October 19-letter to the Thompsons

Seriously?  11 pm...murder?  It's okay - it just means more time I can contact people and they cannot escape!  I'm excited!  Well, I guess that means we are going to the temple on Wednesday?  What did you decide?  I love you.

 

Tomorrow...well...really in like 2 days for me....it will just be literally the longest day of my life!  Sister Howell is much more lucky, she gets in in the afternoon, but she has a direct flight to San Fransisco from Germany.  Maybe I'll call you when I get to the airport.  Dobre?  I love you!  I cannot wait to give you a big hug!  You two are amazing!  Have a spectacular patient day!

 

So, my last day.

 

I'll tell you about my last week!  It was crazy!  But, wickedly righteous!  We had a great time together!  I paid for taxis so that we could still meet our goals - with the minus of 3 days!  And we did!  We had many lessons!  Amazing lessons!

 

My last lessons with these amazing people.  We packed it with messages of the Savior and his love for us.  We told one girl that she could quit smoking.  Another lady that by the power of the Book of Mormon she would gain a testimony of being baptized!  We told members to go to the temple, to be prepared for conference, and to always move forward.  We found new investigators and invited others to learn more.  We had a fantastic week.  Then, it didn't stop when I had to come to Kiev!  It was amazing.  I went to the temple!  There I was filled with the most magnificent peace and comfort from Heavenly Father.  I am so thankful for the temple.  It was so wonderful to see the members as well serving and the amazing senior missionaries were so helpful!  It was perfect!  There is such a thing as perfection - but it only happens in Heaven - and I am so grateful that we have a little part of Heaven in the temple!  I hugged many members that I still remembered from 1.5 years ago.  I love them!  I absolutely love them!  I was even more happy to see them actively serving - often in the temple.  So, we served and learned in the temple and as we were sitting in the celestial room - the Temple President and his wife came in.  We saw them every day while we were here for the open house and they had been helping us all the way through the temple that day.  They asked if we wanted to go to a sealing.  Um, no hesitation (partly because at first I didn't hear them) I said yes.  It was absoultely beautiful!  A nice young man and a beautiful girl were sealed together!  Filled with the happiness that comes from knowing that their marriage is eternal.  That they are covenanting not just together but with God!  And He will connect them with their ancestors and decendants for ever!

 

I am grateful that we have this covenant!  To always help one another and learn from one another!  I love you!  It's amazing!  Then, we watched conference!  I love conference!  I learned so much and Heavenly Father has really been thinking about me!  He thinks about all of us, but, I am grateful that I know that He has time for me too!  I don't want to always bother Him...because I know He has so many "sheep" He is herding - and I've already found the green pasture and am safely following the fences (not like that crazy cow that wanted out). 

 

Well, Sister Howell and I are pretty sure are letters are cheesy enough.  So, for fun...yesterday as we were leaving, walking past the temple going home after conference we see two girls walking towards us - one of them looks very familiar.  Then, I recognize her as a girl I taught in Xmelnetsky!  It was amazing - Valeria!  We took pictures at the temple and talked about life!  It was just a sweet tender mercy that just filled me hope with joy!  Love the Lord!

 

We also met with some great members here and old investigators and made lots of phone calls while we are here.  The Lord takes care of us and I know that He will continue to do so!  I pray that we will always search for His hands and His path and when we are actively searching - it is much easier for Him to lead us!  He wants us to follow Him but, He doesn't force us.  However, if we sincerly search - ask and ye shall find!  Know that's true.

Well, tangents are almost over...now you'll just have to listen to them (and I make even less sense when I ramble without a keyboard and a screen to stop me...so heaven help you!)

 

I'm still not perfect.

 

I'm still trying.

 

So, please forgive me when I make mistakes.

I'm probably better than a year and a half ago!

 

Love you lots

 

Sister Murphy

October 19-letter to sister

You are cool!

 

Way cool.  And probably enormous!  Well, you are probably super cute...and just feel huge.  I would.  I've seen some pregnant ladies.  Hey just so you know.  You being pregnant has given me a huge edge on contacting families.  So, thanks!  Part of the Lord's plan.  I just tell people that I'm going to be an Aunt in 2 months...1 month...3 weeks...1 week...maybe today.  Still don't know...and they are just like:  Awesome!  Families are great and I say - I know!  And they are so important.  and viola - we are talking about the gospel!  You little pregnant missionary you!

