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The mission has been successful.  Now the great adventure of life begins.

"Brethren, I bid thee Farewell"

This isn't the end, but merely the beginning.

Ohio has taught me to to rely on our Heavenly Father and in His Son, Jesus Christ. Ohio has taught me to have a passion in the Book of Mormon and to love Joseph Smith for who he is. I stand all amazed at the love that Jesus has for me and for every person that I meet. Christ has truly helped me to have charity.

This week has been bitter sweet. Everyday has been meaningful. I wish I had the words to describe how much I love this Gospel and the work that our Father has us do. How can you put into words the feelings and experiences that one feels while being on a mission for the Lord? I've been thinking about this a lot, and I have come to find out that you can't. The only way that you possibly can is by continuing to serve and apply what you have learned. Every day this week I have prayed more earnestly and worked my tail off. 

 

Y ended up not wanting to see us any more... Which made me SO sad because I love him SO much!! But I know that he'll join the church at some point in his life. He's bound to since he's still reading the Book of Mormon. #thatwillconverthim But guess what!!! We saw him this week!! He still wants to meet with the Sisters!! 

We received a referral for this lady. She lives in the Hilltop and hasn't had the easiest life. She has seen a lot of things that would scar ANYONE. She wants answers to her questions and to come closer to her Savior. My heart hurt for her as she was telling us her story. She wonders why God allows bad things to happen to good people. Her and I share the same question. I was able to tell her that Christ knows and so does our Father in heaven. The Spirit was so strong as I told her with all the passion that I have that this Gospel is true. 

Throughout the week I have been praying even more than ever to be kind and have charity and to find SOMEONE who is sincere about learning about the Gospel. It turns out that those prepared people are all around us, and I grow more and more grateful for all of the work that our Savior does in order for me, a weak servant to find them. B is one of those guys. He has a Christian background and loves the Savior. We had a lesson with him the other day about the Plan of Salvation. It was so powerful. You could feel the Spirit as we talked about our Fathers plan. B liked the message and has accepted the baptismal date of October 31. Good things can happen on that day!! 

  

I know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is true. I have no doubt that Jesus Christ is real and that our Father in Heaven know us. I am grateful for the sacrifice that was given for me. I don't have the words to describe how I feel. Grateful comes pretty close. 

 

See ya'll soon!! 

 

Love, 

Sister Preston 

Short and Sweet

"Shall we not go on is so great a cause? Go forward and not backward, Courage.... And on, on to victory." D&C 128:22

Y came to a baptism the other day. He dressed up in a suite! He said that in the Children's Book of Mormon they dressed up in nice cloths. So he wanted to dress up in nice cloths. He enjoyed the Spirit that was felt at the baptism. At some point he'll be baptized. I just know it!

We are working with this lady named W who has been reading the Book of Mormon with her kids every night! She is such a sweet lady. At some point she will come to church. She is always going through something hard.

Sorry this is so short every one!!

Love,

Sister Preston

"The Spirit of God like a Fire is Burning!"

One of the sweetest thing any missionary experiences is when a person who they found, taught, baptized is active and IS HOLDING A CALLING AND GOING TO THE TEMPLE!!!!!!

That's what motivates me. There are people like BH out there. Ready and eager to have this Gospel be familiar to them. I remember the day I found him. I was with dear Sister Vance on the eve before the transfer call. We were in Lexington, Ohio a small suburb outside of Mansfield. We were knocking on doors like crazy, praying that we would find someone who would be prepared for us to teach. Remember that day Cassi?? The principle that helped BH understand that this is the Lord's Church is knowing that Joseph Smith was a Prophet of God and that he translated the Book of Mormon by the Power of God. I remember clearly the day he told us that he knew the Church was true.

I love how the Spirit testifies of truth. I have been thinking a lot about that lately. In the Book of Mormon we read that "...By the Power of the Holy Ghost, ye may know the truth of all things." As a missionary I have the opportunity to fine tune to the promptings of the Spirit. To really know how the Father communes with me, and to better help those I meet understand how the Father communes with them.

To go along with this thought we have been talking to a lot of people who are a part of Strong Christian backgrounds. They bare testimony of what they believe and tell us to read the Bible. I have found myself walking away feeling frustrated and hurt all at the same time. If they took one second to just listen, they would feel the love that God has for them. I often wonder if they aren't listening to me because I am too focused wanting theme to listen to me and the Lord's message. I've come to realize that I like doing the will of the Lords a lot more than doing my own will. I found a talk given by Sister Burton last year about the Spirit. She adds a poem that her blind mother wrote. It

says:

                                 "I know not by what methods rare,

                                  But this I know, God answers prayer.

                                   I know that He has given His Word,

                                 Which tells me prayer is always heard,

                                 And will be answered, soon or late.

                                 And so I pray and calmly wait.

                                 I know not if the blessing sought

                                Will come in just the way I thought;

                               But leave my prayers with Him alone

                                Whose will is wiser than my own,

                                Assured that He will grant my quest,

                                Or send some answer far more blest."

I love that poem! Aren't we far more bluest when we follow the voice of the Spirit?

  

This last week in MLC we talked about the basics of the Book of Mormon. It is the Keystone of our religion. Through it we come to a deep understanding that Jesus Christ is the Son of a living God, and that Joseph Smith is a Prophet of God who through God's power restored His church.

