Doctrine and Covenants 50:44

Mum, PahPea, Family and Friends!

Hello, hello! I love hearing that you're all doing well! I am glad you are, since I pray for you each and every day!:) We are doing really well here in Etobicoke, the work is definitely moving along! we're implementing new ways to work with the ward and it is definitely making strides in the work! I love member missionaries, they're soo cool!:) yes. that means I love you all, as well!:) We had a wonderful zone conference this past week, my testimony grew in so many different areas!! I love how the Spirit teaches so much at once!! who knew my testimony could actually grow that much at once, eh?:)
alright, let's jump into.......
QUESTION TIME!!

1. Are you sending pictures today? (I really hope the answer is YES!!)

I was going to until I realized I didn't bring my connection...sorry! next week!:)

2. Any message for Larissa, whose birthday is this week?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHNOOKUM!!!! I hope you have the greatest birthday in the whole wide world! You should, because I'm praying for you!:) I hope your roommates make you a giant cake and sing to you on your wonderful day of birth! :) I'll be doing the same! but with cookies. and we probably won't be singing since we'll be at a members home teaching a lesson...:) Love you lots, dear! happy birthday!!!

3. How were splits this week?

wonderful! I stayed here in Etobicoke for one and then went off to weston for another. I've discovered that you have to time travel VERY strategically because traffic here in Toronto is CRAZY!!!! haha our 20 minute commute sometimes ends up being an hour or longer! we're getting smarter, though, so don't worry!:)

4. Any feelings about transfers next week?

I don't think we're going anywhere, in all honesty. well, I hope not, at least! But hey, wherever the Lord wants me to go, I'll go! is it seriously transfer calls, again??? my goodness...where is time going......?

5. How did your presentation at Zone Conference go?

It was ok....because we taught at the same time as some zone leaders, we split the companionships and taught twice. the second one went much better, but my goodness it is so difficult to smoosh everything you want to say into 10 minutes so you can give the missionaries enough time to role play! It's a talent. one in which I'm learning VERY quickly!!! haha But it was good, we talked about keeping an eternal perspective while teaching our investigators so they understand that commandments and progression is a pattern for living rather than just up til baptism or a couple years after. It helped me recognize in my own life, why I live commandments and how I see it change my nature so that I may return to live with our Father in Heaven someday. I love how everything in the Gospel can be likened unto ourselves to help us learn and grow! :)

6. Any Ashley sightings?

negative....

7. How's Jorge?

Doing well! Sadly he wasn't able to come to church yesterday but we talked about General Conference a bit and he got really excited to hear the living prophet!!! WOOHOO!! greatest time in the world, as a missionary!!!!!:)

8. Any other investigators?

Roza: adorable sweet muslim lady, loves the Atonement!!:)

Arlene...found on exchange so I don't know her yet haha

9. Did any packages arrive this week?

nope but that definitely makes me want to go home and check our mailbox!!;)

FINISH MY SENTENCE...

10. My favorite study session this week was...

studying "His Grace is Sufficient" from this months Ensign. SOO good! That's my invitation for this week, is to read this talk but a couple of my favorite quotes from it are below;

-The miracle of the Atonement is not just that we can go home but that-miraculously-we can feel at home there.

-Grace is not achieved somewhere down the road. It is received right here and right now.

-There should never be just two options: perfection or giving up.

-Grace is not the absence of God's high expectations. Grace is the presence of God's power.

11. My favorite teaching moment was...

Teaching a less actives unbaptized daughter about prayer. It was so spiritual as we discussed what prayer does and can do for us. prayer is a wonderful tool that brings incredible blessings! how wonderful the tools our Heavenly Father gives that we may be close to Him!

12. I couldn't believe it when...

we did weekly planning and I wrote down the dates for week 5 of this transfer. IT'S MID-SEPTEMBER!!!??? ok. what??? I know this happens to me a lot, but seriously. this is getting insane...

13. I wish you could have seen...

The elders baptism yesterday. A less actives 2 young daughters were baptized and their family was so precious! and she's coming back to the church again! ah. so wonderful!:)

14. This week, I felt my Savior closest to me when...

When I received guidance on something that I've been praying about personally. It just built my testimony that my Heavenly Father is truly aware of me, that He knows me personally and will answer my prayers. God knows us perfectly, so when we don't know what to do about something, why not ask Him? he's our most perfect Resource!:)

15. The one thing I am hoping to accomplish this coming week is...

helping each person I contact feel the Spirit, by profoundly testifying of the message I am sharing. That's the only way people begin their conversion, is by a testimony from the Spirit. I know that, but I want others to feel of that as well. :)

16.  "A grateful heart...comes through expressing gratitude to our Heavenly Father for His blessings and to those around us for all that they bring into our lives." -Thomas S. Monson

This week I am most grateful for...

1. tights. because it's getting insanely cold already. ha!

2. the testimony of solid companions that bring the Spirit immediately!! so inspiring!

3. Missionary Tim Horton's run on the way to Zone Conference. mmmhmmm :)

4. President Scott's yielding to the Spirit in conferences to say exactly what I needed to hear!

5. My Savior's Atoning sacrifice. it is infinite. I testify that Jesus Christ not only sacrificed Himself for us, but that it was essential in our Heavenly Father's plan for us to return to live with Him someday. Many people truly do not have this knowledge, or refuse to believe it. But the thing is, we know this is true. I KNOW this is true. That is why I am on a mission. It's not because I want the stigma of a return missionary in the future, it's not because I know it'll be a good experience, it's not even because I want to improve my testimony, it's because I know that "this is the way; and there is none other way nor name given under heaven whereby man can be saved in the kingdom of God. And now, behold, this is the doctrine of Christ, and the only and true doctrine of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, which is one God, without end. amen." 2 Nephi 31:21

This Work is eternal! and it's the only way our friends and loved ones can find peace in this life and eternal salvation in the world to come. that's why we share it; because we love others and because it's true, because it saves them. I know my Father lives, I know Christ lives, and I know they love us. I know this Gospel is true, and I know that when we entered those waters of baptism, we committed to assist in the spreading of His work. So let us rise up and do just that. I testify, there is no other way that will fill our lives with peace and joy than through the work of our God! Let us aid Him in this, His GLORIOUS work! :) How great is our calling!!!