 

I'm in a good mood - only because God has blessed me so much.  I love my mission.  I was really dreading going home!  (You know that).  So, I began to pray to Heavenly Father that He would help me - and He has.  Not to mention that my last three days have been packed with spiritual blessings:  Friday - XPAM (temple); Saturday - Conference; Sunday - Conference.  = Inspriation.  I also love our Prophet!  I am so thankful that He reminded me to be grateful!  I am grateful and this mission has been absolutely the most thrilling, growing, miraculous experience of my life!  I can understand the frustration of Moroni when He couldn't express well His feeling for the Savior - It is impossible even in my native language.  My feeling for my mission are something I've felt over this past year and now that I have reflected on the time - I am even more so grateful for every second!  Unfortunately, I am very weak at expressing them.  So take a second and feel it!  Extreme happiness!  Isn't it just radiating!

 

Yes, that is the joy from the Savior!  Joy He wants us to experience always! 

 

I love you!

I am excited to be there - imagined or...by the will of God.  (I prayed for it...once...and then I realized that I was silly and told God to just be in charge...He knows best.)  Being on a mission we get so specific in our prayers - I've prayed for some pretty crazy things!  Like once we were trying to sleep and the night club underneath was partying - said a prayer...

or, for anti husbands of amazing women we were teaching...

 

Which, by the way have been answered!  I just called on Friday this amazing investigator from my first transfer!  She was golden!  And wanted to get baptized - and her husband wouldn't allow it.  She just divorced him - 2 weeks ago.  She is happy and feels like this is what God wanted her to do in her life.  She is positive that the Lord is directing her!  I am happy for her and hope she will come back to the realization that she had over a year ago. 

 

Well, like you said...I'll see you in probably a week.

are there tickets already?

 

crazy.

I love you!

 

and your crazy husband.

 

and your adorable little baby...she is perfect!  krim poopy diapers...

 

Love,

 

Sister murphy

October 4- letter to sister

President Steinegal said this word today, so I know I can use it.

Heck yes, I'm coming out.  And, I'm even secretly hoping that your baby is waiting and that she'll be late.    Well, I cannot believe there is only a week left.  CRAZY!

So, I'm not taking a p-day this week.  It's really not that crazy...because today we had a zone meeting and are supposed to take p-day tomorrow.  But, President told me that if I want to go to the temple I need to go into Kiev early - that's Thursday.  He told me that during our lunch, and I kind of panicked.  Literally...I couldn't finish eating...and started to cry.  I was surrounded by elders.  It was pretty awkward.  But, they are all really supportive.  I love this mission.  I love missions.  I love service.  So, yes, I will be able to serve in Kiev - but that means everything  I wanted to do here I have to do, in well, tonight and in two and half more days.  Then, I go to kiev, go to the temple - and watch conference in Ukrainian...and then...vce.

We've been having a great transfer.  Have been teaching many people and working with the members.  I love this work.  I love these branches.  I love this country.  It's my family!  And it's sad to think that I don't know when I will see them again.  

Well, I love you.

I bought you a scarf today...I don't know if there is anything you want me to bring home?  

I cannot probably fit an entry table into my suitcase...so you might just be better to look for that on craigslist. 

Well,

I love you,

Sister Murphy

ps  still haven't gotten over the panic..feel a little faint and like I might throw up.....  Yes, I was able to eat a whole pizza and ice cream- after the initial panic wore off...it was time to comfort food eat.  I might gain 10 more pounds in this last week!

Love you lots!

LSSTER M

October 4th

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRANDMA!

zdem narodzhennya!  I hope you have the happiest day...besides the one you'll have in about a week...and you smile...and eat ice cream without sneezing!

Okay, so, yes....a week left.  But, I still have one more week to e-mail.

I have no idea what we are going to do when we get home.  What time am I "supposed" to get in?  I love you very much, and it will be wonderful to see you again!  How fun!  I appreciate all of your support.  If I didn't have you - wow, this would have been difficult!  Well, I owe it to you that I am here!  You rock!  So, thanks for teaching me so much!

Today, we had a great meeting with President Steinagel.  It was a zone meeting.  All of the elders in our zone came in, and we discussed the work and what we can do to be better.  It was super inspiring.  President Steinagel is a great leader!   I have learned so much from him.  

Something I really liked - he taught us the difference between a sin and a transgression.  Adam transgressed...people sin - a transgression is when we break God's law.  Sin is when we break God's will.  Adam transgressed - but it wasn't against God's will - to gain knowledge - to multiply and replenish the earth.
Another example - breaking the speed limit - It lifted a big burden off my back!  Probably not the wisest thing to tell a group of 20 year olds, but it was certainly funny and interesting to think about.  

