Wednesday, December 2, 2009

El Dia de Gracias

El Dia de Gracias

I hope we are realizing that the Lord blesses us in every single moment and that turkeys are dying everywhere.

Espero que Esten bien en todos lados! This week I was planning on writing some great stories so here we go.

The Lord works in mysterious ways and keeps us on our toes:

We recieved a referral for home that was on the outskirts of our area. We drive out to find that the home did not exist (strike one) then that the phone number was disconnected (strike two)--False Info-- but in the midst of our searching for the nonexistent house the so-to-speak neighbor had a humble heart and contrite spirit that the Lord wanted to find. We've taught him for the past two weeks and he is coming to church...to be continued.

The Lord sends his servants (again) where he wants them to go: We recieved a referral from the branch president but only a name- we found the phone number and address and appeared, uninvited as usual, one night on the doorstep. Their electricity had been turned off because they had not paid the bill yet so it was dark, Carolina (the mother and member of the National Guard) was wary, questionative and cold. She hesitantly accepted a return visit because we obviously could not meet that night unless we wanted to sit in a circle and hold flashlights. After our first impression we wondered how it would all go down next time we see them (because by this time she had rearranged our visit twice but we were perseverant). Por fin, we arrived to find a dinner table waiting for us and an eager husband and wife telling their story of a year and half vacation from church and a desire to return again to raise their 5 year old boy in the values and foundation of the Gospel.

The Lord prompts scriptures, stories, when someone should speak and when someone should not, this is amazing!

Another referral sent us to an nonexistent mexican lady and instead we got George: a 6' 4" man that just got home from golfing with his buddies, wealthy and half drunk. We began a conversation about him visiting with missionaries before and he clearly said "You ladies go find some other person to save, I'm 65, I'm past saving, and have grandchildren older than you." I don't know what I was thinking as a 5' 4 little missionary but my heart is more defiant than my little body and I quickly disagreed. We were cut off in our discussion by a phone call and he said go find someone else but come visit me another time...not sure what he meant by that so...to be continued....

As you can see our experiences range from every situation- we have met some very dark people and some amazing people that the Lord has put in our path. The Gospel is true- If people understood the Love of Christ and their Divine Nature they would be begging to be baptized...and that is what we are working on.

I love you all so much-- I hope that you are safe, and enjoying every minute. Mom, Thanks for the thoughts, you are golden. Enjoy Thanksgiving every one!! I'll be eating my tamales and thinking of you...mmm...

Cuidense!

Hermana Tuckett

I had my first tamale...didn't eat it right it was hilarious (I'm out of time so that will be in the next letter)

Sunday, November 22, 2009

Lealo!

Familia!

Como Les Va? Well I am beginning my third week here in the Brazos Central area- There are 6 weeks to a transludo (transfer) so I will be either moving in another three or staying here. The Lord has blessed this area immensely- We have another confirmed baptism (Jesus) and believe there are more on the way in the Lord's time. As usual, I became quite sick this past week- I have come to accept that being sick is just another challenge to overcome. Sister Hammeren and I "nos llevamos bien" (we carry well with each other) and have a great time working together. I don't have a ton of time today but next week I will write more stories about our investigators- our life revolves around them it is great :)

Please tell Grandpa and Grandma I recieved their family update in the mail and I am very grateful! Love them both.

There came a time this week where I was discouraged with accomplishing what I needed to get done. I prayed fervently to understand what I needed to pray for to be more in tune with what the Lord wanted me to do. Many times the Lord answers my prayers through scriptures and this time it was 2 Ne 4: 18+, as he felt the same in "the sins which do so easily beset me" but that I know in whom I have trusted as well as the knowledge that I can't do what the Lord wants me to if I rely on "the arm of flesh" or myself. I cannot adequately express what comfort this brought me and I quickly began to pray again that I may follow His spirit better in HIS measurement of "success and progression".

The Mosquitos here are HUGE! I am addicted to salsa (chile) and I could never eat another store bought tortilla.

How is everyone?

Spencer your birthday is coming up! Happy Birthday! Do something crazy for me.

May I have all the kid's e-mails as well so I can write more quickly to them? Thank you. Thanks again for my scriptures that was Christmas and My Birthday all put together.

You know you are a sister missionary when:

You pray even before grocery shopping
You have permanent knee high lines
High heels were a thing of the past- They'll be back!
You vaccuum out the car, change the oil, change a tire in a skirt
New scripture markers make your day
To be con't.....

