Lot's of Practice Lessons...and a giant fart

2/17-23
Monday was a pretty lame PDAY looking back. Not sure what Sister Bagley and I accomplished but somehow we had a blast!! Speaking of which I don't think I have properly introduced her... Her name is CaLea (pronounced KuLee) Bagley from American Fork, Utah. She is 19. She loves soccer, photography, and her huge family (parents and nine kids). Also she has a boyfriend (maybe not an official title but anyway) serving in Norway. I love her and we have come to find out that maybe we have lived the same life, but in different states haha. We have become fast friends and we both tell each other at least ten times a day how happy and grateful we are to be companions with the other.

This morning we were able to go on a run and guess what? The winter is FINALLY on its way out! We were both surprised and grateful for how warm it is nowadays (okay maybe warm is the wrong word, because it is still cold but anyway, warmer).Today we were on a search for thrift shops but failed. When PDAY time ended we headed to the church to first teach 최재인S (Jane) the first lesson- The Restoration of Jesus Christ's Gospel, then stayed for the ward FHE (Family Home Evening). The lesson was so much fun. I love teaching kids, because it is so much easier to have a back and forth discussion. This little girl is crazy smart too! After the lesson we met in the chapel for FHE. A member planned some games and then we had snacks after. It was pretty standard, but there was definitely had an Asian twist which is always fun haha.

Tuesday was so busy!! In companionship study we planned messages for the two appointments we had but out of nowhere two more lessons crept into our schedule. I love being busy but dang we really got a run for our money today! First we hopped on a bus to find a less-active member of our ward. When I was texting her, I thought she said she was working and that it was okay for us to stop by anytime... When we showed up it just so happened that the convenient store where she works is called AnyTime. So by telling us that visits were okay at AnyTime, she didn't mean any time- see how things can be a little confusing? Hehe Sister Bagley and I got a good laugh, bless our hearts. It wasn't all a misunderstanding though because the member, 정혜연S (Sister Jeong) welcomed us in and sat us down. She was pretty confused as to why there wasn't a Korean missionary in our companionship, but I ended up explaining everything in a pretty round about way- my Korean is improving but I'm not sure if I'll ever learn how to be concise when I speak it haha. Again it was all on me to socialize. I'm getting pretty used to being awkward- I don't want to be but it's inevitable in missionary life. After some small talk, we shared a message, and left her with a prayer. Almost immediately after we left, we received a text from her thanking us so much for the spiritual message and visit. She invited us to come by more often :) you best believe we will.

Our next appointment was with the relief society president. We practiced teaching the first lesson. This too was a confusing experience because at first the member was answer questions as herself but half way through she started acting like an investigator. I didn't mind explaining things in more detail but she kept going back and forth so I ended up looking like an idiot asking her questions that duh she knows but maybe the 'investigator' she was playing didn't. It was weird but good practice with being comfortable in awkward situations haha.

Our next appointment was with a potential investigator (김현아S (Sister Kim). She is the elder's, investigator's, sister. She will be moving somewhere in the Daejeon mission in a couple weeks so we only have this week and next to teach her. I was worried that she was only English interested but all went well and I have a good feeling about her. Maybe the missionaries in Daejeon will be able to baptize her soon.

The next appointment was with a member but it fell through so instead Sister Bagley and I went to meet up with the 연수 (YeonSu) sister missionaries. It was time for another exchange! That even ended with 황예림S (Sister Hwang) and I making English flyers and talking to people in the street. It wasn't the most eventful evening but it was fun.

Wednesday was an okay day. I tried my best to only speak to Sister Hwang in Korean but it was crazy hard! I'm bad at small talk as it is, can you imagine what happens with a limited Korean vocabulary? It was tough. After our studies we set out to visit some less-active members. The last ward I served in had over 800 less-active members but this ward has only about 50. That is still a lot of people but I feel like this is a little more manageable. Anyway, we had some success but were only able to share messages at the door. It was so much easier to communicate with a native Korean there! I liked it but it made me appreciate my current companionship even more. Sister Bagley and I have to rely a lot more on each other and The Lord for not only language help but for everything. It was a good eye opener and a much appreciated lesson that I needed to learn.

By 4PM we met at a cafe to switch back. After drinking some delicious hot chocolate Sister Bagley and I were on our way to a members house for a lesson. We met 김미란S (Sister Kim) and her daughter for a short 30 minute lesson. We taught them the first lesson about the restoration of the gospel. It went really well! After teaching this to members for two weeks now, I think Sister Bagley and I are finally confident enough to start teaching investigators! When we finished we said our goodbyes and were on our way to 김정은S (Sister Kim)'s house for a lesson and dinner with her family. This is the woman who I visited with Sister Wing last week. Her kids warmed up a little bit but still it was like pulling teeth and looking like an idiot to make them crack a smile. Dinner was yummy and the lesson went well. We taught it to her whole family (husband- return missionary and three kids). Again, we taught the restoration and it went well. I think the climax was when I finished reciting Joseph Smith's experience of the first vision and the second youngest daughter felt the power of the account so strongly that she couldn't control herself and just let a giant fart rip haha. It was gross, the parents were embarrassed but Sister Bagley and I couldn't help but laugh, it was pretty funny. When we finished we head home for the night.

Thursday was a good day. We had our first meeting with our investigator, 김현아S (Sister Kim). She is 21, 19 international age and the sister of Elders Berry and Higham's investigator. Maybe she is quiet but I think she has a lot of potential. The lesson went well and we found out that she went to a Christian high school so she already has a solid foundation of the Bible, God, and Jesus Christ. Although the lesson was mostly awkward, both Sister Bagley and I felt that maybe it was the right time to extend a baptismal invitation. Just as Sister Bagley was about to, her brother came in and started making all kinds of noise. The spirit wasn't gone but it was definitely disrupted. Maybe next time we will have a better setting.

Our next appointment cancelled so instead we were on our way to visit a less-active family (well only the two daughters are members). When we arrived the mother came to the door and told us that her daughter didn't have any time. My Korean flowed pretty well as I spoke and I was also able to understand what she was saying. She had a smile on her face when trying to imply she didn't want us back but I replied with a huge smile and said we would be back next week haha. Hopefully we'll be able to soften her heart.

