La Sorella in Italia: Week 5!

Caro Famiglia,

This past Sunday we had a Stake Conference with Elder Donaldson, the area 70, in Alessandria. I didn't understand all of it because it was in Italian, but when Elder Donaldson spoke, it was in English with an interpreter which was a really interesting experience to hear it in both languages. But he spoke about how God knows the end from the beginning. He used the story of Joseph Smith Sr. that he had three crops fail in a row, but because of that their family moved to Palmyra. We had an experience that fits this perfectly. Hopefully I'm be able to explain it well. We found a woman on the street a few weeks ago who was interested and had a friend in our ward. We taught her a lesson a few days later but have been unable to contact her since. But we knew the name of her friend, Gladys, and tried calling her with no response. Last Sunday after Stake Conference we had some time and decided to pass by Gladys house for a quick visit and spiritual message. It turned out to be perfect timing because she and her husband had just arrived home and had planned to leave in a few minutes. We shared our message and partway through Gladys mentioned that her husband wasn't a member, but he had been to the conference that morning and had some sincere questions which we were happy to answer. We have a return appointment for tomorrow. Gladys has set up appointments with the missionaries before, but he was never really interested. The difference this time was that we initiated contact, something the missionaries had never done before, and on a day when he already had questions. It was a testament to me that this is God's work and He's guiding us every step of the way. We didn't know when we contacted that lady on the street that because of her we would show up on the doorstep of a partmember family several weeks later when they needed it, but God did. I think of all the experiences in my life that lead me to where I was here today and am so grateful. Especially for all the times of trial and hardship because with out them, I'm not sure I'd be here today. And I know that this is where I"m supposed to be right now. I gain a witness of that every single day.

I love the gospel with all my heart. I feel so blessed to be able to spend every day sharing this message. Thanks for all the support. Vi voglio tantissimo bene!

Recognize this first photo? Today we spent a couple hours in Cinque Terre! It was crazy to think I had been there almost three years ago and with a completely different perspective. But it was fun to be back.