Christmas Post

Merry Christmas Everyone!

I hope everyone is just doing fantastic. The week has flown by. There is a saying here - "the days are like weeks and the weeks are like days!" So basically the MTC is in a time warp of some kind. So we get 30 minutes to email....and when you sit down and start writing your mind goes blank - so I will try to calm down and think about what happened this week!

Thank you for all of your wonderful letters! They seriously help me get through the days and some are even answers to my prayers. I have seen so many miracles this week. Mostly in the form of prayers being answered. My companion and I have seen much growth in ourselves and in each other. We have loved this week! It is still odd being a missionary. Sometimes I look down at my tag and it still surprises me! I am loving it right now!

So some crazy things. Our teacher, Hermana Purizani, told us on Monday that we were going to play a "game." Its called the native game and it basically means that you get the opportunity to speak in espanol all the time in order to win points by people thinking you were the native speaker. So whoever is the best or speaks the most espanol wins. So this is not over till Friday. The first night was one of the most frustrating moments of my life. I really had a hard time speaking at dinner. It was so hard and people laughed at me. Which those of you who know me know that I am sensitive when it comes to things and right now I am sensititve about spanish. Basically I got my feelings hurt. I kept going and you know what the next day I actually knew more espanol. I was humbled (that happens alot just so you know). It is so important to be humble because the only way we can learn anything this quickly is the help of Our Father in Heaven. Now I am so much more confident in espanol and its only been two days!! Hermana Thomas and I are going to teach a whole lesson in espanol on Friday or Saturday and we are already well on our way to that goal. So spanish is getting better and honestly it is amazing how much I know. I can only talk about food, the weather and the gospel (what else is important anyway right?).

Our district is intresting. Much of them have graduated from High School earlier this year (which honestly is super weird when I think about it). Sometimes I think that they don't like me (mainly the Elders). I am trying to figure out how to get them to talk more to me. I really wish that they would. Hermanas- are awesome. All of the sisters in our district and zone are amazing. I am learning so much from them. Some of them remind me of what I was like before the MTC. I have kinda put on a little shell that is slowly cracking. Hermana Nibley is a girl about to leave to go to LA. She speaks beautiful spanish and is so nice. You never see her without a smile on her face. There are also two girls Hermana Loftus and Hermana Collins who just make me feel so comfortable. I am really excited to learn from their wonderful examples. Ohh I finally told some of my district about fruit flies (see the shell is cracking). They thought I was a little odd but you know what - I kinda am!

Today the temple is closed so we had a wonderful amount of time to do whatever. It was some of the most relaxing moments of my life. Next week the temple is closed also but we get to clean it! Ohh yay! I am so excited! I am about to get my hair cut so cross your fingers and hope it goes ok. Also I have eaten alot of candy and sweets today (christmas packages and all). Luckily I went to the work out class at 6:00 this morning :)

Christmas at the MTC is going to be amazing - I hope. One of the Elders in our district made the talent show with a magic show. Hopefully an apostle or maybe even the Prophet will come talk to us! We have a devotional on Friday night and then I think two talks on Saturday. I am so excited to see who comes. The devotionals have already been great! We also have time to email on Saturday (or that is the rumor). So send me an email :)

I have learned so much about the gospel the past two weeks. I have felt God's love for me and for so many others. It is so amazing to see why we are here. The answer is the same reason we have Christmas, Jesus Christ!

Another thing - When we get to walk to the temple it is so amazing. I feel like I never see the sky. I feel so free when I can just see the sky and feel the wind. I do miss Lubbock for its weather and also for the sunshine. I pray for sunshine alot. It has been cloudy all week. It snowed for like two days straight. It was beautiful but cold. I am so grateful to be here. I know that this is where I need to be and am glad that I have 9 weeks here (most of the time). I have seen Veronica! She got here last week and it is just so great to see someone I know.

Remember why we celebrate Christmas! Make it the best one you can because there will never be another December 25, 2010 again!

I love you all so much,

Hermana Spencer

P.S. There are so many stairs here and here is a modified quote fromt he best two years "From going up all the stairs my bottom has become quite beautiful".

Ohh and everyone has learned my secret - I am very uncordinated! BUT I survived this week without getting hit in the head :)

Yo se que Jesucristo es mi Salvador. Mediante su Expiacion podemos regresar vivir con Padre Celestial!

Life in the MTC

It was wonderful to hear from Hermana Spencer today! Sounds like she is enjoying life in the MTC!

Dear Family and Friends,

Happy Birthday Jeff and Madre! I hope they are wonderful!

I am so excited to write you. I have been waiting...patiently to write you! The MTC is so different than normal life. I basically am busy all the time and don't really have any time to think - but I love it at the same time. I can only write on P-day - TODAY! There is so much that has happened in the last week that I do not even know what to say. My first day was wonderful. My companions name is Hermana Thomas from Las Vegas. She is also going tot he Denver South Mission. Everyone in our district, besides us, are going to Salta Argentina. We have 3 sets of Elders and another companionship of Hermanas. We have two wonderful teachers. One is a native of Argentina. She is a returned missionary and speaks perfect espanol and english. As of Monday, she will no longer speak any English to us. So....I was scared, but so far I have done alright. Our other teacher is also a student her at the Y. He is really nice and funny. He served in Argentina.