Love for now and for ever,
Sister De Groot:)

Missionary Invitation: read the talk. :) page 35 in this months Ensign. you might want a journal next to you as well to write down thoughts and impressions, because lots will come! :) oh! and keep preparing for your General Conference get together!:) LOVE YOU ALL!

Alma 13:24

Mum, PahPea, Family and Friends!

HELLO!!! I hope you are all doing well, I sure am!:) We had a wonderful Stake Conference yesterday with Elder Baxter and my testimony grew so much from it, the Spirit was tremendous during the meeting!:) SO wonderful!:) Well, let's jump straight into some questions since I don't believe I have any shout outs today.....if I do....I'm sorry! my mind is a black hole when it comes to remembering special events...sorry!:)

QUESTION TIME!

1.  What was your favorite exchange of the week?

well since Wednesday, we've only gone on one so...that one!! :) I served in Weston with a new sister and she is just so cute!! She loves the mission so much and loves smiling every moment she can! Such a sweetheart!:)

2.  Did you ever figure out the Yvonne confusion?

nope. still confused. ha!

3.  Have you been able to meet with Ashley again?

Not quite yet, but mainly because we haven't been able to get down to that area in the past few days, we're going to try it out this week, so we'll do our best and if it's God's will, we'll find her again!:)

4.  Have you had the opportunity to talk in church recently?

No, but in all honestly...I'm perfectly fine with that!;) Talking in front of people without a companion isn't exactly my forte...

5.  What did you study about this morning?

I was studying the Doctrine of Christ and my purpose and role as a missionary, seeing as Sister Arksey and I are instructing on that at zone conference this week. I loved recognizing the dedication the prophets who recorded their words on the golden plates, had. I mean, they carved their words on golden plates! that must have taken FOREVER! but they understood it was a commandment from our Heavenly Father, therefore they submitted themselves to His will. How beautiful it is, their obedience, so that we may have another testament of Jesus Christ in our day!:)

FINISH MY SENTENCE:

6.  Something new I learned about myself this week was...

I give myself pep talks in difficult situations. :) It might sound weird, but that's how I cope. that, and I focus on my motto as a missionary: Thrive in awkward situations!:)

7.  I was so embarrassed when...

I contacted a lady right after petting an INSANELY smelly dog. We first talked to a lady who had a huge dog that was slobbering all over my skirt, so to keep him from doing so, I pet him a couple inches away from me, but boy did that dog smell rancid! After she told us she was uninterested, we went to talk to another lady behind her on the sidewalk. as we stopped and began talking, I realized that the dog was gone but that awful smell was still there and that it was coming from my hand! oh my goodness, I felt so awkward, cause there was seriously NO way to hide that aroma. She kept making the crinkled "what is that awful smell?" look on her face and me and I swear I was as red as a tomato, I felt SO bad! yeah, sure I could have explained why I smelled bad, but I didn't want it to become more awkward than it already was. ha. good times....

8.  I couldn't stop laughing when....

we relived that moment above. It took me 3 hand scrubs to get the smell completely off, by the way! haha

9.  I felt the Spirit so strong when...

I listened to the talks in Stake Conference yesterday by Elder Baxter of the seventy, and President and Sister Scott. I learned so much about the simplicities of the Book of Mormon and the plain and precious truths of our Heavenly Fathers restored Gospel. I love how the Spirit is manifest even when, and I feel the most powerful, we bear simple testimony. It's just so beautiful.

10.  I know that my Heavenly Father is guiding me because...

Everything that I lack and pray for strength in, is taught to me in a future experience. District meetings, Zone trainings, Stake Conference, church each week, contacts on the street, everything is said to me so that I can grow. I have no doubt that this is His work, so therefore, His Hand is seen in every aspect of His work!:)

11.  My favorite teaching moment this week was...

Teaching Jorge about the Word of Wisdom. He didn't quite understand God has commanded us to stay away completely from certain substances, but He said that if it was a commandment from Him, and that he could get closer to Him by obeying it, he would do it. What incredible faith he has! Definitely a testimony builder for me to always submit my will to God's whether I understand the reason behind it or not. Usually, we learn the reason behind it while we live it, anyways.

12.  One area I would like to improve on is...

my understanding of the Atonement. That and not being so hard on myself after a contact doesn't go "as planned". If I do all things with the Spirit, it will always work out, maybe not in the way we planned, but it will always work out!:)

13.  I am most grateful for...

the knowledge of the Godhead and the blessings that it brings to everyone who allows it. It's so simple; God is our Heavenly Father, we are His children, and He loves us. Because of His love for us, He sent His Son, Jesus Christ to atone for our sins so that we may have the opportunity to repent of our sins and, if we so desire, return to live with our Father. Because Christ is not literally next to us, He's allowed us a wondrous Gift, the Holy Ghost to be our constant companion and comforter to help us continue on the path back to God if we simply live worthy of His Gift. The way is already set, the price has already been paid, now we just need to do our part so we can fully access our Savior's atoning sacrifice and obtain eternal salvation. How simple and how beautiful our Father's plan is!

