Sister Nicole Skousen: 4th of July!

Hey Family! How is everyone doing this week? It was a pretty good one here. What did you all do for the fourth of July? It was a no proselyting day for us. We started the morning out at a ward breakfast. Our investigator Kristen came to that! It was so fun. Then we went over to a members house, and I got to sit and play the piano and sing for like 3 hours. It was the best thing ever! It really made me miss family band time with everyone - John, Amanda, Siera, Grandma, Dad, Uncle Scott, Brandon and Samantha... Family band is the best. Anyways, we just hopped around to a couple members homes, played games, and just had lots of fun. We played volleyball and soccer, and I was even persuaded to do some tumbling on the grass... turns out I can still do my standing back tuck! And I didn't die doing it. yayyyy.

Also, I've mentioned there are lots of menonnites here, and these horse and buggy signs everywhere. I saw a carriage the other day and had to take a picture.

Kristen's boyfriend Jeremy was insistent upon meeting with the elders as opposed to us. So we all went golfing at this free course in Bridgewater as per Jeremy's request. He wanted to talk in a less formal setting.... it was 110 degrees, humid as heck, we had no water and we were in skirts. We all just carried a few clubs and walked around 9 holes. I wanted to die.... but Pop you'd be proud of me, I golfed pretty well! I don't remember being that good... but I was kinda impressed with myself. So there you have it. If anything, the mission makes you a better soccer player slash golfer. :) Just kidding... kinda.

Other than that, we have just been very busy getting the musical fireside together. We are hitting it hard, because we really want members to bring friends and get some referrals, and people to teach. Music is a great way to teach and help others feel the spirit. We are so excited for it.

We started a mission prep class here and had our first one yesterday. It was so good. We also had our first transfer calls yesterday.... and that was so nerve racking! Sister Wride and I are staying in Harrisonburg though. You should all look her up and see her mormon.org profile - just search Alexandra Wride! That will help you get to know my companion. Most everyone has a profile, so you can search them. I'm still working on mine, and it should be up this week. It's actually a really great way to share the gospel, I encourage everyone at home to make one. Let me know when you do so I can see it :)

We got a call sunday morning from the EQ Pres asking us to teach Priesthood that day... it was on missionary work so I guess that's why he asked us to do it. It went really well, and was probably one of the best lessons I've ever been able to teach. The spirit was so strong. I seriously just love teaching in any way shape or form. It's the best!

Most of you probably know this, but as missionaries and representatives of the Savior, we can make powerful promises in His name, and they happen. It's an incredible, sacred privilege. I have been trying hard to have the faith to make such a powerful promise to someone, and to know what to promise etc. This week I had the chance to do that. There is such power in the name of Jesus Christ, and promising blessings in his name is amazing - because they really happen. You feel the spirit so strong when you do, I wish I could explain better, some of you know what I'm talking about. It's so cool.

This is a wonderful work. It's His work and our work - that includes all of you. Don't be afraid to share the gospel, because it's the most important thing we have. Joseph Smith said that after everything that has been done, sharing the gospel is the most important duty we have. MOST IMPORTANT! Don't forget it. I love you all. Thanks for all your letters, prayers, support and love.

Sister Skousen