To end the evening we had another dinner and lesson with 이두례S (Sister Lee). It was an excellent visit. For the first time Sister Bagley and I practiced teaching the second lesson about the Plan of Salvation. It wasn't as awful as I thought it might be since it was the first practice. Even the member was impressed and told us she can tell that we are learning. Booyah! On our way out she gave us A BUNCH of kimchee!! Her husband (a non-member) came home in the process and even he was asking why she was giving away so much haha. Our members treat us so well!

Friday was strange. Instead of our normal schedule we had a zone conference. Normally these meetings are spiritually uplifting and awesome but for some reason this meeting was different. I didn't get a lot out of it and I was feeling pretty strange. I still can't put my finger on it but all in all I was disappointed that 7 hours was dedicated to this meeting and I hardly got anything from it.

On our way home, the first appointment we had cancelled and the last appointment asked us to come early. It's funny how things work out. We ate a delicious dinner with 유경숙S (Sister You) and her husband 백용실S (Brother Beck) first. After we spent 30 minutes teaching Sister You English and then another 30 minutes teaching a practice lesson. Since it was Friday night the couple seemed to be in a rush so we fell back on our Restoration lesson plans. It went well and they loved it.

On the way home I thought I could lead us by foot. Welp, that was a fail. Eventually I gave up when Sister Bagley offered to just pay for a taxi... It turned out to be a good thing because we had an awesome opportunity to teach the taxi diver a lesson! We received his number and asked permission to refer him to the elders. He said yes and thanked us for our time- booyah!

Saturday was a strange day. Nothing went as planned. After Sister Bagley and I left the house we decided it would be a good idea to visit the grandma that we met on the street last Sunday. We made her a cute collection of chocolates and knocked on her door. She quickly ushered us in and brought fruit and orange juice out for us to enjoy. It was so nice. We tried just getting to know her but her old grandma voice was so hard to understand. Eventually she asked me to write down a few things, I'm not sure why but I wrote (in Korean) I am Sister Sloan. I am a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. And we love you grandma. When I finished, she put on her glasses and started reading out loud... When she got to the last line her face lit up and she looked at us with a huge smile and repeated "Thank you, thank you!" in English. It was adorable. We tried to share a short message before we left but her Methodist roots came out and wouldn't let us speak. Sister Bagley bore a short testimony and we were off.

Next was English class. Two new students today! It went well. A member has taken it upon himself to help us but he actually just ends up teaching. I don't love it but the students learned a lot today. After class we had a ward activity. First on the agenda, soccer! You have no idea how excited Sister Bagley was to play. We had a blast and we built major 정 (meaning a relationship of trust) with all of our students and some of their parents that came. It was awesome!

The rest of the activity kind of fell apart so they wrapped up early and all the missionaries and a few investigators went to dinner. Like I said, it was a weird day where nothing happened the way it was originally planned. Sister Bagley and I couldn't figure out what it was but something just felt wrong...

Sunday was fine. Church was solid. The members are awesome as usual. Following the last hour of church, we ate lunch as a ward before heading to the stake center for a Member-Missionary Work fireside. That meeting was good, it was so nice to see so many of the members there supporting us as missionaries and eager to do missionary work in their own lives. At the beginning of the program, all 26 full-time missionaries sang 'Called to Serve' for the stake. It was powerful. When the meeting ended we head back to our area (만수). 백용실B, his wife 유경숙S, and their daughter gave Sister Bagley and I a ride back and forth. They are literally the funniest family! It was a blast hanging out with them.

To end the night we had a missionary coordinating meeting. It was good however it took a pretty long time. Everyone, including Elder Berry, was a little restless so as a result he made a comment to me that I didn't appreciate too much... He said, "Come on Sister Sloan, learn some Korean so everything doesn't have to take so long to be translated." When we arrived home I was less than pleased. Those are my least favor comments nowadays. I know I am not here in Korea to learn Korean. I am here to spread God's love and invite His children to build strong relationships with Him. I have gotten better about not comparing myself to others but I hate when others feel the need to step in and remind me. Anyway, I wasn't happy.

To my surprise, about 20 minutes after being home, we received a phone call- it was Elder Berry. He was calling to apologize. I cannot tell you how grateful I was. Maybe this is a pointless experience to write about but I want to remember that even small apologizes about silly things makes a world of difference. Everyday I am amazed at how so many people my age are serving or preparing to serve missions. Having the opportunity to serve The Lord is this capacity is unreal! All the growing up I have done as well as missionaries like Elder Berry, really blows my mind. This church is so true!! I am so grateful for the chance I have to learn so much from my fellow missionaries. Being a missionary is awesome.

This week was great. I still love my companion and we are still extremely busy! I don't know how we will do it but we resolved to work even harder this coming week... pray for us!!
How was everyone's week? I love you all!! 사랑해요! 보고싶어요! I miss you!

사랑하는,
슬론 자매
Sister Sloan

Sunday night dinner and this wasn't even half of it.

Elder...I mean Brother Sohn

Sister Hwang and I ended our exchange with Hot Chocolate and a Smoothie

The strangest statue. It's apparently an dangerous-semi-traditional Korean game...I don't want to know.

My companion had a laugh attack/maybe mental breakdown for who knows why. #loveher #kimcheewater

Playing soccer for the ward activity

Most of our new English class students playing soccer with us!  Love them!

Our house!

Sister Training Leader

2/10-16
Monday was a fun PDAY.. mostly because our day ended up being spontaneous. First on our list of things to do was apply for Sister Bagley's foreigner card. We met up with a few other missionaries who needed to do the same thing. It was pretty smooth compared to the hours of waiting when I was with Sister Tovar. I was grateful that we only waited about 10 minutes, blessing! We decided to stay and hang out with the missionaries who we met up with- Elders Chow, Demille, Hafen, and Empey. We went to a PC room to email, then went to China Town for the day. Did you know that I am serving in the area where General Douglas MacArthur came in to help the Korean people after they were invaded by Japan? Pretty cool. We looked over the Incheon harbor, visited General MacArthur's memorial, and wondered around a Buddhist temple. We ended our PDAY with 짜장면 (black noodle), a Chinese styled food made by a Korean in China. Anyway, it's just delicious. On our way home Sister Bagley and I ran some errands, met the elders at the church to create an English flyer, and ended the day talking to people on the street. It was a good day.