Well, I'm off again to continue to do the Lord's work in the Lord's way, and I'll invite you to do the same. There is no greater work than that of our Loving Heavenly Father! He lives and guides us, and he is preparing our friends to receive the glorious message of His restored Gospel! Let's share it with all those around us!:) How GREAT is our calling!!!!

Love for now and forever,

Sister De Groot:)

Missionary Invitation: General Conference is coming up, one of my favorite times of the year!!!:) Mostly everyone has a tradition they do for general conference, whether it's having a big breakfast, going to temple square, reading scripture, having a family gathering, whatever it may be, invite someone to attend. and if you don't have a tradition, spend this week making one up for your family! Then once that's set, invite those who do not have the Gospel in their lives quite yet! :) Remember, if it's done out of love, it will not be offensive! Love you all!

Life is like a Potato ~Alexis and Amanda Johnson

Mum, Daddy, Family, and Friends!

Ok hold up! I just found out some incredible news that I am so excited about!!! ALYSSA BAILEY IS GOING ON A MISSION TODAY???? WHAT?????!!!!! oh my goodness, capitalizing everything really doesn't show how excited I am but let's just say...I am SO excited!:) That's just so great!!! What wonderful news to start off a p-day!:) 

Let's just jump into this next area so I can share my quote for the day:)

PREGUNTAS!!! 

1.  Where did you go on exchanges this week?

I did 3 exchanges here in Etobicoke with a few sisters plus one in Christie East area with Spanish sisters. I brushed up a bit on my Spanish from back in high school and, yeah.....thank heavens I'm not a language missionary. ha! :)

2.  What's the update on Chris?

can't get a hold of him...sad day. We're still trying though, doing our best!:)

3.  Jorge?

went out of town for a couple weeks...:(

4.  Yvonne?

ha interesting story here....so we went for our appointment and when we got there, she looked like the same lady but without her wig on, and she was unable to pronounce her words as we met with her. I felt really bad because I couldn't understand what she was saying, nor could the sister I was on exchanges with, and in all honesty...I don't even know if it was her. She said that was her name but it wasn't Yvonne. So I dunno...I'm just really confused with that visit. 

5.  Did the package arrive with the book I made you?  (you'll know what I'm talking about if it did!)

OH MY GOODNESS YES!!! MOM! I LOVE IT!!!!!!!:):):) Thank you SOO much, it is the greatest thing ever! I read one letter every day at the beginning of my personally study, President Scott has incredible letters that are helping me so much so thanks again, it's wonderful!!!:) I LOVE YOU!!!!

6.  Speaking of packages, do you have to pay anything to get them?

sure don't!!!:) 

7.  Did you ever receive your new debit card from me?  (I haven't activated it yet, because I keep forgetting to ask if you got it....oops!)

oh right! haha eyup! I got it, thanks!!!:)

8.  Did you get to play sports last p-day?  If so, what?

nope, we spent the day with a couple sisters, and played guitar! mmhmm, yes please!:)

FINISH MY SENTENCE:

9.  Understanding that there are many aspects of missionary life, one of my very favorites is....

Just teaching everyone. I love when someone in the park wants to listen to you and you end up talking for 45 minutes, being able to share restored truth and then hearing them invite you back. That's when you know the Spirit was there, and you did something right. :)

10.  Sister Arksey makes me laugh when...

I wake up in the middle of the night and she's contacting me or doing follow up calls in her sleep:)

11.  I make Sister Arksey laugh most when...

I just asked her and she said "when do you not?" haha then she said "when she eats my food" nope! Haven't changed at all!:)

12.  My favorite teaching moment this week was....

Teaching Ashley on the side of the street. She's at a very hard time in her life right now and she said that she feels bad for putting God in the dark in her life. We bore her testimony about Christ's Atonement and how, no matter what situation we are in or how dark our life may seem, God is still there, and he will forever care about and love us. The Spirit was so strong as we talked about what Christ did for us and how we can access that cleansing power in our lives, and the yearning in her eyes for that comfort just melted my heart. The only difficult thing is, she doesn't have a place to live or a phone number, so it's going to be quite difficult to meet with her, but we decided on a place that we could continue to drop by and try to contact her, but in the meantime, she has a copy of the Book of Mormon and I will be praying for her every day. Until we meet her again, and even afterwards, please pray for her. :) Thank you so much, I am so grateful for your support and prayers on our brothers and sisters behalves! :) I can promise you, it is truly felt and deeply appreciated!!

13.  Knowing that my mom is itching to send another package, what I would really love to be included in it is....

haha you're so cute....um....well sister arksey's half birthday was last week....

14.  I am happiest when...

I choose to be! I truly am happiest when I share the Gospel. broad answer, but the truth. :)

well, I must be off, But I want to end with a quote I read this morning"...The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds...so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat." When I work my hardest I find, almost immediately, a sense of perseverance that I didn't know I had. I push myself harder and harder each day and as I do, I improve, little by little. It doesn't matter how long it takes for us to progress to the extent we'd like to, what matters is that we make the effort to do so rather than settling to be comfortable with where we're at. God says in 2 Nephi 28:30 that if we don't exercise the guidance and tools we've been given, it will be taken from us. In the past couple of days, as I've been striving to push myself even harder little by little, I've found that sense of perseverance pop up again.  I am so grateful that we have the opportunity to progress little by little each and every day, and I know that no matter what situation we're in and whatever we're trying to improve, we should forever remember and live up to the fact that it's much better to be the slowest one in the fast lane, than the fastest one in the slow lane. (insert swimming tidbit) :) I love you all so much and hope you have  a wonderful week! let's share the Gospel, eh? :) HOW GREAT IS OUR CALLING????
Love for now and forever,
Sister De Groot :)
Missionary Invitation: Follow up on the 21 days promise from a handful of weeks ago, if you haven't started, please start. if you have, begin to pray for ways to begin the sharing the gospel with those people who have stood out to you. :) It always works out, I can promise you!:) I LOVE YOU ALL!!!