Twice a week we go to nearby nursing home as well for service- Bingo is the way to go.

Hay mas?

Love you all so much,

Hermana Tuckett

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Brazos!

Familia Amorosa!

There is so much to tell and not much time. I recieved your letter from week nov. 9th and Dad I recieved your reply from Countdown:
Thank you for the scripture.

The News:
- Thank you for sending my scriptures and journal, they aren't here yet but I know they will make it- Mother, you thought you were rid of me when I left...I guess not :) The Lord had a reason for me forgetting my ENGLISH scriptures.
- E-mail rules: I cannot recieve or e-mail anyone out of my family. I won't be able to read anything out side of our family e-mail addresses and please no forwards either! Obedience is the secret ingredient in this work. Thank you :)
Her mailing address is 1111 Golfview Dr., Apt. 1016, Richmond, TX 77469

That next morning after our Dinner with President Saylin we had orientation and met our companions. Her name is Hermana Hammeren from Idaho and only has two transfers left in the mission. During my meeting with President Saylin he recognized her as the most successful missionary right now in the zone and I can back him up on that. He told me to learn everything I can from her. She is obedient, assertive, focused and speaks well. We fit just fine together. I will try and send some pictures in the next couple weeks. My area is called Brazos North, encompassing Rosenberg and the surrounding area. Don't ask me what happened my first two days because I don't remember- you hit the ground and just got so I just did what I was told. We have a car and phone for effectiveness and we do a little dance to back our companion out of a parking spot everytime. The apartment is safe and I we have a workout room, jacuzzi and pool (which we can't use) and there is a parking lot with a median behind our place that I use as a small track for running b/c my comp doesn't run- I feel like a gerbil but that's ok.

Weather: a little humid- perfect temp and I will need my coat in dec and jan, thanks mom.

I love this work- The Lord has bless us immensely. We have two baptisms coming up in the next three weeks- In my first four days we recieved 7 referencias and 4 new investigators. The area is poor, I have never been in a trailer home before and since I arrived I have only been in two houses- most of the wonderful people are from Mexico and many are out of work right now. I am in the outskirts of Houston. We only have a branch here and believe it or not, I am the only person that plays the piano...so....this Sunday I played (and will play for the rest of the transfer) the piano for our sacrament meeting and probably will for relief Society. The Lord was trying to tell me something when I kept having the idea back home to start piano again :)

I'm amazing at the part the Lord plays in every little detail of his work- I'm still becoming accustomed to the way the spanish sounds but the Lord has blessed me to be able to answer questions. When we teach, I just speak when the Holy Ghost prompts and then stop when I feel it stop, It is interesting and different. The Gospel knowledge is just a baby here, some people don't even know what the ten commandments are. Here is an experience:

One of my first days we went to teach Luisa and Jesus, Jesus- has cancer and is being treated near by ( there are a lot of medical services and two hospitals nearby so the demographics consist of such). Only Luisa was there when we were teaching but Jesus came back from the hospital early (unexpectedly) and when he walked in the room the spirit just knocked us over, he has been reading the Book of Mormon during his treatments at the hospital and you can feel what the Lord has planned for him...I will keep you updated. The Member are crucial in our work as well, many help us in our work. The culture is amiable and kind and soft, but they challenge is showing them how important our actions are in our salvation, motivating them to go to church, steps for baptism and such.

I love it all- The Lord doesn't let me doubt and I don't let doubt enter my mind either. I'm sorry for my grammar. I tried to wrap everything together of my first week. It is wonderful and the Lord again is blessing the area incredibly. I'm happy for Casey!! That is so exciting- He will know....

I love you so much- Thank you for your support and love, Let me know how funding goes or if the house sold. Smile!

Talk to you next monday!!

Love,

Hermana Tuckett

Monday, November 9, 2009

Our Missionary Has Arrived!!

Dear Parents,

We are pleased to let you know that your missionary has arrived safely in the Texas Houston South Mission!! They are happy and absolutely wonderful. President Saylin and I are thrilled to welcome them. We had a terrific afternoon and evening with them. They received some training, we had dinner together, and then enjoyed a beautiful testimony meeting together as well. They come with such testimony and strength. You should be very proud of them.

I have attached a photo from our gathering tonight in the mission home. As you can see, there are many smiles. Our six children are also pictured in the front row. Our youngest is 3 and our oldest is 15. They love being a part of your missionary’s life!