Tuesday was the start to a very busy week. Even though we don't have any investigators yet, our planners are crammed full. Today we visited three member houses! First was 배애숙S (Sister Bah), the relief society president. Her and her adult daughter (김보희S) were home. As we proceeded to practice teaching them it became very apparent that Sister Bagley and I did not prepare as well as we could have. In retrospect it was ohhkay for it being our first time teaching together but to the members they weren't all that impressed. I was close to tears and super frustrated because nothing was coming out right and I kept struggling with the smallest things. We didn't end up finishing because the daughter interrupted and said, "Maybe we are worried for your future investigators." At the time that seemed like the meanest thing she could have possibly said, but now looking back, she was right. At the time Sister Bagley and I were less than happy when we packed up our things and left their house.

Despite our discouragement we still went to our next appointment to practice again. It ended up being the best thing Sister Bagley and I could have done! When we arrived, a mother and her two crazy children greeted us. Her oldest is a girl, 최재인S (Jane) who will be turning eight years old next month and her son is five and literally filled to the brim with energy. It was a blast. Instead of teaching the family together, the mother asked if we would prepare her daughter to be baptized. I was so excited because this reminded me of my time with my trainer- teaching kids is so fun! The mother took her crazy son into the other room and Sister Bagley and I proceeded to talk about the Book of Mormon to see where Jane's understand was. She is such a smart kid! It was a great lesson and we ended our visit with dinner together. The mother is so amazing! Sister Bagley and I love her so much already. Also I was stoked that I literally understood every single word that came out of her mouth. I mean don't be too impressed because she is a return missionary so she understand what foreigners understand but with that in mind I am just grateful that she was able to level with us to have just a fun evening together. We didn't want to leave but eventually we had to make it to our last appointment.

Our ward mission leader's wife made an appointment with us next but she is in the hospital so we met her there to do our lesson practice. She (이은성S- Sister Lee) is a ward missionary and an extremely bold yet sweet woman. She had been talking to her hospital bedmates about the church and when we arrived she asked all of them to join our lesson. All of a sudden it turned from a practice lesson to a real thing. It went really well. The spirit was actually pretty strong too. The non-members in the room seemed to be loosing interest but when we would ask questions it became apparent that they had been listening the whole time. It was awesome. I don't think that they have any interest at the moment but at least it was an opportunity to help them feel the spirit and love of God! All in all it turned out to be a really awesome day.

Wednesday was busy! First was district netting and it was pretty great! Elder Griffin (DL) asked Sister Hammerl and 우동리E (Elder Woo) to train on finding joy in the journey. They are both fantastic teachers!! One verse that was shared that I loved was Proverbs 3:11-12, look it up when you're feeling like the world is against you, it is fantastic.

My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the Lord loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth. Proverbs 3:11-12

The meeting went over about 30 minutes but Sister Bagley and I were still able to manage to our appointment on time. It was another lesson practice appointment with a member. 한금아S (Sister Han) was less than pleasant when we came in. She kept telling us how much she hates English... We were speaking Korean but she was annoyed that I didn't understand her perfectly when she was talking about her favorite Olympic ice skater- I'm sorry that I missed out on the Korean vocabulary lesson about ice skating moves. Sigh, it was hard talking to her. She kept raising her voice saying, "Nine months?! You've been here for that long but you still can't speak!" I'm getting used to people saying that so I'm getting better at defending myself as opposed to getting upset. I told her that we study each day but didn't give her time to respond before asked if we could start the lesson practice. After we were able to invite the spirit I think she realized that we weren't as terrible as she thought haha. We left soon after finishing.

Lately it has become so annoying to me that Sister Bagley is praised for her speaking ability and all I get is criticized. She does speak well but I promise that I do know and understand a lot more than her. Maybe that seems bad to say but all this time I normally talk about what I don't know and can't do but lately I have been forced to listen to myself say what I am capable of- I think in a twisted way it is really helping my confidence in speaking and talking to people. Anyway, just a side note. After the appointment we met up with the sister missionaries from 계산 (KaySan) for an exchange. This is the first of many to come.

I brought Sister Wing to my area. We had a dinner appointment and lesson practice appointment with 김윤주S (Sister Kim). She is such a sweet and humble lady. We couldn't find her house so she found us wandering on the street and walked us to her house, I was grateful. The lesson went well and the food was delicious. When we left, Sister Wing and I took our time on the way home in order to talk to as many people as possible. It was a good night. I have come to like exchanges but it is strange to be in charge of them and look for opportunities to train these sisters. I don't feel like I have a ton of experience but somehow I am managing ha.

Thursday our morning started with studies. As STL (Sister Training Leader) I am expected to train each sister on an exchange with a spin off of what some leaders trained on in zone meeting at the beginning of the month. I decided to focus on the questions of the soul from PMG chapter 5. I asked each sister to study a question listed in that chapter or another they had then find an answer through the Book of Mormon. Maybe it is a selfish training because I love learning about different answers or perspectives that people have about the questions of the soul. Anyway, this was the first exchange of the month so it was fun to talking about it with Sister Wing.