We also, had an interesting weekend.  We had a great day yesterday at church.  The members gave such powerful testimonies.  I was so blessed to serve here where there are such valiant strong saints.  Can you believe how faithful these people are.  I am so amazed!  We've been trying so hard to find those who are ready to come back are searching for more; those who have the faith to join them!  How is the work going there.  I don't know what my plans are...but I do plan on serving in whatever capacities I can.  When are you planning on shipping me out to Sandra's?  Are you excited about being a g-ma again!  

So, things I need to do:

I need to get contacts...

I need to probably go to the dentist (especially if I don't want to end up like many of the people I serve - toothless)

I need to renew my licence.  

well, I also need to give some big hugs!!!

I love you bunches!

Love,

Sister murphy

p.s. last e-mail...I still have one more week left.  I better get one more!

Love you!

did you get my e-mail.  Can we go to the temple on Tuesday or wednesday?  Whenever would be best for you~

Love you!

Sister murphy 

September 27th

Hello Grandma and Grandpa!

Well, I guess I have to start counting now too.  Only 15 more days left.  Scho take?  That isn't much time!  I have to get busy!  But, the Lord is filling up every day with miracles, and I am enjoying every second!  I love Sister Carpenter!  She has been sick and has not complained as I have dragged her sometimes without food or eating, better to say scarfing our lunch in 15 minutes - knowing well, that we would probably not eat until we got back at 9.  Poor thing.  Oh, I made borsch all by myself!  I made her sleep, so she actually had a few minutes to recover!  We normally eat lunch at 11 right before we go out, so we don't have to waste time going back to our apartment.  


So, I don't know what to say, I guess I'll be at church on Sunday.  Oh, I do want to go to the temple.  Can we go like the first day I get back?   I haven't been in quite a long time, AND I would like to go before I get set apart.  Is that possible?  I hope so!  Isn't it a blessing that we sacrifice to go to the temple!  I love every opportunity that we have to "sacrifice" for a blessing.  Because, we get way more out of it.  We could have a nice road trip!  What do you think?  I'll drive!  Oh, wait, I think my licence is expired. Well, I'll use Sandra's; she doesn't look quite like herself now anyways.

So, about those pictures on the board, I hope they are good pictures...If you know what I mean.

So, I probably will miss out on Conference this year.  ...I guess I'll read it.  Currently I am listening to Women's conference, but I won't get to listen to all of it.  

I suppose I can tell you about some of the miracles that happened this week.  Well, krim toho...besides the 12 lessons that we planned in vain...we still had many great lessons!  One was with a lady named Z...!  She is a great lady who we have had the pleasure of comforting her and using the Book of Mormon to invite the Spirit into her life so that she can feel the love of God.  She is very sincere, and we had a great time sharing our testimonies with one another!  

We also had some amazing miraculous breakthroughs in reactivation efforts.  I have been calling a lady almost once a month since I've been in L'viv...so maybe about 4 times.  Well, every time I call - she is not very pleasant and either hangs up or says...I don't have time...click.  Very nice!  Well, Saturday we had a great day working with less actives, and I decided if making phone calls were impossible why not go visit her.  It was a really fun adventure!  We wandered through parts of the city that maybe missionaries have not been for many years!  I felt like a pioneer.  We had many good contacts and even helped served one lady named A....  She recognized us right away as Mormons and had a complete change of heart.  It was great.  We carried her groceries back to her house.  She had a very big, nice dog.  There were actually many very "nice" dogs in this part of the city.  One even did some pretty tight somersaults as he barked and jumped and not only scarred us but a really large floppy-eared rabbit.  Well, we finally made it, more or less unscathed, with a bag of smachno cookies we bought from two really nice ladies who were really excited to meet us!  Well, Lecya came to the door and asked:  "Who invited you?"  and well, from there it only got better!  I'm glad, because if it got worse....she had two big holes already dug.  :) She didn't invite us in, but we talked about her past year - her husband passed away.  We talked about the gospel, and I told her how the gospel can fill holes (see above - it was a good analogy) in our lives that we aren't even trying to fill.  We even somehow managed to make her take the cookies!  We talked about the temple and what it really means for us.  We asked if we could serve her - fill her holes (literally!).  She is repairing some pipes.  Told about the branches.  It was fun and then we left!  And we were friends.  I was grateful for the excitement of that day...and then we did one more stop-by and found a great family to teach!  What a blessed day.  

