfect example for me that although things aren't> perfect, he's been wating for his wife and she's just been messing with him,> so he's done and work isn't perfect, but he is PERFECTLY happy. He knows> what its like to live without the spirit and sometimes it takes the> perspective of someone else to make you realize how blessed you have truly> been to have that with you always. DON'T TAKE IT FOR GRANTED!! SHow your> gratitude for heavenly father for the blessing of the gospel and the access> to constant companionship of the spirit. I'm here for Patrick I am here for> the Lord I will continue doing everything I can to help people who are> searching to find him. THere is NO GREATER WORK IN THE WORLD. ANd I am> humbled and grateful that He loves me for who I am and is patient with me> through my weakness. I finished the book of mormon and I was really touched> my Moroni's insecurities in his writting. Because he knew how important it> was he was scared that his weakness' would minimize the importance of its> meaning for our generation. But, then came some of the most beautiful> scripture Ether 12:27 The Lord gives us weakness' to help us to be humble,> but through Him weakness' can be made stong. And Ether was comforted by> that.> This was an important thing for me to realize because this next transfer is> going to be character building, very humbling and its going to bring me even> closer to my Savior than I have ever been. President called last night and> told sister Derenthal that she was going to be staying in Brushy Creek and> training again. Which meant that I would of course be leaving this ward and> my companion that are now a part of me. Then President told me that I would> be getting doubled in to a new area. They are taking the Elders out of a> struggling area and putting sisters in and not only that, but he asked me to> train. I said that if he was asking me to do that I knew that I could and> that of course I would do it. So, I am very humbled by this oppotunity that> the Lord has put in front of me. But, He has been preparing my heart and> mind for a while. I wasn't shocked because I knew in my heart that I would> be training. But, I feel a little like Moses or Isaiah, when called to do> something I am not quite sure how I am going to do. I am the youngest> sister in the mission. I am with my trainer and there is SO MUCH I don't know,> and now I will be training and going to a completely new area! But, I know> whom the Lord calls he qualifies so I am excited for the things I will be> learning in the time to come. BUt your prayers would be MUCH appreciated.> I'll get her this thursday and Im actually going to be taking my District> Leaders area so Sister Derenthal and I will stay in the same district.> Which in many ways none of these things ever happen, but the Lord is with me> and although I AM WEAK, with Him I can do all things!>> Well till next monday!> Sister Rooney

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!!!!!

Hey everyone!!> From the sounds of things everything is going well, which makes me happy but> doesn't surprise. Of course everything is going well the Lord promised me> that He'd bless my family while I served Him and He keeps His promises!!> Dad I am impressed with your effort in the backyard. I think it'll be done> before I get home! THats great! Kyle I hope finishing up your> sophomore year goes well. Good luck with finals and everything. Study hard> cause whether or not you believe it right now, it does matter. I am a> little jealous that your working at the YMCA and get to be in your bathing> suits all the time. But, not all that much. I e-mailed from the library and> there are three little boys like 8 years old sitting next to me playing war> craft and it makes me laugh and remember when Cami would play it at about> the same age.> Anyways everything here truly couldn't be ANY more MAGICAL and wonderful.> Mom's right I do live in this nice little dream world of sunshine (with> humidity) and wildflowers (which are starting to die because of the intense> sunshine) and I love it!! Patrick was baptized on saturday by Brother Rebstock> who has only been a memeber for about a year and a half. So it was his> first time baptizing which made it even more special. It was amazing. We> decided to spare Patrick and the ward members of our singing this time> around. And afterwards we went over to the Turley's and had homemade pizza> and ice cream and Zoo (his daughter came and loved it) It actually reminded> me of all the little girls a little cause these little girls invited us to> their talent show outside invitations and all. It was cute. But, most> importantly the more I have gotten know Patrick the more I understand a> little more of the love of God and how God truly loves all his children. He> is VERY mindful more than any of us can truly comprehend of our> circumstances. If we are humble he will guide us to Him and to true> happiness, which is what I am experiencing now.> I am so grateful to be in this INCREDIBLE area. President Cutler talks> about how the Lord is preparing us to be the fututre leaders of His church.