I have also listed below the companion’s name (trainer) and area your missionary will be serving in. I am sure it will be fun for you to be able to look up exactly where they will be spending their first 6 weeks!

Again, thank you for the opportunity you have given us to serve with these fine missionaries. We love them already and promise to take good care of them! May you find great joy and blessings as you continue to support them in bringing souls to Christ.

With love,

President and Sister Saylin


Here are the companionships and areas:

Sister Pidge Sister Campbell Pearland

Elder McKinney Elder Chacon Hermann Park

Sister Beasley Sister Greenberg Houston 9

Elder Perez Elder Jenks Houston 1

Sister Torres Sister Hammar Missouri City

Sister Tuckett Sister Hammeren Brazos

Elder Wilkinson Elder Nguyen Braeburn 2

Elder Danklef Elder Adams Kemah


Monday, November 2, 2009

uno mas...

Familia! 10-27-09



Les Deseo Lo Mejor. Espero que estemos buenisimo ahorrita! What has been going on in your wonderful lives- please tell marian again I loved the halloween picture. I hope you are enjoying candy corn and pumpkins for me.



This is the last tuesday so there is much much to prepare for. First the plan grande: I leave on Tuesday November 3rd- My flight is Delta, leaves at 10:17 am, straight to Houston, I will arrive at 2:21 pm. In this case- I leave the MTC at 6:00 am for the airport. I should have time between the time I arrive at the airport and check in to CALL YOU! So here is the plan- between 8:30 or so and 10:00 I will call calling card but we need to call on dad's phone probably, no? Will you send me that number so we can conference it. I will let you know if I can call again when I land for security.



I have everything I need, my bags are not over weight but mother I am FREEZING, I only have that one black long sleeve coat we bought so I have a request: with slips, my tan/yellow scarf, red scarf and the Old navy long black/white coat- can you send that to me before this weekend? I won't have time to buy a long coat there and they told me I need it and again...I am cold. I can wear it on the plane so it won't affect the weight. Thank you and I love you. Scarves: in the winter clothes box in my room and in the big closet box is my coat.



The time has come. I have worked really hard to learn the things the Lord wants me to learn, He has taught and blessed me more than I could ever imagine. We have had a progressive convert in the RC (referral center) His name is Mark Baker from Missouri- I had called him to confirm a DVD we sent him and we began talking and he was interested to hear more. He works 24 hr shifts and I always on call so missionary time is hard to find but this week he is going to have to find it. He has listened to the Prophet and LDS. org and is reading the intro to the BOM. He is truly one of Heavenly Father's elect. to be continued.... ( oh he did ask if he converted could he have more than one wife...original joke no?)



A diligent understanding I have wanted lately is understanding the Lord's plan and How the spirit works. If we truly understand that His work is "to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man" Every action has a purpose...Every person I meet, The Lord as been striving according to their hearts and desires to prepare them, to bring them back to Him. Every time a family moves to a different area, a plane is delayed and two people sit and talk about the Gospel while waiting, To the Lord "all things are spiritual" Along with this, I have learned only another fraction of a percentage of how much the Lord loves every single one of us and every person I meet. Nothing happens by chance when on the Lord's errand. Do you want to know what pure religion is? James 1:27 " Pure religion and undefiled before God and the FAther is this, to visit the fatherless and widows in their afflictiona and to keep himself unspotted from the world." Charity for others is the purest form of religion, we are more than conquerors in charity (romanos 8:35-39) This has changed my view of the Woman at the Well- The Lord says to the woman " whosover drinketh of this water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be i him a well of wter springing up into everlasting life." What is the purpose of a well? To give live to around them with that need: if we are to become that well of life, it is not for the sake of only us but for others, when we are a part of that well of everlasting life our purpose is to share it with others. Let them know the happiness that they can have in their life.



I have so many scriptures running through my head but this is the last one I can share because I don't have time. 1 Corintios 9:24 " Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? so run, that ye may obtain." This is for the brea and spencer mostly- fiind out what you are running for in this life...



I love you all so much. Thank you I will talk to you soon!



Hermana Tuckett

yay for letters!!




Hola familia!

Estoy muy animado por la nieve a venir! I love autumn this is great. Marian I dont' have time to write a little letter in the mail this week but next. It has been a busy p-day because I schedule two appts for our comanionship to keep on studying and learning.

Dad thanks for the advice it is exactly right. Also, read Dallin H. Oaks address to BYU-Idaho about two weeks ago- it's in the church news about our Government, it is very much worth reading and it hit the newstands well.