Well, Sunday came - I love Sundays.  I love this branch - even if they cannot decide if they want me to stay or go.  They thought yesterday was my last Sunday, and I was super glad that it wasn't.  But, they said they love me, and they would find me a great Ukrainian man and all I had to do was stay.  I said...well, I won't tell you what I said!!  I told them I trusted them, but I am excited to see you, so, don't worry!  

Well, Sunday (after church of course) we had a few bumps in the road, but we didn't give up and actually changed our plans in the end - to just go out and find someone.  And, we did!  Her name is Lena!  She has a beautiful 4 year old daughter, and she and her husband read the proclamation to the family before the evening was over and even called us back before we could call them.  I love this work!  I love that the Gospel is for everyone.  We just have to move forward always.  Don't just settle, don't just be satisfied - search for more.  Be thankful, of course, but keep progressing!

I wish I could share with you everything...but...there are only a few more minutes left!

But,  I love you.

I love the Lord!  

I love this work!

I love Ukraine!

I love Sister Carpenter!

I love L'viv!

I love Borsch!

I love babies!  And I love that I'm going to be an Aunt Soon!

Well,

Have a great day!

Love,

SIster Murphy

September 20th #2

Amy at her apartment in Ukraine.

What a fun celebration!  Congratulations you two!  I love you so much!  It sounds like you enjoyed yourselves!  So, it sounds like Joyce was an angel!  I was just listening to a talk by Elder Eyring - are you keeping a journal?  You have certainly seen His hand in your life!  It just reminded me that I need to do a better job at writing in my journal!  The Lord is always blessings us!  We just need to keep a record of it!

Well, we just had another great week.  We are still searching for those who are ready to make covenants with God.  I need to work harder and faster!  I did meet a lot of amazing people this week.  Every day there were some great contacts: from the lady who sat next to me on a tramvau, to the man we asked for directions and were later able to share the message of the Restoration and a Book of Mormon.  There was also a great contact with a lady on a bus - she had a lot of questions!  It is just great to represent Christ and have everything turn to the Gospel - the reason why I am in this blessed country!  But, it can happen in real life.  How many people do we meet each day that we can also lead them through representing the Savior.  No, we don't have to wear a name tag with His name on it, but we do have His name written on our hearts.  That is what we covenant at baptism, at least!  There was even a great man yesterday morning that we gave a Book of Mormon  -  who gave my companion a big kiss!  Not mozhna...extremely awkward...and hilarious!  But, I appreciate his enthusiasm??  We did contact a lot of people and received a few numbers - continuing to work with all of the amazing people we have met.  But, we are still searching for those who are willing to test their faith, desire to come unto Him and are willing to experiment on the Words of Christ to find an answer.  

The yellow building not far from the temple.  There are actually two.  Their is a building supply store - Maesteroc (which means like for professionals).  There is also a "hotel."  It is a cheap place the church has in many European temples where people only pay for the electricity used or something - basically the cheapest hotel in Kiev for temple patrons.  People are coming at great sacrifices to go to the temple and they stay for a few days to serve and partake of the blessings.  It is very nice and very comfortable.  They have a huge kitchen with multiple ovens and refrigerators and locks...it's very nice!  I do get letters from dear elder from you.  You probably don't have to send any - anymore.  Since, I probably won't get them.  But, thanks for all you have sent me!  I love you.

Well, I hope you can be patient!  I still have a whole lot more I have to do!  I feel it, and I'm trying to do it all before my time is up!  I love you lots!

Love,

Sister Murphy

September 20th

Hey,

My back hurts too.

I am excited!  Only 20 days until your baby!  

Hey, what is your address.  I wrote a letter last week, but didn't send it b/c I know you moved again.  Uh-oh.  I wanted you to get it before I got home.  I might send it to your old address.  You live in IF now don't you?

Well, today we start again!  I am excited for the hopes of new weeks!  I love this work so much.  This week we had many great contacts.  I love talking to people and I love never giving up on people.  I had another amazing contact on a marshytka with a lady who at first rejected me.  But, continuing to speak with her and see her open up, we were able to speak about the good news of the restoration and the blessings that Heavenly Father has for all of us.  I am so thankful for the hundreds of people we meet each day, the opportunity to represent Christ!  We had really so many people who stopped to listen to us this week.  I am so thankful for that!  I  know the Lord desires all of His children to come unto Him and I know that only we are those chosen to guide them to find the path.  