So Spanish! I will not lie - it is very difficult. I have learned so much over the last week. The second day here we learned to pray, and since then all of our prayers have been in espanol. My english is already beginning to suffer :). On Sunday, RS was in English and I was so excited to hear a pray in English. My prayers are slowly becoming less repitious as my vocab grows. I am doing great with the grammer. On the other hand - my pronunciation is horrible! But I am reading out loud every day with my comanion from El Libro de Mormon and she is helping me. I am ever so slowly getting better. I am surprised at how much I understand. My companion and I have been able to help eachother so much already. Oh another thing - Sacrament meeting is terrifying. Our Branch President will randomly call on someone and have them give a talk in Espanol. AHHHH!!!! I have never been so nervous. I was so greatful when he didn't call my name.

I am the oldest and the shorest in my district. All of the other girls came out here right after they turned 21. I think I have met one person older than me :)

Right now I am doing laundry. I am so excited to get clean clothes. Just so you know we are extremely busy around here. I have loved getting your letters. Every day that I get a letter/Dear Elder is instantly better. I won't lie, I have struggeled the past week. Not in a tremendous way, but it is harder than I thought it would be. In a different way. Spanish is definately humbling me. I really want to understand it more. I can definately say that I am grateful for all the wonderful experiences I have had. I feel prepared to teach in English - now I just have to work on Spanish. Tomorrow we are teaching our first lesson. I am so excited to teach...and scared at the same time. We are teaching lesson 1 - the restoration. My testimony of the Restoration is increasing. On Monday our teacher, Hermana Purizani and another teacher, practiced teaching for us. When they shared the story of Joseph Smith - I felt it so powerfully. I loved it. Yesterday, Hermana Thomas and I had a wonderful companion study. We were reading PMG (ofcourse) and the spirit really did direct our study. I am so excited to become better. Another wonderful experience was last night. We sang Called to Serve as an MTC! IT WAS FANTASTIC! I loved it.

So my schedule. I wake up at 6:10ish. Eat at like 7:00. Sit in class most of the day - like 11 hours. We have two Spanish/doctrine classes and then we have personal study, companionship study, and missionary directed time ( which means we decided what to study and with who). We eat alot. I love the wraps and eat them everyday for lunch now. Some of the food is not so good. I really miss cooking - but will survive. We go back to our rooms at 9:30 and do whatever. At 10:15 its quiet time and then lights out at 10:30.

Ohh something that I didn't expect was that I don't feel like the normal "Allison." I feel like I am only part of myself. This is good and bad. Because I am in the MTC - I cannot serve people the same way I normally would and I am missing this terribly. I do feel like I am growing in a very good way and am learning to give up my burdens to the Lord. I know that without his help there is no way I will learn spanish. I know that I have to be obedient. In our zone we have a goal to be exactly obedient. This is difficult, because we have some silly rules. But I am getting over that.

I seriously love you all so much. And I love the people who have written me so much. I love that I have been getting so many letters! My district is sometimes jealous. Can someone send me the weather. It snowed today and it was just lovely. We got to go to the teimple and it was so wonderful. I was so tired though and had to fight to stay wake.

My companion and I are so different. I definately can see that the Lord is helping us work together.

I am so exctied about everything. The Lord totally loves us. I know that the gospel is true for so many reasons, but mostly because I feel God's love for me daily. He is really sustaining me!

Funny story - The second day - I was playing volleyball and I got hit in the face! Isn't that just like me! My companion is laughing as I read this.

We live with two Herman's in our district - Hermana Cocina (Kitchen) and Jorgensen! I love them so much already!

I have no more time! I love you guys so much! PLEASE WRITE ME!

Love you all!

Hermana Spencer

Hermana Spencer's address

Hi all,

This is Samantha, hermana de Hermana Spencer. I will be the one that is upkeeping her blog. If you leave a comment, I will forward it on to her! :) I am also going to be posting her emails.

Her address is:

Sister Allison Kristine Spencer
MTC Mailbox #235
CO-DENS 0209
2005 N 900 E
Provo UT 84604-1793


Allison will be in the MTC until early Feburary. You can write her for free by going here!
She would absolutely love to hear from you...yes you! So please feel free to write her!

Rooting for Modine

I wrote a large part of this post a month ago.

This past week has changed my life.

I have felt so wonderful. I have seen why having a Savior is so important.

I've had a week of serving and of being served.

I have really been striving to find people to serve. Most have been small ways. The times when you have a small prompting - and you have to decide are you going to do it, or not. So many of those small things have helped me this week. I have truly had joy this week.
I have also been served this week. So many of my wonderful friends have helped me. Not having a car is a wonderful time to be served. I have appreciated everyone helping me - taking me to the store, work, or even just dropping me off at home.

Do you ever just look at the wonderful people that surround you? I have seen so many wonderful people this week. A lot of them I have recognized as wonderful, but this week I really had a different pair of glasses on. I was able to see people more like the Lord sees them. I wish I could say this is how it always is - but that would not be true.

For example, George. I really love this guy. He has shown me the gospel is for everyone. It really is. He has changed our ward, most certainly for the better. On Friday, I was able to dance with him the last dance. He loves tennis so much - but he always puts a smile on my face. He has been such a wonderful missionary. He loves giving out Book of Mormons or even just talking about the church. Many people who have been members their whole life are not as good as he is.

Also, Kimberly. She is so beautiful and extremely sweet. She is just so classy. I always feel that she is so genuine when I speak to her. Not to mention how wonderful her food looks!

Hannah, I really gained my testimony of visiting teaching from her. I was the one who was supposed to be helping her out when I visited...instead I always found my self up-lifted.

Katelynn - I have been friends with you longer than anyone else. You have helped me see so much. Not only have you helped me graduate from college, you have helped me feel God's love for you and for me. I will always think of so many things - Monty Python, Avril's song "Girlfriend", Quade, skipping all semester of Microbiology, and most importantly Reesesssss Peanut Butter Cups! I love you!