I love my Savior, Jesus Christ, and the Love that he has shown for me and you is so beautiful!:)

Mum, PahPea, Family, and Friends!

Hello dearies!!! Oh my goodness gracious, this week has been just fantastic!:) I have learned so much about my personal potential and what can be done, if it's being done with the Lord! I testify that God is very aware of us, and knows what we're going through, and although he can just eliminate you're troubles and worries, he's not going to, because he knows that'll help you grow; he loves you that much. and how beautiful His love is!!! :)

Jane and Joshua were baptized yesterday, and they are the cutest little family ever!:) Josh is 16 and when we asked him what he's going to do in the next few years now that he's a member of God's church, he said "I'm going on a mission!" WOOHOO!!:) They're so sweet and so happy to have met missionaries a few months ago, it's adorable. :) Love them SOO much!

And Brandon! so sorry, I didn't give you a shout out last week!!! I hope you had the greatest birthday in the whole wide world!!! You're awesome, and I love you lots!!! Please forgive you're little sister for failing to be on top of things....I apologize. :) LOVE YOU, happy belated birthday!:) 

Alright, let's get on to.....QUESTION TIME!!!

1.  How did exchanges go this week?

They went very well! I was able to go to the Weston area with S Nuttal for a day as well as S Fisher here in Etobicoke for another and they're just the sweetest sisters! S Fisher is from Fiji, WHAT??? Between the two of us, people really wanted to talk to her since she was from Fiji. Natural conversation maker, right there! haha They both taught me the joy of talking to people and how to laugh while we work! It was so great to serve with both of them!:)

2.  Any investigators?

Chris is super cool, we found him contacting on the street and taught him the Restoration of the Gospel, and he loved it! he said that he has to know it's true before he commits to anything but says that if he feels something is true, he will not revert away from it. :) SUPER cool! 

Jorge is also looking for truth, he's very knowledgeable in the Bible and has read like 12 different versions of it, and so we've been meeting reading with him from the Book of Mormon and talked about how prayer needs to be coupled with reading and coming to church to know if it's true. he's  truly desiring to know if this is God's path for him so please keep him in your prayers!:)

Iyvonne is super cool! We found her outside her home while on exchanges with S Fisher, and taught her a quick restoration of the gospel on the street as we walked her to her bus. She said she's met missionaries before and she gave them her number, but never contacted her since, so now she's back in contact with the Church!:) future missionaries, just an urge; make sure you update the area book in every area, every night! I have to work on it, too, don't worry...;) 

We're working on finding solid new investigators and have a couple solid potentials, so I'll keep you updated in the upcoming weeks!:) 

3.  How is Michelle doing?

doing well! she was confirmed yesterday and SOOO happy to see Jane and Josh be baptized as well! They are all very close and supportive of one another as new members of God's restored Church!:)

4.  How does the ward support the missionaries?

is this code for "are they feeding you?" haha they love missionaries! We receive the most help when they're able to come teaching with us, it is SO wonderful to have a member bear testimony to the investigator so they see that someone 'normal' has experienced a change in their life rather than just a missionary. :) So I urge you, go out with the missionaries, wherever you live! (utah I'm sure is a little hard, but I can promise you, there's opportunities EVERYWHERE!:)

5.  Are their Elders in your ward also, or only sisters?

yeah, the zone leaders are in our ward, too. It's an awesome ward, that's for sure! We all LOVE it!:)

6.  Did any packages arrive this week?

YES!!! Thank you SOOO much! S Arksey was THRILLED to hear that every package I get from you, mom, is a package for both of us:) I'll have to send you back the skirt though, because it doesn't fit, but it's cute!:) Thanks so much for everything, you're the greatest!!! I also got another package paper but we're picking it up today. if it's not from you, then thanks to whoever it's from! haha

FINISH MY SENTENCE....

7.  My FIRST thought this morning, as I woke up, was....

S Arksey is silly when she contacts people in her sleep. :)

8.  After emailing letters, we plan to.....

go grocery shopping! super exciting, eh?:) Then possibly go to the chapel and play sports with the other missionaries, but we'll see!:)

9.  My favorite part of the day is when...

well that's a toughy.....I'd say just talking to everyone!! I finally get to put my big mouth and loud voice to work, eh?;)

10. This week, the FIVE things I am most grateful for are....

     a. The Gospel and everything about it!

     b. S Arksey and all that I am learning from her (aka: SOOO much!)

     c. The sisters we get to learn from on exchanges!:)

     d. The power of the Holy Ghost that protects us and guides us as we live obediently 

     e. President and Sister Scott. I seriously wish you all get to meet them one day. Guaranteed they're going to be famous one day!:)

11.  Something new I learned this week is....

how to contact on the subways. I don't have a problem on the bus because I know whereabouts we are and it's easy to sit next to people, but the subways are super fast and I am super clumsy and can't seem to be able to sit next to someone without sitting on them. yes. what I implied might have happened. and it was super awkward. but hey! I'm getting better, eh? Good thing I'm still sticking with my motto of 'thrive in awkward situations' !:) deary me....