Our mission is super young. 48 of the companionships are training.

President Daines wants to have theses young missionaries be passionate about the Book of Mormon. I love how many restored thirties there are in the Book of Mormon. From Baptism to the Sacrament -- it's all in there. I want to read these sacred scriptures over, and over, and over again to be able to stay away from the adversary. I want to be a better person because of this Book.

We've been doing all that we can to help T and C to understand this. C often forgets to read, now I don't blame her for forgetting when she had a pile of homework to do. Sister Corbett and I are able to bare our testimonies about the divinity of the Book of Mormon to her and teach her why God commands us to read and study the scriptures. She wasn't at church this Sunday... I have hope and.

LOT of faith that she will be baptized at some point. I know she knows this church is true. She sees how happy it makes her friend who is a member of our Ward. I know that they feel the Spirit as they love the Word of Wisdom. They're good girls, and I love them SO MUCH!!

Poor Y. He's having a lot of medical problems, but he's holding in there.  When we were on exchanges the other day we read 1Nephi with him. Let me tell you, the Spirit was SO strong hearing him read the chapter heading in English. I was in awe of the Spirit. After he read the heading he said " I read, but no not what it says!" So we explained it to him. The funny things is, and the Spirit was growing stronger, a storm came and drove us out. Literally it was crazy!

Sister Morgan and I were soaked from head to toe. I know Heavenly Father is looking out for Y.

We have been doing a lot of finding. We have a deep, strong desire to see these people progress. Sometimes agency isn't my friend because these good people end up telling us to not come back. I have faith that as long as I invite everyone to be baptized on the first lesson that at some point someone will be baptized.

This Gospel means a lot to me. I was asked to beat my testimony at MLC and I walked about thinking and feeling that I had so much more to say about our Savior. My words can't even begin to express just how much love I have for Him. I know He lives and loves everyone. He is my brother and dearest friend. Through Him I can have a better relationship with our Heavenly Father. They answered Joseph's humble prayer. Through him Christ's church was restored to the earth and the Book of Mormon teaches us of our Savior's doctrine. I know that Thomas S. Monson is a Prophet of God. I have read his words and studied them in my mind and the Spirit tells me that he is. I love our Prophet. I know that the Spirit directs him as he does the Lord's will. I know that the Spirit will continue to teach us all things, as long as we are willing to act.

I hope everyone is preparing for General Conference!!!

Any guesses as to who the new Apostles will be??

I don't have any.

Make this week a happy one!!

Love,

Sister Preston

Almost the 9th hour...

This week has been so busy!

We have been doing a lot of everything.

Since I remember Sunday the most, I'll start with that.

I gave a talk at church. All of the missionaries spoke. Guess who went last? If you guessed me, you are 100% correct. I don't know why this always happens.... It went well though. The Elders gave a 3-4 minute talk, and Sister Corbett gave a 3 minute talk. So it was up to be to talk for the next 20 minutes!!! Remember when I gave a 3 minute talk before I left Bishop Walker? For once I spoke for the whole 20 minutes! Who knew how fun it is to talk about out Savior and invite others to come closer to him. We almost had a cute little Asian man at church. He was willing to come-all he needed was a ride. I'm not gonna lie, I came really close to just giving him a ride. Since I love God more I didn't.

C was at church. She is currently working towards baptism on the 19th of September!!!

We have been meeting with her quite a bit. She misses the other Sisters. But I assured her that we are just as cool as Sister Beebe. :) It's been so much fun to teach her! She will be the second person whom I've taught who is under 20!

Sorry this is short!!

But I'll end with a bang.

I know Jesus Christ can and will help us if we call on Him. The friends that we make in the Gospel are eternal and precious. I know God loves me and will direct me.

Peace, love, and mucho fun!!

Love,

Sister Preston

New Area, New Companion, Thug Life

So this week has been WILD.

I am in a new area, it's not too far away from Riverside. In fact I switched areas. I am in THE HEART OF COLUMBUS!! And I have a lot of homies who are teaching me how to be a "Straight up G." My new companions name is Sister Corbett. She is from West Jordan in Utah.

She is a straight up cool person. We get a long well. :) I forgot to mention that we were doubled in. This means that we were put into a new area without having a previous person here who knows it. It was a tender mercy for us since I have been on exchanges here, so I know my way around just a little bit. Our first couple of days have been really exhausting. On top of getting to know the current investigators here, we have been finding through our own efforts. It was kind of hot the other day when we were out knocking on doors. There were a lot of people out. We talked to a lot of people who would be interested in learning more.

 I have been hitting a big wall lately. Not a wall of not wanting to do the work, I am just extremely tired. My heart has been drawn out in prayer in order to push past the wall and to keep going against the grind.

In Columbus there are all sorts of different kinds of people. I like the verity. We had an interesting lesson with one of our investigators the other day. She mentioned to us that she has a problem with the men holding the Priesthood. I listened to her as she told us how "women don't have a say in our church, and how the men have all the say." My heart hurt for her, or maybe it hurt for me, I'm still trying to decide. I expressed to her as simply as I could that the Priesthood is a sacred gift given to men to help God's children. I told her that the best way to find this out for herself was to read the Book of Mormon and find out for herself if what we are saying and what the Book of Mormon are saying are true. We have a Mission Wide Leadership Training on Tuesday, so President Daines has asked us to come prepared to learn. He assigned a talk given by Elder Oaks to read entitled " The Keys and Authority of the Priesthood." click here for a link to the talk  Perfect timing if you ask me!