Kip - Even with his crazy grin, he always is there to listen. I have known Kip for a long time. There have been times when we weren't great friends. Oh how I love that we are now. He is seriously one of the nicest people.

Isaac (aka "The Mexican Cowboy") - most people do not even know who Isaac is in our ward. He brings something so different. I love hearing his stories of "blah, blah, blah" and "you know what I'm saying." Anytime I see him, I just want to smile. Seriously H-i-l-a-r-i-o-u-s!

Meekayla! I have had some amazing experiences with her. I see the way the gospel has changed her and realize how it can change others. From knowing her,  I see how wonderful it is to scare Cathy with a dog. . . and also great conversations can be had in the Subway parking lot. I trust her.

Kayla, how I miss you. She is in Idaho. Which = not close to Texas! She is one of the most sincere lovely people I have EVER known.  Boys, seriously why have you not married her yet. She has helped me know that I can go on a mission. She has been such a wonderful example to me.

Jenny Jo - I always know I have a dirt expert one phone call away - and also a friend! I really hope that one day we can live close again and chat like we used to. I will always remember how you got me dates :) You are a wonderful example of so many things.

Evonne - If people do not know you - they are seriously missing out. You have always served in such a wonderful way. You truly have a gift for seeing what others need - and then you act on it. I will miss you eating popcorn, cheese and Dr. Pepper. :)

Chris - Where ever I go, no matter who I talk to, they always have great things to say about this guy. He never ceases to be a great example and to impress me. People are never numbers to him. He however consistently makes fun of the way I speak and likes to tease me. Que Te Vaya Bien!

Melanie - Can I just simply say that I love you! I am so glad that I got to live with you! I have never met someone with such a wonderful personality. I am so entertained by our friendship - because seriously who else would be Captain von Trapp and dance with me!?!

Kellyanne - Seriously an amazing scriptorian. I am always amazed at her ideas to improve her own scripture study - I may have stolen some Mwahahaha. She is always so kind and loving.

Cathy - She has helped shape me into what I now am, Pal. I love it when Cathy laughs. She is a serious force for good. I love her decorations and she has helped me grow to love enrichment/relief society activities.

The Curtises (I hate making plurals from words that end in s's) - have blessed my life so greatly. They have allowed me to live in their house, use their washer and dryer and also keep me entertained late at night. I am amazed at their wonderful example. I love their quirks. I see that the gospel is a part of them and not just something that they do.

Katie HoHorton - Seriously - she is awesome. I love her smile. When I was getting ready to go to the temple, I was so excited to have her their. I really feel like we feel the same way about the temple. I also love that she is grumpy in the morning :)

Garrett. I have learned so much from this crazy - fun - loving person. From him, I have really learned that having a good time at an event, really depends on yourself. You can be fun, which helps others have fun. I love when we tag team getting to know people. Having a buddy to help fellowship is really the way. He is also not stupid, mostly because he is marrying Sallie.

Sallie - the same one marrying Garrett, is so full of energy. She does it all. I really feel like we can talk about everything.  I know that one day she will help me learn to dance less like an uncoordinated white girl :)

Alice - I have always loved talking to you. You are such a wonderful example of enduring to the end. I am always so impressed about how you smile, even when life is hard. You have always encouraged me. The Lord truly knew what he was doing when he let me have you as a friend!

Danielle - I know I have only known you for a short time - but I am already impressed. You hold your yourself to a high standard. I want to be more like you. I love your cute laugh and your smile. I look forward to getting back and you showing me some good cowboy moves on the dance floor!

Anna B - I love her so much! I always love her great Relief Society lessons and how she always seems to think that since I know science and can cook - I know the anwer to all of life's questions!

Sarah - Never have I met anyone who has more Texas Pride. She has blessed my life. She has shown me how to really laugh. I know the gospel has changed her by the way she talks. Remember the only time you can cry during a card game is when Sarah is mad at you :)

Anna/Anna - I love you. I miss working with you. I will always miss you trying to compete at any of the tinest things. And just for the record - just because I'm Mormon does not mean that I am automatically good at everything!

Ashish - I am going to miss us running around hiding from you know who lol. I will miss your laugh and when you "try" to teast me hahahaha. The lab experience was so much better because of you.

Stephen - Thank you for always making me laugh! I am going to miss hearing your crazy stories and you using the word "gentiles." I'm glad we got over those akward moments.

Sam Sarlls - I love you. Because of you I now say something and want to then sing a song that is directly related to it. You have helped me love who I am more. You are awesome. I will miss hearing you sing.

Mitchell - You are awesome and amazing! I had so much fun with you at Halloween this year! I love your photography - keep it up!

Kyle - Thank you for always being so nice to me! You sersioulsy are great. I will certainly miss getting those skinny hugs from you!

Phil - Need I say more? I am still waiting for you to seranade me! You are so fantastic. There is no way that people cannot smile when you smile at them. I will miss giving you hugs - you always smell great!

I have almost run out of brain power....there are so many countless others that have helped me see the Savior.

This weekend was Stake Conference. I have felt so amazed by our Stake Presidency.

One story was of a girl named Modine. She was not the most attractice, intelligent girl. The kids made fun of her until a wise teacher prayed about what to do. He was inspired to give the kids in the class an assignment. He asked them to help her with her studies. The students then began to "root for Modine." They wanted her to succeed just as much as they wanted themselves to succeed. They began to love her. They all "fought" for time with her. After a short while that is what unified them.Not long after this miraculous change, Modine died in a plane accident. They were devestated, because they truly loved her.