12.  Serving in Etobicoke these past two weeks has helped me realize that...

I have an accent. everybody tells me I have an accent. really. it's the weirdest thing. I'm from UTAH! huh. weird. :)

13.  I felt the Spirit the most when...

I recognized the power of the priesthood this week. The priesthood is not simply a power given from God just to baptize, or just to give the Gift of the Holy Ghost, but is the same power by which God created the universe, mankind, it's HIS power. We were driving the other day and listening to a song that Sister Dyer gave to me while we were together, I think it's called "My Kindness Shall Not Depart From Thee". I'm not sure who sings it, but I would recommend looking it up and truly listening to the words. It's a song about Joseph Smith and God's conversation in Doctrine and Covenants 121:7-8, and it's absolutely beautiful! As we drove, it just hit me the reality of the Lord's work, the hastening of His work and the beauty of it. But although there is much beauty, we need to suit up for the task upon us. We can't simply stay where we're at, even if we think we're doing incredible. We have to continually progress and put on the WHOLE armor of God, not bits and pieces or most of it. Remember: We are saved by grace after ALL we can do (2 Nephi 25:23). I know that He cares for us and wants us to return to Him, but I also know that ultimately, it's our choice. How beautiful it is that opportunity we have to work out our own salvation!

Well, my loves, I need to go, and remember: I KNOW that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the Lord's restored church. not pretty close. or just a good church. but the Lord's restored church. I will serve with all my heart because of that knowledge alone. I testify that I do not know everything, but that what I do know, I know to be true! Stay true to the faith that you do have, and exercise that particle of faith, and read The Book of Mormon. pray about it, pray daily, read daily, and go to church each week. At times, it may seem like just a routine, but I can promise you, if you do so with a sincere heart, it will change your life, if you let it. So please, let it. I'm continuing to do so each day, because I know it'll continue to mold me to what my Father in Heaven wants me to be!:) Let's share it with others, ok? How great is our calling!:)

Love for now and for ever,

Sister De Groot:)

Missionary Invitation: go find that song I mentioned above and study the principle of Diligence. Then, share you're findings on your social connection. :) Share the Gospel in a myriad of ways!:)

Excerpt from President's email this week....
I heard a story recently that some of you are probably familiar with. It illustrates the value of the time we are given each day. (missionary time. ;)) It says, “Imagine that each morning your bank would deposit $86,400 in your private account for your use. However, this gift has rules, just as any game has certain rules. Rule 1) Everything that you don’t spend during each day will be taken away from you. You may not simply transfer money into some other account. You may only spend it. Each morning upon awakening, the bank opens your account with another $86,400 for that day. Rule 2) The bank can end the game without warning; at any time it can say, the game is over! It can close the account and you will not receive a new one. Ask yourself what you would do with this wonderful gift. Would you buy anything and everything you wanted? Would you buy things for your friends and family? Would you even buy things for people you don’t know? The options may vary but you would undoubtedly try and spend every cent every day because otherwise it would be gone forever. In reality we do receive a similar gift each morning. We can’t see it like the money in our bank account but it is very valuable and precious. It is our time. Each morning we awaken to receive 86,400 seconds as a gift of life, and when we go to sleep at night, any remaining time is not credited to us. It is forever lost.  So, what will you do with your 86,400 seconds?”

I LOVE ETOBICOKE!!!!!! :)

Mum, PahPea, Family and Friends!!

Greetings from Etobicoke!!! ok, so I seriously feel like a new missionary all over again-being in one area for the last 6 months basically convinced me I was going to stay there the whole time. yeah, no. Etobicoke? it's sandwiched between Mississauga and Toronto, so I'm in the city. the very busy city. and London? yeah, it's not busy at all so I feel like I just got transferred to a COMPLETELY different place! haha I love it, though! There never is a lack of people to talk to which is fantastic for a missionary!!!:)

OK, I don't have a ton of time, so let's just JUMP in!
Time for.....QUESTION TIME!!!

1.  How was your first week in Etobicoke?

it's been fantastic! We've been trying to get a hold of all our investigators and potentials since we whitewashed into the area, and getting to know the ward a bit better. S Arksey opened this area about 3 transfers ago, so she's helping me get to know the ward and the area! That's super helpful especially because we start exchanges this week and I'll be left alone with another in a completely new area!!! haha It'll be great, though, thanks to our GPS and the Spirit! ;)

2.  Tell me what you've learned about Sister Arksey so far...

She's a farm girl from Manitoba, has one brother, a convert at a young age, already graduated from school studying music, plays the piano SOOO well and plays the saxophone, taught band before she came out, and she loves the Gospel!!!!! oh and she smiles and laughs a lot. yeah, I like her a lot!:)

3.  How are the two of you getting along?

SOOOO well! actually, I think I trust her a little too well...because on Saturday night, while we made calls, I let her cut my hair. she's never cut anyone's hair before. and I let her take scissors to my insanely long hair that I have separation anxiety with. what was I thinking? you know...I couldn't really tell you! haha but she actually did a pretty good job!!! we're going to get it fixed a bit today though...hahaha impulse decisions are so great sometimes, eh? :)

BEFORE haircut picture!!  :0)

READY with the scissors!  haha

4.  Have you gone on exchanges yet?

not yet! we start tomorrow night, we're doing 2 a week for the transfer and one week of 3, which will be super interesting since we have to drive in downtown Toronto to pick up the sisters since they're all in a bus area. haha! If you see on the news someone who is driving insanely slow in Toronto, it's me. safety first, eh? haha :)

5.  How difficult was it to say goodbye (or "SO LONG FOR A WHILE") to London?

it wasn't the area so much as it was the people. The brown's called me up monday night and gave me lots of advice and expressed their love, and I just adore those two SOOOO much! Saying goodbye to S Dyer was a bit tough though as well, but I'm SOO grateful for the time I got to serve with her, she's just SOO great!:):)

6.  Have they had sister missionaries in your area before, or are you opening a new area?

yeah they were here, but we're whitewashing the last companionship.