As I read this talk this morning I couldn't help but feel the love that God has for us. He must really trust us if he would give us His authority on the earth. I'm just going to throw this out there since I am being "straight up", men and women need each other. The more righteous men and woman are, the more they can influence one another.

Not only that but in order to reach exaltation we need the new and everlasting covenant  that is preformed under the priesthood authority. And I feel like I have a voice in this Church. Even though I am in a Missionary Council, I feel like my voice is heard. Any who, that's my soap box for the day. :) Our apartment is kind of ghetto. All of you wouldn't believe what I found.....

Life is like a box of Chocolates...

The other day I was in Alma 26, better knows as Alma's psalm. Click here for a link to this chapter of Alma He was testifying of the goodness of God for all of the success that he had had during the course of his mission. He said these words that I totally concur with. He said "Now if this is boasting, even so will I boast; for this is my life and my light, my joy and my salvation, and my redemption from everlasting wo. Yea, blessed is the name of my God, who has been mindful of this people, who are a branch of the tree of Israel, and has been lost from its body in a strange land; yea, I say, blessed be the name of my God, who has been mindful of us, wanderers in a strange land." The only person that I can boast in is my God who has saved me from "the bonds of iniquity." Okay, I am still really dramatic, but seriously, I do dumb things and He forgives me. He has guided me to those in this area who want to feel their burdens be lifted from them. The joy that I feel from seeing someone even invite us back is glorious. This week we have been seeing miracle after miracle. And all of it is due to our Father in Heaven. For instance, on exchanges we tracked on a street and found 4 new potentials. Sister Crandall and I went back and met whom we thought was a lady named R, we met a lady named K. She mentioned to us that she was was just talking to her mom about going to a church. The Spirit was SO strong as we talked to her about what this Gospel can do for her, and especially what the Gospel has done for us in our lives.

Oh yeah on top of all of these miracles, we had a member of the 12 come to Columbus. We had Elder Cook!!! He met with all of the missionaries. President Daines promised us that if we came to this meeting prepared that we could influence the Spirit. Sure enough we did, and we ended up having a question and answer with Elder Cook. We also had Elder Hallstrum with us. He's in the presiding Bishopbric.

Meeting with these men was highlight of my  mission. Before we started the meeting, Elder Cook and Elder Hallstrum shook each missionaries hand. There was a special Spirit of love in the Chapel. I was so excited to hear his words. It was a very special experience to hear from an Apostle of the Lord. I know that he has been called of God, and I know that he can only do the will of the Lord. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to serve and love and be who the Lord would have me be.

Before I forget, I chopped ALL of my  hair off and now I look like a boy. Just kidding!! I did cut my hair though. It's a good 5 inches shorter. Guess who did it.... If you guess Sister Crandall, you win the big prize. :) Any who, the church is true. I have been so happy serving my fellow beings. I know that living within the bonds of the Restored Gospel that I can be infinitely happy.

I love you all. Live long and prosper. Don't let the muggles get you down!

Love,

Sister Preston

The Adventures of Crandall and Preston

I'm a bit behind sending all of you an email. We ran out of time last preparation day... Sorry about that.

Last week we had a super fun Preparation Day. We went to all of the Brutus's that are on Ohio States' campus. We went with our investigator. We took some priceless pictures.

Every Monday evening at 6:30 we have been visiting with S and D. S is from Peru and D is from Mansfield. They're a cute couple. S is coming closer and closer towards baptism every time we meet with her. D isn't as invested as S is. We know that if she were to join that he would be really supportive. Also, D and S came to church yesterday!! It was nice having them there.

On Tuesday we were on exchanges with the Madison Lake Sisters. I was with Sister Folsom for the day. Sister Folsom has been out for 3 months and is really diligent. I love how much she loves the work. We found a few potential investigators while we were working together. I love working with Missionaries who are still green. They have a lot of fire in them. Wednesday was District Meeting. Elder Cameron our District Leader is super cool. He plans really fun activities for us to do. What I love the most about them is that not one of them are the same. We talked a lot about our testimonies of God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ. He has us write our thoughts and feelings in our journal. Which lead to us talking about the Prophet Joseph. It was a perfect preparation for Zone Conference. President has all of the Zones read "Path to Palmyra" and "The Coming Forth of the Book of Mormon" so that we could have a discussion about it. I noticed the Spirit being particularly strong  as we talked about the Smith families journey to Palmyra. They went through a lot. Although they went through a lot their lives went bad. They had each other. And Joseph became a strong man because of it. Zone Conference is perhaps one of my favorite events. Good food, even better Spirit, and people that I love. What could be more joyous than that?! Well a few things come to mind.... But I won't say it. :) Ohio had their annual State Fair... And guess what! We contacted there! It was so much fun! We saw a lot of great people who were interested in learning more. Among that we saw a lot of fried food booths. I kid you not, there was not one healthy thing out there. I did partake of a few of those things... And I regret nothing. #fairfood We saw a huge cow and a Brutus made out of BUTTER!!! It was crazy!!

I feel like the whole week went by super fast.

Any who, have a great week everyone!