When we act on promptings from the Spirit - we can bless others. We can change their life.Lets have charity instead of criticism.  So let's "Root for Modine" by rooting for our fellowmen.

Happy Thanksgiving

What a wonderful day to give thanks!

Yesterday I loaded up all of my stuff and moved to Hobbs. I was worried about being homeless - how could I ever think I would be homeless?

I got here and saw my little and not so little nephews. Kaleb greeted me by biting my shoe with my foot in it. Aaron and I went over spelling bee words - smart kid.

My mom and I went to lunch and it was simply amazing.

I even took a nap!

We made pies.
I think I will always remember times with my mom like this. I was cutting up apples and she was cooking. We chat. It truly is the little things that count.

This morning, like most Thanksgivings, my mom wakes me up and I start the turkey. (Ohh and it smells yummy!) We start preparing for the day.

This Thanksgiving is so different from so many others. This is the first time all of my siblings are not together on Thanksgiving. My mom and I were talking about the things we miss. Samantha would be sleeping and I would try to wake her up to make the rolls because I had already mixed two batches. Zac would be playing X-box and sneaking little bites of food (we all do that). I miss hearing my two older brother's laughter. Josh has my favorite laugh in the whole entire world. And when mixed with Jakes, there is no way that I will not smile. Kim is always so funny. Every year she makes the green bean cassorole. Every year Samantha teases her about the one time she made the mashed potatoes and put too much pepper in them. We spend all morning on our great feasts - which usually only takes twenty minutes until we are all stuffed....then we still return for seconds. The little kids always ask for more soda....and they usually get it.

More than anything I am going to miss all the love that I feel when I walk in and everyone is talking. There is something truly wonderful about families. Even when we disagree or fight - we always return with love in our hearts.  What other relationships are like that?

I can think of one or two. The love our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have with us. I am so grateful this day for the knowledge that I have of my Heavenly Home. I know that heaven is much like the way I feel when I come home.

Lately, I have been really worried about leaving. When I see an expiration date that is past the day I am leaving - I want to cry. How rediculous is that? I am working on an attitude adjustment. I should be excited to leave - because I get to serve. Not that I shouldn't be glad to leave, but that I should be glad to do the things that my Father in Heaven wants me to do!

O, How great is our God! I really do love Thanksgiving.
I am so blessed with a wonderful family, awesome friends and just a great life!

The Refiner's Fire

A wonderful perspective that I need to keep in mind.

Here then is a great truth. In the pain, the agony, and the heroic endeavors of life, we pass through a refiner’s fire, and the insignificant and the unimportant in our lives can melt away like dross and make our faith bright, intact, and strong. In this way the divine image can be mirrored from the soul. It is part of the purging toll exacted of some to become acquainted with God. In the agonies of life, we seem to listen better to the faint, godly whisperings of the Divine Shepherd.

Into every life there come the painful, despairing days of adversity and buffeting. There seems to be a full measure of anguish, sorrow, and often heartbreak for everyone, including those who earnestly seek to do right and be faithful. The thorns that prick, that stick in the flesh, that hurt, often change lives which seem robbed of significance and hope. This change comes about through a refining process which often seems cruel and hard. In this way the soul can become like soft clay in the hands of the Master in building lives of faith, usefulness, beauty, and strength. For some, the refiner’s fire causes a loss of belief and faith in God, but those with eternal perspective understand that such refining is part of the perfection process.

In our extremities, it is possible to become born again, born anew, renewed in heart and spirit. We no longer ride with the flow of the crowd, but instead we enjoy the promise of Isaiah to be renewed in our strength and “mount up with wings as eagles” (Isa. 40:31).

The proving of one’s faith goes before the witnessing, for Moroni testified, “Ye receive no witness until after the trial of your faith” (Ether 12:6). This trial of faith can become a priceless experience. Stated Peter, “That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ” (1 Pet. 1:7). Trials and adversity can be preparatory to becoming born anew.

A rebirth out of spiritual adversity causes us to become new creatures. From the book of Mosiah we learn that all mankind must be born again—born of God, changed, redeemed, and uplifted—to become the sons and daughters of God. (See Mosiah 27:24–27.)

The Divine Shepherd has a message of hope, strength, and deliverance for all. If there were no night, we would not appreciate the day, nor could we see the stars and the vastness of the heavens. We must partake of the bitter with the sweet. There is a divine purpose in the adversities we encounter every day. They prepare, they purge, they purify, and thus they bless.

Out of the refiner’s fire can come a glorious deliverance. It can be a noble and lasting rebirth. The price to become acquainted with God will have been paid. There can come a sacred peace. There will be a reawakening of dormant, inner resources. A comfortable cloak of righteousness will be drawn around us to protect us and to keep us warm spiritually. Self-pity will vanish as our blessings are counted.

-President Faust

Sadness, Joy and Sister Hugie

Today was a great day.

It started off with wonderful music. Adam burnt me a CD that is fantastic. It makes me smile.

Work was great. I really love the people that I work with. Seriously how did I get this Lucky?
Levi - He is so hilarious. Our office would not be nearly as funny. Always remember: "Never breast-feed while driving!"
Anna - I am going to miss her so much. She helps me be a better employee and a better person. I love her coca cola addiction lol :)
Jeannie - My boss. I know that she cares about us. That is something that is so great about her. I love it when we just sit around and laugh. Ohh and she always tries to get us to eat things!

