Dates!!!

Lots of new things this week. I have a new companion, Sister Banks, and she is great. She comes from Arizona and has 10 other siblings, 7 of which are adopted! We got a brand new car, so of course what's the first thing I do?... spill :) I'm still me! I may be a missionary, but the clumsy moments, I believe, have only increased. We are also moving to a new apartment in a few weeks, so are starting to pack up... Let me tell you, after 10 years of missionaries living in one apartment, you collect a lot of stuff. Random stuff. But it should be good.

Something super exciting happened this weekend. The Young Single Adults were having a Luau and a couple of our investigators were going so we attended. While I was there I saw one of my good friends John Doe from BYUI!!! It was so good to see him and catch up. It was a little surreal. I can't believe I have already been out a semesters worth of time. Time just flies. So I just wanted to shout out to all my friends: I miss you, keep in touch and I love you all!

So this week has been the best for setting baptismal dates!! Oliver, who we have been praying for to get a confirmation to be rebaptized, has finally received his confirmation!!! And he knows without a doubt this is God's church and he wants to join. I'm elated for him; it will be the best day. Another amazing experience happened while setting a date for Chris. He told us 3 weeks ago that he wanted to be baptized, but has been flaky in actually setting a date. He was trying to decide if it should be before or after his vacation to Jamacia. We took him to a fireside where the lesson was perfect. It was all about receiving revelation. We committed him to choose a date and pray to know if its right. He said he would, but 2 days later when we met with him he still hadn't. We told him right then that we should get on our knees and you pray to know when you should be baptized. It was the most amazing prayer. He didn't say very much; the prayer was about 7 minutes long with 5 of those minutes being silence. When he concluded the prayer, he said August 28th!!! Later, me and Sister Banks were talking, and I said how there was a specific moment during the prayer where the Spirit was so strong. I felt peace and I knew he had just received his answer. Sister Banks was shocked because she had gotten the exact same feeling during the prayer. It's amazing how the Spirit will always testify of truth. I love it and I am so excited for him to continue preparing for baptism. It was a really great week and there is much more coming up. I can't wait! It's already been a great transfer.

Sister Garbrick

Transfers!

So i got the call today, Sister Banks is joining me for the new transfer. I met her briefly at last weeks Sisters Conference. I'm super excited! The next transfer is going to be great. We have 2 on date and one just nearly there!! But the past week has been very different. Haha. My trainer is going home, so there have been a lot of different activities for it.

We saw a couple of her family members. Her brother Rehn, his wife and four boys came out to visit her family in Maryland and stopped by Virginia and took us with them to the Air and Space museum. So fun. It was so strange to be with a family, since we have been with solely singles the past 3 months. Haha. It was funny, there was an intense game of slug bug going on in the back seat and it reminded me of past family vacations. We also had lunch with her Uncle Lincoln who is actually her great Uncle. I think he is great. He actually lives in Arlington and met us in Shirlington for the most amazing lunch!! It was delicious. Fun family times. He worked in the senate for a long time and had great info about the area.

We also attended her departing fireside where all the leaving missionaries contact their past converts and investigators to see them before they leave. All the missionaries give their final testimonies. It was a bit depressing for someone like me who is really young in the mission, but they also had very good advice. It was great to see how much their converts love them and never have forgotten them. It was special.

Our investigators are all doing so well! We took Oliver to the visitor center and it was the best experience. He is from the Ivory Coast and originally spoke French. There happened to be a Sister from France who gave us a tour and put the program at the Christis in French for him to listen to. It was the best. The spirit was strong. He loved the temple and took tons of pictures. There was no doubt that was God's house. It was funny. We were looking at the pictures of the inside and there was a picture of the sealing room. I told him that's where couples get married and he said that's where I need to be. Then I told him that's where he needs to be... He shook his head and laughed. He is stilling praying about being rebaptized, but I feel the answer will soon come. Will everyone please pray for him to get his answer? I know it will come.

Sister Garbrick

Lakeeta's Baptism

Lakeeta got baptized on Saturday and it was the greatest!!!!! We had been prepping her all week about what time her baptism is and the importance of her being on time... but of course Lakeeta wouldn't be Lakeeta without being 20 minutes late to her own baptism. Lucky for her, it couldn't start without her. She was so funny and so nervous about what to do and getting her hair wet. Once the program started the spirit was immediately present, which was especially great because we had 2 other investigators there plus 2 other sets of missionaries brought their investigators too. Elder Holmstead, our zone leader, baptized her. The baptism was great; she came up smiling and laughing. Baptisms are the greatest. I just love the feeling of the Lord's love and happiness when someone makes that covenant, it seems so tangible.

The rest of the week has been eventful too, a lot of our investigators are really progressing. We have 3 that come to everything, church, institute, FHE and even are all volunteering to help clean the church building on Saturday. Chris and Charles are both scheduled to be baptized August 14th and Oliver is still praying for an answer to be baptized again. I just know it will happen in its own good time. This past week the mission has really stressed the importance of teaching the intro to the Book of Mormon. It is so important to really have our investigators understand Moroni's promise in chapter 10. We have taught this promise to all our investigators and the blessings are so apparent. Answers always come.