> His plan is so much greater than what we see. I know that I was meant to> serve here with Sister Derenthal and yes in this middle class predominately> white area in the middle of suburbia speaking english, yes mom even speaking> english because that is honestly where I came from. I see my family and my> friends in this demographic. And I see the challenges that people face, and> the lack of faith that can come to even return missionaries. Because that> kind of missionary work can only happen in South America or something like> that. I can see first hand the benefits of home teaching and visiting> teaching, in a way that Im not sure I would have been able to really see as> my future (I'm also planning to live in other countries too, but you get> it!)> Sister Derenthal and I have made a goal to read the Book of Mormon in this> transfer and its been so amazing to get a little bit more of the big> picture. To watch the people come unto Christ and then fall and then repent> and fall and to see the excuses and the hardened hearts. I guess to see the> hand of the Lord in all things as well as the hand of Satan. Examples to> follow and warnings of what can happen when you let your guard down. Its> pretty funny, but yesterday I got pretty heated after I had read 3 Nephi> 3 of Giddianhi's epistle to Lachoneus. I was ticked that such an evil man> would say such blatant lies and be so evil. Sister DErenthal was laughing> at me. But, I guess what I love most from what I read that even when people> are evil and wicked the Lord sends prophets to them and begs them to> repent and come unto God. His hand is ALWAYS stretched out! Repentance is> the greatest blessing we have. We haven't been asked to be perfect, only to> progress. To keep trying.> As I have been here and served with Sister DErenthal I have truly been able> to understand that concept more than any other. We are WEAK!!! we are not> perfect, YET the Lord works through us because our hearts are in the right> place. Isn't that incredible. Also that the Lord needs me to be me. He> needs me to progress and be better, but to use my words from my heart as He> gives them to me to help others. We have had absolute miracles happen> especially with many less-active members. And even if they have been> inactive since they were 13 they still have certain values and truths and> voids they can't get away from. You want to know why? BECAUSE ITS> TRUE!!!! You can't get away from it because you can feel it. ITS TRUE.> Less- Actives who don't accept home teachers or visiting teacher or any> contact with the church have been asking us to come back and accepting> invitations to read the book of mormon and to let God back into their> lives. Is there anything better. And I know its because they can feel that> we are doing it out of love. We are not here to judge or guilt trip only to> let them know that their Father in Heaven loves them and that true happiness> is in the gospel. Gosh I know its amazing!!> I am thankful for you guys. Especially for my family. I am thankful for> the sincerity and Christ-like love you have for me. Our families aren't> perfect (but I think ours is as close as it gets) but that whats so> beautiful about it God uses us to bless and build our family (immediate,> extended, ward, stake) even through our weakness'. It doesn't mean we> shouldn't continue to work a little harder. But, we don't need to get down> about it because man are we blessed! I know I could have only made it> through my life up until this point because of the incredible examples of my> parents who taught me through their actions about love for everyone, devtion> to the lord and diligence. THANK YOU!!!!> Love> Your sister ROoney>> GOd loves you exactly the way you are, but let Him turn you into the person> you have the potencial to come!!>> P.s. just in case you think I'm boring my district leader said the other> night. "wow I didn't know that sister had fun." Sister DErenthal really> wanted to be laying in a hammock at the beach one night. SO I delivered. We> made a two story hammock. Pretty ingenious and one night we couldn't sleep,> when in my former life I may have gotten up and gone running or done> something crazy, I made her put her bed on the ground, which she fought me,> but it was just for fun and now she likes it so much that they are still on> the ground and our box springs are up against the wall. And we probably> talk in funny accents all the time. And when we are walking down the street> even though she's completely embarrassed of me I make her sing hymns and> primary songs even when people stare at us. And the best is that she's kind> of anal about being perfectly organized. She doens't understand the> concept of a junk drawer cause "everthing has a spot." So I just mess with> her sometimes and will leave things just a little out of place. Like open> her drawer and have a shirt hanging out while she goes to the bathroom or> something. She can't handle it. But, I tell her I am preparing her for> motherhood when she wont be able to have everything perfect cause her kids> will just mess it up!! She is really one of my best friends. The elders> think we're crazy... which we are, but we're changing the sister missionary> stigma fo "boring and lazy" cause we break that mold in every way!!> We're just following presidents counsil. Work hard, be obedient and HAVE> FUN!!!! SOmething I think every one should partake in!!