I'm happy to hear about T.J. possibly going to Courage Reins if there was one thing I wish I would have done before I left it would have been doing more with those horses...I'm sorry dad.

This is my second to last time I'll write you from the MTC- next week i'll write on tuesday but i need to have everything done and ready by next thursday to go. I also will be able to call once at every standy by ( stops) I think that is the english word and let you know I'm safe. I will recieve my flight plan this thursday and will know when I can call. Exciting no?

I am working hard to learn as much as I can before I leave- It's funny because they assign us here for 9 weeks to learn the language- 6 more than regular but when here the instruction is correctly given to " focus on the Gospel and the language will come" so really we just have more time to study the Gospel but still try and learn a language it is incredible. The days go by fast because we work to spend every minute effectively. I have learned a great lesson in patience in learning that the Lord promises in D.C. 1:28 " and inasmuch as they were humble they might be made strong, and blessed form on hih, and receive knowledge from time to time." Knowledge is only time to time, we cannot except to recieve the knowledge we want and obey with the intent to then recieve that knowledge. We are obedient soley for its sake. To err is human, to forgive is divine- That is what is amazing about The Atonement. Every night I pray and tell the Lord I did my best to my knowledge, please help me tomorrow to build upon it.

The only thing that is constant in our lives is seeking the spirit. Bednar said "Do you really think the Lord could depend on our limited capacities?" We must have trust in his plan for us. My focus has been teaching with simplicity. Preach My Gospel teaches us that we should have "simplicity, dignity and humility" in all of our speech. It is pretty is when learning a language honestly but the concepts must relay the importance of the Gospel to the investigators lives.

A little side note- I love the thought "if you have three friends you are doing pretty well for yourself" tell me what you think...

Well family we are sprinting toward the end here at the MTC. I love the autumn weather and I am missing you much. I pray for you every night. I pray that we may all know a little more about How the Lord works and how the Spirit works in our lives and others. There is no such thing as blundering optimism but faith unwavering in our Lord. Things may pass away but the Lord's word will not pass away.

I have a funny story but i'll write it in Sam's letter because i'm almost out of e-mail time. Sorry for my grammar...it is terrible- I hope I can excel in my classes after the mission I'll need the Lord's help for sure. Tell Aunt Nan thank you for the Love and support she wrote me. Mother I will need slips and my scarves in that box before I leave- I won't go over my limit I promise and will send unneeded things home. Maybe another sweater too please for underneath a coat....Thank You. :)

I'm working as hard as I can that I may be a tool in the Lord's hands and bring some soul unto Him just as the Sons of Mosiah, Ammon and Amulek.

Love you,
Hermana Tuckett

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Hola Familia Amoroso

Hello my loving family!

Isn't Autumn wonderful? I love this weather enjoy it for me-
Mother you are going to laugh at me and be frustrated at the same time, I realized I forgot to put the size on there and wrote it on the back of Bryan Wright's letter and told him to call you and tell you and you would know what it means... :) sorry but i was desperate sorry i couldn't tell you sooner- just sports bras no underwire nothing fancy. Please also send some scarves-yellow, cream and a patterned one so that I may stay a little warmer- thanks so much. I love you!

After this I will only have two more times to write you until I'm in Texas- very exciting. Mother Thank you for your thoughts- yes it is a relentless work and there will be much rejection, again If it was hard for Christ you can guarantee it will be hard for us but we are asked to take up our cross and follow him. I think of Ammon in Alma 26: 27-28, read what they felt when serving- and they served for 14 years! I also think of the disciples in Christ's time, the Lord reminds us in Matt 10:35-38 that this work is not easy but if we follow him we shall find our lives. read please!

"I'm not afraid of storms, for I'm learning to sail my ship." - Louisa May Alcott

This week has been a refing of my teaching- the focus around the Restauration, to be able to leave a home with them assuredly knowing that our testimonies are of restored truths found in no other church with the authority from God to recieve modern-day revelation and proper ordinance work. Teaching is an amazing skill and I have so much to work on. It will be different out in the field. The elements of what I'm teaching must become a part of me and I want to know how it feels to give absolutely everything. I read and know the fine print of my mission : prepared to give our life to help men, women and children keep theirs.