We had a few fun things that happen this week. Since we have so many African members in our congregation, our ward mission leader held an African party. There was real African food served and African trivia. It was the greatest!! The food was good spicy rice, lamb, fish and yams. It was really good. We also had a Sisters Conference at the Mission Home. It was fun, very girly and pink. Me and Sister Le Sueur were in charge of the game, so we played the missionary version of the newly-wed game. We called it "Whose Companion Are You? It was funny. We had questions like "What is one word that describes your companion in the morning?" "What is your companions most used approach?" "Who was the last person they received a letter from?" It was a fun way to meet the sisters. I have finally met all of them, so I am no longer the "New One." Yay. I'm so excited for transfers next week. It's going to be interesting; I wonder who will be my new companion? Only time will tell...

I almost forgot! We saved another animal! I don't know what it is about this place, but we've become animal rescuers. Haha. Gabi was meeting us at our apartment to play tennis for our workout time. (By the way its my new favorite thing. I'm pretty sure when I get back from the mission, I'm going to be the next Anna Korniconia, so just a heads up). Anyway, Gabi found a huge turtle in the middle of the road, so of course we had to save it and release it into the wildness. We named it Rosie and we kept it in one of our pots while we did our studies in the morning than released it in the afternoon. Good times and a great week :)

Sister Garbrick

4th of July

4th of July was crazy busy. Everywhere was packed with patriotic visitors. It was the best! We street contacted everywhere. We didn't see any fireworks that night, but on the 3rd the singles ward invited us over to the ward BBQ. Before we left, they insisted that they shoot the fireworks off for us, even though it wasn't quite dark enough. They were so kind, he said there wasn't many things he could do to serve us but this was one way so he did. It was great.We also made a patriotic cake, it was red velvet cake with white cream cheese frosting and blue candles on top spelling a 4. It was the only blue thing we had! Oh yeah! Our funny moment of the holiday: We ran into a Jehovah Witness missionary and me and Sister Le Sueur were both wearing blue trying to be patriotic. She asked if we always have to wear blue and I said that we didn't have to, but we were just celebrating 4th of July. She rolled her eyes... then it dawned on me that they don't celebrate holidays! Haha. Yep, just another reason why they don't agree with us. She probably found us a bit ridiculous. Ha ha. Oh well, she was nice and we had a great discussion.

So the heat this week is breaking records. I have never experienced such heat... I changed my mind about the humidity. It really is as bad as they say. You walk outside and it hits you like a wall. You look at the sky and there is a literal haze in the air. It all looks blurry. There is no such thing as looking good, everyone just sweats and accepts it. Water becomes your best friend. We freeze at least three water bottles a night to last us the next day. Its so strange, here you can feel the building of heat. A week will get increasingly hotter till its the hottest and most exhausting, then the next day comes and you feel the clouds are different and the storm is on its way. The clouds get dark and heavy, then late in the afternoon BUCKETS of water, a literal down poring, occurs. There is no cover and you become soaked. Then everything is cool again for the rest of the day and a few following and then the build up of heat begins again!! Its the strangest cycle, but at least it's predictable.

Most amazing miracle: This Sunday the lesson in Gospel Principles was on baptism. I was pretty nervous since we had just had some pretty intense discussions and lessons about baptism with some of our investigators and we thought that a lesson just following that would be a bit of over kill, but really it was the best. We were able to answer a lot of their questions that they had from the lesson we had given previously and one of our investigators invited himself to baptism!!! He asked us when he could be baptized!!! Music to my ears. Chris will be getting baptized two weeks from this Saturday, the last weekend of Sister Le Sueur's mission. She is ecstatic, and so am I. We also have Lakeeta's baptism this week. I am super excited! She's my first actual my teachee getting baptized. It will change her life and her kids life. I cant wait! Pictures to come next week :)

Love Sister Garbrick

Watermelon, Watermelon

This week has been a week full of fantastic investigators. I love them all!! I'll start out with Chris. He is a referral from a recent convert, Daniel. He is the greatest and had already attended family home evening, institute and church on Sunday before our first lesson. We began teaching him, and both me and Sister Le Sueur would agree, that it wasn't us that was leading the lesson at all, but the Spirit. It inspired us to teach about families and prayer. Daniel bore his most humble testimony of when he prayed to know the church and the book of Mormon are true and the undeniable confirmation that he received. At the end of our lesson, Chris offered his own sincere prayer and the Spirit was so strong. We asked him what he was feeling, and he said, "The Spirit. I like it. When can we meet again?" That is the best thing a missionary can hear other than "I want to be baptized." Haha. I can't wait to teach Chris again, but more importantly for him to pray on his own to get the confirmation for himself, because I know he will. There is no doubt in my mind. I love the spirit.