Love,

Sister Preston

Invictus

"Out of the night that covers me, black as the pit from pole to pole, I thank whatever gods may be for my unconquerable soul. In the fell clutch of circumstance I have not winced nor cried aloud. Under the bludgeonings of chance my head is bloody, but unbowed. Beyond this place of wrath and tears looms but horror of the shade, and yet the menace of the years finds, and shall me unafraid. It matters not how straight the gate, how charged with punishments the scroll. I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul." By William Earnest Henry. The title of my email is the name of this poem. On my mission I have gone through some hard things, and I probably will continue to go through hard things. But I know that when I do not allow Satan to get in he way of my happiness and allow Jesus Christ to "captain my soul"

I am a much happier person. And the trials I go through ultimately work out for my good and the good of those who are around me. So if you're having a hard time - join the rest of us! Allow the Savior and His perfect infinite Atonement to help you out. Go to church and partake of the Sacrament. Do all you can to come closer to Him. There is a scripture in the Doctrine and Covenants that I think about a lot. It says: "Or canst thou be humble and meek, and conduct thyself wisely before me? Yea, come unto me thy Savior. Amen." I love how He pleads for us to come unto Him. I will never be perfect in this life, but I know that I can come unto Him and feel of His perfect love.

Let me update all of you on S. He's had a bit of a rough week.  But from my observation I can see that he is not becoming hard heartened, but rather his heart is soft. Due to some of the issues he's had this week he hasn't been able to study his scriptures, so we gave him the Book of Mormon on cd to listen to. I see how the Savior has helped S. In fact he may be ready to take upon him the name of our Savior here soon. We're planning on extending a baptismal date to him. I don't remember if I have told all of you about St. St is a great cook. His meals are one of my favorites. We usually go over for dinner and have a lesson right after. He has been a little stubborn about coming to church. Miracles happen all the time.... And it was a miracle that he came to church!! Sister Crandall bore her testimony about coming to church and he couldn't argue about that. One thing lead to another and by golly he was set to come! He's one of those guys who stays true to his word.

Great news!!! Ohio is having their state fair this week all the way until the end of next week. We have an investigator who runs the art booth, and she asked us for help. SO WE ARE GOING TO HELP HER OUT AND THEN CONTACT AT THE FAIR!!! I tell ya, the things we get excited for as a missionary!!

I am so grateful for what this mission has done for me. I heard a phrase the other day that I love. " The mission is the MTC for life."

( MTC means Missionary Training Center)

Any-who, ya'll have fun!

Love,

Sister Preston

I don't have any adequate words to describe just how much I love this jungle...Ohio

"Wherefore, for this cause I gave unto you the commandment that ye should go to the Ohio; and there I will give unto you my law; and there you shall be endowed with power from on high." D&C 38:32

If only I could change the scripture that is on my missionary plaque at home to this one. I don't have any adequate words to describe just how much I love this jungle. This week was quite eventful. When I say eventful I mean super fun and super tiring all at the same time. We have had several MLC's (Missionary Leadership Council) this month due to the iPads. We are transferring everything on to them.

 

Not only have we done that but I have had the opportunity to go on a few exchanges this week with some of my favorite people. The first exchange I went on was with Sister Corbett. She is such a hard worker!  She inspires me to be better!

During that day we taught a cute old man. He loves his family, so naturally we taught him about the Plan of Salvation. To see his face shine with the Spirit is such a sweet thing. We saw a family in the ward whom members have been trying to see; and the experience that we had with them was wonderful. They invited us to make s'mores with them ( and there is NO way I am turning those bad boys down!). We are all by the fire and one of the girls has my full attention telling me about how much she loves cheer.  She is a cutie! After a few s'mores we ask them if we can share a message with them. We show them the Bible Video on the Gospel Library app. The video was about the Savior being baptized by John the Baptist. The Spirit was very strong at point. After a moment of silence one of the girls says "I remember when I was baptized!" And starts telling us her story. Her mom was welling with tears and start telling us about her conversion and how much she loves the Gospel. It was one of the most spiritual moments on my mission.

 

The next day we had District Meeting. We have a great District Leader.  He prepared a great activity for us. After District Meeting I went on exchanges with Sister Thomas! Who I was companions with in Powell for 3 weeks. We went to her area to work. We saw this cute recent convert who had us over for lunch. After that we went and visited a few more people. One pf which she has been trying to see since she has been in the area. I forgot to mention she was doubled into her area. She has a lot of great things going on in her area. :)

 

On exchanges a man texted us to thank us for the text that the previous Sisters had sent. We recently had a great lesson with him. He asked a lot of great questions about the Apostasy. Teaching others about it strengthens my testimony of it. I know that it happened, and because of that the earth was in darkness for a period of time. In 1820 a young man sought to know what was true. In fact it lead him to a verse in James:" If any of you lack wisdom let him ask of God." He pondered the words of that scripture over and over again until he felt that he should ask God what is true. What he saw changed what every Christian denomination believes in about the trinity. I know that Joseph saw God the Father and Jesus Christ. Being able to testify to someone who is seeking about this event... I can't even form into words how much it makes my heart rejoice.

 

There is always something about the Gospel that is to be taught and testified of each day. To see the light of Christ shine in them is glorious. The more I seek the Lord in the words of His living Prophets and the Book of Mormon the more I know that this church is living. He loves us. I know it because i have felt that love that he Has for me time and time again. Especially when I thought I was too far gone for Him to not reach me. His hope is right there. Once it's found hold on tight to it, and follow Him.