Thought of the Week: "Don't indulge in judgment" I love the way this is phrase becuase no one wants to indulge and indulgement is an unneccessary and generally harmful action to oneself- I love the parable of Christ in Mark 10:17-21 the rich young man says " all these things have I observed from my youth" as Christ has finished telling him what he must do to follow him. Then in the next verse 21- the first thing Christ does "Then Jesus beholding him..loved him..." To every person we meet we must first love them "one thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me."

I will be praying for you much! As I have been praying I found comfort in the Lord's words to Thomas B. Marsh D.C. 31:1-4 " i will bless you and your family, yea, your little ones.. lift up your heart and rejoice." We are blessed because of our faith in this work.

How is everyone? I want to hear details... Dad- I made a pb and honey toast for mi Companeras this week in memory of you- I was thinking about all the wonderful things you have done with building the tree houses and the zip line and realized there is greater satisfaction in working, laughing, and progressing in the experience of being with you then the luxury of using it. The memories and experiences are priceless.

Mother how are classes? what are the kids going to be for Halloween..don't be hesitant is sharing things with me, it is not hard to hear everything that is going on. We are working really hard right now since we are limited on time- during gym I run about 2.5 to 3 miles while studying a scripture to memorize in spanish- we memorize 3 scriptures a week pertaining to our lessons and 140 vocab words, 20 a day. Our language study consists of four hours of spiritual and grammatical study and we teach 2 lessons a day to teacher in the "TC". These are our goals for our companionship. The rest of the day we are in classes for about 4 hours or so... During meals we memorize our vocab and go over tenses- it is a lot of good work and I've been thinking I'd love to just work along side an investigator in their field or help them with something then just know on their door. I want some more manual labor honestly. I'm So grateful for the pioneers who helped establish this restauration. Dad, I need to learn how to ask more inspired intelligent questions, any advice?

Is there anything else I should be writing about? I'm so grateful for all of you and i"m working hard to do my part since i'm n0t on the forefront with you...I do miss you terribly and you are always in my prayers. Tell brother Bybee I am working really really hard to be a servant of the Lord I'm so incredibly grateful for them. We have a really good companionship that we work to be united in the work.

Love you so much talk to you next week!!!

Hermana Tuckett

yet another letter

How is the family? Anything happen on saturday? I was praying fervently and I didn't know why and I'm concerned, what is going on? Remember you are in my prayers.

This week was fantastic as usual I have nothing bad to say, we keep on moving forward in the Lord's work. Wasn't General Conference amazing! I especially want the family to watch Elder Bednar's from Saturday and Hollands from Sunday.... and Nelso from Sunday :) if they didn't or fell asleep. Hollands was incredible. Dad for you, I thought about Christoffersons- I can't remember what day it was but please check it out- it is about our country, very good. Mom, Dad and family, I'm so grateful to be here, not everyone gets this opportunity and I'm so grateful for all of you and the bybees. This is amazing to be a part of the Lord's work and share the Gospel.

Mom I thought of you this week- Starting these classes you need courage. After 8 years in the desert Nefi and his families come to Bountiful a Land with all they need but then Nefi is asked to build a boat and sail the ocean, what kind of courage does it take for this? I've realized Nefi was kind of a clueless amazing man- "i was guided by the spirit not know beforehand what I should do", I do not know the meaning of all things but that the Lord loves his children- I don't know why I write these things but it is wisdom in the Lord- this is all paraphrased of course but what faith he had with no previous knowledge of what was to come. His ability to provide for his family in the wilderness when his bow broke. I see you as my Nefi- you have so much courage and strength raising children facing this miraculous life and starting classes. You will always be in my prayers.

I loved a part of a talk, i can't remember who it was but i'll get back to you on that- about God. Why should we believe in God? Because without God life would end at the grave, progression would be temporary, and challenges would have no meaning but we learn in John 17:3 "And this is life eternal" that thou shalt know God- I hope we can all strive to develop that personal relationship with God- When I am having a hard time here the Lord carries me, I know it- I completely rely on him for everything and I am continually praying for the deepest humility as a Servant and Representative. I know the Book of Mormon contains the truthfulness that answers all of our questions in this life. It is the stumbling block of all who challenge it. Just as Holland said- why would Hyrum and Joseph die for a fake book? Why would thousands cross the plains. The Book of Mormon is the keystone for us and we must read everyday. Please do...

Did brea and Josh and Marian get my cards? how are they and school? How are classes mom?