The simple life

SO everything sounds like its going great back at home. Although I will be> honest and this may sound crazy, but I totally miss working in the back yard> for hours on end with the family. Especially if Grandpa came down to help I> am sure its starting to look incredible. I would love for you to send> pictures of how its going. Happy birthday to Sean!!! I lvoe you bud and I'm> sending a hand writen letter your way very shortly!> So sorry this is coming to you at a later hour than normal. But, this> morning we went up to this big property of a member of our ward who is> getting ready to their 25 acre plot of land. Even though they have the> skeleton sort of a barn and just a young little orchard, it was an> amazing experience to just walk through the brush and sit and ponder on the> simplicities of life. Something I thought a lot about while I was in> Paraguay. And how true happiness comes back to the gospel of Jesus Christ.> It really is just that easy AND that complex. Some times I feel like Naman> who was commanded to wash in the river Jordan to be healed from leprosy and> he almost didn't do it because it wasn't grand enough. I think I might> stand and fight if asked to do so, but before it seemed sometimes that> reading my scriptures and praying just was so easy that I didn't understand> the miracle of it. Lets be honest with ourselves we waste SO much time on> SO many other things, but we can't take 30 minutes out of our day to sit and> ponder the scriptures and how they are applicable to our lives and then> think about all the blessings we have and truly show our gratitude to the> Lord for all that we have been given. I think that its so easy to do that> we just don't understand or appreciate its value. Like home teaching and> visiting teaching (aka being a real friend to a member of our ward family)> not that hard to do. It can strengthen the ward and is just so easy to> procranstinate. Its absolutely INSANE how satan has made these incredibly> important things just seem slightly insignificant to the worldly eye. He is> good at what he does, sadly enough.>> Anyways it was great. I am SO happy! I really don't know that there is> quite a full and complete joy as the joy in seeing men and women take that> VERY scary and life altering step towards God and covenant that although> they haven't lived their lives a certain way previously that they trust Him> enough to do it His way for the rest of their lives through the beautiful> ordinance of baptism and recieving the holy ghost. These people I have the> absolute privledge of coming in contact with have truly enlarged my soul.> They have become a part of me in a way that I can't quite put into words.> Patrick the man of miracles had plenty more this week. He worked every other> Sunday and he doesn't have a car. BOth of which have been obstacles for him> coming to church. (the car was much less of an obstacle) But, when he> finally recieved his witness that it was what the Lord wanted for him he> still had to work the next three Sundays because he had said he'd cover for> his friend because he wasn't planning on getting baptized anytime soon (the> Lord obviously, like in most cases, had other plans!) So this past week the> Lord heard the prayers of the many people praying for Patrick and his> company wants to change his hours so that he doesn't work any Sundays> EVER!!! And if that wasn't enough he got a car this last thursday. So his> baptism was orginally planned for the 12th (a great day and I think Sean> would agree) but it was going to have to be pushed back cause he had to come> to church one more time, but he was still going to have to cover for his> friend. And so we told the PEC having seen Patrick on Saturday that it was> pushed back. But as we were sitting in church next to Jessica, she points> over and says hey look, and another miracle, PATRICK IS SITTING THERE!!! So> last minute somebody called and covered for him and he was going to stay> home but he realized why he got it covered so he drove over in his car that> he now had and was able to come to church. Making his baptism this coming> weekend! The 12th of June. I think one of the greatest feelings in the> world was sitting next to Shawn and Jessica, have Patrick come sit by us and> then April come in and sit by us. And to know that it was ALL THE LORD. I> continue to be the most spoiled daughter of God ever!!> There is no joy like missionary work. ANd guess what y'all can get in on it> too! every member a missionary!!> The ward is great. Our entire dinner calender was filled in one sunday.> I am more blessed than I can put into words and I know that this is all the> Lord and very little of what I have done!> Well have a spectacular week! I love you all. THanks grandpa for taking care> of the family and great grandma thanks for your email. YOur a doll!> Love> Your sister Kimi Rooney!

What a week.