 

Make this week a great one!

 

Love,

 

Sister Preston

Self discovery of the Gospel is beautiful.

It's been quite a while... Again. Not all the time do I manage my time on the computer.

On Monday we had a great lesson with this man. At first he was really skeptical about the church. When we visited him we had asked him if he had read from the Book of Mormon since the last time we had been there. He told us that he had! We had planned on teaching him about the Book of Mormon; but the Spirit took us a different way and we ended up teaching about the Restoration. I am grateful that we followed that prompting because we found out that Dan doesn't believe that there was a Apostasy on the earth. Which makes sense as to so many other things we are teaching him.

On Tuesday we had a mini Zone Conference. It was only 3 hours long. Which is short for us!! I've grown to love meetings. They always seem to help me one way or another. Having the mini missionaries with us really helped the work. There's something about it. To this day the most beautiful thing that I could ever witness on the mission is some one gaining a testimony of the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ. We are teaching this man who is incredibly stubborn. He has been trying to prove that there is only one baptism and I that you shouldn't have to be baptized only once. Sister Crandall challenged him to find where it says that in the scriptures. So when we came back the next couple of days he had a whole list of scriptures to share with us. One of the scriptures that he read was 2Nephi 31. We asked him how he felt about it and he told us that that chapter was very enlightening. Overall we asked him if he was searching to know if Joseph Smith is Prophet and if the Book of Mormon is true. Guess what.... He totally is searching!

Self discovery of the Gospel is beautiful.

The longer I am out the more indebted I am to the Lord for this sacred opportunity to serve Him. I know that He loves us. The Father gave His only begotten Son for us.

 

Make this week a good one!

 

General Conference has become a beacon in my life.

General Conference has become a beacon in my life. There were prayers that were answered; and testimonies, including my own that were strengthened. I felt as if I were sitting at the feet of the Lord when the Prophet was speaking. His words are words of wisdom. Words of someone who knows our Savior. I cried with them and I laughed with them. I couldn't help but think about those whom I am serving. Their faces were in my mind as I listened to those who spoke. It's even more apparent to me that our world is in dire need of Saints who keep trying to do what the Lord has asked all who will follow Him to do.

One talk in particular struck a cord in my heart. Elder Nielsen talked about his less-active sister who had been away from the church for years. He said that they fasted and prayed and put her name in the Temple. I couldn't help but think of some of my own kin who are wandering. They are not forgotten. In fact I have put your name in the temple each time I have gone. There is hope for my family; and I felt that hope in my heart as I heard the story of a man who has been through the same thing. My heart is soft and my cup is running over.

L is doing well. She is eager and excited to be baptized this week! We have her program prepared. L has a remarkable story. L has been through a lot. She has had a father who isn't so nice. She knows what it feels like to be bruised and broken. There was a time when she didn't believe in God. She couldn't understand why He would do this to her. If He claimed to love His children, why was she and a host of other people going through such a hard time. With prayer and study of the Bible (which she has read all the way through several times) she came to find that God does love her. Time went by and she was healed by the love of our Savior. L didn't know what a "Mormon" was until she met her boyfriend. He shared with her why he is the way he is. Of course she was curious. So she began the search. As she was diving into this unknown world her mother, whom she has a very close relationship with was worried about her daughter. She had told L that she was to stay away from the missionaries and that she needed to get rid of her copy of the Book of Mormon. This devastated L. She had read a great deal of the Book of Mormon at this point. As time went by her boyfriend had left for his mission and had told her that if she was going to join for him that it wouldn't be worth it. She needed to find out for herself. She was still not allowed to read the Book of Mormon and in fact she was even subjected to watching and reading Anti material. This did not sway the way that she felt about the Book of Mormon. She has said that this experience has strengthened her conviction of Jesus Christ. She has read the Book of Mormon and has asked our Father in Heaven if it is true, and she has received an answer from the Holy Ghost that it is indeed true. I am so happy to see L take this step because she knows that it is true. I am so happy to see her have the Spirit with her at all times. I love L. I love this gospel that teaches us so much about who our Savior is as we go about "doing his will." I know that we have Prophets on this earth today. I know that they speak words that will continue to guide us as long as we give heed to them. Jesus Christ lives and loves all of us. He is the whole reason for my joy and my peace. How grateful I am to be His servant in the Great Ohio. I love Him more than mortal words can describe. I pray that I may follow Him with singleness and meekness. I love my Father in Heaven.

Have a great week everyone!! May the words of the living Prophets soak deeply into your lives as we prepare for the next General Conference.

Love,

Sister Preston

Because He lives!

There is a new video out called Because He Lives. It brings happiness to my heart.
Click here to see the video

We have been showing it to everyone!! I'd say that it makes them happy.

This may be a little bit short. . . But in a nut shell I had a bit of a flue so the work was a little bit slow. I did receive a Priesthood Blessing and it did make all of the difference.

L is on date for the 11 of this month. Time just fly's by!! She is excited. Her boyfriend who is serving his mission in California is going to skype us while this is happening. I don't think she knows about it. So that will be a great surprise for her!!

Anyway that's the life for me out here in New Albany!!

Love,

Sister Preston

I've been out for a year now, and it feels like the time has just sped by

Sorry about last week everyone! I get lazy and don't feel like sending anything sometimes.