Very important: Sister Stapleton (the wonderful sister from Australia of Ray and Diane) is wondering if they are headed back to Australia soon. She is leaving and needs to send a package to Aus. but it will cost her $70.00 and was wondering if she could instead send it to their house and they could take the stuff with them. But she doesn't want them to spend the money either to send it there. Me explico? Please dear elder soon so I can help- Please tell sis blalock I'm so grateful for her letters- I loved hearing about conference and I do sing in the Choir not well but I do- Braydon is a solid young man and is doing well- I told him if he needed anything we can get it for him, a home away from home.

MARIAN CALEB SPENCER BREANA JOSH I LOVE YOU....AND CASEY!

Mother, I'm sorry I ask for things- but it is getting cold, i don't want a big coat but i need some scarves- mine are in the box entitled dresser and winter- i have gloves just need the yellow/tan scarf and the white one and for fun any other light colorful ones you might want to send. Also if we have some family history stories I would really like them. any news on the patriarchal blessing? Thank you again and again...if you don't have time that is fine.

We are teaching four times a day right now, the ability to relate and read the face of the investigator is coming also the ability to "toca puertas" or knock doors, it is difficult to knock a door and tell them in a small amount of time about their salvation and why we should come into the security of their home but the Lord has blessed us. My companions are well we are like the girls on little women actually. Brea I hope you are eating pumpkins. Our District is the best- we are called the brady bunch be/c we all get along so well i guess, we have a great calling ahead of us, lots of our friends are starting to leave but we are maintaining focus b/c we still have so much to prepare for.

I want to share a story every time of our family this weeks is about the fall! I remember when we rode in the back of the truck about 9 yrs old to hike and look at leaves not even spencer was born yet! I remember josh fitting into the gigantic pumpking and also being clotheslined by an unmarked string at a pumpking patch- I remember dad walking through EVERY row of a patch to find the "perfect" pumpkin and I would point out one that would suffice- I remember running across the street in my cleopatra costume in the provo house and falling on my face when the skirt was too long. Good times!

The Lord is with us- Look unto me in every thought, doubt not fear not. In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy path.

Love you so much,

Hermana Tuckett

Sunday, October 4, 2009

Another Letter!!

Well family I hope you recieved my last letter in the mail!

Sorry again for not getting to the e-mail, even our prep days stay busy.
How was down south? and the birthdays? Thank you for the package SO much, that was so nice to have. This week was another wonderful week as always, as of tomorrow I am now off the doctor's orders to go running for my physical well being and my individual sanity of needing to be outside. i did precede to infect four others in my district, it's too bad we have to stay attached at the hip right.

I wrote a letter to marian make sure she gets it please. Again thank you for all the support and love. I'm over half way done and can't do enough in the days here. Spanish is coming well and we are only teaching in spanish now. Spanich is a language you feel so it's just going to come when it wants to. I just need to focus on learning the scriptures. Eric made it safely to CA last week and it was so nice to be here with him. I've also seen Elder Blalock, he seems to be doing well I'll make sure if he needs anything he can let me know next time i see him. Mother, Sis Blalock wrote me, please let her know how grateful I am to have it and that I am doing fantastic. She is so kind.

Mom and Dad- share experiences with the kids where the scriptures have answered your prayers- I have found that the scriptures can answer any questions you have. I love reading and I have this insatiable desire that just keeps on going to learn more. Here more than ever I need to be accountable with the Lord of the things I have done in a day, it is his time not mine. We seem to see ourselves for yesterday and today- God sees us for forever. Christ knows us for our potential. Latest quotes from Hermana Steadman during our lessons with "investigators"

"Don't worry, Everyone looks like somebody's mother"

"Do you remember your dead brother." ( to a missionary posing with a brother that passed away of course)

You might find some humor out of these but I just wish you were there. Steadman is a head in the clouds, whispy hermana and Stoker reminds me of a Disney princess- that's about all i can say about my wonderful companeras, we are having a blast. Dad, I heard Sam is ready to run a mtn again- don't take it easy on him he can do it.

The company of the spirit is based on our motives. Every person I meet I have the desire to bring them to know Christ a little bit better and that can be through anything good. How is school for everyone? What are the Halloween costume ideas? I love Halloween- well fall...

I sadly found out the scrambled eggs were made from powdered eggs (gross!) here so it has limited my breakfasts to cold cereal and hard boiled eggs...

There is not much to report from this last week except that I am alive and still loving it. I want to learn more about funny things during the week or what you are doing. Oh! I heard from fredy and holly so don't worry. Thank you for everything you are doing and your prayers. I'm so grateful for you. I Love you all!