Hello!!>> Hello everybody!! Hope everything is going well in every one's life! I'm> just you know doing my missionary thang and it some how gets better every> single day. There is a girl in our ward who gave a homecoming talk this> week, she just got back from Chicago south. And it totally freaked me out.> I know I'm new and have like my whole mission ahead of me but it is FLYING> by! And I know I'll blink and I'll be in her shoes and for as much as I> love high heals I want the whole flat sister missionary shoes for longer> than I've got. But, I'll just keep living up every day I've got here! I'll> do my best. I completely love just being able to walk up and talk to> complete strangers and bear my testimony about how the gospel is true. That> we do in fact have a prophet on the earth and the book of Mormon is the> proof of it and that anyone who sincerely asks Heavenly Father in faith will> receive the life changing answer for themselves and they will never be the> same in the best way possible.> This weekend we had a ward service project. We planted trees. It was so> much fun. There were 33 trees to plant and we were doing it under the> direction of the city. It was absolutely incredible (not only cause i was> in normal clothes in public) but also because it was amazing to see all the> members of the church working together, doing hard labor to better the> community. There were little kids, pregnant women, grandparents, teenager> all working hard and having fun and bonding. The in charge said they have> never gotten so much work done in so little time. Usually other groups will> take off after all the trees are in the ground but we stayed and mulched and> drove stakes into the ground and helped tie down the trees and on top of> that we helped clean up. He was very impressed. As I reflected on that> service project I thought about how that is true Christianity in action. We> as members of the church, if we live the way that we know we are supposed to> live, then we are living the way that Heavenly Father wants us to live. We> are not here on this earth to take care of number one, whether that entails> ourselves or just our families. We build our character and the strength of> our families through the service we render to the community, in church, in> our neighborhood. And we are blessed and a happy people who live peaceably> one with another. And others see that. There is something different about> a home that has the spirit in it. We are the very fruits of the gospel.> The fruits of the prophet Joseph Smith, and long as we stand strong and stick> to our values we will have the strength of the Lord on our side.> Also, for the first time I talked to someone who completely threw me off.> We talked to this crazy man, who hit me from an angle I wasn't expecting. We> got talking and he talked about his masters degrees and blah blah blah, then> went on the say that he had been catholic since before he was born and been> educated by the "Jesuits, the ones who kill the muslims" He went on the say> how he knows life is all about to being a good person and taking care of> your neighbor that Jesus Christ metaphorically suffered for us, and> then some absolutely horrendous things about Muslims and how when he was in> the marines he would just kill them etc... I just started crying, I have> never come in contact with such evil. and I was thrown off for the rest of> the night. That is not the way the Lord would have us live. We should love> all men and I'll be honest loving that man is pretty hard... but that is the> teachings of Jesus Christ. Our lord and Savior who is the son of God who> came down here to be the perfect example, who loves all men and women,> black white, Jewish Muslim, etc and who suffered for our sins and sorrows> and trials and EVERYthing difficult that we would pass through and then died> on the cross by the very people He had just suffered for, His people and> gloriously rose again three days later and still lives to this day! That is> real I know it is and that is what I share with all. To come unto Christ> and Heavenly Father is joy and happiness now and forever.> Okay, to change notes real quick... This Sunday was quite a surprise for me.> I was just standing with Sis. Derenthal just passing our programs before> church. When I see this guy who kinda reminded me of Sam Gray, then as I> look I realize that Sam and Roxanne are walking up the stairs to the> church. I freaked out!! I started shaking I didn't know what to think or> do!! It was crazy and wonderful! So Sam and Roxanne just hung out with me> at church! No big deal! It was so fun! they showed me all their wedding> pictures and I got to ask all the question I wanted to about their lives.> And they are just so happy and wonderful! And they got to meet Shawn and> Jessica and April who is getting baptized this Saturday and the members> that I adore and Sis Derenthal who really has become one my best friends!> But I'll be honest it was SUPER WEIRD!! I was stuck in this limbo of my> real life and my mission life and to have them collide like that was crazy.> I realize why we serve away from our friends and families and only talk to> them through emails and letters. Because I became pretty selfish. I did> talk to April and the ward but, I only wanted to talk to Roxanne and Sam and> just be me, not missionary me. It was only momentary and really so much fun> I am glad they came! The ward thought they were investigators cause they> were sitting with the missionaries and they all went up and asked them who> they were. It was fun. we talked and laughed and were giddy and then> parted ways. And I reverted right back to missionary me no worries!> Oh I totally got bit by a spider or some crazy bug. Need I remind you I am> in Texas and not the amazon, but looking at my arm you might think other> wise. I have six bites on my arm one the size of a tennis ball. It looks> like I have a disease of some sort. Every one kind freaks out when they see> my arm and I get a little embarrassed but I'm seriously spoiled in this> ward. THey were all babying me. They gave me anti itch cream and benidryl> and everything. We eat with the members every night and probably have like 8> or more families that would feed us on the spot if we just showed up. I> really love them all so much!! Oh and momma sis Hyatt the family I talked> about last week. She called you like a month or more ago and I think she> left her number and I forgot to tell you she was from my ward. She said that> you guys probably thought she was some crazy person, but she just wanted to> call and talk to you about how to raise the perfect daughter. I'm kidding> Im not exactly sure why but it was her. She said the answering machine cut> her off though.> Thank you so much for the love and support you offer me, and thank you for> your faith in this work.> Love> Sister Rooney>> PS - Jay I pray that you will be like the sons of mosiah upon their return from> their missions that Alma 17:3 you may speak with the power and authority of> GOd in defending yourself!