This weekend was fun, we are teaching 2 Africans, one is from the Ivory Coast and the other is from Ghana. And unfortunately for us, our appointments for both of them were scheduled during the soccer game of Ghana against the USA in the World Cup... No Bueno haha. One canceled and when we showed for the other, his apartment was filled with friends and family rooting for Ghana, cheering and eating food. I loved it. It reminded me of home! I wish could have joined, but it was great to see their family united. Such good times. So we rescheduled and will teach him this week.

We also had a great YSA Activity that we went to this Saturday. It was huge! It was 4 singles wards together. So basically it was all of northern Virginia. They were having a BBQ at a park with a large pavilion with music playing and soccer and softball games going. There were 4 other sets of missionaries. It was great. We were able to meet each others investigators and I was able to meet new missionaries. I had never seen them before, so that was nice. We had two of our investigators come and one felt so comfortable that he began to break dance and got a dance started. It was fun. I love serving in a singles ward. We have the best activities to go to.

My favorite investigator story comes from the sweetest Korean old lady I've ever met. We met her tracting and decided to stop by last week to drop off a Book of Mormon. We saw her look through her peep hole, but she didn't answer. So we tried again this week and she let us right in. She apologized for not letting us in last time, but she was drunk and felt it was inappropriate. This week she was particularly lonely and just needed to talk, so we let her talk, but she also wanted to serve us. And she did all right! She feed us the most watermelon I have ever eaten. She pulled out this giant watermelon that her nephew had given her. Since she lives by herself she couldn't finish it on her own, so she literally cut up half the watermelon into triangles and put it on a plate and told us to eat. So me and Sister Le Sueur began to eat. About 2 slices in, I was beginning to be full. Susan noticed I was wiping my hands, appearing to be done and so she urged me to continue eating. It was at this moment I realized she intended for us to finish her watermelon. I was able to sneak a look to Sister Le Sueur. She just smiled and took a bite of watermelon. So we finished our visit and the watermelon. We left so full !!! I don't believe I will ever eat that much watermelon again, or least not till our next visit with Susan.

Sister Garbrick

Temple

This week was great! We had a lot of great lessons and had 4 investigators at church; its the best! We got a surprise contact by contacting at the metro in the morning. We invited him to church, got him a ride and he came! I love when people follow through!! We have a lot of people cancel or aren't home when we planned, so its a battle. When one pulls through, its such a tender mercy!

This week we also went on exchanges with some sisters that live close by. One was sick, so I went out with Sister Aulava to check on some people in her area. It was nice to see a different place. Her area is a lot smaller than mine, but it didn't matter. There were so many new faces and we actually saw the elders they share the area with. It was nice to visit with her. She has only been out 2 transfers more than me, so we were able to relate to how much we have learned, how much we still have to learn, but also how happy and new it all is.

Fathers day was the best; I got finally go to the temple! It really was the best way to remember my dad. He grew up watching the DC temple being built and later working security there. I grew up hearing all about the temple, how beautiful it was, and how my dad had painted the lines in the visitor's center parking lot for his eagle scout project. So everything I saw I was oohing and ahhing. It was the perfect night too. The sunset was gorgeous with orange, and pinks and purples.

I can't write this week without mentioning how today is a special day of remembrance of a dear friend. I can't believe it has been a year. As a member of the church I grew up understanding the plan of salvation, at least I thought I did. It wasn't until I taught it as a missionary that I realized the real joy and happiness that can come from it. Watching someone realize that there is a better way, that there is something different, a more loving plan, and a way to see loved ones again is incredible. Seeing it in their eyes has made me so grateful for the plan he has given us and how much he really loves each of us.

Love Sister Garbrick

NO NYLONS!!!

Yes it is correct, Nylons are out! At least till mid September, but I'll take it. All this came about because we had a mission conference with Elder and Sister Hinckley. Yes, the son of the former President, Gordon B. Hinckley. It was the best. The spirit was so strong and there were times while listening to Elder Hinckley, especially when bearing his testimony, that he sounded just like his dad. They informed us of a lot of new changes that are going to be happening. There is a new Mormon.org site and new ads around the world. They have implemented cells phones and are even piloting texting with our mission. We're one of three missions they are testing it with. They also mentioned the idea of using Facebook!! Can you believe it? Facebook?! I'm not sure how that will work, but they are really putting a lot of trust in us. President Albright says its only because were obedient and need to continue.

Anyways the best changes came from Sister Hinckley. The news came, straight from Salt Lake, that the dress code is changing!!!! Color and pattern are for sure in, Nylons are out, suit jackets are out, knee length skirts are IN!!!! Say goodbye to all the frumpy mid-calf skirts. Apparently the church for the past 18 months has been doing intense research to learn how missionaries can be more approachable and normal. The results came in, and it looks like the more updated look has been approved. Yay! I'm so excited! I came at the perfect time and the Lord knows.

