New Companion and Carnival

Hi my WONDERFUL family!! 

My new companion - Hermana Sanchez

I hope you all had a fantastic week!! Here in San Pablo we had lots going on! Big week with interviews, meetings, a baptism, and also... I have surprising news. Last night when we called the district leader to give our daily report he told us get ready… that yesterday were cambios intermedios and Hermana Choque... was leaving the sector. We were not expecting that at all, but... I have a new companion!!! This morning we went to the bus station, traded, and all day we were in our apartment unpacking, writing letters, relaxing. It was fantastic. So.. my new companion’s name is Hermana Sanchez. (Yes, the same name as my last companion... but no, not the same person) She’s from Chicklayo, Peru, has a family of 7 people and from what I can tell so far, is super super great!!! I’m really excited to learn from her and work hard to find new people to teach. The funny thing... she was only in her other sector for three weeks, half a change. So we decided that there’s definitely someone in this sector that the Lord wants her to find.

Like I said... we had a lot of things going on this week. Monday and Tuesday were Carnival, like I said in my last letter. I’d like to announce that I went both days with only getting hit by foam once. I was very proud of us... our sprinting, hiding, and avoiding all the right places :) 

Carnival.  I was lucky...didn't get it too bad. :)

Because it was Carnival.. our president told us to stay inside for most of the day. Which meant... lots and lots of good studying, with a few homemade banana splits in there. It was interesting how much I was able to learn and how strongly I was able to feel the spirit during those two day. Anyone.. if you are ever feeling down, pick up a New Era or Ensign and just read. I promise you... you will find answers and guidance. I found so many great stories in the Liahonas that we have pilled up in our house :)

This week we also had a meeting with President and Sister Richardson and interviews with President. Man, I always LOVE seeing those two. It’s like they open their mouth and just automatically I can feel the spirit.

My family -- In the mission life.

We also had a baptism this week. Walter.  He is so so great. And so strong.  He's 19 years old and really wants to go on a mission in a few years.  We've been teaching him for about a month now, and I can really see him as a great leader one day.  He bore his testimony at the baptism and it was like from someone who's been a member all their life.  It was a great day :)

Walter's baptism

This next week.... I think may be the best week of my mission. We are going to get to listen to Elder Holland. TWICE! Once tomorrow. He’s coming here to Otavalo to talk to two stakes so we’re taking some investigators, and going early with them to get seats. Everyone here is preparing.. going crazy that they get to listen to an apostle. It is suuuch a blessing. Something that they´ll probably never get again in their lives. Maybe more than being excited for me, I am soo so excited for all the members that live here. Then, on Wednesday, all the missionaries are going to Quito for a conference with Elder Holland, and all of us. I feel so blessed to have this opportunity and can’t wait to hear the counsel he has for me personally. Definitely going to remember this for a long time!!

Don't worry....I didn't miss Valentines Day :)  Us and the Relief Society President

This week while I was studying I found a quote that I loved... and wanted to share with you guys. It’s from Parley P. Pratt when he was called on ANOTHER mission after serving for 25 years. He said, "When the Spirit of God is upon me, I think it matters very little what I suffer, what I sacrificed- whether I secure the honor or dishonor of men, or where I die. If it so be that I keep the faith, fight the good fight, and finish my course with joy, I have all eternity before me, in which to enjoy myself." I think he says it all. And is such a great example of true service and devotion to the Lord. Our time here really is so short. I can’t even imagine the day that we will get to see our Heavenly Father, and have ETERNITY to live with Him and our families with complete joy. Remember... righteousness is so worth it. 

I love you all!!!

Pray for me tomorrow night. I’ll make sure to take good notes so I can tell you all about it.

Oreos fritos.  No hay nada mejor.
Translation:  Fried Oreos! There is nothing better!

Hermana Yorgason