"FINISH MY SENTENCE":

7.  My first impression of Etobicoke was.....

business everywhere!!!! haha but seeing Toronto, specifically the CN Tower as we drive on the highway is awesome! So. Cool.

8.  The thing I appreciate most about changing companions is...

Continual learning. I learned so much from S Dyer and now I'm learning so much from S Arksey, the learning just never ends and I love it so much!

9.  The biggest difference (so far!) between London and Etobicoke is....

did I mention Etobicoke is busy? oh. well...it is. :) 

10.  Let me describe my new living conditions for you... (OK, I know this isn't exactly a "finish me sentence"line, but work with me, ok?). :0)

A super nice apartment decorated by previous sister missionaries. Need I say more?:)

11. My most humbling moment of the week was when....

I was studying with S Arksey the 2nd or 3rd day together. Just hearing her testimony was so beautiful and it helped me recognize even more what I have and what I should never take for granted. She's absolutely incredible, I'm SOO excited to serve with her!!!:)

12. My new ward is great because....

There is SOO much diversity!!! I love diversity with all of my heart! I seriously think there are like 3 families out of the 50 that are Canadian! haha It's SOOO cool. plus, I am learning on listening more closely to understand people's incredibly thick accents!:)

13. I was especially happy when....

I saw S Caldwell, a couple missionary serving in the mission office, in Sacrament meeting! She's such a sweetheart, I just love her so much!

14. I felt the Spirit swell within me when....

I saw Michell Amandy be baptized yesterday in the ward. Her husband and daughter have been members for a number of years, and she has now made the decision to draw closer to Christ, herself! Seeing there family so excited to become an eternal family and be sealed in the Temple next year was incredibly spiritual, and the room was so quiet as they talked about it. They are such a special family and I am so excited for them and Michelle's decision to be baptized! How beautiful this Gospel truly is!!!:)

Well, I need to head out, but thank you so much for your continual prayers and love as I serve our Heavenly Father out here, I truly do feel those prayers each and every day and they help SO much, I can't even express! :) I know this Gospel is true, it has always been, and it will always be! So let us share this glorious, restored truth with all those around us, whether they listen or not!:) HOW GREAT IS OUR CALLING???

Love for now and for ever,
Sister De Groot:)

Missionary Invitation: So we began this invitation to the members in our ward and I want to share it with you. first, read 1 Nephi 8:12 and ponder on what that 'fruit' means to you. Then I want to invite you to write down 10 names of people that you know that don't have the Gospel. no, I'm not going to ask you to give that list to the Bishop or missionaries or anything, this list is solely for you! then, once you have that list, bring that list to our Heavenly Father, and with guidance from the Spirit, select 3 names to do something for. Give them an act of service, share with them a mormon message, if they have little kids, share a Friend magazine or a NewEra, just do something small that will help you to "invite others to come unto Christ". I can promise you that if you do so with guidance from the Spirit and a prayer in your heart constantly for them, our Heavenly Father will open pathways that you never thought would even appear with this individual, if you do it in accordance to His will. I love you all SOO much! Let me know if I can help in ANY way!:)

"The object of Prayer is not to change the will of GOd, but to secure for ourselves and for others blessings that GOd is already willing to grant, but that are made conditional on our asking for them." Bible Dictionary: Prayer

P.S.  Could you tell Bernick that she is SOOO pretty, congrats (on graduating from BYU), and her hair is GORGEOUS?!?!?!:) Thanks:)

London Sisters  :)

it's called companionship unity even before we got together;)

there's this delicious bakery called mr. christie's here. I'm just saying....
if I get fat this transfer, it's christie's fault. ;)

SURPRISE BAPTISM!!! :)

Mum, PahPea, Family and Friends!!

Why hello!! So in response to my little subject heading today, I have the greatest news for you all!!! Zack was baptized yesterday!!!:) We originally planned for him to be baptized next Sunday, but as we were teaching him on Wednesday, we mentioned his baptism to which he responds, "the 18th, right? uh. that is so far away!!" Taking a look at his progress and attendance at church, we realized he could, indeed, be baptized on the 11th! So we mentioned that to him and eyup! He was pretty excited about that news!!!:) We met with him everyday for the rest of the week and he was SOOO prepared! Although his family and friends were giving him anti-mormon literature, he stayed true to the answer he received from his Father in Heaven! In fact, the opposition made him all the more excited to be baptized!!! He's so cool!! :) After his baptism yesterday, we asked him how he felt and he responded "I feel awesome! I am so glad that I listened to those sisters on the street but got to be taught by the best sisters in the world!" Just seeing his smile made me sooo incredibly grateful for our Savior, Jesus Christ! He truly is the way in which we can develop the utmost happiness, comfort, and peace! And who doesn't want all of those, eh?:) I love this Gospel and am SOOO proud of Zack for making and continuing to make steps closer to our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ! :)

Whew! I just started going off, but before I continue doing that - ;) - Let me give a shout out to sweet little Megan whose birthday it is this Friday!!! Happy birthday, little one! I hope you have the greatest 1 year old birthday that anyone has ever had!!! Dig in to the cake, girl! You'll look weird if you do it when you're older. This is the only time people think you're cute when you're messy, so...DIVE IN!!!:) Aunt JayBay loves you, sweet girl! Happy Birthday!!!

and Bernick!!! Congrats on Graduating soon, eh??? That's so exciting!! You're so old. Good thing I still love you!!!;) Have a splendid day being school free!!!:) Love you, Goob!