So this week was wonderful, we finally saw Manny again. He was the one who went into detox for his drinking problem but he has called us nearly everyday since to talk about the Book of Mormon and plan of salvation. We saw him and taught him and set a date of baptism. Yay! We also taught the golden investigator, Oliver. He is from the Ivory Coast and he is amazing. We taught him the 1st lesson and didn't see a real impact until the next time we showed him the restoration video. He felt the spirit so strong, believes it true and wanted to learn more. He came to church and loved it, he is so dedicated now reading, praying and coming to activities. He also has 3 other single brothers! Jackpot for the singles ward missionaries! Haha. Preach My Gospel says to teach families and we sure are. It's great because normally we have to pass all families to family ward, but this one we get to keep. I love it.

Sister Garbrick

My First Transfer

Well my first transfer is complete and it was amazing. I did everything I wanted and served and met people that I love and will never forget. But lucky for me, nothing has to change. My companion and I are staying together. It will be her last transfer and were going to help finish her mission strong. I love our area and our ward. We are central to everything.

In fact, we spent our p-day in D.C. and it was so fun. I love the monuments! We met 3 LDS families from Utah. I love when people say hi, especially here because there aren't very many members. I love being a representative of the Church. We rode the metro in (another thing I love; every city should have a metro. You met all sorts of people).

Anyway, the final week of transfer was amazing. Me and Sister Le Sueur set high goals. We reached them and experience tons of miracles. It was an act of faith. We told ourselves it would happen and it did. There were several times we were lead by the Spirit to be where we needed to be in order to meet the people who we needed to meet.

The most amazing experience was with Mannie. We were contacting at the King St. metro for about a half an hour. We were ready to head back home when we decided to give this last young adult a card. He stopped us and asked if we could talk. It was starting to get dark, but both me and Sister Le Sueur both felt prompted to stop. He wanted to talk in private, so we walked to a place where it was quieter to talk. Mannie had just gotten out of the hospital and was really down on life. He proceeded to tell us how much he hated his life and he just wanted it end and wanted to know how we could help him. We proceeded to teach him about the Atonement and told we could help him know his Heavenly Father and his son Jesus Christ. We explained that we were representatives of Christ and that we were there for him if he would trust us. By the time we left he was talking about going straight to a detox center instead of his other plans which probably would have been so much worst. He has called us ever since and we dropped of a Book of Mormon for him, which he has been reading non stop. Its fantastic we have so much hope in him. We call him my greenie miracle. We are going to be able to witness the change in his life.

I love missions and I love the Atonement. It just doesn't get better than this!! I am so happy. The Church is true and the book is blue!!

Sister Garbrick

HOT HOT HOT!

June has come and it is hotter than ever and the humidity is insane. But I don't mind it, it's pretty strange and sticky but I'm getting use to it. The one thing I'm not getting used to are the summer lightning and thunder storms that come out of nowhere. We got caught in two of these down pours yesterday. We have forgotten our umbrellas a lot, so we have decided to just leave them in the car because you never know when the rain is coming. Unfortunately for me, I always have to help back up the car and get the wettest, but its fun. It's what missionary work is about, rain or shine:) I love it.

Memorial day was the greatest, especially here where people are so patriotic. It really makes me grateful for this country, how it was created and how it prepared a way for Joseph Smith to restore the gospel. We also got to go with our ward to the Reagan Airport and cheer on the veterans that were coming to celebrate memorial weekend. They were the greatest, sweetest old men and women. Some were so jovial and other were tearing up with gratitude. It was quite a shindig with balloons, a live band and a dressed up fifties girls.

The work has been fantastic. We are teaching so much and there are so many people here. I have yet to talk to the same person twice, but it is great. I love it. We have had a bunch of member referrals and we have taught two already. We are teaching a Methodist minister from Korea named Song. He is really sensitive to the Spirit and has great concept of prophets and a need for them. I can't wait to see the difference the Book of Mormon will have in his life. Stephanie is another member refferal. She is great too; she has such an understanding of the Bible and the Atonement. She has alot of questions, but it's great because you know she is really trying to understand. We taught her the Plan of Salvation and barely got through the premortal life before our time was up! The lessons are so in depth and Spirit filled. I love the Spirit! It's the only way and the best way to learn. Well I love you all. Have a great week and happy Memorial Day!!

Crabs, Bugs, Spirit and Bus Hut

So this week was fantastic! There so many fun, exciting and great spiritual moments. I will write the fun new things I love about Virginia. We saw our first Maryland Blue Crab!!! It was in the gutter and all the neighborhood kids were screaming and poking at it, so we offered to help save it. We went to our trunk and got out box that held our Book of Mormons and helped the crab inside it and the kids carried it down to the Potomac. We're not sure if that was really good for it, but we feel like we saved it. Haha. And I saw my first firefly! Sister Le Sueur calls them lightning bugs. They are the most exciting thing, were going to catch them when more come out and make a video, so stay posted! :)

This week miracles happened in the Colonial 2nd Singles Ward. We had 4 member referrals for boyfriends/girl friends/good friends, and as sister missionaries we are so grateful! We are already teaching 4 other people, but just knowing that they trust us with the people they love and care about is so humbling. We have such a busy week lined up, and we even taught this morning on our p-day. The man is a minister for a Korean Methodist church and is dating the sweetest girl in our congregation. The spirit was so strong in our lesson and they said are going to study the Book of Mormon together.