Sister C. is wonderful.  She has a heart as big as Ukraine and has already fallen in love with the people.  Our hearts have already begun to feel sorrow together for those who do not want to continue to find truth.  But, she is amazing.  She is doing such a good job and I feel has already accustomed to the work!  I am super excited for this week were we will both continue to grow together.
So, yesterday here is what I did.  but, first let me give you the run-up to it.  Friday, I called our 2nd branch president's wife.  We are trying to help the members do their visiting teaching, and she normally goes with us to do "splits."  However, her and her wonderful family were on their way to the temle.  So, she asked if I would teach Primary.  I love primary!  Then, on Saturday night I called a member in our First branch presidency.  His daughter is not a member, and we have been working with her.  So, we called to see how they were doing.  Well, at the end of the conversation he remembered he still needed to find a speaker.  So, he asked me!  ni choho.  (We have 2 branches).  Then, on Sunday after sacrament, Bogdana asks me if I can teach releif society for the first branch as well.  I told her I couldn't do both primary and relief society so she would have to pick.  She had an hour to decide!  Well, it turns out that the only people who came to Relief Society on Sunday were an American humanitarian missionary serving in Russia and her translator from Kiev.  We decided to do the lesson in English - therefore, I taught.  But, it was a remarkable lesson, talking with these wonderful women about faith!  We shared such great experiences and talked about the lessons we have learned and how our faith has grown.  At the end I understood what sisterhood really is.  There was something special about the spirit that we felt.  We had never met.  But, by the end of our 30 minute discussion, we had grown together so much.  We shared openely our feelings and thoughts about Christ and really felt a bond of love for one another.  I understood more of the blessings of the spirit and how He really unites us.  What a blessing it is we receive this gift when we are baptized - that we, as members of the church, can feel of one another's spirit and feel the bonds that we all share.  The bond of sisterhood & of brotherhood in the church of Christ.  It is true:  Mosiah 5:7 says we are born again and become the sons and daughters of Christ.  We are united!  Baptism is where it can start!

I learned a lot this week.  I am so thankful for everything I have been blessed with!

I was sad to think that you had to go through this pregnancy alone.  but, you have been strengthened!  I am so impressed with you!  I Love you and am grateful for the world of experience and wisdom you have gained!


Well, have a great day.

i have to write Pres. Steinagel.
Love,

Sister M

September 13th: #2

Good Morning,

Everything is going great.

Money is all resolved now!  I hope everything is going good on your end.

You have a huge tummy.  When are you due? 

So, this week was an awesome week!  I am so thankful for Sister Carpenter - she is a great missionary and is going to have an amazing mission!  I hope it all starts here in L'viv.  She is learning the language fast, and I am so impressed with her diligence!  We found some amazing people this week!  And even met with 2 families!  They are not new investigators yet, but we are planning on meeting with them this week again!  We also had some great contacts with other very strong women!  I feel like our lessons this week were much more powerful thanks to the training!  It's been great to feel the spirit more and even find out more specifically how to help these amazing people strengthen their relationship with God!  

The Halls also came yesterday to church and we had a great meeting with the branch members.  I hope that the members will follow through!  But, they definitely did have the desire to come with us on lessons this week!  I  am excited!  We need their help!

It was a great week and I wish I could tell you all the miracles - I know that the Lord really does open doors!  Even ours!  We got locked out of our apartment!  But, the Lord was with us!  

He also opened our neigbors door!  We have a great new investigator who even came to church yesterday!  She is our neighbor - also a musician!  Pretty excited about that!


other things...

I love peaches!  I have had a big fruit every day!  Apples, peaches, nect, oragnes, bananas, grapes!

It's been wonderful!

I'm for sure coming to see you soon!

Love you!

Have a great week
Love,

Sister Murphy

September 13th

Hello Grandma and Grandpa!

How are you!  I love you!  I want to wish you a happy anniversary!  Actually there are many well-wishes from Ukraine: my companions!  Members and investigators - Viktoria, Lyudmilla, Zoya, Lena, Olena and Maxcim, so many!  They all also wish you health and happiness and lives filled with love!  I wish you lots of laughs on your celebration!   And remember me!  Know that I love you and that if I was there, I would be sure to have lots of hugs and kisses to congratulate you!  So, remember me and remember to spare a few seconds for those hugs I've sent you!  This week was fabulous!  We had a busy week, and I feel very blessed!  The Lord really lead us and we had some really powerful lessons!  It was crazy though!  It was for sure a jump in for my companion!  But, we had a great first week!  We found 2 families!  and a few other amazing elect women.  Many of them were very alert and had told us how they are confused and are searching to strengthen their relationship with God.  It was just fantastic.  Now, we are just left with the challenge of what to eat!  That is always something new - learning to adapt to the differences in companions.  So, some funny stories.  Our oven is possessed by Satan...and he tried to ruin my lemon bars - but...he can never win.  We made the best lemon bars I've ever eaten!  (We did have to make another crust, but challenges only make us stronger!)  