I stopped by the institute. Plug for institute - one of the best places you can ever spend time in. It has been a  wonderful place for me for many years. The Curtises, Elders and Chris were there. There is nothing like walking into a place and feeling peace and a sense of belonging.

Tonight I got my first companion! The sisters needed someone to go on exchanges with them and I got to go with Sister Hugie! We went to a members house, who had a part member family over. We watched Finding Faith in Christ and talked about how we can increase faith. It was wonderful. Not only do I love that video, but I started to love the people as well. In the video, Christ says - "and be not faithless, but believing!"

LOVE IT!

Then some FHE! Some Chuck! Good day.

The sadness and joy come from thinking about leaving. It is so soon. I know that it will be great, but I am so nervous. A good cry is in order :)

Sunday Singing

First off, today was great.

I wore my awesome tights and my new missionary sweater!
I had meetings! I went and sawll Chief! His family is so amazing and wonderful.
As soon as I walked in he said, "We're eating. You want some? You are going to eat." So I ate.

I seriously love the Lubbock College Park Ward! Awesome.
My lesson went ok.
I had the opportunity to see lots of people from my family ward.
Our ward is simple amazing.
Sacrament is always great. Relief Society always helps me realize that there are so many wonderful women in our ward. I'm lucky!

I then went over to Melanie's house for a sing-along.
I have had a sore throat for like a week now, but it was so much fun.
We sang everything from Phantom to Lord of the Rings.
Justin, Stephen, Micah, Charlie, Kyle, Jessica, and Melanie were there!
It was so much fun.
The best song was Total Eclipse of the Heart. So FUNNY!

Teenage Dream

I really like this song - with his lyrics.





Thanks Kayla!

I pity the fool!

2Ne 10:23

Therefore, cheer up your hears, and remember that ye are free to act for yourselves -- to choose the way of everlasting death or the way of eternal life.

Can I say that I am pitying a little today. So most of these things will not matter tomorrow.

Today I feel like I have already left. I feel like people don't want to invest in me, because I am leaving. It seems this way to me. Which means that I am being stupid.

I pity the fool!
Makes me think of Kali Pearce!

So because of this I can not pity myself, I need to help others feel wanted, so I can feel wanted.

The pity party is over and now I have to get to work. I have no time for this.

Anyone know where I can find some good waterproof boots in Lubbock?

President Dalley

Dr. / President Dalley

This man changed my life. 

I first met him as a freshman attending the wonderful, amazing Lubbock Singles Branch. 

He was my branch president. 

I quickly came to admire and love him. 

I wish the picture could do him justice. I feel everyone is more beautiful in white :) He is now in the temple presidency. I love that I get to see him almost every time I go. The love that you feel when he looks at you is hard to explain. 

Since he works often with the Curtises, he sometimes knows what is going on with me. Last week, he asked me about my dating life - which is not uncommon. He had mentioned that he had heard I had been going on lots of dates. I said there was a brief burst of dates there. :)

Tonight he asked me some questions again. He asked if I was still going on lots of dates and I said I was not. He said I bet there are so many boys sitting back admiring you - I bet thats why you got a big burst of dates. He then proceeded to ask me about a boy that I used to date. I told him that boy was now engaged - he gave a very surprised look. He said that he thought that boy would one day come to his senses. I laughed and I said well I did. I told him someday.  

He is one of my heroes. 

He has advised me on so many of my life decisions. I am so grateful for getting to know amazing people like him and his wife, who is also truly amazing. 

I really do believe that someday I will get that "happily ever after." In the mean time I am very happy. The temple is such a wonderful place. I really can't wait (well I can, but am looking forward to it) until I'm old like the Curtises and get to spend my time there, with my husband. 

I am so glad that I am going on a mission because that meant that I could go to the temple. 

O, How great the goodness of our God!

Busy Day

I am so exhausted.

Tired. Sleepy. Run down. Fatigued. Drowsy.

Today has been a very good day.

I guess most good days start off with the night before them.

Katie, Cathy and Dawn kidnapped me literally. They are so fantastic. I love them. They literally barged into my room and told me that I was leaving. They took me to Cathy's for a girl's night! We discussed a lot of things and had a lot of laughs.

This morning we woke up and volunteered at the Food Bank! I love going there. We basically put boxes together, but there is something wonderful about taking time from your day and using it to help others!

Then I was fortunate enough to go to the temple! I got to do sealings for the first time! The temple is beautifully simple!

Choir practice - I will eventually get the C to F down! We need more altos - I am the only one!

Eat :)

Babysit! I got to babysit my nephew Kaleb! He is so wonderful!

Just so you know...he is not my baby!

I really do love this kid. His smile is so wonderful! I really am going to miss him!

Happy Sabbath!

"I just want to be unhappy"

You know those times you really want something....
Like .... want something a lot, a lot?

And sometimes during those sometimes......
the answer is no....

But you still want it....

I am so glad that Heavenly Father has given us the Spirit to help guide us to the answers we need, and sometimes the ones we do not want.

We have those times when we might want to say "I just want to be unhappy!" But, we know He has a plan and it will bring us happiness.

So what do we do in the mean time....between the "no" answer and the peace that eventually comes when we aline our will with the Father's?

We ask for peace and help. Thats really what we have to do.
And we go to His house.

"Present Allison has no patience!"
Sallie, "Tell Present Allison to shove it."

Sunshine...

....Sunshine is something that I love.
Sometimes I wish I could lay in the grass and close my eyes and feel the hot sun.....


My life has been noteworthy good!

I have a wonderful family!

I have wonderful friends.

I am very blessed.