The Sunday that we got the referrals, we were heading home from a lesson and were so filled with the Spirit. We had only a half hour left and planned on going to a metro that was a little further than one that was near by our home. We could have gone to the one closer but we felt impressed to follow our original plans. There are great blessing in following plans because the Lord knows were we will be and He can send the people that are prepared. That was the case for this evening. We met 7 new people who wanted to be taught. Since we're in a singles ward, we have to pass a lot of these people to family ward missionaries, but we met one young man that we can teach and felt the Spirit so strong.

He was waiting in the bus stop outside of the metro, we started teaching him about Joseph Smith and recited the First Vision. The spirit immediately filled the little bus hut...I'm not sure what it's called, but we proceeded to read the Moroni 8:3-5 Moronis promise. He read it out loud than re-read it. He said he has recognized this in his life while learning about other religions and not feeling like it was truth, but when he has learned about Christ that he felt truth. He said that the scripture sound true and he wanted to learn more. We have an appointment set up with him and we're so excited to teach him more. But this is the most amazing part: as we were teaching him, the Spirit was so strong that people were drawn to listen to us teach him. Three other people walked in and joined the lesson. It's like flies to the light. When the Spirit is strong, people can recognize it with the light of Christ they have. In preach my gospel it teaches that when they are taught the gospel they will literally remember the truth because they knew it before. I figure that they already made the choice to come down here and they just need to choose it again. I love missions and I love being able to teach. The church is true; it's such a blessing to be the person that witnesses this change and the discovery and enlightment that the spirit gives.

DC South

So it official, I am a sister missionary. I had my first awkward moment with touch. It was after a lesson and one of the members who was joining us was walking out and I forgot his name so I touched his arm to talk to him. He looked at me with a crazy look and I looked back in shock!!! It felt so wrong. Haha. I will never do it again. But if that wasn't enough, the investigator tried giving me a hug goodbye, I avoided it and stuck out my hand for a hand shake. Haha. I never thought it would happen!

A few other typical missionary experiences started happening this week: first door slam. It's okay, I took it like a champ. You just laugh it off and move on. It was also my first week without any mail. So I know before I left I said that I really didn't care if anyone wrote me and its no big deal. I was totally wrong. Haha Letters are like the found 5 dollar bill in your pocket of the mission. When you look in the mail box and its something for you, you feel like you can take it and use it. So letters are welcomed, and it's no good when your trainer who is been out for over a year and is not suppose to get more than the greenie who in the first transfer is overwhelmed by letters. So help a sister out, haha! Total love though. I love all who support me and I know you all care.

Anyways, the work has been good. The times are hard for people. A lot of them have lost jobs and have personal struggles. We help when we can, but it's not the same. We give light and relief through the gospel, even though sometimes we could just go out and help job search with them. Haha.

We had a great Sunday! We invited two people to come to church and none of them came, but 3 people who told us they weren't available or busy on Sunday came instead!! It was the best surprise. When each new investigator walked in, me and Sister Le Sueur's faith grew. It gave us the faith to continue inviting people. If you just offer the gospel, people always come around because it's truth. And really, who wouldn't want a little more truth in this world?

Love Sister Garbrick

Mother's Day Was Great!

So it was yet another great week. There were some great highlights, including talking to my family on Mothers Day. It was the best Sunday just to remember families and how great they are. I was also a part of the first baptism of my mission. Patrick is so fantastic; he will be such a strong member of the church. He is already planning on transferring to BYU and is thinking about going on a mission. We support it of course! Haha.

The baptism was a great service, but it was what happened behind the scenes that really made it great. Me and Sister Le Sueur had to get there early to drain and re-fill the font because there was a baptism earlier that day. Well, the chain that connected to the cork broke off. So here we are, using the end of our broom stick and standing knee high in water trying to get it out. Finally we got it draining. But when it was time to start filling it, the cork wouldn't stay in! After some great strength, we finally got it in and filled the font before the people started arriving. Nothing like a little pressure!

This week was meeting filled. We had District and Zone Conference and since I am the greenie to the area, I was asked to speak at both!! I was a bit taken back and really nervous. For District Conference I talked about attitude, which wasn't so bad. It's always fun to talk about being happy! Then at Zone conference (a large meeting with the mission president and leaders) I had to talk about the purpose: to invite others to come unto Christ by helping them receive the restored gospel through faith in Jesus Christ and his atonement, repentance, baptism, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost and enduring to the end. That seems like a lot, but it's in everything we do, so I could speak on anything really. I was overwhelmed, but thankfully the Spirit lead me and my thoughts and it tied really well into the topic of teaching with the Spirit. It's so great, when you put faith in the Lord he always pulls through.