Another interesting experience.  We went to a cello with a member to serve them.  It was a perfect day!  Well, besides the point on the extremely crowded marshytka when my companion fell on top of a drunk man.  She's okay, and well, he was never well to begin with.  Those that were squished in the "machine" with us enjoyed the experience - the squishing of the drunk.  No, I shouldn't joke about it.  But, this man was quite ridiculous.  The worse part is that there were 2 and it isn't a rare experience.  Well, at least I have never fallen...

It's been very rainy.  But, I think it's normal.  We are just moving so fast I don't know if I realize it.  But, I do love the rain!  I love umbrellas, and I love that we can still contact in the rain!  Well, it isn't the best contacting - but, there are still people who are not rude - we don't stop them in the middle of the street or anything, but we just give them little fliers or calenders!  It's fun in the rain!

Sho She?

O, I have to finish the story... so we went to the cello!  And walked a long way grabbing a few tart apples and random bitter berries until we found a small quaint white house with a very lovely humble lady!  She is the mother of 5 (her two youngest are 2 and 8 and they are angels!)  We talked with her and then had the most fun time talking with her daughter (8 years old).  She wants so much just to be loved and to hear that she has nice things and that she is special.  She showed us everything that she has!  Even her children's bible that we read to her!  She cannot read, but we alternated!  I would read, and she would quote it back to me!  She was such a sweet girl!  The elders had a fun time with the 2 year old and the drunk father who wasn't quite acting his age.  No, he was very well-behaved, but I think he was just embarrassed.  He wants a better life, but he just doesn't have a strong enough desire to stop drinking.  But, that's why we went.  We talked about the temple and the power that they can receive in their lives if they begin to prepare!  Then, we told them they need to prepare, and we want to help them!  It was very nice.  I know the mother wants it, but she is the only one supporting their family.  She works as much as she can.  Well, it was a very nice day!  And the walk and ride back were also more enjoyable for my companion!
However, when we finally got back home we planned on making phone calls and calling as many people as we could to have a successful weekend.  (Oh, it was Friday).  So, as we were running up the 5 flights of stairs (or whatever it is) mostly because I had to use the bathroom, but when we got to the top and I tried to open our door I couldn't.  I asked Sister Carpenter and she couldn't.  We were stuck.  We have a very stubborn door that usually requires a nice kick (seriously) before he will open.  And after all the kicking in the world - our door was still denying us.  As it happened, on our way out of the apartment that morning, our door handle (which was already broken) was pulled out and...we just left it.  Therefore, we couldn't open the door!  We were stuck!  And I had to use the bathroom.  It was miserable.  I called everyone I could think of...starting with our Landlady who said it was too late but, if we needed a place to stay we could go out with her.  Called all the members in the church that I thought could help and finally found one who said he could help!  (Not because others didn't want too, we have great members, but, they just didn't know what to do or were working).  So, the member still lived 30 minutes away.  I called the elders.  I called our landlady again and she said if we were willing to pay lot of money...we could get it fixed tonight.  She is a great landlady, so I wasn't mad...it was seriously just the circumstances.  But, she also had called a few friends that lived by and told one nice pleasant cholovik to be a man, and go help two young ladies.  He did!  My landlady called again and I told her I believe in miracles and in prayer and I told her to pray and we would too!  We did!  Artyur opened the door!  It was a night of rejoicing!  We even made popcorn to celebrate!  And, I went to the bathroom!

Well, the next day our landlady came back with a Mauster to fix our door handle finally!  So, hopefully there won't be any further problems!

I hope this week was as great as this week!  They can go up and down!  I love serving the Lord!  I love teaching people that their is more truth to find and the Book of Mormon is the key to finding that truth!  I know that we have a responsibilty to help others understand this!  Well, I love you!  I hope you have a great anniversary!

You are amazing!

You are loved!

And I am so thankful for all that you have done for me!

I am sending you a letter finally today!  I'm sorry it will be a little late!  But, celebrate again!