Oh Hey!

Howdy,> SO first and most importantly I hope everything is good with all y'all!> Really though I pray for you and I know that Heavenly Father is taking extra> good care of you in my absence. ( that sounded kinda self-centered, like I> always took care of you or something, really you guys just took care of me> lets be honest) I know that everyone has there own personal trials little> or big that they are going through right now, my advice is to try and look> at it from an outsiders point of view. Satan is really good at making us> truly believe in the lies all around us. He is a sly one. He knows us each> so well that he knows what our weaknesses are and how to tempt us into> believing that his lies are really truths. One for example could be that we> are not of worth because of (fill in the blank) and he knows how to fill> in the blank with exactly what would make us feel that way, right? Cause> what gets me isn't necesarily going to get the next guy. He's a> little smarter than that. But, what is true? We are children of our> Heavenly Father! He is the greatest king of them all by like a bajillion. So> you are royalty. And yes there is in fact inequality in the world the Jones> will always have more than you, but the trick to happiness is to be> content and maybe even happy with what you've got. With all the blessings> you have been given. Br. Brough, yes Cami's trainers brother, Br. Brough> gave a talk on gratitude and that it is a saving principle. And I see why...> if you are a little more grateful for your family, wouldn't you love them a> little better, if you are a little more grateful for the scipture, might you> study them or read them a little more or more in depth, if you are a little> more grateful for the atonement of our dear savior Jesus Christ, would you use> it a little more, study about it, tell everyone you know about it??> SO I know I always add my thoughts from what I have been thinking about> and if they seem preachy, I'll cut it out sorry. This is not my intent, so> just let me know.> But, my week was really amazing. I am more grateful every single day for> the blessing it is to be a missionary for my Lord and Savior. Brushy Creek> is the best ward ever. All the members are so great. Seriously though, its> kinda a problem cause every family is so fun that its REALLY hard to leave.> But, don't worry about it we are working on it. They all have so many cool> things to offer to say. I just sit and soak it up. We are trying to focus> on strengthening our relationships within the ward, to then try to inspire> them to talk to their friends. So question for all of you, who are some> memorable missionaries you've had in your wards and why were they so> memorable, what made them different from all the missionaries of whom you> probably can't even remember their names?> Everyone is so amazing, but I think my favorite this week would be the> Hyatts. Sis. Hyatt is the Relief Society President and she is absolutlely> amazing. They have a son on a mission in Spain and he gets home in 2 weeks.> They're just a little excited. Its really funny though cause she's 45 and> just got pregnant! It was a complete surprise they have 4 kids the oldest> is like 9. But, I think they were my favorite becuase as we talked to them> yesterday just about different things their three other kids were just> sitting on top of each other and messing around and goofing off, chimming in> every once in a while but really wondering how their parents could talk for> so long and wondering when it was going to be over. It made me laugh so> hard, I called them out on it, just cause it was us. Me, Kyle, Sean and Cami> just messing around, getting in trouble and wondering how they could still> be talking. It was great!! Just another tender mercy in all the> plenitudes!!> And with sis. Derenthal, its great. I have kinda become her life coach. Yeah> mom, me the life coach, shocking huh? But, she is great and I am helping to> see how great she really is and it is so much fun and so rewarding I love> it!! and we just really laugh and have fun, get to know the ward and teach> all we can! The mission is the best, I highly suggest it for anyone> debating it!! Well thats all I think Ive rambled long enough!>> I love you and always remember to smile! Laugh through the hard times and> they really wont seem too hard!> Love> your sister Kimi Rooney

Focus on the Pearl.