The work is going great and we are constantly meeting people from all over: El Salvador (a ton Lonny you would love it), Ethiopia, Ghana, China, Burma, Scotland, the list goes on and on. It's amazing! I love to hear the different accents even though sometimes I can't understand at all. Buts it's okay, it usually leaves them with a good laugh.

Some of my favorite stories from this week come in the form of notes. The first note was from a lady who had an appointment and wasn't going to make it. This is how the note went: "Dear mormon.org, I wont be making it. Please come again tonight at 6." Haha, Mormon.org is the website we tell everyone to visit and is on every card we give. She must have forgotten what to call us; it was great. The other note came from the sweetest old lady. We were at a complex right before another appointment when we noticed her taking in bags of laundry. We offered to help her and she denied us. But when we got out of the appointment there was a note from her on our car saying that she just saw our tags and realized who we are and wanted to talk. She gave us her apartment number and invited us in. She was great and we're going to talk to her again. So always offer service! It may take a second, but they will soon realize you are a servant of god. Missionary Tip of the Week: Sister Garbrick. Haha.

Well, it's not too long this week but there are always great things to come. I seriously never know what each day will bring, but that is what is so exciting. I'm searching and teaching the elect and the ones who are prepared and ready. The Spirit is so strong and makes it easier to press forward. The best are the children. When adults are too hard to feel the Spirit, the kids always do. They make our days so much better. They literally run to us, smiling and laughing. There was one who told us he loved us and another who blew us kisses. So cute. The Lord really loves all of His kids.

Love Sister Garbrick

First Week in the Field

So the plane ride was nerve wracking. The whole time I was thinking, "What am I doing? Am I crazy for doing this?" I guess being released from the MTC bubble is a humbling experience. As you walk around the airport as a group dressed all up with tags, you receive all sorts of looks. The realization occurs that you are no longer just preparing to be a missionary, but you really are one. I still stood out being the only sister with 6 elders.

We went to the luggage pickup where we were greeted by the president and the assistants. They soon informed us that we would hand our luggage to the president to take, for we would ride the metro home contacting! I think they saw my shock. My eyes were huge and my mouth was opened wide. I wish I could lie, but i was terrified. We soon had pass along cards in hand and were sitting next to complete strangers telling them about the gospel. It was a rough go at it. When we met with the president again, I thought we would be heading back to the mission home... But, nope it was time to go to George Mason, a local university, to street contact some more. I did much better speaking with kids my own age. I met with two girls who wanted to learn more!! The next night and morning were spent getting to know each other and being taught about the mission.

Next was transfer meeting, I was introduced to my trainer, Sister Le Sueur, who is from Idaho Falls. She is fantastic; I really like her. She went to school at BYU and studied Physics. She is quirky and funny and we get along really well. Sometimes we talk too much, but it's nice. We are serving in the Colonial 2nd ward in Alexandria, Virginia, which is the largest singles ward in the mission. Yay! I love it! It's exactly what I wanted.

It is amazing the success they are having in the ward. The members are all so willing to come to lessons and give us referrals. So many of the sisters in the ward served missions and are such assets in the lessons. It helps me to see two people who know what they are doing. We have a baptism this Saturday. His name is Patrick, and he is amazing. He loves church and the Book of Mormon. I am speaking at his baptism about the Holy Ghost. I'm so surprised he asked me, being that he had been taught by 3 other sisters who will be attending. I hope to do well.

We also have 3 other dates lined up, it's amazing. I'll share more about them later. We have a big push in our mission to invite, invite, invite. We are taught to always be inviting to baptism and setting dates at our first lesson. Its sounds bold, and it is, but people need to know what we're offering. In fact it is tradition in the mission that when you first arrive, you must invite your first contact to baptism. It was scary, but i did it. It was at the metro on my first day. I was talking to a really nice girl named Lauren from Michigan. She just graduated and moved her a week ago for an internship. I told her a little bit about the church and how we help others to come unto Christ and be baptized and then asked if she would want to be baptized... she said YES!!! I was shocked and immediately looked at my trainer. She graciously picked up and finished the conversation! We got her info, and have visited her once and will teach her the first lesson later today. I am so excited. It is what my greenie calls "greenie faith that leads to greenie miracle." So Lauren is my miracle. Thank goodness for the Spirit that teaches, because I know what I said to her wasn't very eloquent, but she felt something.

There have been several miracles that i have already seen within this short week. On Monday me and my companion had planned to go street contacting in a particular neighborhood but instead felt prompted that we didn't have time to drive that far before our next appointment, so we instead went to a near by shopping center. We met all sorts of people, but one lady was great. She was Jewish, but had great Mormon friends. She had actually heard a lot about our humanitarian services through the church and thought that we might be able to help her friend in New Mexico who just lost her job and was having to move the following week and needed some help. She asked if we could do something. We told her we would get the missionaries in her area to go help her. She was so gracious. But also mentioned that we were in her dream the night before. She said she dreamed that she was having a problem and there was men that she thought were bad so so she called 911 for help and they sent two women. And she wondered why they would send girls instead of guys to help her. She said it all made sense. I cant believe someone had dreamed of us, it was amazing that she would even recognize it and shared it with us it was great.