Always!

You love eachother, you are great grandparents, and everyday can be a celebration!

Love,

Sister Murphy!

September 6th

Hmmm, strollers!

Ukrainians love strollers!

They don't have cars so they push their babies around everywhere.  

So, last week we had an exchange!  There were three sisters all together for a full week!  We had training from Tuesday to Friday - 9:30 - 5 and we learned a lot.

It was so fun!  I really feel I might have a hint on how to be a more effective missionary, and it came at a great time.  Right when I have to share with someone the most important things about being a missionary.

I'll tell g-ma and g-pa about my new companion.  But, I am so blessed.  The Lord really hand picks His companions for me.

My land lady also came.  I got behind in rent due to some financial dificulties these past couple of weeks...fortunately she understood.  I am grateful.  So, that stress is over!  Today I feel much more relaxed about money!

I really have no idea how much I've had to use out of personals, but I did make an advance payment on rent...

Wow, I promise I slept well last night.  If you can imagine my poor companion who got into the country and went to the temple and met me.  And then we got in a long car ride to the airport (we tagged along with the elders on the same train for a free ride) and then to the train station and tried to get a little bit of sleep (her first night in the country) on a train.  They second day we fasted and had 5 hours of church!  she is a trooper!  It was hard but she put every ounce into staying awake - we even had a short planning meeting later!

So, again, there is a lot that can happen in 7 days!  I am so thankful for all that happened last week: for the three wonderful sisters I served with, for the training that really helped me to grow as a missionary, and for the time we had in Kiev to talk to people about the temple!

However, I am so grateful to be back in L'viv!  I love this city!  I love these people.  Yesterday was amazing.  The branches had such strong testimony meetings!  Even Sihivsky!  It was so powerful to hear their testimonies of a living prophet!  3 members stayed to receive the blessings of the temple and have really been blessed and there are more that want to go!  They are already planning to go back!  After church we had a great meeting with the branch leader's of Livivsky to discuss a plan to meet with inactives.  They are all charged up!  They are all filled with love and they are ready to serve!  I am excited!  There is much to do here.

Even the members who wanted so much to see the dedication, said the Lord blessed them with His spirit while they prayed for something to be fixed.  I am glad they did not have bitter feelings!  So, we have much to do!  My companion did a great job her first day!  I love her.  I feel more than I have ever in my life that the Lord really knows who He wants us to serve with.  I could not have picked a better companion!  I am excited!  She is very sweet and anxious to help and serve.

I cannot believe that this is really my last transfer.  I'm trying not to think about it, but I hope it is the longest 6 weeks of my life!

So,

We have a lot to do!

Thanks for your support! 

Have a great week,

Love,

Sister Murphy

August 30: Letter to the Thompsons

Hello Grandma and Grandpa!

Happy Monday Morning!

How was your week?  Mine was fabulous!  I will try to tell you everything (sparing the details...because I don't have the time!).  So, We went back to L'viv!  That was glorious!  We spent a week as busy as we could work!  We met some new girls and gave them Proclamations to read with their families and promised next time to discuss the differences between our churches.  They were really beautiful girls!  It was also Independence Day in Ukraine!  24th of August! 

You know what I just realized.  The name for August in Ukrainian is Sickle or harvesting!!  Signifying the month of the harvest!  Very significant! 

L'viv is very patriotic and I was so blessed to serve there for this special day!  Monday was the day of the flag, and our members decked us out in blue and yellow.  I just stood there - it was an Ukrainian makeover - and although I love Ukraine, Ukrainians, and blue and yellow - a flag draped over me and a bandanna tied around my head just isn't my style.  I loved the rushneks though!  So, on Tuesday when we went out on the streets the people were dressed in Ukrainian vishavankas!  They were so beautiful!  Most of them are hand stitched and very symbolic.  My companion was envious and was coveting the entire day!  (We saw many beautiful vishavankas, and she wasn't wearing one!) 

Well, we met with investigators and members and just had a great week of missionary work!  I am thankful for my experience in filling up a planner!  I can pack a day full!  Sometimes it doesn't always work out, but we always have a back up plan!  Sister Nekrasova was wonderful!  She is a little angel!  She read through the entire Book of Mormon during her mini-mission with me!  She had never been able to complete it!  I am so proud of her!  Her testimony has definitely been strengthened!  I am so happy to have had the opportunity to learn and grow with her!

Then, we went back to Kiev on Friday night.  Lena, a member, borrowed a spot in our coupe, so that was fun!