Here is an excerpt of the "Questions of the Soul" section for reference.
• Is there a God? (Alma 22)
• What does Jesus Christ expect of me? (2 Nephi 9)
• How can a belief in Jesus Christ help me? (Alma 36)
• Is there life after death? (Alma 40)
• What is the purpose of life? (Alma 34)
• Why does God allow evil and suffering to occur? (2 Nephi 2; Alma 14:9–11; 60:13)
• Does my infant need to be baptized? (Moroni 8)
• Does God know me? (Alma 5:38, 58)
• Does God answer prayers? (Enos 1)
• How can I find peace and joy? (Mosiah 2, 4)
• How can my family be happier and more united? (Mosiah 2)
• How can I balance my family and career? (3 Nephi 13)
• How can I strengthen my relationship with my spouse? (3 Nephi 14)
• How can I avoid the evils that threaten my family? (Alma 39)
• How can I avoid sin? (Helaman 5)

After the rest of our studies we had another practice lesson but this time with 김정은S (Sister Kim). She has two young daughters and a baby boy. Her kids were extremely shy and taken back each time I spoke Korean to them- they literally started crying because they were so weirded out haha. We taught and it went well. Before leaving Sister Kim had made biscuits and prepared fruit for us to eat. I could tell that this family doesn't have a lot of money right now so I felt bad eating their food. When the biscuits were almost gone one of the daughters said, "Mommy, I'm hungry." Sister Kim just responded by saying, "Well this is lunch so eat more." It made me really sad.

When we left, Sister Wing and I met with our companions and switched back just in time for Sister Bagley and I to make it to our next appointment with 이은성S (Sister Lee) at the hospital again. This time her bedmates were out of the room so we just taught Sister Lee and her two daughters that came to hangout with their mother for the day. The spirit was way strong and her daughters are so cute and smart. It was so fun teaching them!  After that lesson we stopped at home for dinner then visited another member. That lesson was less eventful because her daughters were crazy but I will say that we had a lot of fun because one of the girls would not stop burping and farting. I am 22 years old but that stuff is still hilarious. All in all today was a blast. I really love Sister Bagley!! This transfer is already so much fun.

Friday was the normal weekly planning day. After we planned out our week we went out and worked. More lesson practice with members! First was with 노경아S (Sister No) it was a short lesson because she is an English academy teacher so she had to goto class but before we left she wished us a happy Valentines Day with a box of chocolate for both of us! So kind!! We love her. Next was an appointment with 김보희S (Sister Kim), the same woman who wasn't so kind during our first practice. However this time went a lot better!! She was impressed with our improvement in just a few days- booyah!

Next we walked home for dinner then met another set of sister missionaries from 보평 (BooPung) for another exchange. As we waited for them to exchange this creepy man would not stop starring at us. We have gotten pretty used to is because everyone thinks we are twins but this man was maybe drunk. I tried to make him feel awkward by saying hi to let him know we noticed him looking but that was a mistake. When we got out of the subway, so did he. It wasn't weird until we stopped to wait and he did too. He was extremely tall and would keep towering over me when he asked a question. I would very obviously take a step back, answer, and turn away. Sister Bagley took the phone and desperately was calling every elder to figure out what to do. No one answered. We just had to wait with this man haha. When the elders and sisters came then the man was very prompt to leave. I said my goodbyes to Sister Bagley and took Sister Arose home with me. She is a chatter box but we had fun on our way home.

Saturday was a hard morning to get out of bed. Last night Sister Arose talked until about 12... In missionary terms that is more like 4AM in real life haha. I was way tired but we had a good companionship study, similar to the study I had with Sister Wing a few days ago. Next was English class. A member came and helped us out with teaching the kids that showed up. Who by the way are referrals from 이은성S, the woman in the hospital. The mother, her son, and his two friends all came and it was awesome!! When class ended Sisters Bagley and DeBuse came to us to switch back. I was so happy to see Sister Bagley. It's weirding me out how much I love her haha. I really do think we are more like twins than we have realized before.

To end the evening we had an appointment with 이두례S (Sister Lee). She was a sweet heart! Her patience with us was through the roof. First we ate dinner together and I was trying really hard to have productive small talk but I was mostly failing. Also Sister Bagley froze so her speaking ability didn't exist so when I wasn't talking, they were both watching me eat. But it got better when we started our lesson. She helped us out a lot and it was great. When we left she gave a bunch of food to take with us. We really love her!

Sunday was a great day! Church was awesome and after a few members invited the missionaries to stay for lunch. After we ate, Sister Bagley and I went straight to our first teaching appointment for the day. It was with the cutest newly married couple. We first got lost so they came searching for us then led us to their house haha. When we arrived they made us a smoothie and brownies with ice cream. SO DELICIOUS! I don't think I've eaten a brownie in about a year... What the? Anyway, the lesson was awesome and their cute coupleness made me so excited for post mission life. Hehe ^^

On our way home we got a call from the elders to join them for a meal appoint with a member. When we all showed up guess who was there?! 손훈식B, formally known as Elder Sohn, my first zone leader! Even though he graduated mission life haha he was back in the area to visit some of his favorite members. I felt like I was in America while we ate because there was so much food! Of course there was an Asian twist to everything but there was steak (with seafood rice), salad (loaded with imitation crab that I thought were tomatoes), and the list goes on. Anyway it was delicious and fun. The evening ended with us being late for out meeting with the missionary coordinating leader. All went well when we arrived and it was a nice way to end the week.

How was everyone's week? I love you all!! 사랑해요! 보고싶어요! I miss you!

사랑하는,
슬론 자매
Sister Sloan

Incheon with Sister Bagley

Freedom Park

Statue in honor of General Douglas MacArther

Sitting inside a Dumpling

Queens for a day in China Town.

China Town

Welcome Sister Bagley!

2/3-2/9
Monday was a good PDAY. We met up with a few companionships from the zone to have lunch together. Since this is Elder Breckwoldt's last PDAY he wanted to eat 서정리 보신탕 인계동... Also known as Dog soup! Most of the sisters that came were squirming at the idea, but seriously how many opportunities will you have to say that you ate dog? The elders and I weren't helping the situation by walking in, taking a good whiff through the nose, and saying "Mmm smells like puppies." Mean, I know, but their reaction was funny. Anyway, I am proud to say I ate it, but honestly it just tasted like stingy beef. There was also a lot of fat, that tasted greasy so I avoided eating more than one piece. All in all it was good but maybe it wasn't worth the 15 bucks for another bowl. After that, all of the sisters (Bassett, Goines, Telford, Ward, and of course my companion Tovar) left to go eat some real food. I love those sisters them. We had a good time. After that, it was about 4PM we all went our separate ways to run errands. By 5PM Sister Tovar and I were home so I could begin packing. It didn't take long so we were out on the streets in no time.