Alright, now let's jump in to some Questions!!!!

1.  How was PollyAnna's wedding?  (CRAZY that she's already married....and I didn't even know she was dating anyone!!  haha)

haha yeah...neither did most of the branch. They found out in Sacrament meeting when they were released from their callings! ha! But it was SOO great! They are just the cutest little married couple ever! I am so excited to be there in the temple when they're sealed for time and all eternity next year, rather than just 'til death do you part'! How wonderful it is that our Father in Heaven has allowed us that glorious gift to be with those we love for eternity through his restored priesthood power upon the Earth!:) It's so miraculous! We tried getting a good 'normal' picture, but the harder we tried, the worse it got. so I just had to send you a truly normal picture of the 4 of us! Enjoy!:)

2.  TRANSFERS.....WHAT is happening?!?!?

oh right! haha I forgot to talk about that....:) So...Sister Dyer is staying here in London YSA and serving with a sister that I came out with, Sister Green, and I am actually going to serve in the Etobicoke south area (ps. it's pronounced uh-toe-bih-co), and will be serving as a sister training leader. For those of you who don't know what that is, I'm not all that sure either! haha simply, we will be going on exchanges at least once a week with the sisters in our zone and will contribute in the mission leadership meetings. I might be a little nervous, but know that "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me"!:) I am SOOO excited to get to know and learn from so many sisters throughout the mission! I've learned so much from the missionaries I've been surrounded by thus far and know that I'll learn LOADS more from these incredible sisters!!! How awesome that we can learn from each other, eh???:)

3.  If you are being transferred, I'm hoping you have your new address.  This would be the area to write it in:   Sister Janelle De Groot (please complete)  :0)

nope....sorry not yet! I'll get it for next week, though!:)

(NOTE FROM SHERYL - of COURSE I contacted the Mission Home to get the following information):  :0)

Sister Janelle De Groot

52 Mabelle Ave. #302

Toronto, ON  M9A 4X9

CANADA

4.  Did Luke keep his appointment?  If so, how did it go?

negative. He had something come up but Sister Dyer and Green will meet with him this week, hopefully!

5.  How did Agya respond to more doctrine being shared?

he's still quite unsure, but loves the Book of Mormon. We're not quite sure what he needs right now, so that is definitely on our minds, and will be on sister Greens mind pretty quickly, I'm sure! and the branch is taking him under their wings and supporting him and inviting him out to activities, so maybe we'll see some progress there...?

6.  Is Kevin continuing to progress?

not exactly...he wants to get baptized, but works a lot on Sundays and is busy recording music so we are unable to meet with him very often. We made a few appointments this week but they didn't work out, so hopefully we can help him open some time this week and get work off for church, because church is necessary in receiving answers from God!:)

7.  What about Zack (aka doppleganger Ryan)?

BAPTIZED!!!:) he's SOOO excited to receive the Gift of the Holy Ghost next week, then the Priesthood, and serve in the ward!! I think he'll be a solid missionary one day, as well!!!:) He's AWESOME!!!!!!:)

Now let's do some 'finish my sentence', eh?:)

8.  When I walk out the FRONT DOOR of my BUILDING each morning, I see...

Wonderland road peeking through a handful of Washington-like trees with a sweet old man named Murray smoking on the bench waiting to greet us with a warm smile and a 'have a nice day!!' :)

9.  I was really surprised to discover that Sister Dyer...

is awesome. no wait, I totally already knew that!!!:)

10. I'm most excited about this next transfer because...

I get to serve with Sister Arksey as my companion! I have met her a few times and she is the sweetest sister ever! Her and be able to go on lots of exchanges and learn from many other awesome sisters!!!:)

11. One of the things I admire most about President Scott is...

His devotion to his calling. He treats every moment with love and respect because he knows Who he is serving and Who he represents. The love he and Sister Scott show to us missionaries is absolutely inspiring!! and he lives each moment righteously so that he can be worthy to receive revelation on our behalf. I love those two with all of my heart!!!:)

12. Something that touched my heart immensely this week was...

Zack's dedication to his answer from our Heavenly Father! So much opposition came his way and he refused to step away even the tiniest bit! How grateful and inspired I am by his incredible faith in Jesus Christ!:)

13. I love it when...

I get ready in the morning and finally get to put on my nametag! I know it sounds cheesy, but seriously, it is a constant reminder of who I am serving, that I am indeed, a set apart missionary for my Savior Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father! Yesterday, in Gospel Principles, we talked about missionary work and why we do it. and it really is the most rewarding work in the world, because it's the reason we're even here on Earth! it doesn't matter what our circumstances are, we can share the Gospel! I believe it was Elder Bednar that said "If you are not a full time missionary with a nametag pinned on your chest, now is the time to paint one on your heart." Elder Holland said in my favorite talk in the world entitled the 1st Great Commandment, "Ours is not a feeble message, it is not a fleeting task. It is the work of Almighty God and it is to change the world!" So, let's share it, because truly, nothing brings ANYONE greater joy than sharing this Glorious message of eternal Truth!:)

Well, lovelies, I need to be off now, but know that I KNOW this Gospel is true! I say it each week, why? because I know without a doubt, through personal experience that this is indeed the work of our Heavenly Father! Let us allow the truth to change us, and once it's done that, let us share it with the world, for everyone needs this truth and love in their lives!!!:) How GREAT is our calling???:)

Love for now and for ever,

Sister De Groot:)

Missionary Invitation: number 14. Go read that talk. I dare you not to cry. :)

2 Nephi 28:30

Mum, PahPea, family and friends!!