Hey Y'all,> It really was so great to talk to you guys on Sunday. It is always wonderful> to remember the family I am apart of. I just make so much sense when in> connection to you, I apologized to my comp for laughing and yelling and just> being to loud... I really know that you were each sent here to help me get> through this life, with minimal bumps and bruises, and I am quite the klutz> so I know what a challenge that presents. You all motivate me to be a better> missionary and to work with everything I've got... so thanks!> Daddy, I really like the idea behind focusing on the pearl and not the> pretty box. Its a pretty incredible experience to be a missionary because> we are definately not of the world but, we are not really in the world> either. We are given this very unique opportunity to see the world and the> people in it, a little more like He does. To see the real meaning to life.> And it comes through the high mission standards that we are asked to keep.> We only listen to uplifting music, we don't watch movies or tv, we don't> surf the internet, we are early to rise early to bed with excercise in the> mix, we study personally and together, we set and achieve goals, we then go> out and serve people all day every day.and all of this helps us to focus on> the most important things in life. so that "we talk of Christ, we rejoice> in Christ, we preach of Chirst, and (we read what the prophets write that )> prophesy of Christ, and (and what they've written) according to their> prophecies, that our children (us and everyone around us) may know to what> source they may look for a remission of their sins." (2Nephi 25:26) And> when we do these things, we are filled with the love of God and don't have> the mind to injure one another, but to live peaceably (Mosiah 4:11-21) We> become true Christians we truly become more like our exemplar, Jesus> Christ. When we put off the natural man and yeild to the enticings of the> Holy Spirit, we become the saints that we profess to be. We cannot be like> the Pharisees in the times of old and focus on the rules. I am a good person> because I went to church or served my neighbor or etc. is not necesarily> true. Did you go to church because thats what you do, because people might> look at you funny if you didn't or did you go to church to edify and to be> edified by others and then did you really prepare to take the sacrament and> re-committ to live and be better both heart and soul? The Law of Moses was> fulfilled in Christ. We live the law of Christ. We do things to become> better people and Christ is why it is possible. That is the big picture. So> I'm not asking you my friends and family to give up television and suddenly> live missionary standards, you need to be in the world, but not of the> world. I would just ask you to look at the things you do, do and see why> your doing it. As you change those things, one thing at a time and give into> the enticings of the Spirit. Your desires will change and you will want to> continue changing because that is the deepest desires of our spirits. To> return to live with our heavenly father again.> Sorry I get so preachy. I promise that this comes from a good place. Its> because I love you so much! Oh and sister Derenthal isn't getting> transfered!!! WE are staying in Brushy Creek for another transfer. We> literally started leaping up and down for joy and doing a very appropriate> slightly goofy missionary victory dance!! We were positive that she was> getting transfered, so its really awesome that she is staying. We are just> going to rock this transfer. Be more obedient, more faithful, work harder,> and I know that so many miracles are going to happen. Our district leader,> this huge tongan elder, (who is absolutely ruthless when it comes to> dodgeball) was laughing at us cause he didn't know why we thought she was> getting transfered because he highly suggested we stay together cause we're> on fire. And so when the APs called they said that they had moved us apart> and that it made sense to do so, but the Lord wanted us together and to keep> up the good work!!! Our prayers were answered! So I'm really excited and> things are going great.> Well I love you all so much!! Keep smiling every day!! And if something> makes you sad, I give you full premission to think of how we'll be driving> down the road and just jump out scare someone half to death and then> testify to them about the church. Yeah that happens. I am officially a> Crazy person. So laugh at me and keep going. life is just great!!!> Your> Sister Kimi Rooney>> You can't pray a lie> -Huck Fin