This last week we had a lot of fun!! Last week we had a fun District meeting with a member family. They're so fun! We love them to bits! Before we knew it our Preparation day was over and we went to the R's home and had a lesson with L. L is an incredible human being. She has been through SO much; and yet she has come out the victor. For a while her mom wouldn't let her come to church, talk to the missionaries, or even read the Book of Mormon. But unannounced to her mother, she still read the Book of Mormon. She has read the whole Bible before, so reading the Book of Mormon was very natural for her. We've had incredibly Spirit filled lessons with her. And on the 11 of April she is going to be baptized. She is excited, and we are excited for her. We had the car this week, and believe it or not, I am actually really bored of driving. I'd rather be out and about walking around making sure that people can see us. I especially love talking to those dog walkers. They're everywhere!!

This past week a wonderful lady that I taught in Mansfield was baptized, and I had the opportunity to attend. She was happier than a lark! She was crying for joy! The look on her face as she was fully submerged into the water was priceless. This woman had been raised a member, but had left the church do to some things that had happened in her life. But now she is back, and stronger than ever! The Spirit that was felt there was incredibly strong. I loved seeing her and all of those whom I spent the first 6 months of my mission with.

I've been out for a year now, and it feels like the time has just sped by. Thus far I've come to know who our Lord is. He is ever patient with me. He knows who I am; and He certainly knows who my brothers and sisters are. He has helped me in the happiest of times and He has helped me with the hardest of times. The more I put His will in front of mine, the more success I see in the work. And the more I can give all the glory to Him. There are no coincidences in this mortal world. I love how often I've seen blessings from following the mission rules, and from allowing myself fall in love with the people. I wish I could express all of the feelings that I feel in my heart about this work- about our Savior. But this will suffice.

I love you all. And I pray that life is treating you well!

Thank you for the love. Thank you for the prayers. Thank you for believing in me.

Love,

Sister Preston

New Albany in the Spring

Hello Everyone!! Happy Spring! It has finally come in my neck of the woods!

I was in Powell for 6 months. . . and I miss it. But where I am now is truly inspired. I am in New Albany with Sister Garza. Sister Garza is from Michigan. Now for those who don't know about Ohio... those who are from Michigan are not exactly welcomed here. Due to the revelry between the schools. Sister Garza said that she's gotten some pretty funny reactions when she tells people that she is from Michigan. She is wonderful. The Sisters had gotten a ride from a member. Let me tell you, she is the funniest person. She cracks herself up. On the way home she got us some lunch. As we were feasting on some food we started talking about what she did before she retired. She made maps. Lots, and lots of maps. She showed us some of them. After we ate we went on our merry way to New Albany. I have been to New Albany before, but it was different this time since it is my area now. I felt like I was going into a whole new world. When we got to our apartment Sister Garza told me a bit about the members. The Saints where ever you go are amazing. That evening we saw a less active member who just had a wee baby. He was cute. This member wants to go to the Temple. We discussed the things that need to be done before entering into the house of the Lord. She is very excited. And ready to come back to church. Before We knew it it was dinner time.. and we had it with the same Sister who fed us lunch! I thought that she would have had enough of me! She welcomed us right in and we had a feast. After we had dinner with her we went to Missionary Coordination. It was great! I got to meet Bro. Hopkins, and his sweet wife. Sister McCall and Sister W ( I can't spell her last name so we'll just call her Sister W.). They are all wonderful.

Friday was weekly planning day. I've gained a strong testimony of weekly planning. They make all the difference. I forgot to mention that I am in a walking area. We share the car with the Elders. Since we walk we coordinate with the members where we need to be and what not. It's quite handy. On Saturday we were out and about meeting with people. We knocked on a few doors and met very nice people. We had the impression to go to another area. We followed this impression and ended up meeting a lady. She was walking her cure little dog. We walked up to her and started talking about the Gospel. It was a cool experience because when we started talking to her she told us that she had been looking into our church. She had a few doctrinal questions about the Plan of Salvation. Wise Sister Garza pulled out a pamphlet gave it to her. We ended the conversation with an invitation back to her house. ( Although today she called us to let us know that she doesn't want us over. At least she has a pamphlet. :)) That evening we went to the Adult session of Stake Conference. The talks were about Ward Councils and how they are to be governed. I thought back to the times when I have been to very revelatory Ward Councils. I love being apart of them as a missionary. We are an extension to not only the 12 Apostles, but to the Bishop and all of the auxiliary. President Daines had a few moments to share with us his testimony. He talked about power; and how we don't talk about it that much. We talk of the miracles and the tender mercies, but how often do we talk about the power that the Savior of the World has. He bore a powerful testimony of the Book of Mormon. I am surrounded by leaders to who love the Lord. As you all can imagine the Sunday meeting was even better. The topic of the evening was about being converted to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

 As you can all see, New Albany is treating me well. I hope that everyone has a great week!!

Love,
Sister Preston

I realized that there was another set of footprints in the snow

Every Wednesday we have a Zone Training meeting and this week we met at the institute at OSU. We had a great training about Finding by the Spirit and having companionship's that are in unity. It's incredible how inspired our leaders are. A lot of the questions that I had were answered at that meeting.