Today, I had a good experience at work. Anna and I were at this large career fair for high school students. We were next to several Texas Tech booths. Towards the end of the event, Jennifer ( the lady next to us), started to talk to us. Some how it came up that I would be leaving and she asked where I would be going and why. So I told her about my mission. She then proceeded to ask "can I ask you some questions?" - OF COURSE (I didn't say it that excited, but I was this excited). She asked me if Mormons hated black people (this is what she heard when her and her family were thinking of moving to SLC). So I of course told her we do not. She then asked me some other things. Anna chimed in and said that she was not a member but loved the church. She said that there are a lot of misconceptions about the LDS people. After, the conversation with Jennifer, I invited her to come to church. It felt completely natural, simple. She said that she was not interested in coming to church, mainly because her husband would not agree. She was so glad that she asked me these questions. She said that she felt so glad knowing that LDS people did not feel/act that way.

This was a testimony builder to me that we need to speak up more. We are not weird. We are normal people that happen to believe in Jesus Christ and Prophets!

I really do love the gospel --> love, peace, truth, happiness and joy!
The gospel helps me feel sunshine.

This past weekend, I was able to go to the temple. It was an amazing experience. I felt so loved - from Heavenly Father, Family, and Friends.

I am so glad that I am surrounded by amazing people.

Flood of 2010

So Thursday..... Lubbock Flooded....I was supposed to be on my way to H-O-B-B-S, for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Little did I know....

Flood from last year - Walmart Parking Lot

I ended up like this....

but stuck....

I laughed....cried....laughed again....worried.....felt the waves of water coming close to the car

Luckily, I had one of these....

My Big Brother Josh

He came and rescued me from the ferocious H2O! He literally rescued me. I couldn't open my driver's side door. We had to push the car to safety. It was so cold. 

My engine is now being rebuilt! Fun times. 

The moral of the story is - go to institute....or move from Lubbock. 

Halloween

So I do not know what to do for Halloween at all....

I like to keep my costumes some what secretive, but I need some help. This costume has to be great because Halloween next year will be spent as Hermana Spencer!

Here are some ideas:

• Flo - the progressive girl
• Alien Host - have an alien coming out of my midsection lol.
• Prom Queen Reject - basically look ugly in a prom dress and have a sash that says reject...
• Kissing booth - not likely for me to do it
• Just got dumped - you wear slippers a bath robe and have lots of tissues from crying, messy hair and mascara running down your cheeks. You also have an empty Ben and Jerry's container and a picture of your "ex" torn up!
• Old school house wife

I really want it to be awesome or make me look cute....
Those are some online examples....
What should I be?

Fear not, I am with thee; O be not dismayed!

I need to remember these words more...

1. How firm a foundation ye saints of the Lord,
Is laid for your faith in his excellent word;
What more can he say than to you he hath said?
You, who unto Jesus, for refuge have fled.

2. In ev'ry condition - in sickness in health,
In poverty's vale, or abounding in wealth,
At home and abroad, on the land, on the sea,
As thy days may demand, so thy succor shall be.

3. “Fear not, I am with thee; O be not dismayed!
For I am thy God, and will still give thee aid;
I'll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand,
Upheld by my righteous, omnipotent hand.

4. “When through the deep waters I call thee to go,
The rivers of sorrow shall not thee o'erflow;
For I will be with thee, thy troubles to bless,
And sanctify to thee thy deepest distress.

5. “When through fiery trials thy pathway shall lie,
My grace all-sufficient shall be thy supply;
The flame shall not hurt thee; I only design,
Thy dross to consume, and thy gold to refine.

6. “E'en down to old age, all my people shall prove
My sov'reign eternal, unchangeable love;
And then, when grey hairs shall their temples adorn,
Like lambs they shall still in my bosom be borne.

7. “The soul that on Jesus hath leaned for repose,
I will not, I cannot, desert to his foes:
That soul, though all hell should endeavor to shake,
I'll never - no, never, no, never forsake!”

Now to make this weekend great...

Because life is great!

Facebook

So Its....late (meaning after 11:00)

For months I have wondered if I should post my blog on:

Where you find out what they were up to this weekend...
If someone is upset....
Giddy.....
Or most importantly engaged lol!

That scares me....
But, I want to eventually have tales from missionary me on here.

So here goes nothing.

Welcome new stalkers! I hope what I write about it at least worth a small fraction of your time!

Cheddar Potato Soup

Purpose: To make something that is fit for the human digestive system and satiates hunger.

Introduction: After carefully considering the desired food product for consumption, it was necessary to construct a balanced meal. One respected colleague, C. Curtis, and I observed a sound scientific idea in Relish Magazine. After reviewing the literature, there was found to be a lack of investigation into this subject. This led to modification of an experimental method (Allrecipies et al., 2005). 

Hypothesis: Potato soup may become tastier if cheese, ham and other fresh ingredients are added.

Materials and Methods: 

4 large Red Potatoes

3 large stalks of celery

1/2 medium onion

3 medium cloves of garlic

1 1/2 cups of black forest ham

Desired amount of cheese

4 Tbs. of butter

4 Tbs. flour

1 can of chicken broth

4 cups of milk

Chop up potatoes into cubes and cook in chicken broth covered until potatoes are soft.

Drain chicken broth and keep it in reserve. Add butter, flour and salt and pepper. Then add milk (more if desired), chopped celery, chopped ham, chopped onion, minced garlic, cheese and reserve chicken stock. Cook covered simmering for 20-30 minutes. 

Results: Soup consistency was more chowder like. Celery was slightly chruchy. Flavors smelled like one's grandmother's homemade soup on a wintery day. 

