The Gospel is so Beautiful!

Hello all you beautiful people! 

This week was SO long, but SO amazing! 

Last Monday, we didn't get to go out at all that night, because of something called Beggars night. I guess in the midwest, the kids go trick or treating on the 30th, and then halloween is when the adults all get super drunk. So both monday and tuesday we had to be inside or with a member after 6. Tuesday we were able to spend the evening with the Richards and Kody. It was super fun! Kody informed us that he told the girl he's dating that he's a Mormon. So we're super excited for him! 

Tuesday was a crazy day, so we didn't have time to knock. But as we were driving past this one house, Elder Hutchings stopped, looked at me, and said, "I've been having dreams about that door". So naturally, we got out and knocked on it. This young boy, Shawn, answered. What followed was one of the most spiritual lessons I've ever taught. I walked out of there very humbled. I hadn't expected anyone to answer, let alone be interested. I had a lot of doubt, but Elder Hutchings faith was powerful enough to allow that miracle to happen. He's incredible. 

Then on Thursday we had some crazy experiences. Basically, by a strange turn of events, we ended up in this abandoned house, helping this girl clean some stuff out. She had been taught by the missionaries before, even though we had no record of it. She is incredible! Because we met her, we are now in contact with 5 or 6 others who have been taught before, some of which might be coming to church next week. Super excited and blessed that that happened! 

Friday was used up by the food pantry, District meeting in Hannibal, and dinner at the Atwoods! I love them so much! They have given us so much support!! 

THEN, IT WAS SATURDAY! 

Saturday was a weird day. I expected to wake up excited about the baptism, all fired up and a powerhouse for missionary work... That was the exact opposite. The entire morning I just felt so numb and content. It was super weird. Satan was working super hard all morning. 

But then the baptism came, and it was one of the most special moments ever. President Seaman gave an incredible talk about ordinances and covenants. Then I was able to baptize Rachel. There have been few moments I've felt the spirit as strongly as I did then. Elder Hutchings then baptized Kevin. It took three dunks to get him under, but all is well. Sister Kempton gave an awesome talk on the Holy Ghost. Rachel then asked if she could bear her testimony. She bore such a sweet witness about the kingdom of God being the church, and how blessed she is to be a part of it. Kevin then bore testimony about Jacob 5, and how baptism is like grafting your branch onto a good tree, and therefore helps you to bear good fruit. They're so amazing, I'm constantly blown away by them! 

That's this week in review! Also, Richard has his interview scheduled finally! If all goes well, he will be baptized on the 25th. We're so excited!

I love you all! Remember the simple parts of the Gospel are the important parts. Most importantly, they're the beautiful parts. 

​I was too busy listening to Rachel bear her testimony during Sacrament to write a very long poem, but I did get one stanza out. Here ya go. 

How can I explain this love, 

​These swelling motions in my breast?

Overflowing, through my tears, 

A simple, sweet, eternal rest. 

Love you all! Godspeed! 

Elder Housholder

 Elder Mitchell and I rocking our new (60% off) sweaters! 

THE BAPTISM!!! <3 <3 <3

Two of the 7 mice I caught this week. We are at war. Caught both of these fellas within 10 minutes of setting the traps.  (Note from mom: Ew.  They need a cat. )