Bonjour! Comment allez-vous? ...and that's the extent of my french! haha compliments of my cute little french-speaking-at-university companion!:) eyup. she's pretty great!:) My goodness, missionary work is so rewarding!!! Seriously. You know how when I would get very little sleep at home, and I'd be crazy hyper? well that's how it is here!! not to the extent of hyperness I'd have back at home, no no...that would send these adorable canadians running for cover, but naturally, I feel like I should be in hibernation, yet I have so much energy at all of the times!!!?!?!? how does that work, you know, I really couldn't tell ya!:) But I sure do like it!:) This week was awesome, and we saw so many blessings come from so many unexpected places!!:) Such is missionary work, eh?:)

I have lots to talk about, so let's just jump into....
QUESTION TIME!!!
1.  I'm thinking next week is TRANSFERS, am I correct?  (Also, I'm thinking there is a good chance that you will be leaving London.  What are your thoughts?  ALSO....I'm going to hold off on sending you a package until I hear where you'll be next week, OK?)

It sure is, and my goodness, I seriously feel like this transfer started last week! Crazy....and yes, I do think I will be leaving London this next transfer. which makes me really sad to be completely honest. I LOVE London SOO much! I told Brother Brown (the one who calls me the brat but he really does love me ;)) on Sunday that he has to be nice to me this week because I'll probably be leaving next week, and when he realized I was serious, he got so disappointed! haha poor browns, because of it, they actually invited us over for dinner haha :) Love that family SO much!

2.  How is Luke doing?  

We were actually unable to get a hold of him for a bit, but as we were shopping this morning, we ran into him at Dollarama and set up an appointment for tomorrow!:) I LOVE how the Lord works, just LOVE it!:)

3.  What about Agya?  (LOVED the "testimony bearing" story!!)

He's doing well, but he's still very hesitant about being baptized again for fear of making it a joke. We're helping him realize the importance of being baptized by the right authority, and feel that sharing another doctrine in the Gospel in the Plan of Salvation will help him out with that. Everything works out the way it's supposed to, eh?:)

4.  Kevin?

Kevin is doing really well! He realized the importance of really putting in his effort in reading the Book of Mormon this past week and says he is seeking much more earnestly than he was before. Every time he comes to church, he just says 'there's a good feeling here'. :) I love when we recognize the Spirit, just LOVE it!:)

5.  Anyone else you are teaching?

Zack was previously being taught by other missionaries but then was passed onto us and he is so cool!! He actually reminds me SOOOO much of Ryan!! Oh my goodness, it's so crazy how much you two are alike, Ry!! like seriously. I'm teaching your doppleganger up in London, ON just in case you were wondering....:) anyways! So yeah, he's very sincere and progressing very well! He has a baptismal date for the 18 and I really hope I will be here to see it, but most likely....I'll just be getting a picture. But hey, it doesn't matter if I'm here or not, he's getting baptized!!!:) So proud of him!:) 

IT'S TIME TO PLAY....."FINISH MY SENTENCE!!!"  :0)

6.  WHEN I LOOK OUT MY BEDROOM WINDOW, I SEE....

a tree. it's big and green and each morning I watch a dove fly back and forth and feed her little ones. it's so adorable!:)

7.  THE FIRST THING I NOTICE EACH MORNING WHEN I WALK OUT MY FRONT DOOR IS...

another door. :) 

8.  THIS MORNING'S PERSONAL SCRIPTURE STUDY FOCUS WAS.....

Sanctification through Christs Atonement. It was SOO good! I wish I had more time to go into detail but let's just say that sanctification means the cleansing of oneself through ritual washings and annointings both literally and figuratively - ordinances such as baptism and taking the sacrament and ALLOWING the Atonement to cleanse you completely. :)

9.  ONE WAY THAT SISTER DYER AND I ARE STRENGTHENING OUR COMPANIONSHIP IS...

starting to go running each morning! weird how that would strengthen our relationship, but it is actually! haha

10.  I WAS SO EXCITED WHEN....

PollyAnna called us the other day to tell us her exciting news! Brace yourselves, people....PollyAnna is getting married on Saturday (yes THIS saturday) to our ward mission leader!!! and she told us that she is planning her sealing around the time when S Dyer and I can be there!!!! SOOOOOOOO exciting, it's ridiculous!!!! :):):):):) and yes, you may be thinking-woah. that's fast. maybe, but hey, when you know, you know, eh?;)

11.  THE SPIRIT WAS SO STRONG AS....

Shy Zack came out of his shell and actually prayed with us! He's quite timid (or so he plays off..haha) so seeing him pray, and with his 7 year old sister was amazing!:)

12.  MY FAVORITE TEACHING MOMENT WAS.....

Teaching Zack about Prayer. After he prayed, The Spirit was so strong as we bore testimony to him, and noticed a layer of tears developing in his eyes. It was the sweetest thing in the world!!! This Gospel is SOOOO true and it changes lives!:)

13.  FIVE THINGS I AM ESPECIALLY GRATEFUL FOR THIS WEEK ARE....

     a) The Gospel

     b) The Godhead

     c) My Mom and Dad

     d) My friends and family

     e) popcorn. duh. :)

Well my lovelies, I must depart, but please know that I love you SOOOO much! and know that I know this Gospel is true! I'm going to get kicked off the computer soon, so let's share the Gospel to all!!!:) HOW GREAT IS OUR CALLING???

Love for now and for ever,
Sister De Groot:)

Missionary Invitation: Go to the temple with a question. and study it in your mind and heart and talk with God about it in prayer! :)