Discussion: Due to the amount of potatoes and other ingredients, the flavors combined quite nicely. The soup increased the "internal" temperature of mouth and soul by 5 oF. Flow of soup was smooth. Observations of the human digestive tract imply that this method utilized the optimal amount of space in the stomach cavity. This study suggests, cheddar potato soup needs to be consumed on a regular basis. 

Future Studies: Impact would have been greater had more cheese been involved. Human satisfaction could be increased if homemade biscuits were added to the experiment. 

10:10 10/10/10

Ok..so its like 10:40 now, but I just wanted to share somethings. 

At the real 10:10 10/10/10, my roommates, Bro. and Sis. Curtis, and I celebrated. 

• This consisted of turning on the dishwasher at the exact time.
  
• Checking the news stations to find out if anything special was going on.
  
• AND a half spirited Wahoo! 
  

But, it was fun and funny. I really am so glad that they are fantastic. We played Ticket to Ride tonight! I really do like that game. 

The Sabbath is always a wonderful day. It is really my favorite. I had some wonderful experiences today.

One - I got my temple recommend to go to the temple to get my endowments. 

I knew one day that this would happen, but it always seemed so far off and now its fast approaching. 

I was struck by one of the temple recommend questions, which I had heard several times. The second one asks if you have a testimony of the Atonement of Christ and His role as Savior and Redeemer. 

Redeem: 

To buy back, to free from what distresses or harms, to free from capitivity by payment of ransom, to extricate from or help to overcome something detrimental, to release from blame or debt, to free from the consequences of sin, to make good,to atone.

Savior:

one that saves from danger or destruction, one who brings salvation!

I just thought that was interesting that the question used two different roles of the savior :)

Also today I taught in Sunday School. I really was not

 prepared like I should have been, but the Spirit was there and the lesson was good. The lesson was on taking the name of Jesus Christ when we are baptized. 

In Relief Society, Amy B. ( a recent convert) gave a lesson on baptism. She was so great. I was so amazed by her lesson. She really showed what the gospel is about. I felt like her humble experiences helped so much in seeing the point. She said that when she learned certain things about the gospel that she thought "GENIUS!" I really loved what she had to say and really felt the point of the gospel. It is times like these that I really know that its true, that it matters!

There were differences in our lessons. We were speaking on the same topic, but I felt like Amy's lesson went straight to the heart. I really hope that I can better get to the heart, or better yet that I can invite the Spirit to get to the heart.

I have also been able to read some blogs about Spanish speaking Sis. Missionaries and am quite enjoying them. I really feel like life is about to get AMAZING!

Well its time for this Sweet Spirit's bed time :)

What I need for the Mission Part 1

What do you need to be a sister missionary?

4-5 Outfits

2-3 Jackets/Blazers

2 Shoes - Water Resistant

1 Water Resistant Boots

Tights

Gym Clothes

Winter Coat

Gloves

Scarves

Ear-band

Winter Hat

2 Sweaters

Pjs

Watch

Jewlery

I want to look like this everyday! And I really need a mustard yellow cardigan.

Here are some examples of the clothes that I want to buy:

Shirts and sweaters

So if anyone sees anything like this let me know!

Day off - not really.

So I haven't felt well this week, but today of all days - SATURDAY - I feel rotten. 

So I am in my Pj's lying on my bed and have been most of the day. 

So I updated my blog header:

Which is meant to be funny!

And then I made one for Sallie:

Now I am trying to decide what I can do while lying in bed. 

Being sick is really yucky. I feel like we need to be sick sometimes to feel gratitude for being healthy. 

I am now going to post about sister missionary clothes - because I have to start getting some things :)

The Book of Mormon

I love the Book of Mormon. 

I love the simplicity of the words.

I love the principles it teaches. 

I love how it teaches of Jesus Christ

I love how it shows God's love for His children.

I love how it shows the Plan of Happiness. 

I love how it changes my life. 

531 pages, 239 chapters, 60 days! 

Tonight I met with the Bishop and he challenged me to read the Book of Mormon again before I left for my mission. I am going to do it. I expect my life to be filled with more. I also know that my testimony will grow. 

"Without reservation I promise you that if each of you will observe this simple program, regardless of how many times you previously may have read the Book of Mormon, there will come into your lives and into your homes an added measure of the Spirit of the Lord, a strengthened resolution to walk in obedience to His commandments, and a stronger testimony of the living reality of the Son of God."

~Gordon B. Hinckley

I'm taking the challenge!

4 chapters a day!

Awesome talks about the Book of Mormon:

Safety for the Soul

A Testimony Vibrant and True

T-10 weeks

It has already been a great week! 

I only have less than 10 weeks until I go to Utah. It has been so weird thinking about a mission. I actually know where I am going. I am so excited. Every time some one says something about Denver - I listen closely :) It is odd that it is actually here. 

Anna and I practiced our spanish numbers this week. I really do love her and am so glad that Heavenly Father put her in my life to bless me. She is the Unit Coordinator at work and is just

 so kind. She has actually been investigating the church. 

Tonight I read my whole missionary packet. I am a little bummed on the fact that I can't wear shorts or jeans (my mission specifically), but I know 

that obedience no matter on what it is will bring blessings. It is so nice to be able to hold my call in my hands. It really is the thing that helps me realize its real. Some mornings I have woken up and thought that this is actually not happening. 

I am also getting ready to go to the temple. I am so excited. I have a lot of pondering and studying to do, but I do know that the Lord is here. 