We went to visit a lady whom missionaries have met in the area previously, and she wasn't home. So we contacted the street that she lives on. At 3 that day we went out to lunch with a 70 year old Muslim lady. We go by her home a couple times a week to clean her home. She is the kindest lady I know. She took us to a yummy restaurant called "Max and Irma's". The sweet lady that took us was so happy about spending time with us. She told us about her week and how her doctors appointments went. All the while we started chatting with a chap named Lincoln. He told us about his family, and even about what he believes in. He goes to a Baptist Church. Boy does he love our Lord!! He told me a book that I should read when I go home. I had been talking to everyone about the Gospel, and our little friend told me " You're on one!" It was so funny!! I wish everyone could meet her. She is like my grandma. After we ate lunch as we were driving back she asked us if we could go to the store for a minute. A wee bit naïve we were to think that it would only take us 10 minutes. We were there for 30. As we were looking around waiting for our friend to get her medications we talked to a very nice college-aged girl about her beliefs. She mentioned to us that she goes to one of the popular Catholic Church's in town. We talked to her about the Restored Gospel and asked her when we could see her again. She was a bit hesitant, but ultimately she told us what her work schedule is like and invited us to see her.

After we talked to this kind girl, our elderly friend dropped us off at our home and we zipped off to see a former investigator. The Lord was looking out for us, and for her. As were pulled up to our next appointment's neighborhood she pulled up, and we prayed that the member whom we had asked to come with us would be there quickly. It ended up working out quite well. We gave this former investigator another copy of the Book of Mormon so that her boys could share and invited her to the Missionary Musical Fireside for Easter. I am so grateful that we had a member with us. We had been very frazzled as to how we could help this investigator get to church, and "BAM!!" We have one to not only fellowship, but to help this kind lady get to church!!

The rest of the evening was wonderful. I have had the blessed opportunity to  watch my dear companion Sister Farmer grow. She is out of her little bubble, and into a new one that is filled with infinite potential. She see's it, and oh what a beautiful view it is!! That evening we met with our dear friend. We have been helping her our with her photo books and what not over the past couple of weeks. She has made a big dent!! Tonight we had a great sit down lesson with her. We took a member with us who is wonderful with people. We asked Christine if she believes that Joseph Smith is a Prophet. She pondered that question for a moment and said "Yes. Yes I believe that he is a Prophet of God." The Spirit was incredibly strong - and I almost burst out in tears. After a few sacred moments we extended baptism to her. She declined kindly and told us that she isn't quite ready. I have so much faith in her. I have so much faith in the Lord that in His glorious time He will guide her to the waters of Baptism. I know that if I stay in Powell another transfer that it'll be for her.  

On Thursday we did a bit of Family History. It's taken me a LONG time to get the feel for it, but I now like doing it whenever we can. The Church has made it super easy, and super fun!! On the days that we do Family History, I usually watch 'Joseph Smith: The Prophet of the Restoration.' The Spirit of Elijah mixed with the powerful witness of Joseph always makes me cry. I know that he is a Prophet of God. I know that he did a great work for our Lord. I am so grateful for the Priesthood power that has been Restored to this earth.

The ward is phenomenal with there ward mission plan. One of the things that we are doing to help the members out with their missionary work is by going to each home to teach the Restoration. We went to a members home that morning to teach them. It's interesting how different each lesson is. This member needed to know that she is appreciated, and that the programs that our Gospel has for both social and spiritual are for her, and everyone else who needs a wee brake from there life.

About once a week we have been volunteering at an Assisted living place. All of the elderly there love us. And we love them!! We had a tea party with them and talked to them about there fondest memories. I've learned a lot from them. We have gotten fairly close with one of the ladies that is in charge of the activities. She is so kind to us. We talked to her about the Gospel at the end of this activity. She told us some of the concerns that she has and we listened. We offered to give her a tour of our Chapel. She said that she's think about and talk about it with her husband. I pray that it all works out according to the Lord's will.

We have been visiting this little boy since I've been here. He's one of my favorites. We play games with him and help him out with his speech. He has Autism. You wouldn't know it if you were to talk to him. That day his grandma and his cousin were there. It was so nice to meet them. They have been asking a few questions here and there about the church. Which is a huge blessing!!

I'm going to fast forward to Sunday. This past Sunday it snowed a lot! We had about 6 inches of snow.. or more. It was a lot. And it was heavy. It was also fast Sunday. At church we heard some of the most beautiful testimonies that were borne. My dear friend bore her testimony about the Atonement. Seeing her cry, made me cry. She is so happy. This Gospel has brought her so much joy and peace. This little 9 year old bore his testimony on the Holy Ghost and the Book of Mormon. There was not a dry eye in the room. We were Spiritually fed that afternoon.

We have been shovel contacting a lot since there is snow. I was a little worried about shoveling when we hadn't eaten any food. I know that it was the Spirit that directed us to do so. We shoveled a HUGE driveway. The whole while I was humming some of my favorite hymns and thinking about some of my favorite versus in the Book of Mormon. There is such a special Spirit that is felt when we serve with all of our hearts, and all of our minds, and literally with all of our strength. I kept looking back at the snow and I noticed that there were my footprints and Sister Farmer's footprints in the snow. I felt this overwhelming feeling when I realized that there was another set in snow. They were the footprints of our Savior. I know that He is with me at every step of this work. These thoughts have carried with me into today. I know that He is with all of us as we go about doing good. Following Him helps us to know who Father is. I don't know where I'll go in a few days or even if I stay here. But I do know that our Savior is directing this work. He is so aware of all of our worries and strengths. The Book of Mormon is laced with His doctrine and His teachings. In His time we shall see everyone cry "Hosanna, Hosanna! Blessed be the name of our God!!" I love all of you and I pray that you are finding success. :)

 

Love,

Sister Preston     

AND I AM STILL COLD

February 16, 2015

This week has been just a blast!! So many cool and wonderful things have happened!!