At 7:30PM we had an appointment with our investigators (김지원B, 김지윤S <which I have been misspelling, 채두원B, and our newest member 장종철B). One was on time but the other three showed up maybe 20 minutes late. It was no problem, we just socialized and had plenty of time to try and explain transfers. When the whole crowd showed up we free talked for 30 minutes then went into our lesson. At the beginning, we discovered that they didn't complete their homework assignment so Sister Tovar and I put our lesson plans aside to read it and answer their questions with them. We read Moroni 7 but only had time to read up until verse 30. After reading we were able to cover two of the three questions. One question was found in verses 18 and 20, "how is it possible that ye can lay hold upon every good thing?" Brother Chay who we assigned I answer quickly pointed to verse 22 which says, "...in Christ there should come every good thing." Bingo! Next, was a question from verses 27 and 29, "...have miracles ceased?" At first none of them understood because of the strange words in theKorean Book of Mormon so after I explained I asked Brother Kim to read verse 29 which reads, "Nay; neither have angels ceased to minister unto the children of men." After reading he stared at it for a second, his facial expression was surprised, but also kind of enlightened when he looked up and said, "Ahh~ that's pretty cool." Both Sister Tovar and I smiled. Sister Tovar went on to explain a little miracle that happened to us this week.

Because it was a big holiday Sister Tovar was really hoping to receive a dinner invitation from a member so she could experience the Chinese New Year the Korean way. All week she waited and nothing. The day of the mission conference, nothing. Not until 3PM did the elders receive a text from 안순안S inviting all of the missionaries over at 7PM that night. She was elated. After, she shared this all four of them looked liked they had an 'Ah ha' moment. Then clarified that it didn't have to be Moses parting the Res Sea for it to be a miracle, it is just the small things that happen to help bring us happiness from our Heavenly Father. BINGO!! Next Sister Kim spoke up and explained a time when a small miracle happened to her. Dang! The spirt was so strong!! We quickly wrapped up with testimonies and asked them to please read the rest before Friday. We prayed, took a bunch of goodbye pictures, and left. Awesome night!

Tuesday was an early start. By 10AM my companion and I arrived at the mission home so I could attend my first missionary coordinating meeting. Apparently someone forgot to inform me that I should have arrived at 9:30... I was embarrassed to walk in on a room full of reverent leaders spiritually preparing for the meeting. I'm sure I made a real good impression haha. After we began, one of the first things that we did was stand up and share where we served, where we were called, and what responsibility we now have. President called but before I could speak he listed off the missionaries that were transferred to Suwon (companionship became a three-man team and Sister Tovar received a new companion). It seemed like an irrelevant detail until he said, "That's right, we had to send three people to try and replace Sister Sloan." Quite the introduction aye? It felt good hearing that from him even though it was a joke ha. I love President Morrise! The rest of the meeting went well. It was a longgg day (10-4) but worth it to train the rest of the zone on President Morrise's vision for the next month.

Traveling back was a headache. Once we returned to Suwon, time for dinner had come and gone. Instead English class was about to begin so we fretted our students at the church. Today was game day and so much fun! I let the kids run around with my camera to capture all of the candid moments. I love those children!! I don't know all of their names but I do know that I will never forget the fun we had finding them on the street and teaching them at English class. It was an extremely fun night! When class ended, our four investigators came and said a deeper goodbye. It was sad to leave them. I have full faith in them that they will one day join this amazingly fulfilling gospel. I love them. To end the night we had a missionary coordinating meeting with our leader. He brought McDonalds- not a choice favorite but I was pretty hungry so I was grateful. The meeting went well but again, it was sad to say goodbye.

Wednesday was transfer day! Another early morning without exercise- bummer. My bags were packed, desk cleared, and elders were warned of the weight that they volunteered to carry for me haha. Elders Breckwoldt and Giles are awesome! They did not complain a single time, instead they helped and were asked what else they could do. They are fantastic missionaries, I love them. Our first stop together was 신도림 (Shin Do Lim) subway stop. That is where we meet all of the missionaries to swap companions and say our goodbyes. I was anxious to get to the mission home so I grabbed Sister Gapinski and left with Elders Miller and Chow. The four of us had a pretty fun time traveling for another TWO HOURS to the mission home... it really was fun though.

First was lunch, training, then the awkward moment where they have each companionship greet each other for the first time in front of everyone. I was the first sister called and I was paired with a Sister Bagley from American Fork, UT. She is so fun and happy. I really have a good feeling about our friendship and companionship. She is ready to work crazy hard and tackle our new area together. It's going to be a party. After more training we were free to go. I had to coordinate a few things for our new house and new cell phone but after no time we were set to go. On our way our President Morrise made the comment reminding elders to shine their shoes. I smirked and said, "Whoops, I'm already a bad example haha" as I looked down at my not-so-shinny boots. Almost immediately President Morrise got down on his knees, spread out a small towel in front of me and told me to step on it. I was resistant, telling him that I would shine my own shoes but he strongly insisted. It only took him about 2 minutes but still, what an amazing example and humble man. I love my mission president!!!

When it was time to leave, a couple of elders from our new ward came to greet and guide us. These elders prepared SO well for us. I am extremely grateful!! Not only did the other set of elders take my suitcases to our house but both set of elders cleaned our apartment, made an area book, and made sure all necessary appliances and pieces of furniture were ready and waiting for us. I love them so much. I have never felt more open in an area. Granted it is only my third, but this was unbelievable how helpful and willing they were to make us feel welcome and at ease. After another two-hour subway and bus ride, we arrived at our new home! 14th floor with a pretty cool view. It was 8PM by the time we dropped the bags off and we were all pretty hungry. We walked to Pizza School for a quick dinner before calling it a night and letting Sister Bagley get to bed. That poor girl was falling asleep as we were walking.