There was also so many other neat things that happen throughout the day that helps me realize the Lord is really leading the way for his work to go forth. I really love Virginia; it is beautiful. We're in city, but because of the trees you feel secluded. It's hard to explain. I had my first day with humidity and I love it. My companion thinks its always hot, but I love it. It's like a warm blanket. Although, I must admit that when it was 90 degrees and humid it was a bit rough, but still not as bad as everyone warms you of. They also say to just wait till July and August if it was this bad in the spring.

There have been some funny things that have happened too. At church I accidentally introduced myself as Brittney instead of Sister Garbrick in our ward council. After church, someone called me by my first name and I was shocked when I turned around it and was a friend of mine from my freshman year at BYU-I. He soon noticed the tag and was also shocked. He didn't know I was going on a mission. It was a little weird, but also nice to see a familiar face.

My favorite story of the week, comes from a mother - daughter pair we are teaching. They are the most kind, sweet ladies. They have had a hard life, and are on welfare so they really like the government. It was my first time visiting and so the mom, who is pretty old, showed me the wall of pictures of her family. I was admiring them saying that it's great to remember family. She agreed, but said that the people she look at most were Obama and Jesus. When looking at the wall it was easy to see Obama since he had the largest picture in the center of the wall. Her picture of Jesus was much more difficult to find. It was a 1 inch by 2 inch picture of Christ that she had stuck in the corner of the Obama frame. Hilarious. She just kept saying... "That's right. Obama and Jesus, Obama and Jesus. Love them."

Another great story is about Dorothy. She is unfortunately having some health problems, so we arranged for the elders to come and give a priesthood blessing. After the elders had fully explained what a blessing is, that there are two parts she would need to pick two out of the three gentlemen that were there to help. She took a moment thought, than said, "I want the new girl" as she pointed to me. I couldn't help but giggle. They re-explained and went on with the blessing. At the end she said it was too bad I couldn't give the blessing to her, she just really likes my smile. I took it as a compliment. Haha! Well this is probably way too much, but I just had so much to say. I love it!!!

I love you,

Sister Garbrick

I'm LEAVING!

So its my last p-day and I'm so happy. Unfortunately though, I am the lone wolf in my action. My whole district has left but me. But I don't care, at least I get one last day to write letter, do laundry, and go to the temple and have a devotional. I told my district it's going to be an apostle and they will all have wished they would have stayed with me and not abandon me. Haha! No it's really okay.

Well this past week has been on fire in practicing my teaching and becoming better. We had a day of marathon teaching: We taught three 45 minute lessons in a row. I committed 2 baptism. Of course here everyone is willing to get baptized, but it still feels great. I also got to got to got to the referral center for the last time in English, unfortunately the church has stopped their advertisements on tv, and there aren't enough people to contact throughout the day so they are closing it. But on my last day I testified to 4 people of the truthfulness of the gospel and sent a dvd of the restoration to a lady in the south. I didn't have a clue what she was saying, but she was happy so I kept talking. I don't know if that is considered the gift tongues, but I was grateful for the opportunity. The missionaries are going to deliver the movie, so hopefully something great comes from it.

Oh yeah! New missionaries came in and I found Sister Holland from back home immediately. It was great. We had lunch and dinner together. I also tracked down were she lived and brought her Martenille's to celebrate. I love having someone I know. Also, the Elder from my mission prep class came who is going to Austin's mission. Luck have it, his classroom was right next to me. I got to be an investigator for him for one of his classes. Good times. I love playing the investigators because it helps you realize how you need to be speaking as a missionary and how to really understand their needs.

Oh speaking of packages, I loved them! I got all of them and I got everyone's dear elder letters; they are great!!! Thank you so much! My sisters in my district loved celebrating with the candy and Martenille's. I have pictures I'll be sending shortly:) I just don't have enough time in the MTC. I have loved my MTC time, but I am so anxious to just get teaching. I may not be perfect, or have it down by any means, but the Lord will make me able. I know that.

So Sunday we had a neat experience. The MTC President came to our sacrament meeting because our second counselor was being released. He got to hear our district sing our goodbye song which was "I'll Go Where You Want Me To Go." We did okay... the elders were a bit mono tone, but the Spirit was there. I got to shake his hand and he told me jokingly, after i told him i was going to DC, to "Cry repentance now!!!" Haha! I made sad face because I thought he meant me, but than he corrected himself and said, "To the people." We had a good laugh. Well, time is up. But I love every so much!!!! The support has been so nice and I am so blessed. Now I am so ready to serve... let the people of Virginia know I am on my way!!!