Thank you all so much for the Birthday Cards!! They really meant a lot to me. :)

This week we have been out and about in the bitter cold. I am currently wearing 2 layers of tights, 3 shirts, 2 jackets, 2 pairs of socks, a scarf, and a winter coat. AND I AM STILL COLD. The other day we had a white out... and it was so crazy!! We prayed for all of the missionaries and all of those who were traveling. On Tuesday when we came home, we found our door covered with cute little hearts that said "Happy Birthday!!" and "Happy Valentine's Day!!" It was so sweet of them!

We had a great lesson with a lady. We have been talking to her about the Plan of Salvation. There is such a powerful Spirit whenever I have talked to anyone about this Plan. She had recently lost a close family member, so this message brought a lot of comfort and peace. She is currently reading Alma 40 in the Book of Mormon. I pray that that brings her some more comfort and solace.

This week we have been helping out an investigator with putting some old pictures that she has away. It has brought back some wonderful memories. And while we are organizing her photos, she asks us questions about the Book of Mormon, and about the Prophet Joseph Smith. We have been working with her for so long, and I know that in the Lord's time she will enter into the waters of Baptism. Which.. is something she is considering. She asks so many questions about it. You can imagine how happy that makes me. :)

I have recently finished the Book of Mormon, and it's incredible how the lessons in this book are so applicable to our world today. I love how each chapter are always in tuned to my every day life. I have felt the peace and joy from drinking from it. I love seeing how our Savior is on EVERY page. I know that reading this book has changed me.. and will continue to change me. I am incredibly grateful for our Savior and for all of those who have helped me to get to this point where I am at today. I know that my Savior lives. I know that Joseph Smith was a Prophet of God.

I love you all!! Have a wonderful week!

Love,

Sister Preston

P.s. I hope everyone is preparing for General Conference!! :)

This week has gone by SO quickly!!

We have had the craziest weather in Ohio!! From frozen rain to snow. We've had quite the time.




This week was filled with adventures. We have started volunteering at several retirement homes. The people there love seeing young faces!! It is so wonderful to see them happy and joyful. The other day there was this Elvis impersonator, and boy did they eat that up! They have a lot of zeal for the him! I was really sad leaving them. They would say "Where are you going? Are you going to come back?" Luckily, we are! We are planning on baking with them. We are having another musical fire side, and I am going to be playing the flute with a few of other Sisters. Thank you Ronnell for sending my flute! It arrived here nice and safely. Thank you Tijon for sending the music. I will tell you how it goes as the time is drawing nigh. Elder Perry is coming to our mission at the end of the month. I am pretty excited about it.

Anyway, this week was wonderful!

Thank you all for the love, and for the prayers.

Love,

Sister Preston 

I've come to the conclusion that I can never go home because...

I've come to the conclusion that I can never go home because serving a mission and being in Ohio is the best thing that I have ever done with my life.

Here are the reasons why:
1: I have the coolest companions. I forgot to mention I'm in a tri-companionship. That's right, there are three of us!! Sister Farmer, Sister Osbourn, and myself. We have a grand old time finding, teaching, and baptizing. :)
2: I love Powell. I think that I might love it more than Mansfield. But then again, I don't think that's possible.

3: The people are absolutely incredible. They are sincere, and they have a special spirit about them.

4: I love teaching, and finding, and serving. We have found a few unique opportunities to serve.

5: I wouldn't have it any other way. I see what the Savior sees in these people.

Now that I'm on the topic of people let me up date everyone on our lady investigator. She is going to be baptized on January 24. When we extended that date to her, she said; " Yes, I think I will... Actually, I know I will." Those moments are unforgettable. The lessons that we have with her are inspired. We ask questions based on what she says. She mentioned to us that she is unwinding all of the knots that she has in her life. I am so happy for her. :)

Last week, I had the opportunity to give a talk at church. Don't worry everyone, it was MUCH longer than my farewell talk. :) A whole 8 minutes longer to be exact!! I actually joked about that a bit before I went into the meat of the talk. Since it's a new year, we had the opportunity to talk about goals. Why we make them, and how they help us. A lot of my talk was based off of a CES Devotional called "Better things to come." Since giving that talk, I've been thinking about my goals. I find that they are leaning toward what the Lord wants. A majority of my goals are for the next 9 months of my mission, and I've only had the heart to add one goal for when I get home. It's quite a good one actually. I am going to sign up to run in races of all sorts. So that way I can keep running and always have something to work toward. My main goal this year, is to be more consecrated. I want to be converted to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I believe that it's happened, but I also believe that I have a lot more to go.

Anyway, I've better get going.

I know that the Gospel of Jesus Christ is true. I know that Heavenly Father loves, and knows each and every one of His children. I am indebted to Him for this opportunity to serve.

Love,
Sister Preston