Thursday was a good day. Even though Sister Bagley and I had no time to unpack yesterday or today we still managed to put ourselves together for our zone meeting. I had a meeting with the other leadership in the zone but nothing too eventful happened there. The training was good. It was the same stuff that was discussed at MLC which I attended on Tuesday, but still the zone leaders, Elders Schofield and Thompson did a fantastic job at inviting the spirit and training us all so well. They are stand up missionaries.

After training, Elder Knapp went on an exchange with Elder Prunner so they guided us home. Again, so thoughtful. Once home, Sister Bagley and I did our studies and then got to work on the street. We talked to a bunch of people and a had a good time together. She is ready to hit the ground running which makes me so excited! We are both so excited to meet the ward and just set this area on fire with missionary work! It is so refreshing to have a companion who thinks, talks, and most Koreans think look like me haha. Already we have been approached and asked to take pictures and talk with people haha. What can we say? This is going to be a fun few months!

Friday was a fun day. All morning we studied and then decided to finish weekly planning at the end of the day. It was a successful day talking to people. Sister Bagley is still a little apprehensive to start conversations she knows that she cannot finish but I kept telling her that I would be either right behind or beside her. She did great!! Her pronunciation is already awesome and her understanding is way better than most greenies. I'm so proud to call her my daughter. :) Before heading home for dinner we met up with the elders to discuss a new English flyer. My last area's English class was amazing and from what I hear the English class here had about 2-3 regular students. No way am I going to let this suffer anymore haha. I have found that this service that missionaries provide is the best finding tool to eventually teach and baptize people. After a little collaboration Sister Bagley and I went home to the day end with weekly planning. It went so smoothly. Mostly because Sister Bagley just doesn't know what missionfield life is all about but no worries, she will pick it up in no time.

Saturday was a good day. Today we had English class at about 3PM, kind of a strange time but it was fun. Only two students showed up and they came with questions so the lesson Sister Bagley and I prepared went untaught. Here were four missionaries at one table helping this woman named Amanda (English name of course). She is in her fifties, divorced, and raising her one son (about 20 years old now). She made a few comments that we were pretty intimidating so Elder Berry took it upon himself to answer her questions which made it so the three of us, my companionship and Elder Higham, were left to talk amongst ourselves. It was fun. After class we made a new English flyer then went our separate ways. Just before dinner time Sister Bagley and I received a call and invitation from our new bishop to come to his house for dinner. We had just eaten dinner but we went anyway.

We arrived with Elder Berry and Elder Higham. Bishop had our companionship share a spiritual message before we ate. It went well. Sister Bagley is really well prepared from the MTC. I envy her ability to learn so quickly. After the message we ate. It was a huge plate full of rice and pork. And I mean HUGE! My poor companion was struggling so I ate my plate and more than half of hers. In Korea it is polite to not leave a single grain of rice left over. People are dramatic and say that if you do it shows that you don't appreciate every little thing they do for you. I'm not sure how ancient that custom is but anyway, I've always taken caution on the safe side of eating everything I'm given. It was delicious but believe me 배가터질것갇았었어요 (it seemed that my stomach was going to explode) haha. I helped clear the table and tried to clean up. Like always the wife rejected but I was persistent. I kept saying, "Should I use this sponge?" Always she said no. Then I would point to another, "This sponge?" Haha she eventually gave it. The family was grateful and in return they showed us around their house- good sign of trust by the way. It was a very productive visit. I love this family!

Sunday was awesome! 10AM was church. This congregation does the meetings a little out of order (Relief Society and Priesthood classes first, next Sunday School, and last Sacrament meeting). You think the elders would have filled us in but they didn't haha. In the first hour I introduced myself and Sister Bagley. This ward so so stoked to have sister missionaries now. We felt very loved. I also introduced a signup sheet that I had used in my last ward for women to signup for a time to allow our companionship to come to their home and provide us with a practice teaching opportunity a total of 16 appointments were made! Who needs investigators when you have an awesome ward? Haha just kidding but seriously the schedule went from nothing to now we'll have to run to each appointment. We are excited!

When it came time for sacrament meeting all the new missionaries spoke. First was Elder Higham (from Canada and has been her for 3 months), next was me (from California and have been here for 9 months), and last Sister Bagley (from Utah and has been here for a whopping 5 days!). After we spoke all the missionaries sang 'I Need Three Every Hour' and then three more speakers followed. It was a great meeting.

After was lunch with some families from the ward then we had to leave to meet the district for a street boarding activity. That was fun. The best part was watching how everyone picked on our District Leader, Elder Griffin. He is balding and a vegetarian so you can imagine how easy it is to mess around with him. My favorite line of the day was made by 우동리 (Elder Woo) quoting a scripture found in Doctrine and Covenants 9:14 which reads, "Stand fast in the work wherewith I have called you, and a hair of your head shall not be lost, and you shall be lifted up at the last day." HAHAHA I laughed so hard. Elder Griffin was a good sport by saying, "I know, I know, I need to work harder." Haha dang it was hilarious!! I love this district.

After street boarding together we all returned to our apartments for dinner. By 8PM all four elders from our ward and our companionship met back at the church for a meeting with our ward missionary leader. It was a great meeting! He shared his conversion story and really encouraged us to teach and testify of the Book of Mormon on the street. They ward is on fire, I love it. Also he talked about setting a goal to make at least four member visits a week. It was awkward to tell him that we needed to up the goal because that week we were quadruple the goal haha. He was blown away and so happy to hear how prepared all of us missionaries are. It was a proud moment. I'm so excite to be here in Mansu!! Now all Sister Bagley and I need is a map and idea of where all of these members live haha. This week is going to be awesome and crazy!!

Did everyone have a good week? 사랑해요! I love you! 보고싶어요! I miss you!

슬론 자매
Sister Sloan

Season Soup.  It's a rice cake soup.  It is said that when you eat this soup, you gain a year of life.  Maybe I will be 100 years old when I return.  Members have fed this A LOT lately.

Side dish.  It's different sea creatures and vegetables cooked with egg.  Yum.

