The Washington Tacoma Mission-- Deschutes River

My second area was located in the most rural place I had ever lived up to date, Yelm, Washington. I served in Yelm from October 2013-December 2013 (2 transfers. It was FAR too short of a time because these were two of my favorite transfers. I. Love. Yelm. I always feel such a special spirit there, and love the rolling hills, the endless fields, the sunsets, and the people. 

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“Every form of happiness is private. Our greatest moments are personal, self-motivated, not to be touched” –Ayn Rand

I know that one of the reasons I came on my mission was specifically to serve in Deschutes River. When I arrived in Yelm with Sister Tanner, miracles had been prepared for us. Within the first week, we were teaching the Green family, who represent to me that the gospel blesses families. It was also here in Deschutes that I learned a lot about reality vs. perfectionism. For those of you that know me well, I am a bit of a stresser. So, naturally, doubling-into an area with a new missionary produced a lot of anxiety. As I worked through this personal challenge, I learned some important lessons: Heavenly Father did NOT expect me to be perfect. What was required of me was to be obedient to what I knew was right, to be doing the small and the simple things with real intent. If we are stressed, it is probably because we are not including the Lord enough in His work. Stress does NOT mean success! The work that we are engaged in is truly God’s work, and He is in charge. We are to prayerfully seek His guidance every step of the way, doing our very best to live like Christ, and He will make up the difference. I left Deschutes River with a sure testimony that Heavenly Father was solicitous for my happiness and success, and that He had a plan for me.

At this point in my mission, I was apparently fascinated by taking pictures of myself with the scenery :D Those end here.

If you would like to learn more about what full-time missionaries do, please visit this link to learn all about LDS missionaries.

If you are a young woman reading this and are wondering if you should serve a full-time mission, visit this link and PLEASE contact me (see About/Contact Me). I would love to talk with you!