On another note, this weekend is General Conference. If you are interested in wat

ching/ listening go here. 

I cannot wait to go with questions. I love hearing what the Lord wants the world to hear. 

Tonight in institute we talked about the prophets and why its important to have a prophet. I have been thinking about Light and Darkness. I feel that these two things are very real. Ever since I have put in my papers, it has been harder to hold on to the light. It "seems" like darkness is rolling in. In D&C 21:6, it says that if we follow the prophet, " the Lord God will disperse the powers of darkness from before you, and cause the heavens to shake for your

 good, and his name glory." That is awesome! So listen to conference and have darkness go away! 

Also Conference weekend is awesome for other reasons. I feel like it should be celebrated. 

Friday - Tomorrow

Hair cut

Make pie!

Sallie and Alice are coming into town. 

I have the day off - woot woot!

We are going to the Corn Maize

Saturday

I am sure we will eat something great in the morning.

Conference Session 1

Go out to eat - most likely Yamagatas!

Conference Session 2

Do something

Girls night while boys are going to priesthood

Sunday

Eat good food

Conference Session 3

Pot Luck

Conference Session 4

Fun!

I really do love conference for so many reasons. 

My Mission Call

So yesterday started off very differently than I thought the day I found out where my mission call would start...

I woke up in Junction, TX. I was on a work retreat. 

I knew my call was waiting for me. I held it in my hands on Friday, but I didn't open it. I wanted people I cared about to be there. So I waited...

I left Junction with a car load of students in the mini-van rental :) Drove all morning. I thought I would be back by 2:30 to open the call. Well we were back in town by 2:00. But, because of lots of things we were at the airport at 3:30. So Anna and Levi, my awesome coworkers dropped me off at my house. I had told everyone to go wait at Chief's house. So I met my mom and we drove to Chief's house :)

When I walked in everyone clapped and was excited. I was so nervous. My hands were shaking. 

I opened the envelope and found the packet. I thought that maybe they kept a copy of the call in the packet. So I start reading and realize, I am not reading the right part :) So I look at the packet and realize - I am going to COLORADO!

Then I find the letter and realize that I will be serving in the Denver Colorado South Mission - Spanish speaking! I am so excited. It feels so good to know. I will report to the MTC on December 8, 2010. 

So only a little over 2 months in Lubbock :(/:)

Last night, Chris Weed invited some of us over for Tacos. I had a nice time. I am really going to miss getting together with great friends and just eating and talking. Life is really good and it is going to continue to get better :)

-Hermana Spencer

Call is here!

Blessings

I should be packing, but don't want to forget this moment. 

Ever since I put in my mission papers...It has been VERY hard. 

Not in ways I expected. I feel like I don't smile very much and that I generally feel like I don't make a contribution. I know why I am feeling this way - its just hard to over come these feelings. I have been feeling very empty - like the light went out. 

Thats not me. 

I feel like I always have a reason to smile, even when life is miserable. I feel like there is always sunshine...even when the dark clouds are there. (Sorry for the cliché word choice). 

So I have been actively trying to alleviate this business. 

Tonight I got a blessing and you know what I feel like I can do it a little longer :) AND that I can help others - which I feel like I haven't been able to do as much lately. 

I am so very grateful for the priesthood and for worthy willing priesthood holders. I hope to be better friends with these gentlemen. Thats really what they are. 

I also feel more certain about going - in the sense that it will actually happen. 

Now back to packing :)

Becoming

I am so full of gratitude.

Today was a long, crying, good day. 

I woke up with the right attitude. I wanted to be better this morning. 

I read  "Finding Strength Through Obedience" by Pres. Monson. This talk was very inspiring. 

It tells the story of a man who was good. He did what he needed to do. 

Men of learning, men of experience sought out this humble, unlettered man of God and counted themselves fortunate if they could spend an hour with him. His appearance was ordinary; his English was halting and somewhat difficult to understand; his home was unpretentious. He didn’t own a car or a television. He wrote no books and preached no polished sermons and did none of the things to which the world usually pays attention. Yet the faithful beat a path to his door. Why? Because they wished to drink at his fountain of truth. They appreciated not so much what he said as what he did, not the substance of the sermons he preached but the strength of the life he led.

To know that a poor man consistently and cheerfully gave at least twice a tenth to the Lord gave one a clearer insight into the true meaning of tithing. To see him minister to the hungered and take in the stranger made one know that he did it as he would do to the Master. To pray with him and partake of his confidence of divine intercession was to experience a new medium of communication.

Well could it be said that he kept the first and great commandment and the second which is like unto it,that his bowels were full of charity toward all men, that virtue garnished his thoughts unceasingly and, consequently, his confidence waxed strong in the presence of God.

This man had the glow of goodness and the radiance of righteousness. His strength came from obedience.

The strength which we earnestly seek today to meet the challenges of a complex and changing world can be ours when, with fortitude and resolute courage, we stand and declare with Joshua, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

I want the Lord to be able to say the same for me. So...with this being my motivation I started off the day trying to make a difference. Life has been rough for me and must have been rough with others as well. I tried to smile more and talk to people with my whole heart. At times I have failed today...really bombed. But the Lord was aware of my efforts and everything so far has worked out well. 

I have heart someone unintentionally - and I feel really bad about it. I isn't as bad as it sounds, but I know that I could have handled it better. 

I know my life is not for me  - its to bless others. I have felt so many blessings today. I am so grateful! The Lord truly loves me. I hope one day I will be a person that others feel great around. That they will want to be better by knowing me and that in my presence they will feel love. I guess I'm saying "I'm trying to be like Jesus."