Traditional Korean snack.  Also Season. It takes 8 days to make.  It's a pure rice product.  Puffed rice with flakes on the top that stick with what I thought was honey.  It's rice you boil for an entire day.

This is the PC room that we email from each week.  It's strange and most aren't safe environments for missionaries, but anyway here is a picture for memory sake.

Dog Soup.

First bite of dog!  Elder Jeong in the background is so ashamed and grossed out by the foreigners eating dog soup.  Ha ha

Tastes like pork #disappointed

Sister Bassett, Sister Goines and Elder Jensen

Training again. Meet Sister Bagley from American Fork, UT

View from our apartment on the 14th Floor.

Transfers are in!

1/27-2/2
Monday was a good PDAY. I received a number of emails from people offering advice and sympathy for my current companionship situation. After logging off of my email I had a renewed fire to make this the best last week (maybe) together. I asked several people to pray that I might have added patience and guess what? It worked! My patience didn't wear off even a little. Sister Tovar wanted to run a number of errands and I just followed and directed her. She was grateful.

When our PDAY time was over, we had to hurry to an appointment with 김백희S (Sister Kim) and her daughter 임진숙S (Sister Lim). It was a 20 minute time block that was scheduled for Sister Tovar to practice teaching a principle for pass off. In companionship study earlier, she told me she was ready and didn't have any questions. Turns out, that wasn't true. It was pretty embarrassing to watch her scramble to find scriptures and her notes. The members were patient, but when Sister Tovar would ask such simple questions they would look at me like 'Why didn't you teach her this?' Sigh... If only they knew what goes on behind closed doors. I tried to encourage and help, but she would glare at me then wait for the members to help. Oh well, after that we had to hurry to another appointment. On our way, I told her that I am all hers if she wants help. With attitude she said, "No, I prefer an actual Korean." Understandable but ouch, that hurt.

The last appointment was at 김기옥B (Brother Kim)'s house. His whole family is less-active except for him and has asked us to begin fellowshipping his only daughter back into the church. She (김승혜S) is 26, graduated in design, is amazing at English, and is literally the kindest person on the face of this planet. Because she is not quite ready to begin talking about the gospel we switched our 30/30 program to 30 minutes of English free talking and 30 minutes of her teaching us Korean. During, both parts the church and our missionary lifestyle naturally was brought up so I have a feeling these meetings will be more productive than I thought. After leaving their house the only thing that kept running through my mind was, 'why didn't I start getting to know this family earlier?' I'll probably beat myself up about it later too, but seriously I already love them!

To end the day, as Sister Tovar and I hopped on a bus to go home, I was reflecting on how good our companionship had worked today. I was happy with our progress and my positive attitude, but then that thought was soon interrupted by my companion asking, "So how do transfers work? Will I drop you off at a train station or at the mission home? Only eight more days!" Maybe tomorrow will be better...

Tuesday was good. After studies we had a lunch appointment with a member, 이민희S (Sister Lee). Because Korea is preparing for the Chinese New Year, the biggest holiday here, all students are on a three-week vacation. It was fun to have lunch with Sister Lee, her daughter (최윤사S) and her two-year-old son. We got to talking and she told us her conversion story and why she loves this church so much. I understood 80% of everything, she is such a cool lady! When we left, we head to the church so I could do pass-off with Elder Breckwoldt. It is always so fun talking to him. We ended in time to go home for dinner before English class.

Just before English class, we were waiting at a crosswalk where a little girl was jumping all over the place. I laughed and asked her what she was doing and she replied, "Having fun!" Too cute. She was nine and so happy to practice her English on me. She kept saying things like, "I am apple." Pretty strange, but she was just a tiny bundle of energy. I introduced our English class just before she bolted across the street the second it turned green haha.

Our normal students showed up and about 15 minutes later, she did too! I was shocked to see her and she handed me a note that said, "영어반 7시 가겠어요" (I will go to class at 7PM). During class she began to cry because one of the students, who has ADHD, yelled at her for something. I tried consoling her but it was tough to understand her Korean between sniffles and tears. A couple of my favorite students came to help me. They are 13 year-old boys and I love them so much. Most of the time they are punks, but when they know I need help, they literally run to my side. I really really love them. Soon, all was well and we ended class by playing ping pong together. It was fun. On our way out, the same boy told her that it was late and she needed to go home- he was trying to be nice but it hurt her feelings. She was pretty mopey as she walked out of the church. We were all leaving and I sat her down the street brushing tears from her cheeks. I quickly ran and knelt in front of her to once again console her. She agreed to let us (all six missionaries) walk her home. That poor girl lives far but we looked like the mophia, wearing all black, escorting this nine-year-old girl home. It didn't take her long to bounce back to her normal self. In no time she was a ball of energy that wanted to sing the song "I Wish You a Merry Christmas" with me because she had just memorized it. I love her (최지윤S) so much!! She is too cute.

Wednesday was not only Elder Breckwoldt's birthday but also his last training as a District Leader. He completes his mission next week! The training was super awesome! He is a really good teacher. We talked all about our favorite missionaries in the scriptures and how we can become more like them. I decided that Moses and Nephi are my favorites for their eagerness to obey so quickly with such great faith. His final commitment to us is found in Helaman 5:4, to preach the gospel call the remainder of our days. Done!

And it came to pass that Nephi had become weary because of their iniquity; and he yielded up the judgment-seat, and took it upon him to preach the word of God all the remainder of his days, and his brother Lehi also, all the remainder of his days 

Helaman 5:4 

After, Sister Tovar attempted to pass off, but failed. It took forever but we were able to make it to our dinner appointment with 이은미S (Sister Lee) and her son, right on time. Her eleven-year-old son is such a punk to everyone except his mother. Today it was so apparent how much he loves her. On our way to the restaurant he linked arms with his mother to escort her the whole way. It was precious. Once at the restaurant she really opened up to us and told us about her conversation and all about her family. She is SUCH a strong woman. I really look up to her for her conviction and willpower in all things. The night ended with a split. Sister Tovar left to 평택 with Sister Bassett and Sister Goines joined me in 신풍. I love Sister Goines's energy, enthusiasm, and positivity about everything! She is sassy, but I love it! We had a fun night talking and laughing.