Hermana Tuckett

Saturday, September 19, 2009

First Letter

Hola Familia!

I am so happy. It took me three days to transition into missionary status as I have told some of you before; I imagined my phone vibrating a couple times, I'm still not used to nylons and I am getting used to being with someone ALL THE TIME. My english is suffering but for a good cause so please excuse the grammar. First things first, I need flip flops and a robe for showers. Mother...I have a confession, i did not bring the slips you wanted me to wear and they are under my bed, if you would like to send them out of spite i understand and I am ashamed :) love you. As I said the first three days they keep you so busy, probably so some elders won't have to time to think about what they are doing ;) Being here is a higher plane of though and activity. This is the Lord's time now, former things are put on pause. I must glorify my mission, this is the last September 9th 2009 I will ever have! I can't believe is has already been a week. The Lord must break you down in order to build you back up in to the person he needs you to be. The first thing I realized is that I am here solely to learn for the Lord's investigators. I feel I will come to genuinely learn the propensity of being a missionary for our Lord. I have his name right underneath mine on my badge, I am representing him and speaking for him. The convictions of the Sons of Mosiah are a perfect example I look up to. Josh I forgot the maestros names you wanted me to recordar...They pack you so full with information everything left me, I couldn't remember what Idid before the MTC. I can't believe it's been a week already... I had to buy a watch because I didn't have my phone anymore.

We wake up promptly at 6:30 and sleep at 10:30. Obedience is key, My P.O. box is 130 and my departure date is November 3rd. The Lord has literally quickened my mind and ability to retain, I know what if feels like to have the Armor of Dios. I can already see my compaƱera trying to pull me from my room in Texas because I won´t want to leave. I have the opportunity to spend 12 hours a day studying the Gospel. I will say it would be nice if everyone would just study horseback, I think it would be beneficial. Please let everyone know I do want to write but don´t have a ton of time but that I love them. I am the happiest girl in the world, it is so nice being around many people striving for the same purpose in the service of God. Si se puede! You´ll be amazed how many ways I found to sit in a chair in a dress.. we spend a lot of time in a room studying. My Prep day is tuesday, hoy. On Sunday we had movie night! now showing: Teaching Skills starring Elder Holland!

The technique of teaching the Gospel is remarkable much more organized then when Dad probably went...We are teaching the person not the lesson. I had a wonderful conversation with Kevin Williamson a black man from Chicago with the best accent, we spoke for twenty minutes with the reward of some answered questions and the desire for the Book of Mormon and Missionaries to come to his him. He also wants another call later this week from me ( and my compaƱera) it is mandatory. Anything in particular you want to know about? The Gospel is true! that is all I can say...I am learning so much and I realized I don't know a ton about the Gospel. Tell Aunt Diane and Uncle Ray that I met Sister Stapleton, She found me because I didn't know where to start...She is an amazing person with a lot of personality, she sends her love and gratitude to them.

Please send this to Alexes as well and the michie family (thmichie@yahoo.com) with any unnecessary information omitted. Gracias Madre. Call for lexes I don't have it by the computer. The language is coming, I am beginning to think in spanish and the fourth week i will only speak spanish. My whole distrito is gringos so we are all starting from scratch.

Marian:

I love you baby so much! I hope school is going well. How are bess and Jack? I hope you are playing with them a lot for me. Let me know what you have been doing. Loves

Brea--
I was one sad puppy when I went in for dinner the first time in the mtc, they were serving rabbit iceberg lettuce with fake breaded chicken, I want spiinach but then the Lord answered my prayers and they have a wrap and salad bar. The other food is grotesque. How are classes and the running? We get 50 mins to exercise so it's nice. I hope you are happy. I love you baby so much

Spencer!
How is the bike? and school? I only have three mins so i ahve to run love you much

Josh and Casey-

I've been thinking about you I love you both? How are classes and provo? I'm so close but off the radar-- bring me cafe rio or something ha ha

Ciao ciao

Love you all, thank you for your support

Hermana Tucket

Thursday, September 17, 2009

LETTER!

Here is one of the first e-mails Jess has sent home... I know it's not her very first one but I myself haven't even had the pleasure of reading it. but as soon as I do, I will be sure to post it :)

Hola Familia y Amigos!