Love Sister Garbrick

Week 2

This week on Sunday for sacrament meeting, everyone was given two topics and had to write a talk. After the sacrament, the branch president picked 2 people to give their talks. I was the lucky winner this week. I was completely surprised. I gratefully prepared a talk but I could have sworn it wasn't going to be me just because 2 districts left this week and it was their last Sunday. But no, of course it was me. It actually went really well and the president's wife thanked me for my talk on hope. She said it was by the spirit that I spoke the words of God. I thought it was the most amazing compliment I have ever been given.

This week had some pretty funny things happen while teaching in the TRC, which is a place where members volunteer to be investigators. We asked this couple what some of their hobbies were and they said they enjoyed going to the temple. haha. During the lesson quoted the temple movie. Hilarious old people, no surprise they accepted the commitment to be baptized!

I also had a fun time in the RC (referral center). This is where we call people who have received the dvd about Christ, a Bible, or a Book of Mormon from us and follow up with them. I had 12 people in a row and answer and I testified of truth to almost half of them. My teacher said he had never heard so many people answer for 1 person. It was good but i didn't place a Book of Mormon... bummer, maybe next time. Although, I did have a great conversation with a Jehovah's Witness.

Oh yeah how can I forget!!! I got my traveling itinerary! I leave next Wednesday and get into DC by 3:00 pm!!! Yay I can't wait. I just met my elders who are going with me. Their classroom is one floor above me. There will be 6 elders and then me, the solo sister. Hollar! Another cool thing: I met 5 other sisters who are serving the same time as their brothers, so mom I guess it's really not that uncommon.

So time is running out!! I wanted to share some bonding inside jokes me and my district have. Everyone calls me Sista G when are out of class joking and laughing, but in class I'm strictly Sister Garbrick. We always justify anything we say, right or wrong, by finishing our statement with "just sayin." So we save ourselves when we say something. Everyone else just looks at us like we're crazy. We also have a habit saying "preach my gospel" in place of "oh geeze."

Time is out, I love you all!!!! Till next week.

Sister Garbrick

First Week

So hello,

Nearly the first week completed! I can't believe how fast it has gone!!! The days are extremely long and busy, but the week is fast. My district is made of 4 sisters and 4 elders. The elders and a sister are going to the Rapid Springs, South Dakota mission. One sister is going to Tacoma, Washington. My companion is going to the Oklahoma City mission. They are all really fun. The sisters and I have bonded over our hate of Nylons. My hate has only but grown!!! I feel like I only wear a pair a day till have a run.

The first day was a bit of a shell shock and was only finished by all of us sisters being locked out of our room. But that isn't the last of my typical clutsy moments. Me and Sister Porter, my Companion from Sugar City, Idaho, were going to Zone meeting. We thought we were running behind, so we went into the first room we saw open. It only took a second to realize this was an Asian zone having a testimony in Japanese. Haha! Yeah we looked like fish out of water. After a minute or so we noticed our zone walking in the hall and they all enjoyed our humiliation.

So I have been really lucky to see everyone I know at the MTC. I've run into my mission prep buddy Sister Mccombs and I shouted with excitement scaring all the elders walking beside her. I also have seen Elder Garner, Holli's cousin, at dinner. Its nice to see familiar faces, but everyone is super nice. It is the friendliest place on earth!

This week we have already began teaching and doing calls at the.. I don't remember whats its called. There are so many acronyms that I can't remember them all! Geeze, this timer is stressing my out. Teaching is truly all by the spirit and preparation. We taught one about prayer that went so nice and smooth. Then another that was, well, a beat down... We taught for 60 minutes and they forgot to come get us at the 40 minute mark, so we just kept going. Our teachers are really great, but it seems a bit unorganized. They are trying new curriculum on our district. So, we have mostly just learned about people asking questions finding their needs and loving them. It's interesting for sure.

Well there were some surprising callings made, I have been called as coordinating sister after only 3 days. I'm a bit over whelmed. I have new meetings to go to that don't allow me to go to choir. Bummer. But it's pretty neat; I get to welcome new sisters in the zone this Wednesday and I work closely with the zone leaders on behalf of the sisters. My companion is really happy for me, but i think she has to be! Haha! No, she is great and really sincere.

WOW time goes so fast. So the rundown of all my feelings: I'm overwhelmed but empowered. The Spirit is so strong and you feel the Spirit teaching everyday. I have such a desire to serve and am getting so excited to meet the people of Virginia. I'm so happy to be serving and have a tag to wear proudly. Although the MTC is definitely nothing I expected, it's different, but not bad. I love you all so much and miss you.

Family: I love you and will be getting letters soon. Please send nylons I'm in need yuck!!! Haha!

Lonny: thanks for the dear elder letter it was a great welcome keep writing letter are great.

Brianna: Congrats on the graduation!!!! I'm so proud of you!!! I wrote you a letter you should get it this week.

Mikalyn: Thanks again for doing the blog for me you da best:) I hope your looking tan from the cruise and hope your enjoying your family.

Love Sister Garbrick

First One

My name is Brittney and I'm going on a mission