So, Sister Nekrasova and I decided to go to her family when we got into Kiev - they were staying at a friend's house.  This family has indeed been blessed for living the gospel, and they have testimonies and humility as a result of living the gospel and not after the manner of the world.  They have the most beautiful homes.  But, this family really is incredible!  They are always serving, always helping, always donating, and never proud or puffed-up!  It was fun to meet them and see Sister Nekrasova's family.  However, we didn't have much time - we had to get to the church Saturday morning at 9:30 (so we only had an hour...just enough time!)  Both families are incredible!  I love Karina (Sis. Nekrasova), and I am so thankful she decided to serve, and we had the amazing opportunity to be together!  It was a fun 5 weeks.

We made it to church...

Said good-bye and now I am waiting in Kiev for my new companion.  Our transfer ended early, so the new, new missionaries are still in the MTC.  They won't get here until Saturday.  I'm trying not to be bummed that I'm out of my area for another week.  Actually, this week L'viv doesn't have any missionaries!  We are using this week for training!  Apparently the first presidency has developed a new missionary training and this week our mission starts to incorporate it.  So all our zone and district leaders will be in Kiev as well as missionaries who are training new missionaries.  I am excited!  I need to be a better teacher and that is what the focus is on- Teaching! 

Well, Saturday Yana came up from Bila Tserkva, and we ate ice cream and told her about the prophet and told her to prepare herself because we were going to see the chosen representative of the Lord, and we did!  We even got to sing for him!  (well, the missionaries!)

We had a huge cultural celebration on Saturday!  It was so fun to see members and many old friends who had come from previous areas I had served!  I was absolutely in paradise!  If that wasn't enough - we finally took our seats and out walk the Prophet, President Monson, President Uctdorf, and Elder Nelson of the quorum of the 12 apostles!  The choir was already on the risers and the pianist was playing prelude.  President Monson sits down on the piano bench!  You didn't know that he played piano did you!  It was hilarious!  He was so fun!  He teased the translator and even the apostles.  He really understands the youth!  The cultural celebration was amazing!  Ukrainians are so blessed and talented and beautiful.  But, there were representatives from the entire Kiev temple district.  Armenians, Kazikstanians, Latvians, Russians, Belorussians, Georgians, Bulgarians, oh, I cannot even remember all of them.  They all took part - sang, danced (Armenians really rocked!), acted, and told their stories and cultures beautifully!  Ukraine was the highlight!  It was fantastic and the costumes were all hand made - by members - all gifts and sacrifice to show their gratitude to the Lord!  Absolutely beautiful!  Oh, there was even an Ukrainian orchestra of members - they are super talented and the Prophet certainly enjoyed it! 

It was a fantastic night! 

It was a joyous night!  It was a celebration!

It was a beautiful preparation for the dedication of the House of the Lord - the 134th temple on the Earth!

Sunday was perfect!  We were given the special privilege of watching all three sessions!  Not in the temple but, the spirit was still manifest and the messages were still penetrating!

The first session was so strong!  Once again President Monson showed his humor and his light child-hearted disposition.  I was grateful that I understood all of his comments during the setting of the corner stone.  It really warmed my heart to see the purity of a prophet of the Lord and his love for this work.

This is a prophet of the Lord.  He is truly a servant - receiving nothing and even on the only weekend when he had assigned to spend with his family, an 86 (?) year old man will travel to a foreign country to praise and glorify the Lord! 

The other sessions were just as remarkable.  My testimony is 100 times strengthened in the importance of the work of the Lord - saving His children including all those who have ever lived!  I am confident of the blessings and the power that come from serving in the House of the Lord.  I am determined to visit often and learn and grow in the knowledge of the Lord.

I was thinking about my character.  When I receive a gift, I'm the type of person who saves it and cherishes it.  I want to preserve it and maybe because of fear or desire to protect the quality I tend to not use it.

Well, the Lord is very generous with His gifts and they are eternal.  The temple is a gift that we need to use more often!  He wants us to use it to get as much out of it as we can.  And the great thing is - it never wears out, it never gets old, and it is always indescribably beautiful.  It is eternal - it is Heaven on earth!  I cannot wait until I can go in and serve in this beautiful temple! 

Well, now I am back in Kiev, will be with Sister Robinson and Sister Larson until Saturday when our new companions get here. 

I'm excited!

I love you very much,

Have a good week!

A wonderful trip to the temple!

And Happy Early Anniversary!

I am excited for your party!

Love,

Sister Murphy