Esta es el segundo pasado en el mtc! only 7 more weeks to go! I have to write fast because they only give me 30 mins so here it goes. First- Mother can you update me on my account and if you need to use money let me know so that I can keep an accurate accounting of coming and going. Use for good purposes. For breana's birthday i want her to buy a new shirt and an accesory/jewelry etc. to wear- please fund from my account. Love you much. Thank you for the fast delivery of robe and flip flops, I'm so grateful for you. Eric is doing fantastic, he is a zone leader and rightfully so. You are a great support group. Mother also can you crop the unessential things and send an update to info@rockymtnoutfitters.com and that I hope all is well. Thank you,. Mother I also found Matt 16: 1-2 please read it reminded me of you, you'll know why. For the boys- have spencer read Alma 60:7-- this scripture was found on a bathroom wall....you will see why. Why do they wear knee pads in the book of mormon? Because of all the "kneefights". I day a week is not enough for writing but effectively so because we are still working on things even on our p-days. Mother some granola or that emerald city stuff would be great to have thank you :) And as a request I have no good smelling lotions. I didn't know I had this infatuation with lotion can you send some please. Oh! and find out Julie moss's new address: 735-1400 and Alexes's please.

Now, How is the family? every single one I want a little update on. you can e-mail and anyone else can as well on jaetuck@ldsmail.com. I just won't get it till tuesday instead of every day like dear elder. How was homecoming? I love the mountains right now perfect for riding, I'm glad you are working with Nole dad, I rode with him some as well he is good just pricey.

Now to the work: I'm weak but the Lord makes me strong. I completely rely on him. They placed me in an intermediate spanish class which is good and we are teaching our first lesson in spanish this week. I have another companion Herman Stoker from woodbridge virginia! She is wonderful and Hermana Steadman from South Jordan is still kicking. The dynamics of a trio are different, we couldn't imagine the work without stoker though, it was all meant to be. I can't tell you how many times we visit the bathroom everyday though, three women all working as one is a big commitment but they are literally my other 2/3 we work really well together. Teaching skills are difficult to learn, only through experience, it is different then teaching a class. You have to find their crutch, or desire, be extremely in tune with the spirit and still testify and be aware of what you are saying, for those who don't see the importance you have to help them realize the purpose of life. All of these things are exceptional skills. I am working to do everything in my power and expect nothing. It is not often that we do that in life but that is where we recieve the most satisfaction. I will work as hard as I can to help other come unto christ but I can influence agency but never override it.

Kevin committed to read the Book of Mormon, we will be talking with him tomorrow. I spoke with a Lady name Judy Vogel, i wrote the story in sam's letter, he will tell you about it, it was a learning experience for me. Some have related the MTC to a infectious wound or Liberty Jail....now let me explain first, these were not my thoughts but like liberty because of the great trials and spiritual strength that was gained. Many have said Joseph was not the same when he came home from Liberty. And a wound (gross) because the Lord purifies you so that you can heal into a pure representative and be more in tune with the spirit. It is about discipline here and if you don't have the desire or the humility it is hard to go about the expectations.

Mother with the food I am surviving they have a wrap and salad bar but the rest I won't touch...have i always been so picky?

I am sending some pictures home with brea's letter of our district and my face. Oh my face! we have 50 mins for gym and I usually run but I recently started playing v-ball. The elders invited me to play with them after a session and I love it! but almost every week someone is put on crutches, that is our luck so far and i can't afford to have my release date put back. It is pretty intense...but i'm addicted! I was diving for a ball and a peruvian came down on top of me and gave me a good bloody nose and some good bruises. Once my vision cleared I was good to play though so no broken bones...I though of you dad.

I love you all so much! You are so special to me and i wish I had more time to tell you about what we are teaching. We get to go to the temple every week and study and teach the rest of our lives away. I am ready to go to Texas but I can spend many months still working on the language. My fourth week here will solely be in spanish, wish me luck. My relationship with Christ is stronger and I am learning so much about him. I still wish I could study on a horse or something but this will do. There is no greater call and each one of us is here for a reason. I pray for the people in Houston everynight.

Love you so much, let me know if I forgot anything, All is well.

Hermana Tuckett

Sunday, September 6, 2009

Hello There!

Hi everyone!

My name is Alexes and I've decided to make a blogg that will follow Jess as she serves in her mission! I figured this would be a good way to keep up with her and it's also fun for people to see what she has been up to.

I sent her a letter yesterday so I should be hearing back from her relatively soon and I will post anything I get from her on here. If anyone else gets something from her and wants it to be posted, feel free to e-mail me at alexesmartinez@aol.com

Thanks!