Thursday was a super fun day with Sister Goines. I swear we have the same brain so we were totally cracking up all day and have so much fun. Our only appointment together was lunch with a member, 이형구B (Brother Lee) and the rest of the missionaries. It was so fun. Brother Lee chose to eat at a less-active members restaurant. The food was delicious and after he let each missionary practice teach him a 10 minute lesson. He is a phenomenal person. Soon it was time to leave and unsplit so Sister Goines and I headed towards Suwon Station. The rest of the day back with Sister Tovar was standard. We had another practice lesson with a member, we talked to people on the street, and ended the day with dinner at home.

Friday got off to a bad start. Today we had a Mission Conference so we had to get an early start. I didn't know what time my companion wanted to start getting ready so she ended up sleeping too long. That meant I was waiting in the doorway with my shoes on for about 10 minutes. I'm still trying out this whole patience thing so I kept my mouth shut instead of rushing her. But then by the time we had walked four blocks away from our house, she realized that she forgot her bus card... It was a start to a long day.

Earlier this week I was asked to participate in the choir today, but because we were late for the practice I thought I got out of it. Nope! We had to go on temporary splits because Sister Tovar doesn't like to sing so that was a breather from each other that we needed. The practice was okay. We sang the song "I Was Born" by Jason Deere which consists of a bunch of solos of people singing about where they were born. So... I didn't know it was a solo part but they asked me to sing the line saying, "I was born in California, where the sunsets in the western waters." For one, that is a lie, I was born in Provo, Utah and for two, I am not the singer people think I am haha. When we finally performed it wasn't that great because almost everyone forgot the tune but apparently people's ears didn't start bleeding when I sang my part, so that's a plus.

The whole day was a training by President and Sister Morrise, the office couple- the Grosebecks, and president's assistants- 김재겸E and Elder Woodford. Most people were bummed that it wasn't more of a fun celebration because this is literally the biggest holiday in Korea but I felt the spirit and walked away with a lot of great insight. On our way home it was so strange to see Seoul so dead but somehow we still found people to talk to on our way back to Suwon. Last minute we received an invitation to dinner with 안순안S (Sister Ahn) and her husband. They are super cute old couple and they fed us very well!! It was a good end to the day.

Saturday morning was fairly uneventful. After studying, Sister Tovar and I had our weekly planning session. On days like these I feel like an unproductive missionary even though I know planning is part of how we are able to see success. Anyway, this week's planning was the best we have ever had! It was so smooth and painless. When that concluded we met the elders at the church to first give Sister Tovar a quick blessing then traveled to a meal appointment together. Tonight all of the YSA from the ward were gathering at 정대희S (Sister Jeong or Elle)'s house for a delicious dinner and tradition Korean games! It was a party. They are such a rich family- it's interesting because here you know if people have money by the emptiness of their house. When we arrived, not only was it on the top floor but inside the walls and floors were white with only a few pieces of furniture and the kitchen smelt like steak... STEAK! Meat is crazy expensive here and there were rows and rows of food. It was DELICIOUS! We ended the evening playing the tradition Korean game called 윳놀이. It was so much fun. That whole crowd was hysterical.

When we arrived home it wasn't long until the phone rang for us to receive our transfer call!! Drumroll please.... On Wednesday I will be transferring out of 수원 (Suwon). So sad. I will move to an area called 만수 (Mahnsoo) ward located in 인천 (Incheon) zone. But wait, that's not all! I will be opening this area for sister missionaries, training another brand new missionary that still happens to be in the Provo MTC, and lastly I have been called to be the new Sister Training Leader for that zone. HUGE CHANGE! Strangely I don't feel overwhelmed. I can't explain it but it just feels right. I have Heavenly Father to thank for that because I have been praying to have peace of mind with whatever change that comes. Prayer, answered. It was hard to get to sleep because now my mind was racing with all I have to do. This will be an adventure!

Sunday was a good day. Because it was fast Sunday we had extra time out on the streets talking to people before we had to head to church. Sister Tovar and I were able to have pretty solid conversations with 16 people and we received someone's phone number who is interested in possibly meeting again- booyah! By 1PM we met 오은숙S (Sister Oh) and her son 정태호B (Taeho) at the church for a short lesson. Today we tried to focus on faith so we assigned some homework that will hopefully help Sister Oh understand it more fully. Fast and testimony was good. Because the big holiday ended yesterday, it seemed like the chapel was empty. I was the first to bear my testimony and say my goodbye from the pulpit. No notes or anything! I am so proud of myself for being able to speak from my heart and look everyone in the congregation straight in eye. I really am going to miss this ward and stake. When all of the meetings were over I was able to say deeper goodbyes to those I was closest with. It was a good feeling being able to recognize all of the people I have effected here in Shinpoog ward. I love them.

After church, we had another meal invitation from 안순안S (Sister Ahn) and her husband 최원표B (Brother Choi). Two times in the same week! Haha the missionaries might as well move in to their house for how much they invite us over nowadays. We all had so much fun! This couple is old but so lively and happy. They laughed at everything the newer missionaries did. It wasn't mean, they just thought it so cute how seriously they failed at Korean table manners and small table. Man, I am going to miss them!

I hope everyone had a great week!! 사랑해요! I love you! 보고싶어요! I miss you! I am so grateful for your love and all the prayers that so many of you offer on my behalf. This last week with my companion was a good one for the most part and now I am so excited to start a new chapter of my mission. 새해 복많이 받으세요! Happy New Year!

슬론 자매
Sister Sloan

Seafood for days.  Sister Kim made this.

Don't let the face fool you.  She hates seafood.

Enjoying hot chocolate from mama!

Drinkable yoghurt.  Expriy Date??

Cute baby playing with our phone.

Last District Training with Elder Breckwoldt. He completes his mission next week.

He's just a little excited.

Thursday lunch.

District lunch.

Suwon.

Welcome to our companionship...Can you see Sister Tovar?  Most of the time she has attitude and walks off ahead whether it's just me or even when we are together as a district.